The Pembrokeshire Herald 07/02/2025

TeeNAge gIRL ARReSTeD after violent assault • P3

Teenage girl arrested after violent assault at skate park

A FOURTEEN-year-old girl was arrested in Pembroke Dock on Monday evening after a video showing her assaulting a younger child at the town’s skate park circulated online.

The Herald has seen the video, which is deeply distressing. It shows a 12-year-old girl sitting on the floor while she is repeatedly hit, has her hair pulled, and is kicked.

At the end of the footage, the victim is left bleeding, shaken, and crying for help. She was later taken to hospital for treatment.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “A 14-year-old girl has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a 12-year-old girl at a skate park in Pembroke Dock.

“Another teenage girl, aged 13, has also been interviewed under caution and released under investigation.

“Officers responded to the reported assault at the skate park on Bush Street,

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Pembroke Dock, at approximately 5:00pm on January 21, 2025.

“The victim suffered injuries that required hospital treatment. She has since been discharged.

“Officers are aware that a video of the incident has been circulating on social media and would like to reassure the community that action is being taken.”

Police Sergeant Haydon Mathias described the assault as “particularly violent” and condemned the fact that it was recorded and shared online.

He said: “It is saddening that bystanders chose to record and circulate the attack rather than intervene.

“This has caused significant distress to the victim and her family. Incidents like this have no place in society, and we have taken appropriate action against those responsible.”

Crundale woman sentenced to community order for racial hatred posts

A 60-YEAR-OLD woman from Crundale near Haverfordwest has been sentenced for inciting racial hatred on X by calling for the mass deportation of Muslims from the UK.

Lucy Collins posted inflammatory messages on her X account, formerly known as Twitter, on June 3, 2024, after consuming alcohol.

“We must stand up to the Government and have a mass deportation,” she wrote. “We must knock down every mosque, we must burn every Koran, and we must ban Muslims from entering the UK.”

At Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, Crown Prosecutor Nia James described Collins’ actions as a hate crime, despite there being no specific victim.

“She posted comments on X which amounted to disturbing written material that could stir up racial hatred,” said Ms James.

However, Collins’ solicitor, Michael Kelleher, said her posts were prompted by fear of a possible terrorist attack.

“She had seen a post which frightened her, relating to Isis terrorists,” he said. “She read about beheadings

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and became scared.

“She got it into her head that terrorists might knock on her door, and she became very scared. In the cold light of day, you can say that’s not going to happen in Haverfordwest, but it can happen anywhere.”

Mr Kelleher added that Collins, of Greenwell Close, Crundale, had been drinking alcohol earlier that day.

“As a result, she lost some of her inhibitions,” he said. “She was reckless, but it never crossed her mind that racial hatred would be stirred up.”

Collins pleaded guilty to publishing written material to stir up racial hatred. She was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order, requiring her to complete 15 rehabilitation activity days to address her alcohol use. She was also fined £120 and ordered to pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs.

“I very much doubt we’ll see you in court again, as this has been a salutary experience for you,” said presiding magistrate Mary Smith.

Culture of fear exposed in damning fire service report

HAvERFORDwEsT ‘at the centre’ of Mid and west wales Fire service scandal

A DAMNING independent cultural review into Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has laid bare widespread bullying, harassment, and a culture of favouritism – issues long suspected at Haverfordwest Fire Station, which was at the heart of controversy following the dismissal of Watch Manager Phil Irving in 2024.

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The findings, published this month, confirm what many firefighters have been saying for years – that nepotism, intimidation, and a lack of accountability have created a toxic working environment across the service. The review follows a series of scandals, including Irving’s dismissal, which rocked Haverfordwest

Fire Station and raised major concerns about the culture within the service.

“OPERATiONAL bOYs’ CLUb” EXPOsED

The review describes MAWWFRS as an “operational boys’ club” – where personal connections with senior leaders, rather than skills or experience, dictate career progression. Staff reported that friendships with management led to

Reaction to report that uncovers bullying ‘lad’ culture

IN a statement issued following the Report’s publication, Mid and West Wales Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM responded: “Firstly, and most importantly, I would like to apologise unreservedly to any of my colleagues who have been subject to bullying, harassment or discrimination in any form. This is wholly unacceptable and does not align with the values and behaviours that we espouse or endorse as a Service.

“Secondly, I accept the findings and recommendations within the review which support my ambition to improve the culture of our service, which was one of my key aims when I was appointed as Chief Fire Officer. Whilst we have evidently made progress to address these issues it is equally clear that we need to do more to ensure that our staff feel safe, supported and valued.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service Fire Authority Chair Councillor Gwynfor Thomas praised Roger Thomas for his efforts to turn around the toxic culture within MAWWFR, adding: “Members of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority are saddened to read the findings of the independent culture review of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

“We are humbled by people’s courage in giving open, honest and challenging

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

feedback. Thanks to those who contributed, we can see the urgency with which we must act to tackle poor culture and behaviour where it exists.”

UNsURPRisiNG & DisTURbiNG FiNDiNGs

Jenny Rathbone MS, the Chair of the Welsh Parliament’s Equality & Social Justice Committee, said: “Following the publication of the Committee’s report “Sound the Alarm” in June last year, I am disturbed by the reports of bullying and lack of faith in leadership across both services. Unfortunately, I am not surprised as they mirror the problems disclosed by the Morris Report into South Wales Fire and Rescue Service almost exactly one year ago.

“It’s good that leaders of both North Wales and Mid & West Wales FRS have accepted the findings and apologised to their staff.

“However, the Welsh Government must now take radical steps to improve the governance structures at the top of all of Wales’s fire services.”

Gareth Tovy, the Fire Brigade Union’s executive council member for Wales, echoed Jenny Rathbone’s sentiments. Saying: “Fire services in Wales are in desperate need of lasting change at the top, and the Welsh government must listen to the voice of the frontline.

“We cannot expect the same leaderships who have presided over these problems to solve them – and the FBU is ready to play a leading role in transforming our service.”

Mr Tovey continued: “Senior leaders in Mid and West Wales continue to preside over a ‘boys club’’, resisting change and creating a culture of fear and mistrust. It is shocking and unacceptable that 10% of women have reported experiencing sexual harassment.

“Bullying and harassment continue to be widespread, experienced or witnessed by around half of survey respondents in both services.

“Firefighters must be able to trust that they will be protected from mistreatment at work, that processes are fair, and leaders are held to account.”

sERviCE NEEDs iMMEDiATE REFORM

Sioned Williams, the Plaid Cymru spokesperson on Social Justice, said:

Firefighters in action in Tenby Pic: Gareth Davies Photography

promotions and special treatment, while others faced discrimination or were pushed out for speaking up.

One firefighter told investigators: “Help from the old boys’ club means promotion for many operational personnel.”

Another stated: “There is a pernicious cliquey culture within the organisation. Favouritism and nepotism thrive – if you are friends with the right people, you are untouchable.”

These findings mirror concerns raised in 2021, when The Herald revealed serious complaints about bullying and mistreatment at Haverfordwest

“Plaid Cymru called for this inquiry, and it seems that we were right to do so. It’s devastating to see the same toxic culture rooted in these fire services, as was with the other service we heard from last year.

“A key issue here is the inaction of the Welsh Government over many years to reform the governance of fire and rescue services.

“What we’re seeing in the culture reviews are the damning consequences of Labour’s failure to deliver the reform and the detrimental effect that’s had on staff.

“Action must be taken to ensure that the individuals working in our fire services can provide the crucial service they do in a safe environment, free from this deeprooted and toxic behaviour.”

Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Equalities and Social Justice, Dr Altaf Hussain, demanded immediate action on the issues disclosed in the report.

Dr Hussain said: “The extent of bullying, harassment and discrimination within the fire service identified within the report is shocking.

“This behaviour is wholly unacceptable, and the courageous individuals who came forward must be commended. These brave individuals who serve our communities deserve respect, fairness, and support— not a toxic workplace.

“The Welsh Labour Government must ensure those who dedicate their lives to protecting others are safeguarded from

Fire Station. At the centre of those allegations was Watch Manager Phil Irving, who was accused of intimidating staff, creating a culture of fear, and forcing multiple colleagues to request transfers just to escape his leadership. Despite repeated complaints, it took years for MAWWFRS to take action, and it was only in 2024 that Irving was dismissed.

YEARs OF bULLYiNG iGNORED

The review found that bullying and harassment remain rampant, with 47% of staff experiencing it since 2021, and

inappropriate behaviour.”

“i EXPECT CLEAR AND DECisivE ACTiON”

A written statement from Jayne Bryant, the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, noted the report’s “concerning findings” and described them as “incredibly worrying behaviours which are unacceptable in any workplace.”

Ms Bryant sought to downplay the exceptional levels of toxicity within Wales’s emergency services by saying: “Similar concerns have been expressed by employees of the Fire and Rescue Services in other parts of Wales and across the UK.”

The Minister continued: “I have met with the Chairs of both Fire and Rescue Authorities and both Chief Fire Officers to discuss how they plan to address the report’s findings, and I am grateful for their positive engagement so far. During these meetings, I set out my expectation that clear and decisive action should be taken immediately to dismantle these damaging cultures and ensure staff feel safe and valued in their workplace.”

However, the Minister glossed over calls for urgent reform, adding: “I expect both Chairs and Chiefs to act urgently and purposefully in addressing the issues raised in the reports and support their

to be biased, unprofessional, and ineffective, with some managers protecting each other rather than enforcing proper standards.

This was evident in the handling of Phil Irving’s case. Despite numerous complaints and repeated concerns from colleagues at Haverfordwest Fire Station, it took years for leadership to act, leaving firefighters in a toxic working environment for far too long.

Even after Irving’s removal, firefighters remain sceptical that real change will happen.

One told The Herald: “People like him were allowed to thrive because the whole system is broken. Unless they fix leadership, it will happen again.”

Fire service pledges change – but is it too late?

In response to the report, Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas admitted the findings were serious, stating: “I accept the findings and recommendations within the review, which support my ambition to improve the culture of our service.”

over half (54%) witnessing it firsthand. However, despite the scale of the problem, most staff do not report it, fearing retaliation or career damage.

One employee stated: “Speaking up means you’ll be marked. It’s easier to keep your head down.”

Another added: “If you’re not in the right circles, it doesn’t matter how good you are – you won’t go anywhere.”

Leadership failures and a lack of accountability

The review heavily criticises senior management, describing a lack of accountability at every level. Disciplinary procedures were found

However, many remain unconvinced that MAWWFRS will follow through with genuine reform. The cultural issues are deep-rooted, and Haverfordwest Fire Station is just one example of a wider problem across Mid and West Wales.

While some believe that Irving’s dismissal was a step in the right direction, others argue it was too little, too late. The challenge now for MAWWFRS leadership is whether they will take real action – or whether this report, like so many before it, will simply gather dust while the same toxic culture continues.

staff. I will monitor the situation closely and urgently work to establish how best to achieve and sustain cultural change across the Fire and Rescue Service.”

Although the Welsh Government has firmly placed the onus of change upon the services and their authorities, the question remains open as to why such cultures grew and why nothing was done about them before. While institutional resistance to change and challenge is undeniable, ministers appear reluctant to address it

for fear of rocking the boat or attracting negative political blowback. While the Welsh Government controls the purse strings and imposes performance targets, it is reluctant to accept its oversight role for failings that happen on its watch. That approach is consistent across Wales’s public services. It allows the inference to be drawn that ministers are either being wilfully blind to issues within public services - in this instance, particularly emergency services - or are passively complicit in covering them up.

Sacked for bullying: Haverfordwest station manager Phil Irving

Chief Fire Officer: Roger Thomas

Labour’s Cuts to Education Jeopardise Wales’s Future

NATAsHA AsHGAR, the welsh Conservative shadow Education secretary, writes for The Herald.

Every student leaving school deserves a range of meaningful and fulfilling pathways -whether they’re entering the world of work or college, starting an apprenticeship, or heading to University. But in Wales, these opportunities are narrowing. Labour’s cuts to apprenticeships and funding for further and higher education are restricting the choices available to young people, leaving many without the support they need to thrive.

Over the last month, we have heard that Lampeter, Wales’s oldest University, will cease undergraduate teaching in September after 203 years.

Hot on the heels of the confirmation of Lampeter’s closure, we learnt that Cardiff University is planning to cut 400 jobs and close several courses, including nursing. This decision has been met with shock and disappointment from students currently studying and staff now concerned about their job security.

Ancient History, Modern Languages and Translation, Music, Religion and Theology and Nursing are among the courses currently facing an uncertain future at Cardiff University. While the scaling back of any course limits the choice of pupils looking to begin the journey to their ideal career, what stuck out most to me and many others is the decision to axe the nursing course.

Wales is already grappling with a recruitment crisis within its NHS, struggling to recruit and retain doctors and nurses. Therefore, the decision to effectively reduce the number of students studying to become nurses in Wales is hard to understand.

The decision amongst the

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healthcare organisations has been met with dismay from the Royal College of Nurses (RCN). The Executive Director said it has “the potential to threaten the pipeline of registered nurses into the largest health board in Wales and undermine efforts to address the critical staffing crisis in the NHS and social care.”

The Welsh Government must ensure there are no gaps in the ability to deliver fully qualified nurse practitioners to a health service that desperately needs them. Additionally,

Labour must be clear on what discussions they have had or plan with University Health Boards in the surrounding area regarding their capacity to pick up some of the slack.

The root cause of all of this is Labour’s decision to slash not just the higher education budget but the failure of their education policies, which have seen us having the lowest school standards of anywhere in the United Kingdom.

Not content with failing schools, Labour seems intent on making it difficult for higher education institutions. The Labour Chancellor’s recent decision to increase National

Insurance contributions for employers will affect businesses across Wales, including universities.

Labour’s National Insurance hike has piled additional pressure on an already struggling higher education sector.

Labour’s Minister for Higher Education admitted recently in the Senedd that their decision to increase tuition fees will merely offset the national insurance increases. It’s clear that no matter who you are, we’re all picking up the tab for Labour’s tax hikes.

Even before Labour’s NI increase, universities were already grappling with a deficit of £100m, yet no action has been taken to address this black hole. This lack of support is jeopardising the future of our higher education institutions and those who depend on them for employment and education.

Cardiff University is the largest in Wales, but with other Universities facing similar financial difficulties, I fear this could be the tip of the iceberg. I sincerely hope that we do not see these decisions extrapolated across Welsh Universities, with pupils’ already limited choices dwindling to a select few.

There is already a brain drain occurring in Wales, with many skilled and qualified young people leaving for better opportunities elsewhere. Taking away vital university courses will only exacerbate the situation, stifling growth in Wales and hindering an economy already on life support due to Labour’s policy decisions.

After 26 years of Labour failure in education, it’s clear that only the Welsh Conservatives have the solutions to fix these deep-rooted problems and secure a brighter future for Wales.

Help shape flood prevention plans in Pembrokeshire

PEMbROKEsHiRE COUNTY

COUNCiL is seeking public feedback on how it manages flood risk across the County.

The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 requires Local Authorities to publish their local flood risk management strategy and flood risk management plans and request feedback from local residents.

A public consultation will help identify local knowledge about floodprone areas, historical flooding events, and community-specific vulnerabilities.

Local residents and stakeholders can often possess unique insights about their areas that can contribute to the development of an effective flood strategy.

The consultation will allow the public to understand the rationale behind proposed measures, the potential impacts, and the overall strategy.

It will also provide information regarding flood protection measures, early warning systems, emergency response plans, and evacuation procedures.

By increasing public awareness, communities become better prepared and more resilient to floods.

More details of the consultation is available online.

You can give your views by completing the online response form. If you would like a paper copy please call our Customer Contact Centre on 01437 764551 or email

Please complete the survey by Monday 17th March.

Jon

Natasha Asghar Ms, is the welsh Conservative Member of the senedd for south wales East and is the shadow Cabinet secretary for Education.

Net-zero Wales and the generation game

This week’s episode of *Panorama* explored the significant clean energy projects creating tension across britain.

“Rewiring Britain: The Race to Go Green” examined the UK’s efforts to create a greener, more sustainable energy infrastructure. It highlighted the challenges and opportunities associated with reducing carbon emissions, increasing renewable energy sources, and modernizing the national grid.

The programme incidentally highlighted an unusual set of data about Wales’s contribution of net-zero energy to the UK’s National Grid.

BBC Reporter Justin Rowlatt visited the headquarters of the National Energy System Operator (NESO). NESO ensures that Great Britain has the necessary energy by matching supply with demand every second of every day.It also monitors the contributions made to the UK energy grid from net-zero sources.

In a cutaway shot establishing that just over half of the UK’s energy came from net-zero sources.

The UK is divided into six distribution network licence areas, as shown in the screenshot accompanying this article.

What draws the eye, at least Welsh eyes, is the amount of net-zero energy provided by the area covering South Wales and South West England.

That amount was zero on the day the BBC attended NESO HQ. Given the number of large green energy infrastructure projects in South Wales, this seems astonishing. It is even more astonishing when one considers the large green energy projects across the South West of England.

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An examination of the data underlying the chart shows why that is the case: almost three-quarters of ALL energy generated in South Wales comes from fossil fuels. That means that all of the netzero energy generated in South Wales is consumed in the region and is not exported as surplus to the UK Grid.

To check our conclusion we asked NESO a series of questions, the answers to which confirmed that South Wales (the figures for North Wales are in the North West area on the screenshot), was not a net exporter of green energy to the grid.

When we checked earlier this week, we confirmed that was still the case.

Those data appear to run a coach and horses through claims that Wales is leading the way in green energy. As it stands, South Wales isn’t even generating enough net-zero energy to power homes and businesses across South Wales. As planned green energy projects, such as

the controversial plan to erect a chain of pylons and windfarms across rural Wales, focus on energy production for homes and businesses outside Wales, the benefits to the South Wales economy of supposedly “green” infrastructure projects appear marginal.

The UK government asserts that building new pylons, solar plants, wind turbines, and electricity substations is essential for achieving its ambitious goal of decarbonizing the country’s electricity by 2030. To expedite these projects and stimulate the economy, the government plans to “streamline” the planning process. However, many protesters contend that this approach risks overlooking their objections.

While some praise the UK government’s reforms, which aim to accelerate energy projects, there has also been significant criticism. Many stakeholders—including environmental groups, local communities, and planning experts—express concerns about the erosion of local democracy and community input. Critics warn that these

proposed changes may undermine local decision-making by prioritizing national targets over community interests and feedback.

Despite the necessity of green energy projects for reducing carbon emissions, there are worries that large developments, such as solar farms and wind turbines, could negatively impact local ecosystems and biodiversity if not carefully managed.

Furthermore, the government faces criticism for not adequately addressing how to balance the need for renewable energy with other priorities, including housing development and infrastructure. The use of agricultural land for solar farms or bioenergy crops raises additional concerns about food security and the loss of productive farmland.

Large-scale renewable projects, especially wind turbines, can significantly alter landscapes. This has led to resistance from residents and conservationists who value the rural areas’ visual and cultural heritage. For example, in Lincolnshire, proposed solar farms are set to cover an area larger than Greater Manchester. Critics argue that the government’s focus on large-scale projects overlooks the potential benefits of smaller, communityled initiatives and energy efficiency measures, which could also play a crucial role in decarbonization.

The drive to achieve net zero, or at least energy self-sufficiency and energy security, is admirable in intent. However, marrying ambitions and outputs with the views of those whose homes, land, and lives will be most affected by the infrastructure and structures needed to support them is as far away as ever.

Kurtz and Tufnell push in different directions for NHS reform

THE sTATE of healthcare in Pembrokeshire has come under renewed scrutiny as two local politicians—samuel Kurtz Ms and Henry Tufnell MP—take different approaches to tackling NHs waiting times and service challenges in the region.

KURTz: NHs DELAYs ARE DAMAGiNG THE ECONOMY

Samuel Kurtz, Conservative Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, has demanded urgent action from the Welsh Government to address recordbreaking NHS waiting lists. He has warned that the lengthy delays are not only devastating for patients but also damaging Wales’ economy.

Speaking outside the Senedd, Mr. Kurtz said: “It is completely unacceptable that so many people are left waiting for essential treatment for such prolonged periods. One of my constituents was forced to give up full-time work after enduring an unreasonably long wait for a hip replacement on the NHS. Sadly, this is not an isolated case—it is happening across Wales.”

Figures show that over 20,000 people in Wales have been waiting more than two years for treatment, while more than 170,000 have waited over a year. Kurtz argues that this is not only a healthcare crisis but an economic one, with a quarter of those classed as economically inactive being unable to work due to long-term health conditions.

“The Welsh Government, which has been responsible for health policy for 25 years, must act now,” Kurtz added. “People need treatment so they can return to good health and contribute to our workforce. Wales cannot afford for this situation to become the norm.”

TUFNELL: HOLDiNG THE HEALTH bOARD TO ACCOUNT

Meanwhile, Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid and South

Pembrokeshire, has been pressing for improvements by engaging directly with the Hywel Dda University Health Board (HDUHB). This week, he held a long-awaited meeting with the Chief Executive of the Health Board at Withybush Hospital, following months of campaigning on healthcare issues.

Tufnell had previously presented findings from a survey of over 1,000 Pembrokeshire residents, revealing serious concerns over service availability, waiting times, and patient outcomes. He has pushed HDUHB to acknowledge these failings and commit to improvements.

“I am pleased that this was a productive meeting, and the Chief Executive recognised the scale of the challenges we are facing,” Mr. Tufnell said. “He has agreed that there must be a culture shift within management and has committed to continued dialogue as we work towards a coherent plan to address the crisis.”

Tufnell has also submitted a Freedom of Information request to HDUHB, demanding data on waiting times and service provision to ensure transparency and accountability.

“Healthcare is the number one priority for my constituents, and I am determined to secure better outcomes in Pembrokeshire,” he added. “This meeting is a positive first step, but there is much more

work to be done.”

DiFFERENT APPROACHEs TO THE sAME CRisis

While Kurtz and Tufnell are both addressing Pembrokeshire’s healthcare problems, they are taking distinct approaches. Kurtz is focusing on pressuring the Welsh Government to cut waiting lists, while Tufnell is working directly with the local health board to push for reform.

Although they are not directly clashing, their methods highlight the political divide on how best to tackle the NHS crisis in Wales. As Pembrokeshire residents continue to struggle with delayed treatments and overburdened services, the success of their efforts remains to be seen.

Sam Kurtz on the floor in the Senedd

Different approach: MP Tufnell has tough questions for the local health board

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Neyland Town Council meeting descends in to chaos

Public calls for mayor’s resignation as councillors clash as clerks mother seeks co-option

A MEETING of Neyland Town Council descended into chaos on Monday (Feb 3), with members of the public shouting for the mayor to resign and councillors yelling at each other. The mayor, who was chairing the meeting, lost complete control as tensions boiled over.

Adding to the disorder, the Council Clerk was notably absent, despite being expected to attend. Mayor Peter Hay claimed she had received an upsetting email earlier that day and was too distressed to turn up. However, this explanation was met with scepticism from several councillors, with Cllr David Devauden openly accusing the Mayor of dishonesty. In her absence, a substitute Clerk was present to oversee proceedings.

The Herald understands that a police patrol car was seen in the area before the meeting, following concerns raised about an unusually high public turnout.

At the centre of the controversy was a dispute over the co-option of a new councillor. One of those present was the Clerk’s mother, Donna Matthews, who was expecting to be appointed to the council under agenda item 13. However, tensions escalated when it emerged that two members of the public had also applied for the position—applications that, if considered, would have required an election rather than an automatic cooption.

One of the applicants, Mr Hackett, was in the meeting and directly challenged

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the Mayor’s claim that no applications had been received. He interjected, saying: “Excuse me, Mr Chairman, I applied,” contradicting Hay’s assertion that he was unaware of the emails. This led to accusations that the Clerk had deliberately ignored the applications to favour her mother’s appointment.

Cllr David Devauden, the most vocal during the meeting, spoke to The Herald on Wednesday. He said: “During the meeting, I called the Mayor a pathological liar three times because I could tell he was lying about the reason the Clerk wasn’t there, and about the missing emails from applicants who wanted to be co-opted.”

Summing up the meeting, he said: “The meeting was a success as we managed to stop the co-option of the Clerk’s mother. The electorate should be given the chance to serve on the council. Donna Matthews works at The Hub, and if co-opted, it would cause a conflict of interest in any case.”

The chaotic scenes prompted Cllr Brian Rothero to leave just ten minutes into the meeting, saying he “couldn’t cope with the chaos” and needed to get away. County Cllr Paul Miller, who does not usually attend Neyland Town Council meetings, was also present but left around the same time.

Meanwhile, Cllr Devauden is currently under investigation by the Public Services Ombudsman following complaints filed against him by Mayor Peter Hay, Clerk Libby Matthews, and Cllr Ashleigh

Phelan. The Herald has been shown a full arch-lever file of “evidence” that has been submitted to the Ombudsman. Devauden confirmed that he is in the process of preparing his defence.

This latest controversy follows

previous concerns about transparency and governance within Neyland Town Council.

Critics argue that the handling of the situation was unprofessional, with calls for accountability over the Clerk’s role and working arrangements.

Email leak reveals deepening crisis in Neyland Town Council

THE TURMOiL within Neyland Town Council has taken a dramatic turn following the leak of an explosive email chain exposing bitter infighting, accusations of bullying, and allegations of misconduct at the highest levels of local government. The emails, exchanged between councillors and the town clerk, reveal a toxic atmosphere of hostility and personal attacks, further calling into question the ability of the council to function effectively.

sHOCKiNG ACCUsATiONs EMERGE

The leaked emails showcase a series of heated exchanges between Cllr Steve Thomas, Town Clerk Libby Matthews, and other members of the council, including Cllrs Brian Rothero and Ellen Phelan. In one of the most explosive messages, Matthews directly accuses Thomas of causing “trouble and destruction wherever you go,” and calls his actions “selfish and disgusting.”

The emails also contain deeply personal attacks, with one councillor being accused of narcissism and others being labelled as bullies. Matthews, in an emotionally charged statement, alleges that the behaviour of certain councillors

was so damaging that it led to a period of severe personal distress. She claims she was subjected to relentless criticism and had considered resigning as a result of the hostile environment.

ALLEGATiONs OF MOCKERY AND iNTiMiDATiON

The controversy escalates further with allegations from Cllr Thomas that he has been mocked. He accuses Cllr Mike Harry of making derogatory comments and another councillor of saying they would be “happy to see him jump off the Cleddau Bridge.” These claims, if proven, could have serious consequences for those involved.

Cllr Thomas also claims that repeated complaints about mistreatment have been ignored, further intensifying concerns about governance within the council. In one email, he argues that the misuse of council social media to target individuals has exacerbated the toxic culture, accusing the leadership of abusing its position of power.

bATTLE OvER LEGiTiMACY AND POwER

Another core issue exposed in the emails is the battle over council procedures and the legitimacy of recent meetings.

Cllrs Rothero and Thomas insist that previous Extraordinary Meetings were called lawfully, while Matthews and her allies dismiss them as invalid. The emails reveal a power struggle over who has the authority to set the agenda and whether certain councillors are being deliberately shut out of decision-making.

In one particularly scathing email, Matthews refuses to acknowledge Cllr Thomas as a legitimate member of the council, stating, “I am not your clerk. I will not be forced into contact with my abusers anymore.” Such a statement highlights the severity of the fractures within the council and raises concerns over how governance is being handled in Neyland.

THE iMPACT ON NEYLAND REsiDENTs

With the ongoing disputes consuming the council, residents of Neyland are left wondering whether their representatives are capable of focusing on local issues. The email chain suggests that council meetings have become battlegrounds for personal vendettas rather than forums for

addressing community needs.

The financial struggles of Neyland CIC, a community interest company that has reportedly lost £82,000, were mentioned in the exchanges but appear to have been sidelined by the ongoing personal feuds. The legitimacy of upcoming council meetings, including the scheduled Ordinary Meeting on February 3, is also in question as tensions continue to escalate.

CALLs FOR iNTERvENTiON

As the email scandal unfolds, there are increasing calls for an external investigation into Neyland Town Council’s operations. Some residents and councillors are demanding that the Pembrokeshire County Council Monitoring Officer step in to assess whether governance rules have been broken and if any members should face disciplinary action.

One thing is clear—Neyland Town Council is in crisis. The leaked emails have lifted the lid on an institution plagued by division, hostility, and a total breakdown in communication. Whether the council can recover from this latest scandal remains to be seen, but the damage to its reputation may take years to repair.

Tom Sinclair

Cllr David Devauden is under investigation by The Ombudsman, but says the allegations have been made up for political reasons (Image: Herald)

Arrest made following community outrage

DYFED-POwYs POLiCE have confirmed that a 60-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of engaging in sexual communication with a child. The arrest follows widespread community outrage and a protest held last night (Feb 1) in Pembroke Dock.

The man, whose identity has not been formally released by authorities, has been released on bail pending further enquiries. The arrest is understood to be linked to allegations involving inappropriate messages sent to a 14-year-old girl, which had sparked significant concern among local residents.

A protest organised on Upper Park Street drew a large crowd of demonstrators demanding action against the accused individual and

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calling for better safeguards to protect children in the community. The organisers of the event expressed relief at the arrest but emphasised the importance of seeing justice served.

“This is a step in the right direction,” one protester told The Herald. “We’ve been deeply concerned about the safety of our children, and we’re grateful the police are taking this matter seriously.”

Dyfed-Powys Police have urged the public to allow the investigation to proceed and reminded residents to avoid speculation on social media that could jeopardise the case.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation develops.

Haverfordwest woman remanded in custody for assault

A wOMAN accused of assaulting another female local resident has been remanded in custody ahead of her trial.

Sara Moane, 34, of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on January 30 for a further case management hearing. The court heard that Moane allegedly

assaulted a woman on December 27, 2024, causing actual bodily harm.

The charge falls under section 47 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861.

District Judge Layton presided over the hearing, where Moana’s custody status was reviewed.

Prosecutor Linda Baker argued that

the defendant should remain in custody due to the nature and seriousness of the offence, her previous record, and the potential risk of interference with witnesses.

The custody time limit for Moane’s case is set to expire on February 24, 2025.

However, she is remanded in

custody until her trial, which is scheduled for February 20, 2025, at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court.

The hearing is expected to last 20 minutes and will take place in Courtroom 01. If convicted, Moane could face significant penalties for the assault.

Man in court for stealing Stella large packs of lager from shops

A MiLFORD HAvEN man has admitted stealing of stella lager from town centre stores on two separate occasions.

CCTV cameras showed Liam Roberts walking into the Premier Stores, Milford Haven, on June 22 and the CK Store on August 3.

On both occasions he was seen walking out carrying a crate of Stella lager, and made no attempts to pay. He also stole two white baguettes from the CK Store.

This week, appearing via a video link from HM Swansea Prison where he is serving a custodial sentence for

a previous conviction, Roberts, 32, pleaded guilty to two charges of theft. His solicitor, Tom Lloyd, said that during his time in prison, Roberts has had a complete detoxification from alcohol, and has worked in various prison departments.

“As a result, he’s very much looking forward to his release later this week,” he said.

Roberts, of Marble Hall Road, Milford Haven, was fined £80 and ordered to pay a total of £32.49 compensation to Premier and CK Stores. He must also pay £85 court costs and a £32 surcharge.

Jailed after refusing to provide police with a blood test for analysis

A MAN described by his solicitor as ‘very vulnerable’ has been sentenced to 26 weeks in custody after breaching two suspended prison sentences in just two months.

Jamie Wilksinson was brought before magistrates on Tuesday morning after refusing to provide police with a blood test for analysis. He was arrested on his birthday –Monday, February 2 – after officers suspected he’d crashed a white BMW at Portfield Gate, Haverfordwest.

“Police received reports of a single

vehicle collision, where a white BMW had collided with a stone wall at the entrance to a caravan park,” said Crown Prosecutor, Nia James.

Two males were seen running away from the vehicle, one of whom was later identified by officers as Jamie Wilkinson.

“There was blood in the motor vehicle and blood on the defendant when he was arrested,” said Nia James. “But when police asked him to provide a specimen, suspecting that he was the driver, he refused.”

The Crown said that on January

21, Wilkinson was dealt a suspended prison sentence after admitting an identical offence of refusing to provide a blood specimen following a suspected road accident. He was also in breach of a suspended prison sentence imposed in December 2024.

Wilkinson was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“It’s very disappointing to see him here today as he has high level autism and ADHD, and is a very vulnerable young man,” he said.

“All these issues are contributing to

his offending behaviour, and I request the shortest sentence possible. Custody is going to be very difficult for him and I have huge concerns about what will happen to him when he’s in prison, amongst far greater offenders than himself. The implications on him are going to be huge.”

Jamie Wilkinson, of North Court, Haverfordwest, was sentenced to 26 weeks in custody. He was disqualified from driving for 60 months and was ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Andrew RT Davies: Senior officer pay in Welsh county councils ‘out of control’

ANDREw RT DAviEs has criticised senior council officer pay in Wales as “out of control” amid what he describes as a “council tax crisis.”

Writing in the Glamorgan Star, Davies said: “In some councils, there are salaries that even outstrip the Prime Minister’s pay packet. That’s indefensible.

“In 2024, the TaxPayers’ Alliance

found that 140 council employees in Wales were receiving more than £100,000 in total remuneration in the previous financial year. Ten of these were in the Vale of Glamorgan.”

Senior council officers in Pembrokeshire County Council, who are non-elected officials, receive salaries distinct from those of elected members.

FiGUREs iNDiCATE THAT:

• The average chief officer salary in Pembrokeshire County Council is £107,262.

• The median chief officer salary is £104,686.

• The pay multiple between the average chief officer salary and the lowest full-time equivalent (FTE) salary is 4.8.

• The lowest FTE salary in the council is £27,366.

• The average salary for all full-time equivalent employees in the council is £27,301.

this morning,

“There is a council tax crisis in Wales, with many town halls bringing forward inflation-busting rises in their draft budgets.

“Of course, Welsh Government funding to councils isn’t up to scratch, but senior council officer pay is completely out of control.

“We need to see these massive pay packets cut back before any more pressure is put on hardworking taxpayers.”

COUNCiL TAX iNCREAsEs ACROss wALEs

Several Welsh councils have proposed significant council tax hikes for the 2025-26 financial year. One authority has proposed an 8.9 percent increase, alongside £12.3 million in savings as part of its draft budget.

Understanding senior officer remuneration

Council pay policies are guided by frameworks such as the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales, which sets the range and level of payments for various council roles.

For the 2024-25 period, the Panel outlined specific salaries for basic, senior, civic, and presiding members of principal councils. Individual councils also publish their pay policy statements, detailing remuneration for senior positions.

For example, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s 2024-25 pay policy indicates that corporate directors earn between £125,025 and £138,695 per year, while heads of service (Band A) receive between £95,900 and £106,334.

sENiOR OFFiCER PAY iN PEMbROKEsHiRE

• The median salary for all full-time equivalent employees is £23,893.

For other officer roles, indicative figures show:

• A commissioning officer earns an average yearly salary of approximately £27,041, around 21 percent below the national average for this role.

• Salaries in Pembrokeshire County Council range from £17,842 per year for a catering assistant to £60,894 per year for a high school teacher.

These figures may not reflect the most current salaries, but they provide insight into the pay structure for Pembrokeshire County Council officers.

Balancing fair compensation and fiscal responsibility

While concerns about high salaries are valid, it is essential to recognise the responsibilities shouldered by senior council officers. Managing substantial budgets, overseeing essential public services, and ensuring effective governance require skilled professionals.

Competitive salaries are often necessary to attract and retain individuals with the expertise needed for these demanding roles. However, in the context of proposed council tax increases and economic challenges, councils must balance fair compensation with fiscal responsibility.

Transparent pay policies and regular reviews can help ensure remuneration reflects the demands of these positions while addressing public concerns over excessive salaries. As discussions continue, stakeholders must weigh the complexities of public sector pay, seeking solutions that uphold both the integrity of local government and the trust of taxpayers.

Speaking

Andrew RT Davies MS, Senedd Member for South Wales Central and former Welsh Conservative leader, said:

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Haverfordwest’s decline now international news

HAvERFORDwEsT’s economic struggles have made international headlines, with Chinese state media outlet CGTN highlighting the town’s deteriorating High street in a recent report on bank closures in the UK.

The article, titled Bank branch closures: A growing concern for small towns in the UK, sheds light on the widespread impact of financial institutions shutting their doors in rural and smaller urban communities. The report specifically mentions Haverfordwest as an example of a town grappling with the loss of banking services, resulting in a further decline of its High Street.

CGTN reports: “Once a bustling market town, Haverfordwest has seen a steady exodus of businesses in recent years, accelerated by the closure of key financial institutions. With fewer in-person banking options available, residents—particularly the elderly and those without access to digital banking—find themselves struggling to manage their finances.”

CGTN featured the story on its rolling news channel

bANK CLOsUREs wORsENiNG DECLiNE

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The closure of major bank branches has left residents without easy access to cash services, forcing many to travel further afield. The CGTN article highlights that this trend is not unique to Haverfordwest, with similar issues affecting towns across the UK. However, the town’s challenges are now being scrutinised on a global scale, raising concerns about the long-term viability of its High Street.

Councillor Thomas Tudor, who has been vocal about the state of the town centre, told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “For years, we’ve been warning that the loss of essential services like banking would have a devastating effect on Haverfordwest. Now, the issue has gone beyond local and national concerns—it’s being reported on by international media. That should be a wake-up call to policymakers.”

CALL FOR ACTiON

Local businesses have echoed concerns about the town’s declining footfall, with many blaming high business rates, online competition,

and the disappearance of crucial services like banking. Independent shop owners fear that without intervention, Haverfordwest’s High Street will continue to wither.

The CGTN article concludes: “Without a clear strategy to revitalise small towns like Haverfordwest, their decline may soon become irreversible.

Communities rely on local institutions, and their absence leaves an economic and social void that is difficult

As Haverfordwest finds itself in the international spotlight, the question remains: will this attention finally spur action, or is it already too late?

The full CGTN report can be read here.

to fill.”

Man charged after cannabis farm raid

POLiCE have seized cannabis plants worth an estimated £380,000 following a raid on a property in Carmarthen.

Officers executed a warrant at an address on Old Llangunnor Road yesterday (Feb 4), uncovering a largescale cannabis cultivation operation. A total of 394 plants were seized from the premises, with police estimating their street value to be approximately £380,000.

A man, identified as 32-year-old Nurdin Hoxha, was arrested at the scene and later charged with the production of

a controlled Class B drug—cannabis.

Hoxha, believed to Albanian, was remanded in custody and appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court this morning (Feb 5).

Following this latest raid, a police spokesperson they committed to tackling illegal drug production and the organised crime linked to it.

Investigations are ongoing, and officers have urged anyone with information regarding drug-related activity in their community to contact the police on 101.

Girl, 14, guilty of attempted murder in school stabbing

A 14-YEAR-OLD girl who

guilty of attempted murder.

Fiona Elias, Liz Hopkin, and a student were hospitalised after the attack at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in April last year.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, denied three counts of attempted murder but admitted carrying out the stabbings.

After hearing a week of evidence and reviewing CCTV footage, a jury at Swansea Crown Court reached its verdict.

PLANNED ATTACK

The court was told the girl had brought a weapon to school every day. On the day of the attack, she took her father’s multi-tool knife from her pocket and first targeted Ms Elias.

Student witnesses said the girl had spoken of her intention to stab Ms Elias and “do something stupid” that would lead to her expulsion.

During the attack, the teenager was heard shouting, “I’m going to kill you,” before turning on Ms Hopkin, whom she did not know.

Both teachers later told police they believed they were going to die.

PUPiL ALsO TARGETED

Following a “stand-off,” the girl moved to another part of the school, where she ran towards a pupil with the knife, shouting, “I’m going to kill you,” before stabbing them.

She was eventually restrained by teacher Darrel Campbell and later arrested.

Sentencing is expected at a later date.

Man arrested in Pembrokeshire for attempted online grooming of young girl

A CLARbEsTON ROAD man was arrested on Monday (Jan 27) for the attempted online grooming of a 14-year-old girl.

The suspect is accused of engaging in graphic sexual conversations with who he thought was a minor, and sending explicit images of himself to someone he reasonably thought was underage.

The defendant, who we will not name until he is formally charged, encouraged the victim to perform sexual acts using a hairbrush handle, falsely claiming his sister engaged in similar behavior “so it would be okay”.

The suspect’s actions were uncovered through the efforts of a decoy and members of a pedophile hunting group.

The authorities have recently reminded parents and guardians to monitor their children’s online activities and educate them about internet safety.

Police say enforcement continues to work diligently to apprehend individuals who exploit children online, although they have not yet commented on this latest arrest.

“Excellent work by Grace Decoy and Solar at Saving Children’s Futures” was the comment by admins on “The Underworld” Facebook page which regularly logs those arrested for such alleged crimes.

A comment has been requested from the police

stabbed two teachers and a pupil at a Carmarthenshire school has been found

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Police officer accused of making sexual comments to women

A POLICE officer from Pembrokeshire has been accused of making degrading sexual comments to women he met while on duty and turning up at their homes uninvited, a court has heard.

Luke Silver, 33, of Freshwater East Road, Lamphey, is a serving police constable with Gwent Police. He is alleged to have asked women if they “liked sex,” when they “last had sex,” and told one of them she had “big boobs.” It is also claimed he visited women’s homes while off duty, with one complainant describing him as “a creepy police officer.”

A trial at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday (Feb 4) heard that Silver subjected the alleged victims to “sexually explicit and unwanted comments” which left them “upset and distressed.”

PRETENDED TO bE A GAs MAN

The allegations surfaced on July 4, 2022, after one woman reported Silver turning up at her home in Cwmbran two days earlier. Prosecutor Roger Griffiths told the court that Silver had finished work when he arrived at the woman’s address wearing a dark top. Claiming to be a “gas man” from housing group Pobl, he asked to use her toilet.

Once inside, he allegedly went upstairs, used the toilet, then sat in her living room, engaging in inappropriate sexual conversation. The woman claims he asked when she “last had sex,” if she “enjoyed sex,” and requested to see a tattoo on an intimate part of her body. He also allegedly asked if he could “pop in for a cup of tea” when in the area and inquired if she had a boyfriend.

When she asked him to leave, Silver is said to have requested a hug, which she refused. The woman later

recognised him as the officer who had driven her home a year earlier, during which he allegedly turned off his police radio and asked her inappropriate sexual questions, including what sexual positions she liked. He is also accused of saving his phone number in her mobile.

sECOND wOMAN iNsTALLED RiNG DOORbELL OUT OF FEAR

Following advice from Women’s Aid, the woman reported the incident to the police, leading to Silver’s arrest on July 5. He claimed he had visited her

Driver caught over limit after parking 4×4 in Saundersfoot

wHEN 48-year-old motorist

Joanne sanders parked her 4×4 in the centre of saundersfoot in the early hours of January 11, she was apprehended by police officers who requested her to carry out a roadside breath test.

And as a result of the reading, Sanders was this week brought before magistrates where she pleaded guilty to driving over the legal drink-drive limit.

This week the Haverfordwest bench was told that police officers watched Sanders drive her Diahatsu Terios through Wogan Terrace and on into Cambrian Place just before 1am on January 11.

“They saw the lights of the vehicle turn off, and the police officers pulled in behind,” said Crown Prosecutor Nia James.

“They spoke to the driver [Joanne Sanders] who smelt strongly of

intoxicants and her speech was somewhat slurred.”

A roadside breath test proved positive while subsequent breath tests at the police station showed she had 42 mcg of alcohol in her system. The legal limit is 35.

Sanders, of Colborn Street, Nottingham, pleaded guilty to the offence. Choosing to be legally unrepresented, she said that the incident was the culmination of a spate of bad luck.

“I’d been going through a lot of things,” she said. “I’d just lost my home, my car, my job and I’d split up with my partner of 26 years. I’ve lost everything, and I’m very sorry for what I’ve done.”

Sanders was disqualified from driving for 14 months. She was fined £135 and ordered to pay £100 court costs and a £54 surcharge.

between him and a woman who had previously reported a domestic violence incident. The court heard that Silver made “explicit sexual comments” about the size of her breasts and asked about her sexual preferences while collecting a witness statement.

The woman said she became so “scared” of his behaviour that she installed a Ring doorbell camera. She later withdrew her domestic violence complaint to prevent Silver from attending her home. However, he is alleged to have visited her off duty, continuing to make unwanted sexual remarks, asking if she liked sex and when she last had it. In voicemails to a friend, the woman repeatedly described him as “a creepy police officer.”

ACCUsED OF MisUsiNG POLiCE sYsTEM

home because he and his partner were looking to get a cat.

Investigators later examined Silver’s work phone, uncovering messages

The court also heard that Silver allegedly accessed a police log related to the first complainant on July 1, just a day before visiting her home. Silver denies three counts of corrupt or improper use of police power or privileges and three counts of causing a computer to perform a function to secure or enable unauthorised access to a programme or data.

The trial continues.

Double first shout for two Fishguard RNLI volunteers

Two Fishguard RNLi volunteers experienced their first service launch as small motor vessel lost propulsion Crew were paged at 2.35pm on Saturday 1 February with the request from HM Coastguard to launch the charity’s D class inshore lifeboat Edward Arthur Richardson.

The tasking was to assist a small rigid inflatable boat (RIB) which was experiencing loss of propulsion being pushed towards the North breakwater by the prevailing winds.

With the casualty vessel visible within a few hundred metres from the station the volunteer crew launched and were almost immediately alongside the vessel. A risk assessment was made, and it was determined the safest course of action would be to tow the vessel to shore, removing the casualties to safety and preventing the vessel itself from becoming a hazard to other vessels in the port, including the allweather lifeboat. An alongside tow was established and vessel assisted into the pen adjacent to the lifeboat station.

Whilst it was one of the shortest launches for Fishguard RNLI it allowed two station volunteers to get the experience of their first service launch.

Cathy who joined the crew last year and passed out as a Launch Authority, while having already completed some uneventful periods on duty, this time experienced her first tasking request for a launch.

gather information to provide a report back to RNLI Headquarters in Poole. It was also the first service launch for trainee inshore lifeboat crew member Rhodri who also joined last year, and on completion of training requirements to be safe to go on service was issued with his pager, and has been waiting for that first shout.

Only a few hours before, Rhodri, amongst other volunteers had been out training, practicing the skills which would be put to use for real later that day.

Fishguard RNLI volunteer trainee inshore lifeboat crew member Rhodri Pugh-Dungey, said: ‘Having your pager go off for the first time definitely gets the adrenaline flowing as you have no idea what you are going to be faced with. Thankfully, all of the training provided by the RNLI had thoroughly prepared me for the situation we encountered. Fortunately we were able to assist the casualty vessel and both crew members, bringing them back to safety.

The crew on-board were experienced and had the correct equipment including lifejackets and had a handheld VHF to request assistance.

Launch authorities are the first point of contact for HM Coastguard when a lifeboat is requested, and will authorise the launch, brief the helm or coxswain on the situation and will

I would highly recommend that other members of the community reach out to the station if they wish to volunteer, providing a service to the public is a very rewarding feeling.’

Port leaders meet Bishop of St Davids

LAsT wEEK, the CEO of the Port of Milford Haven, Tom sawyer, along with Assistant Harbourmaster vTs brian stewart and Dockmaster & Assistant Harbourmaster David Lockwood, met with bishop Dorrien, the bishop of st Davids, to discuss the Port’s role in the local community.

The meeting covered the Port’s contribution to local employment, economic development, and community

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engagement. The discussion also highlighted the Port’s ongoing commitment to supporting seafarers, with Brian and David co-chairing the Mission to Seafarers committee in Milford Haven.

A special thank you was extended to Father Andrew of St Katharine’s and St Peter’s for arranging the visit.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Police announce amnesty for owners of Top Venting Blank Firers

DYFED-POwYs POLiCE is joining forces across the UK in holding a four-week firearms amnesty for Turkish manufactured top-venting blank firers (TvbFs) branded as bLOw, CEONiC iss, EKOL and RETAY, which are now illegal to possess following testing by the National Crime Agency.

While gun crime in the UK remains lowest in the world, following the concerns raised over these four specific types of TVBFs and their ability to be converted into firearms with the ability to fire live ammunition, The National Police Chiefs’ Council Criminal Use of Firearms Lead, has agreed with Chief Constables that an amnesty will run from Monday 3 February to Friday 28 February 2025, enabling you to safely dispose of your firearm.

Following the amnesty, anyone in possession of any of the four types of Turkish top-venting blank firer (TVBF) could be subject to prosecution and up to 10 years imprisonment.

Inspector Fencott-Price of DyfedPowys Police said: “Whilst people will have purchased these believing they were legal for their intended use, it is important you are aware of the changes in the law rendering them a prohibited firearm.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

We understand that people will have purchased these legally, however they are now no longer to be kept in your possession and we encourage you to take part in this four-week amnesty.

In their legal state, they are designed to discharge only blank cartridges, and are sold with 50 per cent of their visible surface painted in bright colours to help them stand our as non-viable firearms.

Unfortunately, though, they are appealing to criminals and offenders who convert them, changing them from their legal state and since 2021, UK law enforcement, have recovered more than 800 of the guns in criminal circumstances.

We want as many Turkish TopVenting Blank Firers (TVBF) as possible to be handed in. Individuals or organisations surrendering the firearm during the amnesty period will not be prosecuted for the possession of a prohibited weapon and if you wish you can do so anonymously.

“We encourage anyone who may own the TBVFs to take part in this national amnesty, and hand them in

Beggars Reach Hotel changes hands again

bURTON’s beggars Reach Hotel has been sold for the second time in a year.

The 30-room hotel, set in seven acres overlooking the River Cleddau, was bought early in 2024 but was quickly put back on the market due to the owner’s “unforeseen personal circumstances.”

Listed for £950,000 last autumn, the hotel attracted a swift sale. It boasts en-suite bedrooms, a spacious restaurant, a three-sided bar, function spaces, and planning permission for 20 more rooms and a leisure complex.

to one of our chosen police stations below before 28 February 2025, to help stop them getting into the wrong hands in the future.”

Our chosen locations for the amnesty are:

Carmarthenshire: Ammanford, Carmarthen and Llanelli Police Stations

Pembrokeshire: Haverfordwest Police Station

Ceredigion: Aberystwyth and Cardigan Police Stations

You can visit the stations between the hours of 8am-4pm Monday to Friday. Those who wish to take part in the amnesty are reminded to transport them responsibly.

If you can not travel to one of the locations during the amnesty, you can call us on 101, where we can discuss this with you to ensure you can take part.

If you are ever in doubt, we urge you to make contact with us.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Christie & Co handled both sales. Their senior hotel agent, Sam Roberts, said: “It was a pleasure to sell Beggars Reach for the second time, and we wish the new owners every success.”Funding for the purchase was secured through Christie Finance, with consultant Tamara Ryan describing the buyers as an “experienced local business partnership with big ambitions for the hotel’s future.”

Powys: Brecon, Llandrindod Wells and Newtown Police Stations

Ambulance delays leave Pembrokeshire patients waiting hours

EMERGENCY REsPONsE TiMEs

UNDER EvEN MORE sTRAiN

PATiENTs across wales are facing dangerously long delays as ambulances queue for hours outside A&E departments, with new figures showing an average wait time of nearly two hours for handovers in 2024.

Data obtained by The Herald reveals that more than 23,000 ambulances were stuck outside emergency units for at least four hours last year, while nearly 73,000 endured waits of over an hour—an 18% rise on 2023 and the highest recorded level to date.

The Welsh Ambulance Trust has admitted the situation is unsustainable, blaming it on “sustained and welldocumented pressures across the entire NHS in Wales.” The problem is particularly severe in Swansea Bay, where Morriston Hospital reported average handover times exceeding three hours and nine minutes.

Ambulances stuck, patients suffer

When an ambulance arrives at A&E, paramedics are supposed to transfer patients into hospital care within 15 minutes. However, the reality is far different, with official figures showing that in December alone, more than 25,000 hours were ‘lost’ due to excessive waiting times.

The crisis hit a breaking point on 30 December, when the Welsh Ambulance Service declared a critical incident—a rare move—because over half its vehicles were gridlocked outside hospitals, unable to respond to new emergency calls.

“We deeply regret the impact these delays have on our patients and their families,” said Lee Brooks, Executive Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service. “This is not the standard of service we want to provide.”

Pembrokeshire patients at risk

While much of the focus has been

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on Swansea and Cardiff, patients in Pembrokeshire are not immune to the chaos. With Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest already under strain following the downgrading of its A&E services, concerns are growing

that West Wales patients are left increasingly vulnerable.

“We see ambulances stacked up outside hospitals, unable to get back on the road,” said a paramedic who wished to remain anonymous. “That means people in Pembrokeshire suffering strokes or heart attacks could be left waiting far too long for help.”

Even ‘red calls’—the most urgent

emergencies, including cardiac arrests—are facing challenges. In December, only 47.6% of these lifethreatening calls were responded to within the target eight-minute window.

HOsPiTALs sTRUGGLiNG TO COPE

Health officials insist they are working to improve the situation, but a key problem remains the lack of available hospital beds. Many emergency departments simply do not have room to admit new patients, leading to a backlog that begins outside in the ambulance queue.

“In some hospitals, one in five beds is occupied by patients who are medically fit to leave but have nowhere to go due to the lack of social care support,” said Darren Hughes of the Welsh NHS Confederation.

Local NHS managers insist they are trying to speed up discharges to free up hospital space, but the knock-on effect of delays is affecting emergency services across Wales.

wHAT NEXT?

With handover delays now at record levels and no quick fix in sight, health bosses are being urged to rethink how emergency services operate.

“We don’t believe that just adding more ambulances is the answer,” Mr Brooks said. “We need to use the skills of our people differently, ensuring patients get the right care or advice before they even need an ambulance.”

The public is also being urged to think before dialling 999, using services like NHS 111 for less urgent issues to ease the burden on emergency crews.

However, for those in Pembrokeshire who rely on fast emergency response times, the reality remains bleak. As the NHS struggles to cope, the people of West Wales can only hope that help arrives before it’s too late.

Milford Haven Town Council launches new community noticeboard

MiLFORD HAvEN TOwN COUNCiL is encouraging residents to take advantage of its new Community Noticeboard feature on the council’s website.

The online noticeboard, accessible at milfordhaven-tc.gov.wales/community, allows individuals and groups to share local announcements, events, and important updates.

Fiona Galliford, secretary of Milford Haven Town Council, is inviting community members to submit notices for publication. Anyone wishing to post an announcement can contact her at admin@milfordhaven-tc.gov.wales or call 01646 692505.

For further updates, residents can also follow the town council on Facebook at facebook.com/ milfordhaventowncouncil.

Family appeals for help as eight-year-old battles cancer

A MiLFORD HAvEN family is seeking community support after receiving devastating news that their eight-year-old daughter, Darcie, has been diagnosed with cancer. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by family friend stacey Roberts to help parents Andrew and Laura Duncan cover travel expenses for Darcie’s treatment in Cardiff, ensuring they can stay by her side while managing responsibilities at home.

The fundraiser, which has already raised over £2,300 from 70 donations, aims to alleviate the financial burden of frequent hospital visits. One of the largest contributions so far, £1,000, came from Lincolnshire Competitions, while Stacey Roberts herself made the

first donation of £20.

In her heartfelt appeal, Stacey said: “I am absolutely gutted to be writing this but it is with great sadness that I am about to inform you all that two very close friends to me have been given the heart-wrenching news that their eight-year-old daughter, the beautiful little Darcie, has been unfortunately diagnosed with cancer. Please guys, let’s raise enough money to help this loving family out.”

The GoFundMe page continues to accept donations, with community members rallying around the Duncan family during this difficult time.

To donate and support the family, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ please-help-raise-funds-to-help-thisfamily-with-travel-cost

Businesses selling single-use vapes warned of impending ban

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ANYONE selling single-use vapes is reminded that from 1st June 2025 it will be illegal to do so.

It will also be illegal to offer to sell or have in your possessing for sale all singleuse or ‘disposable’ vapes – whether online or in a shop and if they contain nicotine or not.

Businesses will have until the 1st June 2025 to sell any remaining stock and prepare for the ban coming in to force.

Reusable vapes, those that can be recharged and refilled, are not affected by

the ban.

The UK Government is introducing the ban as part of its commitment to tackle environmental concerns and the rise in young people taking up vaping.

Single use vapes are typically discarded as general waste or littered, rather than recycled. Even those that are sent to recycling facilities, the process of recycling is slow and difficult.

Littering spoils communities, introduces harmful substances into the soil, rivers and streams, and causes harm to biodiversity.

The lithium ion batteries used can also present a fire risk.

Figures show that the number of

children and young people taking up vaping continues to rise and disposable vapes are the product of choice for most children who vape. It is hoped the ban will curb the rise of young people taking up vaping.

For all ages the long term health impacts of vaping are unknown, although withdrawal symptoms from nicotine addiction is known to cause anxiety, trouble concentrating and headaches.

Retailers are reminded it is illegal to sell nicotine vapes to anyone under 18 years of age. It is also an offence for an adult to buy a nicotine vape on behalf of someone under 18.

Welsh Government pledges £25m to fix potholes and resurface roads

THE wELsH GOvERNMENT has announced an additional £25 million to repair roads and prevent around 30,000 potholes and other defects across the country.

The funding, revealed by Transport Secretary Ken Skates, will allow for an extra 100km of Welsh roads to be resurfaced in the next financial year, addressing thousands of existing potholes.

The Welsh Government says it has spent more than £81 million on road resurfacing since 2021, with total investment expected to rise to £118 million by 2026.

Transport Secretary Ken Skates said: “The people of Wales have told us again and again that they want us to fix our roads, and so I’m delighted to announce today more funding to prevent 30,000 potholes and fix thousands more of existing ones.

“This is only possible because of the substantial funding settlement from the UK Government, and because of the refocusing by Eluned

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Morgan towards the priorities of the people of Wales.”

The announcement follows First Minister Eluned Morgan’s summer listening tour, during which improving road conditions was identified as a key priority.

The Welsh Government has criticised opposition parties for failing to support the additional investment. Skates added: “The Conservatives pretend to be on the side of motorists. Plaid Cymru are mysteriously quiet on the issue, hoping you won’t notice. If they believe in connecting communities, like this Welsh Labour Government does, they’ll vote for £25 million for potholes in the Budget.”

The funding boost comes as road conditions remain a significant concern for motorists, with local authorities facing increasing pressure to repair deteriorating infrastructure.

National Lottery Awards £100,000 to Pathways to Empowerment Project

THE NATiONAL LOTTERY Community Fund has this week confirmed that they will fund £100,000 of PATH’s most ambitious project yet.

PATH – Pembrokeshire Action for The Homeless – is Pembrokeshire’s leading homelessness charity.

The Pathways to Empowerment: Digital, Literacy and Numeracy Upskilling project is the natural evolution of PATH’s Numeracy Project.

Until now, the Numeracy Project has been SPF funded and has helped over 100 people across Pembrokeshire in the last year upskill in all areas of mathematics, which has enabled them to manage their money, pay their bills, and stay out of debt.

All of these things help reduce the risk of homelessness, which is the overall aim of the project.

In addition to this, the project has also been hugely successful in improving the overall wellbeing of the participants, with mental health counselling, tenancy support and much more being available at each session.

Learners have made friendships, built up their confidence, and some have even become volunteers on the project itself.

The success of the project was evident in August 2024 when the Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, visited a session in Haverfordwest.

“It’s not just the numeracy, but the social interaction, the confidence… you can see firsthand the incredible work that’s going on here,” she said during her visit.

With the SPF funding coming to an end in March 2025, PATH has made several applications for funding to continue the project, with the National Lottery Community Fund being the first to make a decision.

Going forward, the project will still teach numeracy skills, but with an additional focus on digital and literacy

skills.

During the first year of the Numeracy Project, the learners were keen to improve their reading and writing skills, and many had little to no confidence using devices such as laptops and mobile phones.

With that experience and feedback guiding PATH, it was an obvious choice to expand the scope of the project for its second year, they said.

“I’m delighted that we have secured

this funding from The National Lottery Community Fund and want to thank them for seeing our vision for the future of the project,” said Michael Hooper, Managing Director.

“Our innovative Numeracy Project has been a huge success and the results we’ve seen from our learners has been amazing.

“We have ambitious plans to reach many more people in the second year of the project, and by offering far more support we know we can continue to make a big difference in reducing homelessness.

“The application was informed by

the learners on the course, a public consultation which had over 500 responses, our stakeholders and partners, and the delivery team who had constructed the course content.

“Last but not least, I’d like to extend a huge thank you to all of the PATH team who have worked so hard on this project over the last year. The team’s dedication has not only helped over 100 people already, but enabled us to help many, many more in the years to come.”

If you need help with your numeracy, digital or literacy skills, contact PATH by visiting www.pathpembrokeshire.co.uk or call 01437 765335.

The Rt Hon Angela Rayner MP, Deputy Prime Minister, on a visit in 2024 (Image: PATH)

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£10m boost for social housing in Wales

Extra funding to help tackle housing crisis

THE WELSH Labour Government has announced an additional £10 million investment in social housing, aiming to deliver more affordable homes for families across Wales.

The funding, which will support 16 housing schemes, is expected to deliver 238 homes before the end of the current Senedd term. It comes as part of the government’s wider commitment to tackling the housing crisis and providing opportunities for families struggling to secure affordable homes.

RECORD iNvEsTMENT iN HOUsiNG

The Welsh Government has made housing a key priority, arguing that good quality, affordable homes are essential for improving health, education, and economic prospects. Ministers say they have already delivered nearly 9,000 affordable rental homes in the social sector since the start of this Senedd term, with further developments in the pipeline.

The latest investment is in addition to the £81 million allocated last year for new housing projects, bringing the total housing budget for 20252026 to £411 million. Ministers insist they are delivering “record levels” of investment in social housing.

CHALLENGEs REMAiN

Despite the funding boost, the Welsh Government remains short of its ambitious target of delivering 20,000 low-carbon social homes for rent by 2026. Audit Wales has warned that between £580 million and £740 million in extra funding could be needed to meet the target. Rising construction costs, planning delays, and shortages in the building industry have also been cited as barriers to progress.

POLiTiCAL DiviDE OvER

HOUsiNG

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The announcement has sparked fresh debate over housing policy in Wales. Welsh Labour has accused opposition parties of failing to support efforts to increase social housing.

Jayne Bryant MS, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, said:

“One of this Government’s key priorities is opportunity for every family. Investing in social housing reduces poverty, improves health, and helps drive economic growth. Good quality, affordable housing can transform lives, improving mental health and educational outcomes.”

She challenged opposition parties to back the investment, adding:

“We know opportunity starts at home. If Plaid Cymru and the Conservatives believe in opportunity for every family, they should vote for our Budget.”

However, opposition parties argue that the funding is insufficient given the scale of the crisis. The Conservatives have blamed rising housing costs on economic mismanagement, while Plaid Cymru has called for alternative approaches to tackling the shortfall in affordable homes.

EXPERT CONCERNs

Housing campaigners and

industry experts have welcomed the extra funding but warn that significant challenges remain. Some argue that a more detailed long-term housing strategy is needed to sustain progress beyond individual Senedd terms.

A spokesperson for Shelter Cymru said: “While additional investment is always welcome, the reality is that Wales faces a deepening housing crisis. More must be done to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes and tackle the root causes of housing inequality.”

With the next Senedd election approaching, housing is expected to remain a key battleground, with political parties setting out competing visions for tackling the crisis.

Police precept was increased

Panel backs 8.6% rise as funding pressures mount, but questions remain over spending priorities

THE DYFED-POwYs POLiCE and Crime Panel unanimously approved an 8.6% increase in the police precept for the 2025-26 financial year, a decision that will see band D households paying an additional £28.65 per year.

The move, backed at a meeting in County Hall, Haverfordwest, last week came amid mounting financial pressures on the force, which Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said was “struggling to maintain services in the face of inflation, increased demand, and declining central government support.”

With the rise, Dyfed-Powys remains the cheapest force in Wales in terms of council tax contributions, but concerns over transparency, recruitment struggles, and the force’s ability to deliver improvements have led to debate among councillors and the public.

PUbLiC CALLs FOR CLARiTY ON PRECEPT-sETTiNG PROCEss

One of the most contentious issues raised at the meeting was the public’s lack of understanding of how the precept is set and spent.

A public question submitted to the panel challenged the clarity of police funding, stating that many council tax premium payers—who contribute three times the standard rate—feel left in the dark about how their money

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is allocated.

Commissioner defends process, blames Home Office for lack of transparency

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn defended the process, highlighting that his office had presented a detailed budget report and that public consultations had taken place.

However, he admitted that the Home Office funding formula remains opaque, stating:

“The way policing is funded in the UK is deeply complex. At present, 56% of Dyfed-Powys Police’s budget comes from local council tax precepts, while central government funding has steadily declined over the past decade.”

Despite efforts to explain the precept-setting process, several panel members acknowledged that more needs to be done to simplify public communications about how and why tax increases are necessary.

wHY is THE iNCREAsE NECEssARY?

Llywelyn outlined several key financial pressures necessitating the 8.6% increase, including:

• Officer pay rises and inflation –Increased salary costs for officers and staff, driven by national pay settlements and rising employer contributions to National

Insurance and pensions.

• Loss of Welsh Government grants – The school liaison programme, previously funded by Welsh Government, is now being covered by Dyfed-Powys Police’s own budget, requiring additional local funding.

• Workforce modernisation –Increased investment in frontline policing, with efforts to free up officers by relying more on police staff and AI-driven automation tools.

• Rural crime concerns – A growing issue in the Dyfed-Powys region, particularly the theft of agricultural vehicles (ATVs), with £500,000 earmarked for enhancing rural crime prevention strategies.

• Investment in AI and digital policing tools – The force is trialling AI-driven software to assist in areas such as redacting sensitive case files, processing victim reports, and even fireworks licensing.

COMPARisONs wiTH OTHER wELsH FORCEs

Llywelyn pointed out that, even with the increase, Dyfed-Powys residents will still pay the lowest police precept in Wales.

Band D council tax comparisons for 2025-26 (estimated):

Dyfed-Powys: £360.68

Gwent: £374.20

North wales: £385.50

Despite this, some panel members raised concerns that cost-of-living pressures could make even small increases difficult for struggling households.

PANEL bACKs iNCREAsE bUT sCRUTiNisEs sPENDiNG PLANs

The precept was approved following a presentation by Councillor Keith Evans, who led the Finance Sub-Group’s scrutiny of the proposed 2025-26 police budget.

Panel members questioned several aspects of the spending plans, including:

1. Recruitment and retention – are officers staying?

While 245 officers were recruited in 2023/24 and 213 in 2024/25, the force is struggling to retain staff, with many leaving within three to seven years. A retention officer has been appointed to understand why officers are leaving and improve working conditions. Llywelyn admitted that pay, workload, and a lack of career progression were major factors in officer departures.

2. Police station closures – fewer public contact points

Concerns were raised over the accessibility of policing services, with only two stations—Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock—offering front

south wales: £395.80

County Hall Haverfordwest

despite ‘transparency concerns’

desk services. Llywelyn defended the shift toward digital and phonebased policing, stating that 101 call response times have improved and that more people now contact police via social media or online portals.

3. Rural crime – a growing concern

Theft of ATVs, livestock, and fuel has been rising, particularly in Carmarthenshire and Powys. Llywelyn stated that the Rural Crime Team is expanding to advise farmers on crime prevention and increase visibility in rural areas. A new crime prevention initiative will see officers working with insurance companies to mark vehicles and equipment to deter theft.

4. Ai and digital policing – how much is being spent?

The force is investing in AI to speed up administrative tasks, such as:

• Redacting case files before submission to the Crown Prosecution Service.

• Using automated translation tools for victim and witness statements.

• Developing digital contact tools for low-risk domestic abuse cases.

Some panel members questioned whether AI investments would reduce officer workload or simply divert funds from frontline services.

COsT-OF-LiviNG CONCERNs –HOw wiLL HOUsEHOLDs COPE?

Despite approving the increase, some panel members raised concerns about the impact on households already struggling with higher energy bills, food prices, and mortgage rates.

Llywelyn acknowledged the financial strain but stressed that without the increase, police services would be forced to cut back.

“To maintain the same level of service, we need an additional £6 million in funding. This precept increase ensures we can keep officers on the streets and continue tackling crime effectively.”

wHAT HAPPENs NEXT?

With the 8.6% precept increase now approved, Dyfed-Powys Police

will move forward with:

• Officer recruitment and retention initiatives.

• Expanding rural crime prevention efforts.

• AI and digital policing trials.

• New scrutiny structures, including quarterly Strategic Performance Meetings and deep dives into key policing issues.

While the panel supported the rise, it is clear that public scrutiny of police spending remains high, particularly regarding whether the promised improvements materialise.

The next Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Panel meeting will assess whether these investments have delivered tangible results.

Police join forces with Cwm Environmental to dispose of seized knives

s AMURA i swords, daggers, machetes, and even a meat cleaver were among the weapons destroyed as part of a new partnership aimed at tackling knife crime.

Dyfed-Powys Police have teamed up with waste management company Cwm Environmental to ensure seized knives are safely and responsibly disposed of.

It marks the first time the force has worked with the Carmarthenshirebased firm, representing a significant step forward in efforts to remove dangerous weapons from the streets and enhance public safety.

Last week, Cwm Environmental collected a substantial number of

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weapons, including those voluntarily handed in through amnesty collections.

Detective Chief Inspector Rhys Jones said: “Dyfed-Powys Police seize a variety of knives, either in connection with crimes or through amnesty initiatives. By working with Cwm Environmental and Carmarthenshire County Council, we can ensure these weapons are not just seized but also destroyed in a safe and responsible manner.

“Every knife we take off our streets represents a potential life saved. This partnership is another important step in making Dyfed-Powys a safer place to live.”

Cwm Environmental, a leader in the circular economy, is committed to sustainable waste management. As a zero-landfill business, the company focuses on reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

At its flagship reuse village, Canolfan Eto, items such as bicycles, toys, and vintage furniture are refurbished and given a second life. The company also produces high-quality organic compost and supports biodiversity with onsite beehives.

Sean Gallagher, managing director of Cwm Environmental, said: “We are committed to supporting initiatives that enhance community safety and wellbeing.

“Partnering with Dyfed-Powys Police to dispose of seized knives responsibly is an important part of that commitment. By ensuring these weapons are safely removed from circulation and handled sustainably, we are helping to reduce harm and contribute to a safer environment for everyone.

“This collaboration highlights how organisations can work together to make a positive impact, and we are proud to be part of this vital initiative.”

Welsh Water customers face the steepest bill rises in UK

HOUsEHOLDs across most parts of wales, including Pembrokeshire, are set to face a 27% increase in their water bills from April, with the average annual bill rising from £503 to £639. The hike marks the beginning of a five-year period of increases from welsh water, culminating in a total rise of 42% by 2029-30, with the steepest increase occurring at the outset.

The company has justified the rise by stating that from April, clean water will cost “an average of £1.75 a day” and that the overall increases will fund a “68% increase in investment” over the next five years. Water companies across Wales and England argue that the additional revenue will lead to improvements in infrastructure, tackling persistent issues such as leaks and sewage overflows.

However, consumer groups have expressed concerns about the financial impact on households. Rhodri Williams, deputy chair of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), has called for an end to what he described as the “postcode lottery” of support available to struggling families. The CCW has proposed a unified system of financial assistance across Wales and England, stating that under such a scheme, “there would be more money to spend on assistance for customers in Wales” due to higher poverty levels compared to England.

HiGHER COsTs ALONG THE wALEs-ENGLAND bORDER

Hafren Dyfrdwy, which serves approximately 87,000 customers along the Wales-England border, will see an even steeper increase, with bills rising by 32% from April. This will take the average annual bill from £447 to £590. The company, however, insists that its customers still “have the lowest bills in Wales and one of the lowest in the UK” and has pledged support for those struggling to meet payments.

Each water company operates its own system of social tariffs, offering discounted or capped bills for eligible customers. Welsh Water currently supports 150,000 customers with reduced bills and has announced an increase in its financial assistance packages from £63 million to £73 million over the next five years.

POLiTiCAL bACKLAsH OvER

RisiNG COsTs

Plaid Cymru has condemned the planned increases, arguing that

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consumers should not bear the cost of cleaning up Welsh waters. Delyth Jewell MS, the party’s spokesperson for Climate Change, stated: “Investing in the water network is, of course, necessary, but this increase in water bills will be difficult for households across Wales who are already struggling with rising costs. Consumers should not be footing the bill to clean up our water.”

Jewell further called for Wales to have direct control over its water, arguing: “Having full control over our water would enable us to tackle soaring water bills, better manage our resources, and properly address the problem of sewage.”

Conservatives and Lib Dems criticise Welsh Water’s performance

Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change, Janet Finch-Saunders MS, also criticised the price hikes, pointing to Welsh Water’s track record of service disruptions and environmental concerns. She highlighted a series of incidents, including a major burst pipe at Bryn Cowlyd Water Treatment Works in Dolgarrog, Conwy, that left 40,000 homes without water. Additionally, residents in Rhondda Cynon Taf were recently issued boil water notices, and Welsh beaches have recorded some of the highest levels of sewage discharge in England and Wales.

“This latest water bill hike from Dŷr Cymru is unacceptable,” said FinchSaunders. “With Wales facing four times as many sewage discharges

MIKE EDWARDS

Mrs Edwards, who is far fonder of foreign parts than i am, has taken issue with my worries about the safety and wisdom of foreign travel.

In particular, she has resented my suggestion that going to France is not a good idea because of the presence of French people. The risk of French people being anywhere is enough to rule it out as a leisure destination. They have never forgiven us for having to rescue them from the Germans twice in the last century.

The French know how to hold a grudge.

Mrs Edwards thinks it frightfully unkind to be beastly to the French and is deaf to my entreaties that they started it! She thinks 953 years is quite long enough to sulk about the outcome of the Battle of Hastings.

I’m not so sure, the Scots have done damned well in moaning about the outcome of Flodden for over 500 years, and I still think that Ringer was innocent at the Siege of Twickers.

proportionally as England, and water bills set to become the highest in the UK, it feels like they’re flushing our money down the drain.”

She further accused the company of delaying necessary infrastructure upgrades: “Dŷr Cymru has been dragging its feet for years, and the public shouldn’t have to foot the bill for water companies’ long-standing failures and reluctance to upgrade their infrastructure until it’s far too late.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster Spokesperson David Chadwick said: “Welsh customers are paying the price for Government incompetence.

“Under the last Conservative UK Government and current Welsh Labour Government in Cardiff Bay, Dwr Cymru was able to get away with minimal oversight.

“They spent years paying out excessive executive bonuses despite being a ‘non-profit’ and having one of the worst environmental records in the country.

“Welsh customers will now have the highest water bills in the UK, despite having some of the lowest incomes, it’s an absolute disgrace.

CALLs FOR REFORM

As water bills continue to rise, pressure is mounting on regulators and the Welsh Government to introduce reforms to ensure fairness and accountability within the industry. With households facing mounting financial strain, consumer advocacy groups and political leaders are demanding urgent action to prevent further hardship for Welsh residents.

I have continued to browse potential holiday destinations in the hope of finding a haven at a reasonable price. Everything, everywhere, especially in Europe, is becoming more expensive; perhaps the prices are being raised to deter refugees from the UK seeking to flee the storms heading our way over the coming months.

In which case, I lay the blame firmly on our doom-laden newspapers. Some of them are reporting we are in for a winter of misery and storms. Those storms have been given names in advance. That spoils the surprise. Seriously, who is going to think: “Ooh! Here comes Storm Marjorie. I’ve been waiting for her.” If we are going to be naming storms, we ought to be more inventive in the names we use. Our storms should not only have names but proper British ones, to boot. One which reflects the constituent parts of the UK.

Let’s use traditional names for our storms. The next one should bear a man’s name: Storm Hamish, for example. After Storm Hamish, we could have Storm Blodwyn; after Blodwyn, Storm Nigel; after Storm Nigel, an Irish name. I suggest Storm Murphy, but I don’t know if he was a character in The Eagle.

And, as they would be British storms, they could be slightly damp and embarrassed instead of the full force and fury of the tempest. Polite storms, not given to causing more than a temporary inconvenience –as opposed to Manchester, in the style of the Lost Land of Lyonesse, vanishing beneath the storm surge heading up the Ship Canal.

Which would, of course, be dreadful. No, seriously – stop it, you’ll make me start.

I can see the headlines now: ‘Manchester disappears, no United fans injured’

ENGLAND: TOM WILLIS

Ireland: Sam Prendergast

Wales suffer heavy

wALEs endured a chastening start to their 2025 six Nations campaign, suffering a crushing 43-0 defeat against France at the stade de France—their first scoreless performance in the competition since 1998.

The hosts ran in seven tries, four in the first half and three after the break, as they overpowered Jac Morgan’s side.

Despite a resilient effort, particularly in defence, Wales struggled to match the physicality of the French pack and now face a daunting trip to Rome for their Round 2 clash against Italy, still searching for a way to end their 13game losing streak.

BRIGHT START quICkLy DIMS Wales showed early intent in

heavy defeat as France dominate

both attack and defence following Ben Thomas’s kick-off. They moved the ball fluidly across the field and defended resolutely, holding up French captain Antoine Dupont in the opening exchanges. Their scrum remained solid, but a marginal penalty against debutant hooker Evan Lloyd in the 12th minute foreshadowed the challenges ahead.

France’s relentless pressure eventually paid off in the 18th minute when Dupont’s cross-field kick found winger Théo Attisogbé in the corner for the opening try, expertly converted by Thomas Ramos. Five minutes later, Ramos turned provider with an overhead pass that allowed Louis Bielle-Biarrey to race over for a second, doubling France’s lead to 14-0.

INjuRIES AND INDISCIPLINE PRoVE CoSTLy

Wales’ fortunes worsened as early injuries disrupted their game plan. Aaron Wainwright was forced off in the fourth minute with a nasty cut, while Owen Watkin limped off with a knee injury midway through the first half. Tommy Reffell replaced Wainwright, while Dan Edwards came on for his debut, shifting Thomas to inside centre.

Further setbacks followed when Lloyd received a yellow card for a high tackle on Bielle-Biarrey in the 31st minute, leaving Wales a man down. France capitalised ruthlessly, with both Attisogbé and Bielle-Biarrey crossing for their second tries before the break. Ramos maintained his perfect record from the tee, sending Wales into the interval 28-0 down.

DEFENSIVE GRIT BuT No WAy BACk

Despite shipping four tries in the first half, Wales tightened up in the

second, limiting France to three more scores. Their commitment was evident in their 188 tackles, but they struggled to contain the relentless French pack.

Head coach Warren Gatland reacted by replacing the entire front row five minutes into the half, bringing on Nicky Smith for his 50th cap. However, his opposite number, Fabien Galthié, made six changes soon after, injecting fresh energy into his forwards.

The fifth French try arrived in the 54th minute, with replacement hooker Julien Marchand powering over from a lineout. Winger Emilien Gailleton added another in the 68th minute, moments after stepping onto the field. Gregory Alldritt completed the rout in the 78th minute, bulldozing over from close range. Replacement scrum-half Nolann Le Garrec missed all three second-half conversion attempts, but the damage had already been done.

LATE CoNTRoVERSy AS NTAMAC SEES RED

The only blemish on an otherwise emphatic French performance was a late red card for Romain Ntamack, whose reckless shoulder charge to the head of Ben Thomas was upgraded from yellow following a review. Wales also saw Freddie Thomas sin-binned in the dying moments for an offside infringement.

With a heavy defeat behind them, Wales must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next challenge against Italy, desperate to halt their alarming losing streak.

LOOK OUT FoR...

WALES: DAN EDWARDS

SCOTLAND: TOM JORDAN

As the second round of the 2025 Guinness Men’s six Nations approaches, italy are set to welcome wales to the stadio Olimpico in Rome this weekend.

This encounter has been described by former Wales fly-half Dan Biggar as Wales’ most significant match in two decades, with both teams eager to bounce back following difficult starts to the tournament.

Head-to-Head History: Wales have traditionally dominated this fixture, winning 28 of their 33 previous meetings. However, Italy have enjoyed greater success in recent years, securing victory in two of their last three encounters.

A particularly memorable moment came in the 2022 Six Nations, when the Azzurri ended their 36-match losing streak in the Championship with a dramatic 22-21 triumph in Cardiff. Their most recent meeting, in March 2024, also saw Italy emerge victorious with a 24-21 win at the Principality Stadium. Now, the Italians are aiming to achieve back-to-back wins over Wales for the first time in their history.

Current Form: Italy began their campaign with a challenging 31-19 defeat away to Scotland. A slow start proved costly, as head coach Gonzalo Quesada acknowledged: “It’s a shame because we started the game with two tries that were too easy for them. We needed time to really get into the game.” However, a stronger second-half display provided some encouragement ahead of their home fixture against Wales.

Wales, meanwhile, are enduring one of the toughest periods in their history.

A humbling 43-0 loss to France in their opening match underscored issues with squad depth and performance levels. They are currently on a 13-match losing streak—the longest in their Test history.

In the Six Nations alone, Wales have lost their last seven games, and another defeat would see them match their worst-ever Championship losing streak of eight games, set between 1994 and 1996.

Recognising the magnitude of the challenge ahead, Wales winger Josh

Adams has emphasised the importance of securing a positive result in Rome.

Team News: Wales have concerns over injuries sustained in their defeat to France, with Aaron Wainwright (3’) and Owen Watkin (26’) both forced off in the first half. In response, Scarlets backrower Taine Plumtree has been called up to replace Wainwright, who is recovering from a facial injury. Additionally, Sale Sharks and Wales tighthead prop WillGriff John has rejoined the squad in Nice as preparations continue for Saturday’s crucial encounter.

statistical insights: Despite their defeat to Scotland, Italy were the only team in the opening round to maintain a 100% success rate from the tee, converting all five of their place-kick attempts. They secured 14 points from kicks—3.27 more than their expected total of 10.73—making them the only side to outperform their predicted kicking points.

Wales, despite their struggles against France, showed some resilience in contact play. They were the only team in Round 1 to make over 200 metres in contact (244) and posted the secondhighest dominant carry rate of the weekend at 35%, trailing only France (41%).

Defensively, both teams demonstrated strong tackling efforts, with five players making 20 or more tackles in the opening round. Italy’s Michele Lamaro (20), Giacomo Nicotera (20), and Sebastian Negri (26) featured prominently, while Welsh forwards Jac Morgan (21) and Dafydd Jenkins (24) also put in big shifts. Notably, Negri’s 26 tackles were the joint-second most ever recorded by an Italian player in the Championship, just one behind Michele Lamaro’s 27 against Scotland last year.

A Defining Fixture: With both sides desperate for a first win in this year’s Six Nations, the stakes are high. Italy will be looking to build on their recent successes against Wales, while Warren Gatland’s side are under immense pressure to end their losing streak. A fascinating contest awaits in Rome as both teams seek to turn their fortunes around.

ysgol Bro Gwaun headteacher to retire

PAUL EDwARDs, the headteacher of Ysgol bro Gwaun in Fishguard, has announced he will retire at the end of the summer term, bringing his 37-year career in education to a close.

In a letter to parents last week, Mr Edwards confirmed his decision, saying it was the right time to step aside and allow new leadership to guide the school forward.

Mr Edwards first joined the school, then known as Fishguard High School, as a newly qualified teacher in the early 1990s. After a period working elsewhere, he returned in 2017 as headteacher. Of his 37 years in education, 26 have been spent at Ysgol Bro Gwaun.

“This decision has not been an easy one,” he wrote. “However, after 37 years in the profession, 26 of which have been at YBG (or Fishguard High School as it was), I feel it is the right time to step aside.”

Reflecting on his time at the school, Mr Edwards described being headteacher as a “privilege and honour,” expressing pride in everything the school community has achieved. He praised students, staff, parents, and carers for making Ysgol Bro Gwaun a vibrant and supportive environment for all pupils, regardless of background or ability.

The school’s chair of governors was informed of his decision some time ago, and the process to find his successor is already underway. The position will be advertised soon, with an appointment expected before Easter.

The new headteacher will take up the role on September 1, allowing a smooth transition during the summer term.

In the meantime, Mr Edwards assured parents that it would be “business as usual” at Ysgol Bro Gwaun, with the school continuing to focus on its core purpose while the recruitment process takes place.

Fishing competition aims to raise £2,000

A FisHiNG competition in Pembrokeshire hopes to net £2,000 to support lifeboat crews in Angle and Tenby.

The Angle and Tenby Lifeboat Fishing Competition is set to take place on Amroth Beach on Sunday, February 16, with all proceeds going to the RNLI teams that provide lifesaving services along the county’s coastline.

and raffle prize donations to help reach the target.

Former Pembroke Dock mayor Peter Kraus is leading the fundraising effort and is appealing for sponsors

Mr Kraus said: “We are hoping to raise £1,000 for each of the lifeboat stations. With your help, that can be possible.

“I need kind sponsors willing to

give £50, and I also need nice raffle prizes. This is such a good cause and a vital lifesaving service.”

Anyone wishing to support the event can contact Peter Kraus via email at peterfkraus1952@gmail.com or call 07900 324287.

New horse training school to be built on Goodwick farm

PREviOUsLY refused plans to allow a Pembrokeshire student permission to develop a sand school for ‘breaking’ horses at his family farm have been approved by the national park.

In an application before Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners, Mr GW Richards sought

permission for the sand school for use in ‘breaking’ and training horses at Llanwnwr Farm, Trefasser, Goodwick.

A previous application for a similar scheme was refused on the grounds it

was on Grade 3a land, the best and most versatile agricultural land; the proposed school now planned to be sited on lower quality Grade 5 agricultural land after discussions with park officers.

A supporting statement through agent MacRae Associates said: “The proposal is to develop a sand school for use in ‘breaking’ and training horses, which will allow the applicant’s son to stay within the area and develop a small business.

“The applicant’s son is currently in his final year studying Equine Science and Business at the Royal Agricultural University. Without the opportunity to develop a small business at his family farm on graduation he will in all likelihood be forced to leave the area.

“In addition to breaking and training horses the use of the site will provide a space that allows the owner to exercise a stallion safely during wintertime instead of exercising it on the public highways. Traffic to the [nearby] lighthouse is significant particularly in the holiday season. This represents a significant risk reduction to both the applicant and the motoring public.

“Exercising the stallion on wet ground in winter carries the risk of causing injury to both rider and horse by slipping on muddy ground. One of

the applicant’s ponies suffers from a disease known as Laminitis caused by too much fresh grass, a sand school would allow this pony to be let out onto a surface which will not exacerbate the condition; the alternative is to keep the pony stabled during times when there is a likelihood of the condition flaring up. It will thus an animal welfare problem.”

The scheduled ancient monument of Llanwnwr Cross-Slab; a stone with a cross carved into the surface, is located some 90m south-west of the site.

An officer report recommending approval said the change to Grade 5 land, alleviated many of the previous concerns, adding: “The application is deemed acceptable subject to detailed development management concerns from the authority and relevant consultees.

“Relevant conditions have been imposed to respect the significance of the archaeological remains in and around the site, and to ensure adequate drainage and green infrastructure implementation. Subject to these conditions the proposal is considered acceptable and to comply with the requirements of relevant local and national planning policies.”

The application was conditionally approved.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Phi Polychroma – An art exhibition by owen Hart

THE PHi POLYCHROMA ART

EXHibiTiON is the culmination of eight years of painting by Pembrokeshirebased artist Owen Hart. wilfully ambiguous, his paintings take on lives of their own, the myriad forms and earthly colours of greens, oranges, blues, yellows and evoking themes of nature, geometry and dreaming, all come together to create wonderful pieces of art.

Employing a full chromatic spectrum, Owen’s paintings seek harmony in contrast and balance between opposites whether between complimentary colours, curves and straight lines or light and dark tones, with the earthly colours stemming from the natural beauty and environment of the county.

“I’ve been building towards this exhibition for many years, maintaining a painting practice alongside full-time teaching. This will be my first time exhibiting my work at the Torch and having eight years’ worth of paintings in one room will be a real treat. This will be my first solo show in Pembrokeshire so I’m excited to be exhibiting my work at Torch,” said teacher and father of two, Owen from Haverfordwest.

In his working life, Owen is a big fan of community engagement and promotes the importance of CARE – Community, Arts, Research and Education. In 2018 Owen cofounded community pop-up

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

initiative, Fair Play Board Game Cafe, where people are encouraged to take part in wholesome screen-free playtime.

Owen has a passion for self-discovery through creativity and exploring new ways of teaching and learning in the 21st century. He’s an advocate for prioritising each individual’s innate gifts, helping them to find their strengths and a sense of purpose and meaning, moving away from the emphasis on standardisation, especially in the education sector.

“People ought to pursue their passions for wellbeing and fulfilment in life. I am endlessly fascinated by the world of ideas and our growing understanding of the mysterious and complex languages and patterns found in nature. I hope to inspire curiosity in others with a mix of forms, colours and concepts in my paintings.” said Owen, who since moving to Pembrokeshire, has seen his love for painting reignited, exploring colour and abstraction.

Driven by enthusiasm to reach out to children of all ages, he has a passion for cross-curricular learning and playfully exploring ideas through the process of art making, enabling high quality educational experiences for young people and fostering a greater sense of self-esteem,

imaginative vision and creative well-being.

In his paintings, Owen often uses grids, geometry and numbers in structuring a creative playground, breaking down the process into manageable steps; the joy of mixing and applying vibrant colours, square by square, along spiral pathways made with the Fibonacci sequence.

Owen describes this magical series as: “A remarkable sequence of numbers made simply by recursively adding each term to the previous term to generate the next term. When expanded out dimensionally, this sequence of numbers gives rise to infinitely nested squares and rectangles locked in a ‘golden’ ratio

known as phi, an irrational number that emerges out of the Fibonacci sequence in the spiral paths that can be seen throughout nature, in the growth patterns of sunflowers, pinecones and shells to name a few examples.”

The Phi Polychroma Art Exhibition by Owen Hart opens at the Joanna Field Gallery at the Torch Theatre on Wednesday 5 February until Friday 28 February. The exhibition can be viewed during Box Office opening hours.

For further information visit www. owenhart.co.uk / www.torchtheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 and the friendly staff will be happy to help.

New campervan park plans for Fishguard divides council

PEMbROKEsHiRE COUTNY

COUNCiL plans for an overnight motorhome and campervan parking site close to Fishguard’s ferry have been lodged, but some of its own officers are recommending refusal as they would not be able to enforce any noise complaints.

A trial scheme for overnight motorhome parking facilities at the Goodwick Moor car park, The Parrog, was mooted last year after a February 2024 council Cabinetbacked trial scheme for ‘Pembs Stop’ campervan and motorhomes facilities at four car parks was later dropped

It had initially been agreed that car parks at North Beach, Tenby; Goodwick Moor, Goodwick; Townsmoor, Narberth; and Western Way, Pembroke Dock would form the trial areas operating year-round at £10 a night for a trial 18-month period, with the intention not to create ‘campsites’.

That planned trial received national coverage, with a discussion on a phonein programme on BBC Radio Wales.

Local tourism businesses had said the proposals will harm them, and concerns about the trial were also raised by the official tourism industry group for Pembrokeshire, Visit Pembrokeshire.

Following that, a special council scrutiny committee meeting was held last April where the scheme was overwhelmingly rejected; a later September 2024 Cabinet agreeing to

Team is recommending refusal.

not proceed with the scheme but instead trial an overnight stopover facility for motorhomes at Goodwick Moor car park, linked to the ferry port, the 18-month trial expected to start this March.

A formal planning application for a conditional change of use of the Goodwick Moor Car Park scheme “to allow for the sleeping overnight between 7am and 9am for motorhomes/camper vans only” has now been submitted by the council but the authority’s own Pollution Control

In its report, the team says: “The Pollution Control Team have a history of complaints associated with this particular location where it has been utilised for overnight parking of heavy goods vehicles. Noise nuisance complaints from nearby residential properties were received as well as concerns for insanitary conditions and improper waste disposal arising from lack of toiletry and refuse collection and disposal facilities/provisions for the location.”

It says the proposal “would undoubtedly represent an intensification

of the site for the overnighting of transient vehicles” adding: “This intensification and its significant potential to adversely impact upon the locality does not appear to have been considered due to the lack of any mitigations and/or controls being recommended within the application submitted”.

It says it would be placed in an untenable position where it would not be able to enforce any noise complaints at a site where it has “historically been an issue for overnighting vehicles “through a noise abatement notice.

“As the source of the noise would be transitory, overnighting vehicles accessing and egressing the site, the persons then responsible would be the owner/operator of the facility.

“As the development site is in the ownership of the local authority, the applicant, the Pollution Control Team, as part of that authority, would be unable to address any future adverse impacts upon public health and the local amenity as legally they are unable to enforce relevant legislation upon the local authority that they are a part of.

“Therefore, considering the evaluation of the application submitted and following consultation with the Public Protection Divisions manager the Pollution Control Team would recommend refusal for this particular planning application for the reasons detailed above.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Cardigan Castle’s chatelaine endured years of squalor to retain her beloved home

FOR over half a century, barbara wood lived a life of abject squalor as the unrelenting chatelaine of Cardigan Castle.

With no electricity, gas nor running water, her living conditions were extreme. But as the property continued its relentless decay, the spinster clung onto her realm with an unquenchable commitment. Despite the concerns of the people around her, nobody was going to take Cardigan Castle away from Barbara Wood.

“She’s a very difficult woman to sum up as she combined so many contrasting characteristics,” said local historian Glen Johnson.

“In many ways she was a Jeckyll and Hyde. She was intelligent, witty and charming, but she could also be stern, bad tempered, selfish, manipulative and cantankerous. In many ways she was like Marmite. You either loved her or you hated her.”

Glen first met Miss Wood when he was a 14-year-old schoolboy with a keen interest in local history – particularly Cardigan Castle. The following year -1985 -he helped establish Cardigan Castle Volunteers.

“I was a little nervous when I first met her because this, after all, was the woman who owned Cardigan Castle.

“And what struck me about her more than anything was that she was a living version of Miss Havisham. She still saw herself as the lady of the manor despite the fact that everyone else could see the awful conditions she was living in, and the way in which the castle was being neglected.”

Barbra Wood bought the castle in 1940, after receiving an inheritance on her 21st birthday. The asking price was £2,500, however her gift enabled her to have just enough money to cover the cost of the deposit, which totalled £600.

She moved in with her mother but within 12 months, they’d accrued a substantial bill as a result of the electricity they’d used. Their electricity supply was subsequently cut off in 1941, shortly followed by the gas supply and the water supply.

Following her mother’s death , Miss Woods remained confined to one room.

“She slept in an old chair filled with blankets so she could keep herself warm, but there was a small hole in the ceiling and a much larger hole in the roof of the floor above,” says Glen.

“So she could see the stars quite clearly from where she was living. The kitchen had this overwhelming smell of paraffin and cat pee, as well as the demon fridge. Obviously the

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fridge wasn’t working, as there was no electricity, and when you opened the door, the stench from inside was horrendous.

“She’d then take out some fluffy object and eat it.”

Despite the house being surrounded by two-and-a-half acres of trees, Miss Wood chose to tear up the parquet flooring in the dining room together with the joists and skirting boards and use them to light fires to keep herself warm.

Shde would never rise before noon, and would never be seen outside the castle gates until 5pm.

“This stemmed back to the days when the bailiffs would be waiting

outside the castle gates,” explained Glen. “She knew they bailiffs would knock off at 5pm, so she’d never venture out until then.”

With a curvature of the spine as a result of all the years she’d spent sleeping in a chair, Miss Woods would hobble through the streets of Cardigan on two sticks, always wearing a bright yellow PVC mac, a red pixie hood and bright red socks. Her face was caked in thick white powder and her lips were painted scarlet.

“Yes, there were a lot of shopkeepers in town who didn’t think highly of her as a result of the money that she owed them, but then, conversely, many people admired her stoicism and the fact that despite all the adversity she endured, she remained a proud and independent woman.

“I remember one afternoon we were

doing some work in the castle grounds and we went up to ‘Kwik Chip’, next door to the castle, to get some fish and chips for lunch. It was during the summer holidays and there was a long queue inside the shop, but suddenly we heard these clicks making their way down to the counter. I knew immediately it was Miss Wood on her sticks, and she made her way to the front of the queue, poked the person who was in front in the ribs to push them back, and she said to the person who was serving, ‘I want sausage and chips’. Needless to say, she got her own way.”

It was this over-riding doggedness that resulted in Barbara Woods’ repeated rejections of attempts to salvage her castle.

“Miss Woods could most certainly have got assistance, but the biggest stumbling block was the fact that if public money was spent, then there would have to be public control. But she wasn’t willing to relinquish this. Every time it looked as if the castle might be moving in a positive direction, either by CADW or by Ceredigion County Council, she would once again get obstructive.”

Deteriorating ill health eventually resulted in Miss Wood being admitted to the Brondesbury Lodge Nursing Home, Cardigan, in 1996, where she remained until her death in 2009. She was buried in a pauper’s grave in Cardigan Cemetery.

Six years before her death, Miss Wood finally sold the castle to Ceredigion County Council for £500,000 and its restoration has been a driving force in the town’s subsequent revival.

“Miss Woods once told a journalist that it broke her heart to see the castle in the condition it was in during her time there,” concludes Glen Johnson.

“Obviously the castle has evolved considerably in the past 20 years, but there are times when I’m inside it, when I remember exactly how it once was. I’ve no doubt that Miss Woods would be a bit sniffy about all these people walking around her home, but I’m certain that she’d appreciate all the attention that her home is now getting.

“There must have been times when she felt like all the rest of us, yearning to see the property that she cared for being saved for future generations.”

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the launch of Cardigan Castle Volunteers, Glen Johnson will be hosting an afternoon of anecdotes and memories of Barbara Wood which takes place at Theatr Mwldan on April 12.

Barbara Wood, pictured outside Cardigan Castle Glen Johnson

As of February 2025, “1923” has captivated audiences with its compelling portrayal of the Dutton family’s struggles during a transformative period in American history. The series, led by the formidable duo of Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, has been lauded for its rich storytelling and character development.

The second season delves deeper into the complexities of the Dutton legacy, exploring themes of survival, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of power. The narrative intricately weaves personal vendettas with broader societal changes,

offering viewers a nuanced perspective on the challenges of the era.

Critics have praised the show’s ability to balance intense drama with historical context, creating a vivid tapestry that resonates with contemporary audiences.

The performances of Ford and Mirren continue to be a highlight, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles as Jacob and Cara Dutton.

However, some viewers have noted that the intricate plotlines and expansive cast can occasionally lead to pacing issues, with certain episodes

feeling densely packed with information. Despite this, the overall reception of the second season has been overwhelmingly positive, cementing “1923” as a standout series in the modern television landscape.

In conclusion, the second season of “1923” builds upon its strong foundation, delivering a powerful narrative that explores the resilience and determination of the Dutton family. With stellar performances and a richly detailed setting, the series continues to engage and enthrall its audience.

Captain America: Brave New World

CAPTAiN AMERiCA:

bRAvE NEw wORLD – A bold New Era for the MCU

“Captain America: Brave New World” marks a significant shift in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Anthony Mackie stepping fully into the role of Captain America. This film not only continues Sam Wilson’s journey but also redefines what it means to be a hero in a post-Steve Rogers world.

The story revolves around Sam Wilson’s efforts to navigate global tensions after a high-stakes meeting with the newly elected U.S. President, Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, played by Harrison Ford. As an international crisis unfolds, Sam must rely on his intellect,

combat skills, and unwavering sense of justice to prevent a catastrophic event. Unlike his predecessor, Sam does not have the super-soldier serum, making his version of Captain America a grounded and tactical force rather than an enhanced powerhouse. Production of the film faced challenges, with early test screenings leading to extensive reshoots. These changes aimed to refine action sequences and deepen character arcs, ensuring a more compelling narrative. With a soaring budget, the stakes are high, both onscreen and off.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is the introduction of Harrison Ford into the MCU. His portrayal of

President Ross brings a level of gravitas that could redefine political dynamics within the franchise. His interactions with Sam Wilson will likely shape the direction of future films, particularly with the looming presence of the Thunderbolts.

“Captain America: Brave New World” is a film that embraces change while honoring the past. It challenges traditional superhero tropes by showcasing a hero whose strength lies in his resilience and leadership rather than superhuman abilities. Whether it succeeds in capturing the magic of its predecessors remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a bold step forward for the franchise.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES For once, it’s really tough to say how you might react to what comes your way at the moment. Ordinarily, your loved ones would have absolutely no problem figuring that out. They might even be able to recite something uncannily close to your answer. But now? Well, with the way you’ve been acting lately, your response is up for grabs. Kind of nice for a change, isn’t it?

TAURUS

Even though you’ll want to get along, it may not be entirely possible at this moment. An emotional tug-of-war seems imminent. The good news is you’re confident enough to stop tugging when you realize someone could get hurt, someone who’s not nearly as well armed as you are, for example. On one of your bad days, that could be just about anyone. And this is a good day.

GEMINI

Heaven helps anyone who tries to come between you and what you absolutely must get off of your chest at the moment. One look should shut them up, and probably send them retreating to the corner with their tail between their legs. But if that doesn’t work, try a few well-placed words. The truthful kind. The honestly truthful kind. Bet they won’t stop until they’re well past that corner.

CANCER

Secrets are in the air at the moment for one and all. It may be particularly tough to keep quiet, however, because the secret you want to share is a happy one. Still, you’ve been sworn to silence. There’s only one thing to do: beg them to let you out of your promise, swear that you’ll only talk about it with your best friend, and do just that.

LEo

That ordinarily charming way you have with words will be even more lethal now, so you should definitely be careful about flinging those casual comments around. You might think you’re kidding around, not really flirting, just teasing a little. But to them you may be the best thing that’s come their way since ice cream. Think before you speak even if you’re just being nice. This stuff you’re putting out is easier to turn on than to shut off.

VIRGo

Someone could give you an awful lot of attention today, but you might not be comfortable with it. If so, your best tactic is to try to ignore them. You can’t try to fake it, but there is also no need to hurt their feelings or embarrass them with overcomplicated apologies. Instead, just carry on with normal relations and sooner or later they’ll get the picture that you aren’t interested. Then they’ll likely give up and move on to someone else.

LIBRA

You have every right to voice your opinion, especially if you think a friend’s new love interest isn’t good enough for them. But remember that if you do, you’re treading in some dangerous territory. Reconsider. It might be best to let this fling just run its course. By butting into other people’s love lives, you run the risk of alienating them. Bite your tongue and just observe things for a while. When it doesn’t work out, don’t rub it in their face.

SCoRPIo

Surprises could be coming to you via your career and the people involved in it. This could mean the higher-ups have been less than forthright about your situation or something they promised. The chances of that happening, however, are slim. What’s more likely is that someone in a position of authority has been working on your behalf. Either way, get ready for something huge!

SAGITTARIuS

Today might be a little tricky when it comes to communication and travel. Now that you know what you’re dealing with, it’s up to you to plan for it. If the past few days have been a struggle, and you don’t want an instant replay of the disorganization, troubleshoot. Be sure you have an alternative arrangement for every plan. Expect to default to the alternative more often than the original.

CAPRICoRN

A lot of people are clamoring for the spotlight now, and you have a real opportunity to stand center stage. Don’t assume that a quiet, conservative approach will get less attention than a loud, outrageous one. Sometimes it’s the quietest music that moves us the most. Just go with the strategy that feels right for you. Don’t let other people intimidate you into trying something you aren’t totally comfortable with.

AquARIuS

Just when you think you have everything under control, a surprise will land in your life and take you out of the action. The good news is that this wonderful surprise proves someone is thinking about you. Let yourself get sidetracked down this happy path and leave your old routine behind. Things will go along just as well without you. You need to capitalize on this excitement and make the most of it. Return the favor by surprising someone yourself!

PISCES

Sharing your life with someone is a choice. Friends and partners have always provided you with the support you need, but now someone could be morphing from supporter to controller. Look at your social calendar. Who’s been setting the agenda? Before things get out of hand, start flex your muscles and make your own choices. If you get some attitude about it, slowly phase this person out of your plans. Life’s too short to not live on your own terms.

wITH eDDIe THe gAme guRu

OuT NOw!

Ah, my dear medieval miscreants and historical hooligans, let us once again don our metaphorical chainmail and saunter forth into the grand, grimy world of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, a game that doesn’t just offer you a digital escape, but flings you headfirst into the past— like some wayward time traveler who’s had a few too many meads and woken up in the middle of 15th-century Bohemia with no recollection of how they got there.

This isn’t some sanitised, Hollywood-ified vision of medieval life where kings are noble, peasants are chirpy, and everyone’s teeth are suspiciously intact. No, no—this is raw, unfiltered, sweat-soaked realism. You’re Henry, still just a bloke with a sword, trying to carve a destiny out of the dirt while people sneer at your unwashed tunic. Life isn’t kind, and neither is this game.

The world is vast—twice the size of its predecessor, with landscapes that stretch out in a breathtaking display of medieval

misery and occasional beauty. There are forests teeming with bandits, towns bustling with more intrigue than a Tudor court, and characters who have their own lives, their own routines, and their own thoughts about what a prat you might be. They won’t just stand there waiting for you to press ‘X’—they’ll judge you on your clothes, your cleanliness, even your conversational skills. A proper society simulator where being a smelly, illiterate buffoon has consequences.

And the combat! Oh, the combat! A meticulous, often punishing dance of steel and sweat that demands patience, strategy, and an ability to accept that, yes, sometimes you will die because you got too cocky with a bloke who actually knows how to hold a sword. But if you stick with it, if you persist, it becomes a ballet of violence, a true test of skill. And this time? They’ve added crossbows. And gunpowder. Because what’s history without a little innovation?

Visually, it’s stunning. It’s like walking through a medieval painting—except one where you can smell the unwashed bodies and hear the gossip of peasants arguing over who stole whose pig. The music swells with orchestral grandeur, and the voice acting? Impeccable. Even in Spanish, it’s got that dramatic, weighty feel that makes every conversation seem like life or death.

Now, is it easy? No. This game doesn’t hold your hand—it slaps it away and tells you to figure things out for yourself. Saving the game isn’t as simple as pressing a button; you have to earn it. Surviving in this world is work. But that’s the point, isn’t it? To feel the struggle, the triumph, the absolute majesty of clawing your way up from the gutters of medieval society and making something of yourself.

So, if you’re looking for a historical RPG that doesn’t pander, that doesn’t sugarcoat the past but revels in its muddy, brutal authenticity.

Johnny Cash Roadshow celebrates 20th anniversary tour at the Torch

THE JOHNNY CAsH ROADsHOw, the world’s premier tribute to the legendary Man in black, is thrilled to announce its 20th Anniversary Tour. Heading into its 20th year on the road and stronger than ever, this fast-paced, energetic, and constantly evolving show is now the longest-running and most critically acclaimed tribute show across the UK and Europe and can be seen at the Torch Theatre this February.

Set on a Grand ‘Ole Opry style stage, the Roadshow brings you the best of Johnny Cash’s catalogue of songs in one night’s entertainment. Fans can look forward to iconic hits such as “Walk the Line,” “Ring of Fire,” “Jackson,” and “Hurt.” With standing ovations every night, this is the longestrunning and best celebration of Johnny Cash in the world today. It’s guaranteed you wanting more.

The tour will kick off mid-January in their hometown of Malvern, Worcestershire, with performances scheduled in major cities across the UK, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Switzerland throughout the year.

Lead singer, Clive John (Johnny Cash), is a multi-award winning singer songwriter, with eight albums of his own material under his belt. Clive has won multiple awards for his songwriting. His album The Spirt was nominated best country album of the year and the title single was no 1 in the Country Music charts for eight weeks. His rendition

Tech and Taff

i s A i READY TO b LO w, OR is THAT JU s T THE s HEEP TALK i NG ?

WELL, my dear Pembrokeshire pals, the digital world is more fired up than a dragon on curry night, thanks to the arrival of DeepSeek R1, the Chinese AI that’s apparently set to give Silicon Valley a proper wake-up call. Imagine trying to tame a wild rugby match—it’s that level of chaos in the tech world right now.

DeepSeek R1 has all the brains of the best AI models but costs less to run than a sheepdog on leftovers. This clever little system can do everything from solving complex maths problems to writing software code—and it’s doing it on a budget so small, even Dai down the pub would raise an eyebrow.

don’t go thinking it’ll do your Tesco shop for you just yet. These systems are powerful, yes, but they’re also unpredictable. Like a sheepdog that’s great with the flock but refuses to fetch the stick, AI can be brilliantly useful— until it’s noAnd here’s a tidbit for you tech-curious folks: the real excitement isn’t just about what this AI can do, but how it was built. DeepSeek’s team has shown you don’t need a dragon’s hoard to make magic happen— just a lot of smarts and a touch of daring. It’s a lesson for all of us: sometimes, it’s not about having more, but using what you’ve got wisely. (Although, let’s be honest, that approach doesn’t work for rugby teams. More muscle is always better there.)

of Hurt recorded Live at Her Majesties Theater Aberdeen was No1 Worldwide for four weeks. Clive is the founder and theater director for the Johnny Cash Roadshow, it’s been his passion for the last 20 years, so this year is a special, not to be missed show.

“We are incredibly excited to celebrate 20 years of the Johnny Cash Roadshow. This tour is a tribute to Johnny’s enduring legacy and the fans who have supported us throughout the years,” said Clive.

Clive will have the company of Ashley Cavell (June Carter) and is no stranger to the stages with her most recent leading role in Vampire Rock which toured the theaters and arenas across the UK. Her background in stage performance and dance runs from the Cruise ships to the stages with many of the top tribute shows in the UK and Europe such as Little Mix, ABBA, Meatloaf and Spice Girls.

The show has been supported by Caitlin Crowell, granddaughter of Johnny Cash.

“Clive captures my Grandfather JUST as he was,” said Caitlin who added: “(the show was) Absolutely authentic to the point where it felt as if it wasn’t a tribute.”

Tickets for the The Johnny Cash Roadshow – 20th Anniversary Tour at the Torch Theatre on Friday 21 February at 7.30pm are on sale now and can be purchased at the Torch Theatre Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

Now, let’s make sense of the panic. Silicon Valley, home to all those American tech giants, has been happily chucking money at AI projects like a kid in an arcade. But along comes DeepSeek R1, built with brains and thriftiness, and suddenly, the Americans are as flustered as someone who’s just learned they’ve put the bara brith in the oven without any raisins.

There’s talk of this AI revolutionizing everything, but

So, should we be worried? Probably not. Should we be paying attention? Absolutely. Because whether we like it or not, AI is here to stay, and it’s shaping up to be as much a part of our lives as tea and Welsh cakes. Until next time, remember: always back up your files and never trust a computer that doesn’t understand rugby scores.

Yours digitally, Professor b arry Davis (Geek, proud welshman, and occasional biscuit dunker)

Badger Goes Green

wELCOME to the green world of badger’s woodland. Not that it’s that green at this time of year. instead, the ground is sodden, more mud than turf, and branches and hedgerows, blasted by the winter storms, are bare and brown.

All of this is part of the cycle of the seasons in Pembrokeshire, where it’s either cold and wet or warm and damp. In the warm and damp parts of the year, Pembrokeshire witnesses an explosion of greenery as chlorophyll production goes into solar-powered overdrive. The old ultra-violet tickles the plants, and they burst into life. Badger is always happy when that happens. Badger doesn’t have much time for the obligatory two veg to go with his diet of hedgehogs and other small critters too dumb to avoid his claws. However, the aforementioned small critters have only to feel the faintest warmth on their backs, and they’re up and about nibbling shoots and leaves and procreating with wild abandon. Result: gluttony and Badger spending his mornings reaching for the Gaviscon after one-too-many dormice the night before.

All of that fol-de-rol and mammalian foie gras is to observe that when the world is green in the seasonal sense, it is a fine place to be a badger.

The great Kermit the Frog once observed: “It’s not easy being green”. It occurs to Badger that being green is very easy. It’s especially easy if you don’t live in the countryside and don’t live with the consequences of a political discourse that wants to create a rural idyll devoid of rural life.

Let’s start with something obvious: Climate change is real, and humans have contributed to it. There is zero scientific debate about this. The dimmest naysayers, the most cretinous autodidacts, and the most deranged conspiracy theorists are the only people who refuse to believe the overwhelming amount of peerreviewed evidence about climate change.

Let’s park that bus right there. Some people believe climate change is not real. Others believe the Earth is flat, Australia doesn’t exist, and the Apollo Moon landings

did not take place. Badger groups those disparate beliefs together and impliedly links a refusal to believe in climate change with them because they all fly in the face of observable and provable truth.

Now we’ve accepted climate change is real - and even if you haven’t, Badger will defend your right to be a nincompoop to the death - the next order question is what should be done about it and what can be done about it.

It might surprise you to learn that, despite being a decidedly furry carnivore, Badger does not take to wearing a hair shirt.

A hair shirt was originally a garment or undergarment made of coarse cloth or animal hair worn close to the skin as a self-imposed means of repentance and mortification of the flesh. It was an instrument of penance for sins.

The idea of a “just transition” is so much horse apples. There is no easy

way to transition from an industry employing tens of thousands to one employing hundreds. There is always a cost attached in terms of opportunities forgone, jobs, and prosperity. You might argue, in the abstract, that such job losses and economic damage are worth it in the long term because they ultimately benefit all of us. Lofty sentiments and long-term visions are good things as long as they’re combined with a practical view of the present. The problem with constantly lifting up one’s eyes to the hills is missing the bloody big potholes in the road ahead.

Short-term pain leads to longterm gain, or so we’re told by those with deep pockets and no common sense. Badger thinks that argument is like throwing a starving man a cold chip and expecting him to make a three-course meal out of it.

The drive towards renewable energy, net-zero, green energy, reducing carbon emissions in Wales

- and across the UK - means we are all wearing a hair shirt of one sort or another. If you are fuel-poor, you are subsidising the environmental ambitions of those who have the means and capital to ride out increased energy prices. If you work in an industry that relies on consistent heavy energy use or produces carbon emissions (at least, if you are in the UK), your jobs are in the firing line. Just look at Port Talbot Steelworks and other heavy manufacturing industries to see the consequences.

This isn’t a case of “Lord, make me free from sin, but not yet.” Badger embraces sin as an essential part of existence. After all, imagine if the reward for a life of chastity and continence was an eternity in heaven listening to a heavenly choir singing Andrew Lloyd Weber’s greatest hits. No.

What Badger is getting at is the abject failure of politicians of all parties to spell out that going green comes at a high cost. It costs public money, it’s subsidised by direct and indirect taxes levied on the public, and it costs jobs. In particular, it destroys communities based around specific heavy industries. If you want a living example of the consequences of deindustrialisation, look at the former coal-mining areas of South Wales and the North-East of England. Forty years on from the Miners’ Strike, they are still economic basket cases. Badger invites those who get a kick out of others’ despair to take a tour of the South Wales Valleys and tell the generations of people who’ve had no long-term employment that ending fossil fuel extraction and its associated industries were worth it “for Gaia’s sake”.

If you do, collect your teeth from the pavement as you leave.

For those living in the here and now or living from hand to mouth, a prosperous green future built around new technologies and new jobs is impossible to imagine as anything but hogwash. And nothing anyone anywhere has said has made a material difference to that reality.

A GULL’S EYE VIEW ON TRUMP’S LATEST PLAN

AH, me hearties, it’s been a while since ol’ stephen has had to wheel and circle over such a great, steaming pile of nonsense, but here we are again. some things in life are as predictable as a dodgy chip down by the docks giving you the runs, and one of them is Donald Trump squawking out a half-baked idea like a seagull choking on a bottle cap.

This time, he’s flapped into the Middle East with all the subtlety of a storm-force wind and announced that Gaza should be emptied and its people shipped off to some idyllic fantasy land he’s plucked from the ether. Now, I’m no expert on international diplomacy, but I do know a bad idea when I see one—and this one stinks worse than a trawler that’s been left in the sun for a week.

THE OLD biRD’s biG iDEA

According to Trump, the only reason the people of Gaza want to go back to their homes is because they’ve got no alternative. Well, blow me down and call me a puffin! It’s almost as if people don’t want to be forcibly displaced from

the only home they’ve ever known. Who’d have guessed it? Not Trump, apparently.

He calls this a simple, brilliant plan.

I’d call it simple-minded at best. If ignorance was a currency, Trump could buy and sell the entire Atlantic Ocean. His proposal—shift an entire population somewhere else, let Israel “own” the land through some bizarre real-estate wheeler-dealing, and assume the rest of the world will just fund the operation— is not just unworkable, it’s downright cruel. Not that cruelty has ever been much of a deterrent for the man.

THE MAN wiTH bLOOD ON His bEAK

And standing right beside him in this grotesque spectacle is Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister and, let’s not forget, a man currently under indictment for corruption and war crimes. If Trump’s plan sounds like the fever dream of a property developer who’s spent too long sniffing paint fumes, Netanyahu is the bloke rubbing his wings together and nodding along, hoping the Americans will foot the bill for his own ambitions.

The pair of them are so focused on pushing their own agenda that they’ve managed to ignore some rather glaring realities. Like the fact that Gaza didn’t just randomly become an unlivable wasteland—it was reduced to rubble through relentless bombardment, much of it at Netanyahu’s command. And what of the people? Oh, just move them somewhere else! What could possibly go wrong?

THE FOXEs REFUsiNG TO GUARD THE HENHOUsE

Not that Trump’s master plan has gone down well with the neighbours. Egypt and Jordan want nothing to do with it, and even Saudi Arabia—hardly a champion of Palestinian rights— has given it the cold shoulder. Trump assumed they’d all just roll over and bankroll his grand vision, but here’s a shocker: they didn’t. Probably because even they can see that forcing millions of people out of their homes against their will might not be the best way to maintain regional stability. Who knew? (Well, apart from the UN, most world governments, and anyone with a pulse.)

DANGEROUs GROUND

But this isn’t just another Trump brainfart that’ll dissipate on the breeze. It’s dangerous. It gives credibility to the most extreme elements in Israeli politics, those who dream of an Israel that stretches from the river to the sea with no Palestinians left in it. It emboldens Hamas, who can now tell their supporters: “Look, even the Americans want you gone!” And it fuels the fires of every militant group that has spent decades calling the US an enemy of the Arab world.

This isn’t diplomacy. This is the kind of madness you hear from a bloke in a pub after six pints, a double whiskey, and a smack on the head. Except this bloke used to be President of the United States, and there’s a chance he might be again.

wHAT HAPPENs NEXT?

Well, the world has reacted as you’d expect—with condemnation, disbelief, and the kind of exhausted sigh you give when a seagull’s just stolen your chips for the fifth time that day. But Trump doesn’t care. His supporters don’t care. And Netanyahu? He’s quietly thrilled, because Trump has just handed him a Get Out of Jail Free card at a time when his own political career is hanging by a thread.

And so, the cycle continues. More conflict, more destruction, more senseless posturing from men who wouldn’t last five minutes if they had to live in the places they’re so eager to carve up. And meanwhile, the people of Gaza, caught between the rock of war and the hard place of displacement, suffer on.

If only someone could come up with a simple, brilliant big idea that actually involved peace. But then, that would take real intelligence. And that’s not something you’ll find in the TrumpNetanyahu nest.

Until next time, keep your beady eyes on the horizon—and watch out for men in suits with bad ideas.

Would your dog eat lab-grown food?

PET TREATs MADE FROM CULTivATED MEAT GO ON sALE

Dog treats made from labgrown chicken have hit the shelves of a UK pet retailer in what is being claimed as a world first.

The food, developed by Meatly, combines plant-based ingredients with cultivated meat—produced by growing a single sample of cells from a chicken egg. The firm says the treat, called Chick Bites, contains all the essential amino acids, critical fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins needed for pet health, and claims it is “just as tasty and nutritious as traditional chicken breast.”

Pets at Home, which is selling the product, believes it is the first company in the world to offer cultivated meat for pet

food. Unlike traditional meat production, the process does not require the raising or slaughter of animals.

Meatly’s founding chief executive, Owen Ensor, said: “It’s a giant leap forward toward a significant market for meat that is healthy, sustainable, and kind to our planet and other animals.”

Competition in the growing market

However, Meatly faces competition from rivals keen to capitalise on the demand for more sustainable pet food. AustrianAmerican start-up BioCraft has been developing cultivated mouse meat for dogs and cats. In May 2024, the company claimed it had managed to cut production costs significantly and plans to launch its product by early 2026.

Meanwhile, in February 2024, US firm Hill’s Pet Nutrition announced it had been collaborating with

Bond Pet Foods to “formulate test products.”

Changing attitudes toward cultivated meat

Researchers have spent years developing alternatives to traditional animal proteins, which are linked to climate change, biodiversity loss, and water pollution. In August 2024, the UK’s innovation agency, UKRI, allocated £15m to the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) to assess the health benefits and risks of cultivated meat, as well as public acceptance.

A 2022 survey published in the PLOS ONE journal revealed mixed attitudes towards labgrown meat. The study of 729 UK consumers found that only 32.5% would eat cultivated meat themselves, but 47.3% would consider feeding it to their pets.

Regulatory approval and

limited launch

In July 2024, UK regulators became the first in Europe to grant Meatly approval to produce cultivated meat for use in pet food. The company says its products have undergone rigorous safety testing, ensuring the cultivated chicken is free from bacteria, viruses, GMOs, antibiotics, harmful pathogens, heavy metals, and other impurities.

A limited release of Chick Bites will be sold under the plantbased dog food brand, THE PACK, at a branch of Pets at Home in Brentford, London, from 7 February.

Pets at Home CEO Anja Madsen described the launch as a “game-changer for the industry,” stating: “This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of pet food.”

Buzzing about Bee Friendly school status

PRENDERGA s T

Community Primary school pupils are buzzing to have been awarded bee Friendly status by the welsh Government.

The award recognises the pupils’ commitment to supporting pollinators and promoting biodiversity, with a key focus on pollinator conservation.

Their work, both in the classroom and with hands-on projects, has been highlighted in a recent case study report which outlines how pupils have

developed an understanding of how vital pollinators like bees, butterflies and hoverflies are to ecosystems and food production.

It also reflects the school’s broader aim to encourage pupils to contribute positively to the world, guided by their motto ‘Believe and Achieve’.

Learners have been growing their own plants, especially those loved by pollinators, and selling them in their pay-as-you-feel Bocs Bwyd shop, where surplus food from local businesses is

passed on to save on waste.

Last year the school was extremely fortunate to acquire a large field that is being transformed into an outdoor area designed to support learning about biodiversity and sustainability, with support from Keep Wales Tidy Supersize Development Package.

The Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership, with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Conservation Team, has provided guidance on developing diverse habitats in the area, as well as encouraging

a wildflower meadow in part of the field.

The habitat the school is creating will support pollinators and other wildlife as well as a providing living classroom for hands-on environmental education.

Prendergast CP School will be working with Pennar Community School, with support from the Darwin Centre, Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools and Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership, to conduct biodiversity surveys on pollinators and local wildlife as part of wider biodiversity studies.

Headteacher Louise John said: “Our pupils and staff are proud of the recognition of their efforts in gaining Bee Friendly Status for their commitment to enhancing the school environment to support biodiversity activities at Prendergast School.

“The Bocs Bwyd is integral to our school curriculum and all pupils will learn about, grow and cook food to support their health and practice sustainability goals.”

Any other organisations interested in becoming more bee friendly can contact Pembrokeshire County Council’s Biodiversity Implementation Officer anthony.rogers@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Thousands more learners to receive financial support

THOUsANDs more post 16 learners in colleges and sixth forms will receive the Education Maintenance Allowance following a welsh Government decision to uplift the household income thresholds resulting in more families being able to apply.

Education Maintenance

Allowance (EMA) is a weekly grant of £40, designed to support 16 to 18-year-olds from eligible households with further education costs, such as transport or meals. EMA was ended in England in 2011, and is retained at a lower rate of £30 in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Currently over 16,000 students receive EMA but starting from the new academic year in September an estimated 3,500 more learners will benefit from the uplift.

The threshold for households with one dependent child is currently £20,817 and this will increase to £23,400, meaning families with a household income of £23,400 or less will be eligible to

receive EMA.

The threshold for households with two or more dependents is currently £23,077 and this will increase to £25,974, meaning families with a household income of £25,974 or less will be eligible to receive EMA.

Minister Further and Higher Education, Vikki Howells, said: “Wales already delivers the most generous Education Maintenance Allowance in the UK, helping post16 learners to continue studying academic or vocational courses, and this change means we will now be supporting thousands more learners.

“We are very proud of our record in maintaining and increasing the Education Maintenance Allowance. We are clear that our Draft Budget is a budget for a brighter future and the uplift to EMA eligibility is one of the ways we are delivering this. The announcement means thousands more learners will now benefit

from further financial support to continue or start their further education journey.”

Deio Owen, President of NUS Cymru, said: “NUS Cymru welcomes the Minister’s announcement today. Raising the household income threshold for EMA will enable more than 3500 young people to engage with post16 learning. That’s 3500 young people that we will now hopefully see continue with their education

and continue to equip themselves for a better future.”, said Deio Owen, President of NUS Cymru.

“We have been campaigning for this for quite some time, and we are delighted that the Welsh Government have finally listened to student voices. I look forward to working ever closer with the Minister in the coming months on areas where we can further strengthen the student offer in Wales.”

Increased vigilance and biosecurity call after Avian Influenza Prevention Zone announcement

NFU Cymru is urging all poultry keepers in wales to practise high levels of on-farm biosecurity and to prevent contact with wild birds, following the introduction of an all-Wales Avian Influenza Prevention zone (AiPz).

Today (Wednesday 29th January) Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs Huw Irranca-Davies MS announced the introduction of an AIPZ from midnight on Thursday 30th January. The move follows similar AIPZ restrictions being implemented in England and Scotland following outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in poultry flocks across Great Britain. Although avian influenza has not been detected in poultry or kept birds in Wales this season, the move to introduce an AIPZ recognises the heightened risk of transmission from wild to kept birds. Keepers with more than 500 birds must also take extra biosecurity measures, including limiting access to non-essential people, changing clothing and footwear before entering premises with birds and cleaning

and disinfecting vehicles.

NFU Cymru Poultry

Chairman Richard Williams said:

“Unfortunately the UK poultry industry is all too familiar with the devastating impact that AI can have on our flocks and our businesses in recent years. Given the worsening disease picture in other parts of the UK this season, it is absolutely imperative that poultry keepers – whether that’s

commercial businesses or small backyard flocks – do all they can to protect our birds from this disease.

“The announcement of an all-Wales AIPZ recognises the increased risk to Welsh flocks. Although there aren’t currently any AI cases in Wales, we must not be complacent. I urge all poultry keepers to heed the advice and warnings being given

by Welsh Government, employ enhanced biosecurity measures and remain vigilant for signs of the disease.”

For more information about the AIPZ, guidance and latest developments visit the Welsh Government website. If you suspect bird flu in poultry or other captive birds in Wales, you must report it immediately by calling 03003 038 268.

kurtz Toasts Vineyard’s Success amid DRS Concerns

samuel Kurtz, Member of the senedd for Carmarthen west and south Pembrokeshire, has highlighted the success of Pembrokeshire’s award-winning velfrey vineyard in the senedd as they compete in the ‘best Food and Drink’ category of the Countryside Alliance Awards.

Andy Mounsey, owner of Velfrey Vineyard and Chair of the Welsh Vineyards Association, which represents winemakers across Wales, has voiced concerns about the introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in Wales. The proposed scheme, which breaks from the rest of the UK by including glass, poses challenges for Welsh drink producers, including winemakers.

Speaking about the inclusion of glass and its effect on winemakers like Velfrey Vineyard, Andy said:

“The inclusion of glass within the DRS would have a chilling effect on the growth of the Welsh vineyards sector. All vineyards in Wales are small, familyrun businesses – many are very newly established and it is several years until they will be able to turn a profit.

“They don’t have the time or the resources to implement a complicated scheme, and associated costs would have a disproportionate impact on their bottom line. A survey conducted by the Welsh Vineyards Association found that

ALL of the customers responding said that they already return their bottles for recycling or reuse. So the cost, complexity and concern caused by the inclusion of glass can have no upside, as it is impossible to improve on 100%.

“DRS operating differently on either side of the border would add to the complication and make Welsh vineyards less competitive than their English counterparts. Finally, the pressure inside a bottle of traditional method sparkling wine is such that reuse is not considered safe. We would urge Welsh Government to consider removing glass altogether from the DRS, or at least ensuring that all Welsh wine production is exempted.”

Samuel Kurtz, who raised this issue in the Senedd, added:

“It is totally unacceptable for the Welsh Labour Government to add all of this extra cost and bureaucracy to our winemakers, as well as to other small drink producers in Wales.

“Not even the UK Labour Government is going down this path, for the obvious reason that it is costly and won’t make much of an impact, as we already have excellent recycling rates for glass.

“By ignoring these calls, the Welsh Labour are basically telling Welsh vineyards to put a cork in it and that is unacceptable.”

Mutual interest in protecting farm water supply leads to mentoring partnership

THE RiPPLE EFFET of positive change is being experienced on farms and other agri-businesses across wales thanks to the Farming Connect Mentoring programme.

Farmers like Dai Evershed, who benefitted from the guidance and expertise of a friend and colleague when he returned to the family farming business in Ceredigion in 2022, are “paying it forward’’ as a mentor.

For his mentees, including Powys sheep farmer Aled Haynes, the mentoring relationship has armed them with the knowledge and confidence to move forward with new aspects of their own businesses.

It was Dai’s experience of utilising smart sensor technology at Wallog, the 194-hectare holding near Clarach which he farms with his father, Jack, that brought the two men together.

Dai uses LoRaWAN technology to monitor water supply and use across the farm, and to detect and stop leaks at the earliest opportunity, thus safeguarding the limited spring water supply for his farm.With support from Farming Connect as an ‘Our Farms’ project, water levels at different reservoirs are being monitored alongside flow rates of water and that information is being used to inform decisions on when pumping is necessary.

Aled was keen to apply this technology to help protect his own water supply at Trefnant Isaf, Welshpool, and applied to Farming Connect to be mentored by Dai.

He had attended a Farming Connect open day at Wallog in 2024 where he had learned about Dai’s project.

The two men had an initial meeting at Trefnant Isaf and have since followed that with a second site visit as well as video and telephone calls.

“Aled’s farm is similar to mine,’’ says Dai. “When I visited, we had a walk around and discussed what needed doing.’’

But Dai stressed that a mentor is not a consultant, the role is one intended to help mentees come up with solutions themselves, although be it through a “mutual development of ideas’’.

“It’s about encouraging the mentee to concentrate on what their goals are and what can be achieved,’’ Dai explains.

“Aled took my personal experience into account though and looked at what was doable in

his situation.’’

Aled has since invested in two sensors, one which monitors water levels in the receiving tank and the other the flow rate.

This data will enable him to know how much excess water becomes available in the winter and therefore the extra capacity in the system for supply in the drier months.

The next step is to work out how much is consumed by his livestock and how to get that water to different parts of the farm.

Dai also works at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University and his own knowledge of LoRaWAN technology was developed with support from his colleague, Jason Brook.

“Jason was very knowledgeable in usage of LoRaWAN after implementing it in the controlled environmental growing facilities at the university,’’ he says.

“He helped me in the early stages and with any issues latterly.’’

It is that experience which, in part, encouraged Dai to engage with the Farming Connect Mentoring programme.

“I had help when I needed it and am grateful to be that person who can now pay it forward with what I have learned.’’

He was sure that the knowledge he had gained could be useful to other farmers.

“It is a niche area that could be valuable for farmers who want to do something similar and need help.

“Most farmers are unlikely to have been exposed to LoRaWAN and sensors and it is doubly challenging perhaps in that it can also be a complicated subject matter.’’

His innovative approach to water efficiency saw him named as runner-up in the Farming Connect Farm Innovator Award

PEM b ROKE s H i RE FUw CELEbRATE s UCCE ss FUL bREAKFAsT wEEK

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) Pembrokeshire are celebrating another successful Farmhouse Breakfast Week, raising over two thousand pounds for charity at two breakfast events this January.

at the recent Lantra Cymru Awards 2024.

It is not only mentees who gain from mentoring, reckons Dai, who is now a mentor to three farmers.

“I have learned so much from the farmers I have mentored, it is very much a two-way thing, an exchange of ideas.

“It is a brilliant way for me to see different farming systems and, as someone who is relatively new to farming, that has been very beneficial.’’

So, what makes a good mentor? In Dai’s opinion, it is having an unlimited capacity to listen and to be open to the ideas of others, to help the mentee to develop their own ideas.

“We are there to help the people we mentor grow and to find the motivation to move forward with their ideas,’’ he says.

There are also occasions when a mentor can draw on their own experiences to help those they are working with to solve problems.

“Aled called me when a sensor wasn’t working and it sounded like a similar situation to one I had previously experienced, when a slug had found its way inside the sensor,’’ Dai explains.

“I suggested that he checked for slugs and in fact that was the problem and he was able to resolve it. Sometimes problems have simpler solutions than you can dare imagine!’’

For Aled, the opportunity to discuss some of his ideas with Dai has been very beneficial for him personally and his business.

“Every situation is different so having someone come to the farm, to have a look at the set-up and to bounce ideas off, is really worthwhile,’’ he says.

With a big range of potential mentors with different areas of expertise listed in the Farming Connect Mentoring directory, Aled encourages others to take up the opportunity and capitalise on that wealth of knowledge.

The FUW’s annual Farmhouse Breakfast Week saw 24 breakfast events held across Wales between the 18th and 25th of January 2025, with members, the public and politicians enjoying the delicious, nutritious and sustainable breakfast, whilst catching up on farming matters with FUW staff and officials.

Pembrokeshire’s breakfasts were held at Canolfan Hermon and Crundale Hall, with over 170 breakfasts served, and supported by local Senedd Members, Samuel Kurtz MS and Paul Davies MS.

The £2,359.20 raised at the FUW Pembrokeshire breakfasts will be shared jointly between the 2026 Pembrokeshire National Eisteddfod appeal, and the Wales Air Ambulance.

Nationally, the FUW’s Farmhouse Breakfast Week raised over £13,500 for the Wales Air Ambulance charity.

Reflecting on a successful Farmhouse Breakfast Week, FUW Pembrokeshire Chair, Gerwyn Williams said:

“We have enjoyed another successful Farmhouse Breakfast Week in Pembrokeshire, and I thank all the staff, members, volunteers and the public for their incredible support. In particular, I’d like to thank the many local businesses and producers from across Pembrokeshire that have given so generously to support the breakfast events.

Together we have raised a brilliant amount

of money, including a significant donation towards the Wales Air Ambulance, that saves lives across Wales every single day.

“The Farmhouse Breakfast Week not only offers an opportunity to bring our communities together and raise funds towards good causes, but also provides a key opportunity to showcase the very best of our high quality Welsh produce, and the vital role farming plays within our rural communities both socially and economically.”

Dr Sue Barnes, Wales Air Ambulance Charity Chief Executive, added::

“We are extremely grateful to the FUW and its members for the magnificent sum of money they have raised yet again this year to support the Wales Air Ambulance.

“Our charity is working hard to ensure our vital work in supporting rural and agricultural communities can continue, not just for the here and now, but for our future generations. Our commitment and connection to rural Wales is, and always will be, incredibly strong.

“We also recognise and give thanks for the invaluable contribution that the farming community makes to Welsh society, as well as the quality produce that is enjoyed here in Wales and around the world.”

As part of the FUW Farmhouse Breakfast Week, a breakfast event was also held at the Norwegian Church, Cardiff Bay which was well attended by a range of key stakeholders and Senedd Members, including First Minister, Eluned Morgan MS. The event was kindly sponsored by Jane Dodds MS, with Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS also giving a speech.

The first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring

With the first-ever BMW M3 Cs Touring, bMw M GmbH adds another special-edition model to its high-performance vehicle line-up. This exclusive new derivative builds on the success of the bMw M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive, further enhancing its unique combination of exhilarating performance and exceptional practicality.

Offering an increased engine power output, bespoke chassis tuning and minimised weight –helped by numerous components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) – the new BMW M3 CS Touring (fuel consumption combined: 26.9 mpg; CO2 emissions combined: 240 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G) provides the necessary ingredients for a truly compelling driving experience.

The six-cylinder in-line engine, delivering an impressive 550 hp, combined with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables the BMW M3 CS Touring to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 mph.

Priced from £120,600 RRP, this latest special-edition model will be produced in a limited run alongside all other variants of the BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M3 Touring at BMW Group Plant Munich, with first deliveries arriving in the UK from March 2025.

Ready for everything: The New Isuzu D-Max

isUzU UK proudly unveils The New isuzu D-Max, a pick-up truck that sets new benchmarks in durability, refinement, and technology. Smarter, stronger, and safer than ever, The New isuzu D-Max is the ultimate combination of toughness, innovation, and versatility, built to continue the “Driven To Do” ethos that defines Isuzu.

Ready to Work and Play: D-Max for Everyone

The New Isuzu D-Max is tailored to meet the needs of every driver. Its lineup is divided into two distinct ranges: Business and All-Purpose.

The Business Range, eaturing the Utility model, is designed as a nononsense workhorse available in single, extended, and double cab formats. With durable vinyl flooring, robust steel wheels, and advanced safety features, the Utility model is built to excel in demanding environments.

The All-Purpose Range caters to those seeking premium features and modern styling. The DL20 model, available in both extended and double cab body styles, offers heated seats, carpeted interiors, and alloy wheels for a more refined experience. For those who desire more sophistication, the DL40 trim introduces BiLED headlights, leather upholstery*, and dual-zone climate control. Sitting at the

top of the range is the V-Cross, featuring dark grey exterior finishes, an advanced 9” infotainment system, and an 8-speaker premium sound setup, combining luxury and practicality in one vehicle. This model also introduced the sophisticated new Sienna Orange colour.

Ready to Make Your Journeys Safer

Safety is at the heart of The New Isuzu D-Max, Smarter, Stronger, and Safer than ever before. Every model is equipped with Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), ensuring comprehensive protection on every journey. These features include the new Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, working in conjunction with Traffic Sign Recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, new Turn Assist, new Rear Cross Traffic Braking, improved Lane Keep Assist and Attention Assist, alongside the existing extensive range of ADAS features, standard cross the range, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.

Double cab models benefit from eight airbags, including a centre airbag for added protection during side collisions, while the current generation of the D-Max is also certified with a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. E-Call technology, which automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a serious collision, further enhances the safety credentials of the D-Max.

Welsh beer and pub sector injects over £1.5 billion into economy

Industry warns of financial strain as wbPA urges senedd for urgent business rates reform

WALES’ beer and pub sector contributes more than £1.5 billion to the national economy and supports over 68,000 jobs, but rising costs are putting its future at risk, the Welsh Beer and Pub Association (WBPA) has warned.

The WBPA’s inaugural State of the Nation 2025 report highlights the sector’s crucial role in providing local employment, boosting tourism, and sustaining rural communities. However, at the report’s launch at the Senedd on Wednesday (Jan 22), the association cautioned that ongoing financial pressures are threatening its viability.

Rising closures and financial disparity

Wales has experienced higher pub closures than the rest of the UK, with 6.5% of pubs shutting down between 2018 and 2023, compared to 4.6% in England and 3.9% in Scotland. The WBPA attributes this to a

combination of factors, including lower business rates relief, which leaves Welsh pubs an average of £6,000 worse off annually compared to their English counterparts.

The Bridgend Inn, a former pub in Haverfordwest, now shut for good

The Starboard in Milford Haven, now closed, was once a popular pub

While the rate of closures slowed slightly in 2024, the impending increase in National Minimum Wage and National Insurance Contributions is projected to cost the sector over £650 million, adding further strain on an already fragile industry.

CALL FOR URGENT REFORM

The WBPA is calling on the Senedd to introduce permanent business rates reform to provide certainty for pub operators, mitigate soaring costs, and phase in new employment charges set to take effect in April. It is also advocating for beer duty

to be reduced to align with EU averages.

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the WBPA, said: “The beer and pub sector is a vital Welsh industry that so many people rely on for their livelihoods. It is economically and socially significant, providing jobs for young adults and those seeking flexible work.

“Our industry pours more than a billion into the economy and is crucial for jobs, communities, and tourism. However, with pubs making just 12p profit per pint on average due to high business costs, the sector is in a fragile state.

“If the Senedd supports the industry, our sector and its workforce can continue to boost the economy, employ more people, and remain at the heart of Welsh communities.”

PREsERviNG A wELsH TRADiTiON

The WBPA is urging policymakers to collaborate with the industry to create a sustainable economic framework that minimises additional costs and regulatory burdens. It

argues that such measures would allow pubs and breweries to plan financially and continue operating across the UK.

Nick Payne, Chairman of the WBPA and Managing Director of S.A. Brains, said: “Our sector has a rich history and unique character that sets it apart from the rest of the UK. Over the past decade, we have seen a surge in local breweries, and the past year has seen a slowdown in pub closures.

Nick Payne, Chairman of the WBPA and Managing Director of S.A. Brains

“However, we cannot ignore the fact that margins are still tight and being squeezed further. Many operators are struggling with rising costs, and the national economic outlook remains uncertain.

“We need policymakers in Cardiff Bay and Westminster to reassess their policies, particularly their cumulative impact, and work with us to establish regulatory and economic frameworks that will keep our breweries and pubs at the heart of local communities and economies.”

The Starboard in Milford Haven, now closed, was once a popular pub

The Bridgend Inn, a former pub in Haverfordwest, now shut for good

Nick Payne, Chairman of the WBPA and Managing Director of S.A. Brains

Company to create new jobs after purchase of Government factory

A CARMARTHENsHiRE

manufacturing company is set to create 20 new jobs as part of expansion plans after purchasing a vacant welsh Government factory.

Morgan Marine plans to invest £1.25m to refurbish the building at Cilyrychen Industrial Estate, near Ammanford, as it pursues new growth aspirations.

Skilled welders will manufacture fabricated steel products from the site, which will also house an onsite training facility.

The business currently employs 211 people, and will create 20 new jobs over the next three years.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “Morgan Marine provides quality employment opportunities and is committed to developing the skillset within its community.

“I am delighted the purchase of our business unit means that Morgan Marine can continue to grow and expand its

skilled workforce without abandoning its roots.”

Morgan Marine is also planning to develop a renewable energy source at the premises, potentially via installation of solar panels and wind turbines.

Rhydian Jones, Managing Director of Morgan Marine, said: “Morgan Marine are delighted to acquire a new unit from the Welsh Government. This further reinforces our commitment to Llandybie and the surrounding area, as we look to create further skilled jobs for people in our community.

“As the company celebrates the significant milestone of 60 years in business in 2025, this development will mark a new chapter in the company’s history. The unit will allow us to meet our growth aspirations and to continue to be a major contributor to the local economy, and to help us to develop Welsh manufacturing across UK and World markets.”

Beloved qube Restaurant in Tenby to reopen as Tudor Mount Gastro Bar

THE QUbE REsTAURANT, a cherished culinary landmark in Tenby’s Tudor square, has announced its closure as it undergoes an exciting transformation into Tudor Mount Gastro bar. The family-run establishment, known for its awardwinning service and commitment to local produce, has been a staple in the community for years.

The Qube has long been celebrated for its seasonal menus, featuring fresh fish and shellfish during the summer months and hearty dishes in the winter,

all sourced from local businesses. The restaurant also offered exclusive private dining in its subterranean cellar, accommodating up to 18 guests in a cozy, rustic setting.

The new Tudor Mount Gastro Bar is set to open its doors on Valentine’s Day, 14th February. The community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this beloved establishment’s journey.

For updates on the transformation and upcoming opening, patrons are encouraged to follow the restaurant’s official channels.

£13.7m to transform services and cut ADHD and autism waiting times

A FURTHER £13.7m will be invested to improve neurodivergence services and reduce waiting times for autism and ADHD assessments across wales.

Demand for neurodivergence services has rapidly grown in recent years, with increased awareness of neurodivergent conditions leading to thousands of people seeking assessments and support.

The new funding will extend the work of the National Neurodivergence Improvement Programme to transform services and support the National Neurodivergence Team until March 2027, building on the £12m invested over the past three years and £3m to reduce the longest waiting times for children’s assessments in November.

Marking the start of Children’s Mental Health Week (February 3-9), Mental Health and Wellbeing Minister Sarah Murphy said the new funding will help to transform neurodivergence services over the next two years.

“We know radical change is needed in this sector and we are working with the NHS and services to improve long-

term support for neurodivergent children, adults and their families,” she said.

“In the face of unprecedented demand for both diagnosis and treatment, we have made significant progress in developing integrated services.

“This further investment will help reduce assessment waiting times while ensuring sustainable support is available for those who need it.”

The Neurodivergence Improvement Programme has already delivered substantial improvements, including: Extended workforce training

across health, social care, education and specialisms

Piloted innovative needsled profiling tools Enhanced data collection and reporting systems Established stronger collaborative relationships between organisations Piloted new integrated service delivery models

Held an all-Wales accelerated design event

The West Glamorgan Neurodiverse Board’s Myth Busting project is an example of a new support service, which promotes a needs-led, strengths-

based approach to supporting neurodivergent pupils, moving away from diagnosis-dependent support.

Through initiatives like Time to Talk sessions, resource materials and digital content, it equips schools and parents with practical tools and strategies to create more inclusive learning environments.

The Minister added: “Our focus is on creating a needsled approach that provides early help and support, while working to reduce waiting times. This investment demonstrates our commitment to developing sustainable, integrated services that better serve neurodivergent people across Wales.”

Julie Davies, chair of the West Glamorgan Neurodiverse Programme and Head of Adult and Children’s Services at Swansea Council, said:

“We are delighted to hear about the extension of the Neurodivergence Programme. The continued funding will be instrumental in addressing the specific needs of individuals, our endeavours to reduce waiting times, and developing innovative approaches to support neurodiverse communities.”

Winter challenge ‘reduced hospital discharge delays’, says Welsh Government

A 50-DAY challenge aimed at helping more people return home from hospital is showing encouraging results, Health secretary Jeremy Miles has said.

The initiative was designed to improve cooperation between the NHS and local councils, ensuring the right support is in place to help people stay well or recover at home.

REDUCiNG DELAYs

Health boards and local authorities implemented a 10-point action plan to cut discharge delays. The focus was on the 25% of patients facing the longest hospital stays, ensuring tailored support was in place to help them leave hospital safely.

The Welsh Government has provided £19 million to sustain progress beyond the challenge period, increasing reablement and domiciliary care services

to help more people stay well at home.

Latest figures show December marked the fourth consecutive month of reduced hospital discharge delays, continuing a downward trend since April 2024. There has been a 14% improvement in delays since March 2024.

Of the 395 patients identified with long discharge delays, more than half (225 people) were discharged by the end of December. Among the remaining 170, 80.5% now have agreed plans to either return home or move to a care facility.

PERsONAL iMPACT

Some of the most significant reductions have been seen in waiting times for joint assessments and the start of reablement care packages.

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles and Minister for Children and Social Care Dawn

Bowden recently met Rachel Ponting, from Mountain Ash, who suffered a major stroke at 48. She spent four months in hospital before receiving support from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s reablement team, which helped her regain independence.

“Reablement is a personalised programme that helps people rebuild their strength and skills after hospital discharge,” Miles said. “Rachel’s story highlights the huge impact these teams can have.”

Rachel, who has worked hard on her recovery, now requires only two daily care visits, down from four.

“The support I’ve had from the reablement team has been fantastic,” she said. “They’ve given me confidence and helped me regain my abilities.

I’ve learned how to stand on my own again, to walk, to cook.

I am very grateful for all the help I’ve had.”

CALLs FOR CONTiNUED ACTiON

Health Secretary Miles acknowledged the initial success but urged health boards and social care providers to keep up the momentum.

“There is still a lot more to do to reduce delayed discharges and help people stay well at home,” he said. “Health boards and social care partners must continue working together to implement the 10 key policies and actions that have the most impact.”

Minister Dawn Bowden added: “Reablement is an essential part of a more sustainable health and social care system. It can help people stay well in their community and prevent hospital admissions. The work of teams like the one in Rhondda Cynon Taf is making a real difference, and I thank them for all they do.”

Mind and Citizens Advice support those struggling with money and mental health

MiND CYMRU and Citizens Advice Cymru have teamed up to help people struggling with financial difficulties and their mental health, encouraging them to seek support.

Throughout January, the two organisations are offering joint advice and guidance in response to the ongoing financial pressures facing people in Wales.

An online campaign has been launched to raise awareness of the support available, including help with managing finances and claiming benefits related to mental health issues. As part of the initiative, social media videos featuring frontline Citizens Advice advisers will encourage people to come forward for assistance.

Samantha Fletcher, a debt adviser at Citizens Advice Merthyr Tydfil, said: “You’d be really surprised at the sense of relief people feel once they’ve come into an appointment and sorted out their finances. So, we would really encourage you to take that first step.”

A report by Mind Cymru, The Big Mental Health Report 2024, found that financial worries were impacting the mental health of 44% of people in Wales, with many struggling to maintain employment. The report also highlighted that living standards in Wales had not improved since 2023, with financial

struggles becoming the “new normal” for many households.

Meanwhile, Citizens Advice Cymru’s latest report, Reaching Crisis Point: The Story in Wales, found that financial hardship is no longer an unexpected, short-term crisis but an ongoing struggle for many. The report detailed how increasing numbers of people in Wales are unable to afford heating or feed their families.

PROviDiNG PRACTiCAL sUPPORT

Mind Cymru and Citizens Advice Cymru will continue working together until the end of January, offering support to those facing financial difficulties. This includes information on managing money, dealing with debt, claiming benefits, and informing household service providers about mental health-related challenges.

Simon Hatch, Director of Citizens Advice Cymru, said: “Last year, we helped over 123,000 people across Wales with a range of issues, including benefits, debt, crisis support, housing, employment, and consumer rights. Many people face multiple issues at once, and we work with them to find a way forward.

“We know that life’s worries affect our mental health, making it even harder to deal with bills, access support, and protect our rights. Help is available, and I encourage people to reach out.”

Sue O’Leary, Executive Director at Mind Cymru, added: “Not having enough money, or feeling like we don’t have control over our finances, poses a real risk to our mental health. It can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, fatigue, and anxiety when it comes to managing money.

“It’s also why talking about money can feel difficult, but it’s important to remember that many people share similar struggles. There are places you can turn to for help.

“This is why we are working with Citizens Advice Cymru to provide practical and emotional support, helping people take control of their finances while safeguarding their mental well-being.”

For more information on managing mental health and money, visit www. Mind.org.uk/Money.

Demand on NHS continues to rise as services struggle

THE DEMAND for health and care services in wales has reached unprecedented levels, with recordbreaking emergency calls and growing pressures across the NHs

In December, an average of 217 immediately life-threatening calls were made daily to the ambulance service— the highest on record. This trend has continued to rise steadily over time.

Latest figures also reveal that in November, the number of open patient pathways increased from just over 802,100 to nearly 802,300, the highest ever recorded. However, management data suggests that while there were nearly 802,300 open patient pathways, the number of individual patients on treatment waiting lists was around 619,100, a slight drop from 620,300 the previous month.

Compared to last year, there have been improvements in waiting times for diagnostic services, therapies, and cancer treatments.

‘UNPRECEDENTED DEMAND’

Responding to the latest NHS performance figures, Darren Hughes, director of the Welsh NHS Confederation, said:

“Demand on NHS services remains historically high, with some areas facing record-breaking pressures month after month. More people are falling ill and requiring increasingly complex care and treatment.”

He acknowledged a slight increase in patient pathways (by 200) but noted that this was a much smaller rise than in previous months. He credited the tireless efforts of NHS staff and targeted initiatives aimed at reducing waiting lists.

Despite some reductions in the number of medically fit patients unable to leave hospital, major challenges remain, impacting capacity and patient flow. Social care services are also under extreme pressure, facing staff shortages and budget constraints while dealing with surging demand.

Emergency departments are feeling the strain, with ambulance arrivals and patient numbers reflecting a wider system under pressure. Hughes pointed out that official statistics fail to capture the rising demand on primary, community, and mental health services.

Despite advanced winter planning, virtual wards, discharge hubs, and same-day emergency care units, Hughes warned that the NHS and social

care system is struggling with outdated infrastructure, limited budgets, and workforce shortages.

“Without a shift towards long-term planning and funding, health and care leaders will struggle to break this vicious cycle,” he said.

He also highlighted the severe flu

season and rising cases of respiratory illnesses, which have further strained services.

“We want to thank NHS staff for their continued monumental efforts in caring for the people of Wales under extremely difficult circumstances,” he added.

Welsh Conservatives back call for Wales-wide grooming gang inquiry

THE wELsH CONsERvATivEs have thrown their support behind a petition launched by Emily vaughn, a survivor of grooming gang exploitation, calling for a wales-wide inquiry into the issue.

The move follows mounting concerns over the prevalence of child sexual exploitation in Wales, with campaigners arguing that the problem is more widespread than previously acknowledged

PETiTiON FOR JUsTiCE

Emily Vaughn, who has bravely spoken out about being trafficked and exploited by gangs in Wales, initiated the petition to the Welsh Parliament. It calls on the Welsh Government to commission a comprehensive inquiry into the extent of sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.

“I was the victim of sexual exploitation by grooming gangs. I know that this practice is more prevalent than the authorities acknowledge,” Vaughn wrote in the petition. “I believe the Welsh Government should undertake an inquiry to see how widespread the problem is and to support victims in Wales.”

The petition has already secured over 600 signatures. Under Senedd rules, petitions exceeding 250 signatures are considered by the Petitions Committee, while those reaching 10,000 may be debated in the Senedd.

wELsH CONsERvATivEs’

sUPPORT

Darren Millar MS, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, has urged the public to sign the petition, insisting that a thorough investigation is essential.

“There is clear and concerning evidence of the sexual exploitation of young girls by grooming gangs here in Wales, but what we don’t know is the full extent of the problem,” Millar said.

He stressed the need for cross-party cooperation to ensure accountability.

“We owe it to Emily and other brave victims to leave no stone unturned in investigating this problem and bringing the evil perpetrators of such crimes to justice. That is why we are

backing her petition for a Waleswide inquiry.”

CALLs FOR A NATiONAL iNQUiRY

Concerns over grooming gangs have been raised in various parts of the UK, including Swansea. Millar dismissed reassurances from local authorities and police forces that grooming gangs do not operate in their areas, arguing that only a Wales-wide inquiry can provide an accurate picture of the issue.

NATiONAL CONTEXT

The campaign for a Welsh inquiry comes amid broader national discussions about grooming gangs and child sexual

exploitation. In January 2025, the UK Home Secretary announced a £10 million initiative for local inquiries into grooming gangs, alongside a “rapid” review into the scale of the problem across the UK.

Vaughn’s campaign underscores the need for regionspecific investigations. Her own experience of being trafficked from South Wales to Telford as a child highlights the cross-border nature of these crimes and the need for coordinated action.

As the petition gains traction, the Welsh Conservatives’ endorsement marks a significant step towards securing an inquiry. The coming weeks are expected to bring further debate and increased public awareness of the issue.

Survivour Emily Vaughn has written a book about the abuse she endured (Image: Herald)

Plaid Cymru warns Brexit has cost Welsh economy up to £4bn

PLAiD CYMRU called for wales to rejoin the single market and align with EU law, warning brexit has cost the welsh economy up to £4bn.

Adam Price led a debate to mark Friday’s fifth anniversary of the UK exiting the EU in 2020 after the referendum in which Wales voted 52.53% “leave” and 47.47% “remain” in 2016.

The former Plaid Cymru leader said: “I think it would be magical thinking, wouldn’t it, it would be stretching credulity, to say that Brexit has been a triumph, the kind of step change that was promised to us at the time of the referendum.

“Nor has it been the complete cataclysm in totality that some had feared. The real picture is mixed. The problem lies in the make-up of that mixture.”

Mr Price told the Senedd that London and the south East weathered Brexit relatively well while the Welsh economy has lost out to the tune of billions of pounds.

‘NObODY KNOws’

Urging the Welsh Government to back membership of the single market and customs union, he asked: “What is Wales’s European strategy? Well, the problem is this: nobody knows –we don’t know, the UK doesn’t know, Europe doesn’t know.”

Mr Price called on ministers to commit to aligning Welsh and European law, pointing out that Northern Ireland automatically keeps pace with EU law through the Windsor framework.

He said Scotland continues to do so voluntarily through its continuity act – an idea adopted from Wales that was later repealed by the Senedd.

In the wake of the referendum, Steffan Lewis, the former Plaid Cymru Senedd member who died aged 34 in 2019, proposed preserving EU law and maintaining regulatory alignment.

Mr Price said this would ensure world-leading standards in areas like the environment, help businesses access markets as seamlessly as possible and send a pro-European message.

‘vEGETAbLEs TO viAGRA’

Darren Millar, who became leader of the Tory group last month, told the Senedd that Brexit resulted in a “huge repatriation” of powers to the UK and Cardiff Bay.

He said: “We were told Brexit would lead to rising unemployment, a collapse in house prices and shortages of every imaginable commodity, from fresh fruit and vegetables to Viagra. Yet what

happened? Well, the prophets of doom were completely wrong.”

Mr Millar accused Plaid Cymru of hypocrisy: on one hand calling for independence but, on the other, wanting to “shackle” Wales to the “barmy and bloated bureaucracy” of the EU.

He told the Senedd: “There’s an inconvenient truth that Plaid and Labour would like us to ignore, and it is this: the people of Wales spoke very clearly on this issue. They voted to leave the EU. Plaid Cymru, the socalled party of Wales, wanted to ignore their voices.”

‘TORY JACKANORY’

Accused of hypocrisy for retaining EU citizenship, Mr Millar hit back: “I have held an Irish passport for decades, long before the Brexit referendum. And I find it contemptuous, frankly.”

His Conservative colleague James Evans accused Plaid Cymru of being out of touch, clinging to the past and refusing to respect a decision made by the people of Wales.

Plaid Cymru’s Llŷr Gruffydd responded: “Well, that’s the best episode of Tory Jackanory I’ve heard in a long time, I have to say. Honestly. Honestly. The brass neck of Conservatives telling the rest of us that we’re out of touch. Really. Really.”

Labour’s Alun Davies told the Senedd he fully agreed with the Plaid Cymru motion and he was disappointed

with the UK Government’s position.

He said: “We need, as a parliament and as politicians, to be honest with people and to speak clearly about what we want to see. Brexit has diminished Wales. It has damaged Wales.”

‘REGRETTAbLE’

Responding to the debate on January 29, Rebecca Evans said Wales remains committed to maintaining a strong relationship with the EU despite a “hard, chaotic, Tory Brexit”.

Ms Evans, who was appointed economy secretary in September, told the chamber that the Welsh Government has maintained a presence in Brussels to further the country’s interests.

She hailed the Taith international exchange programme set up following the previous UK Government’s “deeply regrettable” decision to quit the Erasmus scheme.

Mr Price pointed out that Taith’s budget has been cut by £1.6m in the Welsh Government’s draft spending plans for the new financial year.

Senedd members voted 4011 against the motion, with one abstention.

The Tories’ amendment was similarly voted down, 27-14 with 11 abstaining, before the Welsh Government’s amended version of the motion was agreed by the same margin.

Commenting on the fifth anniversary of the UK leaving the EU, Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster Spokesperson David Chadwick MP said: “Five years on from Brexit, Welsh companies are suffering under mountains of red tape and trade barriers. Our small and medium-sized businesses in particular are struggling to cope with the increased costs.

“These costs are also been passed onto Welsh customers through inflation.

“We must repair the trading relationship with our EU neighbours that was so badly ruined under the Conservatives. Their deal has been an utter disaster for our country – for farmers, fishers and small businesses.

“The UK needs to lead in Europe and the world. We cannot rely on Donald Trump – a man who has threatened to invade a NATO ally – to secure our continent. Strengthening ties of diplomacy and security with the EU is urgent.

“So far the Labour Government has failed to show the urgency and ambition needed to fix our relationship with Europe. Ministers must be in a parallel universe if they think we can grow the economy without boosting trade with our nearest neighbours.

“That is why the Liberal Democrats are calling for a new UK-EU customs union deal that will massively boost growth in Wales and give us the best possible hand to play against President Trump.”

Liberal Democrats are renewing calls for the government to implement proper community policing as new statistics reveal the extent of unsolved crime in the year ending september 2024.

The figures were revealed by the Home Office’s own statistics on crime outcomes, released last week.

2,136,252 crimes went unsolved across England and Wales in the year ending September 2024 - equivalent to 5,852 crimes going unsolved every day. This accounted for nearly 40% of all crimes recorded that year.

Meanwhile, just 363,843 crimes resulted in a suspect being charged or summonsedaccounting for less than 7% of all cases.

The number of unsolved crimes have remained consistently high for a number of years, with 2,183,237 crimes going unsolved in the year ending September 2023.

The figures also revealed that shoplifting offences rose by 23% to a whopping 492,914 offences, this is compared with the previous year (402,220

W ITH ANDREW LyE

offences), and is the highest figure since current police recording practices began for the year ending March 2003.

The Liberal Democrats have slammed the previous Conservative Government for the figures, arguing that years of ineffective resourcing have left local police forces overstretched, underresourced and unable to focus on solving neighbourhood crime.

It comes after it was revealed that Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) numbers across England and Wales had been slashed by a further 3% in the last year.

The Liberal Democrats are calling for a return to proper community policing, where officers are visible, trusted and focused on solving the crimes that impact local communities the most.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Home Affairs Lisa Smart MP said:

“Thousands of victims are being left without the justice they deserve every single day. The government promised to fix this - but these figures suggest the hard work has barely begun.

“The last Conservative government destroyed neighbourhood policing and left our communities to pay the price.

“The government must urgently deliver the change they have promised. Liberal Democrats will keep pushing for a return to proper community policing, keeping our neighbourhoods safe and reducing crime with more bobbies out on the beat.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Welsh Lib Dems call for online crime agency to protect online shoppers

A FREEDOM of information request by the welsh Liberal Democrats revealed that in just one year, £2.5 million was lost to online shopping fraud in wales.

David Chadwick, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, is urging the Government to set up a new Online Crime Agency to tackle online fraud. This comes after data shows that almost 70,000 cases across the UK were reported in the 2023/24 financial year.

Victims lost on average £827, which is up a whopping 18% from the previous years. Shockingly, the data also reveals that over £154,000 is lost to online fraud every single day.

In Wales, 3,318 cases of online shopping fraud were reported in the 2023/24 financial year, adding up to a whopping £2,529,017 worth of losses.

David Chadwick, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for

Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe said:

“Victims in Wales have been left short-changed and left vulnerable to opportunistic fraudsters. We urgently need action.

“The previous Conservative government completely failed to act. They were asleep at the

wheel when it came to online fraud.

“That is why the Liberal Democrats are calling for the Government to set up a new Online Crime Agency to tackle fraud, give victims the justice they deserve and allow police the time to focus on keeping our communities safe.”

Eluned Morgan to contest new Ceredigion Pembrokeshire seat

FiRsT MiNisTER Eluned

Morgan has announced she will stand for election in the newly created Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire constituency next year.

Addressing Mid and South Pembrokeshire Labour Party members in Haverfordwest on Friday, the Welsh Labour leader emphasized her strong local ties, with family roots in the St Davids Peninsula and Cardigan.

Morgan has represented both counties in the Senedd since 2016 as part of the wider Mid and

West Wales region. The 2026 Senedd elections will introduce a new voting system, where voters choose a party rather than an individual candidate. Six Members of the Senedd (MSs) will be elected to represent Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.

Confirming her candidacy, Morgan wrote to Labour members across the region, highlighting her experience, which includes serving as a Member of the European Parliament more than 30 years ago.

She said: “As we build on past

achievements, I am determined to represent Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion in the years ahead. My family has deep roots in the St Davids Peninsula, and this is the place I call home.

“With big changes ahead, Wales needs committed politicians who will champion our communities, public services, and economy. I will bring my experience and passion to stand up for our rural and coastal communities, proving that politics can drive meaningful and lasting change.”

Miles slams Farage’s ‘open to anything’ NHS comment

Health secretary criticises Reform UK’s stance on healthcare

JEREMY Miles MS, Wales’ Health Secretary, has strongly criticised Nigel Farage’s suggestion that the NHS could be replaced with an insurancebased system.

Farage, leader of Reform UK, told LBC he was “open to anything” regarding the future of Britain’s healthcare, pointing to France’s insurance model as an example. His remarks have reignited concerns about Reform UK’s stance on the NHS and the implications for its future.

Miles, who took over as Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care in Wales on September 11, 2024, dismissed Farage’s comments, reaffirming the Welsh Government’s commitment to maintaining the NHS as free at the point of use. He underscored the NHS’s deeprooted connection to Wales, reminding voters that Aneurin Bevan, the architect of the NHS, was Welsh.

Labour has seized on Farage’s remarks, using them to attack Reform UK ahead of the next general election. The party is highlighting what it sees as the risks of Reform UK’s healthcare policies, particularly as it gains popularity in the polls.

Miles framed a vote for Reform UK as a vote against the NHS, appealing to Welsh

voters’ emotional and practical attachment to the health service.

His comments are part of a wider political battle over the future of healthcare in the UK, with different parties proposing various solutions to address the NHS’s challenges.

With healthcare policy

Speaking on the For Wales, See Wales podcast on January 23, 2025, Drakeford argued that the country is “over-hospitalised” and that hospitals “suck resources” from the wider health service. He suggested that, if starting from scratch, he would cut the number of hospitals in Wales and redirect 50% more funding into primary care services.

His remarks have sparked a fierce backlash from opposition parties and healthcare professionals. James Evans, the Welsh Conservatives’ shadow health secretary, said Drakeford’s statement exposed “Labour’s disconnect after 26 years in power.” He added: “Our NHS is bogged down by excessive bureaucracy and bloated management. It’s time for fundamental reform to prioritise patient care and fix our NHS.”

The controversy comes amid a growing crisis in NHS Wales,

shaping up as a key election issue, the debate over the NHS is set to intensify in the coming months.

Drakeford sparks NHS bed controversy

The debate over the future of NHS Wales has been further inflamed by comments from Mark Drakeford, Wales’ Finance Minister and former First Minister, who claimed that Wales has “too many hospitals and too many beds.”

BLuE VIEW

PAuL D

“it’s the economy, stupid.”

In 1992, Special Advisor to Bill Clinton, James Carville coined the phrase “It’s the economy, stupid” when asked about priorities during the Presidential election. The fact remains that the economy is a priority for governments and last week, the UK Government announced a series of major announcements on infrastructure projects in a bid to win some plaudits after delivering a tough budget for businesses in the autumn. Policies like hiking up National Insurance contributions, along with a 6.7% increase in the National Living Wage were met with stiff criticism from businesses, who as a result will find it more difficult to invest and recruit.

the A40 to be dualled – a project that Welsh Government Ministers haven’t even bothered to explore, despite its clear benefit to the economy. It’s becoming clearer and clearer that my calls are falling on deaf ears but it’s this type of investment that will attract major businesses to Pembrokeshire and yet there’s no sense of ambition or any drive to undertake these sorts of projects.

with waiting lists hitting a record 802,268. Two-year waits now stand at 24,361 in Wales— compared to just 151 in England.

Darren Millar, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, called for clarity on the Welsh Government’s position on hospital capacity, calling Drakeford’s remarks “outrageous” in the Senedd. The Royal College of Emergency Medicine in Wales also criticised his comments, warning that urgent and emergency care services require more investment, not fewer beds.

First Minister Eluned Morgan appeared to contradict Drakeford’s position, stating that the Welsh Government would have welcomed the opportunity to build more hospitals but was restricted by funding constraints.

As the NHS debate intensifies, the Labour-led Welsh Government faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance on hospital provision and address the worsening backlog of patients awaiting treatment.

It’s hoped that following the announcement of infrastructure projects at Westminster, the Welsh Government may be inspired to do the same and offer the economy some much-needed momentum. In recent years infrastructure projects have been stalled and there has been little investment for things like road projects and transport infrastructure which has hindered, not helped our economy.

And make no mistake, the Welsh economy is in need of some serious help. Welsh businesses already face the highest business rates in Great Britain and business rate relief was slashed from 75% to 40% last year, making it even more difficult for businesses to survive.

Therefore, governments must work together to prioritise the economy and infrastructure investment has to be a part of that. We need to see a strong statement from Ministers in Cardiff Bay that Wales is open for business and actions need to be taken to create conditions for businesses to grow.

I’ve repeatedly called for the Welsh Government to invest in the road network in Pembrokeshire and in particular, I’ve called for

We are seeing small scale road maintenance projects take place though, like this month in Newport where the A487 has been closed for a period of eight weeks. Whilst maintenance works are of course, necessary, the pain inflicted on local businesses doesn’t have to be. One business has claimed that the closure is costing them hundreds of pounds and another has expressed concern that the closure could go on for longer than expected, which is causing worry and frustration. The Welsh Government could support businesses where there is evidence that the road closure is directly affecting their business. I’ve raised this at the Senedd and I’ll continue to do so, until the Welsh Government do the right thing.

In the meantime, we can only hope that there’s a Special Advisor in the Welsh Government like James Carville who will remind Ministers that the economy must be a priority. Our economy needs an injection of innovation and a desire to be bold and invest in our infrastructure, before it’s too late.

Against Farage’s proposal: Jeremy Miles Ms, wales’ Health secretary

Controversial figure: Mark Drakeford MS

SEND youR LETTERS To: THE EDIToR, 11 HAMILToN TERRACE, MILFoRD HAVEN, PEMBRokESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL uS AT: editor@herald.email

RS & NOTIC e S

Lfundamental issues remain unchanged.

THE GREEN AIR BuBBLE

DEAR siR,

way back in 1954, willy Ley wrote about the Aerogenerator (now misnamed a “wind turbine”) in his book Engineers’ Dreams. The concept of wind-powered electricity generation was proposed as early as 1925, with a small-scale attempt made in salach, Germany, in 1941. Around the same time, the U.s. Federal Power Commission funded studies into aerogenerators, but the instability of wind made the idea too risky. Nearly a century later, nothing has changed.

For solar power, Ley noted that its first recorded use was in 1625, when it powered toys. By 1864, the first sun-heated steam engine had been built, leading to limited applications of “solar boiler” plants. Despite its low cost, solar energy has always suffered from inefficiency due to intermittent supply and the massive storage costs required. Today, clever branding has rebranded industrial power stations as “farms” and “parks,” but the

The reality is simple: we cannot control the weather to generate enough wind or solar electricity to meet national demand. The UK’s growing reliance on solar “parks,” wind “farms,” thousands of miles of new pylons, substations, and battery storage sites will never provide the 24/7, 365-day power required for the widespread adoption of electric cars or the increasing number of energy-hungry data centres. Those with “smart” meters—another misleading term, like “smart” motorways— will endure power cuts to keep data centres operational. Meanwhile, the countryside will be permanently transformed, covered in infrastructure that cannot be undone. Fields, hedgerows, water tables, and wildlife will vanish, replaced by concrete and chemicals. Everything will change.

A LEGACY OF wAsTE

In 20 years, the UK will be left with a decaying landscape of industrial debris. Hundreds of thousands of unrecyclable turbine blades will rot alongside towers embedded in billions of tonnes of concrete. Millions of Chinese-made solar mirrors, mounted on concrete slabs, will need disposal. The vast battery farms—each storing temporary

Recognising lithium’s limitations, China and Japan are investing heavily in sodiumion batteries, which are safer, cleaner, unaffected by cold temperatures, and extracted cheaply from seawater. China has already launched its first large-scale sodium-ion energy storage facility, paving the way for next-generation electric vehicles. Meanwhile, Toyota and Nissan have developed lighter, safer solid-state batteries with longer ranges, while China’s Nio has already commercially rolled them out.

Lithium is becoming obsolete—so why is the Western world pouring trillions into lithium-based renewables when cheaper, cleaner alternatives are emerging?

THE UK’s FUTiLE GREEN GAMbLE

energy—have already caused inextinguishable fires in the U.S. and Australia due to the flammability of lithium batteries. What happens when thousands of these massive shippingcontainer-sized batteries reach the end of their lifespan?

The foreign corporations behind these projects will never fulfil promises to remediate the land. When the subsidies run dry, ownership will shift to offshore shell companies that will dissolve overnight, leaving Britain with an environmental disaster. Do politicians ever think beyond the next election? These so-called “green” schemes will create the largest peacetime environmental catastrophe in history.

China’s Lead—and Retreat—from Lithium China dominates the lithium supply chain, controlling 80% of global lithium chemical production despite holding only 7% of the world’s lithium reserves. Yet, on January 29, 2025, China urged its citizens to switch from lithium-ion e-bikes to safer, sealed lead-acid (SLA) models, prioritising safety at home while continuing to export lithium-based products abroad. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries increase the weight of electric cars by 40–50%, making replacement batteries prohibitively expensive and undermining second-hand demand.

The UK contributes less than 0.75% of global emissions, while China, India, and the U.S. produce a staggering 34%. China alone emits 15 billion tonnes of carbon annually— one-quarter of the global total— while continuously building coal power stations alongside its wind and solar farms. Why? Because intermittent renewables cannot meet growing electricity demands.

Britain, a small, resourcepoor nation with a shrinking industrial base, is shackled by unpayable national debt. Decades ago, government revenue came from nationalised industries and British firms paying taxes at home. Now, it comes almost entirely from taxpayers, while foreignowned corporations extract profits offshore. Meanwhile, the media fixates on GDP—a meaningless measure when most profits are repatriated— while ignoring our ballooning national debt.

The UK cannot afford to waste trillions on outdated technology in pursuit of an unreachable net zero target. If we continue on this path, we face economic collapse. The 1720 South Sea Bubble will pale in comparison to what future historians may call the “Green Air Bubble” or “Green Power Bubble”—take your pick.

Terry breverton Penarth

PICTuRe OF THe weeK!

Pembroke castle by Drew buckley

Death Notices

ELIZABETH ANN HoWELLS

TENBy

ELizAbETH (Lizzie) Howells passed away peacefully at withybush Hospital on 26th January aged 77.

Elizabeth was the proprietor of The Park Hotel, North Cliff, Tenby. Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband Roger and will be greatly missed by daughter Jenny and husband Mark, her son William and wife Sophie, and grandchildren Mia, Emmie, Tilly, Harry, Hennie & Harper.

The funeral service takes place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Thursday, 20th February at 2.30pm.

There will be family flowers only with donations in memory of Elizabeth, if desired, made payable to Wales Air Ambulance c/o Funeral Directors Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd The Old Rectory, The Norton, Tenby, SA70 8AB or via www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

P H y LLIS Mo RGAN

Ro CH

PEACEFULLY on 14th January, Phyllis, aged 73 years.

Dearly loved sister of Des.She will be sadly missed by her relatives and friends. Funeral service Thursday 6th February at 12.00 noon at St. Mary’s Church, Roch.

Donations, if desired, for either Cancer Research UK or St. Mary’s Church, Roch, kindly received by Mr David Thomas, 26 West Lane Close, Keeston, Haverfordwest, SA62 6EW.

Enquiries to W.G. Bernard Mathias & Daughter (01437) 720537

j oAN W ILLIAMS

W HITLAND .

Peacefully on Thursday 16th January at withybush Hospital, aged 89 years, Joan of, Trevaughan Lodge Road, whitland.

Beloved Mum of Sandra, Jenny, Julie, Neil, Amanda, Vivian, Karen and the late Fran, dear sister of Don, sister-in-law of Stella and a devoted grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother.

Public funeral service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Friday 7th February at 10:00am.

Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if so desired, may be made to Diabetes UK via www. pefd.co.uk or c/o Peter Evans Funeral Directors, Rosewood, Plashett, Laugharne, Carmarthen, SA33 4TT. Tel: 01994 427 261.

M ARGARET Coo PER

S T.DAVIDS

PEACEFULLY at her home in st.Davids on 16th January, aged 103 years.

Beloved wife of the late Leslie. Funeral service 12.00 noon on Tuesday 11th February in the Lady Chapel, St.Davids Cathedral.

Enquiries to W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter (01437) 720537

H AR o LD T H o MAS

P EMBR ok E

THE death occurred peacefully on saturday 18th January 2025 at withybush Hospital following

a short illness of Mr Harold L.J. Thomas, aged 97 years of East back, Pembroke.

Dearly loved Harold, who was a retired Postman at Pembroke Dock will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.

The funeral service will take place on Saturday 15th February 2025 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11.30am.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if so desired for Dementia Research UK c/o E.C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke (01646) 682680 and Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

W ILLIAM

( j o HN ) Ro WE

T ENB y.

THE family are sad to announce the death of william ‘John’ Rowe (“Jughead”) who passed away peacefully on saturday 25th January after a long and courageous battle against Alzheimer’s disease. He was 71 years old.

He will be greatly missed by his wife Elaine and children Jess, Nick and Jo. Son-in-law and daughter-in-law Bobby and Coral and grandchildren Noa, Gweni and Vivi. He also leaves to mourn his sister Jayne, brothers Tim and Chris, sister-in-laws, nephews and nieces and further family on both sides.

The family would also like to extend special thanks to all the wonderful nurses and carers who cared for John over the last 8 years whilst he resided

at - St Nons, Haverfordwest; Cwm Gwendraeth, Upper Tumble, and Park House Court, Tenby.

The funeral service will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Friday 21st February at 11.30am followed by a celebration of life at Tenby Rugby Club.

There will be family flowers only with donations in memory of John to Alzheimer’s Research UK c/o Funeral Directors Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, The Old Rectory, The Norton, Tenby SA70 8AB or via www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

j o HN A RN o LD G Ly NDWR H ARRIES

Tu FT o N

J OHN passed away suddenly at home on the 8th of January 2025 aged 69 years. b eloved son to the late Thomas and b renda, dear brother of the late s heila and her husband Myrddin, respected uncle to Jennifer and her husband Jeremy and great uncle to Catherine. He will be sadly missed by all who knew hi m.

A private family funeral will take place.

Family flowers only.

Donations in memory of John for DPJ Foundation can be sent directly to; DPJ Foundation, Units 2 & 3, Rural Business Development Centre, Carmarthen Livestock Market, Llysonnen Road, Carmarthen, SA33 5DR.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

SeRVICeS

CARAVANS

SeRVICeS

SPORT

Garan Croft secures second professional victory

GARAN CROFT extended his professional record to 2-0 with a dominant points victory in London on saturday night (Feb 2).

The rising Welsh boxer featured on the undercard of Adam Azim vs Sergey Lipinets at Wembley Arena, where he outclassed Dmitri Protkunas over four rounds.

Despite securing a comfortable win, Croft was unable to replicate the explosive technical knockout he achieved in his professional debut last December in Waterford, where he stopped Ermin Sali in just 15 seconds.

Reflecting on his performance, Croft said: “As time has passed, I have been more pleased with my performance. Watching it back, my opponent didn’t give me much to work with. He was very negative and defensively-minded.

“But overall, it was a mature performance. We will see the benefits of those extra rounds when I have my third fight. It was quite exciting to be in London for a pretty good show on Sky Sports. On the Thursday, we had a press conference, and there was a big build-up to enjoy.

“Nothing has been confirmed yet, but me and Ioan are both likely to be back in

the ring in April.”

Before that, Ioan Croft is set to make his return to the ring on 1st March in a homecoming bout at Vale Arena, Cardiff. In his own professional debut, he made a statement by knocking out Bartosz Glowacki in the first round on the same night Garan secured his debut victory.

Garan expressed his excitement for his brother’s upcoming fight, saying: “I’m really excited for Ioan’s fight in Cardiff. Two hundred people from West Wales have already bought tickets to attend the show. The response has been mega.

“I’m more excited for the fans because Ioan is going to produce a great performance. Anyone who is interested in a ticket can contact me or Ioan.”

The Croft twins made headlines at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Garan secured a bronze medal and Ioan took home gold. Both fighters are now being trained by former Lightweight World Champion Anthony Crolla as they progress in their professional careers. Garan currently competes at super welterweight, while Ioan is campaigning at middleweight.

Originally from Crymych, the twins honed their skills at Cardigan ABC and

have often spoken about the vital support they received from local businesses during their amateur careers. They have also shared the challenges they faced, including their reliance on their parents for transport to training sessions.

Beyond their success in the ring, the Croft brothers have also been active in supporting their local community. On 18th January, they helped raise over £17,000 for fellow Pembrokeshire athlete Mia Lloyd, a para-athlete aiming to compete in the next Commonwealth and Paralympic Games. The fundraising event, held at Hotel Plas Hyfryd in Narberth, featured a bespoke painting of the twins auctioned off alongside other prestigious items. Attendees also enjoyed a three-course meal and live music from The Dhogie Band. Their generous donation will go towards supporting Mia’s training costs as she pursues her sporting ambitions.

With their careers gaining momentum, both Garan and Ioan Croft continue to make waves in Welsh boxing, proving their talent not only in the ring but also in their dedication to giving back to their community.

RugbY

PREMiERsHiP DivisiON

Magnificent o tters Push Ponty All the Way N ARBERTH 13 – Po NT y PRIDD 16

Pontypridd arrived at Narberth with a boisterous and passionate fanbase, determined to extend their winning streak. However, they faced a much tougher challenge than expected as the Otters delivered a superb performance, coming close to upsetting the league leaders. Despite Narberth dominating much of the first half, Ponty’s solid defense kept them in contention, and they eventually clinched victory with two late penalties.

Narberth, who pushed hard for the lead throughout, even benefited from a controversial moment when Joe Davies’ try was wrongly awarded after a missed forward pass. Nevertheless, the home side remained resolute, leading 10-5 at halftime thanks to Harrison Griffiths’ fine solo effort and a well-taken dropped goal from Osian Evans.

Pontypridd rallied in the second half, reclaiming the lead through Louis Rochefort-Shugar’s try. The match was decided by Jonathon Reynolds’ 40-meter penalty, followed by Jacob Symes’ match-winning kick. Narberth earned a valuable bonus point and can take pride in a strong performance as they continue their fight for top-flight

survival.

CHAMPiONsHiP DivisiON

Great Comeback by Crymych

Secures Bonus Point Win

Go WERT o N 36 – C Ry M yCH 41

Crymych staged an incredible comeback victory at Gowerton, avenging a narrow earlier defeat. Ifan Davies was the star performer for the Preseli Men, scoring three tries, four conversions, and a penalty to contribute 26 points in the thrilling win.

Gowerton initially opened up a 14-point lead, with Tomos Lewis crossing for a brace of tries. However, Crymych fought back, leveling the score three times in the second half.

With Carwyn Phillips and the forward pack stepping up the intensity, Ifan Davies slotted a key penalty before completing his hat-trick to push his side ahead and secure a crucial victory.

The result lifted Crymych out of the relegation zone, while Gowerton remained in a precarious position near the bottom of the table.

DivisiON ONE (wEsT)

Seasiders’ Strong First Half

Secures Bonus Point Win yR H ENDy 24 – T ENB y uNITED 32

Tenby United strengthened their

promotion bid with a solid victory over Yr Hendy. A dominant first-half performance saw the Seasiders race into a 22-7 halftime lead, and despite a strong second-half push from the home side, Tenby held firm to secure a bonus-point win.

Outside half Lloyd Thomas fell short of reaching his 1,000 career points milestone, but Tenby still delivered an impressive display. Tom Edmonds and Liam Price controlled the midfield, while Joe Poole and Alex Jenkins stood out in the forward pack.

This victory kept Tenby’s promotion aspirations alive, while Yr Hendy struggled to recover from their sluggish start.

DivisiON TwO (wEsT)

Betws Bagged a Deserved Win Against Fishguard & Goodwick

B ETWS 24 – F ISHG uARD & G WIC k 10

Fishguard & Goodwick failed to replicate their recent strong performances as they fell to a disappointing defeat against Betws, who claimed just their third win of the season. Despite a competitive start, the Seagulls trailed 14-3 at the break and struggled to break down Betws’ defense in the second half.

Betws secured the win with tries

from Dan Baker, Anthony Evans, and Ryan Tancock, while Steffan Gillard added three conversions and a penalty. Fishguard’s only responses came through a Rhys Lewis try and a penalty from Marc Jones.

The Seagulls will now turn their attention to their upcoming KO Cup match against Tenby United as they seek to bounce back.

DivisiON THREE (wEsT)

Tycroes Take Revenge for o nly League Defeat

TyCR o ES 26 – C ARDIGAN 19

Tycroes avenged their only league defeat of the season with a hard-fought victory over Cardigan. A strong first-half display saw them race into a 19-0 lead, but they had to withstand a spirited second-half fightback from the visitors.

Elgan Griffiths, Sam Icke, and Connor Thomas crossed for Tycroes, while Aaron Evans and Aaron Tomkinson responded for Cardigan. Despite the visitors’ late surge, Tycroes held firm to claim the win.

Cardigan secured a losing bonus point for their efforts and will aim to build on their second-half performance in future fixtures. Meanwhile, Tycroes maintained their position at the top of the table with this crucial victory.

Teenage rally driver crowned top Welsh junior of 2024

A 16-YEAR-OLD rally driver has been named wales’ top junior competitor of 2024 after an impressive debut season.

Henri Cynwyl, a student at Pembrokeshire College, claimed the prestigious title in the F1000 British Rally Championship Series, which takes place across England and Wales. In addition to this remarkable achievement, he also secured the best rookie award and the driver’s choice award in his first year of competition.

Henri, who is currently training as an apprentice electrician with DJ Hoyland Electrical in Cardigan, expressed his gratitude for the support he has received.

“I’m just really chuffed with the support I’ve had,” he said. “Without my sponsors backing me every step of the way – financially and just picking up the phone, sending text messages and calling at the house, it would have been a real struggle.”

His success doesn’t end there. At his motor club’s annual dinner last month, Henri also won the Junior Autotest Championship trophy for the third consecutive year, further cementing his

status as a rising star in the sport.

Looking ahead to 2025, Henri is gearing up for an exciting season, which will kick off at Snetterton in February. He will also travel to Sweden for a two-day ice rally training session, an experience that will further hone his skills behind the wheel.

Reflecting on his time in the F1000 Championship, Henri spoke warmly about the camaraderie within the rallying community.

“The rally world is like one big family; we all help each other and support each other. I’ve made life-long friends in the F1000 Championship

with fellow competitors from across the country, and we all want to see one another doing well and getting that podium finish.”

Henri has benefited from the guidance of international rally driver James Williams from Newcastle Emlyn, as well as Williams’ father, Mark, of UK-Vans at Castle Motors. Both have played a key role in mentoring him throughout the 2024 season.

“James and Mark have been amazing,” Henri said. “They’ve both co-driven for me during the season, and I’ve learnt so much. I’m just really lucky to have their support and the use of their facilities.

“Dylan Davies from Cardigan and Callum James from Cilgerran have also co-driven for me, and I’m very grateful to them both. Rallying is a huge team effort, and with my service crew of Josh Clarke and Dilwyn John, I have the best team.”

With an impressive first year behind him, Henri is setting his sights on even greater success in the future, backed by a strong support network and a passion for rallying that shows no sign of slowing down.

weST wALeS INTeRmeDIATe CuP

Controversial penalty sees Goodwick edge past Cwmamman

Goodwick United 1

Cwmamman United 0

CwMAMMAN United suffered a narrow defeat in the west wales Cup last 16 after a late and controversial penalty saw Goodwick United claim victory in Fishguard.

Facing the Pembrokeshire League champions and current league leaders, Cwm knew they needed a strong performance to end Goodwick’s 25-match unbeaten run.

Backed by a vocal travelling support, Cwm started brightly, with Elliot Smith going close early on. However, as the game progressed, Goodwick’s tall and organised defence stifled their attacking play, while the hosts created only a handful of half-chances.

Charlie Davies was a standout performer at the heart of Cwm’s defence, while Cam Williams worked tirelessly to break up Goodwick’s attacks.

Just before half-time, Cwm goalkeeper Kurtis Bray conceded a penalty but immediately redeemed himself with a superb save to deny Rhys Jones.

The second half saw both teams battling for the breakthrough, with Goodwick twice striking the post and Cwm hitting the woodwork once. Bray was called into action on several occasions, producing a series of fine saves.

As extra time loomed, the referee awarded Goodwick a contentious penalty in the 79th minute after a cross struck a Cwm defender’s arm. This time, Jones made no mistake, firing home what proved to be the decisive goal.

Cwm pressed for a late equaliser, with Taylor Smith going close, but

Goodwick’s resolute defence held firm to book their place in the quarter-finals.

Cwmamman United return to league action on Friday, February 7, when they host Ynystawe Athletic under the lights at Grenig Park (7:00pm).

q uATER F INALISTS C o NFIRMED

Hakin United dominates Seaside

HAKIN UNITED cruised into the quarter-finals of the West Wales Cup with a commanding 4-0 victory over Seaside. The tie was effectively settled in the first half, with Hakin leading 2-0 at the break.

Ashley Bevan opened the scoring in the 24th minute, nodding home a Shane Walsh header after a Jake Merry free kick. Seven minutes later, Jack Britton doubled the lead with a stunning 25-yard strike.

Britton had a chance to extend the advantage just before halftime but saw his penalty saved. Hakin remained in control, and in the 73rd minute, Walsh fired in a low drive to make it 3-0.

Substitute Jack Griffiths rounded off the scoring five minutes from time.

Seaside’s woes deepened when

mANDeRwOOD PembROKe

j ohnston vs Hakin u nited II

Postponed

The match between Johnston and Hakin United II was postponed, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the rescheduled date. The result will have implications on the teams’ positions as they continue to battle for key spots in the standings.

Fishguard Sports 1 – 1

Merlins Bridge II

A hard-fought and evenly matched game saw Fishguard Sports share the spoils with Merlins Bridge II, as they played to a 1-1 draw. Luke Thoms

found the net for Fishguard, while Daniel Isaac scored for Merlins Bridge. Despite some great efforts on both sides, neither team could find a winner. The result keeps Fishguard in third place, with games in hand over the teams ahead of them.

Neyland 3 – 7 Lawrenny

In a thrilling encounter, Lawrenny claimed a resounding 7-3 victory over Neyland. Owen James and Charlie Arthur were the standout performers for Lawrenny, each netting twice. Sam Davies and Thomas Cole also added goals, helping to secure the dominant win. On the other side, Corey Richards

Corey Richards received a second yellow card late in the match, reducing them to ten men.

Merlins Bridge edges Glynneath

Town

MERLINS BRIDGE booked their place in the quarter-finals with a hardfought 2-1 away win over Glynneath Town.

Jason Griffiths put the visitors ahead in the 24th minute, expertly lobbing the goalkeeper after a pinpoint pass from Josh Thomas.

Thomas then doubled the lead four minutes into the second half with a well-placed left-footed finish.

Glynneath Town set up a nervy finish when substitute Cai Davies struck in the 89th minute, but Merlins Bridge held firm to secure the win.

Goodwick

United advances with penalty winner

GOODWICK UNITED secured their spot in the last eight with a narrow 1-0 win over Cwmamman United.

The match remained goalless at halftime, with Goodwick missing

a penalty just before the break as Cwmamman’s goalkeeper produced a crucial save.

However, in the 78th minute, Goodwick was awarded another penalty for a handball, and this time, Rhys Jones made no mistake, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to seal victory.

Monkton

Swifts see off C k SV

MONKTON SWIFTS advanced with a solid 2-0 win over CKSV, thanks to a brace from striker Dylan Davies.

Davies broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, finishing off a setup from Paul Miller. CKSV’s hopes took a hit when Liam Thomas received a straight red card, reducing them to ten men.

The Swifts capitalized on their numerical advantage, and Davies struck again in the 62nd minute, once more assisted by Miller, to put the game beyond doubt.

Tenby triumphs in dramatic penalty shootout

TENBY edged out Pennar Robins in an astonishing penalty shootout, winning 16-15 after a thrilling 3-3 draw in extra time.

Pennar took an early lead, but Tenby responded, with both teams exchanging goals in an end-to-end contest. After extra time failed to separate them, the tie was decided in a dramatic shootout—the longest in recent memory—where Tenby finally prevailed.

The quarter-final stage of the West Wales Cup now promises more highintensity action as the remaining teams battle for a place in the semi-finals.

bagged a brace, and Max BowmanDavies scored once for Neyland. Despite a spirited effort, Neyland could not cope with Lawrenny’s firepower, and the loss leaves them firmly in the relegation zone.

Camrose 3 – 2 Solva

In a tightly contested match, Camrose edged out Solva with a 3-2 victory. Scott Chalmers scored twice, and Jordan Raymond added a third to seal the win for Camrose. For Solva, Josh Bland and Morgan Elliott were the goal scorers, but it wasn’t enough to avoid defeat. Camrose’s victory boosts their position in the mid-table as they

continue to fight for a more secure finish in the division.

Narberth 4 – 0 Broad Haven League leaders Narberth delivered a comprehensive performance as they defeated Broad Haven 4-0. Jordan Williams was the hero for Narberth, scoring a hat-trick, with Jamie Thomas adding the fourth. Broad Haven, currently at the bottom of the table, struggled to contain Narberth’s attack and remain in the relegation zone. With this victory, Narberth extended their lead at the top of the table, maintaining their stronghold on the promotion race.

mANDeRwOOD PembROKeSHIRe Le Ague

Fixtures

8th February 2025

Division

Clarbeston

Division

v Carew Reserves

Monkton Swifts Res v Neyland

Narberth v Solva

Division 3

Haverfordwest

Kilgetty II v Pendine Neyland Reserves v Clarbeston Road Res

Pembroke Boro v N Hedges & Saundersfoot

St Florence United v Letterston

Division 4

Fishguard Sports Res v Pennar Robins II

Milford Athletic v Monkton Swifts III

Division 5

Herbrandston Res v Milford Athletic Res

Hundleton Reserves v Narberth Reserves

Kilgetty III v Lawrenny Res

Letterston Res v Broad Haven Res

Solva Reserves v Manorbier United St Clears Res v Haverfordwest CC Res

Garan Croft secures second professional victory