The Pembrokeshire Herald 04/04/2025

LEAkED mESSAgES

shocking culture at Parc

TEEN cOcAINE DEALER IN cOURT over handgun Plot • P3

Cllr Paul Miller

Teen cocaine dealer in court over handgun plot

A TEENAGER who dramatically crashed a Mercedes-Benz into a house on Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven, during a police pursuit in December 2024 has now admitted dealing cocaine and plotting to obtain a handgun.

Harrison Billing, 18, of Jury Lane, Haverfordwest, appeared at Swansea Crown Court alongside Danhiellen Raji, also 18, and two other co-defendants — Casey Gregory and John Phillips — to face a string of serious charges.

Billing and Raji admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine between January 14 and February 13 this year. They also pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess a handgun without a certificate.

All four defendants were additionally charged with possession of cocaine with intent to supply on February 12. Billing pleaded guilty. Raji, Gregory, and Phillips denied the charge, as well as an

alternative count of simple possession. Raji also admitted having a knife on the A477 in Pembrokeshire on the same day — a charge which Billing denied.

Phillips, aged 36, of Pen Puffin, Steynton, admitted possessing cannabis on February 12.

Billing made headlines in Milford Haven after crashing an expensive Mercedes-Benz into a residential property on Hamilton Terrace during a high-speed police pursuit late last year.

The following day, a large zombie knife was discovered on the road near the crash scene. It was later retrieved by officers.

The case was adjourned until Friday (Apr 4) for the Crown Prosecution Service to decide which pleas are acceptable and whether a trial will be required.

Billing and Raji were remanded in custody. Gregory, aged 28, of Cromwell Heights, Milford Haven, and Phillips were re-admitted to bail.

Pembroke woman sentenced for drug possession and assault on PC

ALISHA STOKES, 30, of Devon Drive, Pembroke, appeared before magistrates in Haverfordwest this week on a series of charges.

On Saturday, February 22, Stokes was found in possession of 2.4 grams of cannabis in Haverfordwest. She indicated a guilty plea on February 24 and was convicted the same day. The drugs were ordered to be forfeited and destroyed under Section 27 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. No separate penalty was imposed, with the guilty plea taken into account.

On the same day, she was also found in possession of 10.49 grams of cocaine. She again indicated a guilty plea and was convicted on February 24. She received a suspended sentence of 24 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months. Magistrates stated that the offence was so serious that only custody could be justified, but suspended the sentence due to a realistic prospect of rehabilitation. She was also placed under a non-residential drug rehabilitation order with regular

reviews and required to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity.

Stokes further pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker—PC 826 Boorman—by beating her during the same incident on February 22. She was sentenced to 16 weeks’ imprisonment, also suspended for 18 months, with the court taking into account the fact that the victim was a police officer. She was ordered to pay £50 compensation.

On Tuesday, March 18, she failed to surrender to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, having been released on bail. A charge relating to that incident was withdrawn, but in a subsequent court appearance on March 27, she admitted to the same offence and received no separate penalty.

On March 11, Stokes also stole lamb from Farmfoods in Pembroke Dock. She pleaded guilty and was given no separate penalty.

A placeholder offence was also listed for record-keeping purposes relating to her arrest on a warrant issued for failing to appear in court.

Vulnerable pensioner jailed for contacting ex-partner despite restraining order

AN EGLWYSWRW pensioner has been jailed after breaching a court restraining order the day he was released from prison.

Within hours of returning to his home on March 26 following his release from custody, Gerald Phillips, 74, once again attempted to contact his former girlfriend by phone. The order had been imposed by Swansea Crown Court following his conviction of harassing the female.

“The day he was released from prison, he tried to make contact with the complainant,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest

magistrates this week. “She’d blocked his number, but after using the 147 facility, she could see that the defendant’s number had come up.”

Ms Vaughan told magistrates that this is the second breach of the order committed by Gerald Phillips.

Meanwhile probation officer Julie Norman asked for an immediate custodial sentence to be imposed on Philips.

“He was released on March 26, and that was when the offence was committed,” she said. “I ask for an immediate custodial sentence, because of the risks he presents to

the community.”

But Phillips’ solicitor, Tom Lloyd, requested leniency from the magistrates given the defendant’s acute deafness and what Mr Lloyd described as his ‘significant vulnerabilities’.

“I’m concerned he may have other issues that have yet to be properly explored,” he said. “No direct contact was made to the complainant, there was no violence, and the breach wasn’t sustained.”

Mr Lloyd went on to say that Phillips is currently living an isolated existence at his home in Neuadd

Wen, Eglwyswrw, and has no family members who are able to support him.

“His parents have passed away, he has no siblings to assist with his care and he doesn’t have any children,” concluded Mr Lloyd. “He’s very lonely and the problems are compounded by the issues that he has.”

Phillips was sentenced to eight weeks in prison, half of which will be served in custody and the remainder spent on licence following his release. He will subsequently be supervised by the probation service for 12 months. He was ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Drunken ferry passenger assaulted wife

PASSENGERS on a Fishguardbound ferry were left shocked and distressed after witnessing a drunken man repeatedly assault his wife during the crossing, a court has heard.

The incidents took place aboard the Rosslare to Fishguard ferry on the evening of February 1, with the first assault occurring at around 9:30pm in the bar area.

“A male could be seen aggressively punching a female,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told magistrates sitting at Haverfordwest this week.

“It looked to them as if he really wanted to hurt her.”

Shortly afterwards, both passengers and ferry staff saw the man, identified as

30-year-old Michael Connors, once again lashing out at his wife.

“By now the female was crying and appeared to be very fearful of the male,” added Ms Vaughan. “She was intimidated by him. He then turned his aggression towards members of staff.”

The assaults were captured on CCTV cameras installed on the ferry.

Probation officer Julie Norman told the court that Connors had consumed between seven and eight pints of lager and up to five shots prior to the incident.

“He’s not used to drinking alcohol, and this was only the second time he’d drunk in his life,” she said. “He’s shown a great deal of remorse, but he can’t remember what happened that night, although he

realises the impact it’s had on his wife, the witnesses and the ferry staff.”

Connors, of County Offaly, Ireland, pleaded guilty to two charges of assaulting Brigid Connors by beating.

He was represented by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who told the court: “This was a oneoff incident, and he’s deeply disappointed in himself—particularly because he committed the offence against someone he was very fond of.”

Magistrates imposed an 18-month community order. As part of the sentence, Connors must complete 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

Man avoids jail despite possessing child abuse images

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has been spared immediate custody after police found almost 70 indecent images of children on his mobile phone — including one image of a child aged around three whose hands and ankles were bound.

Andrew Davies, aged 36, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday (Apr 1), having earlier pleaded guilty to three counts of possessing indecent photographs of children.

The court heard that officers from Dyfed-Powys Police executed a search warrant at Davies’ home on Brewery Street in November 2022. Davies was present at the property and handed over a mobile phone along with the PIN code to unlock it.

Upon examination of the device, officers discovered 67 illegal images. These included nine category A images — the most serious classification — 14 category B images, and 44 category C images. The images had been

downloaded and stored in a passwordprotected application.

Prosecuting, Sian Cutter said one of the images showed a child estimated to be three years old with their limbs restrained. She told the court that all of the material was accessible on the device and had been intentionally downloaded.

In mitigation, defence barrister Ryan Bowen said Davies was “under no illusion as to the seriousness of his offending”. He said the offences dated back to 2019, and that the matter had been hanging over Davies for several years.

Mr Bowen added: “He has no previous convictions and is of otherwise good character. He accepts responsibility for his actions and has shown insight and a willingness to address his behaviour. There is a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.”

Sentencing, Her Honour Judge Catherine Richards told Davies: “The possession and viewing of child sexual abuse images causes direct harm to real children. It is a very serious aggravating

factor that some of the images involve children as young as three.”

Davies was handed three prison terms of eight, four and two months, to run concurrently, making a total of eight months. The sentence was suspended for two years.

He must complete 200 hours of unpaid work and attend 25 rehabilitation activity days. He was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for 10 years.

Concern as just 3% of Dyfed-Powys arson cases result in charges

ONLY 3% of arson cases investigated by Dyfed-Powys Police in the past three years have led to charges, sparking serious concerns about the force’s ability to bring offenders to justice.

Data obtained by Legal Expert shows that of the 558 arson offences recorded across the Dyfed-Powys area since 2021, just 18 resulted in someone being charged. Despite 56 arrests being made, the vast majority of cases were closed without prosecution, while many others remain unresolved.

LLANELLI WORST-HIT BY ARSON

The town of Llanelli recorded the highest number of arson incidents in the region, with 105 offences logged over three years. Ammanford followed with 69, Pembrokeshire South with 60, Brecknockshire with 57, and Montgomeryshire with 41.

Cardigan was the quietest area, with just 15 recorded arson cases.

LOW CHARGE RATES SEEN ACROSS UK

The figures from Dyfed-Powys mirror a wider national issue. A survey of 31 UK police forces found that fewer than 5% of arson investigations resulted in a charge. In Essex, only two people were charged despite more than 3,000 arson reports.

Home Office statistics published in January show that in the year to September 2024, only 4.4% of criminal damage and arson offences led to a charge or summons—up only slightly from 4.1% the previous year. Around 70% of arson investigations were closed

without identifying a suspect.

TEENAGERS AMONG SUSPECTS

Of the 56 arson suspects identified by Dyfed-Powys Police, 11 were under the age of 18. This included three 12-year-olds and four aged 13 or 14.

The most common age group was people in their 30s (16 suspects), with only nine in their 20s. Men accounted

for 73% of the suspects—slightly below the UK average of 80%.

Dyfed-Powys was also the only force in the country to report zero repeat arson offenders during the three-year period.

VICTIMS LEFT WITHOUT COMPENSATION

Alongside low prosecution rates, victims of arson are also struggling to receive compensation. Of 464 claims made to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), just 76

resulted in a payout.

In 2024, only 17 people across the UK received compensation for injuries sustained in arson attacks. Common reasons for claims being rejected included the offence not being classed as violent, or the injuries not meeting CICA’s compensation threshold.

The total payout to arson victims over the three years was £102,260, with an average payment of £1,345. So far in 2024, just £2,400 has been awarded, despite 79 claims being submitted. Nearly 200 victims are still waiting for a decision.

LEGAL ExPERT URGES VICTIMS TO SEEK HELP

Ellie Lamey, a criminal injury specialist at Legal Expert, said many victims may not realise they are entitled to compensation even if no one is convicted.

“It’s incredible that so few people have made a claim when thousands of arson offences have affected lives around the country,” she said. “Victims might be wondering how to get some form of justice.

“They don’t need to wait for a conviction to seek compensation. As long as they report the crime and cooperate with police, they may be eligible to apply.”

Legal Expert provides round-theclock advice on CICA claims and support for those affected by violent crime.

Police defend response—comments seen as downplaying scale of issue

Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Evans of Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Dyfed-Powys Police is committed to following up all crimes including arson-related offences together with our partner agencies.

“While the article matches our own data, it doesn’t include a breakdown of the level of risk to life, which gives a bit more context. In the past three years, nearly 85% of arson incidents reported did not pose a danger to life.

“We see more damage-related offences than actual attacks on people or property, and due to the nature of some of these incidents—such as bin fires, small grass fires and litter fires— they can be difficult to detect.

“Of the 15% which did pose a risk to life, a charge rate of 17% was achieved.

“When arson incidents occur, police investigate to identify and bring any offenders to justice. We encourage members of the public to report any offences to us via 101, through our website, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

However, some of the comments made by police have been seen as attempting to downplay the scale of the problem—particularly when the overwhelming majority of arson offences go unpunished, and victims are left without justice or compensation.

Men accounted for 73% of the suspects—slightly below the UK average of 80%

Park Church when it went up in flames in 2015 (Image: Gayle Marsh) Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Man remanded after thefts, vehicle interference and criminal damage

ROWAN CLARK, aged 24, of Devon Drive, Pembroke, has been remanded in custody following a string of offences in the town including multiple thefts, vehicle interference and damage to public property.

Clark appeared before magistrates in Haverfordwest on Thursday (Mar 27) where he admitted stealing alcohol worth £24 from Bush Hill Service Station on March 8, £27.20 worth of alcohol from Spar on both February 18 and March 18, £34.33 worth of groceries from Spar on February 11, and £21.57 worth of groceries from Bush Hill Service Station on the same date.

He also admitted to interfering with a motor vehicle—a blue Honda—on February 19 with the intent to steal it or items from it.

Additionally, Clark was convicted of criminal damage after smashing windows worth £602.78 belonging to Pembrokeshire County Council on September 16 last year.

Clark was also convicted of failing to attend an assessment for drug misuse on February 8, after testing positive for cocaine.

He has been remanded in custody while reports are prepared and will next appear in court on Tuesday, April 15, via live video link.

Pembroke Dock man remanded over solicitor’s office damage

ROWAN CLARK, aged 24, of no fixed abode in Pembroke Dock, appeared before magistrates this week accused of criminal damage at a legal office in Pembroke.

The court heard that on Saturday, April 27, 2024, Clark allegedly caused £62 worth of damage to property belonging to Greathead and Whitelock

Solicitors, located on Hamilton Terrace. Clark has pleaded not guilty to the offence and has been remanded in custody ahead of further hearings. He is due to appear again at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, April 15, via live video link for a case mention, with sentencing scheduled for April 22 if convicted.

Court gives daughter protection from man who attacked her mum

A COURT granted a restraining order to a woman, despite her not being the victim of the original crime.

The request for the order was made to Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday when James Britton appeared via a video link from Cardiff Prison.

Last month Britton, of Coronation Avenue, Haverfordwest, was convicted of assaulting a 72-year-old cancer victim. Following the hearing, he was sentenced to 52 weeks in custody.

This week the victim’s daughter, urged magistrates to impose a restraining order preventing him from having any contact with her following his release.

“I saw this horrific attack on my dad after he forced his way into my house, and I’d be really thankful if I could get some protection,” she said in an email submitted to the Crown Prosecution. “He’s put us through hell for long enough.

“We’re not together and haven’t been since 2023, and I just want to keep my little family safe.

“But what we have now is nothing but harassment, blackmail and

intimidation. At the moment we’re just existing, waiting for him to do something again. It’s not fair that we have to live like this.”

But solicitor Tom Lloyd stressed that Britton, of Coronation Avenue, Haverfordwest, is the father of the woman’s child.

“He has every legal entitlement to see his child and what she says is untrue,” he said.

“He hasn’t blackmailed her in any way and as the child’s father, he has parental rights.”

After considering the facts, magistrates granted Ms Parsley’s request.

“We believe it’s necessary and proportionate,” commented the presiding magistrate.

The order will prevent Britton from contacting Cara Parsley directly or indirectly and from entering Winch Crescent, Haverfordwest.

The order will continue for two years.

“I think you’ve made the wrong decision,” commented James Britton on hearing the magistrates’ decision. “But I accept it.”

Royal visit celebrates Pembrokeshire charity’s community impact

STAFF, volunteers and visiting pupils at Lower Treginnis Farm were delighted to welcome a very special guest on Wednesday (April 2), as Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited the site in support of the charity Farms for City Children.

The Princess Royal, who has served as Patron of the charity since 1991, spent the afternoon touring the farm, which lies just outside St Davids and is the most westerly farm in Wales. It was her fourth visit to the site since first attending in 2010.

Farms for City Children was founded by author and former Children’s Laureate Sir Michael Morpurgo and Lady Clare Morpurgo. The charity provides immersive week-long farming experiences for urban children, helping them connect with nature, food production and rural life.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

During the visit, The Princess Royal met children from Pembroke Dock Community School as they took part in hands-on farm activities including grooming donkeys, feeding rare-breed piglets, and planting vegetables in the market garden.

She also joined the children for a coastal workshop led by Câr y Môr, Wales’ first regenerative seaweed and shellfish farm, which operates just off the nearby shoreline.

Her Royal Highness was accompanied on her tour by Gethin Jones, Farm School Manager, and later met members of The Friends of Treginnis—a local fundraising group that has supported the

Man denies cocaine drug-driving charge

A PEMBROKE man has pleaded not guilty to drug-driving following an incident last summer.

Sean Agnew, aged 58, of Vetch Close, appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 3) for a further case management hearing.

He is accused of driving a Nissan Qashqai on Hywel Way, Pembroke, on August 1, 2024, while unfit through drugs. It is alleged that a blood test showed a level of Benzoylecgonine — a breakdown product of cocaine — at more than 92 micrograms per litre of blood, exceeding the specified legal limit.

The charge is brought under Section 5A(1)(a) and (2) of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Agnew entered a not guilty plea on February 4 and has been released on unconditional bail.

He is due to appear again at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 10) at 10:00am for a further case management hearing before District Judge J Layton. The case is expected to last 20 minutes.

Ella Passey appeared for the prosecution on behalf of CPS Wales (South West).

charity since 1991. Over the past three years, the group has raised more than £30,000 to help schools from across Pembrokeshire, including Pembroke Dock Community School, take part in the farm’s week-long programmes.

Before departing, The Princess Royal was introduced to members of the charity’s staff and to Aled Davies, the farm’s local partner farmer. She was then presented with a gift of fresh farm produce by two pupils, Erin Hubbard and Jack Kinnard.

Tim Rose, Head of Operations for

Farms for City Children, said: “We were delighted to welcome The Princess Royal to Lower Treginnis and to share the experience of being ‘farmers for a week’ with her. Her visit was greatly enjoyed by everyone at the farm and it was our pleasure to be able to show her how the work of the charity interacts with so many different aspects of the Pembrokeshire community.

“We are hugely appreciative of Her Royal Highness’s continued support and enthusiasm for the work that we do.”

Pub worker gets suspended sentence for failing to do unpaid work

A MILFORD HAVEN pub employee has appeared before magistrates charged with failing to carry out unpaid work as part of his suspended prison sentence.

Bruce Nankeris, 29, was sentenced to 24 weeks in custody suspended for 12 months last September by Llanelli magistrates, on condition that he carries out a total of 50 hours of unpaid work and 15 rehabilitation activity requirements.

But this week he was brought before magistrates after failing to turn up for two of the unpaid work appointments.

“He’s just not doing it,” said Probation Officer Julie Norman.

“Fifty hours isn’t a huge amount and he could fully do that within a few weeks, if he’s motivated.”

But Nankeris’ solicitor, Mike Kelleher, said the defendant has recently begun

full time employment at The Vibe in Milford Haven.

“Things have been difficult for him after moving to Milford Haven from Llanelli, and for a while was unable to find accommodation,” said Mr Kelleher.

“But he’s now found a job that comes with accommodation, and obviously he wants to keep this job because he’s been unemployed for so long.

His employer has confirmed that he will ensure that from now on, he’ll do all the hours of unpaid work that are required.”

Nankeris was fined £40 and ordered to pay £60 court costs.

He was also ordered to comply with the suspended sentence order by continuing the unpaid work and the rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Chef banned after being caught driving after smoking cannabis

A PEMBROKESHIRE chef has been ordered off the roads after being caught driving home from work after consuming cannabis.

A drugs wipe was carried out on Daniel Coles just after midnight on December 10 after police officers observed him driving his Vauxhall from his workplace in Narberth to his home in

Garden Meadows Park, Tenby.

“There was a small of cannabis emanating from the vehicle,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

When the drugs wipe proved positive, Coles, 25, was conveyed to the police station where further blood tests were carried out. These confirmed

that Coles had 11 mcg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system. The legal limit is 2.

After pleading guilty to the drug-driving offence, he was legally represented by solicitor, Tom Lloyd who said that at the time of the offence, the defendant was employed as a chef in Narberth.

“He had no other way of getting home

that night, and so he decided to drive,” he said. “But his job is now in jeopardy as it’s going to be virtually impossible for him to work those anti-social hours without transport.”

Coles was disqualified from driving for 12 months. He was fined £246 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £98 court surcharge.

HRH The Princess Royal with pupils from Pembroke Dock Community School and Farm School Leader Jess Willcox (Pic: Supplied)

Morgan faces a major strategic choice

LAST summer, when Eluned Morgan assumed office, Jonathan Edwards writes that her approach to the role of First Minister must have seemed quite straightforward. Ride the honeymoon wave of her ascent to the most important job in Welsh politics and a stunning General Election victory by her party at the Westminster level. Furthermore, the consensus was that the economic picture would begin to improve, which would normally result in a happier electorate.

The First Minister could look forward to 2026 with an element of confidence.

Move forward a few months, and matters don’t look so rosy with the Labour Party at the UK level in crisis mode as the economic picture darkens and the Chancellor reverts to a Tory austerity-like philosophy.

The First Minister finds herself in an unenviable situation. She is undoubtedly a loyal servant of the Labour Party and views politics very much through the lens of her party. Yet she surely knows that some of the policies being implemented at the UK level aren’t particularly favourable to Wales.

Witness the row this week over welfare policy where the First Minister looks somewhat stuck in the middle and not sure whether to support

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

the line of the UK Government or voice opposition. Furthermore, most commentators believe that matters for the Labour Party at the UK level will get even worse over the next year.

Working on the evidence of recent polls, whilst recognising that a new poll is imminent, it is clear Labour is losing support to more than one challenger and from both political flanks. Labour strategists should be thinking about how to stop the haemorrhage.

A year from now, the starting gun will be loaded, ready to launch the next Senedd elections.

The year ahead is going to be frantic and will pass in the blink of an eye for those involved in the looming contest.

The First Minister is going to have to make one key decision very quickly, and it is going to determine her political legacy.

In a game of political pontoon, does she stick to her instincts of loyalty to the wider Labour Party, making the case for the chosen course of the UK Government? Or does she twist and dust off the clear red water strategy deployed successfully by Rhodri Morgan in the 2003 election? Whatever course of action she

chooses will have consequences and will split the wider Labour Party in Wales, but it seems to me that it is a strategic path that can no longer be fudged with a difficult election on the horizon.

I have written in the past that the First Minister has some cards to play with the Prime Minister as a cataclysmic result for Labour in Wales next year would set contagion panic throughout the wider Labour Party.

If I were advising her, I would politely inform 10 Downing Street that unless certain demands are met, then the Welsh campaign next year will have

to distance itself from the mothership. A Theresa May DUP style £1bn bung would do and give the Labour Party a narrative to sell to the people of Wales over the next thirteen months.

If there are no changes to the polls, the First Minister has the unenviable choice of deciding between two options, which are very high risk in different ways. Mark Drakeford, the brains behind the clear red water strategy, sits in her cabinet as Finance Minister.

If I were Eluned Morgan, I would ask Mr Drakeford to write a revised strategy – Clear Red Water 2.0.

Fire crews from five stations tackle attic blaze

FIREFIGHTERS were called to a house fire in the early hours of Wednesday (Apr 2) after a blaze broke out in the attic of a three-storey home in north Pembrokeshire.

Crews from Cardigan, Crymych, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn and Haverfordwest fire stations attended the incident in Bridell, near Cilgerran, following a 999 call at 6:03am.

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fire had taken hold in the roof and attic space.

Crews used three hose reel jets, three 70-metre hoses, a turntable ladder appliance, a short-extension ladder, six sets of breathing apparatus and various small gear to bring the fire under control.

All occupants of the property were accounted for and no injuries were reported.

An inspection of the property revealed significant damage to the attic and roof structure.

Firefighters left the scene at 12:47pm.

Eluned’s choice: Clear red water or singing the ship

Council rules out ‘toxic tourism tax’ – for now

VISITORS to Pembrokeshire will not face a new overnight tourism tax—at least not during the current county council administration.

As the Welsh Government’s controversial Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) (Wales) Bill passed its first stage in the Senedd this week, Pembrokeshire County Council has moved quickly to reassure local businesses that it has no plans to introduce the charge locally.

In a statement issued on Tuesday (Apr 1), Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change, said:

“We acknowledge it’s important to recognise there’s balance to be struck between supporting the industry and dealing with some of the challenges associated with peaks in season. Therefore, I’m confirming it’s not our intention to take forward the option of a visitor levy in Pembrokeshire during this administration.”

His comments will come as a relief to the county’s hospitality sector, which has expressed growing concern about the impact of a new per-night charge on tourists. Under the Welsh Government’s plans, local councils would be able to impose a charge of at least £1.25 per person, per night for hotel stays, or 75p for campsites and hostels.

Although the charge would be optional, businesses feared that pressure to raise local revenue could lead to its adoption across Wales— deterring visitors and adding to the already high cost of domestic holidays.

Council backs tourism, acknowledges challenges

Cllr Miller stressed the importance of the sector to the local economy, saying:

“We provide a fantastic tourism offer here in Pembrokeshire and it is an important part of the county’s economy.

“In addition to jobs, this administration’s approach is also about the year-round facilities and attractions that benefit local people too. We recognise the tourism landscape has experienced significant change, be that second homes legislation, tax changes and we’re aiming to provide some certainty to the industry.”

He added that like many in the sector, he was “looking forward to a great summer season” in Pembrokeshire.

‘TOxIC TAx’ UNDER FIRE IN

SENEDD

The announcement from County Hall came as the Welsh Conservatives renewed their calls to scrap the proposed legislation, branding it a “toxic

Sam Rowlands MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance, said the levy would “hit the poorest families the hardest” and was being introduced at a time when energy, water, and council tax bills were already rising.

Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar MS accused the Labour-run Welsh Government of “hiding from scrutiny” and said: “Welsh Labour has chosen to add to rising costs for families by creating a toxic tourism tax on domestic holidays. Welsh Conservatives are clear: to fix Wales, we must axe the tax.”

The Bill will now progress to further scrutiny stages in the Senedd, with more votes due later this year.

While councils like Pembrokeshire will retain the power to decide whether to adopt the levy or not, the legislation could still reshape how tourism is funded and managed across Wales in the years to come.

Responding to Pembrokeshire County Council’s decision not to implement a Visitor Levy, local Senedd Member Paul Davies said:

“Pembrokeshire County Council has made the right decision not to take forward a visitor levy. The sector has had a bruising few years and the cumulative impact of several policies and changes has heaped pressure on tourism businesses across the county.

“Tourism is a huge part of the Pembrokeshire economy. Many local people work in the industry or know someone who does. Protecting the sustainability of the sector for years to come is key and I believe operators across Pembrokeshire will breathe a sigh of relief at the Council’s decision not to implement this levy. “

“Nevertheless, this doesn’t stop future Councils implementing this damaging policy. I will continue to oppose the Visitor Levy at the Senedd and stand up for tourism businesses across Pembrokeshire.”

tourism tax”.

Promise: Cllr Paul Miller (Image PCC)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Proposed Pembrokeshire village ‘traveller site’ sparks 300-strong petition

NATIONAL PARK planners are expected to back a call to visit a proposed new ‘traveller site’ on the outskirts of a Pembrokeshire village, which has seen a petition of nearly 300 objections, before making any formal decision.

Nearly 300 people have signed a petition against the creation of one traveller site incorporating one static caravan, one touring caravan, day/utility room and ecological enhancements (partly retrospective) on land at Froghall

Yard, Moreton Lane, Saundersfoot.

The objection to the site is also being shared by the village’s community council.

Around 50 people attended a recent meeting of the community council when members voted unanimously to object to the application.

The application is made by Dai Evans of Pontypool, through agents Hayston

Developments & Planning Ltd.

Saundersfoot Community Council is recommending that the plans are turned down.

Members have pointed out that the site is agricultural land, with no caravan or other use in over 30 years.

They added: “This previously unspoilt location is an important part of the landscape setting of the village.”

There was also concern that the site –where two previous planning applications had been rejected – is overlooked from Incline Way above and cannot be screened,

Councillors were ‘frustrated’ that extensive clearance work had already taken place on site, with multiple mature trees removed and apparently disturbing a badger habitat.

They continued: “‘Permission here would be gross overdevelopment setting a precedent for development literally anywhere throughout the National Park, including the additional land owned by the applicant adjacent to the application site.”

The community council’s objection finishes: “The applicant lives in Pontypool and claims no connection to the area. There is no rationale as to why the applicant chose a site approximately 100 miles away from their home.”

A supporting statement accompanying the application states: “The applicant belongs to a long-standing Romany Gypsy family and generations have lived a traditional and cultural lifestyle living in caravans all their lives.

“Mr Evans and his partner currently reside on an overcrowded Traveller site in Pontypool where living conditions are poor. They currently only live in rented accommodation and its brick and mortar and not in keeping with their cultural preference, as they prefer to live in a caravan.”

It says Mr Evans and family have stayed in a touring caravan at the site during the summer months since the late 1980s when it was owned by another gypsy family, later purchased by Mr Evans in 2023, clearing and refurbishing the site.

“The application’s aspirations are to continue his Gypsy culture and traditions residing in a caravan on site.”

At the April 9 meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s development management committee, members are recommended to agree to a site visit ahead of any formal decision on the scheme, on the grounds of public interest.

If a site visit is agreed, the application will be heard at a future national park meeting.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Whitland man admits shop theft and drunken disorder

DYLAN NEWTON, aged 26, of Colley Court, Monkton, Whitland, appeared before magistrates this week after admitting to theft and being drunk and disorderly.

On Tuesday, March 25, Newton stole a bottle of Jack Daniels, valued at £30, from Co-op Stores in Pembroke. He pleaded guilty and was convicted on Thursday (Mar 27). He was remanded on conditional bail ahead of sentencing.

The court heard that Newton must not enter Co-op Stores in Pembroke

and is required to co-operate with probation for the preparation of a pre-sentence report. He must return to court on Tuesday, April 22.

On the same day as the theft, Newton was also arrested on Angle Road, Monkton, where he was found drunk and acting in a disorderly manner in public. He pleaded guilty to that offence too and was similarly remanded on conditional bail.

Both matters are due to be sentenced at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court later this month.

Hakin man admits string of thefts

DANIEL FAIRLIE, 39, of Observatory Avenue, Hakin, Milford Haven, appeared before magistrates this week facing several charges including shoplifting and drug possession.

On Sunday, June 16, 2024, Fairlie stole items worth £6.20 from One Stop Stores in Milford Haven. He pleaded guilty and was convicted on Thursday (Mar 27). He was ordered to pay £6.20 in compensation.

On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, he returned to the same shop and stole two bottles of wine and a block of cheese. Again, he pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay £15 in compensation.

Fairlie was found in possession of 0.8 grams of cannabis on Friday, February 14, 2025, at The Mount Estate, Milford Haven. He indicated a guilty plea

and was convicted on March 27. The drugs were ordered to be forfeited and destroyed, and no separate penalty was imposed.

He was also charged with two bail offences for failing to attend Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Both of these charges were later withdrawn.

On Friday, November 22, 2024, Fairlie stole a charity box and its contents from The Castle Hotel in Haverfordwest. He pleaded guilty and was fined £200 and ordered to pay £30 in compensation.

Finally, on Friday, November 1, 2024, he again targeted One Stop Shop in Milford Haven, stealing goods worth £15. He admitted the offence and was ordered to pay compensation. No separate penalty was imposed.

Pembroke woman sentenced for drug possession and assault on PC

ALISHA STOKES, 30, of Devon Drive, Pembroke, appeared before magistrates in Haverfordwest this week on a series of charges.

On Saturday, February 22, Stokes was found in possession of 2.4 grams of cannabis in Haverfordwest. She indicated a guilty plea on February 24 and was convicted the same day. The drugs were ordered to be forfeited and destroyed under Section 27 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. No separate penalty was imposed, with the guilty plea taken into account.

On the same day, she was also found in possession of 10.49 grams of cocaine. She again indicated a guilty plea and was convicted on February 24. She received a suspended sentence of 24 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months. Magistrates stated that the offence was so serious that only custody could be justified, but suspended the sentence due to a realistic prospect of rehabilitation. She was also placed under a non-residential drug rehabilitation order with regular

Sentenced for shoplifting offences

LOUISE DAVIES, aged 49, of Laws Street, Pembroke Dock, appeared before magistrates this week and admitted to multiple thefts from shops in the town.

On December 17, 2024, Davies stole seven bottles of Famous Grouse whisky worth £164.50 from Tesco in Pembroke Dock. On the same day, she also took ten legs of lamb and a gammon joint worth £292.38. She indicated guilty pleas and was convicted on March 18. She was sentenced to a community order with 120 hours of unpaid work, exclusion from Aldi stores for 12 months, and ordered to pay full compensation

for both thefts.

Davies also admitted stealing items worth £63.95 from Aldi on July 2, 2024, and £61.96 from the same store on August 8, 2024. Both offences were dealt with on March 27. She received the same community order and unpaid work requirement, along with exclusion from all Aldi stores and further compensation payments.

Two further charges, where Davies was jointly accused with co-defendant John Ashby, were dismissed after no evidence was offered. These included alleged thefts from Aldi on July 4 and January 20.

reviews and required to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity.

Stokes further pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker—PC 826 Boorman—by beating her during the same incident on February 22. She was sentenced to 16 weeks’ imprisonment, also suspended for 18 months, with the court taking into account the fact that the victim was a police officer. She was ordered to pay £50 compensation.

On Tuesday, March 18, she failed to surrender to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, having been released on bail.

A charge relating to that incident was withdrawn, but in a subsequent court appearance on March 27, she admitted to the same offence and received no separate penalty.

On March 11, Stokes also stole lamb from Farmfoods in Pembroke Dock. She pleaded guilty and was given no separate penalty.

A placeholder offence was also listed for record-keeping purposes relating to her arrest on a warrant issued for failing to appear in court.

Leaked messages reveal shocking culture at HMP Parc

The facility houses many prisoners from Pembrokeshire, and is the largest jail in Wales

A SERIES of leaked messages obtained by The Herald have revealed a toxic culture among some staff at HMP Parc, with officers joking about violence, mocking self-harm, and admitting to skipping duties — as multiple investigations into serious misconduct continue at the privately-run Bridgend prison. The leaked text and social media messages, exchanged between officers and ex-colleagues, include disturbing references to physical assaults on inmates, deliberate provocation of prisoners, and a callous disregard for vulnerable individuals.

In one message, an officer boasts: “I punched f*** into him after he bit me… he threw his food tray in Leah’s face so I dropped him.”

Other exchanges appear to show staff encouraging each other to push inmates into confrontation. One officer writes: “Let’s push him to go tomorrow so we can drop him,” followed by: “Big time, f*** him off.”

In another, officers make light of suicide risks. One message reads: “He’ll tie a bag around his neck,” with a response: “Too much paperwork.” Another adds: “Don’t have to do paperwork if you pretend not to see it.”

The language throughout is crude, dehumanising, and laced with jokes about violence. In one thread, staff describe an inmate with serious mental health issues as “crackhead Jesus,” and another talks about a

All four have been released without charge following their arrests in September.”

G4S, which runs HMP Parc, issued the following statement: “We are aware a decision has been made not to proceed further with a number of initial cases. It is not appropriate for us to comment on other cases which are ongoing, but we will continue to support police colleagues.”

This week, The Herald also revealed police are separately investigating the alleged sexual assault of a young inmate on X1 Wing, who was reportedly coerced and scalded. Advocacy groups have described the incident as a “catastrophic failure” of the prison’s safeguarding procedures.

prisoner who had slit his wrists, calling him a “daft c***” and suggesting he should be “in a lonnie bin.”

The leaks come as it is confirmed that a total of ten officers at HMP Parc have now been arrested since September 2024 as part of a major police swoop on the prison.

In a statement to The Herald, South Wales Police confirmed:

“South Wales Police arrested four people on Friday September 20, 2024, on suspicion of assault and misconduct in public office following reports of a series of incidents at HMP Parc.

“An additional arrest phase took place in January 2025.

Those arrested during the second phase are a 35-year-old man from Bridgend; a 40-year-old man from Swansea; a 38-year-old man from Barry; a 50-year-old man from Taibach; and a 23-year-old woman from Cardiff — all of whom have been bailed for further enquiries until the end of April 2025.

A 36-year-old man from Llanelli has been released under investigation.”

Detective Chief Inspector Dean Taylor said: “The investigation remains ongoing, and officers are continuing to work closely with G4S.”

HMP Parc has also recorded at least eight inmate deaths in the past 12 months, with several suspected to be linked to drugs or suicide. Campaigners say the leaked messages now confirm the culture of neglect and violence that whistleblowers have warned about for years.

“This is more than misconduct — it’s cruelty, covered up and normalised,” said a campaigner for prisoner rights. “The public deserves answers, and the victims deserve justice.”

The Ministry of Justice’s anticorruption unit is supporting the ongoing police investigation.

Parc, the largest prison in Wales, is one of the few in the UK operated by a private firm. It has faced growing calls for an independent inquiry into its operation, following riots, staffing failures, and the replacement of its director last year.

In court charged with intentional strangulation

A PEMBROKESHIRE man is to appear before a Crown Court judge for trial charged with the intentional strangulation of a female.

Brian Pratt, 51, is accused of the intentional strangulation of the woman at

an undisclosed location in Maenclochog on March 4.

He faces a second charge of assaulting her the same day, causing actual bodily harm. The Crown Prosecution alleges that the woman’s breathing was restricted

for approximately ten seconds as a result of the strangulation, and her finger was broken during the assault.

of woman

This week Pratt, of Penterfyn Cottage, Maenclochog, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates where he denied both charges.

Despite magistrates accepting jurisdiction in the cse, Pratt elected a Crown Court trial and proceedings will now commence at Swansea on May 2. He was released on unconditional bail.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Inquest reveals tragic consequences of inadequate medication in prison

AN INQUEST at Pontypridd coroner’s court has shed new light on the fatal events that led to the death of 25-year-old Lewis Rhys Thomas Petryzyn at HMP Parc Prison on April 15, 2022. The court heard how the young inmate, who struggled with sleep due to a lack of proper medication, turned to the psychoactive substance known as spice, setting off a chain of events that ended in tragedy.

A STRUGGLE FOR RELIEF

According to evidence given at the inquest, Mr Petryzyn had long battled sleep issues while in custody, a condition exacerbated by the unavailability of his necessary medication. Desperate for relief, he succumbed to the temptation of spice, a drug reportedly circulating in the prison and widely known among inmates. His cellmate, Adam Mathias, described how on the day of his death, the two shared the substance—a decision that would prove fatal.

WITNESS ACCOUNTS PAINT A GRIM

PICTURE

Cellmate Mr Mathias, who characterized himself as Petryzyn’s “pad mate,” recounted the events of that fateful day. He noted that after smoking, Mr Petryzyn’s initially appeared to be in good spirits, even laughing off concerns about the substance. However, shortly after, he began to show signs of distress. “I was on the phone when I noticed he wasn’t moving. I helped him to his bed, but within minutes, I realized something was terribly wrong,” Mr Mathias recalled. Despite the rapid response from prison staff and paramedics, who administered life-saving treatment around 2:30pm, Mr Petryzyn was pronounced dead at 4:03pm.

Mathias also revealed that there had been recent warnings about a “bad batch” of spice circulating on the wing—a fact that underscores the dangerous environment within the facility. “It’s hard being locked up all day when you’re constantly being tempted by the presence of these drugs. Even though I was trying to keep him away from it, he told me he’d slipped up again,” he explained.

A LIFE REMEMBERED

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Beyond the tragic circumstances of his death, Mr Petryzyn was remembered by family and friends as a caring and vibrant individual. His mother, Karen Thomas, described him as “very caring” and a “mammy’s boy” with a magnetic personality. A former pupil of Cwmtawe Comprehensive School, he was celebrated for his generosity and willingness to help others. His love for travel was well known—having journeyed to destinations such as Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, Poland, and Ibiza—and he had even spent a season working in Majorca.

A passionate football supporter, Mr Petryzyn was a season ticket holder for Swansea City and a devoted fan of Liverpool. His ambitions extended beyond his time in prison; he had plans to pursue a career as a barber and dreamed of visiting Iceland with his family upon release.

A SYSTEM UNDER SCRUTINY

The inquest, held before a jury set to continue until April 11, has raised broader questions about the availability of essential healthcare within prisons. Critics argue that the lack of proper medication can push vulnerable inmates toward dangerous alternatives, creating a perilous cycle that puts lives at risk. Mr Petryzyn’s case is now being examined as a stark reminder of the human cost of systemic healthcare failings in correctional

Man fined £800 for driving without insurance

A TRECWN motorist has been fined more than £800 after being caught driving without third party insurance on the A40 at Abermawr, near Mathry.

Callum Wade Campbell, 30, of Ffos Las, Trecwn, committed the offence just one week before changing his address, which he said led to an oversight in informing the courts of his new circumstances.

“I received no correspondence and didn’t send off my driving licence,” he told the court. “I accept that I didn’t have insurance, but I didn’t realise I had to send off certain details.”

Campbell was fined £507 and ordered to pay a £203 court surcharge and £90 in costs.

facilities.

As the investigation continues, family members and advocates alike are calling for urgent reforms to ensure that no one is forced into making desperate decisions due to inadequate medical support. In the wake of this tragic loss, many in the community are left mourning the life of a young man whose potential was cut tragically short.

LOOKING AHEAD

The ongoing inquest aims to uncover further details and hold those responsible for prisoner welfare accountable. For the loved ones of Lewis Rhys Thomas Petryzyn, the hope is that his story will lead to meaningful changes in the prison system, preventing future tragedies born out of neglect and the unregulated circulation of harmful substances.

Pembroke Dock man sentenced for assaults on police officers

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has been sentenced for assaulting two police officers following his arrest earlier this month.

Ashley Rickard, 27, of Elizabeth Court, was arrested on March 15 in connection with incidents in both Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock. During his arrest, he lashed out at officers, resulting in the assault by beating of PC Morse and the common assault of PC Walker.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that PC Walker sustained abrasions to his left ear and arm during the attack.

Rickard, who was remanded in custody following the offences, appeared before magistrates this week and pleaded guilty to both assaults, as well as two further charges of obstructing or resisting police in the execution of their duty.

He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who said his client had been struggling with intrusive thoughts at the time of the offences.

Driver found slumped at wheel

normally he doesn’t drink alcohol like this,” said probation officer Julie Norman.

“He wasn’t getting the help he needed, and this culminated in him drinking. Obviously, he doesn’t want to go back to prison. Since his remand, he’s now clean of substances and determined not to reoffend. The defendant is clearly a man with vulnerabilities who needs more assistance.”

After considering a detailed pre-sentence report prepared by the probation service, magistrates sentenced Rickard to 14 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. He must complete 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and a drug rehabilitation programme.

He was also ordered to pay £100 compensation to PC Walker, along with a £154 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

“When he was first remanded in custody, he was struggling mentally, but now he wants to better himself in the community,” said Mr Lloyd.

A MOTORIST found slumped over his steering wheel with the engine still running has admitted being three times over the legal drink-drive limit.

Robert McMillan, 44, was spotted by another driver at around 1:00pm on September 19 while parked near St Florence. Concerned for his welfare, the member of the public called police.

“A member of the public contacted the police as they were concerned that he’d either been drinking, taking drugs, or had a medical issue,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“The engine was running and when the member of the public asked him if he was ok, the defendant gave him a thumbs-up.”

Following his arrest, a blood sample revealed McMillan had 272 micrograms of alcohol in his system— the legal limit is 80.

This week McMillan pleaded guilty to drink-driving. In mitigation, he claimed he had consumed a pint of alcohol at a pub in Penally and, after suspecting he had a flat tyre, pulled into a layby and drank three-quarters of a bottle of wine he had in the car.

“This led to his high reading as

However, the Crown disputed this version of events. CCTV footage played in court captured the member of the public telling officers that McMillan had fallen out of his vehicle.

McMillan was represented by solicitor Alaw Harries, who said the offence would have serious repercussions.

“For the past 17 years, Mr McMillan has worked for a mental health charity based in Cardiff, but his role involves a significant amount of driving,” she said. “His employers are now going to have to reconsider his position. This is going to have a huge impact on both himself and others. He’s disappointed in himself and is extremely sorry.”

Magistrates disqualified McMillan from driving for 28 months and imposed a 12-month community order, requiring him to complete 100 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs.

Due to the level of alcohol in his system, McMillan is now classed as a high-risk offender and must prove he is medically fit to drive before reapplying for his licence.

Shellfish gathering labelled ‘out of control’ in Saundersfoot

ANGER is growing in Saundersfoot after more than 200 people descended on Glen Beach on Sunday (Mar 30) to harvest razor clams, mussels, and cockles.

County councillor for Saundersfoot South, Chris Williams, said he had never seen such large numbers and described the activity as “decimating” the local environment.

“I counted between 200 and 250 people picking shellfish,” he told The

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Herald. “They’re not locals collecting a few for tea – these are people with trollies and salt machines, taking large quantities.”

Cllr Williams said groups arrived en masse, blocking drives, leaving litter, and even removing a bollard to squeeze in more vehicles on the narrow road leading to the beach.

“It’s out of control,” he said. “Enough is enough. Feelings are running high and I don’t want individuals taking matters into their own hands.”

The councillor is calling a meeting with representatives from Saundersfoot Harbour, the Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales, and Dyfed-Powys Police to address the issue.

He said: “The Welsh Government has promised new signage, but we need proper enforcement and a long-term plan.”

The Herald understands that Welsh Government marine enforcement officers were present on Sunday to monitor the situation. A previous multi-agency operation took place in 2022 following similar concerns.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council confirmed that Glen Beach is not commercially classified and

therefore commercial gathering of live shellfish for human consumption is not permitted.

They added: “Legislation allows for small quantities for personal use. Gathering for commercial purposes requires classification by the Food Standards Agency and regular monitoring.”

A Welsh Government spokesperson said the 2024 Cockle Order applies only to designated fisheries such as the

Burry Inlet and Whiteford. “The area around Tenby and Saundersfoot is not currently classified. Anyone suspecting commercial collection should report it to Pembrokeshire County Council or the Food Standards Agency.”

The Government added that while their marine enforcement officers can regulate shellfish size, issues like littering and illegal parking fall under the remit of the local authority and Dyfed-Powys Police.

Concerned again: Cllr Chris Williams

Tenby man fined for failing to carry out unpaid work activity

FAILURE to attend unpaid work sessions following a court order imposed by Haverfordwest magistrates has resulted in another court appearance for Penally resident Cheyne Lloyd.

Lloyd, 30, failed to attend the unpaid work sessions on two separate occasions despite an 18-month community order imposed following a conviction for common assault.

The order was made in July 2023 comprising 25 RAR days and 200 hours of unpaid work, however Lloyd, of Alma Gardens, Penally, Tenby failed to attend the unpaid work sessions on two

separate occasions in October 2024 and February 2025.

This week he pleaded guilty to the breach when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates.

He was legally represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“When he first came before the court he was like a different person who was in a very bad place,” said Mr Lloyd. “It was the worst place he’s ever been in in his life.

“Despite the breach, this is someone who’s made real progress.”

Lloyd was fined £100 for the offence.

Silverdale resident drove after drinking to escape ‘distressing living conditions’

A COURT has heard how a resident of Silverdale Lodge was so desperate to escape his difficult living conditions that he drove off in his van while intoxicated, following a drinking spree.

Bobby Williams, 41, was spotted in his parked vehicle by officers on the evening of March 4. When they spoke to him, he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Subsequent ANPR checks confirmed that he had been driving the van approximately ten minutes earlier.

A roadside breath test proved positive, and a further test at Haverfordwest police station showed he had 88 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath—more than twice the legal limit. However, Williams refused to provide the required evidential samples when requested by officers.

He appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week, where he pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

Defending, solicitor Tom Lloyd said that Williams had struggled to rebuild his life following a prison sentence for stalking his former partner.

“Things haven’t been easy for him,” said Mr Lloyd. “He used to be a self-employed builder in Newport [Glamorgan], but due to post-custodial licence conditions, he is no longer allowed to return there.

“He’s been living in Silverdale Lodge—this court is well aware of the challenges residents face there. The defendant isn’t used to that sort of lifestyle, and that night, things weren’t particularly comfortable. He went out with the intention of sleeping in his van. He just wanted to get away.”

Mr Lloyd added that since his release from custody, Williams had made significant progress with his probation requirements.

“He’s taken every step to address his behaviour and complied fully with probation. He’s doing extremely well,” he said.

Magistrates imposed a 24-month Community Order, including 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and a 120-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement. Williams was also disqualified from driving for 24 months and must pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

Driver with spinal condition fined for refusing blood test

A PEMBROKESHIRE man who lives in constant pain due to a serious spinal condition has been ordered to pay over £1,000 after being found guilty of refusing to provide a blood sample for analysis.

Ryan Ratcliffe, 41, was stopped by police on December 12 and gave a positive roadside drugs test. He was taken to Haverfordwest police station, where officers requested a blood sample for further analysis.

“But he refused, saying he was afraid of needles,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week. “No medical evidence has been given to the court to prove that this was correct.”

Ratcliffe, of Bro Waldo, Clunderwen, had denied the charge of failing to provide a specimen for analysis but was found guilty following a trial on March 17. He returned to court this week for sentencing.

Defending, solicitor Michael Kelleher told magistrates that Ratcliffe suffers from spinal stenosis—a degenerative condition that causes the narrowing of the spinal canal.

“He has the condition in his neck,

middle back and at the base of his spine,” said Mr Kelleher. “It is untreatable and will affect him for the rest of his life.”

The court heard that Ratcliffe’s home has been specially adapted to his disability and that he relies on a carer for day-to-day assistance.

“The problem is further exacerbated by the fact that he lives in a rural area with limited public transport,” added Mr Kelleher. “Having access to a vehicle was his only way of getting to his local shop. But now that’s going to be lost.”

Ratcliffe was disqualified from driving for 24 months. He was fined £300 and ordered to pay £650 in court costs along with a £120 victim surcharge.

Farm worker accused of threatening to burn employer’s farm

A PEMBROKESHIRE farm worker has appeared before magistrates charged with threatening to burn his employer’s 375-acre estate and threatening to kill a work colleague.

Latvian national Janis Dambrans, 52, appeared in custody before Haverfordwest magistrates on Monday, charged with threatening to burn ‘everything’ at Fenton Home Farm, Crundale.

The Crown alleges that the threat was made on March 24 after Dambrans’ employer, Mrs Clare Morgan, terminated his employment.

“He didn’t take that very well and threatened he would burn everything,” Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies told the court. “This was taken as a threat to commit damage to the farm property.”

Dambran is also accused of threatening to kill his work colleague, Andres Romanos, during an alleged altercation at the farm on February 25.

“The defendant approached Andres Romanos and told him that he would kill him,” continued Dennis Davies.

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

“He was then seen picking up a piece of wood, and tried to assault the victim with it.”

Dambran is further accused of pouring petrol over the doorstep of Mr Romanos’ caravan and car, and attempting to set fire to them in June, 2024.

“He was seen by witnesses lying on the ground in a very intoxicated state, but was unable to use his lighter to set fire to the caravan and the car,” said Dennis Davies.

On March 23, Dambran is accused of going to the doorstep of Mr Romanos’ caravan carrying two daffodils.

“This is an indication of a death threat in Latvia,” said Dennis Davies.

Denied charges of attempted arson; making threats to kill Mr Romanos; causing Andres Romanos to fear that violence would be used against him; making threats to burn everything belonging to Clare Morgan

and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, namely a piece of timber.

“The police have stated that the defendant has serious issues with alcohol and the Crown requests

that he be remanded in custody,” concluded Dennis Davies.

Magistrates granted the Crown’s request, and Dambrans was remanded pending his next appearance at Swansea Crown Court on May 2.

One airlifted after crash at Myrtle Hill near Whitland

A PERSON was airlifted to hospital after being freed from a crashed car by firefighters, following a singlevehicle collision near Whitland on

Saturday afternoon (March 29).

Emergency services were called to Myrtle Hill, Cwmbach, at around 12:45pm after a car left the road and landed on its passenger side. Two people were in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

One casualty managed to get out of the vehicle before crews arrived, but the second person was medically trapped and had to be rescued by firefighters using a spine board and specialist equipment.

Crews from Whitland and Crymych fire stations, Dyfed-Powys Police, the Wales Air Ambulance, and a land ambulance all attended the scene.

One casualty was taken to hospital by land ambulance, while the other was flown to hospital by air. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

The road was closed between 12:45pm and 4:00pm to allow for recovery and investigation work.

A spokesperson for Wales Air Ambulance said: “Our Cardiff-based crew was tasked at 12:51pm and arrived on scene at 1:15pm. Our involvement concluded at 3:06pm.”

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson confirmed: “We received a report of a single-vehicle road traffic collision at Myrtle Hill, Whitland, at around 12:45pm. One person was taken to hospital by air ambulance with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they were alerted at 12:50pm and left the scene at 1:37pm.

“Crews responded to a road traffic collision involving one private motor vehicle that had left the roadway and come to rest on its passenger side,” said a fire service spokesperson. “One casualty was already out of the vehicle on arrival. One person was medically trapped and extricated using a spine board and small gear.”

Victims praised as 1980s child rapist jailed for 16 years

A POLICE detective has praised the “immense strength” of two survivors of child sexual abuse after their attacker was finally jailed nearly four decades later.

Gary Hicks, now 64, was sentenced to 16 years behind bars at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Mar 29) after being convicted of rape and multiple child sex offences committed in the Milford Haven area between 1987 and 1989.

At the time of the abuse, Hicks was in his late twenties. His victims, a boy and a girl, were both very young when the crimes took place.

Hicks, of Oregon Way, Luton, was found guilty of rape, two counts of indecency with a child, and three counts of indecent assault. His convictions followed two trials—one in August 2023 and another in February this year—after the jury in the first trial failed to reach a verdict on one of the rape charges.

The abuse came to light in October 2022, when the female victim reported what had happened to her. Her disclosure led to a police investigation, during which the male victim also came forward.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Emily Gmerek of Dyfed-Powys Police, who led the investigation, said:

“I would like to thank the two extremely brave victims in this case. They have shown immense strength of character, firstly in talking about the abuse, and secondly for working with us throughout the investigation, and the trials.

“This case is an important reminder that justice can be served many years after abuse has taken place. I sincerely hope the victims and their families can now try and move on with their lives, and that after almost 40 years, Hicks’ sentencing gives them some kind of closure.”

During the trial, the court heard how Hicks manipulated and threatened the female victim to keep her silent.

“He told her if she ever told anyone about the abuse, she wouldn’t be believed and she would have no friends,” said prosecuting counsel Daniel Jones. “Who is going to believe a young girl over a grown-up?”

Judge Huw Rees, in passing sentence, said: “This had the desired effect on her,” and described

Hicks’ actions as “distasteful and discomforting”.

Hicks will be required to serve twothirds of his sentence before he is eligible for release. He will also spend

a further year on licence and has been placed on the sex offenders register for life. In addition, he is subject to indefinite restraining orders preventing him from contacting his victims.

One man remanded and one bailed following drugs raid in Neyland

TWO men have appeared before magistrates charged with supplying Class A cocaine from a housing estate in Neyland.

Miguel Ada and Marcel Mullings were arrested by officers at an undisclosed property in College Park, Neyland, on March 27 on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A cocaine and cannabis.

Mullings, 22, of no fixed abode, is further charged with possessing £1,740 in cash as a result of his alleged drug dealing. The court was told that the cash was found inside a pillow at the property.

“A number of people were found at the address, including the two defendants,” Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies told Haverfordwest

magistrates this week, after both defendants were brought before the Bench in custody.

“Cash was found in a pillow, while text messages linked Marcel Mullings to the supply of drugs. Police believe this may be attached to county lines.”

No pleas were entered and Mullings, of no fixed abode, was remanded in custody while Ada, of Claude Road, Roath, Cardiff, was released on conditional bail. The conditions are that he does not enter Pembrokeshire and he resides at his home address in Cardiff.

Given the seriousness of the allegations, magistrates declined jurisdiction and the matter will now be dealt with at Swansea Crown Court on May 2.

‘Yeah but no but’ insult to female officer lands Monkton man with court fine

A MONKTON man who compared a female police officer to TV character Vicky Pollard during a nightclub incident has been fined after admitting causing alarm or distress.

Police were called to the nightclub in the early hours of March 28 following reports of a disturbance.

“It was around 3:00am and a number of police officers were present as a result of a dispute concerning the defendant,” Crown Prosecutor

Dennis Davies told Haverfordwest magistrates on Monday (Mar 31). “He believed he’d been the victim of a robbery.”

During the altercation, 28-year-old Boswell pointed at one of the female officers and said he didn’t want to speak to her.

“He called her fat, and likened her to Vicky Pollard,” added Mr Davies.

Boswell was also seen pushing out towards his ex-partner.

“He didn’t make contact with

her and no injuries were caused, but he was out of order,” Mr Davies continued.

Boswell pleaded guilty to causing a police officer alarm or distress, and to assaulting his ex-partner by beating. He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“Being remanded in custody for a number of days since the offence may be sufficient punishment for the defendant,” said Mr Lloyd. “He’s recently been drinking heavily as a

result of a family bereavement that’s upset him very much, but he now realises that he needs to sort himself out. His family are not impressed and will not tolerate this sort of behaviour.”

Boswell was fined £240 and ordered to pay a £96 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

“This was a foolish thing to do and has proved a very expensive night out,” commented the presiding magistrate.

RNLI crew assist with multiple emergencies in police-led operations

ANGLE RNLI lifeboat volunteers have been kept exceptionally busy this week, responding to four separate incidents—three of them in support of police operations— between Tuesday and Sunday.

The series of callouts began on Tuesday (Mar 25) at 5:08pm, when the crew launched to assist a 6.5-metre rigid inflatable boat (RHIB) that had suffered a complete engine failure off Angle. The pilot vessel St Davids had already reached the casualty and secured it alongside by the time the lifeboat arrived. A tow was established, and the stricken vessel was brought safely into Neyland Marina. The lifeboat was back on station and ready for service again by 6:45pm.

On Saturday (Mar 29), the lifeboat was launched again at 4:25pm to

assist police at Gelliswick. Once on scene, the crew deployed their Y-boat to head inshore. Coastguard rescue teams from Dale and Broad Haven were also in attendance alongside police and a marine unit vessel. The incident was safely resolved after around an hour.

While recovering the Y-boat, the RNLI crew were immediately retasked to a second police incident—this time at Sandy Haven. The crew made best speed and received further updates en route. On arrival, it was confirmed that the casualty involved was secure and no further action was required. The lifeboat returned to station and was ready for further duty by 6:30pm.

Less than 12 hours later, at 5:56am on Sunday morning (Mar 30)—which also marked Mother’s Day—the crew was paged again to assist with a police

Police assist as loose horses cause concern near Pembroke Leisure Centre

A GROUP of loose horses caused alarm near Pembroke Leisure Centre on Sunday (March 30), prompting a police response and reigniting concerns over the ongoing issue of fly-grazing in Pembrokeshire.

Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended the scene to ensure public safety and attempt to secure the animals, which had been spotted wandering in the area.

This latest incident comes amid growing frustrations over repeated occurrences of horses roaming freely on roads and public land, or on private land without the landowner’s permission.

The problem of fly-grazing—where horses are left to graze on land without consent—has become a serious issue across the county, with multiple cases reported in recent months including at St Daniels Hill in Pembroke. In that case, horses were eventually removed following a long struggle by landowner

£595,000

Paul Hay, who said the situation had caused significant distress and called for new legislation to protect the public.

Last month, one local resident reported her father suffered head injuries and wrote off his car after hitting a loose horse on the A477 in the dark. Despite the severity of the incident, no further police action was taken, fuelling anger among residents.

County Councillor Jonathan Grimes has been liaising with local authorities and police in a bid to address the issue, while members of the public have also come forward to share experiences of property damage and road closures.

The Herald has contacted DyfedPowys Police for a statement about the latest incident.

Anyone with concerns about loose horses which may cause a danger to traffic or pedestrians can call the police on 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

problem in recent years, with a large increase in incidents in the last few months (Image: File)

cannabis farm found in abandoned Carmarthen tyre centre

Dyfed-Powys Police uncovered a sophisticated cannabis farm valued at nearly £600,000.

Officers discovered 566 cannabis plants inside the building on Wednesday (Mar 26) during an intelligence-led operation under the force’s ongoing Operation Scotney – a campaign aimed at dismantling industrial-scale cannabis grows run by organised crime groups.

Three men – Atnant Kuka, Edison Kuka, and Bobo Orgest – were arrested at the scene. All three have been charged with the production of cannabis and remanded in custody pending further court proceedings.

Police say the discovery is a significant blow to the criminal networks seeking to profit from the illegal drug trade in Carmarthenshire and the wider region.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “This seizure represents

the success of proactive policing and partnership work in tackling organised criminality. The removal of such a large quantity of cannabis from circulation is a positive step towards protecting our communities.”

The force confirmed that the Carmarthenshire proactive policing team was instrumental in executing the warrant and bringing the operation to a close.

Authorities have praised the coordinated work between police departments and specialist units, highlighting the importance of surveillance, intelligence, and community reporting in cracking down on drug production sites.

Investigations into the wider network behind the grow are continuing.

incident at Hakin Point. However, the launch was stood down during muster after officers confirmed the situation had reached a safe conclusion.

All four shouts demonstrate the close coordination between RNLI crews, HM Coastguard, and DyfedPowys Police.

Fly grazing has become a huge

AN ABANDONED tyre centre in Johnstown, Carmarthen was the site of a major drugs raid last week, after

Firefighters protest against ‘punishing’ shift changes

MORE than 200 firefighters and supporters rallied outside the headquarters of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service in Carmarthen last week, protesting against proposed changes to shift patterns.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is calling on the fire authority to scrap plans to move from the current 9-hour day and 15-hour night shifts to a system of 12-hour days and 12-hour nights.

The shift change is part of a wider restructure of the traditional “2-2-4” pattern — two day shifts, two night shifts and four rest days. Management insists the new pattern will retain the same total weekly hours (42) while being “more efficient and effective.”

But the FBU says the plan is being pushed through without proper consultation and will disproportionately impact firefighters with childcare or other caring responsibilities. The union argues the changes will negatively affect mental and physical wellbeing, especially for those already stretched by demanding workloads and staff shortages.

The protest follows a damning workplace culture review in January which described the service as an “operational boys’ club” where bullying and harassment were rife. The report called for a wholesale change in leadership culture — but union leaders say those calls have been ignored.

‘STAFF PUSHED TO ExHAUSTION’

Tom Wass, Mid and West Wales brigade organiser for the FBU, said:

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“Firefighters have travelled from across the region today to rally in opposition to these 12-hour shifts. We keep the public safe around the clock, but pushing us to exhaustion and making the job incompatible with family life will only drive people out of the service.

“The huge turnout today shows how strongly firefighters feel. Senior management must stop attacking our conditions and start listening to the frontline.”

‘TRUST IN LEADERSHIP HAS GONE’

FBU regional secretary Duncan Stewart-Ball said the fire service was “in a state of crisis.”

“Firefighters no longer trust senior leaders,” he said. “Forcing through 12hour shifts, especially after the ‘boys’ club’ report, is appalling.

“These changes will make it harder for women and those with caring responsibilities to stay in the job. The fire authority must hold management to account and scrap these damaging proposals if they want to start rebuilding trust.”

‘WE’VE BEEN RAILROADED’

Firefighters on the picket line told The Herald they felt bullied into accepting the changes.

Kirsty, who has been with the service for five years, said: “I’m hoping to start a family in the near future, and I can’t see how I’ll be able to juggle work

and childcare under this new system.”

Dai, a firefighter for 11 years, added: “We’ve almost been bullied into this — they’ve completely railroaded us.”

FIRE SERVICE DEFENDS PROPOSALS

In a statement, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the shift proposals were based on “improved safety” for both staff and the communities they serve.

A spokesperson said: “Other fire services have successfully implemented the 12-12 model, which provides better continuity, clearer

handovers, and greater operational resilience. This is in line with recommendations from the Welsh Government and health and safety improvements.”

The service said it was “disappointed” that there had been “no meaningful progress” in talks with the union.

FBU general secretary Steve Wright said: “Firefighters already go above and beyond to keep the public safe, despite a decade of cuts. Forcing gruelling shift patterns on them will only deepen the crisis. The fire authority must scrap these plans immediately.”

Valero refinery escapes Trump’s new tariffs

THE VALERO oil refinery in Pembroke has escaped the impact of Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on UK and EU goods, following confirmation from the White House that all oil, gas and refined fuel

imports will be exempt from the new trade restrictions.

On Wednesday (Apr 2), Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on all imports into the United States, with higher duties targeting key trading partners including Britain and the European Union. The move has sparked fears of a deepening global

trade war, with UK manufacturers, farmers, and exporters among those facing fresh barriers to the American market.

However, a White House official told Reuters that energy imports would be excluded entirely from the tariff measures. The exemption, which applies to crude oil, natural gas, petrol, diesel and jet fuel, is designed to prevent supply disruptions and price spikes in the United States, particularly on the East Coast, where fuel imports from Europe play a vital role.

RELIEF FOR PEMBROKESHIRE

The announcement is a major relief for Pembrokeshire, where the Valero refinery at Rhoscrowther remains one of the area’s largest employers. Hundreds of local jobs depend directly on the refinery, with many more supported through contractors, hauliers, suppliers and businesses tied to the energy sector.

A local business owner in Pembroke Dock said: “This is brilliant news for the area. Valero keeps a lot of people in work around here, and the last thing we needed was more uncertainty from across the Atlantic.”

While other Welsh exports— including lamb, steel and whisky—

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A White House official said energy imports would be excluded entirely from the tariff measures (Pic: ABC)

face an uphill battle under the new tariffs, Pembroke’s key fuel production facility has been spared thanks to a combination of its strategic importance and ownership.

AMERICAN-OWNED, ATLANTICFOCUSED

Valero Energy Corporation, which owns the Pembroke site, is a US-based multinational headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. The company is one of the largest independent refiners in the world, and acquired the Pembroke refinery in 2011 from Chevron for $730 million.

The deal also included a vast logistics and retail network across the UK and Ireland, including four product pipelines, 11 fuel terminals, a 14,000-barrel-per-day aviation fuels business, and more than 1,000 Texacobranded forecourts—making it the largest branded dealer network in the UK.

At the time of the acquisition, Valero’s Chairman and CEO Bill Klesse said the move would allow the company to supply the US East Coast market more competitively, particularly after exiting US East Coast refining operations in 2010. “The Pembroke refinery remained profitable even during the depths of the economic downturn,” Klesse said. “We expect that it will be immediately accretive to earnings per share.”

FUEL TO FLOW WHEN ECONOMICS ALIGN

The Pembroke refinery has a processing capacity of 270,000 barrels per day, making it one of the most complex and flexible in Europe. It produces around 3.6 million gallons of petrol and 2.2 million gallons of diesel

daily and can process more than 60 different types of crude oil.

While exact export volumes to the United States are not publicly disclosed, the site is considered a key part of Valero’s Atlantic Basin margin optimisation strategy—designed to move fuel between Europe and the US when market conditions are favourable. Europe remains a major supplier of refined fuel to the US East Coast, where refining capacity has declined.

An energy analyst told The Herald: “Even if Pembroke isn’t exporting to the US every day, it’s a crucial part of Valero’s strategy. When the economics make sense, diesel or jet fuel from Wales can and does flow to the US.

That’s why the White House exemption

matters—it keeps those channels open.”

WIDER WELSH ECONOMY STILL ExPOSED

While Valero and the Pembroke refinery are protected under the exemption, other Welsh sectors are now facing harsh realities. Exports such as Welsh lamb, whisky, steel and car components are now subject to tariffs that could reduce competitiveness in one of Wales’ most important markets.

Welsh Liberal Democrat MP David Chadwick said: “Donald Trump has launched a destructive trade war that threatens the jobs and living standards of people right across Wales. This needs to be brought to an end quickly,

and the Prime Minister should be forming a coalition of allies—Canada, Australia, the EU—to stand against this. If the Government gives in to Trump’s threats, it will only encourage more bullying tactics in future.”

Looking ahead: volatile politics, stable demand

Although energy has been exempted for now, industry insiders warn that volatility remains high.

“The US exemption is about fuel supply and domestic prices,” the analyst added. “If demand or political calculations shift, exemptions could change too. Wales can’t afford to be complacent.”

One refinery worker put it more bluntly: “We’ve dodged this bullet, but with Trump, the safety’s always off.”

Mad Hatter magic planned for Milford Haven this Easter

THE VIBE in Milford Haven has unveiled a weekend of whimsical fun this Easter, with three themed events inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

The Easter festivities kick off on Good Friday (March 29) with a Mad Hatter’s Easter Egg Hunt, promising a fun-filled adventure for children and families.

On Saturday (March 30), the venue hosts a Mad Hatter’s Cocktail Tea Party, with live music from The Hideaway Trio, offering a more grown-up twist on the Wonderland theme.

The weekend culminates on Easter Sunday (March 31) with the Queen of Hearts Grand Finale, rounding off the holiday celebrations in style.

Organisers say posters are available and are encouraging locals to attend. The Vibe’s Marketing and Advertising Officer, Hannah Shearer, said the team would appreciate any promotion, in print or online, to help spread the word. For more information or to get involved, contact: enquiriesthevibe@ gmail.com

Tenby comes alive with eccentricity as Steampunk Festival returns in style

TENBY was transformed into a spectacle of steam-powered imagination and Victorian flair over the weekend, as the muchanticipated Tenby Steampunk Festival returned for its second year.

Running from Thursday to Saturday (March 28–30), the festival brought a colourful wave of eccentric costumes, quirky contraptions and community spirit to the seaside town, drawing visitors from across the UK –and even further afield.

Following its hugely successful debut in 2024, this year’s festival was bigger, bolder and even more inventive. Organisers say the event is quickly becoming a staple in the town’s cultural calendar, with national recognition already flowing in. Travel publisher Rough Guides previously hailed it as “a fabulous new festival

that offers a window into British eccentricity in one of the UK’s best seaside towns.”

Crowds gathered across Tenby to take part in a host of whimsical and imaginative events, from the ever-popular teapot racing to the fiercely contested Tea Duelling championships – where biscuits met their doom in dramatic dunk-offs.

One of the weekend’s standout experiences was Tea with the Time Traveller, a theatrical nod to H.G. Wells’ classic The Time Machine, which blended storytelling with a touch of the surreal. Meanwhile, new attractions such as airship racing from the dramatic St Catherine’s Island captivated audiences with their creativity and spectacle.

The festival’s beating heart was the De Valence Pavilion, which housed a bustling Steampunk Emporium,

a community art exhibition, and a packed programme of stage entertainment. A special screening of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea added a cinematic flourish, complete with a steampunk-themed introduction to transport viewers beneath the waves.

Two spectacular Peacock Parades drew hundreds to the streets on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00pm, weaving their way through Upper Frog Street, Tudor Square, the Harbour, and Crackwell Street in a celebration of colour, costume and community spirit.

Festival-goers also flocked to Church House to enjoy live performances, including the muchloved steampunk cabaret artist Madam Misfit. For those with a taste for the macabre, Victorian ghost walks, Scary Games and a Paranormal Experiment offered

something a little darker.

The Victorian photographic parlour proved a hit across the weekend, allowing visitors to capture themselves in timeless, sepia-toned style.

Anne Draper, Tenby’s community engagement officer and the driving force behind the festival, said the energy in the town was “electric.”

“We’ve been blown away once again,” she said. “People came from all over – and the streets really came alive. Steampunk folk don’t just attend the event, they are the event.”

Organised entirely by volunteers, the festival celebrates not just steampunk culture, but the creativity and inclusiveness of Tenby’s community.

Plans are already in motion for next year’s festival, with organisers promising even more magic in 2026.

Steam Punk Festival Tenby 2025 (Pics: Gareth Davies/Herald)

New library system coming to Pembrokeshire Libraries

PEMBROKESHIRE Libraries

will be upgrading to a new library management system this spring. The switch will affect services between Wednesday, May 8 and Tuesday, May 28, with temporary disruption to the systems that manage library membership, customer accounts, book loans, item details, and access to digital services.

During this time, the current system will be replaced by a temporary platform provided by the new supplier. While core borrowing services will continue, other services such as:

• Book reservations and requests

• Access to the online catalogue

• Use of self-service machines

…will be unavailable until the transition is complete.

Normal service is expected to resume from Wednesday, May 28, as libraries begin using the new system.

A new all-Wales library system

Pembrokeshire Libraries has joined the all-Wales Public Library Service consortium, supported by grant funding from the Welsh Government. The change in supplier will not only improve the quality of service for customers but also reduce costs.

Benefits of the new system include:

• A more user-friendly online catalogue

• Better account management tools

• Easier access to e-books, audiobooks, and digital resources

• A new events calendar for library

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users

There are no plans to close any libraries, including the Mobile Library and Library at Home service, during the transition. However, unstaffed access (Open Plus) at Narberth and Neyland libraries will be unavailable until the upgrade is complete.

You can still borrow books during the changeover, but you must bring your library card, as staff will be unable to access your details manually.

Loan extensions and overdue charges

• Loan due dates between 8th May and 14th June will automatically be extended to Monday, 16th June (or your next library open day).

• No overdue fines will be charged during this period.

• Any existing fines or charges will be carried over to the new system.

• Up to two years of your loan history will be transferred. If you wish to download your full loan history, you must do so by Tuesday, 7th May, via the library webpage:www. pembrokeshire.gov.uk/libraries-andculture

• Statement from the Council

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “There will be some disruption to library services as we switch over to the new management system. As our library staff learn new skills, there may also be temporary issues with e-resources, so we kindly ask for your patience.

If customers remember to bring their library card, they can still borrow books as normal. From Wednesday, 28th May, we’ll start using the new and improved system.”

Key dates to remember

• Tuesday, 9th April

Last day to place reservations, stock requests, or inter-library loan requests (including Reading Groups).

• Tuesday, 7th May

Last day to use self-service machines and Open Plus unstaffed access. Final day for courtesy and overdue notices to be sent.

• 8th May – 14th June

No items will be due back during this period. All loans will be extended to Monday, 16th June (or next working day).

• Wednesday, 28th May

Expected start of new system roll-out (depending on each library’s opening days).

Swimming Pool at Carmarthen Leisure Centre to close for essential repairs

DUE to growing safety concerns over an increasing number of loose surface tiles at both the main swimming pool and the learner pool, Carmarthenshire County Council has made the decision to close the pools at Carmarthen Leisure Centre from 14 April 2025 to allow for essential repair works.

The repairs are expected to take approximately three months to complete.

A list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) has been published on the Council’s Actif website to provide upto-date information for members and users.

Although the Council recognises that there is never an ideal time for such work, the escalating safety risk has led to the urgent need to bring forward the planned repairs.

In recent months, the Council had implemented temporary safety measures, including tile repairs and the installation of pool mats. However, it is now necessary to carry out a full relining of both pools. Additional

improvements will also be made to enhance the customer experience during this closure period.

Cllr Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said:

“We understand that many customers will have questions about how this will impact their use of the health suite, swimming lessons, access to swimming clubs, and swim sessions included in memberships.

“I would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this time. The Council has already begun contacting stakeholders and users with more specific information and will continue to do so in the coming days.

“Our aim is to minimise disruption and, where possible, provide alternative options for users and members.”

The Council is finalising arrangements and will provide regular updates throughout the closure via its website and social media channels, including updates to the FAQ page.

Pembrokeshire beach dog ban enforcement changes expected

PEMBROKESHIRE councillors have backed trialling a new way of enforcing bylaws restricting dogs on beaches in the summer season, with an emphasis on “education over enforcement”.

In previous years, between May 1 and September 30, dogs are completely banned on Tenby North Beach and Whitesands in St Davids, along with partial bans at Lydstep, Newgale beach and promenade, Saundersfoot beach and promenade, Tenby Castle and South Beach, Amroth beach and Promenade, Poppit Sands, Broad Haven North, Dale, and Coppet Hall (voluntary ban).

At Pembrokeshire County Council’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of March 27, members heard a council Task and Finish Group meeting had discussed updating the current procedure and, focusing on the education of residents and visitors surrounding dogs on beaches.

“Based on feedback received by members from users both residents and visitors, the view of the group was that a level of enforcement was required but to undertake a trial surrounding a blended approach associated with the issues of warnings for first-time offenders, combined with the issuing of fixed penalty notices where appropriate.”

It added: “This is only for dogs on beaches; dog fouling on the street and beach will continue to be enforced.”

It was recommended to take a three-fold approach: improvements in communication and visibility of the dogfree zones through a review of signage and visibility of Enviro-crime officers,

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

reviewing bylaws, and the trial of a new procedure surrounding the enforcement of dogs on beaches for 2025.

Regarding the dogs on beaches trial, the report for members said there would be an “intelligence-led” approach tackling “hot-spots”.

It added: “The response by the Enviro-crime contractor will be based on the following procedure. o If individuals are found with dogs within a restricted area, enforcement officers will undertake the following:

• Engage with the dog owners, issue a warning – full contact details will be taken.

• Dog owner will be requested to walk away from the restricted area – failing to do so will result in a FPN being issued.

• Dog owners will be asked to put their dog on a lead – failure to do so will result in a FPN being issued.

• Second offence after a warning will result in a FPN being issued.

• Dog fouling – FPN will be issued.

It concluded: “The view of the task and finish group was these measures would enable a trial season where education is given priority over enforcement, which could then be compared with the 2024 season of full enforcement.

“This will enable the committee to assess the two operating models when reviewed following the 2025 season.”

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Rhys

Jordan moved the recommendation, but said “blanket bans” on some of the county’s beaches were “overly punitive on dog owners,” adding: “Responsible owners do look after their dogs, but unfortunately it is the small minority; to have six or seven months of the year that certain beaches are completely banned from dogs is a bit much in my view.”

Committee chair Cllr Mark Carter said: “70 per cent of those caught with dogs are tourists, I really think we’re sending out the wrong message; giving a warning is fair in my mind, it’s good for business and good for tourism; I’m very grateful to officers for getting this to this level.”

Members agreed to back the recommendations of the task and finish group.

Probe into ‘escalating’ horse fly-grazing in Pembrokeshire

A COUNCIL working group to look in greater detail on the issue of “escalating” numbers fly-grazing horses in Pembrokeshire is to be established.

The county has witnessed a significant increase in incidents of horses being left on public land and highways – known as fly-grazing.

The matter was raised at the March meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as an update on the issue being raised at a previous committee, with a recommendation to establish a working group.

A report to members, presented by Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “The cost of dealing with unlawfully grazed horses can be substantial, often running into many thousands of pounds. The Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 is the legal framework for enforcement across Wales. The primary policy objective in relation to this Act is to work towards establishing a fly grazing free Wales.

“The Act provides all local authorities

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

in Wales with legal powers to seize, impound, sell, re-home, return, dispose of and destroy horses by humane means after certain notifications and time limits, when the horses are found causing nuisance by fly grazing, straying or have been abandoned in a local authority area.”

Cllr Sinnett said the issue was county-wide, but there was a particular issue in the south of the county.

The report said that action would only be taken to remove fly-grazing if there was a risk to people or property, or if the horse had strayed on the highway.

It added: “As members are aware, in recent months issues associated with fly-grazing in the county have escalated. This has placed pressure on multiple services within Pembrokeshire County Council and Dyfed Powys Police from a public safety perspective, especially in regards to reports of horses straying onto the highway.

“As a result of this escalating

situation involving services across the Authority and public sector partners, multi-agency meetings surrounding this complex situation have been undertaken. In addition to an interim multiagency response solution which has been implemented since December 2024.

“Due to the range of issues which need further consideration, the suggestion is to convene a working group with members to explore this in more detail.

“In addition to this, Pembrokeshire County Council is also receiving requests from private landowners to enact the powers within the Control of Horses (Wales) Act on their behalf, which is an area of work not covered under the existing policy. This is an area of review which can also be given consideration by the working group.”

Members agreed to establish a working group to review the policy agreed in 2015 and identify any suggested amendments.

The issue of fly-grazing in his

locality has recently been raised by Pembroke Monkton county councillor Cllr Jonathan Grimes after being “inundated with complaints”.

Cllr Grimes has previously said he received threats over the issue, which have been reported to police.

New operators set to take charge of Haverfordwest airport

HAVERFORDWEST airport’s new operators are expected to take their lease up in the next few days as part of a drive to make the facility cost-neutral to the council.

Back in 2024, members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet supported the leasing of the council-run Withybush Airport as part of plans to make the facility costneutral to the authority.

In 2023, Cabinet members heard the financial position at the councilsupported Haverfordwest/Withybush airport deteriorated in 2022/23, with an out-turn position for 2022/23 of £238,000.

That loss was been reduced to an expected £119,000 for 2023/24 “following an extensive review of the operations of the airport”.

Cabinet members, back in 2024, heard there would be a requirement on leases to obtain/keep a CAA [Civil Aviation Authority] Cat II licence and at a market rent, which would “make the airport cost-neutral to the council from the day the lease is signed, whilst also ensuring that an operational airport remains for Pembrokeshire to benefit from”.

“Any lease would have to allow

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

the operator to run the airport on the commercial terms of their choosing to give a chance of long-term sustainability, so, the council will lose full control of how the airport operates.

“However, any lease will require that the airport be maintained to an acceptable standard and that a CAA Cat II licence is maintained. If these terms of the agreement are breached, then the facility will return to the council.”

Deputy Leader Cllr Paul Miller at the time said: “The airport is a valuable facility and one I’m keen to maintain; I personally recognise that maintaining an ongoing public subsidy is not something we’re particularly keen to do indefinitely.”

He added: “What the lease, we believe, will do is maintain a franchising CAT II airport in Haverfordwest and remove our liability from day one.”

At the March 2025 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, members heard the final paperwork was “on track” to hand the airport over to the new

operators by the start of April, with the facility becoming “cost-neutral” to the authority “from the moment it’s handed over to the operator”.

Committee chair Cllr Mark Carter said: “It cost us around £100-200,000

per year; fingers crossed, I’m sure all members are delighted with this.” Members heard the initial lease would be for a 15-year period, rentfree for the first five years to allow the lease to invest in the site.

Review highlights need for collective action to tackle water quality challenges

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has this week (Mar 31) published the independently chaired review of the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) Regulations 2021, led by Dr Susannah Bolton, alongside its response committing to implement all recommendations in full.

The review, which examined the effectiveness of measures to reduce water pollution from agricultural sources, found that while the current regulatory approach is sound, there are significant opportunities to make improvements to benefit the environment and farmers. This includes improved targeting, reducing burdens on low-risk farming activities, increasing clarity for farmers and addressing regulatory gaps.

Deputy First Minister, with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “Clean water in our rivers, lakes and seas is vital for us all. We need it for drinking, enjoying the outdoors, and growing food – all parts of our daily lives depend on it, and we must do everything possible to improve water quality for future generations.

“However, water quality in Wales is still being detrimentally impacted and improvements must continue to be made. Whilst the causes of pollution are not limited to any one sector, agriculture remains one of the main

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

contributors.

“I would like to thank Dr Bolton for her thorough work on this review. Her extensive engagement with stakeholders has produced recommendations that demonstrate that those raising concerns have been listened to.

“The review agrees with our overall approach to the regulations but also shows ways we can make things better for both farmers and our environment. I plan to put all these recommendations into action.

“The existing rules will stay in place while the recommendations are taken forward and we will work together with all interested groups to develop these changes. We will make sure any new rules are fair and reasonable, while still focusing on our main goal – to reduce pollution from farming activities.”

The independent review makes recommendations in five key areas:

Better targeting regulations at polluting activities while reducing burdens on low-risk farming

Improving accessibility and clarity of regulations for farmers

Exploring alternative measures, particularly regarding closed periods and the 170kg nitrogen per hectare manure limit

Supporting innovation in farming

practices

Addressing regulatory gaps, including soil protection measures and nutrient management planning

Dr Susannah Bolton, who led the review, said: “The engagement I have conducted for this review has demonstrated that there are strongly shared aspirations for improving water quality in Wales. I am genuinely optimistic that the recommended

changes to the regulation will enable a greater degree of common agency and shared responsibility to address the challenges.”

Some changes, particularly those making regulations more accessible and clearer, will be implemented quickly. However, more complex recommendations requiring scientific and agronomic expertise will take longer to develop.

Tenby boat lift signals start of tourist season

THE ANNUAL boat lift at Tenby Harbour got underway at dawn on Monday (March 31), as a towering red crane carefully lowered vessels from the harbour’s hard-standing back into the sea—signalling the town’s preparations for the busy season ahead.

A longstanding tradition in Tenby, the boat lift marks the symbolic shift from the quiet of winter to the energy of spring and summer. County Councillor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall said: “It brings a feeling of spring and hope. It’s a sign that the town is waking up and getting ready for another busy season.”

In previous years, the event has drawn early-morning spectators who gather to watch the precision required to manoeuvre boats of all shapes and sizes into the harbour. Last year, the lift was postponed due to high winds and heavy sea swells. Despite the challenging weather, the crane arrived by 5:00am and the operation concluded later that morning.

As is tradition, the lift follows the annual ‘Blessing of the Boats’ service

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at St Julian’s Church—affectionately known as the “little church on the harbour.”

This year, favourable weather meant the lift went ahead smoothly and on schedule, much to the relief of organisers and boat owners alike. The sight of boats gently returning to the water serves as a vivid reminder of Tenby’s strong maritime identity and the community’s eagerness for the approaching tourist season.

Adding to the town’s growing reputation, Tenby was recently named one of the world’s top travel destinations for 2025. Events such as the Tenby Steampunk Festival—complete with Victorian costumes and peacock parades—continue to enhance its unique charm.

With boats once again bobbing in the harbour, residents and visitors are looking forward to the return of the vibrant atmosphere that defines Tenby in the warmer months.

Parents urged to engage with Newgale Coastal Adaptation consultation

PARENTS and guardians across Pembrokeshire are being urged to take part in a statutory consultation on major infrastructure changes planned for Newgale.

The Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project: Phase 1 Proposals are currently out for public consultation from April 14 to May 11 2025, and the project team is especially keen to engage with families in the local school community to raise awareness of the long-term changes being proposed.

The Herald understands that AtkinsRéalis, the firm leading the project on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council, has contacted schools across the area asking them to help distribute information to parents and carers.

The Newgale section of the A487 needs to be moved inland, it has been decided (Image: WNS)

The proposed works involve the construction of a new inland section of the A487, with a bridge over Brandy Brook, to replace the vulnerable coastal stretch of road currently running through Newgale. That section of road has suffered repeated flooding in recent years, and experts say it will become increasingly unsustainable due to sea-level rise and extreme weather linked to climate change.

Once the new inland road is in place, the existing coastal route would be permanently closed and removed.

In addition to the realignment of the A487, the plans include:

• The reclassification of Newgale Hill and Wood Hill, with adjustments to local traffic management;

• A short-term access road (in place for up to ten years) to serve beachfront commercial properties;

• Improved bus stop facilities and turning areas;

• The creation of a traffic-free Shared Use Path, which would replace a portion of the Wales Coast Path, helping to maintain pedestrian and cyclist access through the area.

The works are part of a wider strategy to manage coastal change in a sustainable way, while maintaining access and infrastructure for residents, visitors, and businesses.

Full details of the proposals, including maps, supporting documents, and environmental assessments, can be viewed online at:

https://newgalecoastaladaptation. co.uk/#/Statutory_PAC

Those without internet access can view the documents at St Davids Library, City Hall, St Davids, SA62 6SD, during the following times:

• Tuesday: 10:00am – 1:00pm and 2:00pm – 5:00pm

• Thursday: 10:00am – 5:00pm

• Saturday: 10:00am – 12:00pm

Anyone wishing to make representations about the proposals must do so in writing before 11th May 2025, either by email to Newgale@ atkinsrealis.com, or by post to:

Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project Team

AtkinsRéalis

Floor 4, West Glamorgan House

12 Orchard Street

Swansea SA1 5AD

The Herald will continue to follow developments on this important project as they progress.

Image: Gareth Davies Photography

Wales faces deepening housing crisis as new figures show drop in home building

THE LATEST housing figures from the Welsh Government have revealed a sharp drop in house building across Wales, deepening concerns over what opposition politicians are calling a “self-made housing crisis”.

Data covering the period from October to December 2024 shows that only 1,116 new dwellings were started in Wales — a 27% decrease compared to the same period the previous year. Completions also dropped, with just 1,336 new homes completed, a 12% fall from the previous year.

The figures have sparked renewed criticism from the Welsh Conservatives, who accuse the Labour-led Welsh Government of failing to prioritise housing policy effectively.

Laura Anne Jones MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Housing & Local Government, said the latest numbers highlighted a deepening problem.

“These latest figures highlight Labour’s self-made housing crisis in Wales,” she said.

“Labour simply aren’t building enough suitable homes and hardworking people are struggling to get on the housing ladder. Their obsession with second homes and their toxic tourism tax are the wrong priorities for Wales. The Welsh Conservatives would ensure more homes are built and empty homes

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are brought back into use.”

DROP ACROSS ALL SECTORS

The Welsh Government’s statistical bulletin confirms a decrease in house building across all tenures — private sector, social housing, and local authority-led construction.

The biggest fall was seen in the private sector, which accounted for 62% of all new dwelling completions but saw a 15% year-on-year decrease in total numbers. Social housing completions fell by 6%, and the small number of homes built by local authorities (only 62 units) represented a 13% fall on the same period the year before.

The slowdown comes amid wider concerns about housing affordability, population growth, and the availability of construction labour and materials.

TOURISM TAx AND SECOND HOMES POLICY UNDER FIRE

The Welsh Conservatives have linked the slowdown to what they describe as Labour’s “misguided” focus on issues like second homes and tourism levies. The proposed visitor levy — sometimes referred to as a “tourism tax” — would allow local authorities

to charge overnight visitors in a bid to generate revenue for communities affected by high levels of tourism.

Critics say the move could damage the rural economy and does nothing to address the underlying issue of housing supply.

In contrast, Labour ministers argue the measures are designed to help address the affordability crisis in areas where second home ownership has driven up house prices and left local people priced out.

Julie James MS, Minister for Climate Change with responsibility for housing, has previously defended the Welsh Government’s approach, saying efforts are underway to bring empty properties back into use and expand affordable housing through innovative schemes.

RURAL COMMUNITIES HIT HARDEST

The figures are particularly concerning for rural areas such as Pembrokeshire, Gwynedd, and Ceredigion, where housing demand remains high but new developments are often held back by planning delays and community opposition.

With fewer than 4,800 homes started across Wales in the whole of 2024, housing charities have also raised concerns that the government is unlikely to meet its target of delivering

20,000 new low-carbon homes for rent during this Senedd term.

Shelter Cymru and other housing organisations have repeatedly warned of a worsening crisis in homelessness and temporary accommodation, as local councils struggle to keep pace with rising demand.

POLITICAL PRESSURE MOUNTING

With the next Senedd elections coming up in 2026, housing is likely to remain a key political battleground.

The Welsh Conservatives are calling for:

• A national strategy to bring empty homes back into use

• A review of planning laws to streamline development approvals

• Greater investment in infrastructure to support new housing schemes

Meanwhile, Labour will continue to argue that their policies are geared toward long-term sustainability and fairness — especially in communities where local people have been priced out by the second home market.

But with house building in decline and demand on the rise, pressure is growing on ministers in Cardiff Bay to act swiftly before the housing gap becomes unbridgeable.

Samuel Kurtz MS urges faster approvals for energy storage projects in Wales

SAMUEL KURTZ, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, is calling on the Welsh Government to speed up planning approvals and lease agreements for energy storage projects.

During Questions to the First Minister, Mr. Kurtz raised concerns over delays affecting AMP Clean Energy’s £45 million investment in 150 smallscale Battery Box projects across Wales.

These compact storage units provide a quick-deployment energy solution, independent of grid connection queues. They help stabilise the energy network, reduce carbon emissions, and offer local authorities and landowners’ longterm income at no cost to them.

However, inconsistent approval processes among local authorities threaten to delay the rollout. While some councils process applications efficiently, others are slowing progress, potentially stalling crucial investment in Wales’ energy infrastructure.

Mr. Kurtz stressed the urgency of removing bureaucratic obstacles that could deter investors.

“It’s vital that we support companies investing in Wales’ energy future rather than bogging them down with red tape,” he said. “Battery storage plays a key

role in securing our electricity supply, especially when the wind doesn’t blow, and the sun doesn’t shine.”

He urged the Welsh Labour Government to take decisive action, ensuring Wales is seen as a welcoming destination for clean energy investment.

“These projects aren’t just about energy security, they create economic

opportunities and strengthen local communities. We need a planning system that enables, not obstructs, progress.”

Mr. Kurtz vowed to continue pressing the government for streamlined approvals, ensuring vital energy projects move forward without unnecessary delays.

Air Ambulance boosted by donation from Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society

WALES Air Ambulance Charity has received a donation of £1,850, presented by Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society President Adam Thorne at the Society’s recent Annual General Meeting.

The cheque was handed over to Mike May, the charity’s Regional Fundraising Manager, during the event, which marked the end of Thorne’s term as president.

In total, £3,250 was raised for the life-saving charity during Adam Thorne’s presidency, thanks to the generosity of members and supporters of the Society throughout the year.

Speaking after the presentation, Mr Thorne thanked all those who had contributed: “We’re proud to support the Wales Air Ambulance, which provides a vital service to rural communities across Pembrokeshire and Wales.”

Wales Air Ambulance relies entirely on donations to keep its helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road. The charity has become a lifeline for patients in hard-to-reach areas, especially in farming and coastal communities.

MIKE EDWARDS

THERE is always someone prepared to moan about the weather. I am no different.

Curse you, sunshine!

The recent fine weather has caused my beloved to point out the length of the grass on the lawn and demand that I do something about it. That means retrieving the lawnmower from its winter slumber and setting to the lawn with petrol-driven mayhem.

With a leaden feeling in my heart, I extracted the infernal machine from its winter quarters. Fighting off dust bunnies, spiders and pointed garden tools, I pulled Old Unfaithful out of the shed. It sat on the drive, a promise of hours of sweaty trudging up and down the garden.

I checked the spark plug. It looked pristine. I examined the air filter, which was grotty but usable. I checked the tank I’d drained before the winter and found it clean and empty. I filled up the tank. I topped up the oil and checked the throttle and choke. Disappointingly, both were problem-free. After raising the blades, I pulled on the throttle lever and yanked on the starter cord. There was a whirring noise but no ignition. I was not surprised. The mower had been idle for months and would take time to get going. I pulled the cord again. It whirred, and a small trail of smoke whispered from the motor. Ah, I thought, not far to go now. I heaved on it again. A whirr and a much larger gout of smoke. One more, I thought. Bracing myself, I pulled the cord as hard as I could.

There was a loud clunking sound from the mower and then silence.

I pulled the throttle again.

There was a clunk.

I pulled the throttle again.

There was another clunk.

I paused and then heaved on the cord with all of my might.

Three things happened at once. First, the starter cord snapped. Second, and in accordance with the principle that every action has an equal and opposite reaction, the sudden loss of resistance sat me on my backside. Third, a loud groan, a bang, and a massive cloud of oily smoke erupted from the mower’s engine.

My wife, alerted by Mitzi the Mutt’s frantic yapping at the explosion, walked onto the drive.

“Mike Edwards,” she gently bellowed, “what have you done?” There are moments when discretion is the better part of valour, and this was one of them.

In great detail and high volume, I listed the *expletive deleted* steps I’d taken at her “expletive deleted* instructions and offered up the observation that the *expletive deleted* mower was an “expletive deleted* heap of *expletive deleted* junk that should go to the *expletive deleted* tip.

My darling walked towards me, an ominous smile on her face.

“Then, Mike,” she hissed, “you’d better get it *BIG AND SHOCKING EXPLETIVE DELETED THAT I’D NEVER HEARD HER USE* fixed.”

Her face was the colour of a pillar box. The grin on her face did not reach her eyes. I had gone too far. This was not the time for humour, but my treacherous mouth outran my brain’s attempts to stop it.

“As it’s Sunday, perhaps we could pray.”

I closed my eyes and waited for the end.

As you can tell, I remain alive. The shed has its attractions as living quarters, and I’m still allowed to eat in the kitchen.

Cleddau Bridge Hotel site housing development takes a step forward

CASTELL GROUP, in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council, have completed the sale for the redevelopment of the former Cleddau Bridge Hotel site.

The site in Pembroke Dock was acquired by Castell unconditionally in April 2024.

Planning and Sustainable Drainage Approving Body approval has since been secured, enabling completion to be finalised and move to the next phase in bringing the site back to life.

The site has been vacant following a fire in 2019, which has left the building badly damaged and a blight on the local landscape.

The new development is set to revitalise the site, bringing fresh investment and economic benefits to the area.

Utilising social housing grant from Welsh Government, the site will develop 35 much needed social rented homes to the area.

These 35 homes will range in size and consist of various affordable housing, such as social, supported, and intermediate rent.

All properties will be owned and rented by Pembrokeshire County Council.’

Dorian Payne, Managing Director at Castell Group said: “We are delighted to reach this critical stage in the redevelopment of the Cleddau Bridge Hotel site.

“We are excited to move forward with the construction in collaboration with Pembrokeshire County Council.”

The announcement of the completion of the contracts between Castell Group and Pembrokeshire County Council’s demonstrates both parties’ commitment to delivering high-quality housing and bringing brownfield sites back into use.

The project is expected to break ground shortly.

Cllr Michelle Bateman, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “This site

has been derelict since the fire in 2019 so it’s fantastic news that it will now be developed into high quality affordable housing.

“We are committed to increasing the supply of affordable housing and this development, in one of our largest towns, will play a part in meeting the demand for housing in Pembrokeshire.”

Cllr Joshua Beynon, the local member, added: “I am really pleased to see the Council developing this piece of land that has been left as an eyesore

since it caught fire some years ago. Housing is what we need and I’m really pleased to see it happening here.”

Anyone interested in applying for one of the homes will need to have an up-to-date housing application.

If you have any queries please email the Customer Liaison Team at devCLO@pembrokeshire.gov. uk or phone them on 01437 764551, or view Housing’s Facebook page: Pembrokeshire County Council Housing Services | Facebook

Beggars Reach Hotel sold to local business family for £950,000

A WELL KNOWN countryside hotel and event venue has been sold to local operators in a deal brokered by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co.

Beggars Reach Hotel, located in the village of Burton and set within seven acres of landscaped gardens, has been acquired by a local business family with a strong track record in hospitality and retail. The family also owns an established fish and chip restaurant in the seaside town of Tenby, as well as other commercial property interests in the region.

The popular hotel features 30 en-suite bedrooms, a restaurant, bistro-style breakfast room, and several function and event spaces –including a light-filled Orangery. With its sweeping views of the surrounding South West Wales countryside, Beggars Reach has become a sought-after venue for weddings, leisure breaks, and corporate events.

The property also holds planning permission for twenty additional guest rooms and a spa facility, offering the new owners scope for further development.

The transaction was supported by Christie Finance, who secured funding for the buyers within weeks of the sale being agreed.

Sam Roberts, Senior Broker at Christie & Co, said: “After the previous owner acquired the business

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through us early last year, unforeseen personal circumstances led to the need for a resale. We launched a full marketing campaign, which attracted strong interest, and we were able to secure a suitable buyer quickly. It has

been a pleasure to assist with the sale of Beggars Reach for a second time, and we wish the new owners every success in taking the hotel forward.”

Tamara Ryan, Finance Consultant at Christie Finance, added: “It was an absolute pleasure to support our client with this acquisition. As an experienced and ambitious

local business partnership, they have exciting plans for the hotel. We secured highly competitive funding within a few weeks of the offer being accepted, reflecting the strong appetite in the market for hotel investment.”

The hotel was sold off an asking price of £950,000.

Bargain Hunt films in Llandeilo Antiques Fair

THE fair has always turned up some surprises over the years , with different celebrities turning up. This is the third time that Bargain Hunt has chosen this venue to film their show, which is aired at lunchtimeon BB1 and is watched by millions of viewers each day.The presenter on the day will be the popular Roo Irvine . Bargain Hunt sensation Roo Irvine has captured the hearts of viewers since she graced the screen as an antiques expert in 2018. Known for her encyclopedic knowledge and vibrant fashion choices, the Scottish star has become a familiar face on the programme. Roo is a regular on your screens as a ‘veteran’ of various antiques shows as well as being one of the main presenters for BBC Bargain Hunt.She is well known for her many TV appearances on Antiques Roadtrip, Bargain Hunt, Flipping Profit, Celebrity Antiques Roadtrip and many more. Roo has also recently appeared on Celeb Mastermind, Celeb Pointless & Richard Osmans House of Games. In addition Roo has done numerous podcasts, interviews, corporate and charity engagements – and continues to write for several monthly publications. From a wee antiques shop in a small village in Scotland to the screens of millions of people in a matter of months, Arusha Irvine or ‘Roo’ as she is known, says she didn’t go looking for fame. Roo was discovered after BBC Antiques Road Trip visited her store, Kilcreggan Antiques, in early 2015 and

very shortly after , BBC producers invited her to join the team of antiques experts.

Almost 8-years on and Roo is now a regular TV expert and she recently has taken on the role as a main presenter for BBC Bargain Hunt - with consummate ease. However the two experts who will join Roo on the day will not be revealed until the day of the fair to add that element of surprise.

Bargain Hunt was first aired on BBC 1 on 13 March 2000 and was originally presented by David Dickinson. From 2003 to January 2016 it was presented by Tim Wonnacott. In 2016 the format changed to a rota of hosts from a “team of experts” fronting the show.

Two teams – designated the “Reds” and the “Blues” – compete. Each team has two members, who wear jackets that correspond to their team’s colour. At the beginning of the show, each team is given £300 with which to purchase antiques. The objective is to find items that will earn the team a profit when later sold at auction. Each team is accompanied by their expert, though it is the contestants’ decision whether to heed the advice , given by their expert. After the contestants have completed their purchases and presented them to the host, home viewers are shown a “what the auctioneer thinks” section in which the auctioneer appraises the buys and gives the auction estimate. At the auction, as each item is sold, the host compares the auction sale price to the price originally paid by the team. If the final total shows a profit, the team

receives that profit in cash; otherwise, the team receives nothing.

The show is punctuated by footage of the host visiting a place of historical interest, such as a stately home or museum, and talking about the items housed there.

2019 again brought a change to the rules with two challenges, the ‘Big Spend Challenge’ and the ‘Presenter’s Challenge’ being introduced. The teams have to spend at least £75 on one item, and buy an item relating to a specific category. Other changes include the contestants introducing themselves to camera, rather than to the presenter, and the bonus buy is now revealed to the contestants in the auction room after the sale of the first three items. If the teams gain profits on all 3 items then a golden gavel is awarded to the team members,

The experts who aid the contestants in their choice of item are only revealed at the beginning of the show and therefore their identity is kept top secret.

We were delighted to have the Bargain Hunts teams back at the Llandeilo fair and it will be exciting to see what bargains the contestants discover at this popular fair. They will then be filmed at auction at a later date ,to witness what money has been made.or lost!The programs will be aired later in the year.

During the last filming in 2023 ,Eric Knowles the presenter at the time was bowled over by the spectacle of the fair and he actually got up on stage to congratulate all the stall holders for the

quality and variety of antiques on offer.He said it was a “ proper antiques Fair” and he was blown away by their displays. This went down well with the stall holders and there was a resounding round of applause from them..We were all very impressed by Eric as he took time out to speak to both the public and the stall holders.He also commented on the friendliness and the welcome they were given.

The fair at Llandeilo brings a surprising diversity of antiques on display. 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 blankets and textiles on display .

Attractive displays of gardinalia has proved extremely popular at the fair, including watering cans , wheel barrows and garden tools and large garden pots and urns.

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

Homemade refreshments will be available and doors open at 10 am until 4pm.Admission is just £2and dogs are allowed admission.

Saundersfoot waitress Charly wins prestigious Rising Star title

A CAREER switch from acting to hospitality has seen a talented Pembrokeshire restaurant worker named as Welsh tourism’s “Rising Star”.

Charly Dix, who works at Lan y Môr – a Michelin-rated beachside restaurant at Coppet Hall Beach, Saundersfoot – was honoured with the top prize in the Rising Star category at the National Tourism Awards for Wales.

The prestigious ceremony, staged by the Welsh Government and Visit Wales, took place at Venue Cymru in Llandudno.

Charly joined Lan y Môr as head waitress last summer and has already been promoted to Assistant Restaurant Manager. She said her early training as an actor gave her a unique advantage in the world of hospitality.

She explained: “I trained as an actor before switching careers, and I have not a single regret – I love my job at Lan y Môr. I’ve learned so much about this fantastic industry, and I’m lucky to work in one of the most exciting restaurants in Wales.

“My acting background really helped me starting out. As actors, we’re trained to observe people, to pick up on moods and behaviours. That helped me read the room, understand what customers wanted – whether it was a chat or a quiet meal – and build a rapport with them. I’ll carry those skills with me throughout my career.”

She added that her six-year-old son Alfie is her biggest fan.

“If I’m ever nominated for something, he always says, ‘Bad luck Mum,’ as a joke – and he said it again tonight! But he’ll be thrilled when I go home and tell him we won.”

The awards featured 48 finalists

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across 12 categories, ranging from Best Hotel to Best Event, with additional honours for sustainability, accessibility, inclusivity and dogfriendliness

The evening was hosted by broadcaster Aled Rhys Jones, who is also Chief Executive of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. Entertainment was provided by Welsh of the West End – who reached the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent –and Band Pres Llareggub, known for their unique blend of Welsh pop, jazz and hip-hop.

Other major winners included the Royal Welsh Show in Builth Wells, named Best Event in Wales. The event, which attracts 200,000 visitors annually to Llanelwedd Showground, is one of the largest agricultural shows in Europe, offering livestock and equine showcases, horticulture,

entertainment, and more.

The Best Hotel award went to the five-star Plas Dinas Country House in Bontnewydd, near Caernarfon.

The hotel’s fine dining Gunroom Restaurant, led by head chef Daniel ap Geraint – a contestant in the BBC’s Great British Menu – also scooped Best Place to Eat.

Plas Dinas, once the North Wales home of Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon in the 1960s, was purchased in 2019 by Daniel and Annie Perks, who have lovingly restored the former royal residence.

All winners were congratulated by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans MS, who said: “The Welsh Government is proud to support the National Tourism Awards for Wales, especially in 2025 – the Year of Croeso.

“These awards showcase excellence in a vital industry that employs nearly 12 per cent of our workforce and contributes £3.8 billion to our economy.

“I congratulate all finalists, who are outstanding ambassadors for Wales. I’m particularly delighted to see Charly Dix win the Rising Star award – a promising sign for our industry’s future.”

Full list of winners – National Tourism Awards for Wales:

• Best Hotel: Gwesty Plas Dinas, Bontnewydd, Caernarfon, Gwynedd

• Best B&B, Inn & Guesthouse: Glangwili Mansion, Llanllawddog, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire

• Best Self-Catering: Wonderful Escapes Wern-y-Cwm Farm, Llandewi Skirrid, Abergavenny

• Best Caravan, Camping, Glamping: Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park, Ffinnant, Trefeglwys, Powys

• Best Attraction: Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway, Porthmadog, Gwynedd

• Best Activity, Experience or Tour: Rock UK Summit Centre, Trelewis, Treharris, Merthyr Tydfil

• Bro a Byd (Sustainability): Cambrian Cottages, Berllan, Gwyddgrug, Pencader, Carmarthenshire

• Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award: Stangwrach Cottages, Llanfynydd, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire

• Best Place to Eat: The Gunroom, Plas Dinas, Caernarfon, Gwynedd

• Rising Star: Charly Dix, Lan y Môr, Coppet Hall Beach, Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire

• Best Event: Royal Welsh Show, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, Powys

• Best Dog Friendly Business: Plas Llangoedmor, Llangoedmor, Cardigan, Ceredigion

Emergency services unite for charity at Pembroke Dock Fire Station

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

A CHARITY car wash at Pembroke

Dock Fire Station drew crowds on Saturday (Mar 29), raising money in support of The Firefighters Charity.

The event, organised by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, ran from 10:00am to 4:00pm and saw a steady stream of local residents turning out to support the cause. Visitors were able to get their vehicles washed by firefighters, with all proceeds going towards helping fire service personnel and their families.

Among those showing support were local police officers, with PCSOs 8020 and 8112 from Pembroke Dock and Pembroke Police making an appearance. The

officers not only lent their encouragement to their emergency service colleagues but also had their police vehicle given a good hosing down.

“It was very busy with lots of local people supporting such a good cause,” a police spokesperson said. “Well done to Phil and the team, and a special thank you for hosing down our police vehicle whilst we were there.”

The event highlighted the strong sense of camaraderie between emergency services in the area and the ongoing support from the community for their efforts.

For more information on future events and ways to support The Firefighters Charity, visit tancgc.gov.uk or mawwfire. gov.uk.

Twitter: Breaking the Bird

TWITTER’S meteoric rise, internal power struggles, and eventual acquisition by Elon Musk are at the heart of “Twitter: Breaking the Bird,” a gripping documentary aired on the BBC. This deep dive into the social media giant’s history unpacks its transformation from a simple microblogging concept to a global communication powerhouse, ultimately rebranded as X. Through candid interviews with co-founders Ev Williams and Biz Stone, the documentary sheds light on Twitter’s idealistic beginnings and the vision that fuelled its early growth. However, as the platform soared in influence, it became increasingly entangled in debates over free speech, online abuse, and corporate responsibility. One of the series’ key focal points is cofounder Jack Dorsey’s apparent reluctance to address hate speech and harassment— issues that grew more pressing as Twitter became an integral part of political and social

discourse worldwide.

Critics have praised “Twitter: Breaking the Bird” for its incisive storytelling and meticulous research. The Guardian described it as “a 75-minute CNN/BBC documentary chronicling the rise and fall of Twitter,” particularly commending its examination of the consequences of entrusting the internet’s development to ambitious, young entrepreneurs without fully considering the societal impact. The Times echoed this sentiment, likening it to “a BBC2 documentary that examines the turbulent history of Twitter,” with insights from former employees who experienced firsthand the challenges of managing a rapidly expanding digital space.

The documentary’s thematic relevance extends beyond Twitter itself, resonating with the Netflix drama “Adolescence.”

The critically acclaimed series explores the dark undercurrents of social media’s influence, telling the harrowing story of a 13-year-old boy accused of

murdering a female classmate. Through its unflinching portrayal of alienation, bullying, and the insidious effects of online subcultures, “Adolescence” highlights the dangers of unmoderated digital ecosystems. The show has sparked widespread cultural discussions, particularly regarding the rise of toxic online influencers and their impact on impressionable youth.

Together, “Twitter: Breaking the Bird” and “Adolescence” offer complementary perspectives on the double-edged nature of social media. While the former provides a macrolevel dissection of Twitter’s evolution and its struggles with governance, the latter personalises the consequences of unchecked digital influence through a chilling narrative. Both serve as stark reminders of the urgent need to reassess social media’s role in shaping individual behaviour and societal norms, urging a more nuanced and responsible approach to online discourse.

A WORKING MAn

THE action-packed thriller

A Working Man hit cinemas on 28 March 2025, starring Jason Statham in the lead role as Levon Cade, a former military operative seeking a quiet life as a construction worker. However, when his employer’s daughter is abducted by human traffickers, Cade is forced to return to his deadly past to rescue her.

Directed by David Ayer and co-written by Ayer and Sylvester Stallone, the film is based on Chuck Dixon’s novel Levon’s Trade. Alongside Statham, the cast includes Michael Peña as Cade’s boss, David

Harbour, Jason Flemyng, and Arianna Rivas as the kidnapped daughter.

Delivering intense action sequences characteristic of Statham’s filmography, A Working Man explores themes of personal redemption and the fight against corruption. The film’s high-octane action has been praised, though critics are divided. Some argue that it takes itself too seriously, dampening the inherent absurdity often present in the genre, while others commend Statham’s ability to balance menace and humour, making his character

both engaging and formidable.

At the box office, A Working Man made a strong debut, securing the number one spot on its opening day and earning $5.6 million, outperforming other new releases.

Currently, the film is available exclusively in cinemas, but it is expected to be available for digital purchase and rental roughly a month after its theatrical release. Streaming availability on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video is anticipated around late August 2025.

Tech and Taff

TESLA’S NOSEDIVE: WHEN TECH MEETS TANTRUMS

WELL, well, well. The world’s most famous electric car firm has slammed into a wall—and this time, it’s not due to dodgy autopilot. Tesla’s sales have dropped harder than your dad’s jaw after you told him you were studying “media studies”. We’re talking about a 13% drop in vehicle deliveries in the first three months of 2025—Tesla’s worst quarter in three years.

Now, while Elon Musk might like to think of himself as Iron Man, lately he’s been acting more like the guy who presses every red button just to see what happens.

Let’s be clear: Tesla still shifted 337,000 electric vehicles worldwide. That’s not exactly peanuts. But Wall Street isn’t clapping. Shares dropped like a clapped-out Ford Escort after the sales numbers were released. And while Tesla blames a “transition” to a new model, most analysts—and, let’s be honest, anyone with eyes—are pointing at Musk himself.

Once hailed as a visionary, Elon’s now elbow-deep in Donald Trump’s administration, heading something called the Department of Government Efficiency, or, and I kid you not, DOGE. (Yes, named after the meme coin. Satire is dead.)

This political sideshow has triggered boycotts, vandalism,

and a whole movement dubbed the “Tesla Takedown”. From Berlin to Bakersfield, angry punters are spray-painting Teslas and picketing showrooms. Even teachers’ unions and public pension funds in the US are rethinking their investments.

It’s gotten so bad, New York City’s Comptroller says their pension funds lost $300 million due to Tesla’s tumbling stock price. His assessment? “Elon Musk is so distracted he’s driving Tesla off a financial cliff.” Ouch.

Meanwhile, early investor and ex-fanboy Ross Gerber called the latest numbers “a disaster on every metric” and reckons the brand is broken beyond repair. That’s like your mam turning up on Dragon’s Den and telling you she regrets investing her bingo winnings in your app idea.

To top it off, Musk admitted in an interview recently that he’s barely holding it all together. “Frankly, I can’t believe I’m here doing this,” he said. Neither can we, Elon. Neither can we.

Until next time, keep your cars charged and your CEOs out of politics.

A Very Hungry Caterpillar

THE TORCH THEATRE in Milford Haven is set to enchant audiences with ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show’ on Wednesday, 23rd April, and Thursday, 24th April 2025.

This critically acclaimed production, crafted by Jonathan Rockefeller, brings to life Eric Carle’s beloved tales through a delightful ensemble of 75 puppets.

The performance faithfully adapts four of Carle’s cherished stories: ‘Brown Bear, Brown Bear’, ‘10 Little Rubber Ducks’, ‘The Very Busy Spider’, and, naturally, the titular ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’. Since its 1969 publication, ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ has captivated readers globally, selling over 48 million copies. Meanwhile, ‘Brown Bear, Brown Bear’ celebrates its 50th anniversary with more than 18.2 million copies sold.

Described by Time Out as “A Triumph!” and hailed by The Stage as “Charming and ingenious”, the show offers an ideal introduction to live

theatre for young audiences.

Anwen Francis from the Torch Theatre’s Marketing Team expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming performances:

“We can’t wait to welcome The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show here to the Torch Theatre. Everyone has heard of the Caterpillar or read about him and now you can see the loveable character on the Torch stage with his friends. What better way to spend a morning or afternoon with the three performances we have on offer.”

Performance Schedule: Wednesday, 23rd April at 2:00 PM Thursday, 24th April at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM

For further details and to purchase tickets, visit the Torch Theatre’s official website or contact the Box Office at (01646) 695267.

NINTENDO SWITCH 2!

Ah , Nintendo—the benevolent overlords of our childhoods—have finally dropped the deets on the Switch 2, arriving 5 June.

Like an overexcited magician, they’ve yanked back the velvet curtain to reveal a sharper, shinier, more powerful gaming contraption. 1080p display, HDR, 120fps—basically, it’s gone from quaint watercolour to full-blown Renaissance masterpiece. It even comes with a chat button, so you can hurl abuse at your mates while skidding off Rainbow Road.

The real showstopper? Mario Kart World. This isn’t just a fresh lick of paint; it’s had a full-blown spa day. Water effects that glisten, characters with more polish than a Rolls-Royce, and sprawling

tracks with dynamic weather that’ll make you feel like Lewis Hamilton in a mushroom-fuelled fever dream.

Price-wise, £395 for the console alone, £429 with Mario Kart—and let’s not kid ourselves, you’re getting the bundle. But wait, there’s more! Donkey Kong Bananza swings onto the scene, Kirby Air Riders makes a longoverdue return, and a gang of third-party big hitters like Elden Ring, Final Fantasy VII Remake, and even Cyberpunk 2077 are muscling in on the action. A little redemption arc for Cyberpunk, perhaps? We live in hope.

Then there’s The Duskbloods, an exclusive multiplayer dark fantasy epic from Elden Ring devs, landing in 2026. Expect swords,

shadows, and people calling you a “maidenless cretin” in voice chat.

Hardware-wise, Nintendo’s beefed up the internal storage to 256GB (finally!), given the controllers mouse functionality, and thrown in some fancy 3D audio tech—so even your ears will feel like they’re levelling up.

Now, the big question: can it live up to the OG Switch? That little hybrid miracle shifted over 150 million units, making it one of the most beloved consoles of all time. Nintendo reckons they’ve got enough stock to dodge the dreaded PS5-style shortages, but global trade shenanigans could still throw a spanner in the works.

One thing’s for sure: Nintendo is back, and your bank account is trembling. Ready, set, kart!

HOROSCOPES

at the moment, acknowledge that you’re feeling just the right level of intensity to speak the truth either way. As long as your intentions are pure, the final result can’t help but be the same.

LIBRA Even though you’ve known them for a good long while, you’re still not quite sure what a certain special person is really all about, especially when they’re interacting with the people you care about the most. It wouldn’t be so crazy just now to find that you’re paying more attention to those who are tried and true, rather than those you’re not 100 percent sure of, and no one would think to blame you for it.

SCORPIO

Someone out there is counting on you right now for a very important favor (important to them, anyway). They need you to speak the absolute truth. You know it’s going to be difficult, as it always is, but you also know it’s the right thing to do. Fortunately, you’re perfectly equipped to handle the job. Find the right way, the right time, and the right place to talk with them. And remember to go easy on them!

SAGITTARIUS

You need to keep quiet about something you’re dying to talk about, which is absolute torture today, but it’s decidedly important under these circumstances. Try as hard as you can to distract yourself with something (or someone) pleasant, preferably hanging out with those who have absolutely no idea what’s going on. If you can, get out of the house or office and conveniently forget to pick up your phone on the way out.

CAPRICORN

The line between flirting and confusing is especially thin today, so make sure you’re not toying with anyone you care about! Even if it all feels innocent and playful, you need to be sure you know what you’re dealing with. Flirting is one thing, but playing with someone you think might be interested when you’re absolutely not just isn’t fair. Of course, if you’re both single and you may be interested, then have at it and have fun!

AQUARIUS

When you’re happy, everyone is happy. Well, almost everyone. Some don’t get it yet. You have an eccentric, irreverent, zippy sense of humor that comes out at the strangest times. After the five-second delay, most folks need to catch up, you usually reduce your audience to tears. The best part for most is that it’s just casual observations that bring it on. You’re on stage now no matter where you

Badger and Miller’s Tax Bombshell

THERE comes a point where even the most patient of mammals must throw up their paws in despair at the sheer fecklessness of the Welsh Government. And, readers, Badger has reached that point.

The latest indignity? The socalled ‘visitor levy’, dreamed up by a government so economically illiterate that it thinks discouraging visitors is a clever way to boost the economy. This is not policy; it is an act of self-sabotage dressed up as progressive governance.

Labour MSs, who have spent years waxing lyrical about the importance of supporting rural Wales and protecting local businesses, now seem hell-bent on strangling the very industry that keeps many of those communities afloat. The hypocrisy is suffocating.

Let’s be clear: tourism is a cornerstone of the Welsh economy. It brings in billions, supports thousands of jobs, and sustains entire communities from Llandudno to Tenby. And yet, rather than fostering growth, the Welsh Government’s grand idea is to slap visitors with an extra charge and hope they don’t notice—or worse, that they don’t mind being fleeced for daring to holiday in Wales rather than jetting off elsewhere.

The arrogance is staggering. Ministers prattle on about how other countries have tourism taxes as though Wales is on a level playing field with Venice or Paris. It isn’t. Wales relies on repeat visitors, on families who return year after year, and on people who choose a Welsh getaway over Devon, Cornwall, or the Lake District. Making holidays here more expensive is an invitation for them to go elsewhere. And once they do, they won’t be back.

And what of the businesses that rely on tourism? The hotels, the B&Bs, the restaurants, the pubs? Do they get a say in this? Of course not. They must simply accept that their government—allegedly dedicated to economic growth—is actively making their lives harder. And for what? A pittance in revenue that will be swallowed up in bureaucracy before it ever reaches the services

Westminster when it wants to deflect blame for its own incompetence, yet here they are, concocting ways to damage Wales all by themselves. If they had any sense (let’s be honest, a big ask), they would be finding ways to encourage investment, not driving it away.

The visitor levy is not about fairness or sustainability. It is a vanity project designed to appease those who see tourism as an inconvenience rather than an asset. Like so many of Welsh Labour’s bright ideas, it will end in disaster.

But wait, readers! That “Labour-dominated” County Council Cabinet, you know, the one that far too many county councillors and their matted clinkers on social media prattle on about, has decided it will not introduce the new tax on tourism.

Badger is unsurprised by that turn of events. He recalls the Deputy Leader, Cllr Paul Miller, saying much the same when the crackpot idea was put out for consultation.

Another Labour politician doing something the Conservatives agree with, readers? Inconceivable! And that crazed Captain Haddock tribute act and rabid socialist Miller, to boot! Readers, we have witnessed

authority fail to understand is that politics is more than blowing your own trumpet (in most cases, by farting into a colander) and banging on about first principles in the middle of a debate. Politics is the art of the possible, dealing with how things are rather than what you’d like them to be.

Pembrokeshire’s Cabinet’s position is simple: there have been a slew of new regulatory measures, how the Council treats second homes has changed, Labour’s tax on jobs will already cost small businesses money and some workers their jobs, and the cost of doing business is rising (not something the Council has much control over).

Against that backdrop, the Cabinet had to take a strategic view. The Welsh Government is determined to destroy the rural economy. The UK Government is determined to punish farmers for not reading The Guardian and being beastly to George Monbiot. The replacement of high-density employment with a wing and a prayer on “green” energy in the sweet by-and-by seems ever harder to square with the need to grow the economy now. In that context, the prospect of making Pembrokeshire a less attractive place to visit

was too much for the Cabinet to swallow.

To see one major industry undermined is unfortunate; a second tragic; a third... Well, readers, the last time that sort of thing happened, the local economy rapidly became a basket case. Employment opportunities disappeared, and locals left in droves.

That is where politics comes in. Not party politics, politics proper.

One of Badger’s favourite writers wrote a memorable passage in which one of his characters said something like: “Polis is the old word for city; politeness is behaving in a way consistent with being a citizen of the city; a policeman is a man of the city who upholds the city’s laws.

“And what, then, do you suppose the word ‘politician’ might mean?”

That is why the County Council’s Cabinet has made the right decision. In one sense, it’s an easy one: the levy won’t kick in until 2027, and the next Council will be better placed to assess the land’s lie at that point. In a different sense, it will focus voters’ attention on the issue of local taxation generally (remembering that a wholesale review of local government funding is due after May 2026).

As Badger is not of the palaeocontrarian tendency, he does not accept that all taxes are bad as a matter of principle or that Pembrokeshire’s residents are uniquely ill-served by those who represent them in County Hall. What he does accept is that tax is more than the figures on a page. Now, candidates will have the chance to make that case plain.

As anyone with even a rudimentary grasp of law would know, every case turns on its own facts. In this case, the prospect of damaging an industry struggling to recover from a million economic shocks justifies not raising the visitor levy.

So, readers: one, two, three... two cheers for the Cabinet. We’ll keep one back for the inevitable whingers. To cheer them up, too.

TRUMP, TARIFFS AND TANKING TRADE

WELL well well, if it isn’t that orange-feathered stormcloud flapping his wings again across the Atlantic. Yes folks, Donald “Tweet-storm” Trump is back in the headlines, and this time he’s screeching about Liberation Day — though from where I’m stood, it looks more like Detonation Day for the global economy.

In his latest performance — somewhere between a White House briefing and a pub fight after closing time — Trump announced new tariffs on pretty much everyone, including a 10% whack on us in the UK and 20%

on the EU. Lovely stuff. Nothing says “special relationship” like sticking a toll booth on the trading lane.

He’s calling it a move to protect American workers. I call it flipping over the global Monopoly board because he’s losing. It’s classic Trump: all noise, no nuance. He accused the rest of the world of looting and pillaging America, which, let’s face it, is rich coming from a bloke who personally bankrupted casinos. Who loses money in a casino?! That’s like a seagull missing a chip on the floor.

But let’s not kid ourselves, seagullinos. Behind the bluster and

the MAGA hats, there’s a serious undercurrent here. Trump’s saying: we’re done with free trade — and he means it. This isn’t a bluff or a bad reality TV pitch. This is the US shutting the shutters and slamming the door on the global economy while the rest of us are still browsing the aisles. And sure, it plays well to his base. They love the idea of ‘America First’, even if it turns out to be ‘America Alone, and Skint’. But the rest of us? We’re looking at price hikes, higher mortgages, and another round of “sorry, we’re out of stock” at the supermarket — only this time it’s

not Brexit’s fault, it’s Trump’s Tariff Tantrum.

Our very own Keir Starmer’s over here trying to keep things calm and pragmatic — which is like trying to do a yoga class during a seagull fight on the beach. Meanwhile, markets are jittering, and world leaders are blinking like rabbits in Trump’s Twitter headlights.

Now, don’t get me wrong — the man’s not just flapping wildly. There is a broken system at play here. The global economy hasn’t really worked properly since the 2008 crash and then Covid came along like a second wave of seagulls nicking your fish and chips. Politicians across the world have been stuck between tax cuts, spending sprees, and austerity U-turns, while ordinary folks — like you, me, and that bloke down the docks who still thinks VHS will make a comeback — are left juggling rising prices and flat wages.

But Trump’s answer? Build a tariff wall and see who blinks first. It’s not a New Deal. It’s a New Squeal — and the rest of us are about to hear it in surround sound as the price of everything climbs sky-high.

So what happens next? Who knows. Maybe the EU retaliates. Maybe China throws a spanner in the works. Maybe Boris tries to sell Trump some pork pies on a trade mission from his shed. What’s certain is that we’re heading into choppy waters, and the captain is steering with a blindfold and a vendetta.

As always, I’ll be watching from my perch, beak open, wings ready, chip in claw. Because when the big birds brawl, it’s always the little fish that get battered.

Till next time, keep your chips covered and your eyes on the skies.

Stephen Seagull Senior Global Affairs Gull – Milford Haven Docks

(P.S. If Trump puts a 10% tariff on seagull wisdom, I’m going underground.)

Scent-sational: RSPCA reveals just how powerful your dog’s nose really is

RSPCA celebrates National Pet Month with sniff-tastic canine facts

April Fool’s Day may be over, but the RSPCA isn’t joking about just how incredible your dog’s nose really is. To mark National Pet Month, the animal welfare charity is spotlighting one of your pooch’s most underrated features – their powerful snoot!

We all know dogs love a good sniff, but few people realise the full extent of what that means. Encouraging your dog to use their nose is not only enriching, but also a great way to keep them mentally stimulated and strengthen your bond.

Dr Samantha Gaines, Head of the RSPCA’s Companion Animal Welfare team, shared ten fascinating facts about our dogs’ amazing sense of smell:

EACH DOG HAS A UNIQUE NOSE PRINT

Much like human fingerprints, the bumps and grooves on a dog’s nose are unique and can even be used for identification.

DOGS CAN SMELL WITH EACH NOSTRIL INDEPENDENTLY

Dogs often start sniffing with the right nostril and switch to the left when smelling something pleasant or familiar.

THEIR SENSE OF SMELL DWARFS OURS

Dogs have up to 300 million scent receptors, compared to just 5 million in humans –making their noses 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive.

THEY RECOGNISE

INDIVIDUAL HUMAN SCENTS

Dogs can identify their owners by scent alone –even distinguishing between identical twins.

THEY CAN SMELL WHEN YOU’RE STRESSED

Dogs detect changes in sweat and breath, meaning they can sense when you’re feeling anxious or upset and may adjust their behaviour accordingly.

SCENTS AFFECT A DOG’S

MOOD

Calming smells like lavender and chamomile can relax dogs, while strong scents such as citrus or vinegar may agitate them.

DOGS CAN SNIFF AND BREATHE AT THE SAME TIME

Their noses are designed to let them smell even while inhaling. They also use different types of sniffs for different scent ranges.

DOGS CAN DETECT

ILLNESS

Trained dogs can sniff out cancer, Covid-19, malaria, Parkinson’s disease, migraines, and even blood sugar changes in diabetics.

SNIFFING IS HOW DOGS ExPLORE THE WORLD

Just like we use social media, dogs use scent marks to share information. It’s a vital part of their wellbeing and mental stimulation.

THEY CAN TELL TIME BY SMELL

As scents change over time, dogs can use these shifts to anticipate routines – like when their owner will return home or when it’s dinner time.

Dr Gaines said:

“Dogs are incredibly special animals – they’re characterful, loyal, and bring so much joy to our lives. But they also have complex needs. Their amazing sense of smell is just one example of how fascinating they are.”

She added:

“When you welcome a dog into your life, it’s vital to be prepared and informed so you can meet their needs and give them the best possible life.”

For more facts, tips and advice, visit rspca.org.uk.

If you’re considering adopting a dog or any other animal this National Pet Month, check out the RSPCA’s rehoming page.

The RSPCA is also calling on the public to get involved in shaping the future of animal welfare. Animal Futures: The Big Conversation is now live –and everyone is invited to have their say.

Spectacular evening of music at Ysgol Greenhill

MUSIC lovers can enjoy a wonderful evening of entertainment at Ysgol Greenhill in Tenby next week, featuring talent straight from the West End.

The Denmark Street Big Band will headline the evening on Friday April 4.

The musical extravaganza also marks the launch of the Ysgol Greenhill Theatre to further promote and support the arts at the school and showcase the talents of young people.

The Denmark Street Big Band are a throwback to when exciting big bands electrified audiences and recreates the swinging sounds made famous by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin among many others.

Having performed regularly on the London music circuit, the Denmark Street Band brings its show to Greenhill and will take to the stage with local favourites Tenby Male Voice Choir as part of the Choir’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

A special West End guest will also join the Choir to perform.

The event is also an opportunity to showcase incredible school talent and provide an opportunity for pupils to play alongside professional performers.

A further highlight will be a sneak preview of the return this summer of a major school

production,

This will be the first school production in six years and preparations are in full swing.

The event takes place at Ysgol Greenhill on Friday April 4 from 7pm. Ticket prices are

£18 for adults and £16 for concessions. For tickets, see https://www.ticketsource.

co.uk/ and search Ysgol Greenhill or contact the school on 01834 840100.

Supported employment learners take off on airport adventure

A GROUP from the Pembrokeshire Supported Employment Programme (PSEP) enjoyed a memorable day out at Haverfordwest Airport this week as part of their continued education activities.

The visit gave learners the opportunity to explore a wide variety of aircraft and gain hands-on experience with the airport’s emergency services. Highlights of the day included sitting inside a fire truck and trying on some of the firefighter uniform.

The group said they particularly enjoyed learning new facts about aviation and seeing planes up close in real life – a first for many. The trip helped build independent learning skills and teamwork in a fun and engaging environment.

A spokesperson for the team said: “Everyone had a great day! It was an exciting and educational experience for all involved. Thank you to Haverfordwest

Airport for allowing us to visit the site.” PSEP, supported by Norman Industries, continues to offer valuable opportunities for people with disabilities in Pembrokeshire to gain life skills, explore new interests, and build confidence.

Photo caption: Taking flight: Learners from the supported employment programme enjoyed their day at Haverfordwest Airport (Pic: PSEP).

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Labour government rejects calls to extend rural fuel relief to Wales

RURAL communities in Wales have been left disappointed this week after the UK Labour Government confirmed that it has no plans to expand the Rural Fuel Duty Relief Scheme to any new areas, including those in Wales.

The scheme, which provides a 5p-per-litre discount at the pump, currently applies to 21 remote regions across the UK— mainly in Scotland and parts of England. No areas in Wales are currently covered, despite widespread calls for support in rural counties where residents face disproportionately high fuel costs and limited public transport.

In a letter to Welsh Liberal Democrat MP David Chadwick, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury James Murray MP confirmed that the Government would maintain existing eligibility criteria, with “no plans to make changes to the areas covered by the scheme.” He cited the original intent of the scheme, which targets areas with high pump prices, logistical challenges in fuel delivery, and low retail volumes that prevent bulk discounting.

The decision comes

despite repeated calls from campaigners and politicians to address what they say is an ongoing disparity. Research shows that rural residents spend, on average, £800 more per year on fuel compared to their urban counterparts.

David Chadwick, who represents Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, has been vocal on the issue, questioning ministers and campaigning for areas like Powys, Ceredigion,

Carmarthenshire and Gwynedd to be included in the scheme.

The Liberal Democrats made extending the fuel relief scheme a key part of their rural strategy at the last general election.

Commenting on the decision, Chadwick said: “People in rural areas have been clobbered by the cost-of-living crisis.

Now the new UK Labour administration is continuing the legacy of neglect of rural areas and Wales that we saw under

the Conservatives.

“By refusing to extend the scheme to Wales, they are showing they simply don’t care about the struggles of rural communities.”

Chadwick also criticised the Government’s inaction on fuel pricing transparency, calling for a UK-wide “Pumpwatch” scheme to tackle what he described as “price gouging” in rural filling stations. A similar scheme in Northern Ireland— where fuel is consistently the cheapest in the UK—has shown promising results.

The Treasury responded that it has extended the existing 5p fuel duty cut for another year, saving the average driver £59 in 2025/26, and is investing £500 million in additional road maintenance funding to fix millions of potholes.

But critics argue that these measures fall short for communities where reliance on personal vehicles is unavoidable.

“The issue isn’t just tax rates—it’s fairness,” Chadwick added. “Labour must do better and stop treating Wales as an afterthought compared to Scotland and England.”

Farming Connect introduces nine additional training courses for farmers

REGISTERED individuals can now access over 130 training courses subsidised by up to 80%. These short courses, offered by accredited training providers, cover a diverse range of topics, categorised under business, land, land – machinery and equipment and livestock.

One of the courses added to the programme is International Certificate for Digital Literacy (ICDL) – Extra, which provides training in word processing including document creation, editing, formatting and mail merge. The course also focuses on the use of spreadsheets, presentations and improving productivity by teaching participants how to select the most efficient and cost-effective software for various tasks.

Another new course is Lantra Professional Tree Inspection which equips experienced woodland focused participants with the skills to conduct thorough tree inspections, identifying defects and recommending actions within legal and risk management frameworks. This training course helps create a reliable and trustworthy system for inspecting trees, where the decisions made can be explained and justified.

Individuals will gain advanced HACCP knowledge for food manufacturing through the Level 3 Award in HACCP for Food Manufacturing course. The course covers the essential steps of

developing, implementing, and verifying HACCP-based procedures, focusing on hazard identification and control throughout the food production process.

The Soil Science (IBERS) course is designed to explore the formation, properties, and functions of soils, emphasising their critical role in sustainable food production. Participants will investigate how human activities impact soil health and learn to apply sustainable management techniques to address current and future food supply challenges.

Another course now offered is Sustainable Supply Systems (IBERS) that focuses on collaborative strategies within food supply chains to enhance sustainability and security. It examines challenges, innovative technologies while teaching participants to evaluate sustainability approaches and the importance of information and relationship management.

For those of you that are interested in wool handling, two training providers can offer this course – British Wool and Elite Wool Industry Training UK. British Wool will run a one-day practical course for beginners to competition level while Elite Wool Industry Training UK will run a two-day practical course for all ability levels. The courses will provide comprehensive training in fleece handling, sorting, preparation, and

storage to ensure quality and market readiness.

Other courses also on offer are Emergency First Aid at Work (+F) and Livestock Production Science. For more information on these new training

courses visit https://businesswales.gov. wales/farmingconnect/business/skillsand-training/training-courses or contact your Local Development Officer, or the Farming Connect Service Centre on 03456 000 813.

NFU Cymru ‘frustrated’ by WG response to review of agricultural pollution regulations

NFU Cymru has voiced ‘frustration’ over Welsh Government’s missed opportunity to deliver urgent changes to the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations following a statutory review.

This follows the written statement by the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS on the statutory fouryearly review of the regulations undertaken by Independent Chair, Dr Susannah Bolton, which was also published today.

NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “Farmers have waited four years for this review, so it is very frustrating that Welsh Government’s response today fails to reflect the sheer desperation of farmers in Wales in grappling with the impracticality and complexity of the regulations. Farmers will be extremely annoyed that nothing has materially changed as a result of today’s announcement – the existing regulations remain in place - and farmers, already under very significant pressure, now face the very real threat of additional regulation in the future.

“NFU Cymru has had longrunning concerns about the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations. Prior to their

introduction we were clear that the regulations were a blunt, inefficient, bureaucratic and costly instrument with high costs to agriculture and unintended consequences for the environment – that remains our position.

NFU Cymru Water Quality Group Chairman Martin Griffiths added: “The survey of over 400 farmers undertaken by NFU Cymru in 2024 to provide evidence to the independent review, sadly confirmed that our worst fears about the impact of the regulations are now being borne out on farms across Wales. Farming families are facing staggering costs and an unworkable regulatory burden that is challenging farm business viability and impacting on the health and well-being of farmers and their families.

“NFU Cymru would welcome better targeting of the regulations and reducing burdens on lowrisk farming. However, the recommendation suggests farmers could have to wait up to three years to see this happen! Farmers cannot wait another three years to see change.

“Farmers will have little confidence in recommendations to only consider the possibility and explore alternative measures for closed periods and the 170kg nitrogen per hectare limit. The reality is that

Following the farreaching changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) in last October’s Budget, many Welsh farmers braced for further blows in the Chancellor’s Spring Statement last week. Ultimately, the statement largely avoided direct agricultural policy shifts; rather reaffirming fiscal constraints and austerity measures - extending cuts to welfare, foreign aid and the civil service.

imports produced in manners that would be illegal in the UK.

In particular, we could see the high animal health and food safety standards maintained by Welsh farmers undermined by the threat of lower standard imports from the US. Amongst these imports are chlorinatedchicken and hormonetreated beef - both illegal to produce in the UK.

this work has already been undertaken and submitted to Welsh Government in line with the legislative requirements two-and-a-half years ago. Today is when we should have seen changes being enacted.

“Farmers will be exasperated that far from reducing the regulatory burden placed on them by the regulations, Welsh Government wants to add additional regulations, including for soils, nutrient management planning and air quality.”

In the coming days, NFU Cymru will consider Dr Bolton’s report in more detail, reviewing the recommendations against NFU Cymru’s evidence submission last December. NFU Cymru is clear that legislative change is urgently required to amend the regulations, addressing the most challenging aspects so they are proportionate and targeted.

Concluding, Mr Jones said: “For many farmers, the onerous regulatory burden is intolerable. It is clear that the much-needed improvements to the regulations will not be delivered by this government. We will continue to highlight to Welsh Government the damaging impacts imposed by the current regulatory approach and the need for a full independent review of the cumulative burden of regulations on Welsh farming families.”

Much of the Chancellor’s decisions were however soon overshadowed, with Donald Trump’s announcement of import tariffs of 25% on cars and car parts coming into the US.

Talks of UK tariff retaliation and transatlantic trade deals have subsequently followed, and it remains imperative Welsh agricultural interests are not sold down the river in pursuit of any shortterm trade concessions.

March provided a timely reminder of the danger of ill-thoughtout trade deals. The UK Government reported a surge of 40% in imported sheep meat in 2024 compared with the 12-months prior, with Australian and New Zealand imports now accounting for 86% of the entire UK sheep meat imports - a growing threat to domestic producers, as previously warned by the Farmers’ Union of Wales.

The risks to Welsh agriculture by becoming collateral damage in any trade deal with the US could be even more significant; creating an uneven playing field, which could force Welsh farmers to compete with cheaper, sub-standard

Whilst last week we saw some voices within the political sphere advocate the inclusion of agricultural products in a US-UK trade deal - including chlorinetreated chicken - there’s no doubt any influx of cheaper US agricultural products could drastically drive down domestic market prices; severely impacting the economic viability of Welsh family farms.

Crucially, domestic consumer confidence could be shaken, too. Previous analysis shows there’s little public support for such imports - with a 2020 poll revealing that 80% of the British public opposed the importation of chlorinetreated chicken, with similar disapproval for hormone-treated beef.

Essentially, a US trade deal that fails to prioritise the protection of Welsh agriculture risks not only economic devastation but also a fundamental shift in the character and sustainability of our rural landscape and food production; jeopardising the future of generations of Welsh farmers. As discussions therefore continue around trade and tariffs, it’s vital the interests of Welsh farmers are safeguarded in any future agreements.

mThe all-new Mazda6e: Where elegance meets electrification

The all-new Mazda6e is the latest addition to Mazda’s fully electric lineup in Europe. A stylish electric hatchback with a fastback saloon style, the Mazda6e embodies a perfect balance between dynamic aesthetics and everyday practicality.

“The exterior is a true expression of its ‘Authentic Modern’ design philosophy,” explains Jo Stenuit, Director of Mazda’s European design studio in Oberursel, Germany. The vehicle’s sleek, coupé-inspired silhouette features a short rear deck, creating a sporty saloonlike appearance while maintaining the practicality of a five-door hatchback. It embodies harmony through contrast, balancing light and shadow, sharpness and roundness, to create a sense of dynamic motion even when stationary.

Mazda’s “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design language is brought to life through fluid surfaces and a low-slung profile, with parallel lines enhancing the car’s dynamic presence. This is further emphasised by the AeroFusiform shape—resembling a beautifully sculpted barrel, where all lines appear to converge at a single point. This seamless, flowing form reinforces the car’s aerodynamic elegance and sense of motion.

The sculpted door panels, inspired by the spray of a

speedboat cutting through water, create a light-catching effect that further enhances the sense of movement. The rear end exudes power and stability, incorporating four distinct cylindrical taillight elements—a subtle homage to Mazda’s rich design heritage.

For the first time at Mazda, a glowing signature wing illuminates the Mazda6e’s front, featuring dynamic light animation as a visual charging indicator.

The rear blends modern and

classic design, with a horizontal line adding sleekness and width, while four cylindrical elements honour Mazda’s heritage.

Frameless doors and integrated handles enhance the seamless look, while an electrically extendable rear spoiler improves aerodynamics and stability at high speeds.

“The cabin of the Mazda6e is inspired by Japanese simplicity, built around the design principle of ‘ma’—the power of empty space,” says Jo Stenuit. “By

intentionally creating emptiness, Mazda achieves a harmonious balance that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.”

A floating horizontal dashboard stretches across the cabin, creating a sense of openness and serenity, while the prominent centre console enhances driver focus and security. The interior design prioritises minimalism with depth, replacing excess buttons and screens with intuitive, thoughtful placement of controls.

1.2

Electrifying times for Nissan:

Nissan’s ongoing electrified product offensive will be powered up with the launch of two all-new electric vehicles in 2025 – and a third coming soon - as well as an update to one of its most innovative and popular technologies.

Workers at Britain’s biggest car plant in Sunderland are preparing to start production of an all-new third generation version of Nissan’s pioneering LEAF electric vehicle, with first cars rolling off the production line later this year.

In addition, the 6,000-strong team will build upgraded versions of the Qashqai – one of the UK’s best-selling cars – thanks to new e-POWER technology that enhances refinement and efficiency.

And the next generation Juke –available for the first time as an EV – will arrive in FY26.

As if all that wasn’t enough, Nissan will also launch an all-new fully electric Micra in 2025, designed by the team at Nissan Design Europe, based in Paddington, London.

Return of Micra as an EV

First to launch in 2025 will be the allnew Micra. It will remain true to the DNA of its predecessors with a compelling mix of audacious style and simplicity in

a compact package.

The new Micra was designed at Nissan Design Europe in London, using AmpR Small platform shared with Renault’s R5. It will be available with two battery options: 40 and 52kWh, providing a maximum range of over 248 miles. Sales of the new Micra will begin before the end of the year. It will be built at Ampere ElectriCity plant in Douai, France

Third generation of Leaf EV to follow

The second new vehicle to be launched in Europe in 2025 also

represents the return of a historic nameplate, LEAF – a badge forever associated with the pioneering EV which started the mass-market electric vehicle revolution when it was introduced in 2010.

The third generation of LEAF will attract buyers thanks to its eyecatching aerodynamic shape. It has been developed on Nissan’s CMF-EV platform, architecture it shares with its larger sibling, the Ariya.

The European version of the new LEAF will be manufactured at

Nissan’s state-of-the-art production facility in Sunderland, in the north-east of England. It forms part of Nissan’s EV36Zero project– a blueprint that will transform Sunderland Plant into a flagship EV hub, bringing together electric vehicles, renewable energy and battery production.

Nissan’s updated e-POWER will offer more refinement and efficiency

Having reinvented the hybrid powertrain when it was launched in 2022, Nissan’s unique e-POWER technology will also benefit from an upgrade this year. Following the Japanese principle of Kaizen – continuous improvement –the changes to the e-POWER system on Qashqai will deliver improvements to its emissions, efficiency and refinement, bringing the driving experience even closer to that of a full EV. Nearly 250,000 e-POWER equipped vehicles have been sold in Europe since its introduction.

Third generation JUKE to follow in FY26 as pure EV

Beyond 2025, Nissan’s engineers continue to develop the third generation of its JUKE compact crossover, which is scheduled for launch in FY2026 as an EV, based on the Hyper Punk concept car which was presented in October 2023 at the Japan Mobility Show.

Welsh business confidence jumps to eight-month high as firms plan to hire

WELSH business

confidence surged to its highest level in eight months in March, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank.

Confidence among companies in Wales rose by 27 points to 51%, up from 24% in February. Optimism about their own trading prospects increased by 25 points to 56%, while confidence in the wider economy climbed by 27 points to 45%.

In addition, a net balance of 33% of Welsh firms said they expect to increase staff levels over the next year – a 13-point rise from the previous month.

Looking ahead, businesses in Wales cited their main priorities for the next six months as investing in their workforce through training (53%), investing in sustainability initiatives (34%), and evolving their product or service offerings (32%).

The Business Barometer, which has surveyed 1,200 businesses monthly since 2002, provides early indicators of regional and national economic trends. The data for March was collected between the 3rd and 17th of the month, ahead of the Chancellor’s Spring Statement.

UK-WIDE OUTLOOK

Across the UK, overall business confidence remained steady at 49%, unchanged from February.

While confidence in individual trading prospects held firm at 57%, optimism in the wider economy dipped by one point to 40%. The West Midlands and London were the most optimistic regions, both recording 62%, followed by the North West at 59%.

SECTOR INSIGHTS

Retail was the standout

sector in March, with confidence rising seven points to 58% –the highest level seen since the pandemic. The increase reflected positive expectations for trading conditions in the coming months.

Manufacturing saw the biggest drop in confidence, falling 12 points to 39%, as concerns over supply chain disruptions deepened. Confidence among construction firms slipped to 48%, while the services sector also saw a slight decline, down to 47%.

LLOYDS: BUSINESSES FEELING BRIGHTER

Dave Atkinson, regional director for Wales at Lloyds Bank, said: “The changing of the seasons is also bringing a sunnier outlook for Welsh businesses.

“It’s particularly good to see firms so optimistic in their own prospects. As they look to capitalise on their confidence, we’ll be ready with our support to help them make the most of any opportunities ahead. This includes discounted lending to support investments in measures that improve environmental impact – something central to many Welsh firms’ growth plans.”

Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist at Lloyds Commercial Banking, added: “Business confidence remained steady this month, suggesting that UK companies may have been waiting to see the impact of government decisions at home and globally.

“Despite this, today’s data continues to reflect a positive growth trend in the UK economy. With confidence maintaining last month’s high, business leaders are optimistic, noting that investing in their development and workforce will position them well to seize future growth opportunities.”

Pembrokeshire joins cutting-edge recycling programme

PEMBROKESHIRE is at the forefront of a new recycling initiative that could transform how waste is tracked and processed in Wales.

Polytag has successfully integrated Plastic Detection Units at four Welsh Material Recycling Facilities (MRFs) — including one in Pembrokeshire — as part of its Ecotrace Programme. The other new locations are in Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey.

Polytag recycling technology photographed for Storm Communications in Conwy North Wales.

The technology, developed by Welsh firm Polytag, allows packaging to be scanned for invisible UV tags embedded in label artwork. This enables brands and retailers to pinpoint exactly when and where their plastic packaging is recycled, closing a major data gap in the recycling process.

Each year, the four Welsh MRFs handle a combined 146,000 tonnes of recyclable

material. The new detection units are expected to significantly enhance efficiency, with the sites currently operating at an average recycling rate of 66.5%.

The Pembrokeshire installation was delivered in partnership with another Welsh company, EBS, and funded through a £100,000 grant from the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) Centre of Excellence, supported by the Welsh Government.

Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, said: “Wales is already a leader in recycling, currently holding the UK’s highest average recycling rate at a very impressive 66.5%. Installing these four new Plastic Detection Units across the country takes this success even further.

“It will generate invaluable data on what is being recycled and when, empowering brands to take full responsibility for their packaging. As a Welsh-owned business, it’s especially rewarding to see our technology embraced and to help drive progress toward a truly circular economy.”

The four new sites in Wales join Re-Gen’s MRF in Newry (Northern Ireland) and Biffa’s facilities in Edmonton and Teesside in using Polytag’s technology.

Kate Williams, Innovation Programme Manager at SBRI Centre of Excellence, said: “This initiative is a valuable step in improving recycling data in Wales. Installing advanced tracking technology to promote a circular economy within our recycling streams is essential. We’re excited to witness the impact this collaboration with Polytag will have on sustainability

goals across the region.”

Polytag’s detection units scan and collect barcode-level data on individual products as they enter the recycling stream. This data can be used by brands to improve sustainability and by policymakers to shape greener waste strategies as Wales moves toward its net zero target by 2030.

For more information on Polytag’s work with regional and national brands, visit https:// polytag.io.

Let me know if you want it localised further, e.g. a Pembrokeshire council comment or specific location detail.

Wales surges ahead in marine energy revolution

WALES is rapidly becoming a powerhouse in marine renewable energy, with the sector seeing a surge in momentum ahead of the UK’s largest dedicated marine energy conference, MEW2025, set to take place in Cardiff this May.

The two-day event at the All Nations Centre (May 7–8) will bring together over 400 delegates, including developers, investors, policymakers and innovators, all working to harness the power of tides, waves, and floating offshore wind.

Marine Energy Wales (MEW), the organisation behind the event, has confirmed a packed programme of speakers and panels. The First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan MS, will deliver a keynote address on Day One, signalling the Welsh Government’s commitment to driving forward the green energy transition.

TIDAL POWER POTENTIAL RECOGNISED

The Severn Estuary Commission has this month published final recommendations backing the feasibility of tidal range energy in the Severn. The report calls for immediate government support to develop the industry, establish a commercial demonstration project, and unlock private investment through a clear financial framework.

The report recommends a public sector-led Project Delivery Vehicle and improved regional management to ensure environmental and commercial viability.

FLOATING WIND AND TIDAL TECH ON THE RISE

MEW2025’s programme will explore the cutting edge of floating offshore wind, as well as new technologies in tidal stream

energy. Sessions such as Turning the Tide: Scaling Tidal Energy in Wales Today and Floating Stepping Stones: Doing it for the Region will offer insights into commercialisation and scaling of Welsh marine renewables. Research and development also remains central. Projects such as META (Marine Energy Test Area) in Pembrokeshire continue to break ground, with sessions at the conference reflecting key R&D milestones and practical deployments.

A new Marine Energy Engagement Toolkit was launched at the Senedd on March 18, spearheaded by Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum and supported by MSs

including Sam Kurtz and Joyce Watson. The toolkit aims to empower communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond, ensuring that residents can meaningfully engage with the changes and opportunities brought by marine renewables.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES

By providing accessible information and creating space for dialogue, the initiative hopes to bridge the gap between developers and the communities they affect.

INVESTMENT ON THE HORIZON

The Crown Estate Act 2025, which recently received Royal Assent, grants new powers to borrow and invest up to £1.5 billion over 15 years. This could be a game-changer for marine energy in Wales, enabling strategic investment in technology, infrastructure and supply chains.

With additional commissioners joining The Crown Estate Board, the focus will be on delivering environmental, social, and financial value – a shift welcomed by the sector.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR WELSH INDUSTRY

The Empower Cymru conference this month saw Net Zero Industry Wales outline its vision for a Welsh chapter of the UK Industrial Strategy. The plan positions Wales as a cornerstone of the UK’s clean energy future, citing a strong pipeline of value-for-money projects ready to deliver.

Meanwhile, Morlais, the tidal stream energy project off Anglesey, has been shortlisted for a prestigious Green Energy Award in the Net Zero Developer category – another sign of the sector’s growing national significance.

FINAL CALL FOR ExHIBITORS AND SPONSORS

With limited space remaining, MEW2025 organisers are urging businesses and organisations to secure their place. Exhibition packages include full branding opportunities, event passes and speaking slots for major sponsors. Artwork must be submitted by April 17. Tickets are also still available for those looking to attend and connect with the growing network shaping the future of marine energy in Wales and across the UK.

New vision to reduce suicide deaths in Wales and to support those who self-harm

A BOLD new strategy aimed at reducing suicide rates and improving support for people who self-harm is being launched today by the Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sarah Murphy.

The Welsh Government’s 10-year Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Strategy focuses on creating a more compassionate approach to understanding and responding to suicide and self-harm. Drawing on the lived experiences of those affected, the strategy seeks to reduce stigma and foster an environment where people feel able to ask for help without fear or judgement.

To support this work, the Welsh Government is investing more than £2 million in the National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-harm at Swansea University, through Health and Care Research Wales. This marks a major step forward in deepening understanding of these complex issues.

The new strategy outlines six key priorities:

• Listening and learning –Building a robust evidence

base by listening to those with lived experience.

• Preventing – Addressing the underlying risk factors that can lead to suicide and selfharm.

• Empowering – Tackling stigma and encouraging open conversations.

• Supporting – Improving services for those who selfharm or experience suicidal thoughts.

• Equipping – Ensuring services across Wales can identify and support those at risk.

• Responding – Providing timely, compassionate, person-centred help after suspected suicides.

The strategy acknowledges that suicide and self-harm can affect anyone, but certain age and gender groups are more vulnerable. Suicide is most prevalent among men aged 30 to 55, while self-harm is more common in young women aged 15 to 19. These insights inform the strategy’s tailored approach to support.

It also highlights the link between self-harm and suicide, underlining the need to treat all incidents of self-harm with

seriousness, empathy, and care.

Minister Sarah Murphy said: “This ambitious strategy focuses on building understanding, prevention, and compassionate support for everyone affected by suicide and self-harm.

By working across government departments and with our partners, we’re tackling the root causes while ensuring immediate help is available to those who need it.

It’s through supporting and working with third sector organisations like the Samaritans that we will achieve the ambitions set out in our Suicide Prevention and SelfHarm Strategy.”

Joshua, who received support from the Samaritans after experiencing suicidal thoughts, said: “I see a generational issue where older men don’t speak about their mental health because they grew up in a time when it wasn’t discussed.

Nowadays, people are more open about mental health, which is great. But there are still boys and men my age who feel it’s too wimpy or embarrassing to talk about it. Even though the conversation is improving, that stigma still exists.”

The strategy builds on

recent progress made in Wales, including:

• The launch of a national advice service for those affected by suicide.

• New guidance for agencies supporting people bereaved by suicide.

• Improved access to mental health services through single points of contact for CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).

• The national rollout of the 111 press 2 urgent mental health helpline.

Information from the Real-Time Suspected Suicide Surveillance (RTSSS) system – which collects data from police forces – will be used alongside a lived experience framework to guide future policies and services.

The National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-harm has been appointed as an advisory body to the Welsh Government, and a dedicated National Suicide and Self-harm team has been established within the NHS Executive to drive delivery of the strategy across Wales.

Swiss clinic helped grieving West Wales mum to die in secret

A GRIEVING mother from West Wales ended her life in secret at a controversial assisted dying clinic in Switzerland — despite the clinic’s alleged promise to inform relatives before carrying out any such procedure.

Anne, 51, travelled to the Pegasos clinic near Basel in January, telling her family she was going on holiday. In reality, she intended to die — a decision her loved ones only discovered after receiving farewell letters posted from Switzerland.

The Pembrokeshire Herald has chosen not to release Anne’s surname in order to respect the family’s privacy.

Pegasos is already under scrutiny after a similar case in 2023, when 47-year-old Alistair Hamilton died without his family’s knowledge. Following that case, the clinic reportedly assured the public that it would always notify next of kin before proceeding with assisted deaths.

But Anne’s family say they were kept in the dark — a claim that has prompted an investigation by Dyfed-Powys Police. Her brother, John, told ITV News he had received no calls or messages from the clinic, despite Pegasos saying they had tried to reach him.

Anne, who was not terminally ill, is believed to have been suffering from severe depression following the death of her son. In one of her letters, she wrote: “I can’t keep going and get older and older without my son… This was my decision to go to Switzerland and be in peace.”

In another note addressed to her sister Delia, she said: “If you’re reading this, I am no longer here. I have thought about this long and hard and need to find [my son] and ask him some questions.”

Delia said she was left confused and heartbroken, unsure if Anne had

truly died. She contacted multiple Swiss clinics before finally hearing back from Pegasos several days later.

In an email, the clinic said: “Anne has chosen to die. She died gently and not alone. I hope her letters help you to accept this. All official papers and her urn will be sent to her brother John.”

Delia told ITV: “Anyone who loses a child probably wants to die and be with them. But with the right help, she could have got through it.”

The Pegasos clinic told ITV News that it does its best to ensure people they assist have informed their families.

A spokesperson said: “According to our protocols, we do the best of our abilities that persons we assist have informed their loved ones of their plans to die. Should we have reason to assume that no information has been provided to close family, we will refrain from proceeding without credible proof that they are aware.”

They added: “We understand that the assisted death of a loved person is a distressing time for the family. We are very sorry if Pegasos’ actions or communications have caused further distress to any affected family member at any time and thoroughly consider all concerns.”

The clinic also emphasised that since its founding in 2019, all its actions have been in accordance with Swiss law.

Assisted dying is legal in Switzerland for people of sound mind, regardless of whether they are terminally ill, provided they are not being coerced.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed they are working with the Swiss authorities, who say Anne died on 6 January.

A spokesperson for the force said it could “neither confirm nor deny whether a person is a suspect or person of interest” in the case.

Senedd supports ‘scores on the doors’ for care homes

THE SENEDD supported plans to introduce inspection ratings for care homes, with service providers set to be required to publish “scores on the doors”.

Care homes and domiciliary services, which support people in their homes, will receive one of four ratings: excellent; good; requires improvement;

or requires significant improvement.

Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) has been laying the groundwork for the reforms since 2019, including a pilot of “silent” unpublished ratings over the past two years.

The regulations, which apply to adult and children’s services, come into force on March 31, mandating the

publication of inspection ratings within premises and on a provider’s website.

Under the reforms, inspection ratings must be displayed conspicuously in a location accessible to service users and visitors “without delay” following an inspection report.

The ratings will apply to about 690 care homes and 450 domiciliary support providers in Wales, with the sector facing total one-off costs of £700,000 plus an extra £60,000 a year.

Also according to an impact assessment, Care Inspectorate Wales, which has been given almost £3.4m to date, will face recurring costs of £615,000 a year for additional staff.

Care homes will be able to appeal against a rating in an inspection report

and an offence of failure to display an inspection rating will be created, with a £2,500 fixed penalty.

A 12-week consultation on the proposals ended in October and Senedd Members unanimously backed the regulations on March 25.

Social care minister Dawn Bowden told the Senedd: “Inspection ratings matter because people matter and their care and support services matter.”

She added: “Ratings will encourage a culture of continuous improvement in which service providers are encouraged to look beyond compliance and ensure positive outcomes.”

Ms Bowden said ratings will showcase excellence as well as provide clarity for families seeking care and support, enabling them to compare quality and safety at a glance.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

SWarning issued as gender balance in next Senedd under threat

POLITICAL parties in Wales have been warned that gender representation in the Senedd could go backwards at the next election, unless decisive action is taken to ensure diversity among candidates.

New guidance published by the Welsh Government on Monday (Mar 31) encourages parties to improve representation through measures such as voluntary gender quotas and better monitoring of diversity data.

But campaigners have said the guidance does not go far enough—and could leave the door open to some parties failing to act.

The Electoral Reform Society Cymru (ERS Cymru) has warned that the dropping of legislation which would have made gender quotas mandatory poses a real risk to women’s representation at the next election, due in 2026.

The Senedd made global headlines in 2003 when it became the first parliament in the world to achieve gender parity, with half

of its members being women. However, that figure has since declined to 43 percent. With the number of Senedd seats set to rise to 96 next year, campaigners fear the proportion of female MSs could fall further.

The new guidance also includes recommendations to monitor and publish diversity data and to take steps to tackle abuse and harassment against candidates.

ERS Cymru Director Jess Blair said the responsibility now

rests with the political parties themselves.

She said: “Wales ws the first legislature anywhere in the world to achieve equal representation of women in 2003. This was an area where we led not only the UK but globally.

“Yet in recent years, it is disappointing to see that we have slipped back and now fall behind the Scottish Parliament in terms of female representation.“Equal representation of women should be a basic requirement of Welsh

democracy rather than an often-missed aspiration. This is something gender quotas would have enshrined in law, yet the Welsh Government dropped plans to legislate to make this a reality.

“As the guidance published today is voluntary, the responsibility of ensuring a gender-equal and diverse Senedd now falls squarely on the political parties and their selection processes.

“An expanded Senedd after the next election means there is an even greater onus on the political parties to ensure that the Senedd Siambr properly reflects the modern Wales it represents.

“A gender-equal and diverse Senedd will make better legislation that properly reflects the lived experience of all people in Wales. If political parties don’t grasp the nettle and ensure they implement these measures to improve the diversity of the next Senedd, it will be to the detriment of the Welsh electorate.”

Welsh Government’s tourism tax plans move closer with rates set to rise

PLANS to bring in a tourism tax cleared the first hurdle in the Senedd, with the Welsh Government set to raise the rate to £1.30 per night per person.

Senedd members voted in favour of the tourism tax bill following a debate on April 1 during which ministers announced plans to raise the rates to create an exemption for children.

If the bill completes its passage through the Welsh Parliament, £1.30 per person before VAT could be charged on overnight stays in hotels, B&Bs and selfcatering accommodation.

An estimated £264m would be raised if all councils chose to introduce the levy in the decade to 2035, against total costs of £313m to £576m, according to an impact assessment.

Mark Drakeford led the “stage-one” debate on the general principles of the bill, which would also establish a mandatory register of visitor accommodation providers.

Pointing out that visitor levies are common across the world, the finance secretary stressed councils would have an option rather than an obligation to bring in a levy.

The former first minister argued the levy – which he said would cost less than a sausage roll – will be simple,

sector accounting for around one in eight jobs.

straightforward and fair, with lower rates than in comparable destinations.

On calls for children to be exempt, Prof Drakeford said an amendment would exempt under-18s from the lower band, with the rates each rising by 5p from £1.25 and 75p.

“I must emphasise that any reduction in the broad base of the levy has to be made up by higher charges on those visits that remain in scope,” he said.

He told the Senedd a power for councils to charge a premium on the rates will be retained.

The Conservatives’ Sam Rowlands warned that tourism providers are deeply concerned about the proposed tax, with the

The shadow finance secretary said the Welsh economy can ill afford an annual £47.5m hit, urging ministers to “axe the tax” and opposing the “assault” on the tourism sector.

Mr Rowlands stressed that already under-pressure tourism providers pay into the system through VAT, national insurance, corporation tax and business rates.

While welcoming moves to exempt children from the lower rate, the former council leader raised concerns about education and voluntary organisations being hit by the tax.

His colleague Janet FinchSaunders described the tax plans as disgusting. “Shame on you,” she said, accusing

members on other benches of letting tourism businesses down.

She warned Wales could become a “no-go area” with tourists deterred by the tax, voicing concerns about projected costs of up to £576m over the next decade.

The tourism tax bill was introduced as part of the Welsh Government’s co-operation agreement with Plaid Cymru between 2021 and 2024.

Luke Fletcher, the party’s shadow economy secretary, said: “The reality is that the current way in which we do tourism isn’t sustainable in the long term.”

Pointing to a tourism tax introduced in Manchester in 2023, he told the Senedd: “Wales isn’t acting in isolation here but is moving in step with places both in and outside of the UK.”

His Plaid Cymru colleague Siân Gwenllian argued raising a small levy would improve the visitor experience and services for people living in an area all year round.

Senedd members voted 4015 in favour of the bill, with one abstention.

The bill now moves to stage two, detailed amendments in the finance committee, before a further amending stage in the Senedd chamber and a stagefour vote on the final version.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

NAHT Cymru tells politicians: Get ‘back to basics’ in supporting schools

WELSH politicians must abandon costly “vanity projects” such as changing the school year and instead help schools focus on the basics of teaching and learning, according to the school leaders’ union NAHT Cymru.

The call comes as the union launches its 2026 election manifesto at its annual conference in Cardiff today (Apr 2).

NAHT Cymru says it is giving parties early notice ahead of next year’s Senedd elections, urging them to listen to the needs of financially-stricken schools that are struggling to deliver for pupils amid rising pressures.

The manifesto sets out the key challenges facing Welsh schools and outlines what political parties must do to support teachers, school leaders and learners.

Laura Doel, the union’s Wales national secretary, and general secretary Paul Whiteman are addressing delegates at the Cornerstone venue in Cardiff. Other confirmed speakers include Education Secretary Lynne Neagle and Estyn Chief Inspector Owen Evans.

Ms Doel said: “We are urging politicians to get back to basics and help schools focus on what matters –teaching children and young people and preparing them for adulthood.

“At a time when many schools are struggling to make core budgets add up, they have increasingly been left to pick up the slack for under-resourced community services, supporting pupils facing issues from poverty to mental illhealth.

“Too much government time and energy has been wasted on vanity projects like toying with changes to the school year. Our message is clear – don’t overload schools with new initiatives unless you’re providing the support they need to do the basics well.”

A recent NAHT Cymru survey revealed that more than half of school leaders (53%) are predicting a budget deficit this academic year, with many being forced to cut essential services and staff, including teachers.

Key demands in the manifesto include:

• Fair funding: Address the findings

of the Welsh Government’s 2025 funding review, end the postcode lottery in school funding, and restore financial support for small and rural schools.

• Recruitment and retention: Restore teacher and leader pay to 2010 levels after real-terms cuts and fully fund pay rises so schools can afford them.

• Wraparound services: Support local authorities to rebuild vital services such as social care and mental health, ensuring schools are not left to fill the gap alone.

• Mental health: Invest in mental health support teams, school-based counselling, and creative therapies

in all education settings.

• Additional Learning Needs (ALN): Properly resource schools to meet the ALN Code or revise the code to reflect what is realistically achievable, and ensure ALN coordinators receive appropriate recognition and pay, as recommended by the Independent Welsh Pay Review Body.

• Workload reduction: Honour agreements made with unions to reduce staff workload and assess the impact of any new policies on staff pressures.

NAHT Cymru’s newly appointed president, Dafydd Jones, head teacher at Ysgol Melyd in Prestatyn, said: “Teachers and school leaders do not have sufficient funding, resources or support to focus on what matters most –teaching and supporting pupils.

“It’s time to trust the professionals, allow reforms time to bed in, and give schools the resources they need to thrive – not more political tinkering.”

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of NAHT, added: “Our school leaders in Wales and their teams are dedicated professionals who care deeply about providing the best education possible.

“But it often feels like they’re being asked to do it with one hand tied behind their backs. Their resilience is remarkable, but it’s becoming harder to sustain. We need a clear commitment from all political parties to properly fund and support schools.

Welsh public wants government to prioritise NHS

A NEW report has revealed that people in Wales want the government to prioritise the NHS, tackle the cost of living, and invest in infrastructure to drive economic growth.

The State of the State 2025, published by Deloitte in partnership with the think tank Reform, captures public and public sector views on priorities and challenges facing the UK. In Wales, the survey found that for the third year running, the top two public concerns remain the NHS and the cost of living crisis – both cited by 75% of respondents. Social care for the elderly and vulnerable followed at 48%.

Jobs and the economy (47%) and affordable housing (43%) were also high on the list of areas the Welsh public want to see improved. Infrastructure – including roads, railways and broadband – rose notably in concern, with 42% identifying it as a priority, up six percentage points from last year. When asked about what would most effectively drive future economic growth in Wales, respondents pointed to three key areas: improving national health (45%), boosting education and skills (44%), and investing in transport and connectivity infrastructure (39%).

Despite these priorities, the report found widespread pessimism about progress. Three-quarters of respondents said they expect the NHS to either worsen or remain the same, while 74% felt the same about infrastructure.

Public sector leaders interviewed for the report agreed that infrastructure investment will be vital for future growth. Council chief executives noted that transport developments in Wales had benefited from a clear vision and strong partnerships, though concerns remain about consistency and funding.

A lack of funding was identified by 66% of respondents as the biggest challenge facing public services in the

years ahead. More than half (55%) also highlighted a loss of trust in those services as a major concern.

While trust in the Welsh Government remains higher than in Westminster, Holyrood or Stormont, 63% of respondents said they had low confidence in its ability to deliver major projects on time and on budget. A similar number (61%) doubted it could deliver the outcomes the public want.

The public was divided over the future of public spending. While 31% supported higher taxes and more spending, 37% preferred lower taxes and reduced spending. However, nearly half (47%) expected higher taxes and spending regardless of preference.Deloitte’s interviews with senior public sector leaders in Wales also revealed long-term ambitions, including using technology to create frictionless services, promoting integrated transport, and embedding commercial thinking into government decision-making.

Dave Tansley, Deloitte’s senior partner for the South West and Wales, said: “The State of the State 2025 report shows the Welsh public remain

concerned about the cost of living and the NHS. But our survey also found heightened interest in the state of infrastructure compared to other parts of the UK, indicating the public recognises the need for connectivity as fundamental to Wales’s economic success.”

“Investing in infrastructure has direct benefits for jobs, housing, roads, and rail – and it’s what enables a more resilient economy in the long term.”

“With the 2026 Senedd election on the horizon, the challenge for the next administration will be balancing investment with constrained budgets.”

Ian Howse, senior partner for Wales at Deloitte, added: “Public sector leaders told us they want bold reform to create services that are more joinedup, more citizen-focused, and better at using technology.”

“Our research shows there is a growing need for a long-term vision – one that sets out what the Welsh government and its services can truly deliver for the people of Wales.”

“There’s a clear sense of urgency in government circles, and that may be a positive sign of momentum as the next election approaches.”

POSITIVELY LIBERAL

W ITH ANDREW LYE

week saw the Chancellor make her Spring Statement. Cuts to welfare has attracted the most criticism, including from some Labour MP’s.

The Liberal Democrats say that the DWP’s own impact assessment reveals that 150,000 family carers will lose out on their Carer’s Allowance as a result of the government’s welfare changes by 2029/30.

It comes on top of the 800,000 people who are losing out on Personal Independence Payments (PIP) by 2029/30. It means almost a million (950,000) disabled people and their carers are set to lose out in total on support due to the cuts to PIP.

The assessment also shows that carer’s benefits will be slashed by a total of £500 million by 2029/30 as a result of the welfare cuts.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

“These cuts will be a double whammy to the most vulnerable, hitting disabled people who cannot work while slashing support for the loved ones who care for them.

“Carers need more support, not less. Snatching away the little support these carers get will do nothing to help people into work; it will just put more pressure on already overstretched carers, social care and the NHS.

“The government is putting the big banks and gambling companies ahead of disabled people and carers. It is not just cruel, it is a false economy and I urge ministers to think again.”

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat Treasury Spokesperson Daisy Cooper MP said:

“The slashing of growth is a hammer blow

to the Chancellor’s economic credibility. But this Government is simply fiddling while Rome burns instead of fixing our trading relationship with Europe.

“The Chancellor must immediately launch negotiations for a new UK-EU customs union, to kickstart growth, boost small businesses, and secure the vital revenue that our public services desperately need.

“And the Government certainly must not cut taxes on US tech giants at Trump and Musk’s behest – especially when families across Britain face eyewatering cuts.”

This is on top of the latest poverty statistics showing that 28% of children, 23% of working-age adults and 11% of pensioners were in material deprivation in 2024.

Liberal Democrat Work and Pensions spokesperson Steve Darling MP said:

“The Government needs to take a long hard look at these statistics. It would be staggering if they can still countenance sending, by their own admission, hundreds of thousands more people into these desperate circumstances through their welfare cuts.

“We all share the Government’s ambition to bring the welfare bill down by getting more people into work but cutting support for those who need it to get into work or even those that cannot work is nonsensical.

“If the Government was serious about bringing down welfare spending it would get serious about fixing social care. Not waiting three years for a review that can be completed by the end of this year.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

NRW criticised over ‘very

little empathy’

on future of visitor centres

A SENEDD Member criticised Natural Resources Wales for showing “very little empathy and understanding” about people’s concerns on the future of visitor centres.

Labour’s Carolyn Thomas voiced concerns about Natural Resources Wales’ (NRW) handling of plans for its Nant yr Arian, Coed y Brenin and Ynyslas visitor centres.

Ms Thomas said: “I feel like it’s not been handled very well, there was very little communication and empathy with people, the communities involved.”

Calling for better engagement, she pressed Huw Irranca-Davies as the Deputy First Minister appeared before the Senedd’s climate committee for scrutiny on March 27.

Ms Thomas chairs the Senedd’s petitions committee which received more than one petition on the topic – with the most popular signed by more than 13,000 people

The north Walian said: “I was concerned as well about the understanding of Ynyslas … they were saying they are closing … the food and retail offer but it is actually a nature reserve.”

“They felt they struggled to get that across to NRW and when we questioned them, it felt like there was very little empathy

and understanding it in that.”

Mr Irranca-Davies replied: “I’m sure NRW will be hearing this as well. I do, just to give you that reassurance, have regular discussions with NRW and we’ve raised this matter of effective communication on what is, and what is not, happening.

“In terms of Ynyslas … I think there is an understanding that the staff within Ynyslas have probably gone above and beyond actually what they are contracted to do, so they’ve also offered advice, signposting, nature advice and so on.

“But there is no intention whatsoever to withdraw from the nature conservancy aspects, the biodiversity aspects – the role that they’re doing out there in the landscape.”

Mr Irranca-Davies, a former MP who served in Gordon Brown’s government, said NRW has decided to step back from the food, catering and retail side to focus on core responsibilities.

“But I think your point is well made,” he said. “The communication and the openness with local people who are really concerned about … the future of nature sites and … staff.”

Labour’s Julie Morgan, herself a former minister, was

similarly concerned.

She said: “I’d like to support what Carolyn has said … I’ve been approached from Ynyslas and there was a … feeling of no recognition of the actual work that they were doing….

“It just does seem an unsatisfactory situation.”

Mr Irranca-Davies replied: “It is the catering and retail side that they’re stepping back from and I have to say, in the financial constraints they’re under, that’s probably the right thing to do: to focus on NRW’s core roles.

“But in doing so, the sensitivity of dealing with local communities and … existing staff members is what they have to navigate.

“I don’t envy the role that they’ve gone through, neither do I envy staff who have been in the midst of this, but I would just encourage … as I’ve said to NRW directly: to keep engaging with local communities and staff as they transition here.”

Wales’ environment secretary told the committee he was hopeful about the opportunity for others to step in and provide catering and retail.

“I know that’s one of the added-value pieces for visitors and local people,” he said. “But their focus on conservation, biodiversity and natural processes will continue regardless.”

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Welsh ministers ’embarrassed’ over Crown Estate devolution

SENEDD members

criticised Labour’s “utterly embarrassing” position on the Crown Estate, with ministers in Cardiff Bay backing devolution while Westminster blocks reform.

Plaid Cymru’s Luke Fletcher said 75% of the public supports devolving powers over the Crown Estate, which owns much of the seabed around Wales and 50,000 acres of land.

The shadow economy secretary told the Senedd: “If I was a member of the Welsh Government, I would be both embarrassed and fuming right now.

“Here we are again, another debate on the Crown Estate, and we’ll see what we always see … Labour MSs getting up to voice their strong support for its devolution, only for them then to be undermined by Labour colleagues in Westminster.”

Mr Fletcher criticised Labour MPs for voting down a Plaid Cymru amendment to the crown estate bill, which called for its devolution, in February.

Pointing out that 17 of 22 councils have backed devolution, he said: “It’s quite unbelievable that Labour MPs in Wales voted down that amendment when it is their party’s policy.”

He argued the UK Government’s arguments against devolution do not stand up to scrutiny.

Mr Fletcher said: “They claim it would fragment the energy market and delay grid connectivity reform, but in reality the current system is already

the Crown Estate in Wales be transferred not to a Crown Estate Wales or under the control of this parliament and this government, but to the control of some foreign power.”

Plaid Cymru’s Cefin Campbell said more than £100,000 flows from councils in mid and west Wales to the coffers of the UK treasury and royal family every year.

Mr Campbell told the Senedd: “This debate comes at a time when the financial situation of our councils is at its worst in generations.

“For 15 years now, due to budget cuts under blue and red governments in Westminster, local authorities have been forced to cut public services and increase council tax….

BLUE VIEW

SAMUEL KURTz MS

The sun is shining, the beaches are once again filling up, and Pembrokeshire is starting to shake off the winter gloom. But as we look ahead to summer, there’s a growing sense of unease among those who rely on tourism for their livelihoods. With Oakwood Theme Park closing its doors and the looming introduction of a tourism tax, many are asking: is the Welsh Labour Government really supporting the tourism industry, or is it making life harder for businesses already struggling with rising costs?

And for those that say “Ah! A Tourism Tax is common in Europe!”. Yes, but they pay far less in VAT, and Venice, for example, introduced a Tourism Tax to deter visitors.

Tourism isn’t just about holidaymakers; it’s a pillar of Pembrokeshire’s economy. If Welsh Labour is serious about supporting the economy, it needs to listen to business owners, rethink the tourism tax, and focus on making Pembrokeshire, and Wales, a more attractive place to visit, not a more expensive one.

delaying projects.

“At least a Wales-run Crown Estate would have the ability to unlock new developments, set the terms of investment and ensure infrastructure constraints are tackled in Wales’ interest.”

He said funding for Scotland from Westminster was reduced by £10m as a result of devolution in 2017 but the revenue generated was £113m in 2023/24.

But Janet Finch-Saunders argued the Crown Estate should “absolutely not” be devolved to Wales due to the risk of market fragmentation.

The Conservative stated Wales and the UK lead the world on renewables, warning devolution risks making processes more bureaucratic and complicated.

She said: “Our time in this Welsh Parliament should be spent on tackling the real problems facing us here in Wales – not your constant obsession with further devolution.”

Labour’s Alun Davies said he did not understand the UK Government’s position, stressing the question of the devolution of the Crown Estate is deeply practical and philosophical.

Mr Davies read the debate in the House of Commons and was concerned by the response.

He told Senedd members: “You would have thought that the proposal was control of

“How on earth, therefore, is it possible to justify, in the age of austerity that we are facing, sending more than £105,000 over the border every year to the British Government and to one of the richest families in the UK, if not the world?

Mr Campbell added: “Either the Welsh [Labour] colleagues here in the Senedd are not very good at making the case to your Westminster colleagues, or they are just not listening. Which is it? Are you, basically, two parties pretending to be one?”

During the debate on March 25, economy secretary Rebecca Evans reiterated the Welsh Government’s position that the Crown Estate should be devolved.

She said: “I’ll just start with a newsflash really … and that’s that Welsh Labour has policy autonomy, so it is natural that there will be points at which we take a different view.”

Welcoming the appointment of a Crown Estate commissioner to represent Welsh interests, she stressed that devolution “will not happen overnight”.

Ms Evans told Senedd members: “Investor confidence in the political and policy landscape is essential to bring the scale of investment that we want to see to Wales. The Crown Estate has played a significant role in attracting international investment.”

The minister, who is responsible for energy and planning, said: “We will continue to press the UK Government…. There is no reason for Wales to be treated differently to

For decades, Oakwood has been one of Wales’ biggest tourist attractions, bringing in thousands of visitors each year. Its sudden closure is a major blow, not just for thrillseekers, but for the local economy. Jobs are lost, businesses that benefited from visitor footfall will suffer, and a key draw for Pembrokeshire is gone.

Oakwood’s parent company cited rising operational costs and declining visitor numbers as key reasons for shutting down. These are the same challenges faced by many tourism businesses across Wales, and yet, there’s little sign of meaningful intervention from the Welsh Government to help safeguard these industries.

Labour’s proposed tourism tax is another point of contention. The Welsh Government claims it will help manage the impact of tourism on local communities, but for business owners, it feels like another barrier to growth.

At a time when costs are rising and visitor numbers are uncertain, should we really be making it more expensive to visit Pembrokeshire? Many countries in Europe are investing in attracting tourists, yet Wales seems to be moving in the opposite direction, making itself a less appealing destination.

On top of all this, Labour’s new Jobs Tax, the National Insurance hike, will hit working people and businesses this week, leaving families £3,536 worse off over this Parliament. The costof-living challenge has already taken its toll, but Labour are making it worse. Energy bills are rising by £111, council tax is increasing by £109 on an average Band D property, water bills are going up by £123 and TV licences, phone bills, and car tax are all increasing.

For businesses, this means fewer customers spending money in shops, cafés, hotels, and restaurants. For working people, it means harder choices when it comes to affording holidays or even day trips. And yet, the government’s response has been to raise taxes, pile on more costs, and ignore the struggles of Wales’ tourism economy.

This week’s sunshine reminds us why people love coming to Pembrokeshire. But without serious action to support businesses, cut costs, and boost tourism, we risk pushing tourists, jobs, and investment out of Wales altogether.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTI c ES

PIc TURE OF THE WEEk!

USE THE LIBRARY OR LOSE IT

DEAR SIR,

THE Milford Towns Library is a wonderful asset within the Town. The Library is about to be closed or moved from the good facilities at Haven Headall are under threat.

The world of books is available to everyone, computers and audio books are in The Library, History, Travel and Sport is there for all.

An adventure awaiting children and adults, pensioners and toddlers — it can be a starting point of adventure, books on travel to exotic places from tropical islands and all evergreen forests, deserts and frozen wastes and adventure —the start

of a love of Books that “triggers” the imagination to read and learn. The power of the written word. We must use and promote our Library for the Citizens of Milford Haven.

Always remember:

-THE WRITTEN WORD IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD” Please support our Library

J.T. MORGAN, Senior Citizen HAKIN

MY COUNTRY, RIGHT OR WRONG

DEAR SIR,

There are 8 billion people on the planet, divided into 194 nations, each working to mould the mind of every child to become adults believing, ‘My country,

Right or Wrong.’, traditional, selfcentred, conservative Nationalist ethics, Brexit and Sovereignty, rejection of cooperation with foreigners.

So the nations divide into opposing groups, where Truth becomes the first casualty, on both sides, first in all forms of Media, Press, TV, Social Platforms, privately owned, a majority of adults and eventually, the developing minds of children, to see foreigners as mad villains, so different from ourselves.

When war breaks out, as an insanely inefficient mechanism by which to resolve these conflicting and contrary opinions, beyond my own, we have opposed each annual ceasefire, perhaps leading to discussion, while declaring that we are peacemakers, in my poisoned mind.

The consequence of all this is that many children are killed, who have not yet been pressed into my firm opinions, nor the

wicked beliefs of the enemy.

Could it be possible that adults who hold very fixed opinions that they themselves are intellectual giants, and know they are never wrong, yet may be prepared to set up group, international discussions of their differences, because of their certain knowledge, that children die, foreign ones and ours, if you think that makes a difference? That is a price too high.

The UK should know. Ever since the Battle of the Boyne or the Curse of Cromwell, 400 years ago, parents have preached hatred to their children, and still it burns.

All of us should learn that every parent and every Government, has a duty to be something superior to what they are, to create a different world, while there is breath in their bodies.

C N Westerman

St. DaviD’S Lifeboat Station oLD & new by wiLL HoRne

Death Notices

M R . M ALCOLM H ARCOURT G OODRIDGE

NEYLAND

T HE death occurred peacefully at Ty Olwen, Morrison, Swansea on Thursday 13th March of Mr. Malcolm Harcourt Goodridge, aged 78 years of Charles Street Neyland.

Devoted husband of Tracy, dearly loved father to Wendy, Anne-marie, Thomas, Kerry, Krystle, Daniel, Benjamin adored grandfather and a cherished great grandfather. Malcolm will be sadly missed by his extended family and friends.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday 10th April at 14:30 at St Clements church, Neyland, then Honeyborough cemetery.

Immediately following the service light refreshments will be served at Neyland Community hub to which you are all invited.

E LI z ABETH R UTH (S ONIA ) C AFFREY

Formerly of Haverfordwest

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family after a long illness, in Hengoed Court Nursing Home, Swansea on Wednesday 19th March, aged 73 years.

Much loved mother of Emma and son-in-law Paul, cherished sister of Helen and husband Pep. Proud granny of Thomas and Lucy. Treasured aunty and friend to many. Sonia will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts.

Funeral Service Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth Wednesday 16th April, 2025 12.15 p.m.

All are welcome.

Family flowers only, donations, if desired, towards Alzheimer’s Research UK https://www. alzheimersresearchuk.org/

Graham J Sullivan Funeral Directors, Ty Hedd Funeral Home, Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG.

G EORGE (P ETER ) W HEELER

Haverfordwest

Peter passed away peacefully on the 4th March aged 89 years.

Much loved husband to Joan, dad to the late Joanne, Christopher and Helen, grandad and great grandad, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

His funeral service will take place on Wednesday 9th April at 2.30pm in Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only, donation, if desired, can be made payable directly to Alzheimer’s Society UK.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

A DRIAN S IMPSON

Roch

The death occurred at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on 24th March of Mr Adrian Simpson, he was aged 69.

Adrian is survived by his wife Delyth, daughter Elin and granddaughter Grace.

The funeral service takes place on Thursday 24th April at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2.30pm.

There will be family flowers only, donations if desired, can be made payable to “The Injured Jockeys Fund” c/o Funeral Directors W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR or via www.rossitersfunerals. co.uk

PAULINE H ATHWAY

Angle

Mrs. Pauline Hathway of Middle Hill Farm, passed away peacefully on March 7th. aged 89 years.

The funeral will take place on Tuesday 8th. April with a service at St. David’s Church, Hundleton at

12.00. noon followed by interment in the Churchyard.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Pauline for Hundleton Churchyard Maintenance Fund may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

J ONATHAN PAUL S MITH

Hayscastle Cross

Peacefully on Thursday 20th March at Ty Cwm Gwendraeth, Jon of Hayscastle Cross aged 59 years.

Beloved husband of Jane, loving father and father-in-law of Amy and Stephen, treasured Gampy of Dexter and Ruby and a dear brother, brother-in-law, sonin-law and uncle.

Funeral service on Monday 7th April, at Woodstock Chapel at 11am followed by interment at Woodstock Cemetery.

Immediate family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Pembrokeshire Young Onset Dementia’ being kindly received by Anthony Griffiths of 28 Bro’r Dderwen, Clunderwen, Pembrokeshire, SA66 7NR (contactable on 07538 872729).

Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Fishguard. Tel: 01348 873250.

Main image for Jonathan Paul Smith

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Rally glory for local student Henri Cynwyl

HENRI CYNWYL, a first-year student at Pembrokeshire College, claimed an impressive win over the weekend, taking top spot in the third round of the F1000 British Junior Championship at the Kath Curzon Memorial Rally in Pembrey.

Henri, aged 16 and from Newcastle Emlyn, is now leading the championship standings, competing against junior rally drivers from across

the UK.

Dominating the event from start to finish, Henri crossed the line 12 seconds ahead of Scotland’s William Patterson, with fellow Scot Thomas Babb finishing third.

“I’m just really chuffed with the result and a huge thank you to my sponsors, family and friends. The support has been terrific,” said Henri, who

will head to Wigan in May for the fourth round of the championship.

The six-stage rally, organised by the Port Talbot Motor Club, presented challenges for the 19-strong Junior team, but Henri remained focused throughout with navigator Izzy Holman, from Buckinghamshire, by his side.

“I just kept it flat all day. It was a great stage event, and I’d like to thank the organisers

for doing a great job,” he said. Henri also praised Mark Williams and his team at Castle Motors for preparing the car and Daf Lloyd, his service crew, for ensuring everything ran smoothly on the day.

“It was also terrific to see one of my sponsors, Bob Morris from Granant Concrete, at the rally. He was out competing too but unfortunately had mechanical issues,” Henri added.

Hakin United advance to semi-finals of West Wales Cup

DAFEN WELFARE 1 – HAKIN UNITED 3

HAKIN United booked their place in the semi-finals of the West Wales Intermediate Cup with a confident 3-1 victory away at Dafen Welfare on Saturday.

The win sets up a mouthwatering semi-final encounter with St Josephs, who knocked out Goodwick United in the previous round.

It was captain Ryan Wilson who opened the scoring for the Vikings in the 18th minute, lashing home from the edge of the area after a neat lay-off from Shane Walsh.

Dafen levelled 20 minutes later through Elliott Jones, whose

superb 20-yard free-kick left the keeper rooted to the spot.

But the visitors responded in style. Liam Parks restored Hakin’s lead just before the break, racing onto a Jack Britton through ball and rifling a shot into the top corner.

Midway through the second half, Britton got on the scoresheet himself, heading in from close range after a goalmouth scramble to make it 3-1.

Dafen’s hopes of a comeback were dashed in stoppage time when Scott Evans received a second yellow card, leaving the home side down to ten men.

Hakin saw out the closing minutes with composure, sealing a deserved win and keeping their cup dreams alive.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

RUgBY: Narberth and Crymych suffer humbling defeats

WELSH PREMIERSHIP: MERTHYR 78–17 NARBERTH

IN the top tier of Welsh club rugby, The Otters were overwhelmed by a clinical Merthyr side who ran in 12 tries. Despite the heavy defeat, Narberth showed flashes of resilience, with second-row Will Blackburn scoring twice and flyhalf Jonathan Rogers adding a conversion.

There was a sliver of consolation for Narberth as fellow relegation rivals Bonymaen also lost, though the Swansea-based club managed to secure a valuable bonus point.

CHAMPIONSHIP WEST: LLANELLI WANdERERS 68–12 CRyMyCH

Crymych’s afternoon was equally difficult as they were soundly beaten by Llanelli Wanderers. The home side dominated from the outset, racking up a 32–0 lead by half-time. Despite tries from flanker Tom Taylor and hooker Lee Griffiths in the second half, Crymych were unable to mount a serious comeback.

Adding to their woes, relegation rivals Gowerton produced a big win over Maesteg Quins, piling further pressure on Crymych as the battle for survival intensifies.

Both Pembrokeshire clubs now face uphill tasks in the final weeks of the season as they fight to maintain their league status.

Llanybydder edge past Llangwm in spirited clash

IN

secured their

second win of the season, narrowly overcoming Llangwm in a match that showcased the grit and determination of two sides rooted near the bottom

of Division Four (West) A.

Despite difficult campaigns for both clubs—this season and in recent years—their continued commitment to the game is a testament to the enduring spirit of Welsh grassroots rugby. These are the clubs where many begin their journey, and their dedication week in, week out deserves recognition.

Although Llangwm outscored their opponents three tries to two, it was Llanybydder who emerged victorious, capitalising on key moments and punishing their hosts’ ill-discipline.

Llanybydder, who had already beaten The Wasps 24-20 earlier in the season, took a 13-5 lead into the break thanks to tries from Mathew Rollins and Osian Roberts, with Roberts also adding a penalty. Their defence, bolstered by several permit players, stood firm under pressure, with captain Jack Evans once again leading from the front.

Llangwm responded through Ethan Edwards, playing on permit from Amman United, who crossed for an unconverted try in the first half.

The Wasps looked brighter after the restart, scoring twice through Dan Richards—finishing a fine team move—and Josh Griffiths. One of the tries was converted by Breig Matthews. However, their inability to convert early pressure into points ultimately cost them. Dominating the first quarter, they camped on Llanybydder’s line but came away empty-handed—a factor that loomed large in the final outcome.

Two second-half penalties from Osian Roberts proved decisive, sealing a hard-earned 19-17 win for the visitors.

Llanybydder will now avoid finishing bottom of the table, while both teams can take pride in their performances in what has been a testing season.

LLANGWM 17 – LLANYBYDDER 19

A fiercely contested battle at Pill Parks, Llanybydder

Gymnasts excell

MILFORD HAVEN’S gymnasts delivered an outstanding performance at the Welsh Acrobatic Championships, claiming double gold and securing their place at the British Championships later this year.

Competing in Harley, North Wales, the talented duos of KaidyMay Forrest and Chloe Stanmore, along with Taya Jones and Maisie Stanmore, clinched victory in the Grade Four and Grade Five Women’s Pairs categories, respectively. Their impressive achievement has earned them a coveted spot at the British Championships, set to take place in May in Stoke.

Milford Haven Gymnastics Club, established in 1982, has a proud history of developing athletes who have gone on to represent Wales at various levels. This latest success adds to the club’s long-standing tradition of excellence in the sport.

With their sights now set on the national stage, the gymnasts will be looking to build on their success and make an impact at the British Championships.

PEmBROkESHIRE FIRST DIvISION ROUND-UP

Goodwick United seal third consecutive league title

Goodwick United 2 - Pennar Robins 0 GOODWICK United have been crowned league champions for the third season in a row, following a composed 2-0 victory over Pennar Robins.

Manager Chris O’Sullivan praised his side for getting “over the line” and is now urging them to complete the season unbeaten. Should they win their final two matches, Goodwick will have lost just once in three league campaigns—an extraordinary run that underlines their dominance in Pembrokeshire football.

After a tightly contested first half, the deadlock was broken three minutes after the restart. Will Haworth delivered a pinpoint cross that was met with a superb 12-yard volley from Matthew Delaney. The lead was doubled in the 68th minute when midfielder Rhys Jones curled a trademark free-kick into the bottom corner, sparking early title celebrations.

Goodwick’s dominance in recent seasons has been nothing short of remarkable. With just one league defeat in three years, they are now pushing to go down as one of the county’s all-time great sides.

MERLINS BRIDGE CRUISE AS MILFORD UNITED TURN ATTENTION TO CUP

Merlins Bridge 4 – Milford United 1

MERLINS Bridge made light work of struggling Milford United, sealing a comfortable win at the Pembrokeshire Sports Village to claim their eighth league victory of the season.

The Wizards took control late in the first half, with Jason Griffiths smashing

in a volley from Nathan Evans’ cross before Jordan Thomas added a second moments later, glancing in a Hayden Dimond free-kick.

Milford showed some resilience after the break and pulled one back on 63 minutes when Scott Reid slotted home following a clever assist from Joey Jones. But the hosts hit back almost immediately, with Nathan Evans finishing from close range. Substitute Ben Davies, returning from injury, completed the scoring in stoppage time after an unselfish square ball from Dimond.

Although league survival appears unlikely for The Robins, their attention now turns to the Senior Cup Final, where they face fierce rivals Hakin United in a bid to salvage their season with silverware.

DEVONALD’S LATE EQUALISER LIFTS ST ISHMAELS IN RELEGATION SCRAP

St Ishmaels 2 – Kilgetty 2

A LAST-GASP strike from captain Brennan Devonald kept St Ishmaels’ survival hopes alive, as they clawed back a vital point after trailing Kilgetty by two goals.

Teenager Mason Abbott looked to have secured all three points for the visitors with a goal in each half, putting Kilgetty firmly in control. But Tish weren’t done. They reduced the deficit when Kyle Marsh scored past his brother— Kilgetty goalkeeper Kurtis Marsh—in a family twist to the relegation drama.

Then, deep into stoppage time, Devonald pounced on a loose ball to fire home a dramatic equaliser, sparking jubilant scenes and securing what could

be a crucial point in their battle for safety. St Ishmaels are now three points clear of the drop zone, but must await other results to confirm their survival.

LEAHY DOUBLE PUSHES CAREW CLOSER TO

DANGER

Tenby 3 – Carew 1

TENBY delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat local rivals Carew, who now sit just two points above the relegation places.

Shaun Whitfield set up Jonty Bennett to open the scoring for the hosts in the 17th minute, but Carew responded swiftly. Former Tenby man Curtis Hurlow levelled matters after good work from Jerome Williams.

The second half, however, belonged to Joe Leahy. The Tenby striker struck in the 57th and 81st minutes with two composed finishes, sealing all three points for The Seasiders and leaving Carew looking nervously over their shoulders.

RELEGATION PICTURE:

ADVANTAGE TISH AS MILFORD TARGET CUP

GLORY

St Ishmaels’ dramatic draw leaves them in a stronger position in the fight for survival, three points clear of the relegation zone with just one game remaining. While their fate isn’t yet sealed, the late equaliser could prove decisive.

Milford United, meanwhile, face nearcertain relegation, but their attention is now firmly fixed on the Senior Cup Final. A win over Hakin United would offer a welcome silver lining to a difficult season and the chance to lift silverware against their greatest rivals.

mANDERWOOD PEmBROkESHIRE LEAgUE 2024/2025

Division

Kilgetty

Pennar

Division

Monkton

Division

Goodwick

Division

Johnston

Milford

Prendergast

Tenby

Division

Broad

v

Hundleton Reserves v St Clears Res

Lawrenny Res v Letterston Res

Narberth Reserves v Herbrandston Res

Goodwick United seal league title