The Pembrokeshire Herald 10/10/2025

Tributes paid to ‘inspirational’ mum killed in A40 crash

AN INQUEST has opened into the death of 33-year-old cyclist Jodie Amanda James, who died following a collision with a van on the A40 near Llanddewi Velfrey.

The hearing, held on Friday (Oct 3), was told that Ms James, who lived in Letterston and worked as a cleaner, was cycling along the busy stretch of road when the incident occurred.

She was airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff but sadly died two days later, on August 24.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that a 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving an unfit vehicle. The investigation into the collision remains ongoing.

Senior Coroner for Pembrokeshire, Gareth Lewis, formally opened the inquest before adjourning proceedings pending the outcome of the police inquiry.

He expressed his sympathies to Ms James’ family and friends.

In a statement released after her death, her family said: “Jodie was a loving mother to Kaleb, daughter to Amanda and Stephen, and sister to Sammy and her brother-in-law Kristian. She was also a devoted sister to her brother Adam, and auntie to Karter, Lilith and Atlas. Jodie was an inspiration, a very special person to us all.”

Police continue to appeal for witnesses who were travelling on the A40 near Llanddewi Velfrey at around 8:00am on Friday, August 22. Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by email at 101@dyfed-powys. police.uk, by calling 101, or by sending a direct message on social media.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 25*695926.

Coroner opens inquest into tragic death of Pembroke father Ryan Roberts

SENIOR Pembrokeshire Coroner

Gareth Lewis has opened an inquest into the death of a Pembroke father who died following a workplace incident involving a JCB on a farm in Llangwm.

At a brief hearing on Friday (Oct 3), Mr Lewis confirmed that 34-yearold plant operator Ryan Roberts sustained fatal injuries while working at a property in the Llangwm area on the afternoon of Thursday, September 12.

The court heard that Mr Roberts was taken to Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest but could not be saved.

Opening the inquest, Mr Lewis said that both Dyfed-Powys Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are conducting a joint investigation into the circumstances of the incident.

The inquest will be formally resumed once those inquiries have concluded.

Mr Lewis extended his “sincere condolences” to Mr Roberts’ family and friends, who were present in court, thanking them for attending despite their loss.

He said: “This is clearly a very tragic case involving a young man who was well known in his community. The investigation remains ongoing, and the court will await the full findings before reconvening.”

Police have confirmed that a 60-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of gross negligent manslaughter in connection with the incident. He has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue. A 64-year-old man has also been voluntarily interviewed.

Mr Roberts, described by his family as a devoted father, partner, and friend, leaves behind his partner Kirsty and two daughters, Jaida and Talia.

In a tribute released shortly after his death, his family said: “Ryan tragically passed away on Friday 12 September at just 34 years

old. His cherished partner Kirsty and two beautiful daughters are absolutely devastated by his sudden passing. Ryan was a genuine, loving, caring, funny, hardworking and loyal character who could light up any room.”

The inquest was adjourned pending the outcome of the police and HSE investigations.

Ex-police officer caught stealing from Young Farmers club

A FORMER police officer has been caught stealing money from Tiers Cross Young Farmers Club — after suspicious members set up video surveillance to find out who had been dipping into club funds.

Carole Thomas, from Hakin, was caught in the act on camera during a club event earlier this year. The theft was reported to police in April 2025, and she was later interviewed under caution during the summer.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed to The Herald that an allegation of theft from Tiers Cross Young Farmers Club was received in April and that a woman had been dealt with by means of a conditional caution.

Thomas, who once served as a police officer, initially denied the offence but admitted what she had done after being shown the footage. She agreed to repay the money by the end of October.

Club members told The Herald that the sum involved was small, but said they believe similar incidents may have been taking place “for years.”

One member said: “We’ve had money going missing for a long time.

This time we all clubbed together to buy cameras — and we finally caught her. It’s a real betrayal of trust.”

The club said that stolen money was from funds raised for the Withybush Chemotherapy Day Unit at the Tiers Cross YFC’s Easter Bingo.

The Herald understands that members have described the matter as “a disgrace” and hope that making it public will prevent anything similar happening again.

A conditional caution, issued in

this case, is a formal police disposal used for minor offences where the offender admits the crime. Instead of being charged or taken to court, the person accepts certain conditions — such as repaying money, writing an apology or attending rehabilitation sessions. If the conditions are met within the agreed period, no further action is taken. However, failure to comply can lead to prosecution for the original offence.

Maenclochog man throttled partner then called police on her

A MAENCLOCHOG man who strangled his girlfriend during a drunken row and then reported her to police for drink-driving has been branded a coward by a judge.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Brian Pratt, aged 51, attacked his on-off partner at his home after an argument while they were watching a film in bed. He grabbed her by the throat until she couldn’t breathe, then pushed her to the floor, breaking a bone in her hand.

The woman fled the house and drove off, but Pratt called 999 to accuse her of drink-driving. When arrested, he claimed he had acted in self-defence

after she threw water at him.

In a statement, the victim said she still suffers flashbacks and posttraumatic stress and felt “betrayed” by Pratt’s actions.

Pratt admitted intentional strangulation and assault causing actual bodily harm.

Judge Paul Thomas KC told him: “You behaved like a cowardly bully. You’ve shown no real remorse and blamed her for your actions.”

He was given a 15-month suspended sentence, ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation, and banned from contacting his ex for four years.

Admitted theft: Carol Thomas

Charity event: Easter Bingo

Jealous partner set fire to home after nightclub assault

A COURT has heard how a Milford Haven woman said she would rather have been “beaten black and blue” than have her home set on fire by her jealous partner.

In a victim impact statement read to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, Candice Evans described Christopher Barrett’s actions as “the worst thing I have ever experienced in my life.”

“This was the worst thing he could have done to me,” she said. “I’d rather have been beaten black and blue than have him do this. My home is everything to me, but he destroyed my safe haven.”

The court heard that Barrett and Ms Evans had gone out for a meal before visiting a nightclub in Milford Haven on the night of September 12. When Barrett saw his girlfriend socialising with another man, he became jealous.

“He punched her in the stomach, causing her to double over,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan. “She then hit him back as she was so angry at being assaulted by him in front of other people.”

Ms Evans later told police she was fearful of returning home but was reassured Barrett had been arrested. However, six days later she discovered her kitchen table, blackened by fire, outside her front door.

“I was shocked, as this certainly wasn’t what I was expecting,” she said.

The blaze caused damage to the kitchen ceiling, floor and sofa, along with a number of unopened parcels.

At the time, Barrett was already subject to a two-year community order for assaulting two emergency workers.

Barrett, 54, pleaded guilty to arson and assault by beating. He appeared before magistrates via video link from Swansea Prison, where he has been on remand since last month.

Defending, Michael Kelleher said the incident followed “the worst six months of his life.”

“He was laid off from work, he left his wife, and then he met Ms Evans, who is 20 years younger than him,” he said. “When he saw her with another man, he overreacted. He knows this was his own fault and his life has now fallen apart.”

Mr Kelleher told the court that Barrett had been drinking at Ms Evans’s home on October 18 and accidentally started the fire.

“He lit a cigarette and left it on the table next to some laundry,” he said. “When he realised what he’d done, he went to put it out. When police arrived, he was outside holding the

table. There was little or no planning.”

Barrett has been remanded in custody since the offence and is currently on the rehabilitation wing at Swansea Prison.

He was sentenced to 36 weeks

in custody and ordered to pay £400 compensation to Ms Evans, along with £187 surcharge and £85 costs. A two-year restraining order was also imposed, prohibiting any contact with the victim.

New support service launched for families bereaved by road collisions

FAMILIES across Dyfed-Powys and South Wales who have lost loved ones in road traffic collisions will now have access to a new, dedicated support service.

The Road Victim Support Service, delivered by independent charity Victim Support, is funded for twelve months by Police and Crime Commissioners Dafydd Llywelyn and Emma Wools. It provides free and confidential help to anyone bereaved as a result of a road traffic collision.

HELP IN THE AFTERMATH OF TRAGEDY

The service offers both immediate and long-term assistance to help people cope with the trauma and practical impacts of losing someone suddenly. Each family referred will be given one-to-one support from an experienced, specially trained caseworker.

This caseworker will guide families through emotional, legal and financial challenges following a fatal collision — offering a listening ear, information about the criminal justice process, and access to further specialist help.

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AVAILABLE IN WELSH AND ENGLISH

Referrals can be made through Police Family Liaison Officers or directly by families themselves. Support is available in both Welsh and English, with interpreters and adaptations available for individual needs.

COMPASSION AND CARE

Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said:

“No family should have to face the aftermath of a road traffic tragedy alone. By funding this vital service, I want to ensure that those left behind get the compassion, support and information they need at such a devastating time. I’d encourage anyone who may need help to reach out. Victim Support are there for you, whenever you’re ready.”

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Emma Wools added:

“Road traffic fatalities have devastating impacts on families and communities. In September 2024, together with my counterparts across Wales, we signed the Project Edward Pledge to create safer roads and work towards the goal of ‘Every Day Without a Road Death.’

“As we strive to meet that pledge, I’m proud to launch the Road Victim Support Service with Victim Support, who will work closely with Family Liaison Officers to offer advocacy and care to those affected by fatal collisions.”

Practical and emotional guidance

Jessica Brooks, Victim Support’s Area Manager, said:

“Nothing can prepare you for the shock and trauma of losing a loved one suddenly to a road traffic accident. We’re honoured to deliver this muchneeded service, which will provide vital help in the days and weeks after a tragedy, as well as ongoing support as families begin to rebuild their lives.”

Anyone affected by a fatal road collision can contact Victim Support’s 24-hour Supportline on 0808 1689 111, or complete an online self-referral at victimsupport.org.uk.

Police and council carry out taxi safety checks

POLICE officers and council licensing officers were out in force this morning (Thursday, October 9) carrying out safety checks on taxis in Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

PCs Kate and Phil from Milford Haven and Neyland Police joined Pembrokeshire County Council’s Licensing Team to inspect vehicles and ensure local taxis meet all safety and licensing requirements.

The joint operation aimed to protect passengers by checking that all taxis are roadworthy, insured, and operating within licence conditions. Officers also spoke with drivers about compliance and answered questions about safety standards.

These checks are part of a regular series of operations across

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Pembrokeshire. In April this year, spot checks in Milford Haven, Neyland and on the A477 uncovered a number of issues — including six suspension notices, four delayed prohibition notices, one untaxed vehicle, and three drivers found without badges.

Earlier, in February 2024, a similar operation in Haverfordwest stopped 26 vehicles, where one taxi was found operating without a meter.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the latest checks are part of ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and confidence in local transport services. Further spot checks are expected to take place in the coming weeks.

Pembroke pensioner to stand trial accused of sexual assault

A PEMBROKE man is due to stand trial at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thursday, Oct 9) accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Lamphey last year.

Keith Sillence, aged 71, of Lowless Close, Pembroke, faces one charge of sexual assault on a female. It is alleged that on November 23, 2024, he intentionally touched a woman aged 16 or over in a sexual manner without her consent, and that he did not reasonably believe she was consenting.

Sillence has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which falls under Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003. The complainant’s identity is protected under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992.

The case, listed for trial in Courtroom 1 at 10:00am, was previously adjourned in August to allow the hearing to take place. If convicted, the offence carries a maximum penalty of six months’ imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

Fight continues for South Pembs banking hub as Kurtz MS demands rethink

THE FIGHT to bring a shared Banking Hub to South Pembrokeshire has been reignited after Samuel Kurtz MS called on LINK to reconsider its decision not to open one in Pembroke Dock.

The Member of the Senedd has written to LINK, the UK’s cash access coordinator, formally requesting a fresh assessment following the closure of the town’s last remaining bank branch.

Lloyds Bank on Dimond Street closed on June 26, 2025, leaving South Pembrokeshire without any in-person

banking facilities. Mr Kurtz says LINK’s original review, carried out in January, failed to reflect the realities of life in the area — overlooking geography, demographics, and the number of cashreliant businesses that depend on local banking access.

Mr Kurtz said: “The closure of Lloyds in Pembroke Dock has left tens of thousands

of residents and local businesses without access to basic banking services. LINK’s original assessment was based on outdated assumptions and missed key evidence about deprivation, age, and digital exclusion in South Pembrokeshire.”

He added: “Pembroke Dock isn’t just a town — it’s the main service and retail hub for communities stretching from Pembroke and Tenby to Angle and Saundersfoot. It’s simply not fair or practical to expect people to travel 40 miles or more to the nearest full banking service. It’s time for LINK to take a fresh look at this decision.”

In his letter, Mr Kurtz highlights several key points for reconsideration, including:

• Inadequate alternatives: Post Offices cannot offer key services such as financial advice or business banking.

• Cash-based economy: Local retailers and traders are heavily reliant on cash transactions.

• Regional significance: Pembroke Dock serves an estimated 54,000 residents across South Pembrokeshire.

• High deprivation and digital exclusion: Parts of Pembroke Dock are among the 10% most deprived areas in Wales, with only 65.1%

of homes and businesses able to access gigabit broadband.

• Ageing population: One in four Pembrokeshire residents are aged over 65, many of whom struggle to bank online or travel long distances.

• Travel barriers: Journeys to alternative branches in Haverfordwest or Carmarthen can take more than an hour by car, and much longer on public transport.

• Community backing: Over 640 people have signed an online petition, with further signatures gathered by Pembroke Dock Town Council.

Mr Kurtz also points to the empty former Lloyds Bank premises on Dimond Street as an “ideal, ready-to-use location” for a Banking Hub.

He said: “Other towns with smaller populations and lower deprivation levels have been awarded Banking Hubs. There is no reason why Pembroke Dock — with its size, catchment area, and clear community need — should be treated differently.”

Mr Kurtz has urged LINK to carry out a full and updated review of banking provision in South Pembrokeshire, taking into account new data gathered since the original assessment earlier this year.

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Arrests made after brazen St Fagans burglary

ARRESTS have been made following the high-profile burglary at St Fagans National Museum of History, which saw priceless Bronze Age artefacts stolen in what police described as a highly organised raid.

The Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and Sport, Gareth Davies MS, has welcomed the development, describing

the break-in as “a crime against our national heritage.”

Police confirmed that suspects have been detained in connection with the incident, which took place in the early hours of Monday (Oct 6). Thieves broke into the museum near Cardiff and escaped with items from its Bronze Age gold collection before officers arrived.

“Priceless artefacts that tell our story”

Mr Davies said the raid represented a calculated attack on Welsh culture and identity.

“St Fagans holds priceless artefacts that tell the story of Wales, of who we are and where we came from. To see these treasures stolen in such a calculated and callous act is devastating, not only for the museum but for the whole nation,” he said.

“I am relieved that the individuals alleged to be responsible have now been arrested and charged, and I’d like to thank South Wales Police for their decisive action. I hope that the stolen items can be recovered safely.”

CALL FOR STRONGER PROTECTION

The Welsh Conservatives have

called for tougher protection for cultural institutions and historic collections across Wales.

“People across Wales are sick and tired of seeing criminal behaviour, and they will rightly expect swift justice and tough punishment for those involved,” Mr Davies added. “Our cultural institutions and historic collections deserve the strongest possible protection so that future generations can continue to take pride in them.”

The burglary, which lasted just four minutes, saw the thieves make off with gold artefacts believed to include ingots, bracelets and a lunula necklace. South Wales Police have not yet confirmed whether any of the stolen items have been recovered.

Tenby volunteers honoured for exceptional fundraising efforts

TWO dedicated Tenby volunteers have been recognised for their outstanding commitment to raising funds for seafarers in need.

Richard and Linda Sadler have been awarded the prestigious Lord Lewin Award by the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society for their tireless work maintaining and expanding the charity’s distinctive mine collection points across Wales.

RESTORING TENBY’S MINE

When the couple took over management of Tenby’s fundraising mine in 2020, they immediately set about restoring it with help from a local RNLI mechanic. Their efforts have seen the mine raise more than £500 a year on average for the Society, which provides financial and practical support to former seafarers and their families facing hardship.

ExPANDING THE MISSION

During a visit to Holy Island in 2021, Richard noticed that the local mine was in

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disrepair. Inspired by the island’s historic link to Grace Darling’s heroic 1838 rescue of nine mariners, he led the challenging

refurbishment and relocation of a mine from Chapel St Leonards — 280 miles away — ensuring the community once again had a working collection point.

The pair have since taken on responsibility for a third mine, currently

based in Milford Haven, which they plan to move to Saundersfoot to attract higher donations from visitors.

DEDICATION APPLAUDED

Captain Justin Osmond RN, Chief Executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, praised their efforts, saying:

“Richard and Linda have shown exceptional dedication, perseverance and creativity in managing not one, but several of the Society’s fundraising mines. From restoring and relocating existing collection points to championing entirely new ones, they have worked tirelessly to support our mission. Their achievements are an inspiring example of volunteer fundraising at its best.”

SUPPORTING THOSE WHO SERVE AT SEA

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society supports seafarers and their dependants across the UK, offering financial and emotional help to those who have fallen on hard times after a life at sea.

Husband ‘fought for his life’ as masked gunmen burst into caravan

A VETERAN told a jury he was “fighting for his life” after opening the door of his caravan near Cenarth to find two masked men armed with pistols.

Christopher Mills said he was struck in the face, pistol-whipped and forced to grapple with the men — later identified as former soldiers — during what prosecutors claim was a planned attempt on his life.

The alleged attack took place just after 11:30pm on September 20 last year at the Argoed Meadows caravan and camping park, near Newcastle Emlyn. Mills said he managed to disarm both men, who then fled into the night.

Armed officers, police dogs and a helicopter were scrambled to the scene. Two men — Geraint Berry,

46, of Clos Coffa, Clydach, and Steven Thomas, 47, of Villiers Road, Blaengwynfi — were found hiding in bushes nearby. In their rucksacks, officers discovered gas masks, pliers, cable ties and a note purporting to be a suicide letter from Mr Mills.

The court heard Berry and Thomas were both clients of the veterans’ charity Alabare, where Mr Mills had previously worked before joining Help for Heroes. His wife, Michelle Mills, 46, of Maes Ty Gwyn, Llangennech, had also worked for Alabare — and was allegedly having a secret affair with Berry.

Prosecutor Jonathan Rees KC told Swansea Crown Court the affair developed into a conspiracy to kill her husband, involving discussions about poisoning him with antifreeze,

sedatives or foxgloves, or smothering him with a pillow.

Berry, a former Royal Marine, allegedly “recruited” Thomas to help carry out the plan.

Giving evidence, Mr Mills said he had no idea his wife wanted him harmed. “It was completely out of the blue,” he said. “I thought it was a robbery. I just fought for my life.”

The owner of the caravan park, Rita Owens, told the court she rushed to the scene after receiving a call from Mills. “There was blood everywhere,” she said. “He was covered in blood, and she [Michelle] was sitting calmly texting.”

Mills later discovered cable ties and duct tape in the boot of his wife’s car and reported it to police.

Berry and Thomas have already

admitted possessing imitation firearms with intent to cause fear, but deny conspiracy to murder. Michelle Mills also denies attempting to pervert the course of justice.

The trial continues at Swansea Crown Court.

Welsh Conservatives call Senedd vote to scrap Sustainable Farming Scheme

A MOTION brought forward by the Welsh Conservatives is calling on the Welsh Government to scrap its proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), following the publication of an economic impact assessment predicting major losses for Welsh agriculture.

The report, released on September 30, 2025, estimates that the current version of the SFS could result in the loss of 56,000 livestock, 1,163 jobs on Welsh farms, and £76.3 million in farm business income.

The scheme, which is intended to replace the Basic Payment Scheme, has been widely criticised by farming unions and rural campaigners who fear it will place additional strain on farm businesses already struggling with rising costs, red tape, and the impact of what the Conservatives have called Labour’s “family farm tax”.

DEBATE IN THE SENEDD

The Welsh Conservatives have tabled a motion for debate in the Senedd calling on ministers to “scrap and replace the current Sustainable Farming Scheme with a scheme that works for farmers, placing food security and production at its core.”

The debate is expected to take place at around 5:30pm today (Wednesday, October 8) and can be viewed live online via the Senedd website.

KURTz: “IT DOESN’T WORK FOR FARMERS”

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Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Samuel Kurtz MS, who represents Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, said the scheme would make it harder for farmers to make a living.

He said: “Farmers are already under huge pressure from rising costs, Labour’s family farm tax, and the threat of overbearing red tape. The last thing they need is a scheme that makes it even harder for them to farm, produce food and make a living.

“The Welsh Government’s Sustainable

Farming Scheme does not work for farmers. It must be replaced with a scheme that has food security and production at its core. That’s why we’re putting this to a Senedd vote.”

BACKGROUND

The Sustainable Farming Scheme is part of the Welsh Government’s postBrexit agricultural policy, designed to reward farmers for environmental actions such as habitat creation and carbon reduction.

However, farming unions including the FUW and NFU Cymru have raised concerns that the current design would reduce livestock numbers and threaten the

Campaigners disappointed as council fails to reaffirm

AROUND fifty people gathered outside County Hall in Haverfordwest on Thursday morning (Oct 9) calling on Pembrokeshire County Council to stand firm on its climate commitments.

The demonstration, organised by the West Wales Climate Coalition (WWCC), was held ahead of a meeting of the full council to review progress on the authority’s Zero Carbon Plan. Protesters carried banners reading “Don’t Dump the Climate” and urged councillors not to weaken their 2019 climate emergency declaration.

Following the meeting, WWCC said it was “disappointed” that councillors failed to reaffirm the declaration.

A spokesperson said: “We appreciate that the vote in the council chamber was unanimously reached to allow the existing review committee to continue its work on the cost, analysis and feasibility of delivering the Council’s Zero Carbon Plan by 2030.

“However, we are concerned about the composition of the working group, which currently includes at least two councillors who are historically ill-informed about climate science and the economic benefits of a local authority becoming Net Zero.”

Two councillors – whose names were

viability of family farms across rural Wales, particularly in areas like Pembrokeshire where agriculture plays a key role in the local economy.

climate emergency

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recorded on the webcast – stated during the debate that nothing had changed since 2019 and that the declaration of a climate emergency should still stand.

The rally followed a call by campaigners and local environmentalists, including Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth, highlighting the economic and health advantages of achieving Net Zero. Earlier this year, Friends of the Earth’s Gordon James said that reaching Net Zero would strengthen the economy, create high-quality jobs, and improve public health through cleaner air and energy security.

The West Wales Climate Coalition says it will continue to engage with the council and the public to ensure that Pembrokeshire remains on course to reach its 2030 targets.

Samuel Kurtz MS, from a Pembrokeshire farming family, at a farming protest outside the Senedd in 2024

Spanish galleon sails into Fishguard harbour

THE majestic Spanish galleon El Galeón Andalucía has arrived in Fishguard Harbour, drawing large crowds eager to glimpse the historic vessel.

The full-scale replica of a 17thcentury Spanish trading ship sailed into port on Wednesday (Oct 8), towering above the harbour wall as residents gathered to watch. The sight of her masts and billowing rigging against the Pembrokeshire coastline provided a spectacular scene.

Local resident Marc Owens captured one of the most striking images of the visit — a dramatic photograph showing the galleon at anchor beneath clear autumn skies. His picture, shared widely on social media, perfectly captures the scale and beauty of the ship as it sits in the calm waters off Fishguard.

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Visitors are now able to step aboard and explore the vessel, which serves as a floating museum charting Spain’s maritime history and the era of transAtlantic exploration. The ship features six decks and exhibits about navigation, shipbuilding and life at sea in the 1600s.

El Galeón Andalucía will remain open to the public throughout the weekend, offering guided tours daily until Sunday evening before setting sail on Monday (Oct 13).

The arrival of the galleon is expected to provide a welcome boost to local tourism, coinciding with Fishguard’s autumn events calendar and bringing a touch of seafarin

Man spared jail for importing thousands of diazepam tablets

A PEMBROKE man who ordered tens of thousands of prescription drugs from overseas without permission has avoided an immediate prison sentence after admitting multiple importation and supply offences.

Joseph Whitbread, aged 39, of Grove Way, appeared at Swansea Crown Court today (Oct 9) where he was sentenced for bringing around 30,000 diazepam tablets and a quantity of pregabalin into the UK through Cardiff Airport in July last year. Both are class C controlled drugs.

The court heard that Whitbread, an oilrig worker based in Ghana, had effectively been buying the medication online from overseas suppliers, importing it without Home Office authority. He told officers the drugs were intended for personal use and friends, but messages and quantities found by investigators suggested wider distribution.

Prosecutor Georgia Donohue said Whitbread was stopped by Border Force officers at the airport on July 14, 2024, with the tablets hidden in his luggage. Further inquiries revealed a second attempted importation on October 30,

Court Reporter

involving similar medication.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply a class C drug and two counts of improper importation, along with two further charges of attempting to possess diazepam with intent to supply and improper importation in relation to the October incident.

Whitbread had no relevant previous convictions, though he had earlier appeared before magistrates for a drinkdriving offence in Pembroke in 2024.

Defending, Hannah George said her client had already spent time on remand and was supporting his partner and children through work on an oil rig in Ghana.“This defendant is capable of learning from his mistakes and there is a realistic prospect of rehabilitation,” she told the court.

Judge Catherine Richards said the offences were clearly motivated by a desire to make money but accepted that Whitbread was remorseful and unlikely to reoffend.

She sentenced him to 14 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with conditions including 150 hours of unpaid work, 30 rehabilitation activity

days, and a three-month curfew from 10:00pm to 6:00am, to be electronically monitored. He must also pay a victim surcharge.

Magnificent arrival — El Galeón Andalucía at Fishguard Harbour, captured by local photographer Marc Owens

By

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

Cynhyrchiad NEWYDD brawychus Theatr Torch.

8 - 25 October

From the story by Henry James

A Torch Theatre Company Production Cynhyrchiad Cwmni Theatr Torch

Ombudsman finds Health Board failed vulnerable epilepsy patients

The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales has ruled that Hywel Dda University Health Board failed to provide adequate care for epilepsy patients with learning disabilities. The finding follows a complaint by seven families whose loved ones relied on a specialist epilepsy service that was abruptly discontinued in June 2021. The families said the Health Board failed to make proper alternative arrangements — and, four years on, still has no clear plan to meet the needs of these highly vulnerable patients.

In upholding the complaint, the Ombudsman expressed concern at the Health Board’s ongoing failings, which have affected “a very vulnerable group of patients.”

Marie James, one of the mothers involved in the complaint, said she felt “relieved” by the Ombudsman’s findings and recommendations. Marie cares for her adult son, Trystan, who

has a genetic disorder causing daily seizures and weekly tonic-clonic episodes.

She said: “Since June 2021, the Health Board has failed to provide access to appropriate healthcare for our loved ones with epilepsy and learning disabilities. We were left without signposting or direction — a total failure of service. It made us feel that the responsibility was completely on our shoulders to ensure our children received the best epilepsy care we could provide.”

Marie said she and the other mothers tried to engage constructively with the Health Board but found the responses “disheartening.”

“The seven of us mums know that, to a degree, we can advocate for our children,” she added. “But any one of us could face new or emergency

situations tomorrow, or see our sons or daughters move into supported living environments. That’s the real fear driving us — to ensure there’s a service that meets the needs of all vulnerable adults with epilepsy and a learning disability.”

The Ombudsman made several recommendations, all of which the Health Board has accepted. It must now:

• Establish a clear Learning Disability Epilepsy Care Pathway accessible to all patients in its area.

• Provide written apologies to each of the seven complainants within two months, acknowledging the lack of communication and care planning following the service’s closure.

• Conduct a full review of its learning disability epilepsy patient lists within four months to ensure

every individual has an up-todate care plan, risk assessment, and emergency medication plan — including those who have been missed or are still awaiting neurology appointments.

Jane Hanna, Director of Policy and Influencing at SUDEP Action, said: “Our role was to stand alongside the families in their fight. We’re pleased the Ombudsman issued such strong recommendations with clear timelines and that our request for an independent expert to review the Health Board’s future actions was included in the final report.”

Marie added: “We’re greatly indebted to SUDEP Action. Trystan’s life has been enhanced because of their support, and his risks have been reduced.”

The full Ombudsman’s report will be available from October 9 at www. ombudsman.wales

Haverfordwest woman sentenced for four-year campaign of abusive messages

A HAVERFORDWEST woman has been sentenced after sending a series of vile and threatening messages to her half-sister over a four-year period.

Haverfordwest magistrates heard this week that Kerry Steadman, 37, of Market Street, repeatedly sent obscene and abusive texts and social media messages to her sibling, including threats such as “Your tits are going to get chopped off,” “You dirty nonce,” and “You in-bred c**.”*

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told the court: “There have been various attempts by the victim to block communication with the defendant, but she sets up different accounts that enable her to continue her behaviour. This has been going on since 2022, and the defendant has even made attempts

to contact other family members in an effort to locate her sister.”

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Steadman’s half-sister said the harassment had taken a serious emotional toll.

“It’s causing distress to myself and my family, and is also making me fear for the safety of my young children,” she said.

Steadman pleaded guilty to sending obscene and abusive messages and to failing to surrender to court bail after failing to appear at a previous hearing on September 16.

Defence solicitor Andrew Isaac said his client’s actions stemmed from “a significant history” within the family.

“She moved to Pembrokeshire because of her family, and there are

currently considerable investigations ongoing concerning the family background,” he told the court. “Since she’s been living here, she’s improved massively and is enjoying a completely different type of life to what she was used to in Merseyside. This is a young lady who means well.”

After considering a 15-page presentence report from the probation service, magistrates imposed an 18-month community order including 15 rehabilitation activity days. Steadman was also fined £120, ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £114 court surcharge.

A restraining order was made, banning her from contacting her half-sister directly or indirectly for the next 18 months.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Violence in Welsh prisons blamed on staff shortages, drugs and neglect

VIOLENCE across Welsh prisons has reached crisis levels, with assaults between prisoners and attacks on staff soaring amid chronic staff shortages, rampant drug use and long lock-up hours.

A growing body of evidence, including Ministry of Justice data, inspection findings and independent research, paints a picture of a prison system buckling under pressure. In some institutions, assaults have more than doubled in five years, with serious injuries becoming alarmingly routine.

At HMP Cardiff, assaults on staff rose from 20 in 2022/23 to 52 last year – a 160 per cent increase. The prison also recorded 168 prisoner-onprisoner attacks, up 42 per cent in five years. Across Wales, the picture is much the same, as overcrowding, poor rehabilitation and undertrained officers drive a spiral of violence and despair.

Figures show that prisoner-onprisoner assaults across Welsh prisons rose 80 per cent in 2023, while assaults on staff rose 69 per cent. Self-harm incidents are up more than half, and deaths in custody have risen steeply, particularly in prisons where drug use is rife.

The causes are interlinked: inexperience, understaffing, mental health decline, drugs, debt and boredom. Overcrowded jails and endless hours behind locked doors are fuelling frustration and aggression.

A senior officer told The Herald: “When a prisoner owes money for drugs, it doesn’t just disappear – it ends in a beating, a stabbing, or worse. The gangs run the wings because there aren’t enough experienced officers to control them.”

DRUGS, DEBT AND RETRIBUTION

Synthetic drugs such as Spice are flooding prisons across Wales. Drones and corrupt smuggling routes are feeding a thriving black market, and prisoners are racking up debts they cannot pay. Violence is often the result.

At HMP Parc in Bridgend, inspectors found that 57 per cent of prisoners said it was easy to get drugs. In one year there were nearly 900 drug finds, and the number of drug-related deaths rose dramatically. Prisoners described days locked up for 21 hours, with no meaningful activity and little food.

Drugs create their own power structures inside the walls. Those who control supply control the prison, while those in debt are left vulnerable to beatings, extortion and retribution.

PARC PRISON’S SHOCKING DECLINE

Once considered one of the UK’s better-run prisons, Parc has become a byword for crisis. Inspectors recorded 722 assaults in the 12 months before their 2025 visit – 110 of them serious –representing a 60 per cent rise since the

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previous inspection.

Seventeen inmates died there in one year, 12 of them in just six months. Violence, drugs and self-harm have soared. The inspection concluded that Parc had “declined significantly” and was now “too violent, too drug-ridden and too unstable.”

The prison is operated by private firm G4S, and critics say profit motives have made matters worse. Staff turnover is high, morale is low, and rehabilitation programmes have withered. Former

between 2022/23 and 2024/25, from 20 to 52 – a 160 per cent increase.

The most recent inspection found that almost two-thirds of prisoners were sharing single cells, with many locked up for long periods. Nearly half said drugs were easy to get, and self-harm incidents rose by a third in 2023 alone.

Despite strong leadership and generally good relationships between staff and prisoners, the report described a “pressured and overcrowded” establishment. Cardiff had ten suicides since 2019 and remains among the most stretched prisons in Wales.

Patrick Mallon, a solicitor at JF Law, said: “The alarming year-on-year rise in assaults in UK prisons is a stark reflection of a system under immense strain. With populations growing and so many prisons officially overcrowded, the Ministry of Justice is facing a crisis where violence becomes increasingly common.”

SWANSEA: SAFER BUT UNDER STRAIN

HMP Swansea remains an exception – for now. The latest inspection found just 34 prisoner-on-prisoner assaults in a year, and violence against staff described as “among the lowest of all reception prisons.”

However, inspectors warned that the prison’s relative calm depended on stable staffing and leadership. Work and education spaces were limited, leaving many prisoners idle. With overcrowding rising elsewhere, there are fears Swansea could follow the same pattern as Parc and Cardiff if staffing levels fall.

OVERCROWDING AND LONG LOCKUPS

The Welsh prison population has grown steadily for three decades, mirroring the national trend. Across England and Wales there are now more than 88,000 inmates – double the number held in 1994 – yet the number of uniformed officers has barely increased.

Many prisoners spend more than 20 hours a day locked in their cells. With little access to work, training or exercise, frustration boils over. In an already volatile environment, small disputes escalate into violence.

prisoners describe a chaotic regime: “You’re either locked up, off your head, or fighting over debt. The staff just shut the doors and hope it blows over.”

CARDIFF: OVERCROWDING AND RISING ASSAULTS

Cardiff, a local Victorian prison in the Adamsdown area, has not escaped the violence. Figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act show that prisoner-on-prisoner assaults have risen by 42 per cent in five years, reaching 168 in 2024/25.

Assaults on staff more than doubled

Long hours alone also take a toll on mental health. Self-harm incidents across Wales rose 53 per cent in 2023, and inspectors report growing numbers of prisoners on suicide prevention measures.

PRIVATE PROFIT AND PUBLIC COST

Campaigners argue that the private operation of Parc has exposed the risks of running prisons for profit. With cost pressures and high staff turnover, safety and rehabilitation often fall by the wayside.

A spokesperson for the Prison Officers’ Association said: “You can’t

run safe prisons on minimum wage and profit margins. Officers are undertrained, overworked and terrified. It’s a ticking time bomb.”

A BROKEN DUTY OF CARE

Under law, prison authorities have a duty of care to protect those in custody and to provide a safe working environment for staff. Where that duty is breached, both prisoners and officers have the right to seek compensation for physical or psychological harm.

But campaigners say litigation should not be the only route to accountability. The system itself needs reform.

Legal Expert’s analysis points out

that for every ten extra prisoners per thousand, assaults on staff rise by 1.5 and prisoner-on-prisoner assaults by one. The conclusion is stark: violence is built into overcrowding.

CALLS FOR REFORM

Experts and unions are united in calling for reform. They say the government’s £40 million “Plan for Change,” which promises 14,000 new prison places by 2031, will not be enough without investment in staff training, rehabilitation and mental health care.

Proposed solutions include better pay and retention schemes for officers, more purposeful activity for inmates,

and tighter control of contraband. Independent monitoring boards have also urged greater transparency and tougher oversight of private contracts.

THE HUMAN COST

Behind the statistics are broken people – inmates and officers alike. Many of those injured will never fully recover, and each death in custody represents a failure of care.

Families of those who died at Parc and Cardiff say they were failed by a system that could not keep their loved ones safe. Officers speak of colleagues assaulted or traumatised beyond repair.

Until the root causes – drugs, debt,

understaffing and neglect – are tackled head-on, violence will continue to define life inside Welsh prisons. The cost is measured not only in bruises and broken bones, but in trust, safety and human dignity.

Cardiff Prison (Image: BBC)

Swansea Prison (Archive photo)

Inquest opens into deaths of two men in A40 crash

AN INQUEST has opened into the deaths of two young men who were killed in a single-vehicle collision on the A40 earlier this month.

The crash happened in the early hours of Saturday, September 14, at around 3:13am on the stretch of road between Haverfordwest and Fishguard.

Court Reporter

Bowen was working as a chef, while Mr Coleman was currently unemployed.

FAMILY TRIBUTES

Mr Bowen’s family described him as a “cherished son, a devoted brother and uncle and a source of love and strength to everyone fortunate enough to know him”. They said: “His kindness and spirit will live with us forever. While our hearts are broken, we will hold tightly to the memories of the countless ways he enriched our lives.”

The family of Mr Coleman paid tribute to him as “caring, kind, fun loving”, adding that he would be “massively missed by all his family”.

CONDOLENCES ExTENDED

Pembrokeshire Coroner’s Officer Roger Smith told the hearing that Mr

The victims were named as Aled Osian Bowen, aged 18, from Trecwn, Haverfordwest, and Aled William Coleman, aged 23, from Fishguard. Post-mortem examinations confirmed that both men died from traumatic injuries.

Pembrokeshire Coroner Gareth Lewis offered his “sincere condolences” to the families and friends of both men and adjourned the inquest for six months while police investigations continue.

Fined after stealing bag from unlocked car

AN IMPULSIVE decision to steal a handbag containing cash and bank cards from an unlocked car in Haverfordwest town centre has cost a self-employed labourer more than £1,000 in fines and costs.

Leigh Pettit, 26, approached the vehicle on January 5 while it was parked outside a property at Portfield, Haverfordwest. Inside, he found a bag containing a purse, several bank cards and £50 in cash.

He took the items and later used one of the stolen bank cards to make purchases at the Premier Stores in Market Street, the Peking House Chinese takeaway in High Street, and the Texaco garage on Fishguard Road.

“The victim had left her bag in the unlocked car and, when she returned, realised that all her items had been taken,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

After receiving a bank notification of fraudulent use at the Texaco garage,

the victim was shown CCTV footage that clearly identified Pettit making the purchases.

“She recognised him, as she remembered him from when they were at school,” Ms Vaughan added.

The court heard that while the victim’s bank reimbursed the fraudulent transactions, the £50 in cash was never recovered.

Pettit, of Jury Lane, Haverfordwest, pleaded guilty to theft and three counts of fraud by false representation. He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“It’s disappointing to see him here today, as he’s been in and out of trouble for many years but had recently found some stability,” said Mr Lloyd. “This was a very silly and impulsive mistake, committed while he was under the influence of alcohol.”

Magistrates fined Pettit £700 and ordered him to pay a £300 court surcharge, £85 in costs, and £50 compensation to the victim.

Man wrongly accused of burglary spends six weeks in prison

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has spent six weeks in custody after being wrongly accused of burglary, a court has heard.

Warren Harper, aged 33, was arrested on August 31 following allegations that he had broken into a property at Precelly Place, Milford Haven.

However, appearing before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week via video link from Cardiff Prison, Harper was told that the Crown Prosecution Service had withdrawn the charge.

His solicitor, Tom Lloyd, told the court: “He has persistently denied the burglary charge, but he has been remanded

in prison for the past six weeks. This has naturally been a very frustrating experience for him.”

Mr Lloyd added that during his time on remand, Harper had made positive use of his time by completing several courses and working as a mentor, helping other prisoners to learn to read and write.

Although the burglary charge was discontinued, Harper, of Marble Hall Close, Milford Haven, admitted possessing 0.44g of cannabis and a quantity of diazepam.

He was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £32 victim surcharge. A forfeiture and destruction order was made for the drugs.

Two taken to hospital after three-car crash on A40 near Letterston

TWO people were taken to hospital and a woman arrested following a three-vehicle collision on the A40 between Letterston and Scleddau in the early hours of Sunday morning (Oct 5).

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 1:00am, where police, ambulance, and fire crews from Fishguard and Haverfordwest attended.

According to Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, four people were involved in the crash, all of whom managed to get out of their vehicles before firefighters arrived. Crews made

the scene safe using lighting, small tools and a hose reel jet before leaving at around 2:40am.

Police said one woman in her twenties was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Two of those involved were taken to hospital — one to Withybush in Haverfordwest and another to Glangwili in Carmarthen — with injuries not thought to be life-threatening.

The A40 was closed in both directions for several hours while emergency crews worked at the scene, reopening shortly after 4:00am.

Pembrokeshire restaurants scoop top titles at Food Awards Wales 2025

2025 ceremony held at the Marriott Hotel in Cardiff on Monday (Oct 6).

Umi in Tenby was named Asian Restaurant of the Year, while Lokky’s, based at The Imperial Dragon Hotel in Wooden, claimed the title of Best Pan Asian Establishment. The group’s flagship venue, Dragon Palace in Pentlepoir, also received an Outstanding Achievement award for its takeaway service and secured third place in the Asian Restaurant category.

All three venues are part of the Dragon Collection, a family-run group headed by husband and wife team Lok and Jen Cheung.

The Cheungs are well known locally for their commitment to highquality Asian cuisine. Their original restaurant, the Dragon Palace, has twice won at the UK Golden Chopsticks Awards and is consistently ranked among Pembrokeshire’s best Chinese restaurants.

Their second venture, The Imperial Dragon Hotel, home to Lokky’s, has been awarded four stars by Visit Wales and has earned glowing reviews from guests praising its food and atmosphere. Lokky’s itself was previously crowned Best Restaurant in Wales at the Golden Chopsticks

Awards in 2022.

Last year, the couple expanded their collection by taking over Umi in Tenby, promising to “redefine the Japanese dining experience” with dishes inspired by the vibrant flavours of Japan.

Amelia McBeth from the Dragon Collection said the team was “thrilled” by the recognition: “It’s an incredible achievement for all three of our restaurants to bring awards home to Pembrokeshire. Each one offers something unique, and together they show how much amazing cuisine this county has to offer.”

“We’re a proud family-run business, and our staff work tirelessly to make every dining experience special. This recognition means the world to us.”

The Food Awards Wales celebrate the best culinary talent in the nation, honouring restaurants, takeaways, cafés, and producers who bring fresh, high-quality food and diverse flavours to Welsh diners.

Spokesperson Irfan Younis said: “This year’s winners reflect the resilience and creativity of chefs and restaurateurs across Wales. We congratulate all of them on their outstanding achievements.”

Eglwyswrw teacher crosses Cardiff Half finish line

A 63-YEAR-OLD physics teacher from Eglwyswrw has completed her first Cardiff Half Marathon to raise funds and awareness for vascular dementia.

Catherine Stevens took up running

Inquest opens into death of Milford Haven teenager

AN INQUEST has opened into the death of 16-year-old Kianna Patton from Milford Haven, who was found in the derelict Commodore Hotel in Pembroke Dock on October 24, 2019.

The hearing, expected to last six weeks, began today before senior Pembrokeshire coroner Gareth Lewis.

Tributes from her family described Kianna as caring, loving and selfless — a talented Irish dancer and musician with “a heart of gold and an infectious smile.” Her mother, Joanna Patton, said Kianna

was known for her humour, kindness, and compassion, recalling how she once helped a woman in distress on the Cleddau Bridge.

Kianna was the eldest of four children and shared a close bond with her siblings. Her family said she will always be remembered for her generosity, her love of music, and her ability to make others smile.

The inquest will continue until November 14.

only a few years ago but decided to dedicate her efforts to supporting the British Heart Foundation (BHF) Cymru in memory of family members affected by cardiovascular disease.

“The more I ran, the more I realised I wanted to do something meaningful with it,” she said.

Catherine’s motivation comes from personal loss. Her mother, Philippa Gould, and her mother-in-law, Miriam Stevens, both suffered from vascular dementia — a condition caused by poor blood flow to the brain that leads to memory loss and cognitive decline.

“Mum masked her dementia very well,” Catherine explained. “She was also battling lung cancer, which ultimately contributed to her death. Miriam went from being active and engaged to really struggling with her health — it was heartbreaking for my husband and his sister to go through that.”

She said the experience has left a lasting impact on her family: “We’re looking forward, but we can’t help thinking—could this be us one day?”

Catherine chose to support BHF Cymru because of its work funding research into vascular dementia and heart disease. “As a scientist, I really appreciate the academic rigour behind their work. But they’re also

part of the community through their shops and outreach.”

After months of training, Catherine crossed the finish line with pride and determination. “It’s been surprisingly enjoyable and has really boosted my self-confidence,” she said. “The support from my school’s physics department has been incredible — they’re all keen runners and have really taken me on board.”

Rhodri Thomas, Head of BHF Cymru, said: “We are so proud of Catherine and all our runners at this year’s Cardiff Half Marathon. Each month, around 800 families in Wales lose a loved one to cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack and stroke. It’s people like Catherine who help bring us closer to a future where everyone has a healthier heart for longer. Diolch o galon.”

With more than 27,000 runners taking part, Catherine said she was proud to stand among them: “It’s just me out there, but I’m running for everyone affected by these conditions. Each stroke, each moment of decline — it eats away at a person’s personality. That’s why I run. That’s why I’m raising money: to help fund the research that might one day stop this from happening to others.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Catherine Stevens crosses the finish line at the Cardiff Half Marathon; Catherine pictured with her family after completing the race (Pics: BHF Cymru).

Cabinet brands nitrate policy ‘bonkers’

COUNCILLORS have slammed a policy that has brought Pembrokeshire’s housebuilding ambitions to a standstill.

At a meeting on Monday, members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet tore into the nitrate neutrality directive issued by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), describing it as “bonkers”, “embarrassing”, and “all pain and no gain”.

The NRW policy requires all new developments in mid-Pembrokeshire to be nitrate neutral—meaning they must make no additional contribution to nitrate levels in the Cleddau catchment area. In practice, this applies to “any building with a toilet”, forcing applicants to show how nitrates from the development will be neutralised either on site or elsewhere before planning permission can be granted.

Cabinet member for planning, Cllr Jacob Williams, told colleagues that the rule affects around 75% of the county, effectively freezing hundreds of projects. A report before the meeting said that around 200 live planning applications and 600 new homes are currently at risk, while more than 2,200 homes proposed in the new development plan could also fall foul of the regulations.

97% FROM FARMING

What most angered Cabinet members was evidence presented at a recent seminar suggesting that agriculture accounts for 97% of nitrate pollution in local watercourses—while housing and other developments make up just 3%.

In that context, councillors said, the contribution of new homes would be so

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small as to be almost negligible. The 600 homes affected represent about 2% of the county’s housing stock—meaning, even if the full 3% were due to housing, the actual impact would amount to just 0.06%.

“It’s all pain and no gain,” one councillor remarked.

‘HEADS SHOULD ROLL’

Cllr Williams called the situation “bonkers”, a view echoed by Cabinet member Cllr Tessa Hodgson, who warned of devastating consequences for the local construction industry and supply chain.

Cabinet member for housing, Cllr Michelle Bateman, said the ruling would

cause severe delays to the council’s housebuilding programme.

Labour group leader Cllr Paul Miller went further, branding the actions of officials and ministers in Cardiff Bay “embarrassing”.

“With a Civil Service and 60 AMs paid to scrutinise these things,” he said, “it’s amazing they couldn’t see this nonsense coming. Heads should roll.”

£400,000 PLAN QUESTIONED

During the meeting, it was revealed that the council has set aside £400,000 to hire consultants to develop a nitrate mitigation strategy for future developments.

Cllr Hodgson pointed out that this figure excludes the actual cost of the mitigation work itself, which could be far higher. One proposal involves creating nitrate-absorbing wetlands on the county farm estate, but no cost estimate has yet

been produced.

Several members questioned whether such schemes represented value for money, given the tiny potential environmental gain.

CALL FOR WELSH GOVERNMENT ACTION

A Notice of Motion by Cllr Jacob Williams, calling on the Welsh Government to lift or ease the block on development, will be debated at Thursday’s full council meeting. It is understood that the 97% figure comes from a 2016 study, with an updated assessment not due until 2027. Even if that new research attributes a greater share to housing—say 10% or even 20%—councillors noted that the resulting effect on overall nitrate levels would still be minute, between 0.2% and 0.4%.

Taxes on Pembrokeshire second homeowners to be lowered

SECOND home-owners in Pembrokeshire will pay a lower council tax premium next year after a call to drop the rate was passed by just one vote.

A council tax premium is applied to the main council tax bill, the precepts from the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner and the town and community council elements of the overall bill.

Late last year, Pembrokeshire councillors had voted to drop the council tax premium on second homes from 200 per cent on top of the standard bill, effectively a treble rate, to 150 per cent.

Prior to that, second-home owners in the county were charged a 100 per cent premium.

Following backing from the council’s Cabinet, a full meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, on October 9, was recommended to support the second homes premium remaining at 150 per cent and a long-term empty properties rate remaining at 300 per cent for properties empty for more than two years.

The percentage of homes with no

usual resident in Pembrokeshire, made up of holiday lets, empty homes and second homes, is 13.8 per cent, down from a high of 14.6 per cent, a report for members said.

Four communities in the county, Dale, Lamphey, Newport, and The Havens, have a percentage in excess of 40 per cent and a further 14 have a rate of 25 per cent or higher, the report added.

Speaking at the meeting, Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance Efficiencies Cllr Alistair Cameron said a drop in the second homes premium to 100 per cent, as recommended by the Council Tax Working Group would result in a budget pressure of £2.8m for 202627, equivalent to a three per cent hike in general council tax levels.

An amendment to the 150 per cent rate was put forward by Cllr Mark Carter, seeking a drop to 100 per cent, seconded by Cllr Di Clements.

Leader Cllr Jon Harvey had warned: “The reality is if this amendment is approved, we’ve got to find another £2.8m, either cuts or we put the council

tax up by that amount. I would rather be looking after the majority of council taxpayers in Pembrokeshire rather than supporting this 100 per cent.”

Cllr Phil Kidney had, during the meeting, given warning that should the 100 per cent amendment fail, he would be proposing a reduction to 125 per cent.

One of those against the status quo was Cllr Mike Stoddart, who said: “Very simply I don’t agree we can chisel money out of these people so we don’t have to go to our people; we’re acting to our own electoral advantage. It’s totally unfair to pay double the council tax and using the services a lot less.”

Cllr Carter’s 100 per cent call was defeated by 21 votes for, 29 against, and two abstentions, leading to Cllr Kidney’s amendment being put forward, passing by just one vote; 26 for and 25 against. Members later unanimously supported the empty property rate remain at the current level.

At 25 per cent drop in equivalent to a funding shortfall of some £1.4m.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Bluestone defies UK travel slump as families make Pembrokeshire their main summer getaway

PEMBROKESHIRE holiday resort

Bluestone has defied national travel trends, reporting a record-breaking summer as more families chose Wales for their main holiday instead of travelling abroad.

With the summer season now behind us, Bluestone National Park Resort is celebrating its strongest figures yet for week-long stays, signalling a major shift in British holiday habits — and a boost for Welsh tourism.

Traditionally known as a short-break destination, the Narberth-based resort saw a surge in visitors opting for sevennight or longer holidays, as families prioritised the value, convenience and sustainability of a UK stay over the rising costs and uncertainty of international travel.

In August alone, almost one in three families (32%) stayed for a full week or more, up from 23.5% last year — a 36% increase. Across July and August, Bluestone also recorded its longest average stay in five years, with guests staying 4.6 nights on average compared with the Welsh national average of 3.6 nights in 2024.

The figures stand in stark contrast to the Great British Tourism Survey, which reported a 15% fall in holiday trips to Wales last year, while aviation analysts Cirium noted record-breaking flight numbers from the UK to Europe this summer.

Bluestone’s performance suggests that when families choose Wales, they are staying longer, spending more, and treating Pembrokeshire as their main summer destination.

The resort also attracted visitors from further afield, with notable increases in seven-night bookings from Cumbria (+85%), Essex (+81%) and Derbyshire (+74%) compared with last year — reflecting a growing national appetite for longer, experience-led breaks in Pembrokeshire’s coastal and countryside settings.

Sarah Chapman, Sales and Marketing Director at Bluestone, said:

“Families are rethinking how they holiday. Rising travel costs, unpredictable global events and a desire for sustainability are all driving more people to choose UK destinations for their main summer break – and this year’s fantastic weather only

Russian biker to stand trial over serious crash near Dinas Cross

A RUSSIAN motorcyclist is to stand trial accused of seriously injuring a fellow biker during a group ride in Pembrokeshire.

Aleksandrs Lohins, aged 61, is charged with causing serious injury to Anna Titochuk by driving his Honda GL1800 motorbike into her on the A487 at Dinas Cross in April 2023.

Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court that the two riders had arranged a group trip with friends, with Lohins initially expected to lead the way.

“The complainant, Anna Titochuk, had arranged to ride her motorbike together with the defendant and some other friends, but because she was unfamiliar with the route, the intention was that Mr Lohins would lead the way,” said Ms Vaughan.

“However, because his Sat Nav wasn’t working, it was decided that the complainant would initially lead. She

would turn right, and once the defendant’s Sat Nav was functioning, he would take over.”

The Crown alleges that as Ms Titochuk began to turn right, Lohins accelerated to overtake her.

“He collided with her vehicle, causing an open fracture to her leg,” Ms Vaughan continued.

Lohins, of Mayfield Terrace, Newcastle upon Tyne, denies the charge. Speaking through a Russian interpreter, he told magistrates there had been no prior agreement that he was to lead the group and disputed that he had accelerated.

“My motorbike weighs 400kg, I weigh 100kg, and so did my passenger,” he said. “It would have been impossible to accelerate with such a heavy load.”

The case was adjourned for trial at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on November 17. Lohins was released on unconditional bail.

strengthened that trend.

“At Bluestone, we’re seeing guests plan further ahead, with many booking six to twelve months in advance. It’s great to see so many wanting to return to Pembrokeshire year after year.”

Bluestone also retained its title as Wales’ number one holiday park, and third in the UK, in the latest Which?

rankings — a position it has now held for four consecutive years.

Set within 500 acres of countryside near Narberth, Bluestone offers more than 400 luxury lodges and cottages and provides a wide range of family activities alongside easy access to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

RT Davies: ‘Senedd ministers must drop asylum seeker plan’

ANDREW RT DAVIES MS has called on Welsh ministers to scrap their plans to make Wales a “Nation of Sanctuary” for asylum seekers, after the government reaffirmed that it was “proud” of the policy.

Mr Davies described the initiative as “highly irresponsible” and claimed it would encourage more people to enter the UK illegally and put pressure on public services.

The comments follow a vote by Plaid Cymru, Labour and “Llantwit First” councillors in the Vale of Glamorgan to declare the area a “County of Sanctuary” for asylum seekers — a move opposed by local Conservatives.

Mr Davies said: “Illegal migration poses huge problems for our communities. Not only does it place unsustainable pressures on our public services, it also leads to an increased risk of crime.

“The message must be clear: if you are in Britain illegally, you are not welcome

here and you will be removed.

“But Plaid, Labour and the Lib Dems’ Nation of Sanctuary policy delivers the opposite. Not only does it openly advertise asylum seekers’ entitlements to housing and services, resources are allocated towards helping them access them.

“Various organisations are also funded which provide people with legal advice and assistance to avoid deportation.

“In the past week, Plaid and Labour have doubled down on the policy, both in the Vale of Glamorgan Council and in the Senedd.

“I have long opposed this highly irresponsible policy, which goes against the needs and wishes of people in the Vale of Glamorgan. Both the Nation and County of Sanctuary must be scrapped.”

WELSH GOVERNMENT DEFENDS “COMPASSIONATE RESPONSE”

In response, Welsh Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, defended the Nation of Sanctuary policy as a “compassionate response” that helps people fleeing persecution to rebuild their lives and contribute to local communities.

She said the Welsh Government does not decide how many asylum seekers are placed in Wales — that remains a responsibility of the UK Home Office — but confirmed Wales had committed to welcoming up to five per cent of arrivals.

“We believe this compassionate

response gives people seeking sanctuary the best start possible and also helps local services and communities too,” Ms Hutt said.

Between 2019 and 2025, the total cost of the policy has been around £55 million, with 82 per cent of that funding directed towards supporting Ukrainian arrivals, which had cross-party backing in the Senedd.

CRITICS ACCUSE CONSERVATIVES OF “HYPOCRISY”

Llanelli councillor Shaun Greaney accused Mr Davies and other Conservatives of inconsistency, saying they had not opposed the sanctuary approach when it was applied to Ukrainian refugees.

He said: “It’s morally indefensible to

praise the policy when it helps Ukrainians but attack it when it helps others. The Welsh Government’s approach reflects the warm Welsh welcome that people around the world associate with our nation.”

BACKGROUND

Wales was formally recognised as the world’s first “Nation of Sanctuary” in 2019, committing to improve support for refugees and asylum seekers through housing, education, and community integration.

The scheme has received praise from charities and international human rights groups, but continues to face criticism from Conservatives, who say it diverts limited resources away from local residents.

Win prizes and save lives in Wales Air Ambulance autumn raffle

AS THE NIGHTS draw in and pumpkin-spiced lattes return, Wales Air Ambulance is giving supporters the chance to brighten up autumn — and possibly win £3,000 — in its latest seasonal raffle.

Tickets cost just £1 each and are available now via the charity’s website. Entries close on Thursday, 20 November 2025, with the draw taking place on Monday, 24 November 2025.

The lucky first prize winner will take home £3,000, while second and third prizes of £500 and £300 are also up for grabs. Those who enter before 31 October will also be entered into a bonus draw for one of two £50 Amazon vouchers or a Cartwright and Butler hamper.

Phae Jones, Director of Income Generation at Wales Air Ambulance, said: “The children are back in school, the leaves are turning golden brown, and we’re getting closer to the festive season. By entering our raffle, you could make Christmas that extra special with a chance to win £3,000. Even the second and third prizes of £500 and £300 could make a real difference.”

Behind the fun, the raffle supports a vital cause. Funds raised will help the Wales Air Ambulance continue its lifesaving work across the country — providing critical care at the scene of life or limb-threatening emergencies.

The charity’s service is consultantled, bringing hospital-standard treatments directly to patients and transferring them to the most appropriate hospital when needed. This approach

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

can save crucial time and significantly improve survival and recovery rates.

Wales Air Ambulance operates through a unique partnership between the third sector and NHS Wales. The charity must raise £11.2 million every year to keep its helicopters flying and rapid response vehicles on the road.

Dr Ami Jones, a consultant with the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS), said: “As air ambulance crew, we see firsthand how money raised from fundraisers like the Autumn Raffle makes a real difference.

Your donations give people the best possible chance of survival and recovery. Thank you so much for your support.”

To enter the Wales Air Ambulance Autumn Raffle, visit: www.walesairambulance.com/ autumn-raffle

The alternative view By Mike Dello

A

MOMENTOUS WEEK IN POLITICS AND WORLD AFFAIRS

It has been quite a momentous week. Tuesday marked the second anniversary of the barbaric and cowardly slaughter of more than 1,200 Jewish souls in Israel by Hamas — an atrocity that triggered what has since become two years of genocidal retaliation by the Israeli regime. It was also sad to see, on the anniversary of this tragic day, pro-Palestine demonstrations taking place — even one in Haverfordwest, although you could count the participants on two hands.

The week coincided with Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and tragedy struck again — this time in Manchester — where another assassin, Jihad al-Shamie, brutally murdered two innocent men during a synagogue service and injured others.

The attack has, naturally,

provoked outrage within the Jewish community, many of whom have demanded more protection from government ministers, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy. While I have no time for this government, one must be realistic: with more than 400 synagogues across the UK serving some 83,000 worshippers, providing round-theclock police protection would require a force the size of the Chinese army. Perhaps the time has come for all faiths and churches to organise their own security arrangements.

Sir Keir Starmer, meanwhile, did little to ease tensions by announcing recognition of Palestine—long before Donald Trump’s expected attempt to broker a peace deal between Hamas and Netanyahu. My own conclusion remains unchanged: I have no time for either the Israeli regime or Hamas. It is always the innocents who suffer, never the men at the top.

CONFERENCE SEASON AND TORY CHAOS

The Conservative Party held its conference in Manchester, where the flagship announcements included a 150-page legal blueprint to withdraw from the European Court of Human Rights and push ahead with mass deportations if they win the next election. There was also talk of dismantling the Climate Change Act.

Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch delivered a credible speech, though audiences were sparse as Robert Jenrick’s popularity rose—some now see him as a rival to replace her. While Labour and the Liberal Democrats used their conferences to attack Nigel Farage and Reform UK, the Conservatives instead focused on Reform’s lack of policy detail. Yet even among loyalists, the same question was whispered in the corridors: why didn’t you do

all this during your fourteen years in power?

LABOUR’S HEADACHES

Meanwhile, the ever-controversial Angela Rayner continues to embarrass her party. It has emerged that her partner, Sam Tarry, has been using an £80,000 BMW to ferry his belongings between their two homes—at taxpayers’ expense. It rather proves that it takes more than saying “eh, by gum” to call yourself working class.

And finally, the junior doctors have voted to strike by an overwhelming 97%, fearing they will have no work when they qualify. The response from Labour minister Stephen Kinnock—describing the move as “needless and counterproductive”—shows just how quickly lofty principles can evaporate once power is within reach.

Council to back purchases of 10 more houses in Rosemarket

PEMBROKESHIRE council could have 10 more social housing units in its stock within the year after a housing purchase call was backed by senior councillors.

At the October 6 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members backed the purchase of the new build homes, a mixture of two and three-bed houses, currently under construction at Rose Haven, Rosemarket; the final agreement delegated to senior officers. This follows the backing of the purchase between 37 and 41 houses

agreed at the September meeting.

A report at the October meeting, presented by Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Michelle Bateman said:

“The council has a corporate priority that aims to increase the supply of affordable and social homes and is seeking to expand its housing stock and satisfy local housing need. These ‘off-the-self purchase’ opportunities would help towards both the council’s

300 new home target and also Welsh Governments 20,000 new homes target.

“In the context of housing development, an Off the Shelf purchase (OTS) consists of newly completed properties, offered on the open market by a contractor/developer for a fixed price on the basis of a single conveyancing contract.

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

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

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

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

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

Members unanimously backed the delegated purchase of the housing.

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

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Floating wind boost for Welsh jobs as Celtic Sea projects move ahead

TWO major offshore wind farms planned off the Welsh coast have taken a big step forward — and it could mean new opportunities for people and businesses in Pembrokeshire.

Equinor and Gwynt Glas, a joint venture between EDF Renewables and ESB, have signed official agreements with The Crown Estate to start developing two huge floating wind farms in the Celtic Sea.

Each site could generate up to 1.5 gigawatts of clean electricity — enough to power millions of homes — and both lie off the coasts of South Wales and South-West England.

The projects are part of the UK Government’s Round 5 offshore wind programme, which aims to make Wales a key player in renewable energy.

LOCAL JOBS AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Research shows that building the new wind farms could create more than 5,000 jobs and bring a £1.4 billion boost to the economy.

With Milford Haven already home to the Port of Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock Marine and a growing cluster of energy firms, the Celtic Sea projects are expected to open up major opportunities for local workers, engineers and contractors.

Developers have agreed that at least 3.5% of new workers will be apprentices, and that 10% of recruits aged 19 to 24 will come from young people not currently in education or work.

The next steps include detailed project designs, environmental surveys and public consultations before full construction leases can be granted, with turbines expected to be operational by the mid-2030s.

‘A MAJOR VOTE OF CONFIDENCE’

Gus Jaspert, Managing Director for Marine at The Crown Estate, said: “These projects will provide millions of homes with clean energy and support thousands of new jobs. They show how the UK – and Wales in particular – remains at the cutting edge of renewable technology.”

Energy Minister Michael Shanks added: “This is about creating good jobs and cleaner power that we control ourselves. Wales is once again leading the way in innovation and energy.”

Rebecca Evans, the Welsh Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Energy, said: “Floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and I’m determined to make sure the benefits reach communities right across Wales.”

BIG POTENTIAL FOR MILFORD HAVEN

Local leaders say Pembrokeshire is perfectly placed to benefit from the Celtic Sea wind revolution. The deepwater port at Milford Haven, together with new investment at Pembroke Dock Marine, could make the area a key base for building, maintaining and supporting offshore turbines.

If all goes ahead, the projects could mean hundreds of skilled jobs in the Haven Waterway – from welders and marine engineers to environmental scientists and apprentices learning new green skills.

As one local industry insider put it: “This isn’t just about wind power – it’s about bringing long-term work, training and pride back to the docks.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

New ‘Tension Buoy’ innovation could help expand floating solar and hydro power

A NEW Norwegian innovation could open the door for floating solar and hydro power projects across Wales, including the Celtic Sea and inland reservoirs.

The “Tension Buoy”, developed by renewable technology company

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Fred. Olsen 1848, is designed to maintain stable mooring for floating solar platforms even when water levels

rise or fall dramatically. The system automatically adjusts its tension using a built-in winch, solving one of the biggest technical challenges for floating solar installations on dams and reservoirs.

Floating solar – panels mounted on buoyant platforms – is increasingly seen as a key partner to hydropower, allowing energy to be generated from the same water body without additional land use. When paired with hydropower dams, solar power can boost generation during dry periods or daylight hours, while hydro continues to supply baseload energy.

According to Fred. Olsen 1848, this combination could unlock hundreds of gigawatts of renewable potential worldwide. The company’s new Tension Buoy adapts automatically to fluctuating water levels, maintaining optimal tension without manual intervention and keeping floating solar arrays stable and secure.

Although the system was first deployed at Risør in Norway, the technology could soon have applications closer to home. With Pembrokeshire’s growing hydrogen and floating wind sector, experts say innovations like

this could complement the region’s renewable mix.

Marine Energy Wales and ORE Catapult have both highlighted the need for flexible mooring and hybrid energy systems to make best use of the Celtic Sea’s renewable potential. Floating solar, combined with hydropower or battery storage, could form part of future local energy hubs alongside the projects already being developed in Milford Haven.

Fred. Olsen 1848 says its goal is to make sustainable energy “more widely available to help combat climate change”, continuing a 175-year tradition of maritime innovation.

The company’s commercial manager, Martinius Hars, said the Tension Buoy “removes one of the main barriers to large-scale floating solar deployment” by offering a simple, reliable solution to water-level variation.

If adopted in Wales, such systems could help reservoirs, ports and hydro dams contribute to the UK’s Net Zero target while creating new opportunities for the local supply chain in marine renewables.

Eleven South Wales firms chosen for offshore wind boost

ELEVEN South Wales companies have been selected to take part in a major programme helping local firms win contracts in the fast-growing offshore wind industry.

The Fit For Offshore Renewables (F4OR) scheme, delivered by the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, supports businesses aiming to expand into the offshore renewable energy market or move from traditional industries such as oil and gas into clean energy.

This latest Welsh round of F4OR will focus on firms across the Swansea Bay City Region – including Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Swansea – and is jointly funded by The Crown Estate and the Swansea Bay City Deal Skills and Talent Programme. The programme is backed by the four local authorities, Swansea University and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

Dr Davood Sabaei, F4OR Programme Manager at ORE Catapult, said: “As the UK expands offshore wind in the years ahead, it’s vital that Welsh businesses are ready to seize the economic opportunities this will bring. Our partnership with The Crown Estate and the Swansea Bay City Deal allows ambitious local companies to strengthen their expertise, create skilled jobs and secure a place in a world-class

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

supply chain.”

The Celtic Sea, off the Pembrokeshire coast, is expected to play a major role in the UK’s journey to net zero. Up to 4.5 GW of floating wind power could be delivered through The Crown Estate’s Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5, supporting an estimated 5,300 new jobs and adding £1.4 billion to the UK economy.

Rebecca Williams, Director of Devolved Nations at The Crown Estate, said: “The Celtic Sea will be central to the UK’s offshore wind future, and it’s fantastic to see so many South Wales companies getting ready to take advantage of this new era of green industry.”

Jane Lewis, Regional Learning and Skills Partnership Manager at Carmarthenshire County Council, added: “This is a thrilling time for businesses across the region. By nurturing new skills and building a future-ready workforce, South Wales can lead the charge in the green energy revolution.”

Among the companies selected are Davies Crane Hire Ltd of Port Talbot, Wall Colmonoy Ltd of Pontardawe, Gemmak Engineering of Swansea,

Materials of

and

Precision Engineering of

Each will receive tailored support to improve their readiness to tender for major offshore wind projects.

F4OR has already helped more than 170 UK companies since 2019. On average, participants have reported a 26 per cent increase in turnover and greater success in securing offshore wind contracts.

The Offshore Renewable Energy

(ORE) Catapult, founded by the UK Government in 2013, operates from sites across the UK including Wales. It works with industry to accelerate technology development, reduce costs and boost UK supply-chain growth.

The Swansea Bay City Deal’s Skills and Talent Programme supports training aligned to regional growth areas such as energy, smart manufacturing, life sciences and digital innovation.

R-Tech

Port Talbot

Llanelec

Neath.

End of an era as Terminal Records closes its doors after 45 years

MUSIC lovers across Pembrokeshire are saying goodbye to one of the county’s longestrunning independent shops, as Terminal Records prepares to close after 45 years of trading.

First opened in August 1980 by Martin Thompson, the legendary record shop has been a fixture of Haverfordwest’s music scene for generations. From its early days in the Riverside Market to its present home on Bridge Street, Terminal Records has survived the rise and fall of vinyl, cassettes, CDs and downloads — remaining a haven for collectors and music fans alike.

The shop’s Facebook page, run by long-time friend Roy Conolly, confirmed that October will mark the end of the road:

“Terminal Records will be a thing of the past in October after 45 years of trading. Take your pennies down there asap so you can say to generations as yet unborn, ‘I was there!’”

Locals have been encouraged to visit before the doors close for the final time, with opening hours on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Loyal customers have been reminiscing online, sharing photos, memories and praise for Martin — affectionately dubbed ‘Our Beloved Leader’.

A photograph by Deborah Tilley, showing the shop in its Riverside Market days, has been widely shared, along with pictures of Martin’s handdecorated paper bags — hundreds of which have been given away to customers over the years.

For many, Terminal Records has been more than just a shop. It has been part of Haverfordwest’s

Pembrokeshire second homes tax expected to stay at 150%

THE COUNCIL TAx premium on second homes in Pembrokeshire is expected to remain at 150 per cent after councillors were warned that any reduction could lead to higher bills for everyone else.

Late last year, members of Pembrokeshire County Council voted to lower the premium from 200 per cent to 150 per cent – effectively reducing it from a treble rate to a double-and-ahalf. Before that, second-home owners were paying a 100 per cent premium.

Under Welsh Government rules, local authorities can set a second-home premium as high as 300 per cent – a quadruple rate. The premium is applied not just to the county council element of council tax, but also to precepts for Dyfed-Powys Police and for town and community councils.

13.8% OF HOMES HAVE NO PERMANENT RESIDENT

A report for the county council’s

Cabinet meeting on October 6 showed that 13.8 per cent of properties in Pembrokeshire have no usual resident — including holiday lets, empty homes and second homes — down from a peak of 14.6 per cent.

Four communities – Dale, Lamphey, Newport and The Havens – have second-home or holiday-let rates above 40 per cent, while 14 more communities have rates above 25 per cent.

PUBLIC SPLIT ON WHETHER PREMIUM SHOULD REMAIN

A summer consultation on the issue attracted 2,375 responses. Of those, 44 per cent said there should be no second-homes premium at all, while 24 per cent supported a 50 per cent premium and 18 per cent backed a 100 per cent premium.

Cabinet members were asked to recommend keeping the second-homes premium at 150 per cent and maintaining the long-term empty-property premium

at 300 per cent.

COUNCILLORS DIVIDED OVER FAIRNESS

Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, Cllr Alistair Cameron, told colleagues that reducing the second-homes premium to 100 per cent – as suggested by the Council Tax Working Group – would create a £2.6m shortfall in 2026-27, equivalent to a 3 per cent rise in general council tax.

Lamphey councillor Cllr Tessa Hodgson questioned the accuracy of figures for her ward, saying they may be distorted by a local chalet park.

“I’ve never been a fan of this additional tax on second-home owners,” she said. “It’s not all people turning up in Range Rovers with bags of Waitrose shopping – many are families who’ve inherited properties or use them for affordable holidays.”

She said she would prefer a 100 per cent rate or even abolition.

Cabinet Member Cllr Jacob Williams also opposed the premium, arguing that second-home owners already pay extra by using fewer council services.

FINAL DECISION DUE THIS WEEK

Members backed the Cabinet’s recommendation to keep the current rates. The proposal will go before the full council meeting on Wednesday (Oct 9) for a final decision.

cultural identity — a meeting place for generations of Pembrokeshire music lovers. Its closure marks the end of an era in the town’s history.

Developer helps apprentice build career in construction

AN 18-YEAR-OLD from Milford Haven is laying the foundations for a career in construction thanks to an apprenticeship with leading developer Lovell at its Augustus Grange site in Haverfordwest.

The placement is part of Lovell’s ongoing commitment to investing in future talent across Wales.

LEARNING THE TRADE

Marley O’Kell, who is in his second year at Pembrokeshire College, is working towards a qualification in Site Carpentry. Since August 2024 he has been employed by Cyfle Building Skills through its award-winning Shared Apprenticeship Scheme, beginning his full-time placement with Lovell in April 2025.

Inspired by his plumber father, Marley knew early on that a practical, hands-on career was right for him. He approached Cyfle Building Skills, which

offers young people the chance to gain experience with a range of employers across the construction industry.

The scheme appealed to Marley because it allows apprentices to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge, rather than being tied to one employer.

A HANDS-ON ExPERIENCE

Through Cyfle, Marley joined Lovell as an apprentice carpenter at Augustus Grange. The shared apprenticeship model enables him to progress at his own pace while gaining experience across different sites and specialisms.

He said: “I’ve always been hands-on and enjoyed working with tools, so an apprenticeship felt like a natural step. It allows me to learn on-site while gaining

real-world experience. I was drawn to carpentry because it combines precision, creativity and problemsolving.

“Lovell has a great reputation, and I knew I’d be learning from experienced professionals. It’s rewarding to see how the pieces come together.”

BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND SKILLS

Working at Augustus Grange has given Marley an insight into the full process of building new homes — from groundworks to final fix. He has learned the importance of teamwork, communication and collaboration across different trades.

“I’ve had a great mix of work and each task has helped me build my confidence and practical skills,” he said. “It’s motivating to know that what I’m doing will become part of homes where families will live for years to come.”

He encouraged others to follow the same path, adding: “If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship, go for it and don’t hold back. Be committed — the more experience you gain, the better your opportunities become.”

SUPPORT FOR FUTURE TALENT

Gemma Clissett, regional partnerships director at Lovell, said: “We’re proud to provide opportunities for young people to kickstart their careers and learn valuable skills. It’s fantastic to see apprentices like Marley thriving on-site. Investing in young talent is key to building the future of the construction industry.”

Paul Falzon, Marley’s supervisor at Cyfle Building Skills, added: “Marley has shown real commitment and enthusiasm throughout his journey. The shared apprenticeship scheme allows young people to gain varied experience and long-term employment prospects, and Marley is well on his way to a successful career.”

Amanda Roberts, community development facilitator at Pobl, said: “We’re pleased to support apprenticeships that help young people gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Investing in local talent not only benefits individuals but strengthens the communities where we work.”

ABOUT AUGUSTUS GRANGE

Augustus Grange, located off St David’s Road, is a mixed-tenure development delivered in partnership with Pobl Group. It provides 115 two and three-bedroom homes — 36 for open market sale and 79 affordable homes, including 37 shared ownership properties and 42 for affordable rent. Lovell has been building homes and communities across the UK for more than 50 years. To find out more, visit lovell.co.uk.

Cyfle Building Skills, which operates across five Welsh local authority regions, will this year celebrate its 1,000th apprentice milestone. For more information, visit cyflebuilding.co.uk.

Haverfordwest Mayor attends annual benefactors’ service

HAVERFORDWEST Town Council representatives joined civic dignitaries for the annual benefactors’ service of the Gild of Freemen of Haverfordwest at St Mary’s Church on Sunday (Oct 5).

The Mayor of Haverfordwest (centre) attended alongside the Deputy Lieutenant of Dyfed, representing His Majesty the King, together with other town mayors and their consorts.

The service, which celebrates the historic contributions of the town’s benefactors, is a long-standing tradition in Haverfordwest’s civic calendar.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Revolution in the rough: how the Herald shook up local news

A rogue wave in quiet waters

ON a grey July morning in 2013, a small team of reporters gathered a makeshift office Milford Haven’s Hamilton Terrace. The air smelled of ink, takeaway coffee, and fresh ambition. Outside, the docks shimmered with summer drizzle; tankers groaned in the estuary, a reminder that Pembrokeshire’s fortunes were often tethered to industries bigger than itself.

Inside, though, another tide was turning. That morning, the first edition of The Pembrokeshire Herald rolled

off the presses and onto newsstands across the county.

It was a gamble few thought wise. Regional journalism across the UK was collapsing. Newsrooms were closing at a rate of one a week. Advertising revenues had dried up, circulation was plummeting, and Wales was hit especially hard. Even the venerable Western Telegraph, with its 150-year pedigree and corporate backing, looked nervous.

And yet, the Herald sold out. Locals queued at corner shops and petrol stations to grab a copy. For £1, readers were promised something

rare: a paper that would be theirs— unafraid, unfiltered, and unpolished. welve years on, as the Herald breaks digital records with more than 14 million views in a single month, its story is one of survival, reinvention, and disruption. From council scandals to choir fundraisers, it has not only chronicled Pembrokeshire—it has changed how the county sees itself.

THE REBEL LAUNCH

The Herald’s beginnings were almost cinematic.

“Everyone thought we were mad,” recalls founding editor Thomas Sinclair, still at the helm today. “Papers were dying all around us, and here we were launching another one. But we believed Pembrokeshire deserved something better—something that didn’t just recycle press releases.”

The first issue carried stories that cut against the grain: a scathing piece on county hall overspending, a photoled feature on lifeboat volunteers, and letters from readers who felt ignored by the established media.

The ethos was simple: be the people’s paper. If a farmer in Crymych was angry about planning rules, or a pub landlord in Tenby had a gripe about business rates, they would find their voices printed alongside reports of Senedd debates and crime in Haverfordwest.

Within weeks, the Herald was shifting around 10,000 copies a week. For a county of just over 120,000 people, that was remarkable. Its early success rattled the Western Telegraph, which had long enjoyed unchallenged dominance.

By 2014, emboldened by sales, the Herald launched sister titles in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, signalling it wasn’t content with being a local irritant—it wanted to redefine journalism across West Wales.

GRIT, GROWTH, AND GRUDGES

The mid-2010s were the Herald’s golden years. Circulation climbed, digital traffic surged, and the paper became a lightning rod for controversy.

One of the fiercest battles came in 2016, when the Herald’s bold marketing—claiming it had overtaken the Western Telegraph in reach—

provoked a furious response. The Telegraph’s parent company complained to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), demanding the Herald prove its numbers.

Twice the ASA dismissed the complaints. “It was classic David versus Goliath,” Sinclair remembers. “They couldn’t stand that we were growing.”

The feud only raised the Herald’s profile. It doubled down on innovation: live-streaming council meetings, experimenting with podcasts, and even testing a radio station. Readers flocked to its coverage of issues like youth unemployment, mental health crises, and planning rows that reverberated from village halls to the Senedd floor.

BUT CONTROVERSY WAS NEVER FAR AWAY.

In 2013, an obscene advert accidentally slipped into print, sparking outrage—and free publicity.

In 2017, Sinclair himself was fined for breaching reporting restrictions in a sensitive case. Critics crowed, but supporters saw it as proof of a paper pushing boundaries.

“The Herald was messy,

sometimes chaotic,” says one former reporter. “But it was alive in a way local journalism hadn’t been in years.”

THE ABYSS

In October 2019, the wave almost broke.

The Herald’s parent company collapsed under the weight of spiralling print costs and a botched investment, shuttering three titles and threatening 24 jobs. “It was devastating,” Sinclair admits. “We’d built something people believed in, and suddenly it was gone.”

Forums filled with laments. One commenter wrote: “Without

Brian Hancock, Advertising Sales, in 2021

Staff at the First and Last pub in Pemroke Dock with the 500th Herald issue in 2022

the Herald, who’s going to ask the awkward questions?”

For Pembrokeshire—where 26% of residents are over 65 and rural isolation makes local news more than a luxury—the loss felt existential.

Salvation came unexpectedly. A Spanish print and media firm, Richographic España, swooped in with emergency funding. The Herald returned, leaner and chastened, but alive.

The scare revealed a hard truth: independent journalism is fragile. Without it, who holds local power to account?

THE DIGITAL DAWN

The near-death experience forced reinvention.

By 2023, with print costs unsustainable, the Herald made a radical move: it scrapped print altogether, pivoting to a free weekly 128-page digital edition.

The gamble paid off. The first e-edition was downloaded more than 100,000 times. With clickable ads, instant shares, and no paywalls, it reached corners of the county that had never picked up a paper copy.

Traffic exploded. Facebook followers climbed past 51,000

(overtaking the Western Telegraph’s 47,000), monthly web uniques hit half a million, and social engagement dwarfed that of rivals.

The Herald’s new strength was speed. While the Telegraph often waited to polish features, the Herald broke stories first:

• Avian flu detected near Roch.

• Military flyovers during Russian naval manoeuvres off the coast.

• RAAC concrete crises threatening local schools.

On X (formerly Twitter), users hailed it as the go-to for “what’s actually happening.”

RIVALRY REKINDLED

Herald editor Tom Sinclair in 2023

For more than a century, the Western Telegraph had been unchallenged. But the Herald’s swagger forced it to adapt.

That 2016 ASA spat was only the tip of the iceberg. The real battle was for hearts and eyeballs.

The Herald won them with raw immediacy. Viral stories of goats invading a churchyard or choirs raising money for cancer care travelled faster than any polished Telegraph feature.

Locals noticed. “The Herald feels like us—raw and real,” tweeted one user after coverage of council budget cuts.

Competition sharpened the entire ecosystem. With two strong voices jostling, Pembrokeshire readers got more scrutiny, more coverage, and more choice.

THE HERALD EFFECT — BUILDING PRIDE

If the Herald earned its reputation by ruffling feathers, it cemented its value by lifting spirits. Alongside exposes and political spats, the paper has consistently championed Pembrokeshire’s brighter side.

When the Ty Newydd pub in Dinas Cross faced closure in 2023, Herald coverage helped galvanise more than 200 locals into raising the cash to save it. “Inspiring local journalism at its best,” one X user wrote as the victory went viral.

Schools, too, have felt the Herald’s boost. Milford Haven School’s Gold Calon Y Gymuned award for family engagement in July 2023 was splashed across its pages, with headteacher Sara Davies crediting the coverage for “putting community success on the map.” A year later, the Herald’s GCSE features turned dry exam stats into proud family moments, with parents flooding its comments section to thank it for spotlighting their children. The paper’s business coverage often

becomes a loop of positivity. In 2024, when hardware stalwarts W.B. Griffiths & Son scooped a £2,000 Pembs Lottery prize, they pledged it to local projects — citing the Herald’s years of community coverage as a key motivator. “It keeps us connected,” the owners said.

And when Pembrokeshire County Council secured the insport Gold Standard for inclusive sport, Disability Sport Wales hailed it as a “remarkable milestone” — and locals praised the Herald for making it front-page news. These moments reveal something the numbers alone can’t: that the Herald is more than a scrappy watchdog. It’s also a mirror of community pride, amplifying joy as fiercely as it scrutinises power.

THE GLOBAL LENS

Perhaps the most surprising twist in the Herald’s evolution has come since its digital relaunch: the paper is no longer just Pembrokeshire’s chronicler. Increasingly, it is a bridge between the local and the global.

Take the Jaguar Land Rover cyberattack in September 2025. The story was everywhere—production halted at JLR’s UK plants, suppliers fearing collapse, the UK government stepping in with a £1.5 billion loan. National headlines framed it as a crisis for British industry.

The Herald’s version? A piece titled “JLR cyber-attack sparks fears for Welsh supply chain”. Within hours of the news breaking, Sinclair had tied the story to ZF Automotive in Pontypool, a Welsh supplier employing dozens and recently backed by Welsh Government cash. The message was clear: what happens in Solihull or Delhi could hit Wales next.

A few days earlier, the Herald had run multiple articles on the Charlie Kirk shooting in the US. Where national media focused on America’s gun politics, the Herald made it resonate

in Wales: local MSs Samuel Kurtz and Darren Millar linked the killing to free speech debates in Welsh universities, even pushing for a Senedd tribute.

THIS IS THE NEW HERALD PLAYBOOK: START GLOBAL, END LOCAL

• Bank closures in Haverfordwest become part of Chinese state media coverage on UK economic decline.

• Ukraine aid debates turn into stories

about how sanctions

farmers.

• US tariffs get framed through Pembrokeshire exporters.

It’s not dilution. It’s amplification. In an era when readers can access global news with a swipe, the Herald’s edge is showing why it matters here—in Fishguard, in Tenby, in Milford Haven.

ECHOES IN THE COMMUNITY

hit Welsh

New tech: Herald staff experimenting with pod casting equipment in 2023

Papers on sale in Sainsbury’s Tenby in 2023

Beyond clicks and rivalries, the Herald’s impact is measured in voices amplified and lives touched.

It campaigned against the digital divide for Welsh speakers.

It investigated care home standards and planning controversies that spurred petitions.

It exposed scams targeting pensioners, warning thousands before more damage was done.

In a county where business survival rates are half the Welsh average, its coverage of grants, investments, and community projects kept people informed about lifelines.

“Without the Herald, I’d never have known about the funding that helped me save my shop,” says a Tenby café owner.

And when Pembrokeshire’s small producers — from vineyards to leatherworkers — took their products to Westminster, the Herald was there to capture it. MP Henry Tufnell later remarked that its stories “drive innovation and prosperity,” showing the paper’s role in amplifying the rural economy.

Even social media tells the tale. The Pembrokeshire Vikings rugby team thanked the Herald for sponsoring a player’s birthday celebration. The Welsh Organic Tannery posted “Diolch” for Herald photos of their Christmas Fair

success. And PR agencies regularly highlight Herald stories as proof of local buzz. In an age of fleeting feeds, those simple thank-yous show a deeper truth: the community sees the Herald not just as a newspaper, but as a neighbour.

LESSONS AND THE ROAD AHEAD

Twelve years on, the Herald stands as proof that local news can adapt. From its scrappy print launch to its free digital empire, it has shown survival is possible—even in the harshest climate.

BUT THE QUESTIONS REMAIN:

• Can the free model sustain itself long-term?

• Will more partnerships with the BBC or AI-driven alerts keep it ahead?

• Could its blueprint be copied in other rural counties starved of news?

For now, Sinclair is reflective but resolute. “We’ve shown local news isn’t dying—it’s adapting. From print rebels to digital warriors, we’ve kept Pembrokeshire’s pulse beating.”

The Irish Sea still pounds Pembrokeshire’s cliffs. Sheep still outnumber people. But thanks to one rogue wave of a newspaper, the county’s stories are louder, sharper, and freer than ever.

Herald Deputy Editor Jon Coles in 2021

Young couple leave the nest and buy dream first home

A PEMBROKESHIRE couple have bought their first home together at Lovell Homes’ new Augustus Grange development in Haverfordwest, after previously living with their parents.

Flavia Jenkins, 22, and Tom Meredith, 25, moved into a threebedroom Lambourne-style home earlier this year after deciding it was time to take the plunge and get onto the property ladder.

Flavia, who works as a teaching assistant, said: “We both lived with our parents prior to buying this home and were keen to take the plunge and buy our first home together, so we set a target for each month and year that we wanted to save to make sure we could achieve our goal.”

Tom, a rugby development officer, added: “We chose a new build as we wanted a blank canvas that we could make our own and put our own stamp on. We bought with Lovell Homes as we felt they were a quality company that took pride in what they do. Augustus Grange stood out to us as we were impressed by the quality finish of the homes and how spacious not just the house, but the development is.”

The couple purchased their property using the Help to Buy Wales scheme, which was due to end in March 2025 but

of a 75 per cent mortgage and a 20 per cent equity loan, which is interest-free for the first five years.

we would definitely recommend Lovell Homes to family and friends.”

Now settled in their new home, the couple say they are delighted with their choice. Tom said: “We chose the Lambourne-style home as it is spacious and has a lovely garden. We really like the layout of the house, as it’s a good size that suits what we wanted. The local area is ideal too, and it definitely feels like we are in an up-and-coming area. We’re incredibly happy with our choice and love coming home and being in our own space.”

Augustus Grange, located off St David’s Road, is a mixed-tenure development being delivered with Pobl Group, providing a total of 115 two and three-bedroom homes just six miles from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

To find out more about Augustus Grange, visit newhomes.lovell.co.uk/ developments/augustus-grangehaverfordwest or call 01437 468 024. The development is open seven days a week from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

has now been extended to September 2026. The scheme helps people step onto or move up the property ladder by allowing buyers to purchase a newbuild home with just a five per cent deposit. The remaining cost is made up

Flavia said the Lovell team were supportive throughout the buying process: “The process went as smoothly as it could. Our sales executive, Adrienne, was really good and communicated well with us, and

This year, Lovell Homes achieved Gold for customer service with InHouse Research, with an impressive 95.5 per cent of customers saying they would recommend Lovell to family and friends.

Coastal Forum marks quarter-century of collaboration and innovation

FIRST MINISTER JOINS 25YEAR CELEBRATION OF COASTAL PARTNERSHIP PEMBROKESHIRE COASTAL

FORUM has marked its 25th anniversary with a milestone celebration in Haverfordwest, recognising a quarter century of local collaboration and innovation in protecting Wales’ coastline.

The event was attended by the First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, alongside founding members, board members, staff, and partners from local government, conservation, industry, academia and community organisations. The gathering reflected the strength of partnerships that have supported PCF

since its creation in 2000, following the Sea Empress oil spill.

Guests explored a visual timeline charting PCF’s journey over the past twenty-five years and reviewed the newly released 2024–25 Impact Report, which outlines measurable outcomes of the organisation’s work.

According to the report, PCF’s projects in 2024–25 generated more than £3.8 million in social value — representing the tangible benefits delivered to communities, nature and the coast through partnership-led action. Over the year, PCF engaged with more than 255 organisations, working on projects including marine renewable energy, climate adaptation, education

and skills, sustainable recreation and land-based water quality improvements.

Since its formation, PCF has focused on five core areas: Marine Renewable Energy, Climate Adaptation, Education, Skills & Engagement, Responsible Recreation, and Water Quality & Land Use. While rooted in Pembrokeshire, many of its initiatives have gone on to influence national policy, promote behavioural change and strengthen coastal resilience across Wales.

The Chair, Nick Ainger, said: “For 25 years the PCF team have truly believed in our values and mission – inspiring, collaborating and delivering solutions for sustainable coastal communities.”

Former Director, Tonia Forsyth, added: “What underpins Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum’s success is the people – from those who sparked the original idea, to the leaders, partners and communities who believe in it, and the dedicated team delivering impact every day.”

The event was both a reflection on past achievements and a reaffirmation of PCF’s ongoing mission to unite partners in tackling the climate and nature emergencies facing coastal communities today.

The report is available to download at www.pembrokeshirecoastalforum. org.uk/impact-report

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Pembrokeshire MSs support Macmillan Coffee Morning at the Senedd

PEMBROKESHIRE Senedd

Members Paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz have shown their support for people living with cancer by attending the annual Macmillan Coffee Morning at the Senedd.

The event, which brought together MSs from across Wales, celebrated the vital work of Macmillan Cancer Support in helping people with cancer and their families. Macmillan’s Coffee Mornings, held in communities across the UK, raise awareness and much-needed funds to ensure those affected by cancer receive the care and support they need.

Both Members praised the charity’s work and recognised the generosity of people in Pembrokeshire who continue to back fundraising efforts year after year.

Samuel Kurtz MS said: “It was fantastic to attend the Macmillan Coffee Morning at the Senedd and show my support for the outstanding work Macmillan does across West Wales.

“So many of us know friends, family members, or neighbours whose lives have been touched by cancer, and the support that Macmillan provides makes a huge difference in helping people through incredibly difficult times.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

“I would like to pay tribute to the many local volunteers and fundraisers who give their time and energy to support Macmillan. Every cake baked, every pound raised really does go a long way to ensuring that people living

with cancer do not face it alone.”

Paul Davies MS added: “Macmillan does a fantastic job of supporting cancer patients throughout their journey, and I was proud to attend their Senedd coffee morning to show my support.

“As someone living with cancer, I’m very aware of the challenges

that people face. Macmillan offers practical help, support and advice, so that people can live as fully as they can.

“Every cuppa matters – by hosting these fun events, not only are people brought together, but vital funds are raised so that Macmillan can continue offering support to those who need it.”

Pembrokeshire College modernisation works approved

PLANS to modernise Haverfordwest’s Pembrokeshire College with a new entrance and an advanced ‘virtual’ training suite – the first of its kind for a higher education institution in Wales – have been approved.

Pembrokeshire College, based at Merlins Bridge, applied through Powell Dobson Architects to demolish its existing entrance and replace it with a two-storey structure incorporating specialist teaching spaces.

The college campus was originally built in 1987. A supporting statement described the proposals as part of a wider “masterplan” to expand and rationalise facilities: “The college has long struggled to maintain its existing main entrance, which faces due west and suffers harsh driving rain and strong winds during the winter. This often causes the doors to fail and rain to enter the atrium, giving a negative experience for staff, students and visitors.”

The new entrance will provide improved sheltered access, waiting areas for students, and a more welcoming public realm. It will also house new teaching and technologyfocused facilities, including an immersive training suite.

to simulate a wide range of realworld training settings. At present, similar facilities exist only at Swansea University.

The suite will be a fully interactive room with 360-degree projections and advanced environmental controls

A council officer’s report said the development would also include staff offices on the ground floor, a new

reception area, a first-floor boardroom, and four digital classrooms. It emphasised that the works are intended to improve the learning environment rather than increase student numbers. The application was approved subject to conditions.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Herald launches countywide Community Correspondents Scheme

THE HERALD has launched a new Community Correspondents Scheme, inviting people from all over Pembrokeshire to help share the stories that matter most in their towns and villages — and the response has already been remarkable.

Within hours of the announcement, the first volunteers came forward, including residents keen to cover charity fundraisers, local council meetings, grassroots sports, school events, and community celebrations in their areas.

The idea is simple — anyone can take part. All you need is a pen, some paper, and a phone.

The Herald wants to build a network of trusted community correspondents and photographers across the county — from Tenby to Fishguard, Haverfordwest to Cardigan — so that no story, event, or achievement goes unnoticed.

Correspondents will help by attending town and community council meetings to report key decisions, highlighting positive local stories, and covering the everyday events that bring people together. The scheme also welcomes community photographers to capture life in Pembrokeshire — from coastal festivals and concerts to junior football matches and village fetes.

Editor Tom Sinclair said the initiative

is designed to strengthen local voices: “We want to make sure good news, local achievements and community stories don’t slip through the cracks. Pembrokeshire is full of people doing amazing things, and this scheme gives them the chance to share those moments directly with thousands of readers each week.”

The Herald e-paper is read by more than 17,000 people every week, while the brand’s Facebook reach tops 14 million a month, with over 1.5 million engagements. Stories and photos shared by community correspondents could be seen by audiences across Wales and beyond.

The scheme is ideal for:

• Retired journalists and photographers who’d like to stay connected.

• Students or young people looking for media experience.

• Community-minded residents who already attend local events or meetings.

• Amateur photographers keen to see their work published.

Tom added: “All submitted work will be checked and edited before publication, so there’s no pressure if you’re unsure about how to write something. We’ll guide and advise everyone who takes part — it’s about helping people develop their confidence and giving local voices a bigger platform.”

He continued: “Our team already gives countless extra hours to keep the Herald free for Pembrokeshire, and we already work with several unpaid contributors who share our passion for local news. This new scheme takes that idea countywide.”

Anyone interested in joining the Herald Community Correspondents Scheme can email editor@herald. email with their name, location, and the kind of stories or photos they’d like to contribute.

Mixed feelings as new Haverfordwest footbridge opens

A NEW footbridge spanning the Western Cleddau in Haverfordwest will officially open on Friday (Oct 10) – marking another milestone in the ongoing Heart of Pembrokeshire regeneration project.

The striking turquoise structure, which links the town’s Western Quayside with the Riverside area, will be unveiled at a ceremony on Friday afternoon at 4:15pm.

The footbridge replaces the old crossing demolished during redevelopment works and forms part of a wider regeneration package that includes the Western Quayside transformation and the new public transport interchange.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

£6M ‘INSTAGRAMMABLE BRIDGE’

Costing around £6 million, the project has been funded by Pembrokeshire County Council, with support from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Programme.

The bridge has already gained a nickname among locals as “the Instagrammable bridge” due to its bold turquoise design and sleek modern architecture, which contrasts sharply with the surrounding historic

townscape.

While council leaders say it will improve access and footfall, others have criticised the price tag, questioning whether the money could have been better spent on more practical infrastructure.

PUBLIC REACTION DIVIDED

Reaction to the bridge has been mixed, with some residents praising its modern design while others questioned the cost and priorities behind the project.

“It looks lovely in Reform Party turquoise!” joked Richard Peacock on social media, drawing light-hearted

replies from others who called it the “Reform bridge.”

Others were more enthusiastic. Luke Panesar wrote: “Can’t wait – it looks amazing,” while William Mason added: “Fantastic, it’s going to make such a huge difference, especially after so many years of not being able to cross the river easily.”

But not everyone was convinced. Natalie Mayhew commented: “Just open it. It doesn’t need a ceremony,” while Zanda G Griffiths said he would have preferred investment in better pram access across the town rather than “a waste of money” on a new bridge.

PART OF WIDER REGENERATION

The new bridge and surrounding works are intended to boost footfall and accessibility in the county town, linking the redeveloped riverside area with new retail, hospitality, and public transport hubs.

Once the transport interchange is complete, the project aims to create a seamless connection between the town centre and the railway and bus stations, encouraging visitors and shoppers back into Haverfordwest.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council said the bridge is a symbol of the town’s transformation and will serve as a focal point for regeneration efforts along the river corridor.

Ozzy Osbourne: No Escape From Now unfolds like a requiem and a reckoning in equal measure, delivering a portrait of a rock icon grappling with his own fragility even as he chases the faint echo of a stage left behind. From the opening moments, there’s a rawness to the film that pulls you inside Ozzy’s world, not as the mythic Prince of Darkness but as a human being wounded, stubborn, and fiercely alive. The documentary tracks the six-year stretch between a catastrophic fall that broke his neck and his climactic final performance and death, threading together joy, pain, regret, and defiance. Because it

was conceived while Ozzy was still living, the film avoids the overtones of posthumous mythmaking; instead, it reacts to his decline with a kind of urgent compassion.

What grips you most is the access. Ozzy, Sharon, Jack, Kelly—none of them shirk from vulnerability. Ozzy’s moments of lucidity shine with hard-won clarity: there are admissions of despair, discussions of medical betrayal, and reflections on mortality that make even longtime fans see him anew.

Yet the film doesn’t wallow in suffering, choosing instead to juxtapose his physical decline

with his creative hunger. The time Ozzy still spent in the studio, despite his body’s betrayals, becomes a form of resistance—evidence that art mattered to him not merely as performance but as lifeline.

The strengths of No Escape From Now lie in its emotional honesty and the way it sidesteps simple heroism. You see a man who at once wants to disappear and to be remembered, who oscillates between isolation and connection. The edits sometimes feel abrupt and the cinematic flourishes—reenactment style visuals, sudden cuts between triumph and mortality—can jar, but they also mirror the turbulence of Ozzy’s mind. There are moments where the film seems unsure how much polish it owes its subject, but those are outweighed by the insight it delivers.

As a final chapter, the documentary is deeply affecting. It doesn’t offer tidy resolutions, because Ozzy’s life was never tidy. Instead it leaves you with the sense that his greatest performance may have been his refusal to fade quietly. Many fans will find it difficult—there’s heartbreak here—but many more will find in it a remarkable testament to endurance, love, and the fierce, flawed soul behind the legend.

CliCk to

THE anticipation surrounding Black Phone 2 feels freighted with both promise and peril: can a sequel to a taut, compact horror succeed when its villain was ostensibly defeated in the first film? In truth, Black Phone 2 doesn’t merely try to recapture the first film’s chill—it seeks to evolve it, to stretch the mythology, and to deepen the emotional stakes. The film picks up years later with Finney (now older, haunted, and volatile) and his sister Gwen, whose psychiclike dreams pull them toward a remote winter camp and toward truths that bind their family and the malevolent spirit of The Grabber. From the outset the film insists it will be bigger, bolder, and more ruthless than before, and for the most part it delivers.

The performances are a

core strength: Mason Thames embodies a young man teetering between trauma and rage, his haunted energy anchoring the film’s darker turns, while Madeleine McGraw’s Gwen radiates both determined vulnerability and a growing ferocity as she steps into her own central role. Ethan Hawke returns as The Grabber, now transformed into something more spectral and unmoored, and although the decision to resurrect a villain murdered in the first film could have been gimmicky, this iteration plays as a hybrid of supernatural horror and psychological haunt, with Hawke casting a long, twisted shadow that inflects the sequel with new menace.

Visually, Black Phone 2 embraces an 80s horror-inflected style, leaning into dream logic, chilling imagery, and bold set pieces. The snowbound camp,

shifting corridors of memory, and moments of surreal distortion all conspire to unsettle. Some sequences—especially those in Gwen’s dreamscapes—are genuinely nightmarish, and there’s a sustained ambition in how the film transitions from grounded terror to metaphysical confrontation. Yet the film is not without flaws: there are stretches where the exposition becomes heavy, where internal motivations are spelled out rather than felt, and where religious themes press so insistently that they sometimes distract from the emotional core rather than enrich it. At times the narrative feels torn between being horror as allegory and horror as visceral fear, and the balance occasionally slips.

Still, the climactic act largely redeems those shortcomings. The confrontation in the freezing terrain, the merging of dream and reality, the suffering and defiance of the characters—all of it lands with the force of emotional as well as physical horror. Black Phone 2 is not a perfect film, but it is a daring one: it stretches the original’s mythology, turns the terrifying into something more uncanny, and forces its young protagonists to reckon with the burdens of survival. Ultimately, it earns its place among the more ambitious horror sequels, offering scares, heart, and a haunting sense that the phone is still ringing.

Tech and Taff

K EEP YOUR DATA OUT OF DODGY HANDS , BOYO

By Professor Barrie Evans, University of Cardiff

THERE’S been another big digital whoopsie this week, boyo. Discord – the chat app where gamers talk nonsense for hours and occasionally play a game – has admitted that around 70,000 users’ ID photos may have been leaked after hackers targeted one of its partner firms.

Now, before anyone panics and starts deleting apps faster than a sheepdog at a fireworks display, Discord itself wasn’t breached. The culprits went after a third-party age-verification company, not the main platform. Even so, some users’ official ID photos, partial card details and customer service messages have gone walkabout.

No passwords were taken, thankfully, but it’s a reminder that every time we upload our driving licence or passport to some faceless “verification system,” we’re trusting strangers on the internet with our personal lives. And as any sensible Welsh mam will tell you, trust’s a rare commodity these days.

H ACKERS LOVE YOUR FACE MORE THAN YOU DO

Hackers adore this kind of stuff because your name and ID don’t change. You can cancel a credit card, but you can’t cancel your face — unless you’ve got very good plastic surgery and a quiet GP. Once that data’s out, it’s out.

Discord says it’s sorted the mess, told everyone affected, and cut ties with the company involved. Some folk online reckon it’s bigger than that, but Discord insists those claims are just chancers trying to make a few quid.

A BIT OF COMMON SENSE GOES A LONG WAY

The moral of the story? Think twice before flashing your ID at every app that asks for it. Turn on two-factor authentication, don’t click dodgy “data breach” emails, and for heaven’s sake don’t reuse the same password you used for your Neopets account in 2004.

Stay sharp, stay private, and remember — if you wouldn’t hand your driving licence to a random bloke down the pub in Ponty, don’t upload it to a server in San Francisco, boyo.

Evening of mediumship to raise funds for the Pink Robins

A SPIRITUAL fundraising evening is being held next month in aid of Pennar Robins’ women’s football team, the Pink Robins.

Popular medium Lee Mills will be hosting An Evening of Mediumship at Pembroke Dock Cricket Club on Friday, November 7.

The event promises an emotional and uplifting

night as Lee connects with audiences through messages from loved ones. Proceeds from the evening will go towards supporting the Pink Robins, helping the team with equipment, travel costs and ongoing club development.

Doors open at 6:30pm, with the event starting at 7:00pm. Tickets are priced at £10 per person,

with a £5 deposit required to secure a place.

A spokesperson for the Pink Robins said the night is an opportunity not only to raise vital funds, but also to bring the community together in support of local women’s sport. For tickets and more information, contact 07592 111655.

gaming

AS a long-time fan of Ninja Gaiden, hearing the announcement of Ninja Gaiden 4 felt like the return of an old friend, albeit one who’s grown sharper, darker, and more dangerous. The moment the trailers dropped, I could practically taste the tension: a rain-drenched Tokyo corrupted by the Dark Dragon’s miasma, silhouettes of monsters in the alleys, lightning flickering through shattered neon. That world feels familiar—but twisted. And the introduction of Yakumo, a new ninja from the Raven clan, alongside the iconic Ryu Hayabusa, gives the series the blood infusion it’s needed after years of silence.

From what’s shown, Ninja Gaiden 4 doesn’t shy away from its identity. The combat promises

to be brutal, immediate, and demanding. Enemies strike without mercy, and your missteps will be punished. But that’s part of the appeal. The addition of Yakumo’s “Bloodraven Form,” which lets him manipulate blood into devastating attacks, gives us a visceral twist on the franchise’s penchant for gore and spectacle. The classic Gaiden tools—parry windows, precise dodges, wall-running traversal— are still built into the bone structure, but the new traversal mechanics of rails, wires, and vertical movement hint at a more fluid, vertical sense of action than ever before.

I’m especially excited about the duality of playstyles. Watching Yakumo’s Raven and Nué styles juxtaposed with Ryu’s tried-andtrue techniques suggests that the game will reward experimentation. Love the old-school blade combat? You can lean into that with Ryu. Crave the flashy, high-risk, highreward mechanics? That’s where Yakumo shines. The risk is always that in trying to modernize, the core gets diluted—but I sense the developers know that balance has to tilt in favour of challenge and precision for fans like me.

Visually, the rain motif appears to be more than aesthetic. The notion that clothes cling, water drips from blades, and every surface reflects neon and grime in a way

that evokes a drenched dystopia gives the world breathing weight. That said, I hope performance remains rock solid; flashy effects are meaningless if they undermine responsiveness. If the build shown is representative, they seem to be pushing the engine hard— something I both admire and fear.

Narratively, I’m curious how they’ll thread Yakumo’s arc into Ryu’s mythos without making one overshadow the other. As a fan, I want Ryu to feel essential, not sidelined, and I hope Yakumo’s introduction serves to expand the lore, not replace it. If the game can weave in emotional moments amid the carnage, it’ll deepen the stakes.

There’s a question in my mind whether Ninja Gaiden 4 will alienate purists or feel like a reinterpretation. But early signs lean toward respect: nods to old moves, familiar enemy archetypes with new twists, and—crucially— the promise that difficulty isn’t being sacrificed. That’s what I hunger for: that sense of every encounter being a gauntlet you must earn. If Ninja Gaiden 4 delivers on its ambition, it won’t just resurrect the series—it may redefine it for a new generation while satisfying those of us who’ve been waiting in the dark.

HOROSCOPES

and get illuminating responses. If this bolder you feels comfortable, integrate more aggressiveness into your life.

LIBRA

Everything you need will be at your fingertips today, no matter how unprepared you may feel, so don’t worry! You can handle anything with grace and your customary wit. Expect to create a new admirer while you’re out running errands. See? Even your small talk sets you apart from others! If you’re worried about something, it’s just your fear talking, so just don’t listen any more. Instead, keep moving forward and prove to yourself how excellent you are!

SCORPIO

One of the best gifts you offer the world is your sparkling wit! Bring it out in full force today and have some harmless fun with other cute witty folk. Flirting can be fun whether you have any intention of following through or not. If you’re with someone who understands there’s nothing behind it, then flirt away. As long as you’re not leading anyone on, you can have a lot of good, clean fun. Plus, you’ll learn some new techniques that will come in very handy later.

SAGITTARIUS

It’s all about pushing boundaries today. There’s a strong energy of exploration hovering about right now, and you will be able to tweak a few taboos and enlighten some uptight folks. There are resources at your fingertips that might not fit the bill at first, but with a little creativity (and input from people around you) you can get your ideas across and open up a few notoriously narrow minds. Bring an old-fashioned person into the 21st century and they will thank you for it!

CAPRICORN

There have been some big changes with some of the people you love most in life. Check in on them to see what’s up. You may be surprised to learn of a new arrival. Get all the details you can, as quickly as you can. The wheels are turning in your mind, but your outlandish ideas may not be so outlandish after all. Keep pushing on just to see how far you can go. Act on your deepest convictions and the results will always be genuine.

AQUARIUS

After what seems like months of dealing with cranky, unfriendly people who aren’t at all open to seeing things your way, you’ve finally arrived at a

wiTh eddie The game gUrU

a Pe M brokeshire Pers P e C tive

by editor toM sinClair

W HEN THE COUNCIL TURNS ON THE PRESS - NEYLAND

IT says a lot about the state of a town council when the people running it spend more time attacking journalists than addressing the concerns of the public.

Over the last few weeks, Neyland Town Council has made more headlines than any other local authority in Pembrokeshire – not for good work, not for community projects, but for leaks, resignations, social media spats and bitter infighting.

Now, because The Pembrokeshire

Herald has published verified documents that expose what’s really going on behind the scenes, the focus has shifted from accountability to blame. Rather than answer questions, the Town Clerk has accused this newspaper of harassment for simply asking her to comment – a routine step in any newsroom, in any country that values press freedom.

Let’s be absolutely clear: the Herald stands by every word of its reporting.

Our stories on Neyland have been

DESERv ES BETTER

based entirely on official documents originating from the council itself –the Clerk’s own email to councillors, the council’s own job description, and the Ombudsman’s own data showing that Neyland accounts for more than half of all Code of Conduct complaints in Pembrokeshire. Nothing has been fabricated, exaggerated, or taken out of context. The evidence speaks for itself.

If that evidence is uncomfortable, the remedy is not to attack the messenger – it is to fix the problem.

The public has a right to know how their council is functioning. They have a right to see how decisions are being made, and whether those tasked with serving the town are upholding the standards expected of public office. When a Proper Officer uses laughing emojis to mock legitimate journalism and tells a local reporter to “bore off”, something is badly wrong.

And when that same officer calls a single polite email from a newspaper “harassment”, it exposes a deeper issue – a culture of hostility toward scrutiny and transparency.

Let’s remind ourselves what this

OPINION: SILENCE HAS BECOME COMPLICITY IN GAZZA’S SUFFERING

TWO years ago, on 7 October 2023, Hamas carried out a barbaric assault on Israeli civilians. More than a thousand innocent people were killed and hundreds taken hostage. It was terrorism in its purest, ugliest form – and it shocked the world.

But the moral clarity shown that day has faded into moral confusion. The West condemned Hamas, yet two years later tens of thousands of Palestinians lie dead under Israeli bombs. Gaza has been reduced to dust and despair. According to the United Nations, more than 69,000 people have been killed, most of them women and children. Hospitals have been flattened, aid convoys blocked, and hunger has become a weapon of war.

Plaid Cymru leaders Rhun ap Iorwerth and Liz Saville Roberts put it plainly this week: the bloodshed must end. Their statement, marking the anniversary of the Hamas massacre,

balances humanity on both sides –sympathy for the victims of terror, and outrage at the industrial-scale killing now taking place in Gaza. That is not weakness; it is moral consistency.

Israel’s government insists it is defending itself. Yet self-defence cannot mean collective punishment. Entire families have been erased, and a generation of children traumatised. When schools and refugee camps are bombed, the line between defence and destruction has long since vanished. The UN’s own commission of inquiry has accused Israel of genocide. Those words should chill every democratic leader who claims to stand for human rights.

And what of Britain? Our government continues to mouth platitudes while approving arms export licences and hosting diplomatic receptions. The same politicians who rightly condemned Hamas’s crimes have fallen silent as

is about. Neyland Town Council has been at the centre of fifteen Code of Conduct complaints in the past year. It has seen resignations, investigations, and allegations of bullying. Meetings descend into rows. The public is losing patience.

In any democracy worth its salt, that is exactly when the local press must step in. Our job is not to be liked – it is to hold power to account.

The Herald will continue to report on Neyland Town Council until the culture of secrecy and personal vendettas gives way to professionalism and respect for the community it is supposed to serve.

If that makes some people uncomfortable, so be it. That’s what journalism is for.

That silence is complicity.

A permanent ceasefire is not a radical demand; it is the minimum threshold of humanity. Without it, food cannot reach the living and the dead cannot even be buried. Aid agencies are warning of famine. Hospitals have no fuel to run incubators. Civilians are being crushed between political calculations and military pride. Every hour of delay costs lives.

There are hostages still waiting to come home. There are Israeli parents living with unhealed trauma. There are Palestinian parents digging through rubble for their children. None of them are served by this endless war.

The world cannot claim ignorance. The images from Gaza fill our screens daily. The moral test is whether we look away or act. As Plaid Cymru’s leaders said, “Every day of inaction allows more suffering – there can be no more delay.”

They are right.

Wales has long stood with the oppressed. From the miners who boycotted apartheid coal to the communities that welcomed refugees, our small nation has never been afraid to speak truth to power. Today that tradition demands we speak again: stop the killing, free the hostages, open the borders to aid, and hold all perpetrators of war crimes to account – whether Hamas or the Israeli government. History will not remember those who stayed neutral in the face of atrocity. It will remember who had the courage to call it what it is and to demand an end. Two years after the horrors of 7 October, the world has learned nothing. The promise of “never again” rings hollow while Gaza burns.

It is time for Britain, and for every government that claims to value life, to rediscover its conscience. Ceasefire now – because anything less is a choice to look away.

Gaza starves.

Badger and the monsters among us

BADGER is a byword for tolerance. He examines things from all sides before deciding that his initial conclusion was the right one, that every other possible answer is wrong, and those suggesting them are idiots. In extreme circumstances, he’ll conclude those who disagree with him are wellmeaning or misguided idiots. But, still, they’re idiots.

With that sort of self-assurance in his own rightness, Badger should be a county councillor. Or write fusillades on social media posts calling those who disagree with him “lefties”, “fascists”, or “fascist lefties”. However, as Badger regards most comments on social media as a source of low comedy and high farce, he’s too busy giggling at them to bother unless it’s to correct a particularly annoying factual error of the “What about Magna Carta? Did she die in vain?” type.

Honestly, readers, there are people out there tapping on their keyboards who believe - really believe - that Atlanteans built the pyramids using advanced technology and representative of advanced alien civilisations travel light-years across the universe to stick things up American bottoms.

And some people, many of them working for the UK’s mainstream media outlets, think the Jews are to blame for the ills of the modern world, not to mention the World Trade Centre attacks in 2001 and the rape and murder of music festival attendees and children in 2023.

And that is where Badger’s tolerance meets the buffers.

Badger is a great believer in what’s called “the Principle of Parsimony”, which is sometimes called “Occam’s Razor”. Broadly put, the Principle of Parsimony provides that the simplest explanation is generally preferred, assuming it performs as well as more complex alternatives. There is an obvious extension to the Principle, namely that the more complicating factors introduced into analysis, the greater the risk of error as a result.

Let’s go back to what Badger said about the pyramids. The Egyptians built them. They made numerous attempts to perfect the process before achieving success.

Now, it might be nice to imagine kindly Atlanteans using technology now lost gave them a helping hand.

However, once you introduce that sort of external agency, the model begins to fray, not least because Plato demonstrably created the myth of Atlantis to make a philosophical point about the ideal state.

There is also a certain species of pseudo-historian whose Atlantis Pyramid Scheme is a crude mask for racism. Their rationale is that Stone Age Africans were too backward and primitive to have created such feats of engineering, so “more advanced” Europeans (or aliens) must have helped them. That’s certainly not exclusively the case, but fringe beliefs of that type have long roots in 19th-century white supremacism.

Forgive Badger that digression, but it really does tie into a serious point. If you go hunting for conspiracies, Badger guarantees you’ll find them. Similarly, if you are biased against a person or a group, not only will you tend to believe conspiratorial ideas about them, but you will also reject facts (you won’t even see them as facts) that contradict your preconceptions or prejudices. Moreover, where you run up against a fact you cannot deny, you will diminish it by analogy to another unrelated fact (see: “whataboutery”).

On Yom Kippur, the Jewish New Year, a Muslim British citizen went to a synagogue in Manchester. He intended to threaten and harm worshippers for no other reason than that they are Jewish. He drove a car into pedestrians, carried a weapon, and wore a fake suicide belt. He did those things because he hated Jews.

Faced with incontrovertible proof that a British Muslim intended to commit an act of terrorism, the government responded with the usual pile of soft soap about “our values” and “communities”. There is a thread running through such vacuous waffle, and it is this: politicians believe in the power of words. If they say words often enough, people will come to believe them. There is no waffle emptier in modern life, let alone modern politics, than the idea of “communities”.

Once you start talking about communities, you start dividing people up, whether by race, sex, age, religion, nationality, or anything(!). Once you acknowledge divisions, you draw attention to them. Once you draw attention to them, different communities

become apparent to one another, and lines of difference begin to emerge.

“We must bring our communities together” is a fine sentiment. Unfortunately, it comes with a caveat. The bit that’s unsaid by politicians who say it. “We must bring our communities together, to agree with me.”

Every time a politician talks about communities and bringing them together, and Badger couldn’t give a stuff whether it’s Keir Starmer, Ed Davey, Kemi Badenoch, or Nigel Farage (the KGB is a community, right?), Badger’s hackles rise.

In the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the synagogue in Manchester, the predictable line came out about bringing communities together. Badger felt himself begin gagging. Murder and violence are bad enough without having an editorial writer from The Guardian telling you what to think.

However, if we are playing the “bring our communities together” game, Badger has an idea for politicians. Try talking to people with whom you wouldn’t usually bother speaking. This week, a Senedd Committee published a paper titled ‘Co-operation over Conflict: Wales must Act.’ The report warned that rising tensions, misinformation and extremist activity are putting public trust, safety and democracy at risk. So far, so Badger. But all that was undone by a key recommendation. What Wales needed, its authors suggested,

was an Expert Panel to come up with ideas about how to bring communities together.

An Expert Panel.

And, who, pray tell, would be on this Panel?

Badger knows. You know, too, readers. The usual suspects from special interest groups, governmentfunded NGOs, woo-woo academics, and a Welsh speaker from Bangor. For the love of Christ, readers!

The purpose of government is not only to govern, but also to set the tone for society. You’re not going to get anywhere by bringing together an “Expert Panel” of people you find agreeable and who find each other congenial. An expert panel serves as a shield for fearful politicians who see their reality crumbling and their utopian dreams fading as they fall into the chasm between themselves and the voters.

There is a simple moral, readers: if you only ever listen to views you like, you’ll never learn anything. Suppose politicians truly want to understand why parts of society despise each other. In that case, they must speak with people and find out. Not experts. Not party members. Not people they know and like. Speak to the people face-to-face, not through focus groups or engagement panels. In person. Unfiltered.

Crazy politics: Why America is destroying rainbows

CAWWW! YOU WON’T believe this one, butt. I was sittin’ on the roof of the Harbourmaster’s Office, mindin’ me own business and eyein’ up a half-eaten pasty someone left by the bins, when I heard a story that nearly made me fall clean off the ledge.

Turns out, over in America — the so-called “Land of the Free” — they’ve started digging up rainbows. Aye, proper rainbows. Not puddles of paint or dodgy murals, but those bright, happy rainbow crosswalks that make the place look less like a motorway and more like a celebration.

Down in Miami, a gang of city workers were out with shovels and tar, scraping the colours right off the road. Why? Because their governor, Ron “Raincloud” DeSantis, has decided that colourful stripes on the ground are now too political. I kid you not. The man’s got a vendetta against joy itself.

See, he’s ordered all the local councils to get rid of any “ideological street art.” That means rainbow crossings, Pride murals, and anything that might suggest people are, heaven forbid, happy to be different. The poor fellas in Miami Beach said it was “routine maintenance.” Aye, and I’m the King of Norway.

Apparently, Florida’s Department of Transportation told them that nonstandard markings were “unsafe.” Unsafe! I’ve landed on more slippery chips than that crosswalk ever was, and I’m still here squawking. If that’s unsafe, they better ban sunsets too, because those are downright dazzling.

Now, look, I’m not what you’d call a political bird. My manifesto mostly involves more bins and fewer cats. But

when you start policing colours, you’ve gone properly loopy. What’s next, a law against parrots? Fines for tropical fish? A night-time curfew on peacocks?

And the thing is, butt, it’s not really about the rainbow, is it? It’s about fear. The kind of fear that lives in small hearts and loud mouths. Fear of difference. Fear that someone else’s happiness might be catching. The rainbow’s an easy target because it’s visible, it’s joyful, and it doesn’t apologise for existing — which is everything modern politics seems to hate.

Meanwhile, here in Pembrokeshire, we’ve got our own rainbows — proper Welsh ones that arch over the docks after a downpour, shining through the diesel mist like nature’s way of saying “chin up.” Nobody’s trying to dig those up, not yet anyway. Mind you, if the council ever decides to resurface the road by the pier, I might start guarding it myself.

Back in America, though, they’re calling it “cleaning up the streets.” You what? The streets weren’t dirty until they started tearing them apart. There’s something deeply ironic about a government that bans books, bullies teachers, and digs up rainbows calling itself “clean.”

See, it used to be that America told the rest of the world to be yourself. Now it’s telling its own citizens to tone it down, tuck it in, and stay inside the lines — literally. They’ve gone from “Give me liberty or give me death” to “Give me beige or give me fines.”

Over here, when we see a rainbow, we don’t panic — we take a picture, stick it on Facebook, and say, “Look, there’s one over the Haven!” We don’t call the council. We don’t send in the tar truck. We just enjoy it while it lasts, because that’s what life’s about, innit?

So next time you see a rainbow, give it a proper nod from old Stephen. It’s not a threat, it’s not an agenda, and it certainly doesn’t need state approval. It’s just a reminder that even after the worst storm, there’s still colour in the sky — and no governor, no bureaucrat, and no daft order from Tallahassee can change that.

CAWWW! Till next time, keep your chips close, your feathers dry, and your colours flying high.

UK’s largest exotic pet cruelty case raises alarm for Wales

A COURT case involving the rescue of nearly two thousand exotic animals from properties in Shropshire has sent shockwaves through the animal welfare community — and prompted calls for tighter regulation in Wales.

The investigation, known as Operation Herald, saw 1,870 live animals — including geckos, tortoises, snakes, parrots and lizards — seized from several sites in Shropshire in what the RSPCA described as one of the largest exotic pet operations it has ever undertaken.

Many of the animals were found in cold, cramped and filthy conditions, with some discovered dead or dying. In total, 399 animals either died or were euthanised due to their poor condition.

At Shrewsbury Crown Court, David Neville Johnson, 37, of

Manchester, was handed a 24week suspended sentence, ordered to complete 125 hours of unpaid work, and banned from keeping animals for 16 years.

WARNING FOR WALES

Although the case took place

in England, RSPCA Cymru has warned that Wales is not immune from similar cases of neglect, as exotic pets grow increasingly popular.

The charity says the lack of statutory regulation for many animal welfare establishments in Wales leaves a dangerous gap

that can allow poor conditions to go unnoticed.

CALL FOR STRONGER LAWS

A spokesperson for RSPCA Cymru said: “While this shocking case occurred in England, it serves as a warning to Wales. There is currently no statutory regulation in Wales for many exotic or rescue establishments, meaning welfare risks can escalate unchecked.

“We need stronger legal safeguards, better enforcement, and greater public understanding of exotic pet care to prevent situations like this ever happening here.”

The charity continues to campaign for new licensing laws in Wales to ensure consistent welfare standards across the country and to protect exotic species that rely entirely on their owners for survival.

Appeal launched to help Biscuit breathe easier and find a loving home

A FUNDRAISING appeal has been launched to help a neglected dog named Biscuit receive vital surgery after she was rescued from unlicensed breeders in West Wales.

Biscuit was found severely malnourished and suffering from breathing problems after being discarded shortly after giving birth to a litter of puppies. She is now being cared for by West Wales Poundies Dog Rescue, a volunteer-run charity that saves dogs from destruction in council pounds.

The charity says Biscuit

needs an operation costing around £1,000 to help her breathe properly and improve her quality of life. Once she has recovered, she will be ready to find her forever home.

Emma Pienaar, who is helping to raise funds for Biscuit’s care, said the operation could change the dog’s life completely.

“Biscuit has been through so much, but she’s still so gentle and loving,” she said. “With this operation she’ll finally be able to live comfortably and enjoy the kind of life every dog

deserves.”

West Wales Poundies Dog Rescue relies entirely on donations and volunteer support. The charity said: “Dogs arriving at council pounds have just seven days to be claimed by their owners. After that, if there’s space, we take them in. If not, they risk being destroyed. Every donation helps us save lives like Biscuit’s.”

Donations can be made through the GoFundMe page at: www.gofundme.com/f/helpbiscuit-have-the-quality-lifeshe-deserves

“For me, it’s the

best job in the world” – celebrating World Teachers’ Day

ON World Teachers’ Day (October 5), the Welsh Government has highlighted the many ways people can begin a career in teaching — with salaries now starting at £33,700 and rising to £146,300 for headteachers.

Teaching remains one of the most rewarding professions, with high demand across Wales, particularly for secondary school teachers in key subjects such as

biology, chemistry, design and technology, ICT, mathematics, modern foreign languages, physics and Welsh.

ROUTES INTO TEACHING

To encourage more people into the profession, the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, has confirmed a package of incentives for 2026. These include the Priority Subject

rewarding.

“For me, it is the best job in the world, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to earn while qualifying. Teaching lets me use both my science and Welsh language skills every day. I’d encourage anyone thinking about it to explore the options and go for it.”

“VITAL TO ATTRACT NEW TALENT”

Lisa Williams, headteacher at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Rhydywaun, said flexible routes such as the salaried PGCE are vital for Welsh schools.

She said: “Recruitment, especially in Welsh-medium schools, can be challenging. These pathways open doors for talented people who might not otherwise have entered the profession. They enrich schools with a wider range of experience and skills, strengthening the future of Welsh education.”

Incentive, Minority Ethnic Incentive, and the Welsh-language incentive Iaith Athrawon Yfory.

Postgraduate incentives of up to £25,000 are available for those taking the non-salaried route.

A popular alternative is the salaried route, introduced by the Welsh Government in 2020 and delivered by the Open University Initial Teacher Education partnership. The two-year PGCE allows trainees to qualify while working in a school and earning a salary, with their training fees paid by the government.

Since its launch, 505 graduates have qualified through the scheme, with over 60% aged over 30. The route is open for both primary and secondary teaching, covering subjects such as science, maths, Welsh, English (including drama and media), design and technology, modern foreign languages and computing.

EARNING WHILE LEARNING

One of those to benefit is Michael Rees, who began as a science technician at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun before completing his PGCE on the salaried route. Now six years into his teaching career, he also mentors new PGCE students.

Mr Rees said: “Every day that I teach feels like a privilege. To be part of a young person’s learning journey and see their interest in science grow is incredibly

GOVERNMENT PRAISE FOR TEACHERS

Cabinet Secretary Lynne Neagle said the salaried route has transformed access to the profession.

She said: “It’s fantastic that more than 500 people have already trained through the salaried route. As it reaches its five-year milestone, this option continues to change lives and benefit schools across Wales.

“On World Teachers’ Day, I want to thank all our teachers and recognise the incredible work they do in shaping the next generation.”

Dr Sarah Stewart, Director of the Open University in Wales PGCE programme, added: “Five years ago our first salaried students joined us, and since then over 500 people have become qualified teachers. The two-year model allows people to keep earning and brings valuable life experience into the classroom.”More ways to qualify

Other options include full-time or part-time PGCEs for primary and secondary levels, and a threeyear undergraduate degree route for primary teaching. Financial support and maintenance grants may be available.

For more information about teaching routes and incentives, visit the Welsh Government website.

Bluetongue control zone declared in Monmouthshire after confirmed case

The Welsh Government has declared a Temporary Control zone (TCz) in Monmouthshire after Bluetongue Virus Serotype 3 (BTV-3) was confirmed on a local farm.

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, said the decision followed confirmation from the Chief Veterinary Officer on September 26 that the disease was circulating among livestock on the premises.

Further investigations by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and the Pirbright Institute confirmed active transmission, leading to the declaration of a Temporary Control Zone at 6:00pm on October 1.

Mr Irranca-Davies said: “I ask members to note that further action may be required to deal with this evolving and dynamic disease situation. Measures such as disease control zones are necessary to help prevent the spread of Bluetongue and to support surveillance within affected areas.”

Farmers are being urged to source animals responsibly, stay alert for symptoms, and report any suspected cases immediately to the APHA.

The Cabinet Secretary also encouraged farmers to discuss vaccination options with their vets, describing it as “the best way to protect livestock and livelihoods from the worst impacts of the disease.”

He added: “Ongoing cooperation between farmers, vets, the Welsh Government and other agencies remains crucial. We must continue to work together to protect Welsh livestock and rural livelihoods from this potentially devastating disease.”

Cows, coffee and climate change - farmers from Wales and Uganda discuss common challenges

“Climate change is a threat we live with on a daily basis,” said Jenipher Sambazi, a coffee farmer in Uganda and face of the Welsh coffee brand ‘Jenipher’s Coffi’ while meeting Teleri Fielden, who farms in the Snowdonia National Park in north Wales.

Teleri, who also works as a Policy Officer for the Farmers’ Union of Wales reflected, “As two farmers from mountainous areas, despite producing very different products, we face many common challenges - and there’s a lot that we can learn from one another. Unpredictable incomes and changing weather, including new and more severe threats of pests are shared challenges for farmers from Wales to Uganda.”

Teleri and her husband Ned are tenant farmers producing “Biodiversity Beef and Lamb” from their stock of native cattle and sheep, which graze diverse pastures and landscapes to conserve and strengthen local biodiversity. They sell directly to customers through a subscription box scheme.

Jenipher, the vice-Chair of the Mt Elgon Agroforestry Communities Co-operative Enterprise (MEACCE) explained how the 3,000 Fairtrade and

Organic farmers in her cooperative use techniques including agroforestry to grow specialty coffee, hand in hand with nature. Tree planting brings a multitude of benefits, including anchoring the soil, which, with increasingly heavy rains, gets washed away with crops, homes and, also, human lives.

Ffion Storer Jones, Jenipher’s Coffi Co-Founder who coordinated

the exchange said, “Farming faces enormous pressures globally, but by standing together and acting boldly to support farmers, we can build a fairer future. A fair price changes everythingI know this from growing up in a farming family - and that’s why Jenipher’s Coffi always carries the Fairtrade mark”.

Emma Jones, one of the facilitators of Wales’ Climate Farm Demo Project -

a pan European network of pilot demo farmers - who joined the exchange added: “It was very interesting, and devastating to learn from Jenipher about how vulnerable farmers in Uganda are to climate change. It highlighted how important it is to support farmers in the face of an increasingly hostile climate to adapt sustainable practices to ensure food security for all”.

Farming crisis deepens as four bluetongue cases confirmed

THE WELSH Government has defended its “control and contain” strategy for bluetongue, with four confirmed cases highlighting the financial turmoil already hitting livestock markets.

Huw Irranca-Davies said four premises where bluetongue has been confirmed have been placed under restrictions as investigations on the source and spread of the disease continue.

The Deputy First Minister and rural affairs secretary told the Senedd appropriate local control zones will be declared, if required, and compensation will be paid for culled animals.

The first two cases of the year were confirmed in Powys and Monmouthshire on Monday but the minister confirmed in the Senedd today (October 1) the number has now risen to four.

Samuel Kurtz, the Tory shadow rural affairs secretary, pressed his opposite number about efforts to contain the disease as well as support farmers and livestock markets.

Mr Kurtz, who is from a farming family, warned: “This is a serious concern for our farming industry,” as he called for support to help farmers with the costs of vaccination.

He questioned whether confirmation of the cases would change the Welsh Government’s approach to restrictions and how such measures will evolve in the weeks ahead.

The Conservative told the Senedd: “The impacts of the current restrictions have already been felt financially. The effect on livestock markets has been stark, with many reporting

huge drops in turnover, almost overnight.”

Mr Kurtz said cattle movements across the border have dropped from thousands to only a few hundred, threatening the viability of markets which are central to the rural economy.

Mr Irranca-Davies replied: “If you are one of the farmers in proximity of one of these incidents, you should be having a discussion with your vet immediately about vaccination.”

He pointed to the “really significant” potential costs of not vaccinating, describing the Welsh Government’s approach as being to “control and contain” the confirmed cases.

Bluetongue – which affects sheep, cattle, deer, goats and camelids such as llamas and alpacas – does not affect people nor food safety.

The Deputy First Minister said the government’s response has sought to “buy time” for farmers and for the vaccination supply chain to build up.

He told Senedd Members: “It’s not possible to protect livestock, livelihoods and the mental wellbeing of farmers by keeping this disease out without having some restrictions on animal movements but we’ll keep this, as we’ve always said, under review.

“But we recognise it has been disruptive: it could be a darn sight more disruptive economically – and in terms of health and welfare of farmers – if we’d let this rip across Wales in the way we are now seeing, regrettably,

LAST week, the Welsh Government published the evidence base underpinning the introduction of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), including the Business Case, Integrated Impact Assessment and an updated economic analysis.

across parts of England.”

Llŷr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s shadow rural affairs secretary, questioned the sufficiency of the Welsh Government’s response, suggesting ministers should have been more proactive.

Asked about the BTV-8 strain being found in Cornwall – the first confirmed UK case since 2008 – Mr Irranca-Davies said chief veterinary officers are in discussions about how to respond should the strain spread across parts of England.

He told the chamber: “This is the news that we were dreading but we were also in some ways anticipating. Our control and containment measures were ready for this and in place.”

On local control zones, he said: “We wait to see if that is necessary and if we do need to take those measures, we will. It is in our mind but a decision has not been arrived at yet.”

Mr Irranca-Davies stated ministers will reconsider animal movement restrictions in the mid-winter based on new and emerging evidence.

He said: “There are some people… who are saying ‘well, this is mild, let this disease rip’. The experience in other parts of Europe but also the speed it’s now moving around England suggests this may not be the case and we really have to get ahead of this with vaccinations.”

The former MP stressed: “The way we keep this disease locked out – even with these four incidents – is to double down on the need that everybody needs to play by the same rules to protect every farmer in Wales.”

These documents examine the potential economic, environmental and social outcomes of the Scheme. Through the work of the Ministerial Roundtable, some of the findings have helped shape the final details and indicative payment rates of the Scheme.

According to the documents, across 15,555 full-time and part-time farms in Wales, the Universal Actions could result, in a worstcase scenario, in a 5% reduction in Grazing Livestock Units, a loss of 1,163 Standard Labour Requirements (SLRs) and a £76.3 million drop in Farm Business Income-equivalent to around £4,900 per farm.

Initially, it appears that the possible economic impacts on grazing livestock units, labour requirements, and farm business income have roughly halved compared to analyses of earlier versions of the SFS. While this reflects the improvements made to the Scheme following engagement and lobbying efforts, the assessments still indicate a concerning and negative impact on family farms across Wales.

The SFS places greater demands on farming businessesenvironmentally and

socially - yet we are still expected to operate within a twelve-year-old budget settlement that represents a significant real-terms cut in funding. Welsh farmers should not be disadvantaged for transitioning to a new support system that demands more from them. For this reason, the Farmers’ Union of Wales are calling on the next Welsh Government to increase the baselevel funding of £238 million for the Universal Layer of the SFS by an amount that fully mitigates the estimated economic impacts and supports the Scheme’s ambitions. Based on the Government’s own assessments, this would mean an increase of at least £76 million.

Despite our concerns, we welcome the publication of these assessments and the transparency shown by the Welsh Government. This approach stands in contrast to the scattered and speculative handling of similar reforms in England. While the revised analysis demonstrates progress, the potential impacts remain worrying for individual farm businesses and the wider agricultural supply chain. It is vital that we maintain the critical mass of livestock and avoid further reductions at all costs.

The Farmers’ Union of Wales will continue to work closely with both the current and future Welsh Government to refine the Sustainable Farming Scheme, ensuring that the additional actions expected of Welsh farmers are properly valued and fairly rewarded.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

TCHERY UK marks debut month as TIGGO range powers first September registrations

CHERY UK has confirmed its first official month of new vehicle registrations, with 1,287 units recorded in September and a market share of 0.41%*, according to today’s data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The milestone marks the official start of CHERY’s journey in the UK, as the global automotive group introduced its CHERY TIGGO range to one of the world’s most competitive car markets.

The initial line-up features the CHERY TIGGO 7 and CHERY TIGGO 8, both offering a strong balance of design, technology and value for British families and SUV buyers. The portfolio will soon broaden as the brand recently confirmed the CHERY TIGGO 4 and the flagship CHERY TIGGO 9 will also be coming to the UK market; creating a complete range that caters for diverse customer needs.

CHERY’s arrival in the UK further builds on the company’s momentum worldwide. Across its portfolio of brands in the UK – now including CHERY plus the fastgrowing OMODA&JAECOO –

the group cumulatively recorded 12,099 new car registrations in September, marking a significant step in Chery International’s expansion in this market. With its reputation for advanced technology, distinctive design and exceptional value, CHERY’s long-term strategy and investment in the British automotive landscape are already clear.

Farrell Hsu, CHERY UK Country Director, said: “September represents an important first step for CHERY in the United Kingdom. To see our first month of official registrations deliver a strong foundation confirms what we already believed – that the CHERY TIGGO range resonates with UK drivers, and our initial dealer network is delivering a strong impact.

“With the CHERY TIGGO 7 and CHERY TIGGO 8 now completing their first month on sale, and more models set to join the line-up soon, we’re building a line-up that combines practicality, style, and value –all underpinned by a customer experience focused on long-term

confidence. We’re excited to see how the momentum continues in the coming months.”

Supported by an expanding dealer network, comprehensive aftersales care and longterm warranties – including a 7-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty (whichever comes first) and an 8-year/100,000mile warranty on the battery (where applicable) – CHERY is committed to building trust with British customers and establishing a strong, long-term presence in the UK market.

The CHERY TIGGO 7 and CHERY TIGGO 8 are available to buy now, with prices starting from £24,995 OTR** and £28,545 OTR** respectively. Alongside the comprehensive warranty support, every CHERY UK vehicle also includes RAC roadside assistance as standard for the first 3 years, subject to annual servicing.

CHERY entered the UK market earlier this summer, supported by an initial network of 25 dealers and ongoing expansion.

1.2

BYD UK celebrates most successful sales month ever with 880% growth vs 2024

BYD, the world’s largest maker of new energy vehicles, has smashed yet another sales record in the UK. The brand sold over 11,271 cars in September, representing a substantial rise of 880% compared to the same month last year and saw it also overtake legacy brands such as Renault and SEAT. In another mark of its success, the UK also became the company’s largest international market outside of China for the first time.

This brings BYD UK’s sales for the third quarter to over 16,000, compared to 10,000 in the second quarter of this year, with total 2025 sales to just over 35,000. Having achieved 2% new car market share in only two years, the company’s total market share in September grew even stronger to 3.6% and now sits at 2.2% year-to-date.

The SEAL U DM-i, which features BYD’s innovative dual-mode hybrid technology, remains the company’s best-selling model with 7,524 finding homes between July and September, followed by the all-electric SEALION 7 with 2,599 cars sold. The SEAL U DM-i continues to be the UK’s bestselling plug-in hybrid in 2025.

Bono Ge, Country Manager, BYD UK commented: “I am so proud of our team and retailer partners; this is 100% their result and is testament to their continued hard work and determination in driving BYD forwards and spreading the word about our brand up and down the country.

“To see us achieve our largest ever sales month in the UK is clearly fantastic, but to become the largest overseas market for BYD too, makes me immensely proud. With even more new plug-in hybrid and electric cars to be launched in the months ahead and having just celebrated our 100th retailer opening, the future for us in this country looks hugely exciting.”

Additionally, BYD recently announced yet another significant milestone in the UK with the opening of a dedicated Battery Service Centre in Milton Keynes. The state-of-the-art facility will initially focus on electric bus batteries; with over 2,450 BYD buses already in operation nationwide, including 84% of the electric buses in service in London, this new centre will enhance aftersales services and support our customers across the country.

New Dacia Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Jogger: even more of the essentials at an affordable price

DACIA is announcing extensive upgrades to Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger, offering even greater value for money with a priceto-features ratio that is still unique to the market.

Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger play a key role in the enduring success of Dacia. Sandero is Europe’s best-selling retail car, a position it has held since 2017. In 2024, Sandero was even Europe’s best-selling car across all channels, and the first Dacia to sell more than 300,000 units in a single year (309,392 units, an increase of 14.5% on 2023, including Sandero Stepway which accounts for around two-thirds of the total).

A vehicle unique in Europe, Jogger is continuing to gain momentum. In 2024, it was the second best-selling vehicle in the European C-segment excluding SUVs, with a total of 96,440 units, an increase of 2.4% on 2023.

ExTERIOR DESIGN: THE START OF A NEW CHAPTER

Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger are iconic Dacia models, ‘guardians’ of a design style that goes straight to the essentials. Today, they are the first models to adopt a new LED light signature featuring an inverted ‘T’ with new headlights, underlining the car’s robust stance and its identity as a Dacia. The light signature is connected to

the grille – also new – by a fine line of pixel-like white dots, standing out clearly against the black of the grille. The entire front end appears to be made from a single piece: simple, modern but still essential.

At the rear, the new design of the LED ‘pixel’ lights underlines the personality of Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger. On Jogger, the lights are an extension of the tailgate window, for a simple look. As the lights are vertical in shape, they follow the contours of the wings, visually reinforcing the car’s sturdy design and stance.

The robust design of Sandero Stepway is underlined by a new matt black strip running between the rear lights and the redesigned bumper.

Sandero Stepway and Jogger reassert their outdoor qualities with new protections on the wheel arches, lower body and fog light surrounds in Starkle®. Invented by Dacia engineers and used for the first time on the latest Duster, Starkle® contains 20% recycled plastic and is fully recyclable. Its composition gives the material a speckled look. Used untreated and unpainted, Starkle® has a smaller carbon footprint in production and is less vulnerable to everyday scratches.

Depending on trim level, Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger gain new wheel designs and a shark fin antenna as standard from the expression trim.

A new metallic body colour, Amber

makes its appearance on Sandero and Sandero Stepway, while Sandstone is now available on Sandero and Jogger.

AN INTERIOR DESIGN FOR EVERYDAY LIVING

In a nod to the link between exterior and interior design, the new dashboard air vents feature an inverted ‘T’ design, matching the new light signature.

Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger feature new, more durable fabrics on the seats, dashboard and doors, giving the interior a welcoming look. With the essential and expression trim levels, the seats are upholstered in a new cloth fabric: black on Jogger and Sandero, and light blue on Sandero Stepway. The Journey trim includes new blue denim upholstery for a warm, contemporary look, while the Extreme trim keeps its emblematic washable MicroCloud TEP upholstery in green and black, along with rubber floor mats at the front, rear and in the boot.

The optimised ergonomics of the new steering wheel make it particularly enjoyable to use. On the hybrid 155 powertrain, driving comfort is further enhanced by the new E-Shifter –intuitive and elegant.

Delivering seamless, advanced connectivity, Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger are now available with a new multimedia system featuring a 10-inch central screen and connected

navigation, as well as a wireless smartphone charger. For a complete, optimal experience, the 7-inch digital drive display gains a new interface design.

Like all Dacia models, the latest Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger are equipped with YouClip®, a simple, ingenious system for securing a wide range of dedicated accessories at key points around the passenger compartment in a practical and robust way.

Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger feature three YouClip® anchor points: one on the dashboard, one at the back of the central console, and another inside the tailgate. Jogger adds another anchor point on one side of the boot.

These anchor points can be used for a tablet holder, storage pouch, phone holder, coat hanger, etc. Two new YouClip®-compatible accessories are also now available in the Dacia network: a glasses case and a shopping bag.

NEW COMFORT AND SAFETY FEATURES

To charge your mobile phone or keep it charged during wireless connection to Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™, a wireless smartphone charger is available for the first time on the central console of Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger. Standard on Jogger Extreme, it is available as an option on the other models with Extreme and Journey trims.

Customers looking for even greater driving comfort and safety will now benefit from three new features:

Automatic headlights. Automatic headlights optimise night vision without dazzling other road users. The system maximises the use of high beam and automatically switches to low beam when another vehicle appears.

Multi-view camera. Making easy work of low-speed manoeuvres such as parking, the central screen shows an aerial view of the vehicle and any obstacles.

Power folding door mirrors. This feature is particularly useful for protecting door mirrors from damage when parking in narrow streets.

New Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger all gain new driving aids meeting the latest European safety standards: automatic emergency braking (city/ highway with vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist and motorbike detection) and driver attention alert.

Making life easier for customers, Dacia has added an ingenious ‘My Safety’ button, providing easy access to the driver’s preferred ADAS configuration.

Yellow,

Questions on Goodwick campervan trial scheme to be heard

A RECENTLY approved Pembrokeshire council trial scheme for an overnight motorhome and campervan parking site close to Fishguard’s ferry is to come under the spotlight at full council next week.

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 Cabinet-backed 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 phone-in 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 not proceed with the scheme but instead trial an overnight stopover facility for motorhomes at Goodwick Moor

car park, linked to the ferry port.

A formal planning application for a conditional change of use of the Goodwick Moor Car Park scheme for a two-year trial period was later submitted by the council, and backed by the planning committee on July 29.

Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council objected to the application, raising concerns of noise nuisance to residents and other users, a lack of provision of facilities for overnight motorhome/campervans, saying

the proposal would have an adverse impact on existing businesses and residents, a loss of community amenity, a loss of evening car parking facility for existing community groups, and poor road surfacing.

In a question to be heard at the October 9 meeting of Pembrokeshire County council, Cllr Di Clements will ask: “On July 29 the Planning Committee approved the change of use of Goodwick Moor Car park to allow for overnight motor home and camper van stays.

“No facilities will be provided, and no licences

will be required. Does the appropriate Cabinet Member believe it is fair that private site owners require a site licence stating maximum numbers allowed, a fire safety space requirement between units, the provision of water, litter and foul water/chemical toilet disposal? All costs the private site owner has to bear.

“However, PCC will not have the burden of providing those facilities and none of the associated costs.”

The question will be answered by the appropriate Cabinet member.

More Battery Box schemes approved in Pembrokeshire

TWO FURTHER applications for ‘battery box’ units to provide electricity storage during off-peak times have been approved by Pembrokeshire planners.

In two separate recently approved applications, AMP Clean Energy sought permission for micro energy storage projects on land between King Street and Meyrick Street, Pembroke Dock and land in between Castle Quarry and Haven Court, Pembroke.

AMP Clean Energy was also recently granted permission for micro energy storage projects at on a verge at the Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock, and land to the south of Withybush Road, Withybush Industrial Estate, Haverfordwest. However, a scheme for a ‘battery box’ project on a verge near Monkton Swifts Football

Club, Monkton, Pembroke was recently refused on the grounds it was “considered to be of poor design and would not appear as a subservient and seamless in relation to its siting within the area of Monkton”.

The applications are part of a raft of similar schemes being submitted by AMP in the county including St Daniel’s Hill and St Daniel’s Drive, Pembroke, land between Steynton Road and Sheffield Drive and Castle Terrace and Pill Road, Milford Haven, and on a verge at Fishguard Leisure Centre Car Park.

A supporting statement accompanying each application says: “AMP Clean Energy is developing Battery Boxes across the UK to provide a low carbon,

flexible and de-centralised store of electricity that benefits local communities, businesses, and homes.”

It says the battery boxes import electricity from the local electricity network when demand for electricity is low or when there are high levels of renewable energy available, exporting it back during periods of high demand to help address grid reliability issues prompted by an increase of intermittent (wind and

solar) generation.

AMP Clean Energy says it is developing up to 1,250-plus Battery Boxes in the UK over the next three years and, to date, has received planning consent for more than 80 such schemes. It says each box, which takes up roughly two car parking spaces, stores 800kWh of electricity, giving the potential to power 200 homes for four hours where there is a supply disruption.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Tories propose tax cuts as Labour derides ‘unfunded’ £669m cost

THE CONSERVATIVES have called for tax cuts to boost the Welsh economy but Labour ministers warned the “unfunded” plan would blow a £669m hole in the budget.

Samuel Kurtz, the Tory shadow economy secretary, called for a 1p cut to the basic rate of income tax and the scrapping of business rates for small businesses.

He said: “Families here are taking home smaller pay packets than their counterparts in England or Scotland. Businesses are struggling under the heaviest business rates in Britain.

“Young people see fewer opportunities to build a career and too often feel forced to leave the communities where they grew up.”

Mr Kurtz warned the Welsh and UK economies are “stuck in the mud”, with chancellor Rachel Reeves “poised to raid pension pots” in the budget on November 26.

The ex-journalist said cutting the basic rate of income tax by 1p to 19% in Wales would give 1.7 million people a tax break and leave the average working family £450 a year better off.

Mr Kurtz said scrapping rates for small firms, which he described as the “backbone of our economy”, would help 245,000 businesses employing more than 500,000 people.

But Plaid Cymru’s Luke Fletcher accused the Conservatives of simply wanting to “tinker” with the tax system, warning an “ownership gap” is the central problem. He told the Senedd: “The reality is that there are too few Welsh businesses, assets and institutions that are meaningfully Welsh owned.

“That limits investment, it slows business growth and it reduces the quality and availability of jobs. It also means that innovation struggles to take hold and far too much profit leaves our communities. We need to change that.”

His colleague Cefin Campbell was “aghast at the hypocrisy”, saying the Tories’ reputation as the “guardians of

the economy” was trashed by Liz Truss tanking the economy.

Mike Hedges, a Labour backbencher, described the Tory strategy as seeking to cut the Welsh Government’s income while increasing spending.

ut he accepted the Welsh economy has problems – many of them structural –having performed poorly versus the rest of Britain for many years.

Mr Hedges pointed to a shortage of employment in higher-paid sectors, with Wales weak in areas such as ICT, real estate and professional services.

He told Senedd Members: “We need to have a successful economy. We need to know how we’re going to do it and quite frankly, what the Conservatives said will not work”.

Rebecca Evans said cutting the basic rate of income tax by 1p would cost £299m – nearly 8% of all Welsh income tax revenue. She added that scrapping business rates for small firms would cost up to £370m, bringing the total to £669m.

Wales’ economy secretary told the Senedd: “All of this without even beginning to tell us how they would pay for it, and the level of cuts that they would have to implement would be huge.

Economy, energy, and planning secretary Rebecca Evans

“They would have to cut the entire transport revenue budget.”

She claimed Wales is outperforming the UK average on employment.

Ms Evans pointed to December’s planned Wales investment summit in Newport but rejected Conservative calls to release a list of companies that have registered an interest.

She said: “We have had huge, huge interest from across the globe, and particularly in the sectors that we’re particularly keen to grow: compound semiconductors, tech and digital, clean energy, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and defence.”

Plaid Cymru MS Luke Fletcher

Labour MS Mike Hedges

Economy, energy, and planning secretary Rebecca Evans

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

ThUrgent questions over decision to close hospice

URGENT questions following the announcement St Davids’ Shalom House respite care facility is to close are told be heard at full council.

Pembrokeshire’s only hospice, Shalom House Hospice, based in Nun Street, has announced that it will close its doors at the end of October.

The hospice, set up to provide palliative support to patients and their relatives, opened its doors to patients in 2007 after a decade of fund raising.

It provided holistic, accessible and personalised care to people with life-limiting conditions, including cancer, and other life limiting illnesses, such as MND, Parkinson’s and COPD.

The five-bedroom bungalow on Nun Street was gifted to the charity by romantic novelist

Elizabeth de Guise so that the palliative care unit could be established.

The charity changed its services from overnight to day care due to financial constraints and so that it could ‘support as many patients as possible in a flexible and beneficial way’.

The charity said that Shalom House had been ‘under severe financial pressure for a long time’.

The charity launched a Save Shalom House campaign in spring 2024, saying it needed to raise equivalent to around £24,000 per month to keep open.

In a serious of questions to be heard at the October 9 meeting

of Pembrokeshire County council, Cllr Joshua Beynon will ask: “In light of the very recent announcement that Shalom House Hospice in St Davids will close at the end of October 2025, I wish to raise an urgent question.

“Shalom House has provided vital palliative and end-of-life care for many years, serving residents across Pembrokeshire with compassion and dedication. Its closure will have an immediate impact on some of the most vulnerable people in our county, as well as on their families, staff, and volunteers.

“Given the seriousness and imminence of this situation, can the Leader (or relevant Cabinet Member) set out: What urgent discussions the council has had, or intends to have, with Hywel Dda

University Health Board and Welsh Government to ensure continuity of palliative and endof-life care for Pembrokeshire residents?

“What role the council’s own social services will play in supporting patients and families during this transition, alongside what wider support can be offered to affected staff and volunteers?

“3Whether the council will make formal representations to Welsh Government about the urgent need for sustainable funding for hospice and community-based palliative care across Pembrokeshire and Wales?”

Cllr Beynon’s questions will be answered by Leader Cllr Jon Harvey or the appropriate Cabinet member.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

‘It’s bloody inhumane’: Damning account of corridor care at the Grange

A CANCER patient was forced to spend a “bloody inhumane” night in a chair at the Grange hospital, only getting a bed after collapsing on the floor, the Senedd has heard.

Plaid Cymru’s Peredur Owen Griffiths raised the pensioner’s frank account of so-called corridor care during health questions in the Senedd on October 1.

Warning corridor care has been normalised, Mr Owen Griffiths said his constituent has been back and forth to the Grange hospital in Cwmbran due to medical complications.

Quoting the pensioner’s damning account, Mr Owen Griffiths said: “‘I’m back in the Grange, feeling crap after one night on a chair. The staff are fantastic but the system definitely isn’t.

“‘The only reason I had a bed at last was because I staggered to the loo and collapsed on the floor. I had to get three nurses to pick me up and plonk me in a chair.

“‘I think they realised that I should get a bed. Some people are spending two nights in a chair. It’s bloody inhumane. Thank you, Welsh Government.’”

The South Wales East representative highlighted a petition to end corridor care for the sake of patients and staff who never signed up to provide care in such circumstances.

Health secretary Jeremy Miles replied: “I am as concerned… and it’s upsetting to hear that. I’m very sorry for the experience your constituent has had, which clearly is not acceptable.”

Asghar, the Tory

Cautioning that corridor care is a complex question, he said: “I wouldn’t accept the idea of normalisation. I certainly don’t think it is normal and it shouldn’t be normal but there is far too much of it happening in hospitals right across the UK.”

Mr Miles described corridor care as a symptom of a hospital’s inability to manage patient flow but he pointed to signs of improvement with handover

Member for South Wales East, warned the Grange – which cost about £350m and opened in 2020 – has been plagued by problems.

With the hospital struggling to cope with demands, she raised her constituents’ calls to reopen the A&E department at the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport.

Ms Asghar surveyed her constituents, with an “overwhelming” majority of respondents in favour of reopening the A&E unit at the Royal

Gwent.

Mr Miles said by making the Grange the main hospital for emergencies other local hospitals can focus on planned operations and appointments, helping to clear waiting lists.

He told the Senedd: “The health board is implementing a model that people across the world are trying to implement, which is to separate emergency from elective care.

“We know from evidence everywhere that’s the best way of improving services overall.”

Laura Anne Jones, who defected from the Conservatives to Reform UK over the summer, called for a review of the “massive reorganisation” that has seen services centralised.

She asked whether the Welsh Government regretted “rushing” into the opening of the “not-fit-forpurpose” Grange, claiming it caused unnecessary suffering for patients.

Ms Jones described the current A&E as a small room with “appalling” waiting lists as she called for an update on plans to extend and reconfigure the hospital.

Mr Miles responded: “What I do regret is that if the member’s party was in government, we wouldn’t have a discussion about free access to health care of any sort.

“We’d all be paying privately for insurance premiums because her party’s been absolutely clear: they wouldn’t have an NHS funded from general taxation.”

Welsh Ambulance Service to host extraordinary Board meeting

THE Welsh Ambulance Service is preparing to host an extraordinary Trust Board meeting. The public can join on Microsoft Teams to hear Board members approve further changes to the way 999 calls are categorised, which are due to go live in December.

New Orange, Yellow and Green categories, which build upon the Purple and Red categories already introduced in July for the most lifethreatening calls, have been designed to improve care for patients and ensure they get the right response for their need.

The changes are in response to new performance measures by Welsh Government which represent a focus on quality of care, rather than how many minutes it takes for an ambulance to arrive.

Colin Dennis, Chair of the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “The nature

of how patients present to 999 has changed and it’s important to reflect this in the way we respond, first and foremost to increase ambulance availability for those who truly need it but also to ensure that patients who can be cared for closer to home get that opportunity.

“The ambulance service of today provides much more sophisticated care, so shifting the focus to how many people survive a life-ordeath emergency because of our interventions, rather than how many minutes it takes us to get there, is an important step to reflect that.

“Colleagues across the organisation are working flat out to ensure we’re ready for ‘go live’ in December, and we’ll be hearing all about those preparations in the Board meeting.

“Our Board meetings play a vital role in ensuring transparency and openness in everything we do, and we would invite anyone with an interest in the upcoming changes to join us virtually to find out more.”

delays at the Grange.

Natasha

Senedd

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Welsh Tory leader: Plaid ‘danger to economic security’ and Reform ‘threat to national security’

WELSH Conservative Leader Darren Millar MS has branded Plaid Cymru “a danger to economic security” and Reform UK “a danger to national security” during a speech at the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester on Sunday (Oct 5).

Mr Millar, who leads the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, told delegates that next May’s election would offer voters a “clear choice” between “Labour failure, Plaid extremism, Reform chaos and a Conservative plan to fix Wales.”

CRITICISM OF OTHER

PARTIES

Addressing the main conference stage, Mr Millar accused Plaid Cymru of promoting “dangerous nationalism”, claiming the party wanted to “tear Wales from the United Kingdom” and that independence would “cost the average Welsh working family thousands each year.”

He also attacked Reform UK, referring to the party’s former MEP Nathan Gill – who has admitted taking bribes for proRussian statements – and said

the party’s founder Nigel Farage had “cosied up to the Russians.”

“Reform is a clear and present danger to our national security,” he said

The Welsh Conservative leader went on to describe the Liberal Democrats as “irrelevant”, while insisting that “Labour is failing Wales” and that only the Conservatives had “a credible plan to fix Wales.”

Pembrokeshire to hear

CONSERVATIVE PROPOSALS

Outlining his party’s pledges, Mr Millar said the Conservatives would cut Welsh income tax, scrap business rates for small firms, “eliminate wasteful spending”, improve NHS performance, and “restore discipline” in schools.

“We’ll put Wales and the people of Wales first,” he said. “If you want hope, if you want change, if you want a stronger

economy and stronger borders, vote Welsh Conservative to fix Wales.”

RESPONSE FROM OPPOSITION PARTIES

Plaid Cymru dismissed the attack as “desperate political rhetoric” from a party “running out of ideas.” A spokesperson said: “Plaid Cymru is focused on building a fairer, more prosperous Wales for everyone. What’s truly dangerous is the damage Westminster policies have done to our economy and public services.

A Reform UK representative told The Herald: “The Conservatives are panicking because voters have had enough of broken promises. Reform stands for strong borders, lower taxes and putting Britain first — without the corruption that has plagued the old parties.”

Welsh Labour declined to comment on Mr Millar’s remarks but has previously accused the Conservatives of “talking Wales down” and “failing to deliver for working people.”

call to stop net-zero ‘backtracking’

A PETITION calling on Pembrokeshire County Council to reaffirm its own commitment to becoming a net-zero council in just five years is to be discussed by councillors next week.

The petition follows councillors agreeing, in July, to decision to set up a group to review its own decision to declare a climate emergency some six years ago.

In May 2019, the council declared a climate emergency following a notice of motion by Cllr Joshua Beynon calling on the authority to back the global consensus that climate change

poses a risk to the well-being of future generations.

He had urged county councillors to back a motion to take “bold, decisive action” to fight “truly, catastrophic” climate change, with the council to committing to becoming a zerocarbon local authority by 2030.

The e-petition, by Lynda Duffill of West Wales Climate Coalition, on the council’s own website, reads: “We call upon Pembrokeshire County Council to a) reaffirm their Declaration of a Climate Emergency, and b) retain their ambition to deliver Net Zero Council operations by 2030

via their Action Plan towards Becoming a Net Zero-carbon Local Authority. This would align the council with Welsh Government policy, and the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act.

“We understand that financial constraints exist for the county council and are concerned that a review of the council’s zero carbon plan, for its own operations, will result in an erosion of ambition to make a difference to its own carbon footprint and consequently Pembrokeshire’s citizens.

“We are concerned that a plan designed to address what is still a climate emergency will be eroded if the ambition to reach Net Zero Council Operations by 2030 is not upheld. We are also concerned that any changes to the plan will prove contrary to the Well-being of Future Generations Act.”

The petition, started on September 1 and running through to November 7, gained 725 signatures, meaning it will now be brought to full council, meeting on October 9.

If the petition gets 500

signatures, the creator will have an opportunity to debate it at a future full council meeting.

Any petition of between 100 and 499 signatures triggers a debate at one of the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees.

West Wales Climate Coalition’s Lynda Duffill said: “We’ve been talking with many local people recently who are appalled that Pembs are even thinking of backtracking on this.”

One of the group, Sian Vaughan, a retired head teacher who lives in Fishguard said: “Climate change is a massive threat to every one of us. We can see the effects around us, we’re getting hotter summers, periods of drought and then sudden heavier rainfall, stronger storms and more flooding. What kind of a world are we leaving to our children?”

Cllr Beynon, recently said that removing a commitment to deliver Net Zero Council operations by 2030 could harm the economic future of the area, with renewable energy investment coming into the county.

Starmer admits Brexit was a mistake – so who is to blame, and what has Britain lost?

AFTER nearly a decade of division, economic drift and diplomatic damage, Britain’s Prime Minister has finally said what most of the country now believes – that Brexit was a mistake.

It doesn’t matter which side of politics you’re on – everyone agrees that the whole thing has been a disaster. The only point still in dispute is whose fault it is.

At the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, Sir Keir Starmer accused “self-appointed representatives of the people” of having “sold the lie of Brexit and walked away.” His words marked the first time a serving Prime Minister has openly acknowledged that leaving the European Union was not the patriotic liberation it was promised to be, but a national misstep.

The comment sent shockwaves through Westminster, reigniting one of the most bitter debates in modern British politics. Yet for millions of voters, the sense of regret has been building for years.

A GAMBLE FOR PARTY UNITY

The story begins with David Cameron, who called the 2016 referendum not because the country demanded it, but because his own party did. Under pressure from Eurosceptic MPs and Nigel Farage’s insurgent UKIP, Cameron gambled Britain’s future on what he thought would be an easy victory.

When the country voted narrowly to leave, he resigned the next morning, leaving no plan, no leadership and no roadmap for what came next. It was, in hindsight, the original sin of the Brexit era – a national plebiscite called for internal party management, with consequences that would last for generations.

SOLD A DREAM THAT COULD NEVER BE DELIVERED

Millions of people voted Leave in good faith, driven by real hopes of control, fairness and national pride. Those hopes were genuine – even if the promises were not.

The Vote Leave campaign, fronted by Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, sold a dream that could never be delivered. Britain, they claimed, would “take back control,” save £350 million a week for the NHS, and strike better trade deals across the globe. None of it proved true.

Instead, Johnson’s government pursued the hardest possible form of Brexit, severing ties with the single market and customs union. The slogan “Get Brexit Done” became a substitute for economic strategy. What followed was customs red tape, labour shortages and collapsing export volumes – not liberation but isolation.

Nigel Farage, the self-styled champion of the people, helped make Brexit inevitable but bore none of the responsibility for its execution. Having declared victory, he promptly walked away, leaving others to manage the fallout he had helped create.

THE MISSING OPPOSITION

Labour’s leadership at the time also bears blame. Jeremy Corbyn’s halfhearted Remain campaign failed to offer voters a clear alternative vision of Britain inside Europe. His refusal to take a strong stand on a second referendum allowed Leave rhetoric to dominate in former Labour heartlands, paving the way for Johnson’s landslide in 2019.

YEARS OF DAMAGE

Nine years later, the impact is undeniable.

• Economically, UK trade with the EU is down around 15 per cent compared with pre-Brexit trends. The OBR estimates the economy is 4 per cent smaller than it would have been inside the single market.

• Politically, Britain’s standing in Europe has diminished. Diplomats describe a country once seen as a bridge between the US and Europe now reduced to a spectator.

• Socially, Brexit has deepened divides between generations, regions and nations – fuelling support for independence movements in Scotland and rekindling border tensions in Northern Ireland.

• Culturally, the end of free movement has shrunk opportunities for young people, artists and small businesses that once thrived on easy access to Europe.

What was promised as the restoration of sovereignty has often felt like the surrender of influence.A reckoning at last

Starmer’s admission does not mean a push to rejoin the EU – at least not yet. The Prime Minister insists that his goal is to “make Brexit work,” not to reopen old wounds. But in acknowledging that Britain was misled, he has broken a political taboo that long constrained debate.

In doing so, he reflects public opinion. Polls show around 60 per cent of Britons now believe leaving the EU was a mistake. Only a third still defend it. The great national silence around Brexit is finally cracking.

Who bears the blame?

If Brexit – or at least the version of it we have lived through – was a

national act of self-harm, it was one committed with many hands on the knife. Responsibility is spread across parties, personalities and decades of political cowardice.

David Cameron lit the fuse. Terrified of losing his grip on a divided Conservative Party, he promised a referendum he thought he couldn’t lose. When he did, he walked away the next morning — no plan, no roadmap, no leadership.

Boris Johnson turned that gamble into a crusade. He gave Brexit its swagger and its slogans — “Take Back Control,” “Get Brexit Done” — but not the substance to make them real. When the slogans ran out, the hard border, the trade friction and the labour shortages remained.

Nigel Farage weaponised frustration. For years he railed against Brussels, the establishment and immigration — giving voice to grievances that were real, but offering no workable plan to fix them. When the chaos began, he claimed victory and left the stage.

Jeremy Corbyn, leading Labour at the time, could have offered clarity. Instead, his half-hearted Remain campaign and later fence-sitting over a second referendum left voters uncertain what Labour stood for. The result was a landslide for Johnson and a mandate for the hardest form of Brexit imaginable. Behind them all stood sections of the British press, which for years turned the EU into a cartoon villain — a convenient scapegoat for problems made in Westminster. The drip of distortion became the tide that carried the country out.

Claims in The Sun that the Queen backed Brexit were later criticised by the regulator as being false

And finally, there is the electorate itself — millions who voted in good faith, believing they were taking back control. They were promised sovereignty and prosperity; they got neither. They were sold hope — and left with red tape.

Farage’s promise to “finish the job” of leaving the EU entirely has revived the rhetoric many thought buried. His power lies not in policy but in disruption – in turning anger into momentum and disillusionment into votes.

For all their differences, there is one point on which Keir Starmer and Nigel Farage now agree – that Brexit was not done well. The Remainer who wanted to stay and the campaigner who made leaving his life’s mission have arrived, from opposite ends of the spectrum, at the same conclusion: Britain got Brexit wrong.

The only question now is who the country will trust to put it right – the man who says he can fix it, or the one who still vows to finish it.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

UK are saying the Conservatives are finished. I described them as irrelevant.

Not content with taking us out of the EU, Kemi Badenoch has now said a Conservative government would take the UK out of the ECHR (European Convention on Human Rights) and will create a version of Trump’s ICE, to remove 150,000 people from the UK, each year.

Meanwhile, the UK asylum system is in crisisand people fleeing war and persecution are paying the price.

For years, the Conservatives trashed the system, letting backlogs spiral out of control and leaving thousands of vulnerable people stuck in expensive hotels.

Now, rather than fixing the mess, Labour has doubled down with counterproductive measures like the immediate suspension of family reunion pathways and reducing the move-on period for new refugees.

This is dividing communities, costing billions, and undermining the UK’s proud history of offering sanctuary to those in need.

As liberals, we believe in compassion, fairness and efficiency. That means ending the chaos, restoring dignity, and building an asylum system that works for everyone.

At the recent Liberal Democrat Party Conference, members passed a new policy to do this by:

Ending the use of asylum hotels by clearing the backlog, speeding up application decisions, and allowing people with valid claims to work, integrate and contribute while swiftly returning those who do not have a right to remain.

Lifting the ban on employment for asylum seekers who have waited

mor than three months for a decision.

Restoring family reunion pathways so refugees can rebuild their lives with their loved ones.

Tackling dangerous crossings at their source by stepping up cross-border cooperation and giving the UK a leadership role in Europol to take on the criminal gangs.

Reaffirming the UK’s commitment to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and rejecting any attempt to undermine the rights and protections it guarantees.

Protests over asylum hotels have already put police forces under ‘chronic pressure’. Refugees are left in limbo, unable to work and forced into poverty. Families are kept apart. And meanwhile, the toxic rhetoric of Reform and the Conservatives is dragging politics further away from compassion and common sense.

The UK has a proud tradition of standing up for those fleeing oppressionLiberal Democrats will make sure we live up to it.

As the Conservatives, Labour and Reform fight amongst themselves, the Liberal Democrats have seized on the Tory splits saying, “former One Nation Conservatives who have been abandoned by their party’s lurch to the extremes: you have a home with us.”

Liberal Democrat leader, Sir Ed Davey said that in leaving the ECHR, “Kemi Badenoch has chosen to back Nigel Farage and join Vladimir Putin.”

Sir Ed Davey added, “This will do nothing to stop the boats or fix our broken immigration system –problems caused by the last Conservative Government that Badenoch still hasn’t apologised for.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Will the Right Unite?

THE CONSERVATIVE party in the UK is undoubtedly going through an identity crisis. I’m not the biggest fan of party Conferences because these days they are money generating exercises and performative in nature as opposed to serious policy making exercises. After a month of listening and reading commentary on events from the respective party gatherings, the noise merges into one big smudge.

In the case of the Tories, the big announcements on leaving the European Convention on Human Rights; the £47bn cuts to public expenditure based on an axe to welfare spending; and a forced removal of forces to detain and extract 150,000 illegal immigrants could all have been delivered from the Reform Conference.

The Tories who find themselves third in the polls across the UK, and fourth in Wales, are in the type of strategic sinkhole that the party has never faced in its long and illustrious history. The old duopoly which enabled the Tories to use Labour as a polarising target evaporated once it was overtaken by Reform. This major shift has been aided by the deliberate strategic decision of Labour to frame UK politics as a fight between them and Reform – which Labour hope will unite the progressive side behind them whilst indirectly undermining the Conservatives. So far, the latter is working whilst the jury is out on the former.

The Tories are finding out

that the strategic choices are more difficult the lower down the political food chain you go. It finds itself outflanked losing politicians, activists and supporters in droves to a challenger party. Leader Kemi Badenoch has decided to move the Tories more to the right to stop the haemorrhage but in doing so will surely alienate those who have traditionally supported the Conservatives who don’t subscribe to radical right ideology. Witness the Conference contribution of Michael Heseltine who accused the party’s leadership of “encouraging the worst sort of prejudice.” The Lib Dems will surely try and covert the cohort of voters that the likes of Heseltine would have traditionally represented.

Badenoch’s position is not aided by the positioning of her rival for the Leadership, Robert Jenrick, who seems to be acting with impunity forcing his Leader to dance to his increasingly extreme tune. The common strategy between both seems to be to mimic Reform in the hope of being able to pick up the pieces if the insurgency led by Mr Farage implodes. The obvious question which arises then is what happens if there isn’t a Reform blow out before the next General Election?

One current major division line between Badenoch and Jenrick falls on the question of working with Reform. Badenoch has

so far ruled it out whilst Jenrick hasn’t. Returning to Michael Heseltine he also reportedly said that the Tories must make it clear that they would never “have any part in the populist extremism of Nigel Farage.” Others in the party are far more open to the idea based on their shared values and a realisation that a divided right would find it difficult to form a post 2029 Government.

Critically, a poll this week of Tory members by Yougov for Sky News indicates that two thirds would like some sort of pact going forward. For the right in general, politics is about power as opposed to the tribal loyalties and blind obsession with ideological purity on the left. It is not unsurprising therefore to see active Conservatives looking at the next General Election through the prism of the current polls and thinking that there is only one plausible route to some sort of victory.

The Senedd election results will probably bring matters to a head on this debate if the current projections materialise on election day. Firstly, because the Tories in the Senedd have a position of working with Reform if the numbers add up, but more importantly a fourth-place finish in the election next May in Wales will inevitably destabilise the Tories at UK level.

Looking down the barrel of a humiliating election result at the next General Election, if the polls don’t shift, expect the volume on the unite the right clarion calls to get louder.

Jonathan Edwards Guest Writer

Final four interviewed for £100k Pembrokeshire council post

THE FINAL interviews for a new senior officer post at Pembrokeshire County Council, which commands a salary of £91,000 to £101,000, took place yesterday (Wednesday, October 1), with four candidates in the running from 110 who initially expressed an interest.

Councillors approved the recruitment of a candidate to fill the vacant post of the Head of Children’s Services earlier this year, following the resignation of Darren Mutter, who has since gone on to another post.

The ‘Band 3’ appointment

has a salary range of £91,884£100,867, along with an £6,494 allowance toward the cost of a lease car and reimbursement for one subscription to a professional body.

At the October 1 meeting of the council’s senior staff committee, which later went into private session for final interviews, members were told the post had been advertised in The Guardian newspaper, and across social media platform LinkedIn and the council’s own

social media account, with 110 expressions of interest, leading to 10 formal applications.

Those 10 were weaned down to six, later down to five during the interview process, with one candidate withdrawing leaving four to be considered, members heard.

The final interviews on the four were held in private session at the meeting.

A job description for the post’s criteria includes: “To lead and develop the transformation of the service to maximise early intervention and preventative approaches. To contribute to the corporate management of the organisation and to delivering services that safeguard children, improve educational attainment and focus on outcomes.

“Ensure that the ‘children’s voice’ is heard in all aspects of the department’s work. To provide a key link with the Chief Executive, Corporate Directors and work with other Heads of Service in ensuring that strategic and corporate objectives are effectively coordinated and implemented across all service areas.”

Fake Instagram account targets Welsh Senedd member

N IMPOSTER Instagram account posing as Welsh Conservative Senedd Member Paul Davies has been set up and is sending friend requests to his contacts.

The Preseli Pembrokeshire MS took to Facebook to warn constituents about the fraudulent profile, which uses his name and political role to appear genuine.

Mr Davies said: “It’s been brought to my attention that the Instagram account below has been set up and is sending friend requests to some of my contacts. They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery – and while that may be the case, I want to make it clear that this account is not affiliated with me or my office.”

The fake account, using the handle pauldaviespreselii with a double “i” at the end, has no posts but is already following more than 130 users. Its profile claims to be the official page of

the

MS. Mr Davies urged residents to ignore the fraudulent profile and instead follow his verified account: @pauldaviespreseli. Incidents of impersonation on social media have become increasingly common, with public figures often warning supporters not to share personal information with suspicious accounts.

BLUE vIEW

With Sam Kurtz MS

Its Politics, But Not as We Know It

I’ve been mulling over writing a post-conference piece since returning from the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, but decided to wait until after the Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch, had delivered her speech.

Firstly, yes, it was quieter. But truthfully, that’s to be expected in a fallow year with no General Election on the horizon (although we do, of course, have the Welsh, Scottish, and local elections in England, in May).

Yet while it was quieter, it was far from quiet. A full auditorium heard our leader Darren Millar MS speak on Sunday (a brilliant speech I must say) and queues were reported as people tried to get in to conference. And today, there was standing room only for Kemi Badenoch’s speech.

And it’s because of Kemi that I’ve called this piece “It’s politics, but not as we know it.”

During last year’s leadership election, my colleagues and I met with Kemi. I’d heard positive things about her, but as Chair of the Welsh Conservative Group in the Senedd, I was keeping my powder dry when it came to declaring support.

I’ve no hesitation in saying now that I voted for Kemi, but perhaps not for the reasons some might expect.

In that meeting, not once did she say, “We must do this” or “We will do that.” There was no shopping list of policies, only values.

She spoke about what she believed in. About what being a Conservative meant to her. And it resonated deeply.

It wasn’t the politics we’ve become used to, where promises are thrown around to secure a vote. Instead, it was: “Here’s what I believe in, and if you believe in it too, then join me on the journey.”

It was politics, but different.

I don’t pretend to be a political fortune teller, but I knew like many others that the next few years would be difficult for my Party after

the General Election. Two Labour governments in Westminster and Cardiff Bay, and a new populist party offering easy answers to a frustrated electorate.

To get real cut through as Conservatives was always going to be tough.

And so it has proven over the past 14 months. The polls have been challenging. Some politicians, seeking to save their own skin, have defected. Political gloom has crept in.

Yet, often away from the spotlight, Kemi has been building something.

She’s been speaking to businesses, the engine of our economy. Listening to those we didn’t do enough for when we were in government. Standing shoulder to shoulder with farmers.

She and her team have been developing policies, and a plan to deliver them, that are true to her values. Not soundbites, but substance.

She called it Renewal, but after her conference speech today, perhaps Reinvigorated is the better word!

I and others, from party faithful to outside commentariat, were impressed. Calm, confident, even personal at times, but always determined.

This speech won’t be the silver bullet. There may not be a sudden surge in the polls, and those frustrated with us will remain so, at least for now.

But they will now know, more clearly than at any point in recent years, what we as the Conservatives believe in. What we stand for.

Because if you stand for nothing, you’ll fall for anything.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Preseli Pembrokeshire

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAvEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

The week!

A CALL FOR COMPASSION BEYOND CAPITALISM

DEAR SIR,

Great minds throughout history — from Pythagoras to the modern scientists who uncover truths about the universe — have shown that both material and abstract truths exist in harmony. The same principles that define right-angled triangles in galaxies and molecules also guide the moral geometry of human society. Yet these truths, born of reason and ethics, have too often been distorted by ignorance and corrupted by greed.

In nature, we see devotion, sacrifice, and care — instincts most visibly nurtured by mothers and passed on to fathers across countless generations. From such examples of family devotion arose humanity’s greatest institutions of compassion: the United Nations, which aspires to justice among nations, and the NHS, which embodies care for all. These are monuments to the idea that our health and wellbeing are collective responsibilities, not commodities.

By contrast, right-wing politics and capitalism have rarely rested on moral foundations. In the United

States, the ethos of the Good Samaritan — risking life to help a stranger — is being replaced by indifference. Our societies have failed to teach young people their true birthright: that gratitude and compassion are worth far more than wealth or admiration from the powerful.

I propose something simple yet profound: that every 18-year-old, if able, donate blood fifty times over their adult lives. Such an act would instil a lifelong sense of shared humanity and gratitude — among both givers and receivers.

Today, as children in Gaza are bombed in their homes, Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to bring some of the injured here for medical care gives us a chance to live by our values. The gift of blood is not merely a medical gesture, but a symbol of who we are — or who we might yet become.

Philosophy and religion have long taught us deeper lessons than profit ever could. Perhaps, slowly, we may learn them once again.

C. N. Westerman

THE RULE OF LAW MUST NOT BE SACRIFICED TO POPULISM

DEAR SIR,

DEAR SIR,

I have written before about the dangerous erosion of the rule of law, and I feel compelled to speak out again — because the warning signs are flashing brighter than ever. Across the world, and now increasingly here in the United Kingdom, we are witnessing a race to the bottom as right-wing and populist forces gain traction by stoking division and undermining the very institutions that protect our freedoms.

We need only glance across the Atlantic to see where this path leads. In the United States, democratic norms have been shaken to their core, with political violence, disinformation, and contempt for judicial independence now part of daily life. Once the rule of law is weakened, it becomes perilously difficult to restore. The same rot can take hold anywhere if we do not remain vigilant.

That is why I am deeply alarmed by recent talk of withdrawing the UK from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This idea is not just reckless — it is historically ignorant. The ECHR was drafted in the aftermath of the Second World War to prevent the atrocities of fascism from ever recurring. Winston Churchill himself championed it, and Britain was the first nation

to ratify it. It stands as one of our proudest contributions to international justice.

To walk away from it now, as some politicians propose, would be to betray that legacy. It would strip away the very protections that define what it means to live in a civilised democracy — the right to a fair trial, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and protection from torture and arbitrary detention. These are not abstract legal niceties; they are the everyday safeguards that keep us free from tyranny and abuse of power.

And let us be clear: these rights are not under attack from one party alone. Elements within the Conservative Party openly question the Convention’s value. The Reform Party rails against it as an obstacle to their agenda. Even some in Labour seem reluctant to defend it with the courage and clarity it deserves. When all major political forces hesitate to uphold fundamental human rights, we should all be deeply concerned.

Human rights are not a luxury — they are the foundation of our democracy. Once we allow governments to decide which rights are “convenient” to respect, none of us is safe. The Convention protects the powerless from the powerful, the individual from the state, and it ensures that justice remains something more than the privilege of the few.

We must not allow short-term populism or cynical political calculation to dismantle what generations before us fought and died to secure. History has shown us, time and again, that freedom erodes not in great leaps, but in quiet steps — each one justified as “necessary” or “reasonable” until suddenly, the safeguards are gone.

It falls to every citizen, therefore, to speak out, to challenge misinformation, and to remind our leaders that human rights are not negotiable. If Britain is to remain a nation that stands for justice, decency, and democracy, it must remain firmly committed to the European Convention on Human Rights.

Love and peace, Angie zelter

Pic TUre oF

Bishops palace and st davids cathedral By Gareth davies photoGraphy

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Development of National Significance (Procedure) (Wales) Order 2016

PUBLICITY AND CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION – NOTICE UNDER ARTICLES 8 AND 9(2)

Purpose of this notice: this notice provides the opportunity to comment directly to the developer on a proposed Development of National Significance (DNS) prior to the submission of a planning application to Welsh Ministers. Planning applications for DNS will be publicised by Welsh Ministers and the relevant local planning authority; any comments provided in response to this notice will not prejudice your ability to make representations to the Welsh Ministers on any related DNS planning application.

Personal data will be collected from those who respond to the consultation. This is limited to names, addresses, email addresses and the comment(s) submitted. Comments will be submitted to Welsh Ministers along with the Pre-Application Consultation Report. This will enable Welsh Ministers to contact an individual if the application is accepted for examination.

Proposed development at land at White House Farm, Moorland Rd, Freystrop, Haverfordwest SA62 4LE & Middle Hill Farm, Freystrop, Haverfordwest SA62 4LD.

Qair Renewables UK Ltd are currently preparing a Development of National Significance planning application for submission to the Welsh Ministers for the instalment of a ground mounted photovoltaic solar array with an export capacity of up to 30MW, battery energy storage system, underground cabling, substation, associated infrastructure, an electricity connection to the national grid and landscape and ecological enhancements for a temporary period of 40 years.

The proposals are currently subject to a six-week period of Pre-Application Consultation, starting with the publication of the website (20 October 2025) and running until 1 December 2025. During this consultation, Qair Renewables UK Ltd are inviting the views and comments of the local community so that these can be considered in the preparation of the planning application.

You may inspect copies of draft application material and other supporting information online at: www.whitehousesolarandstorage.com

Any views or comments that you have can be sent via email to: info.uk@qair.energy or by telephone: 0151 212 3300. Please ensure that responses are received by the closing date of the consultation process.

Qair Renewables UK Ltd would also like to invite members of the local community to discuss the proposed development in-person at the Freystrop Village Hall, 207 New Rd, Freystrop Cross, Haverfordwest SA62 4HA between 3pm-8pm on Thursday 23 October 2025.

There will also be further opportunity to comment on the application once it has been formally submitted to Welsh Ministers. Updates relating to the proposals and application process will be published on the above website.

Gorchymyn Datblygu Arwyddocâd Cenedlaethol (Gweithdrefn) (Cymru) 2016

CYHOEDDUSRWYDD AC YMGYNGHORI

CYN GWNEUD CAIS AM GANIATÂD CYNLLUNIO – HYSBYSIAD O DAN ERTHYGLAU

Diben yr hysbysiad hwn: mae’r hysbysiad hwn yn rhoi cyfle i wneud sylwadau’n uniongyrchol i’r datblygwr ar Ddatblygiad arfaethedig o Arwyddocâd Cenedlaethol (DAC) cyn cyflwyno cais cynllunio i Weinidogion Cymru. Bydd ceisiadau cynllunio ar gyfer DAC yn cael eu cyhoeddi gan Weinidogion Cymru a’r awdurdod cynllunio lleol perthnasol; ni fydd unrhyw sylwadau a ddarperir mewn ymateb i’r hysbysiad hwn yn amharu ar eich gallu i wneud sylwadau i Weinidogion Cymru ar unrhyw gais cynllunio DAC cysylltiedig.

Bydd data personol yn cael ei gasglu gan y rhai sy’n ymateb i’r ymgynghoriad. Mae hyn wedi’i gyfyngu i enwau, cyfeiriadau, cyfeiriadau e-bost a’r sylwadau a gyflwynir. Bydd sylwadau’n cael eu cyflwyno i Weinidogion Cymru ynghyd â’r Adroddiad Ymgynghori Cyn Ymgeisio. Bydd hyn yn galluogi Gweinidogion Cymru i gysylltu ag unigolyn os derbynnir y cais i’w archwilio.

Datblygiad arfaethedig ar dir yn White House Farm, Moorland Rd, Freystrop, Hwlffordd SA62 4LE a Middle Hill Farm, Freystrop, Hwlffordd SA62 4LD.

Ar hyn o bryd mae Qair Renewables UK Ltd yn paratoi cais cynllunio Datblygu Arwyddocâd Cenedlaethol i’w gyflwyno i Weinidogion Cymru ar gyfer gosod arae solar ffotofoltäig wedi’i osod ar y ddaear gyda chynhwysedd allforio o hyd at 30MW, system storio ynni batris, ceblau tanddaearol, is-orsaf, seilwaith cysylltiedig, cysylltiad trydan â’r grid cenedlaethol a thirwedd a gwelliannau ecolegol am gyfnod dros dro o 40 mlynedd.

Ar hyn o bryd mae’r cynigion yn destun cyfnod o chwe wythnos o Ymgynghori Cyn Ymgeisio, gan ddechrau gyda chyhoeddi’r wefan (20 Hydref 2025) ac yn rhedeg tan 1 Rhagfyr 2025. Yn ystod yr ymgynghoriad hwn, mae Qair Renewables UK Ltd yn gwahodd barn a sylwadau’r gymuned leol fel y gellir ystyried y rhain wrth baratoi’r cais cynllunio.

Gallwch archwilio copïau o ddeunydd cais drafft a gwybodaeth ategol arall ar-lein yn: www.whitehousesolarandstorage.com

Gellir anfon unrhyw farn neu sylwadau sydd gennych drwy e-bost at: info.uk@qair.energy neu dros y ffôn: 0151 212 3300. Gwnewch yn siŵr bod ymatebion yn cael eu derbyn erbyn dyddiad cau’r broses ymgynghori.

Hoffai Qair Renewables UK Ltd hefyd wahodd aelodau o’r gymuned leol i drafod y datblygiad arfaethedig yn bersonol yn Neuadd Bentref Freystrop, 207 New Rd, Freystrop Cross, Hwlffordd SA62 4HA rhwng 3pm-8pm ddydd Iau 23 Hydref 2025.

Bydd cyfle pellach hefyd i wneud sylwadau ar y cais ar ôl iddo gael ei gyflwyno’n ffurfiol i Weinidogion Cymru. Bydd diweddariadau sy’n ymwneud â’r cynigion a’r broses ymgeisio yn cael eu cyhoeddi ar y wefan uchod.

Dated this day 10/10/2025

death notices

G EOFFREY OWEN T HOMAS

T HE death occurred peacefully at The South Pembs. Hospital on Thursday 18th September of Mr. Geoffrey Owen Thomas of Lamphey. He was 83.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday 15th October with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1.45.pm.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Geoff for The Paul Sartori Foundation may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115 who are carrying out the arrangements.

E LIZABETH M ARYLYN R AWLINSON

E LI z ABETH passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on the 21st September aged 88 years.

Dearly loved wife to the late John, adored mother, grandmother and friend to many, she will be greatly missed.

Her funeral service is to take place on Thursday 9th October 2.30pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Please feel free to wear a splash of colour.

Family flowers only.

Donations, if desired, for Wales

Air Ambulance may be sent c/o Mr. Kevin James, Woodson Farm, Lower Thornton, Milford Haven, SA73 3UQ. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

WALWYN ‘’K ENNY ’’ K ENNETH DAv IES

T HE death occurred at home on Wednesday 24th September 2025 of Mr. Walwyn Kenneth Davies, affectionally known as ‘Ken’ & ‘Kenny’ aged 77 years of Pembroke Road, Pembroke Dock.

Devoted and Much-loved Husband to Pauline. Treasured Dad and Pappy.

The funeral service will take place on Monday 13th October 2025 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11:30am.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired for Prostate Cymru and The British Heart Foundation c/o E. C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, 21 Main Street, Pembroke, SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 and Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth, SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via: www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

R OBERT ‘B OB ’ P HILLIPS

B OB passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, on Monday 22nd September aged 84 years, of Norton, Rosemarket. Loving husband to June, devoted father to Catherine, Sarah and Alison,

adored Grandad to Amy, Jack, Ellen, Sophie, Harry and Niamh, and proud Great Grandad to baby Arthur.

Private family service to be held at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth followed by a memorial service at St Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest on Thursday 16th October at 1:30pm when all are welcome to celebrate Bob’s life.

Family flowers only. Any welcome donations to be shared between The MS Society and The RNLI, two worthy charities close to the family’s hearts.

Cheques to be made payable to Mr A N Hambleton and sent to Mr Anthony Hambleton, 80 The Moor, Coleorton, Coalville, LE67 8GE.

Bank transfer to Mr A N Hambleton (Bob Phillips donation) A/C: 94122623 Sort Code: 401915.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180.

M AGGIE B RADBURY

I T is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Maggie Bradbury on Sunday 21st September 2025.

A loving Wife of Peter Bradbury for 58 years. Much loved Mother to Peter and Sabra. Adored Granny to Bethan, Ellie, Alex, Megan and William. Great Granny to Mattéo and Austin.

Funeral service on Monday 13th October at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1pm.

Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘M.S. Society’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB Tel: 01348 873250

M ARGARET E LAINE L EWIS

P EACEFULLY at Glangwili Hospital on Thursday 18th September, Margaret of Stop & Call, Goodwick.

Beloved wife of the late Trevor, loving mother of Nicola, much loved grandmother of Siân and Catrin and a treasured great grandmother of Maria. Funeral service on Saturday 11th October at St Gwyndaf’s Church, Llanwnda at 2:30pm followed by interment at Llanwnda Cemetery. Flowers from friends and family welcome.

Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB Tel: 01348 873250

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Bluebirds soar past Flint to end winless run

HAVERFORDWEST

COUNTY returned to winning ways on Saturday (Oct 4) with a determined 3–1 victory over Flint Town United at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium.

The home side started brightly, keeping possession well and creating several early chances, but it took a moment of brilliance from defender Rhys Abbruzzese to break the deadlock in the 33rd minute. His curling free kick from the edge of the box flew into the top corner, giving the Bluebirds a deserved lead.

After the break, manager Tony Pennock’s side continued to press and doubled their advantage just five minutes into the second half. Dan Hawkins finished a flowing move with a precise strike into the top corner to make it 2–0.

Flint hit back on 61 minutes when Jake Phillips’s windassisted cross deceived everyone and found its way into the net, setting up a tense final half hour. The visitors pushed for an equaliser, but Haverfordwest stood firm in defence, with Zac Jones making a crucial save to keep them ahead.

Substitute Iori Humphreys

made sure of the points in the 89th minute, heading home from close range after a short corner routine to seal the victory.

Speaking after the game, manager Tony Pennock praised

his side’s work rate and focus: “That was a real battle. Flint are a very good side, and we had to dig deep to get the result. I’m proud of how the players responded.”

The result lifts Haverfordwest

up the Cymru Premier table and provides a welcome boost of confidence after a difficult run of fixtures.

Next up for the Bluebirds is an away trip to Cardiff Met in the Cymru Premier next weekend.

Haverfordwest County launch Bluebirds Foundation

HAVERFORDWEST

County AFC have launched

The Bluebirds Foundation — a newly registered charity set up to support local people and deliver community-

focused projects across Pembrokeshire.

The foundation represents the charitable arm of the club and has been officially approved by the Charity Commission,

allowing Haverfordwest County to expand its work beyond the pitch and into social impact initiatives.

Community Manager, Harry Thomas, said: “This is a huge

step forward for our club, and acceptance from The Charity Commission marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.”

The Bluebirds Foundation will focus on health and wellbeing programmes, educational partnerships, and inclusion activities for young people and families. It aims to strengthen the bond between the club and local residents through volunteering, outreach, and grassroots development.

The launch comes as the club continues to grow its profile both on and off the field, following a successful European campaign last summer and the ongoing redevelopment of its facilities at Bridge Meadow.

The foundation will also play a key role in Haverfordwest County’s wider commitment to the #PlayingForPembrokeshire ethos — ensuring that the club gives back to the communities that support it.

Council submits Scarlets impact report to WRU

NEW research has revealed that Pembrokeshire has seen the biggest increase in online searches for women’s sports in Wales — rising by an impressive 301% over the past year.

The data, compiled by Burgess Hill Girls School using Google search trends, compared figures from August 2024 to August 2025 across the UK. It found a national surge in interest, with searches for women’s sports increasing from 1,076,380 to 4,160,570, representing a 287% rise overall.

England recorded the largest increase of the individual nations at 289%, followed by Wales (280%), Scotland (270%), and Northern Ireland (232%).

Within Wales, Pembrokeshire topped the list, followed by Powys (283%), Vale of Glamorgan (280%), Cardiff (262%), and Monmouth (228%). Cardiff, however, recorded the highest overall number of searches, with 13,520 in August 2025.

Anne Pithie, Director of Marketing and Communications at Burgess Hill Girls School, said the data reflects a positive shift in how girls and young women are engaging with sport.

“Team sports can develop deep bonds as wins and losses are shared, as well as helping to build resilience, co-working and leadership skills,” she said. “But to reap the benefits, girls need to be able to access sports with as much provision and support as boys have traditionally.”

Pithie pointed to the UK Girls School Association’s 2022 report, which found that girls attending its member schools were 30% more likely to play football than those in coeducational schools — a result of

CARMARTHENSHIRE County Council has submitted an economic and social impact report on the Scarlets to the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) as part of a consultation on the future of regional rugby in Wales.

The independent report, produced by consultancy firm SQW, highlights the significant contribution made by the Llanelli-based club to the local and regional economy, as well as its wider community value.

According to the assessment, the Scarlets generated £17.3 million in gross value added (GVA) to the economy in 2024/25, supporting 336 jobs across Carmarthenshire and the surrounding region. Over the next five years, the total impact could exceed £102 million as the club continues to recover and grow after the pandemic.

The report describes the Scarlets as an “anchor institution” — one of

greater access to traditionally maledominated sports.

The rise in interest has been attributed to the ongoing success of women’s leagues worldwide. In the UK, the Lionesses’ back-toback European championships have inspired new generations of female footballers. Meanwhile, the WNBA in the United States has seen viewership soar by 23%, driven by stars such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, while India’s Women’s Premier League cricket audience more than doubled between 2023 and 2024.

Despite these gains, significant inequalities remain.

“In 2024, the top 15 female athletes worldwide earned $221 million, while Cristiano Ronaldo alone earned $260 million,” Pithie added. “It highlights how far there is still to go in achieving true parity.”

She said that continued investment, visibility and role models are essential to sustaining progress.

“We’ll continue to support our girls however we can — whether they want to compete at a high level or simply enjoy the lifelong benefits of sport.”

the area’s largest employers and a key driver of community activity for all ages and abilities. It also emphasises the club’s cultural importance as Wales’s only professional rugby team based in a majority Welsh-speaking area.

Council Leader Cllr Darren Price said: “The Scarlets are much more than a rugby club. They are a catalyst for economic growth, a cornerstone of community wellbeing, and a proud ambassador for our region’s culture and values. Their continued presence and success are vital not only for Carmarthenshire, but for the future of regional rugby and the communities it serves.”

The submission of the impact assessment follows a joint letter from the Council’s Leader and Chief Executive to the WRU as part of the ongoing consultation.

Wales over-70s crowned world champions (again!)

The Wales men’s over-70s football team have been crowned world champions for the second year in a row after victory in Japan.

The side, who did not concede a single goal throughout the tournament, beat the USA 2-0 in the final thanks to a brace from Graham Miles.

Goalkeeper Alan Meacham described the week as “brilliant” but “very demanding” as the squad battled heat, humidity and the time difference.

“It’s been really tough, but the boys have pulled together,” he told BBC Radio Wales Drive. “We’ve got a great team spirit and it’s been a fantastic experience for us at our age.”

The veteran squad played six matches, taking on sides from Germany and Australia before reaching the final. Meacham said Wales had been “by far the best team” for most of the tournament,

but admitted they were under heavy pressure in the final.

“We had our backs to the wall for much of the game. The USA are a quality side with lots of former MLS professionals. But once we got our noses in front there was no way we were going to lose.”

Despite being “shattered” after the final, the players still managed to celebrate with food and drinks – and say there will “absolutely” be a party back home in Wales.

Meacham added that veterans’ football in Wales is thriving, with around 2,000 players competing in five-year age bands from over-40s through to over-70s.

“It’s great for our physical and mental well-being. We’ve made so many friends and had fantastic experiences,” he said.

With two consecutive titles secured, attention is already turning to 2026.

Pembrokeshire surge in women’s sports interest

Haverfordwest County seeks investment

c hairman r ob e dwards says club must “keep moving forwards” as expectations grow

HAVERFORDWEST County AFC are on the hunt for fresh investment to secure their long-term future and meet the growing demands of professional football in Wales.

Chairman Rob Edwards has appealed for new backers to help take the club into its next phase — one that could see the Bluebirds move towards full-time status, compete in Europe year after year, and continue to develop local talent through a strengthened academy system.

In an open letter to fans on Sunday (Oct 5), Edwards said the club had achieved “incredible success” since he took over from David Hughes in 2020, but warned that future progress would depend on finding new partners willing to share his vision.

“With success comes expectation,” he wrote. “It’s my expectation, and that of the staff, players, fans and everybody at the football club, that we continue to keep moving forwards. However, we need to be realistic in how far we can take the club forward as a Board.”

European success and community growth

Haverfordwest County have enjoyed a remarkable run over the past five years, qualifying for Europe twice in three seasons and recording their first-ever win in continental competition. The club also achieved a third-place finish last season, while the under-19 side lifted a domestic treble before competing in the UEFA Youth League.

Off the field, Edwards has overseen major investment in facilities, including a new artificial pitch, improved stands and club offices, a girls’ academy, and a revived women’s team. The club’s community programme now engages thousands of adults and children

across Pembrokeshire, helping to make it one of the most visible and accessible clubs in south Wales.

The challenge ahead

But maintaining that level of success comes at a cost. Competing with full-time sides in the Cymru Premier — while meeting UEFA licensing standards — requires increasing financial support, sponsorship and long-term planning.

The chairman said the club already has “a clear and concise business plan” to manage the transition to fulltime football, with youth development and community engagement at its heart. However, additional investment will be vital to turn that plan into reality.

“We feel we have created an opportunity with huge potential,” Edwards said. “We are now actively looking for investors to help us on this journey and achieve the goals we have for the club.”

‘I love this club very much’

Edwards stressed that he remains committed to the Bluebirds and will continue to back the management and coaching teams while talks with potential investors take place.

“I love this club very much, and it’s been the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced,” he said. “We want to make sure we can get Haverfordwest County to where everybody associated with the club, the fans, and the local community, deserve.”

Haverfordwest County currently have the highest average attendance in south Wales and are viewed by many as one of Welsh football’s bestrun community clubs.

The call for investment marks a critical moment in their journey — a chance to turn years of steady growth into a sustainable future capable of keeping the Bluebirds flying high for years to come.

manderwood Pembrokeshire leagUe

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Bluebirds soar past Flint to end winless run