The Pembrokeshire Herald 11/04/2025

Armed police with dogs close Narberth town centre

ARMED police officers and dog units swarmed the centre of Narberth on the evening of Friday, April 4, prompting road closures and concern from residents.

Market Street was sealed off as officers responded to what Dyfed-Powys Police later described as a “concern for the behaviour and welfare of a man in the area”.

A witness at the scene reported seeing five police vehicles and around a dozen officers, some armed and accompanied by police dogs. A battering ram was also seen being carried by one of the officers.

The Herald understands that the incident began early on Friday evening, with officers remaining at the scene for several hours

In a statement issued on Wednesday (Apr 9), a police spokesperson said: “Concern was raised for the behaviour and welfare of a man in the Narberth area late on Friday, April 4. Following a search and a number of enquiries, the man was spoken to and was safe and well.”

No arrests were made, and the road was reopened later that evening.

Community rallies to support family after Tregunnor house fire

A FAMILY has been left with nothing after a devastating house fire tore through their home in Tregunnor on Monday (Apr 7).

The blaze destroyed everything inside the house, leaving the homeowner, his children, and their family dog with only the clothes on their backs. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the emotional impact of losing their home and belongings has been described as “immeasurable.”

In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been launched by the homeowner’s nephew, Kian Evans, in an effort to help the family rebuild their lives. The fundraiser, titled “Tregunnor House Fire,” has so

far raised £40 from two donors, with hopes that more support will follow.

Mr Evans praised the emergency services for their swift response and thanked the local community for their messages of support and solidarity.

He wrote: “They have lost everything, from furniture to cherished memories. The goal is to help them get back on their feet after such a traumatic experience. Every little helps.”

The family now face the daunting task of starting over, but thanks to the generosity of those around them, they are not facing it alone.

To donate to the fundraiser, visit: gofundme.com/f/tregunnor-house-fire

Newcastle Emlyn man admits to attempted murder of baby

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

A MAN from Cwm Cou, Newcastle Emlyn has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of a baby.

Rhydian Jamieson, aged 28, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Apr 10), where he admitted to trying to kill the infant, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

The offence took place at an address in Y Ferwig, near Cardigan, just before 10:15pm on Wednesday, January 15.

Police responded to reports concerning the welfare of a child, and the baby was taken straight to hospital.

Jamieson was arrested at the scene and later charged.

At an earlier hearing, concerns had

been raised about whether he was fit to stand trial. A provisional date had been set for September 1, but this has now been cancelled following his guilty plea.

Judge Paul Thomas KC remanded Jamieson into custody and said he would be sentenced on May 27.

Caroline Rees KC appeared for the prosecution, with John Hipkin KC defending.

The fire which destroyed a family home in Tregunnor (Pic: Herald).

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Image: Richard Williams

Teen drug dealers admit handgun plot

TWO teenagers have now fully admitted being involved in cocaine dealing and conspiring to obtain a handgun — including a youth who crashed a stolen Mercedes-Benz into a house in Milford Haven last year.

Harrison Billing, 18, of Jury Lane, Haverfordwest, and Danhiellen Raji, 18, of no fixed abode, appeared again at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Apr 4) for an adjourned plea and trial preparation hearing.

Billing had already admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine between January 14 and February 13 this year, as well as conspiring to possess a handgun without a firearms certificate. He also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine on February 12, and denied a charge of possessing a knife on the A477 in Pembrokeshire on the same day.

The court heard that the Crown Prosecution Service had now accepted

his not guilty plea to the knife charge, and Judge Catherine Richards entered a formal not guilty verdict.

Raji, who had originally denied possession with intent to supply cocaine on February 12, changed his plea to guilty at the hearing. He had already admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine and the firearm conspiracy, and had pleaded guilty to possessing a knife on the A477.

Prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton confirmed that no trial would be required for Raji or Billing, and that the Crown would proceed to sentencing.

The court was told that presentence reports would be prepared for both defendants. Judge Richards warned Billing that he should expect an immediate custodial sentence. “He’s fully aware of that,” said his barrister,

Billing is known locally for a dramatic crash on Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven, in December 2024, when he ploughed a Mercedes-Benz into a house during a high-speed police pursuit. A large zombie knife was discovered on the road near the scene the following day and was later recovered by officers.

The pair’s co-defendants — Casey Gregory, 28, of Cromwell Heights, Milford Haven, and John Phillips, 36, of Pen Puffin, Steynton — continue to deny charges of possession with intent to supply cocaine and a lesser alternative of simple possession.

Phillips has admitted a separate charge of possessing cannabis.

Gregory and Phillips were readmitted to bail, with their trial scheduled to begin on August 4. Billing and Raji remain remanded in custody and will be sentenced following the outcome of that trial.

Man fined for breaching domestic violence protection order

A MILFORD HAVEN man who breached a domestic violence protection order just weeks after it was imposed has been fined by magistrates.

Shaun Saunders, aged 33, of Richard John Road, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on

Monday (Apr 7), where he admitted the breach.

The court heard that on April 5, Saunders was found at his home address with a female, despite a domestic violence protection order issued by Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on March 14 forbidding contact between them. The order had been put in place to protect Ms Rowley following a previous domestic incident.

Magistrates fined Saunders £50 for the breach. A collection order was made, with the fine to be paid by May 5.

Dyfed Thomas.

Court Reporter

Steel nationalisation talks ‘unfair on Wales’, says Plaid

PLAID CYMRU has accused the UK government of failing to support Welsh steel communities equally, after it emerged that nationalisation is being considered for British Steel’s Scunthorpe plant—but was ruled out for Port Talbot.

The party has renewed its call for public ownership of the Port Talbot steelworks following comments from Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who said nationalising British Steel remains an option to save jobs at its loss-making Scunthorpe site.

Plaid’s economy spokesperson, Luke Fletcher MS, said: “If it’s good enough for Scunthorpe, why wasn’t it good enough for Port Talbot?”

In September last year, Tata Steel closed its two blast furnaces at Port Talbot with the loss of 2,800 jobs. The closure followed a £500 million support deal with the UK government to help the firm transition to greener steel production—but nationalisation was not considered.

Fletcher, who represents southwest Wales, told BBC Radio Wales: “We were asking for nationalisation to be looked at until we were blue in the face. Labour promised that having governments in Cardiff and Westminster would save Welsh steel—but in the end, the deal they offered wasn’t much different to the Conservatives’.”

Back in 2016, the Conservative government said nationalisation was not an option for Port Talbot. The £500m package announced last year under Labour was broadly the same as the one proposed by the outgoing government.

Plaid’s Swansea spokesperson, Dr Gwyn Williams, said nationalisation could have allowed Wales to adopt hydrogen-based steelmaking, like Tata is doing in the Netherlands.

“Tata are using green hydrogen at their Dutch site but have refused to do the same in Wales,” he said. “Plaid believes Wales deserves world-class green technology to build a sustainable economy for future generations.”

On Thursday, Tata said it had taken

a major step forward in decarbonising its operations at Port Talbot, signing contracts with Clecim and ABB

Limited to deliver a new pickle line— specialist equipment used in modern steel processing.

Meanwhile, British Steel’s Chinese owner, Jingye, has said the Scunthorpe site is losing £700,000 a day. Around 2,700 people are employed there and the plant is home to the UK’s last blast furnaces.

Talks to try to secure the future of the site are expected to resume

this week, with the UK government reportedly offering to buy coal to keep the furnaces running. On Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that “all options” are being considered—including nationalisation.

Carrie Bone, UK steel editor at Kallanish Commodities, told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast that both Tata and British Steel were in similar situations—facing major losses and needing to modernise.

She noted that Tata accepted the

£500m offered by government, while British Steel reportedly turned it down and asked for £1 billion.

“You can understand why the government might be hesitant to offer that much,” she said. “It’s not clear why nationalisation wasn’t considered for Tata, but there are thousands of jobs at stake—and the optics of letting the UK’s last blast furnace close are politically very difficult.”

The UK government has been approached for comment.

Milford Haven man fined for breaching suspended sentence order

A MILFORD HAVEN man has been fined after failing to carry out unpaid work required under a suspended sentence order.

Lee Pearce, aged 47, of Milton

Crescent, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7) where he admitted breaching the terms of the order.

RNLI lifeguards return to Pembrokeshire beaches for the Easter Holidays

THE RNLI Lifeguards are set to return to beaches this weekend ahead of the Easter Holidays. The RNLI are advising that anyone visiting the coast, should choose a lifeguarded beach.

Last year (2024) RNLI lifeguards in West Wales of responded to 654 incidents, aided 1,055 people, made 96,388 preventative actions and saved five lives.

This Saturday 12 April, RNLI lifeguards are returning to their posts to keep visitors safe at beaches in Pembrokeshire.

The RNLI will be patrolling at Whitesands Beach every day from 10am-6pm from 12-27 April. Lifeguards will also be patrolling at Tenby South Beach from 10am-6pm from 18-21 April.

From Monday 1 April, the service will continue on weekends only at Whitesands until 25 May when the beach goes live full time. Tenby South will also be patrolled at weekends only until 25 May.

The RNLI encourages beachgoers to swim between the red and yellow flags. Lifeguards position the flags in the safest area of the beach and patrol this area at all times.

Anyone intending on intend on surfing or participating in hard craft activity, should stay between the black and white flags.

At this time of year, when the sea is at its coldest, cold water shock is a possibility. Water temperature below 15 degrees can affect breathing and

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

movement, which often causes panic and can lead to drowning.

Anyone planning a dip is advised to wear a wetsuit, to minimise the risk of

cold water shock and the carrying of a floatation device is recommended.

Stuart Penfold Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for North Pembrokeshire said: ‘We’re very much looking forward to having our lifeguards back on the beach. Our team have recently gone through intensive training in preparation for the Easter Holidays.

‘Should people plan on going in the sea during the holidays, we encourage them to visit on of our patrolled beaches. We can keep an eye on you between our flags. Our goal is to keep everyone safe.

‘If you go in the sea at a non-patrolled beach, make sure you someone knows where you are at all times and that you have a means for calling for help.

‘If you find yourself or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. If you fall in the water unexpectedly, try to relax and float to live.’

RNLI Float to Live advice:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged

• Relax and try to breathe normally

• Move your hands to help you stay afloat

• It’s okay if your legs sink, we all float differently

• Spread your arms and legs to improve stability

Man breached community order after stealing from five Pembrokeshire shops

A PEMBROKE DOCK man who stole alcohol and groceries from several shops and later breached a community order has been fined by magistrates.

Ashley Anthony Mardon, aged 36, of The Inbetween Guest House, Pembroke Road, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7).

The court heard Mardon failed to attend two appointments arranged by probation as part of a community order made on February 10 this year. The order had been imposed for a series of thefts committed in late 2024.

These included:

• Stealing Carlsberg worth £12.49 from Home Bargains, Pembroke

Dock on December 12.

• Theft of groceries worth £11.00 from the same store on December 5.

• Taking alcohol and soft drinks worth £7.78 from Spar Stores in Monkton on November 24.

• Stealing food and alcohol worth £17.00 from Londis, Pembroke on October 18.

• Taking alcohol and food worth £39.75 from Iceland, Haverfordwest on September 24.

Mardon admitted breaching the community order. Magistrates revoked the order and ordered him to pay £60 in costs. A collection order and application for benefit deductions were made to recover the amount.

Sanna Duthie to take on Pembs Coast Path in record-breaking fundraising challenge

A NEW record could soon be set on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path as ultra-runner Sanna Duthie prepares to take on the full 186-mile trail in under 50 hours to raise vital funds for the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust.

Starting at Poppit Sands at 8.30am on Thursday 24 April, Sanna will attempt to beat her own record of 51 hours and 30 minutes, which she set in 2021. The challenge will push her physical and mental endurance to the limit as she navigates the rugged and spectacular coastline of the UK’s only coastal National Park.

Sanna’s motivation for this challenge goes beyond breaking records. She is driven by her deep connection to the Coast Path and her desire to help safeguard it for future generations. The funds raised will support essential maintenance, from rebuilding storm-damaged bridges to protecting ancient monuments and combating coastal erosion.

Speaking about her challenge, Sanna said: “The Coast Path has given me so much over the years – it’s my training ground, my escape, and my inspiration. Now, it’s time for me to give something back. I hope to raise £2,000 to help protect and preserve this incredible trail, ensuring that others can continue to experience its beauty and challenges for years to come.”

Sanna’s record-breaking attempt is being supported by the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust, which funds crucial conservation projects within the

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

National Park.

Trust Director Katie Macro added:

“Sanna’s determination and passion for the Coast Path are truly inspiring. Her challenge highlights the urgent need for funding to protect this iconic trail from the increasing threats of climate change, erosion, and declining public funding. Every donation, no matter how small, will help us continue this essential work.”

For those inspired by Sanna’s feat but not quite ready to run 186 miles, the Trust’s Wild Coast Challenge offers an alternative way to experience the Coast Path while supporting its future. This fundraising adventure invites walkers to complete the trail at their own pace—whether over weeks, months, or even a year.

By raising just £200, participants will directly contribute to conservation efforts while earning a Wild Coast Challenge t-shirt as a badge of honour for their achievement.

Further information about this can be found at https:// pembrokeshirecoasttrust.wales.

To support Sanna’s recordbreaking attempt and help her reach her £2,000 fundraising target, visit her JustGiving page at https:// www.justgiving.com/page/sannaduthie-1729103753472.

Pensioner begs for return of marshmallow tea

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

A ST DAVIDS pensioner has urged Dyfed-Powys Police to return her marshmallow tea—after it was seized during a drugs raid at her home.

Barbara Lewis, of High Street, St Davids, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday (Apr 8) following her arrest the previous day.

Police had executed a drugs warrant at her property on January 3 and discovered 3.4 grams of cannabis. In the process, officers also confiscated what they believed to be other suspicious substances— including a packet of marshmallow root tea.

Ms Lewis was due to appear in court on February 11, but failed to attend. Her solicitor, Michael Kelleher, told the court she had been on holiday in Portugal at the time.

“Her passport was stolen while she was abroad,” he explained. “She was due to fly home the day before court, but with no passport, she was stuck in limbo and unable to travel.”

Ms Lewis was arrested on Monday and spent a night in police custody before her court appearance.

She pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis, a Class B drug, and to failing to surrender to bail. Magistrates handed her a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered her to pay £85 in court costs and a £25 victim surcharge. A forfeiture and destruction order was made for the cannabis.

But before she left the courtroom, the pensioner made one final plea—to the magistrates.

“Can I have my marshmallow tea back, please?” she asked. “Because when the police arrested me, they took that too. They thought it was cannabis!”

Whether the officers will brew over their decision remains to be seen.

Tenby caravan park could be set for huge redevelopment

PLANS to redevelop a Pembrokeshire caravan site to create “a notably higher quality” facility which will actually see less pitches have been submitted.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Hean Castle Estate seeks permission for the redevelopment and extension of the existing Rowston Holiday Park, New Hedges, near Tenby, including the installation of bases for the siting of caravans; demolition of buildings; and the conversion of an agricultural barn to a residential dwelling, along with associated works.

Alongside Rowston, Hean Castle Estate owns and manages land and property locally including nearby Scar Farm Holiday Park with 145 owneroccupied static holiday homes and Coppet Hall Beach Centre, as well as agricultural, forestry and residential properties.

The proposals will see the actual number of holiday accommodation pitches at Rowston decrease from 225 to 187, “while making significant environmental enhancements to landscaping, visual effects, biodiversity and the highway network,” the applicants say.

A supporting statement through agent Lichfields says: “Substantial investment will be made by Hean

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Castle Estate that will result in the removal of dense and visually prominent caravans in linear layouts which will be replaced with lower density, relaxed layouts of muted

colours that are embedded within extensive new native tree and hedgerow planting.

“The shift to create a notably higher quality caravan park will attract new and repeat visitors across most of the year, reinforcing the tourist accommodation offer in the National

Park, in line with the objectives of the Local Development Plan.”

It says Rowston was previously operated by a third party under lease but its layout no longer meets “the demands of the modern tourism industry, and the lack of any substantial landscaping on the Park means that it does not fit with the estate’s ethos of maintaining a working landscape”.

It adds: “Hean Castle Estate aspires for Rowston Holiday Park to provide an attractive, welllandscaped retreat with mature trees and hedgerows. The static caravans would be sold to private owners and would not be available for sub-let.”

The proposed development includes the removal of the remaining existing bases, and installation of new bases for the siting of 172 static caravans across the existing holiday park and proposed extension area, with 95 bases in the existing park and 77 in the extension area, 15 touring pitch bases in the existing park, the demolition of former laundrette and diner buildings, demolition of two agricultural buildings, the conversion of a barn to manager accommodation, the creation of 273 parking spaces, and other works.

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

Public asked to have say on school transport policy

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL has launched a public consultation on its School Transport Policy, inviting residents to share their views as part of a wider review into the future of school transport provision.

The local authority currently provides daily transport to school or college for more than 4,500 eligible learners, at an annual cost of over £8 million.

While no specific changes are being proposed at this stage, the Council says public feedback will help shape future policy. Any changes arising from the review would need to be both deliverable and affordable, taking into account ongoing driver shortages and the wider

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

financial pressures faced by the authority. Should any amendments be made to the policy, they would come into effect from September 2026.

Residents have until Sunday, May 18, 2025, to complete the survey, which can be accessed online at: https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/ have-your-say/school-transport-policyconsultation

Paper copies are also available by calling the Council’s Contact Centre on 01437 764551 or by emailing: school. transport@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Whitland woman to face trial over alleged £85,000 fraud

A WHITLAND woman is due to stand trial later this year accused of misusing power of attorney to take tens of thousands of pounds from an elderly woman.

Shirley Williams, aged 53, appeared at Swansea Crown Court where she denied a single charge of fraud.

The prosecution alleges that between October 2017 and April 2022, Williams exploited her legal authority over the complainant’s finances for personal gain—transferring funds into

her own bank account and using the money to purchase goods for herself.

Prosecutor Craig Jones told the court that the amount allegedly taken was likely to exceed £85,000.

Williams, however, has denied wrongdoing. Her barrister, Jon Tarrant, said that all financial activity was carried out with the full knowledge and consent of the individual concerned.

The case has been listed for trial on December 15. Williams remains on bail until that date.

Senior doctor at West Wales hospital sexually assaulted staff

A SENIOR doctor at Morriston Hospital used his position to sexually assault two female colleagues while on duty, a court has heard.

Naleen Thota, aged 55, deliberately targeted the women when they were alone, ensuring no witnesses were present before carrying out the assaults. Both incidents took place on separate dates while Thota was working in the intensive care unit at the Swansea hospital.

During sentencing at Swansea Crown Court, the judge described Thota’s behaviour as “a gross and calculated abuse of power and position”. The court heard that Thota’s seniority and reputation among colleagues allowed him to act with impunity.

Victim impact statements read to the court revealed the devastating toll the assaults had on the women. One described how Thota had “wielded his position of power like a weapon to hurt me and silence me”, adding that the violation took her mental health “to a very dark place”.

The second woman said Thota’s conduct was “predatory and calculating”. She told the court that he had groomed his victims, hiding behind

a friendly façade while manipulating situations to his advantage. She has since required counselling to cope with the trauma.

The court heard that both women were initially too afraid to report the incidents, fearing they would not be believed due to Thota’s status at the hospital.

Thota, of Keepers Close in Penllergaer, was convicted at trial of two counts of sexual assault. He has no previous convictions.

Judge Catherine Richards praised the “enormous courage and strength” shown by the victims in coming forward. She told Thota: “Like sexual offenders before you, these offences were born out of the exercise of power used against these women without regard for the impact on them. You brought shame and disgrace on your family.”

The court heard that Thota trained as a doctor in India before moving to the UK more than two decades ago. He had worked in Swansea almost continuously during that time.

His barrister, Hywel Davies, said Thota’s family were likely to have to sell their home and move due to the shame caused by his actions. He also said Thota was now taking steps

to address his attitudes towards the workplace.

Although the court found that the offences crossed the custody threshold, Judge Richards imposed a suspended sentence, citing the impact on Thota’s wife and daughters and the strain on the prison system.

Thota was sentenced to 21 months in prison, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work, attend a rehabilitation programme, and is subject to 10-year restraining orders. He will remain on the sex offenders’ register for the next decade.

Monkton man admits shop thefts on consecutive days

A MONKTON man has admitted stealing from shops on two consecutive days and now awaits sentencing.

Dylan Newton, aged 26, of Colley Court, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), where he pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from a shop.

The court heard that Newton committed the first offence on April 3, 2025, and a second theft the following day, April 4. Details of the items taken and the stores involved were not disclosed in open court.

Newton entered guilty pleas to both charges and was represented by Tom Lloyd. Dennis Davies prosecuted for

CPS Wales (South West).

The bench, chaired by Mrs C Kendrick, sitting with Mrs A TaylorJones and Mrs J Morris, accepted the pleas. Sentencing has been adjourned.

Newport man jailed for multidrug supply in Pembrokeshire

Pembroke Dock man admits assault and criminal damage

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has pleaded guilty to assault and criminal damage during a domestic incident last year.

Sam Wilkins, aged 42, of Bethel Road, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), where he admitted charges of assault by beating and causing criminal damage.

The offences took place on November 7, 2024, in Pembrokeshire. Wilkins was accused of assaulting a woman and damaging a coat valued at £60.

He also admitted breaching bail conditions on March 18, 2025, after contacting an individual he had been ordered not to communicate with.

The bench, chaired by Mrs C Kendrick, sitting with Mrs A TaylorJones and Mrs J Morris, remanded Wilkins on conditional bail until April 15, 2025, when he is due to return to court for sentencing.

Bail conditions include:

No contact, directly or indirectly, with named individuals involved in the case, Not to enter a specified address in Kilgetty,

Child contact to be arranged via a third party only,

Full compliance with probation requirements for a pre-sentence report.

Wilkins was represented by Jess Hill, and the prosecution was led by Dennis Davies of CPS Wales (South West).

Johnston man caught drink driving on same day as court appearance

Jones,

Newport

A NEWPORT man caught with a range of illegal drugs in Pembrokeshire has been jailed for nearly three years.

Luke Jones, aged 33, of Maes Morfa, was stopped by police while driving on the A4076 at Dredgeman Hill near Milford Haven at around 8:00pm on June 3 last year. Officers noticed his eyes appeared glazed and carried out a roadside drugs test, which showed positive results for both cocaine and cannabis.

Following his arrest, police discovered two vacuum-sealed bags in the vehicle. One contained 13.9 grams of cocaine with an estimated value of up to £1,700, and the other held 41 grams of herbal cannabis, worth approximately £520. A further search at the police station uncovered another vacuumsealed bag with 54 grams of cannabis resin, valued at £340.

Luke Jones, aged 33, of Maes Morfa, Newport

Although no drugs were found on Jones himself, officers recovered £337.81 in cash from the car, stored in

envelopes.

The following day, officers searched his home address and found 135 grams of amphetamine, a small amount of cocaine, 2.26 grams of cannabis resin, and less than half a gram of MDMA mixed with ketamine. They also found two sets of digital scales, snap bags, and additional vacuum-sealed packaging.

Analysis of his mobile phone revealed a series of messages relating to the supply of drugs, including cocaine, cannabis and amphetamine, dating back to December 2023. Financial investigators also identified over £12,000 in unexplained bank transfers into Jones’ account during the previous year. However, the court heard no Proceeds of Crime action would be pursued beyond the cash seized during his arrest.

Jones had already appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court in December, where he admitted drugdriving. He was banned from driving for 17 months and handed a one-year community order.

He later pleaded guilty at Swansea Crown Court to multiple charges including being concerned in the supply of cocaine, cannabis, ketamine and amphetamine; possession with intent to supply cocaine, cannabis, resin and amphetamine; and possession of ketamine and MDMA.

His barrister, Hannah George, told the court that Jones’ drug use stemmed from personal trauma and the loss of several family members. She said his arrest marked a turning point in his life, and he had taken steps to address his addiction.

Sentencing him to two years and eight months in prison, Judge Paul Thomas KC said the offending “went well beyond funding your own addiction” and showed Jones was willing to take risks for profit.

A JOHNSTON man has been fined and disqualified from driving after admitting to drink driving on the same day he appeared in court.

Stefan Banica, aged 21, of Woodlands View, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), where he pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol earlier that day.

The court heard that Banica was found to be over the legal alcohol limit

while driving a motor vehicle.

The bench, chaired by Mrs C Kendrick and including Mrs A TaylorJones and Mrs J Morris, imposed a £500 fine, ordered him to pay £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service, and a £50 victim surcharge. He was also disqualified from driving for 12 months. Banica was represented by Fenn Richards, with Dennis Davies prosecuting for CPS Wales.

Luke

aged 33, of Maes Morfa,

Port issues urgent statement following laser incident

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has issued an urgent public statement about the serious risks and legal consequences associated with targeting vessels on the Milford Haven Waterway with lasers.

The Port said: “On the evening of April 6, two vessels, outbound from Carr Jetty towards Wear Spit, were targeted by a green laser light. The source of the laser is believed to have been from a vehicle in the Llanreath Car Park.

“Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, but the reckless act put the safety of the crew and the vessel at risk.

“Laser attacks on vessels are extremely dangerous. A laser directed at the wheelhouse windows of a vessel can momentarily blind or disorient the crew, compromising their ability to navigate safely. In safety-focused environments such as the Milford Haven Waterway, where vessels operate in close proximity to each other, even a brief distraction can have serious consequences.

“Targeting a vessel with a laser is a criminal offence under UK law, and any individuals caught using lasers to target vessels could face prosecution.”

Mike Ryan, Harbourmaster and Marine Director at the Port of Milford Haven said: “Laser attacks not only endanger the crew on board but also pose significant threats to the safety of other vessels, the public, and the environment.

“We urge the public to be aware of the significant risks associated with lasers pointing at vessels, and to report any suspicious activity to the local authorities immediately. Ensuring the safety of those operating on the

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Milford Haven Waterway is a shared responsibility, and we all play an important part in keeping it safe for everyone.”

in the United Kingdom, it is a criminal offence to shine or direct a laser beam towards oil tankers or any other vessels at sea if it dazzles or distracts, or is likely to dazzle or distract, the person in control of the vessel. This is stipulated under the Laser Misuse (Vehicles) Act

Milford man banned from roads after driving with drugs in system

A MILFORD HAVEN man has been banned from driving after being found with cannabis and a cocaine derivative in his system.

Joshua Stephens, 34, was stopped by police on October 1 while driving along Thornton Road in Steynton.

“There were no aggravating features with his driving—this was simply a routine check,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

A roadside drugs wipe tested positive, and further blood tests at the police station showed Stephens had 6.2 micrograms of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol and 551 micrograms of benzoylecgonine in his system. The legal limits are 2 and 50 respectively.

Stephens, of Marble Hall Road, pleaded guilty to both charges of driving over the drug-driving limit. He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“This is a person with extreme

personal difficulties,” said Mr Lloyd.

“He’s autistic and would use his car to go out whenever he was feeling low.

On this particular day, he had taken the Class A drug some time before, so it wasn’t an immediate decision to drive.”

Mr Lloyd added that Stephens uses cannabis to manage his health issues but “realises that it’s illegal.”

Probation officer Julie Norman told the court that Stephens is a regular user of cocaine.

“He has used it since the death of his mother in 2020,” she said. “He’s tried to access local support, but it’s not been available. He now needs additional help from probation services, particularly with DDAS (the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service).”

Stephens was handed a 12-month community order with ten rehabilitation activity requirement days, including work with DDAS. He was also disqualified from driving for 17 months and ordered to pay an £80 fine, £85 in costs, and a £114 court surcharge.

2018, which encompasses all modes of transport, including ships.

The Act specifies that a person commits an offence if they shine or direct a laser beam towards a moving or ready-to-move vehicle (which includes vessels) in a manner that dazzles or distracts, or is likely to dazzle or distract, the individual operating the vehicle. Offenders can face penalties of up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.

This legislation was introduced in response to increasing concerns about

the dangers posed by laser pointers to the safety of various modes of transport, including maritime vessels. The law aims to deter individuals from engaging in such hazardous activities by imposing stringent penalties.

The Port of Milford Haven said it would like to thank the local police for their prompt response and ongoing vigilance in patrolling the area to ensure the safety of all waterway users.

The public are urged to report any incidents or suspicious activity to Dyfed Powys Police on 101.

Boxer sentenced for knife offence

A PROFESSIONAL bare-knuckle boxer has been sentenced by magistrates after being caught with a lock knife in a public place.

Police officers became suspicious of a vehicle parked on the A4076 in Johnston on the night of February 28 when they noticed its windows had steamed up. Inside, they found Luke Steele, who was sitting in the passenger seat.

“When he was told he was going to be searched, he admitted possessing the herbal cannabis, but he made no mention of the lock knife,”

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

However, during a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers found the knife concealed in the pocket of the passenger door. The court heard this was Steele’s fourth knife-related offence.

His solicitor, Molly Turner, told magistrates that Steele had forgotten the knife was in his pocket after finishing a roofing job earlier that day.

“He handed over the cannabis but placed the knife in the door pocket,”

she said. “He denies that it was for selfdefence or to protect himself, and he is remorseful for his actions.”

Ms Turner said a custodial sentence would negatively impact Steele, who is the father of a ten-month-old child.

“It would also affect his young son, as well as his career as a bare-knuckle boxer. He’s worked hard to reach the professional level,” she added.

“He’s stayed out of trouble for almost two years and is doing his best to turn his life around.”

Steele, 25, of Park Villa, Cross Street, Whitland, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and to possessing 2.4 grams of herbal cannabis.

Magistrates sentenced him to six months in custody, suspended for two years. He must complete 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and carry out 100 hours of unpaid work. Steele was also ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £154 victim surcharge. A forfeiture and destruction order was made for the knife and the cannabis

Teaching assistant forced to act after child left in locked toilet for hours

A CLASSROOM assistant used a 20p coin to unlock a toilet cubicle and check on a young boy who had been inside for several hours without food or water, a professional standards hearing has heard.

The incident occurred at Waldo Williams Primary School in Haverfordwest on May 22, 2023, when a pupil, referred to as Child A, shut himself in the toilet to avoid attending a school assembly. He remained in the cubicle from around 11:00am until after 3:00pm, according to teaching assistant Samantha Thomas, who gave evidence to the Education Workforce Council on Monday (April 8).

Mrs Thomas said she repeatedly checked on the child, asking if he needed anything to eat or drink, but he did not respond. She eventually used a coin to release the door mechanism and partially open the door, which opened inwards. Inside, she saw the child sitting in the small cubicle—approximately two metres

square—which contained a toilet, basin and, unusually, a chair.

Despite her concerns, Mrs Thomas said she was instructed by class teacher Sally Berry not to interact with the child while he remained in the cubicle. Mrs Berry allegedly told her the boy’s behaviour plan required minimal stimulation and that he should be left to calm himself.

However, under questioning, Mrs Thomas said she did not see Mrs Berry personally check on the child during that time, aside from overhearing her say, “Are you alright, buddy?” at one point. She also confirmed that although the door was closed, she knew it could be opened using the slot-lock from outside.

The panel heard that the child often used the toilet as a “safe space” and had not wanted to attend assembly that day. But former headteacher Cora O’Brien, who had worked closely with Mrs Berry before retiring, said that if such an incident had happened during

Motorcyclist airlifted with serious injuries after A40 roundabout crash

A MOTORCYCLIST has been airlifted to hospital with injuries described as “potentially lifechanging” following a crash on a roundabout in Pembrokeshire.

The collision, involving a motorbike and a car, occurred shortly before noon on Saturday (Apr 5) on the A40 roundabout connecting the A40 with Fishguard High Street.

Emergency services including DyfedPowys Police, the Wales Ambulance Service, Wales Air Ambulance, and two crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “One person was airlifted to hospital with injuries believed to be potentially life-changing. The road remained closed while the vehicles were recovered and reopened just before 3:30pm.”

A fire service spokesperson said that crews from Fishguard and Haverfordwest responded to the incident. They said: “This incident required a multi-agency response, with Dyfed-Powys Police, the Ambulance Service and the Air Ambulance also in attendance.

“Fire service crews remained on scene to make the vehicle safe and assist with traffic management. Crews left the scene at 1:51pm.”

A spokesperson for Wales Air Ambulance added: “Our Dafen-based crew were allocated at 12:12 and attended via air. We arrived at the scene at 12:39 and our involvement concluded at 1:30pm.”

The Herald understands the motorcyclist was treated at the scene before being flown to hospital for further care.

her leadership, it would have triggered serious safeguarding concerns and the senior management team would have been alerted immediately.

Debbie Williams, who was the acting headteacher at the time of the incident, told the hearing she had not been informed about the situation until near the end of the school day. She confirmed that senior leaders were unaware the child had been in the cubicle for such a long

period.

The panel is considering a number of allegations against Mrs Berry. These include claims that she:

• Allowed the pupil to remain in the toilet for more than three hours;

• Failed to provide proper guidance to teaching assistants about how to respond in line with the child’s behavioural support plan;

• Did not ensure the child was supervised over the lunch break;

• Failed to notify senior staff or the pupil’s parents in a timely manner;

• Misrepresented how often she had checked on the child;

• Submitted a behaviour report containing inaccurate information.

Mrs Berry is also accused of a separate safeguarding failure involving another child, referred to as Child X, in January 2023. She allegedly did not report a threatening comment made by the pupil to the school’s Designated Safeguarding Person or to the local authority’s Child Care Assessment Team in a timely manner.

The hearing continues.

St Ishmaels man denies strangulation and assault

A ST ISHMAELS man has denied a series of serious offences, including intentional strangulation, assault and criminal damage, and has been remanded on conditional bail.

Philip Stoddart, aged 58, of Monkhill Farm, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), facing four charges relating to an incident on April 4, 2025.

The charges include:

• Intentional strangulation, contrary to section 75A(1)(a) of the Serious

Crime Act 2015.

• Two counts of assault by beating.

• Criminal damage to property valued under £5,000.

Stoddart pleaded not guilty to all four charges.

Magistrates, chaired by Mrs C Kendrick, with Mrs A Taylor-Jones and Mrs J Morris adjourned the case for a future hearing, and Stoddart was granted conditional bail.

The defence was provided by Mike Kelleher, with Dennis Davies prosecuting for the CPS.

Fishguard man fined after failing to comply with community order

A FISHGUARD man who was previously convicted of driving while disqualified and drug driving has been fined after breaching a community order.

Kevin Walters, aged 34, of Garnlas, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7) where he admitted the breach.

The court heard that Walters failed to attend an office appointment on January 2 and missed a scheduled unpaid work session on March 2, despite a community order made on July 30, 2024.

The original offences related to an incident on December 8, 2023, at Little Milford Car Park in Freystrop. Walters was found to be driving a silver BMW 520i on Pembroke Road while over the legal limit for cannabis, disqualified from driving, uninsured, and in possession of 3g of cannabis the following day while in custody.

Magistrates revoked the original order and fined Walters £40 for the breach, with an additional £60 in costs. A collection order was made and the fine consolidated with an existing account.

Milford Haven man given conditional discharge for damaging property

A MILFORD HAVEN man has been given a conditional discharge after admitting to damaging property in the town.

Kyle Allerton, aged 26, of no fixed abode, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), where he was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of criminal damage. The offence occurred on October 12, 2024, and involved damage to property valued under £5,000. Details of the incident were not disclosed in open court.

Magistrates imposed a conditional

Man admits assaulting emergency workers and carrying weapon

A MILFORD HAVEN man has admitted assaulting emergency workers and possessing an offensive weapon during an incident in the town last month.

Adam Williams, aged 38, of Richard John Road, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), where he faced five charges relating to events on March 16, 2025.

Williams pleaded guilty to:

• Three counts of common assault on emergency workers,

• Possession of an offensive weapon in a public place,

• Using a motor vehicle without thirdparty insurance.

All five offences occurred on the

same date and involved police attending a disturbance in Milford Haven.

The court heard that Williams was found in possession of the weapon and assaulted three emergency workers during the incident. He was also found to be driving without valid insurance.

The bench, chaired by Mrs C Kendrick and sitting with Mrs A TaylorJones and Mrs J Morris, noted the seriousness of the offences, which were aggravated by the victims’ status as emergency service personnel.

Dennis Davies prosecuted on behalf of CPS Wales (South West), and Jess Hill appeared for the defence.

The weapon was ordered to be forfeited and destroyed. Williams was also ordered to pay costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.

The case was adjourned for sentencing.

Dock man given suspended sentence for assaults and drunken behaviour

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has been handed a suspended prison sentence after breaching a community order imposed for a series of violent and alcohol-related offences.

discharge and ordered Allerton to pay costs to the Crown Prosecution Service. The case was heard by a bench consisting of Mrs C Kendrick (Chair), Mrs A Taylor-Jones, and Mrs J Morris, with Tom Lloyd appearing as defence solicitor and Dennis Davies prosecuting on behalf of the CPS.

In a related matter, a separate charge of theft in a dwelling was dismissed after no evidence was offered by the prosecution.

Additional charges of assault and affray were also dismissed or discontinued.

Ashley Anthony Mardon, aged 36, of The Inbetween Guest House, Pembroke Dock, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7) where the court dealt with multiple breaches and re-sentenced him for the original offences.

Mardon was originally convicted on September 10, 2024, for a string of offences committed on July 28 and September 8, 2024. These included:

• Assaulting by beating

• Threatening to damage her property at Clarence Street, Pembroke Dock.

• Being drunk in a public place while in charge of a child under the age of seven.

• Using violence to gain entry to a

property while knowing someone inside was opposed to entry.

The court heard that Mardon had shown a flagrant disregard for court orders, committing multiple offences while already under supervision. However, magistrates noted recent engagement with probation services and deemed there was a realistic prospect of rehabilitation. He was sentenced to 20 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months. During this period, Mardon must complete:

• 200 hours of unpaid work within 12 months.

• A 26-day accredited programme.

• Up to 20 rehabilitation activity days as directed by probation.

Magistrates warned that any further breaches could result in activation of the suspended sentence.

Man admits stalking and bail breaches

A BROAD HAVEN man has pleaded guilty to stalking and to breaching his bail conditions on two occasions. He has denied a separate charge of criminal damage and is due to be sentenced later this month.

Thomas Jones, aged 34, of Croft Road, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Apr 7), where he was dealt with for multiple offences involving the same female complainant.

Jones admitted stalking the compliant between December 5, 2024, and January 22, 2025, in Milford Haven. The court heard that he visited her address several times, sent over 100 calls and messages in a short period in December, and left both a parcel and an envelope containing a spa voucher.

He initially denied the stalking charge, but changed his plea to guilty on March 17. The offence falls under Section 2A of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

Jones has denied a charge of criminal damage alleged to have occurred on July 21, 2024, when he is accused of damaging a door, radiator, cat litter tray and scratch post belonging to the compliant . He pleaded not guilty to this allegation on January 24.

The court also heard that Jones was

arrested twice in March for breaches of bail. On March 22, he missed a curfew condition by returning home five hours late. The following day, on March 23, he allegedly contacted the compliant directly, in breach of an order prohibiting contact. He admitted both breaches, though those matters were formally recorded as having been dealt with at an earlier hearing.

The magistrates’ bench was chaired by Mrs C Kendrick, sitting with Mrs A TaylorJones and Mrs J Morris. Dennis Davies appeared for the Crown Prosecution Service, and Jones was represented by Fenn Richards.

Jones has been remanded on conditional bail until his next hearing on April 22, 2025, at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. Bail conditions include:

• Not to contact the compliant directly or indirectly, except via an approved device for child contact purposes,

• Not to enter Milford Haven,

• To reside and sleep each night at 38 Croft Road, Broad Haven.

A pre-sentence report is being prepared ahead of the hearing.

Pub assault trial set for August

A MAN accused of attacking another man at a pub in Pembroke Dock will face trial later this year.

Stuart York, aged 60, of Wellington Street, Pembroke Dock, appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with unlawful wounding following an incident at The Prince of Wales pub on May 30, 2023.

It is alleged that York pushed a man

and caused grievous bodily harm to the back of his head.

He pleaded not guilty.

The court heard that York denies being the man seen on CCTV footage of the incident, claiming he was barred from the premises at the time and did not drink alcohol.

Judge Huw Rees set a trial date for August 21. York was granted bail.

Who ‘r’ you kidding? Narberth sign leaves residents fuming

Narberth – with two r’s – is a town that enjoys a glorious history with its origins dating way back to medieval times.

And its top-ranking journey continues on into the 21st century with its string of top class independent shops, delicatessens, gastro pubs and Michelinstarred restaurants. To cut a long story short Narberth -with two ‘r’s – is a jewel in Pembrokeshire’s glittering crown.

But despite its deep rooted stature, it looks as if the town could be regarded as a poor relation after being labelled on a new road sign as Narbeth – with one solitary ‘r’.The sign has been erected on a section of the A40, which has been undergoing major road improvements since the summer of 2021.

The error has prompted widespread concern with locals, who are now calling on the South Wales Trunk Road Agent to correct its error.

“Everything about the road is wrong, not only the spelling on the sign,” commented local resident Carl Peters.

“Surely someone working for the main contractor should have spotted the mistake.

“And how much is it going to cost to fix the problem? Will this mean another £5k on next year’s council tax, all because of the government’s incompetence?”

And this isn’t the only error that has been spotted on the A40. A sign adjacent to a temporary set of traffic lights tells people to ‘Wait here’, which has been translated into Welsh as ‘Argoswch yma’; the Welsh translation should read ‘Arhoswch yma’.

Meanwhile a brown tourist sign has been erected directing people to the Oakwood Theme Park, despite an announcement of its closure several weeks ago.

Elsewhere in Wales, workers painted the word ‘shcool’ outside a primary school in Llangyfelach, near Swansea, while its Welsh equivalent was written as ‘ysool’, instead of ‘ysgol’.

Because the A40 is a trunk road, the responsibility for road signage lies with

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

the Welsh Government, but it delegates the maintenance and operation of the trunk roads to the South Wales Trunk Road Agency.

Construction of the long-anticipated bypass around Llanddewi Velfrey began in summer 2021 and work is now entering its final stages, following the Welsh Government’s confirmation that the new road will open the week beginning April 28.

The scheme is being delivered on behalf of the Welsh Government by Alun Griffiths Contractors Ltd.

Although the final cost has yet to be announced, the project was originally estimated at £60 million, including £45 million from EU funding.

Meanwhile the South Wales Trunk Road Agent has informed The Pembrokeshire Herald that the matter

Man denies GBH assault on expartner’s 70-year-old grandfather

A MILFORD HAVEN man has appeared in court accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm on his ex-partner’s 70-year-old grandad.

Tommy Davies, 26, is alleged to have assaulted Brian Johnson outside his home on Pill Road, Milford Haven, on June 20, 2024.

The Crown alleges that following an argument, Davies pushed the pensioner, causing him to fall and hit his head on a kerb. Mr Johnson reportedly sustained a haematoma and abrasions to his head, which required hospital treatment.

Davies appeared before

Haverfordwest magistrates this week and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The court heard the incident occurred when Mr Johnson visited the defendant’s home to collect a pram.

“He became aggressive,” Davies told the court. “He was in my face, and when he raised his fist, I pushed him off. He then fell over.”

Davies was granted conditional bail ahead of a trial scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on June 19.

He must not contact Mr Johnson or Mrs Julie Johnson and must not enter Hubberston while on bail.

has now been forwarded to Welsh Government’s Strategic Road Network Division for further consideration.

Former police CCTV operator appearing at Crown Court over misconduct charges

A FORMER Dyfed-Powys Police CCTV operator is appearing at Swansea Crown Court today (April 7) for a plea and directions hearing, facing charges of controlling and coercive behaviour, along with offences under the Data Protection Act and Computer Misuse Act.

Russell Hasler, who was arrested in 2023 by the force’s Professional Standards Department, had worked as a CCTV operator since 2019. He resigned

from his post while under investigation for alleged offences said to have taken place between 2020 and 2022.

He was previously charged at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on March 5, 2025, and committed to the Crown Court for further proceedings.

The Herald understands that legal directions will be set today, with a trial date expected to be scheduled later this year.

Hasler remains on court bail.

No jail for Camrose man caught in child abuse sting

A CAMROSE man who believed he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl online has been handed a suspended sentence after admitting sexually explicit messaging.

Phillip Jackson, aged 43, of The Causeway, was caught as part of an undercover operation by a civilian group that targets suspected child sex offenders. The group had created a fake Facebook profile posing as a teenage girl.

On September 23 last year, Jackson sent a friend request to the decoy account and told the profile he was 41. When informed that the girl was 13, he initially replied that he was too old. However, he resumed contact days later, leaving comments and starting a new conversation, which soon turned sexual in nature.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Jackson asked explicit and inappropriate questions, sent detailed sexual messages, and described acts he wished to carry out. One message included graphic language asking if the girl would like to engage in a sexual act.

encounter live online for over an hour before police arrived at the scene.

He was arrested and gave a full admission in police interview. Jackson later pleaded guilty to attempting to incite a child to engage in penetrative sexual activity and attempted sexual communication with a child.

The court was told Jackson had no previous convictions for sexual offences but had 14 prior convictions for 26 unrelated offences. His barrister, Dan Griffiths, said Jackson had been living an isolated lifestyle and was drinking heavily at the time of the offences. He said the defendant had since taken steps to change his behaviour.

The court also heard that Jackson’s mother had experienced acts of vandalism at her property following the live-streamed confrontation.

Judge Huw Rees imposed a 20-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. Jackson must complete 150 hours of unpaid work, attend 35 rehabilitation activity days, and take part in the Maps for Change programme aimed at reducing reoffending.

The group later attended Jackson’s address posing as delivery drivers. When he opened the door, they confronted him and streamed the

He will remain on the sex offenders register for 10 years and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same period.

Drug dealer caught twice in two counties

A PEMBROKESHIRE man who was caught dealing cocaine, cannabis and nitrous oxide in Hampshire was arrested again months later after crashing an e-bike in Milford Haven.

Justin Cadwell, aged 28, of Picton Close, Hakin, appeared before Swansea Crown Court on multiple drug charges committed in both Winchester

and Milford Haven.

Cadwell admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine, cannabis resin, and nitrous oxide, as well as two counts of possession with intent to supply cannabis, all relating to an incident in Winchester on August 8 last year. He also admitted possession of ketamine, although he denied intent to supply it.

He further pleaded guilty to possessing criminal property – £25.3k in cash – on the same date, and to being concerned in the supply of cannabis between December 1, 2023, and August 9, 2024.

Cadwell was later involved in a crash on an e-bike at Hakin Point, Milford Haven, at around 7:00pm on March 1. His passenger was airlifted to hospital following the collision with a wall.

Police arrested Cadwell at the scene and later charged him with possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis. He denied possessing £588.63 in cash as criminal property, but the prosecution confirmed no trial would be sought on that charge. Cadwell also admitted riding the e-bike without insurance.

Judge Paul Thomas KC adjourned sentencing until April 11. Cadwell has been remanded in custody until that date.

Carmarthenshire kidnap victim speaks out:

THE MUSIC producer lured to West Wales and brutally assaulted in a staged kidnap plot has spoken publicly for the first time, telling The Guardian of the terror he faced and the long road to recovery.

Itay Kashti, 45, was beaten, handcuffed, and left bleeding in a remote cottage in Carmarthenshire in August 2024, after being tricked into travelling from London for what he believed was a professional music camp. He said he feared he would never see his wife or children again.

“I thought: ‘This is it. I’m going to die and this is the end of my story.’ I felt it was the final scene from a movie. I was thinking about my children,” he told The Guardian’s Steven Morris in an emotional interview.

Three men – Faiz Shah and Mohammad Comrie, both 22, and Elijah Ogunnubi-Sime, 20 – were each sentenced last week to eight years and one month in custody after admitting kidnap at Swansea Crown Court.

The court heard the group deliberately targeted Mr Kashti because they believed he was wealthy and, according to the judge, possibly because of his Jewish heritage. “I was stigmatised and dehumanised,” said Mr Kashti. “The assumption was that a rich Jew lives in London, works in music, he must have money.”

He described how the men had posed as representatives of a music label and invited him to a songwriting camp in Wales. At first, the offer seemed legitimate. “They sounded a little bit green but they didn’t sound suspicious in any way,” he said. “The arrangement was that they would send a car to pick me up. They did mention I didn’t have to bring anything, but I took my Martin

acoustic guitar.”

Upon entering the cottage in Llanybydder, he was ambushed. “Three guys, all masked, jumped at me and started hitting and kicking me on the head,” he said. “They said they were going to kill me. They chained me, handcuffed me to a pipe that came out of the radiator.”

Bloodied and terrified, he lay on the floor trying to make sense of what had happened and why. “I live a peaceful life and I’m not a political person. There was no reason to go for a person like myself.”

He later learned the attackers had panicked and fled. Using sheer determination, Mr Kashti freed himself, grabbed his phone – and his guitar –and escaped. “I didn’t want to leave the guitar. I dragged it along,” he said, showing bloodstains still visible on the case.

He hid in bushes and called his wife and police. Officers arrived within 20 minutes and launched a major operation, eventually finding the three men hiding in fields nearby. The response included a helicopter and specialist search teams.

Mr Kashti, originally from Israel and now a UK citizen, was left with serious facial injuries. His eyes were so swollen that he said he looked like a boxer after a brutal match. Doctors in Wales and at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London helped with his physical recovery.

But the emotional scars are taking longer to heal. “We all have a safety bubble. And that safety bubble has been burst for me,” he said. “When new people reach out, I have to be more vigilant. I’m more conscious of trouble that could emerge, danger that could happen. I guess it’s going to take me

Man fined after missing drug support appointment

DESPITE repeated calls with the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service (DDAS) following the discovery of Class A cocaine in his system, a Haverfordwest man was fined this week after failing to attend an initial support assessment.

Matthew Whelton, 55, of Augustine Way, Haverfordwest, was due to attend the DDAS assessment on February 20 but failed to show up.

“When spoken to by officers about the reasons for his failure to attend, he told them he was all f***** up in his head,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday, after Whelton pleaded guilty to the offence.

Defence solicitor Michael Kelleher said Whelton had become confused due to the process.

“This is a new system used by the police,” he explained. “When arrested, the defendant was asked to provide a

sample which was analysed. If drugs are found, the individual is referred to DDAS for an initial appointment.

“The defendant had several conversations with DDAS, discussed his situation, and was offered a couple of appointments. However, time lapsed and he became very confused about what was going on.”

Magistrates fined Whelton £80 and ordered him to pay £85 in costs and a £32 victim surcharge.

‘I thought I was going to die’

some time until I feel fully settled.”

Mr Kashti said most people didn’t know what he had been through. “You can’t just break it in a conversation and move on.”

Despite everything, he holds no hatred for his attackers. “I hope that the jail experience will turn them into better people. If they do turn into better people, then it was worth locking them up.”

His bravery in speaking out has been praised by supporters, including members of the Community Security

Trust (CST), who have supported him since the attack. Police have also recognised his strength throughout the investigation and trial process. The Herald understands the gang hoped to extort a million-pound ransom, though the plot quickly unravelled. The case has shocked both the music industry and the wider community, with many calling for greater awareness of the risks posed by online impersonation and targeted hate crimes.

Driver claims he took legal CBD after testing positive for THC

A HEMP user has appeared in court after claiming a legally purchased CBD product caused him to test positive for an illegal drug.

Daren Bradbury, 54, from Seven Steps Road in Sageston, told police he had taken cannabidiol (CBD), a substance derived from the hemp plant and sold legally in the UK. However, blood tests revealed that he had 2.3 micrograms of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in his system — just over the legal limit of 2mcg.

THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes intoxication and remains a controlled substance under UK law.

“He received the CBD from the internet, believing it didn’t contain THC,” said Bradbury’s solicitor, Michael Kelleher, when the case was heard at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“He handed the packet to the police

and was surprised that the test came back positive — albeit only 0.3mcg over the limit.”

Bradbury was stopped by officers on December 4 while driving on the A477 at Milton. A roadside test proved positive, and subsequent analysis confirmed the presence of THC.

He pleaded guilty to the drug driving offence, but Mr Kelleher requested an adjournment to gather further evidence from the CBD supplier.

“We would like to raise a ‘special reasons’ argument as to why the defendant should not be disqualified from driving,” he said. “We hope to obtain proof from the vendor that the CBD should not have contained THC, as the defendant believed it was perfectly legal.”

Mr Kelleher added that CBD products can be legally purchased both online and in pharmacies.

Magistrates adjourned sentencing until May 1.

Brave survivor – Itay Kashti has spoken publicly about his ordeal for the first time

Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Constable to retire after 25 years’ service

DR RICHARD LEWIS has announced his retirement as Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police, bringing a 25-year policing career to a close.

The force, which serves Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and Powys, will now begin the search for his successor.

Chief Constable Lewis, who was born and raised in west Wales and has worked across all four counties, described leading the force as “the professional privilege of my life.”

He said: “I have nothing but fond memories of working in this fantastic force, and in policing. It has been a real honour to work alongside PCC Dafydd Llywelyn, a true leader and nationally important figure in Wales who has invested so much in the development of Dyfed-Powys and the safety of its communities.

“I have every confidence that whoever is appointed the next Chief Constable will continue the force’s positive trajectory, which led us to cutting crime by 18% over the past 12 months – by some distance the biggest cut in crime anywhere in England and Wales.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Following the announcement, Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn paid tribute to Dr Lewis, praising his leadership during a period of major change.

Mr Llywelyn said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis for his service and dedication to DyfedPowys Police.

“His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the force through significant transformation over the last three years, ensuring we continue to provide an effective and efficient policing service to our communities.

“During his tenure, Dr Lewis has overseen a major force review, delivering essential reforms that achieved £10 million in savings. He has also modernised the force’s infrastructure, including the introduction of a new crime records management system – a critical step in addressing HMICFRS concerns about data integrity.”

Deputy Chief Constable Ifan Charles will act as temporary Chief Constable until a permanent appointment

Mr Llywelyn added: “On behalf of the people of the Dyfed-Powys area, I thank Richard for his service and commitment and wish him every success for the future.”

The Commissioner confirmed that the process to appoint a new Chief Constable will begin in the coming weeks.

is made.

Baby number two on the way for critically endangered rhino at Folly Farm

PREGNANCY is always a reason to celebrate, but when it involves a critically endangered species like the Eastern black rhino, it’s truly something special. The team at Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire is excited to announce that Dakima, their beloved rhino, is expecting her second calf—and the news has everyone at the zoo thrilled.

In the wild, Eastern black rhinos are solitary creatures, each occupying their own space. At Folly Farm, however, the rhinos reside in the Kifaru Reserve, which allows the keepers to carefully manage their breeding programme. Dakima shares her enclosure with her mate Nkosi, and the pair have been given a series of planned ‘date nights’ to increase the chances of another breeding success.

So, how exactly do keepers confirm a rhino pregnancy? No, they don’t ask Dakima to take a pregnancy test! Instead, the team uses a more scientific approach. Stool samples are collected and sent to a specialist lab at Chester Zoo, where experts analyse her hormones. The results have shown a clear increase in Dakima’s hormone levels, and with her steady weight gain, the team is optimistic that a calf is on the way. They predict that Dakima is already several months into her 15-16 month pregnancy, with the calf expected to arrive around November.

Dakima, who is now 12 years old, gave birth to her first calf, Glyndwr, in January 2020, just before the pandemic began. Glyndwr has since moved to Flamingo Land, a fellow animal park, to continue the breeding programme for this critically endangered species. His move marked a significant milestone in the zoo’s efforts to support the survival of Eastern black rhinos.

When Dakima and Nkosi first arrived at Folly Farm in 2015, the Eastern black rhino population in the wild was dangerously low, with fewer than 650 individuals remaining. Thanks to the dedication of conservationists worldwide, the situation has improved dramatically. The population of wild rhinos has more than doubled, with nearly 1,400 rhinos now roaming freely, and about 85 Eastern black rhinos in European zoos.

“This is a really exciting time for us,” said Alan Keeling, zoo manager. “Although it’s still early, we’re hopeful we’ll be celebrating another breeding success. It’s the ultimate goal for any zookeeper to help raise awareness of the challenges these animals face and to play a part in increasing their numbers, both in captivity and

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

eventually in the wild.”

Dakima’s excellent care of her first calf, Glyndwr, has set high hopes for this pregnancy. Glyndwr was named

in honour of Folly Farm’s Founding Director, Glyn Williams, and the zoo team are confident that Dakima will prove to be just as wonderful a mother the second time around.

“Dakima has always been calm and steady, and she seems to be

adjusting well to her pregnancy,” Alan added. “We’ll continue to monitor her closely, ensuring she gets all the care she needs, including plenty of comfortable bedding to help her stay relaxed as she moves through the final months of her pregnancy.”

Split opinion over Cardigan’s extended pavements

CARDIGAN town councillors remain divided over the future of the town’s extended pavements, which were introduced by Ceredigion County Council during the Covid-19 pandemic as a safety measure.

Calls for the removal of the pavements were made last month, with several members describing them as an unwelcome reminder of lockdowns and social distancing. Councillors said the pavements had served their original purpose and were no longer needed.

However, during Tuesday night’s meeting, Cllr Richard Jones expressed support for keeping the wider pavements, describing them as a benefit to the town.

“I think they are a good thing,” he said. “They make the place look busy and give it a kind of European feel. The time for consultation is over. This was discussed at county council level, and none of our councillors attended.”

Cllr Jones was responding to a letter from former town councillor and disability rights campaigner Morvenna Dorita, who criticised the push to remove the pavement extensions. Ms Dorita, who is a wheelchair user, argued that the changes made the town safer for disabled people.

caught between the devil and the deep blue sea.”

Her view was not shared by all present. County councillor Sian Maehrlein said there were ongoing concerns from residents about the pavements.

“Word on the street is that most people want these pavements gone,” she said. “Some disabled residents have said that, because the tactile paving hasn’t been pressure-washed, it’s hard to tell the difference between the pavement and the road.

“I believe the town would be better and safer if they were removed. Whatever we decide, half the town will support it and the other half won’t. We’re

Cllr Nick Bolton also opposed the extensions, suggesting that street furniture from cafés posed more of a hazard.

“These pavements impede people’s right of passage,” he said. “If they were removed, we could fit in more delivery bays on the high street.

“The county council said they’d maintain them and make them safer, but they haven’t spent a bean.”

County councillor Clive Davies reminded members that the county

made

the pavements permanent in 2022, and any removal would now require a fresh consultation.

He added that, if the town could secure a new street scene grant, there may be scope to improve the overall layout of the high street.

“We could look at bollards to provide better protection for disabled pedestrians,” he suggested.

It was agreed to invite county council officers to visit Cardigan and assess what improvements could be made to the street scene.

council

the decision to make

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Citizen scientists celebrated at Cardigan Castle conference

CITIZEN scientists from across West Wales gathered at Cardigan Castle on Thursday (Mar 27) for a conference celebrating their work in monitoring and protecting local rivers.

The West Wales Nutrient Management Board (WWNMB) hosted the event, which brought together volunteers, environmental experts, and partner organisations to discuss the growing impact of community-led water quality initiatives.

Supported by the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) through the Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project, the conference highlighted the crucial role of improved digital infrastructure in enabling environmental monitoring.

SHOWCASING SCIENCE AND GRASSROOTS ACTION

Attendees took part in hands-on demonstrations showing how water samples are analysed, using the latest techniques to detect pollution and nutrient levels. The event also addressed the limitations of current equipment, highlighting the need for accurate, reliable data collection.

Beyond the technical presentations, the day celebrated the wide range of skills that citizen scientists contribute— from data gathering to public engagement—and explored how their work influences conservation strategies and local policies.

REGIONAL GROUPS UNITE

Volunteers from across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion—including those involved in Save the Teifi, Achub y Tywi and the Cleddau Project—shared experiences and discussed the shared challenges of river monitoring.

Angela Towler, a dedicated volunteer, said: “Being a citizen scientist is about more than just collecting data—it’s about taking action to protect the places we care about. The conference is an

example of how the NMB has helped to give citizen scientists a voice. It’s been an incredible opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about improving our rivers.”

SUPPORT FOR FUTURE PROGRESS

Councillor Clive Davies, Chair of the Nutrient Management Board and Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, praised the dedication of volunteers.

He said: “It is inspiring to see so many committed individuals working

to protect our rivers. Citizen scientists play a vital role in identifying pollution sources and providing the data needed to shape policy. Today’s event highlights the real difference their efforts are making.”

The WWNMB said it will continue to support local groups and encourage new volunteers to join the effort to restore and protect river ecosystems across the region. Their work is backed by the Welsh Government, which has funded several key initiatives in recognition of the importance of preserving the region’s natural heritage.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

The Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) Project is now looking for more volunteers in 2025. Anyone interested in testing water, checking for pollution, and learning more about environmental protection is encouraged to take part.

To explore citizen science data and dashboards, visit:

Teifi Citizen Science Monitoring and Dashboard

The TNM Project is funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund and administered by Ceredigion County Council’s Cynnal y Cardi team in partnership with the WWNMB. It is also supported by the DSIT-funded Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project. To join the Teifi Nutrient Monitoring Project, email: NMB@ carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Welsh pensioners to receive state pension increase amidst mixed reactions

STARTING this month, over 600,000 pensioners across Wales will see their State Pensions rise by up to £470 annually, following the UK Government’s adherence to the ‘triple lock’ policy. This policy ensures that pensions increase each year by the highest of average earnings growth, inflation, or a minimum of 2.5%.

GOVERNMENT’S POSITION

The UK Government has emphasized its commitment to supporting pensioners through the triple lock. In a recent statement, it was noted that this commitment would result in the State Pension increasing by up to £1,900 over the course of the current Parliament.

OPPOSITION AND THINK TANK CRITIqUES

However, the policy has faced criticism from various quarters. The Liberal Democrats have raised concerns about the real impact of the pension increase, pointing out that due to the freezing of income tax thresholds, a significant portion of the pension rise could be offset by increased tax liabilities. They estimate that a typical

basic rate tax-paying pensioner might see 77% of the pension increase negated by these tax measures. Additionally, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has questioned the sustainability of the triple lock mechanism. They argue that while

the policy aims to protect pensioners’ incomes, it may not be the most efficient approach and could lead to unpredictable fiscal burdens.

Torsten Bell, the newly appointed Pensions Minister, has previously described the triple lock as “rubbish” and advocated for its replacement with a system that aligns state pension increases with benefits for jobseekers and the long-term sick. Despite his past remarks, recent reports indicate that he is now “fully committed” to maintaining the triple lock.

ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS

Financial experts have also highlighted potential unintended consequences of the pension increase. The freezing of personal tax allowances means that some pensioners may find themselves pushed into higher tax brackets, thereby reducing the net benefit of the pension rise. This situation underscores the complex interplay between pension policies and tax regulations.

In summary, while the increase in State Pensions is a welcome development for many Welsh pensioners, it has sparked a broader debate about the effectiveness and sustainability of the triple lock policy, as well as its interaction with the broader tax system.

20 undeniable facts that prove climate change is real

1. The 10 hottest years on record have all occurred since 2010.

2. The Earth’s average temperature has risen by over 1.1°C since the late 19th century.

3. Arctic sea ice is shrinking — with summer ice extent declining by about 13% per decade.

4. The Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets are losing mass at an accelerating rate.

5. Global sea levels have risen by over 20 cm (8 inches) since 1900 — and are rising faster every decade.

6. The oceans are warming, absorbing more than 90% of excess heat from global warming.

7. More extreme weather is being recorded — including heatwaves, floods, storms and droughts.

8. The UK recorded its hottest day ever in July 2022: 40.3°C in Coningsby, Lincolnshire.

9. Pembrokeshire has experienced increased winter rainfall and more intense storms in recent years.

10. Wildfires are increasing globally, including in countries not historically prone to them — like Canada and Greece.

11. Ocean waters are becoming more acidic due to higher CO2 absorption, threatening marine life and coral reefs.

12. Spring is arriving earlier across Europe, affecting wildlife and ecosystems.

13. Glaciers are retreating on every continent, including the Alps, Andes, and Himalayas.

14. Tropical diseases like dengue fever are spreading into new regions as global temperatures rise.

15. Climate-linked crop failures are increasing food insecurity in parts of Africa and Asia.

16. Satellite data shows the Earth’s energy imbalance is growing — more heat is being trapped than released.

17. The frequency of category 4 and 5 hurricanes in the Atlantic has increased over the last 40 years.

18. Plants and animals are shifting ranges to escape warming temperatures.

19. Permafrost is thawing in the Arctic, releasing methane — a potent greenhouse gas.

20. 97% of climate scientists agree: climate change is real and caused mostly by humans.

WHILE some people in Pembrokeshire still question whether climate change is real, the evidence is stacking up — and today’s announcement about a massive floating wind farm project in the Celtic Sea shows that Wales is not only taking the issue seriously, but leading the way in tackling it.

This week, Pembroke Port in Milford Haven was shortlisted as one of seven UK ports that could play a key role in assembling giant offshore wind turbines for a project that could power over four million homes and create more than 5,000 jobs. The £1.4 billion development is part of a wider plan to harness the clean, renewable energy potential of the Celtic Sea.

It’s a vote of confidence in Pembrokeshire’s future — and a realworld example of how climate change is being addressed right here in West Wales.

THE FACTS WE CAN’T IGNORE

Canada, Nunavut Territory, Repulse Bay, Polar Bear Cub (Ursus maritimus) beneath mother while standing on sea ice near Harbour Islands

Despite online conspiracy theories and political noise, the science is clear. The planet is warming — and fast. Global temperatures have risen more than 1°C since the late 1800s. Sea levels are rising, polar ice is melting, and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense. Wales is already seeing the effects, from heavier rainfall and flash flooding to warmer winters and shifting wildlife patterns.

97% of climate scientists agree that this warming is caused by human activity, especially the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. The tiny minority who deny this often have links to fossil fuel interests or aren’t trained climate scientists at all.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR US

Here in Pembrokeshire, we’re on the front line. Coastal communities like Newgale and Dale are vulnerable to rising seas and stronger storms. Farmers face unpredictable growing seasons. Local businesses reliant on stable weather, from tourism to agriculture, are already feeling the pressure.

But Pembrokeshire is also part of the solution. Floating wind farms — like those planned for the Celtic Sea — offer clean power, skilled jobs, and energy security. Milford Haven’s port is already preparing for the future, backed by government investment and maritime expertise.

The climate is changing. Whether we “believe” it or not, it’s happening. The good news is that Pembrokeshire has a chance not just to weather the storm — but to help lead the way.

Senior policymaker’s visit highlights Haven’s strategic role for UK energy

A VISIT by a senior UK Government figure last week saw industry leaders highlight the crucial role of the Milford Haven Waterway in delivering energy, supporting jobs, and driving economic growth across the UK.

The representative met with members of the Milford Haven Energy Cluster – a partnership of key local and national stakeholders – to discuss the region’s contribution to both current energy security and future net zero ambitions.

Milford Haven is the UK’s largest energy port and handles around 20% of the country’s energy needs. It is home to major infrastructure including LNG terminals, a refinery, and a gas-fired power station, and is at the forefront of developing new clean energy projects such as floating offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture.

Industry leaders stressed the need for long-term investment in port infrastructure, grid connectivity, and workforce skills to ensure the region can meet its full potential in supporting the UK’s green energy transition.

A spokesperson for the Milford Haven Energy Cluster said: “We were pleased to showcase how Pembrokeshire is positioned to lead

national policymakers and officials to assess the UK’s evolving energy landscape.

the UK’s clean energy future. The commitment and collaboration here is real – but we need the right policy frameworks and investment to unlock our potential.”

The Herald understands the visit was part of a broader series of stakeholder engagements by

Floating wind farm boom could bring jobs bonanza to Pembrokeshire

PEMBROKE PORT in Milford Haven has been named as one of seven key UK locations in the running to support the next generation of floating wind farms in the Celtic Sea – a project that could create more than 5,000 jobs and power over four million homes.

The Crown Estate has confirmed that its Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5, which will allocate three large sites in the Celtic Sea for floating offshore wind farms, has now entered its final stage. A competitive auction is expected later this spring, with lease agreements to be signed in the summer.

All shortlisted developers have identified a list of “integration ports” where giant wind turbines – potentially as tall as The Shard in London – will be assembled on floating platforms before being towed out to sea. Among the ports named are Pembroke Port, Swansea, Port Talbot, and others across the South West of England and Brittany.

The announcement signals a major opportunity for Pembrokeshire, with Milford Haven’s port infrastructure well-placed to become a hub for renewable energy development.

In March 2024, the Welsh Government provided £1 million in funding to support ground investigation works at Pembroke Port, aimed at accelerating the site’s readiness to host floating wind turbine assembly and deployment.

The funding, which was matched by the Port of Milford Haven, marked a major step toward preparing Pembrokeshire for large-scale offshore energy infrastructure. The port’s early involvement in this sector likely strengthened its position in The Crown Estate’s shortlist.

BOOST TO ECONOMY AND LOCAL JOBS

Research by The Crown Estate suggests the wind farm development could deliver a £1.4 billion boost to the UK economy and support at least 5,300 jobs. The winning developers will also work with selected ports to secure long-term investment and regeneration benefits for local communities.

Gus Jaspert, Managing Director of Marine at The Crown Estate, said: “Developing this new technology in the Celtic Sea will open up transformational opportunities for

new jobs, investment and growth across Wales, South West England and beyond.”

Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, said: “Today’s announcement shows that Wales is ready to seize the golden opportunity of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, and secure more than 5,000 jobs and billions of pounds of investment this has the potential to bring.”

“Wales will play a key part in delivering clean power as part of our Plan for Change, boosting economic growth, lowering energy bills and putting more pounds in people’s pockets.”

The turbines – set on floating structures the size of football pitches – will be installed in deeper waters further offshore than fixed-bottom wind farms, unlocking new energy potential and minimising coastal impact.

Port plans to follow auction

Detailed discussions between developers and ports, including Pembroke Port, are expected after the auction phase. The Crown Estate is investing in supply chain acceleration and environmental surveys to reduce risk and speed up

delivery.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “By unlocking the untapped potential of the Celtic Sea we will reap the benefits of economic growth and thousands of jobs in Wales and the South West, delivering on our Plan for Change.”

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, added:

“Floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea will not only advance our clean energy goals but create valuable jobs and investment across Wales’ coastal communities.”

A FIRST STEP IN A LARGER PLAN

The three Celtic Sea sites are expected to be the first of many. The Crown Estate’s long-term vision includes leasing up to 12 gigawatts of floating wind capacity in the region by 2030, part of a broader ambition to secure up to 30 gigawatts across UK waters.

As Wales looks to the future, Milford Haven’s strategic location and maritime expertise could make it a cornerstone of the UK’s clean energy revolution.

Crown Estate report draws on Menter Môn research to support tidal energy

A NEW report from The Crown Estate highlights the latest advances in environmental monitoring for tidal stream energy, drawing on data and gathered by the Angleseybased Marine Characterisation Research Programme (MCRP). The report explores how the tidal stream energy sector is improving its understanding of the potential environmental impacts of devices such as turbines, with a focus on how they interact with marine wildlife, including movement patterns and habitat use.

The report brings together data from across the UK, including a major contribution from the MCRP, which was developed alongside the Morlais tidal energy scheme in north Wales. It covers key areas such as collision risk, displacement of species and the range of monitoring tools being used at tidal sites — helping to support future development.

Helen Roberts, Project Lead at MCRP, said: “It’s great to see the work we’ve led in Wales helping to inform

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

thinking at a UK level. The MCRP has brought together industry, researchers and regulators to build a clearer picture of how tidal stream devices interact with the environment – and this report reflects that collaborative effort.”

The MCRP is part of social enterprise Menter Môn’s energy project portfolio and is funded by the Crown Estate and Nuclear Decommissioning Agency. It was established to support the safe deployment of tidal energy devices off the coast of Holyhead as part of the Morlais scheme.

Looking ahead, the findings in the report will help shape how data is shared and transferred across the tidal energy sector, making better use of existing evidence, cutting duplication and promoting progress within the sector.

Read the full report here: https:// lnkd.in/eKXa5Yku

Recording the memories of Pembrokeshire’s war heroes

THE MEMORIES of Pembrokeshire’s World War Two veterans have been recorded in a powerful new book to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Authors Hugh Morgan and GJ Lewis have spent more than 30 years interviewing Welsh veterans of the Second World War. Their work has now been brought together in a new volume titled World War Two: Voices from Wales.

The book includes previously unpublished interviews with Pembrokeshire servicemen, including Dennis Tidswell of Pembroke, Ted Owens of Pembroke Dock, Tony Bird of Freshwater East, Duncan Hilling of Saundersfoot, and Gordon Prime of Jameston.

Among the most striking accounts is that of Mr Hilling, who served with the Welch Regiment in Japan after the atomic bombings.

“In the first few days of arriving, I drove six of us into Hiroshima to see the damage there,” said Mr Hilling, now 99. “It’s indescribable, really. We went into a hospital where people were just lying on beds. A lot of them, their skin had peeled off their faces and arms. It was a hideous sight.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

“Lots of them were blind – the bomb had blinded them when they heard this plane overhead and looked up, which was absolutely fatal, because they saw the bomb explode in midair right above them.”

Dennis Tidswell, who passed away in 2022 aged 99, took part in the Battle of Britain and the siege of

Malta. D-Day veterans Ted Owens and Gordon Prime both died in 2023, aged 98.

Tony Bird, now 101, also took part in the Normandy landings alongside his future wife, Florence Paul, who served aboard a ship relaying vital messages to the fleet. She died in the 1980s.

“My most vivid memory of the invasion was the tremendous number of aircraft flying over as

we were crossing the Channel,” Mr Bird recalled. “There were literally hundreds of aircraft going over, obviously going in to drop their troops inland, in anticipation of the invasion.”

Co-author Hugh Morgan said: “As a child growing up during the 50s and 60s, I was accustomed to living in a society of men and women who had been through the hell of WW2.

“Sadly, the veterans I knew back then are now almost all gone. But the joy and immense privilege of interviewing so many over the years has always stayed with me. Their jaw-dropping memories were so vivid and powerful.

“Our book captures the unique experiences of 50 ordinary men and women who fought and survived with enormous personal tenacity and courage to defeat the absolute tyranny of fascism.

“Reading their stories, in today’s increasingly troubling world, provides us with a clear warning from history.”

World War Two: Voices from Wales includes a foreword by Dame Siân Phillips and is published by Y Lolfa on May 8. It is priced at £12.99

Pembrokeshire projects are building success

PEMBROKESHIRE County Council’s Building Control Team is congratulating local building and design projects for success in the LABC Building Excellence Awards 2024.

The LABC Building Excellence Awards are the largest business to business awards in the building control sector.

They celebrate buildings and design teams that have overcome the challenges of complex technical and construction issues and put the spotlight on innovative and creative building work.

In Pembrokeshire, D & O Construction Ltd, Julian Bishop Architect, Redstone Architecture and AB Rogers & Son Ltd, Hayston Development & Planning Ltd all achieved success on some high profile local projects.

In the Regional LABC Building Excellence Awards 2024, Berry Lodge, Newport won the Best Residential Extension in Wales prize with work carried out by D & O Construction Ltd and with agents Julian Bishop Architect and Redstone Architecture.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Highly Commended was the development at Plas Y Castell, Llawhaden, carried out by AB Rogers & Son Ltd and Hayston Development & Planning Ltd.

The Berry Lodge development then went forward to the Grand Finals at Grovesnor House in London where the top projects across the UK were celebrated.

Council Building Control Manager

Sam Goodwin said: “Building Control is delighted to work on these projects which highlight the skill and innovation of

developers locally.

“Pembrokeshire County Council Building Control is proud to be part of LABC Awards. The Local Authority Building Control (LABC) awards were set up to celebrate excellence achieved through high building standards, technical innovation and sustainable designs.

“The Awards are an opportunity for the industry to celebrate good building practice and winners demonstrate how positive working relationships with local Council building control teams achieve high quality, sustainable buildings.

“The awards are unique because they recognise how this cooperation improves building standards and professionalism across the industry and it is great to see local contractors, agents and designers within Pembrokeshire receive recognition in achieving these standards.”

If you would like to contact Building Control at Pembrokeshire County Council, please contact Building Control via the website www.pembrokeshire. gov.uk/building-control or alternatively contact 01437 764551

Forties dance to mark end of Second World War

PEMBROKE DOCK will step back in time this summer to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with a special one-off Fortiesthemed dance.

The event, taking place on Saturday, June 21, will commemorate both VE Day and VJ Day in a night filled with 1940s fashion, music, and nostalgia. It will be held in a 400-capacity marquee at the former Royal Dockyard, generously sponsored by the Port of Milford Haven and supported by street food vendors. Organised by the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre team, the dance will also raise funds for a unique heritage project – returning the RAF Pembroke Dock Memorial Window to the town. The memorial has been on display at the RAF Museum in London for the past

30 years.

Wartime favourites will be brought to life by the renowned Phil Dando Big Band, making a welcome return to Pembroke Dock. The band, known for its Glenn Miller-era repertoire, has delighted local audiences in previous Forties dances that saw guests turn out in period fashion and vintage military uniforms.

Peter and Marilyn Mitchell, longstanding members of the Heritage Centre’s volunteer team, are already planning their outfits.

“Check out local charity shops for wartime-era fashions,” they said. “Forties fashion was stylish, and it’s surprising what you can still find today –or recreate quite easily and affordably.”

Tickets for the dance cost £25 and are available via Eventbrite, directly from the Pembroke Dock Heritage

Centre (01646 684220), or from the Pembroke Dock Town Council offices on Dimond Street.

Ground breaking event marks start of key Haverfordwest Public Transport project

KIER and Pembrokeshire County Council held a traditional ground breaking event at Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange (HPTI) last month – celebrating the official start of work on site.

Council members including the Leader Councillor Jon Harvey, Deputy Leader Councillor Paul Miller, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Councillor Rhys Sinnett and for Haverfordwest Castle ward Councillor Thomas Tudor, joined Kier for the event with the ceremonial breaking of the ground marking a key milestone in the project’s progress.

The scheme includes the construction of a modern bus station and multi-storey car park to Haverfordwest’s town centre, providing a new interchange for buses and coaches, with upgraded passenger facilities.

Designed by architects BDP and built by Kier, the completed scheme will include more than 300 parking spaces, seven bus bays, public toilets and accessible changing facilities for people with disabilities.

The project also has a number of sustainable features including electric vehicle charging facilities and an array of solar panels on the roof which will supply the vast majority of the building’s energy usage and help Pembrokeshire County Council meet their commitment to be net zero carbon by 2030.

Ian Rees, regional director at Kier Construction Western & Wales, said: “We have been on site for a number of months now undertaking essential

Pembrokeshire County Council, said:

tap exit and payment and of course a much nicer, lighter and safer environment for users.”

Architects, landscape architects and civil and structural engineers from multidisciplinary design practice BDP designed the transport interchange.

Matthew Mayes, architect director at BDP, said: “This significant regeneration scheme will be transformational for local people, offering improved access to bus, taxi and cycling facilities with excellent connectivity to the riverside, shopping centre and railway centre.

“Our designs include striking aluminium fins that wrap around the building with stone cladding at ground level to reflect the town’s historic features and a new public square with plenty of greenery and seating for people to relax.”

enabling works, this ground breaking ceremony is an important milestone as we progress into the construction phase of this vitally important transport hub.

“This transport interchange for Pembrokeshire County Council will really begin to take shape over the coming weeks and months and will ultimately deliver a much-needed, modern transport hub for the local community, improving connectivity and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.”

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of

“It’s great to see work starting on this new transport interchange, which is an important part of the wider Haverfordwest Masterplan. It’s designed to make it easy and convenient to visit Haverfordwest town centre which is a key part of our efforts to regenerate the town.

“I think we can all agree the previous multi-story car park had reached the end of its useful life.

“Once we’ve completed this project, the town centre will be easily accessible both by bus and of course by car with the car park element of the project benefiting from wider spaces, EV Charging, single

Built on the site of a demolished multistorey car park and bus station, HPTI will form part of the South West Wales Metro project, which aims to better integrate sustainable modes of transport and complements the wider regeneration work in Haverfordwest.

The design of HPTI is being funded from the Welsh Government’s Local Transport Fund.

Kier has significant experience in south-west Wales spanning over 60 years and has included the delivery of schools, hospitals and even the home of Welsh television, S4C, in Carmarthen.

This project was procured by Kier through the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework (SWWRCF).

Welsh Government unveils new legislation to transform bus services

PROPOSALS to overhaul the way local bus services are planned and delivered across Wales have been published today, with the aim of improving services for passengers and encouraging more people to use public transport.

A new Bill has been laid before the Senedd which, if passed, will grant powers to establish a fully integrated bus network that puts passenger needs first.

Key proposals include creating one network, one timetable, and one ticket system across Wales. Services will be designed based on local knowledge but coordinated nationally by Transport for Wales, working in close partnership with local authorities and Corporate Joint Committees. The new system would primarily operate through franchised contracts delivered by private, public, and third sector operators.

Welcoming the Bus Services (Wales) Bill, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said the legislation had the potential to transform bus travel for communities across the country.

“This is a historic day for public transport in Wales as proposals for bus reform begin their journey through the Senedd,” said Mr Skates. “This is about putting people first—offering one network, one timetable and one ticket across Wales.

“Change is needed. While some areas are well-served, it’s not the case everywhere. I want a bus network that is reliable, affordable, easy to use, and better integrated with other modes of transport such as trains and active travel.

“The benefits are clear: improved access to services, greater equity for those most reliant on public transport, and a meaningful alternative to car travel.”

Buses carry around 190,000 passengers a day in Wales and account for three-quarters of all public transport journeys. The Bill aims to address common barriers to bus use— such as poor reliability, lack of ticket interoperability between operators, and weak links with other transport modes.

The public will benefit from clearer, easier-to-navigate timetables and more

seamless transitions between buses and trains. Ticket revenue will be reinvested across the country, improving services in both rural and urban areas.

Mr Skates highlighted current examples of successful integration, including the TrawsCymru T1 service, which already offers joint bus and rail tickets, and the 1bws ticket in North Wales, valid on almost every local bus in the region.

“These examples show what can be achieved with joined-up thinking,” he

said. “I don’t underestimate the scale of change this Bill represents, which is why the rollout will happen region by region. But when complete, it will be truly transformational.”

The rollout is expected to begin in South West Wales in 2027, followed by North Wales in 2028, South East Wales in 2029, and Mid Wales in 2030. However, Mid Wales will benefit from earlier improvements through the Bridge to Franchising programme, already underway.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

New planning guidance to protect communities from flooding

REVISED guidance has been published to help safeguard Welsh communities from the growing risks of flooding and coastal erosion.

The updated Technical Advice Note 15 (TAN 15) outlines how the planning system can help communities avoid the impacts of flooding and build greater resilience in areas where it cannot be avoided.

Following a period of public consultation, the new TAN provides planners with a clearer framework to assess flood risks from rivers, the sea, surface water, and coastal erosion. It also includes advice on adapting to and living with flood risk as climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of such events.

Publishing the new guidance, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said:

“Recent storms have brought into sharp focus the devastating effect flooding can have on the lives and businesses of people across Wales. It can happen at any time of the year, often without significant warning, and with serious consequences.

“That’s why it’s essential the planning system fully recognises the likelihood

and potential impacts of future flooding events.”

The revised TAN 15 adopts a riskbased approach, using the Flood Map for Planning to weigh the probability of flooding against the vulnerability of different types of development.

“In essence,” Evans added, “the

higher the likelihood of flooding and the greater the vulnerability of development, the more restrictive the policy becomes.”

The guidance comes into effect immediately, with transitional arrangements in place for planning applications that are already under consideration.

Wales well placed to benefit from boost in UK defence spending

WALES is set to benefit significantly from a major increase in UK Government spending on defence, with the country already a key player in the sector through cutting-edge technology and innovation.

New figures reveal that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) spends £290 per person in Wales and directly supports over 7,700 jobs. In 2023–24, the MOD spent £914 million with industry and commerce in Wales – an increase of £86 million on the previous year.

The country’s contribution to defence was highlighted during a ministerial visit to North Wales on Thursday (Apr 3), where Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith visited

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Teledyne Qioptiq Ltd in St Asaph. The company develops advanced electrooptic technology used in defence programmes such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and Challenger 2 tanks. It also provides essential support to infantry forces through the STAS contract.

Dame Nia Griffith said:

“The defence industry is a cornerstone of our national security and economic prosperity.

“All of the MOD’s top five suppliers have a footprint in Wales, which puts us in a strong position to benefit from increased defence spending.

MIKE EDWARDS

WHEN life gives you lemons, make lemonade!

Or so the American cliche goes.

I do like the Americans’ can-do attitude. It’s refreshing. There’s nothing to beat the feeling you get by observing naive failures with an “I told you so” expression. The problem is that there are an awful lot of Yanks. For every ninety-nine who tank, one makes a fortune or invents one of those products you never knew you needed until it was invented.

Out of every hundred Americans who get given lemons and make lemonade, one will come up with a beverage that allows them to fly the world in a diamondencrusted LearJet.

“Companies like Qioptiq are not only driving innovation, but also providing high-quality jobs and contributing significantly to our local and national economy.

“The UK Government’s top priority is kickstarting economic growth. By investing in the defence sector, we safeguard national security, create new jobs, and put more money in people’s pockets.”

Peter White, Managing Director of Qioptiq, added:

“It is a privilege to continue playing our part in keeping our troops and society safe.”

Across Wales, the defence sector includes over 160 companies employing more than 20,000 people. The industry’s importance is set to grow further following the Prime Minister’s recent pledge to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027.

As part of that investment, the Chancellor confirmed in the Autumn Budget that £975 million will be allocated to the UK aerospace sector over the next five years – with £49 million already earmarked for projects in Wales.

While in North Wales, Dame Nia also visited Wagtail UK in Mostyn – an award-winning company that provides detection dogs and training services to clients including the UK Border Force, HMRC, Police, Trading Standards, and the Armed Forces.

Give one hundred Welsh people lemons to make lemonade, and you can guarantee 25 will demand a Welsh Government grant to establish a working group to investigate whether these lemons were produced in an alphabet-soupcompliant fashion. Another 25 will demand that the instructions for making lemonade be translated into englynion. Another 25 will demand we send the lemons back to where they came from. Perhaps 20 will get on with trying to make lemonade, and of them, around 15 will have trouble working out which is the squeezer and which is the lemon. Two of the remaining five will spend their time trying to commune with the lemons. Another two will demand that we go back to mining lemons to bring jobs back to former lemon mining areas. One will be a Liberal Democrat and go hunting for kumquats instead.

The one thing you can guarantee is that any beverage resulting from that process will be six times as expensive as American lemonade and taste so foul it would need to be marketed as “traditional” or “bespoke”.

This week, I took possession of several tons of metaphorical lemons.

Firstly, Mitzi the Mutt needed to go to the vet. The little fleabag (aka Mummy’s Good Little Girl) chased a cat while in the garden and managed to cut her - *ahem* - “leggy-weggy” on some chicken wire that once protected a cherry tree from squirrels. What struck me most about the vets was the air of calm competence and caring efficiency that resulted in a bill so large it would be visible from the surface of The Moon.

Secondly, the wife had the shattering news that her Uncle Emrys had died at the age of 98 while in bed with his twenty-year-old wife. They think it was his fifty-a-day lifelong habit that claimed him. That means no cigars for me until a respectful time after the funeral.

Finally, it’s the end of the financial year. I’m up to my eyes in corporation tax returns and sorting out the million-andone other bureaucratic idiocies the dreaded Revenoo insists upon. When life gives me lemons, I prefer to slice them and drown them in gin and tonic.

It’s far more fun than making lemonade.

Pembrokeshire oysters gain top UK recognition in PGI status

TWO of Wales’ finest seafood delicacies – the Pembrokeshire rock oyster and the Pembrokeshire native oysters – have officially been awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which is the UK’s mark of authenticity, regional identity and quality.

This recognition celebrates the pristine waters and rich biodiversity of Angle Bay, at the mouth of the Cleddau Estuary in Pembrokeshire where they

are grown in Class A waters surrounded by seagrass beds in a Special Area of Conservation.

The PGI recognition is a proud milestone for the partnership between oyster farmer Dr Andy Woolmer of Tethys Oysters Ltd and shellfish processor and distributor Jake Davies of Atlantic Edge Shellfish. Together,

The Pembrokeshire Rock Oysters are available all year-round and are prized for their delicate clean brine, cucumber freshness and subtle citrus notes while the Pembrokeshire Native Oysters are harvested between September and April and are known for their meaty texture, umami depth and vibrant marine overtones. And according to the experts, these really are the “oyster lover’s oyster”.

Both have won Great Taste Awards and are now being served in top restaurants across the UK, particularly in London, with growing interest from seafood connoisseurs and sustainabilityminded chefs. These include Douglas Balish, who is the Executive Chef at The Grove Hotel in Narberth.

“Pembrokeshire Native Oysters are something really special,” he said. “They have a punchy ozone flavour and an incredible crunchy texture which means they really are a true delicacy.

they manage the entire journey from seed to plate, comprising the growing, harvesting, purifying and distributing of the oysters with minimal environmental impact.

“We’re delighted that our oysters have gained PGI status,” said Dr Andy Woolmer, who is the founder of Tethys Oysters. “This is a recognition of both the unique flavour of our oysters and the sustainable way in which we farm them. And PGI now helps to protect that identity. We hope this will encourage more chefs and food lovers to discover what makes Pembrokeshire oysters so special.”

PGI status protects the name “Pembrokeshire Oysters” in law, ensuring that only oysters grown and processed in the designated area – and to the approved specification – can use the name. It safeguards the heritage and quality of this small Welsh industry, while helping customers make informed, provenance-led choices.

“This is a win for Pembrokeshire, for Wales, and for sustainable aquaculture,” said Jake Davies. “We’re proud to fly the flag for Welsh seafood and hope more people will now seek out Pembrokeshire Oysters, whether at their local fishmonger or on the best restaurant menus.”

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

Jake Davies, serving the Pembrokeshire oysters

Cosheston Garden Centre seeking permission to expand

A PARTLY-retrospective application to upgrade a garden centre on the main road to Pembroke Dock has been submitted to Pembrokeshire planners.

In the application, submitted through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, Mr and Mrs Wainwright seek permission for upgrade of a garden centre with a relocated garden centre sales area, additional parking and the creation of ornamental pond and wildlife enhancement area (partly in retrospect) at Cosheston Garden Centre, Slade Cross, Cosheston.

The application is a resubmission of a previously refused scheme, with the retrospective aspects of the works starting in late 2023.

The site has a long planning history and started life as a market garden and turkey farm in the 1980s and then a number of applications for new development.

A supporting statement says the previously-refused application included setting aside a significant part of the proposed new building for general retail sales as a linked farm shop and local food store/deli in addition to a coffee bar.

It was refused on the grounds of “the proposal was deemed to be contrary to retail policies and the likely impact of that use on the vitality and viability of nearby centres,” the statement says, adding: “Secondly, in

goods, but retaining a small ancillary coffee bar area.

noting that vehicular access was off the A 477 (T) the Welsh Government raised an objection on the grounds that insufficient transport information had been submitted in respect of traffic generation and highway safety.”

It says the new scheme seeks to address those issues; the development largely the same with the proposed new garden centre building is now only proposed to accommodate a relocated garden centre display sales area rather than a new retail sales area with other

“Additional information, in the form of an independent and comprehensive Transport Statement, has now been submitted to address the objection raised by the Welsh Government in respect of highway safety,” the statement says.

It concedes: “It is acknowledged that both the creation of the ornamental pond and ‘overspill’ parking area do not have the benefit of planning permission and therefore these aspects of the application are ‘in retrospect’ and seeks their retention.”

It finishes: “Essentially, this proposal seeks to upgrade existing facilities and offer to the general public. It includes the ‘relocation’ of a previously existing retail display area which had been ‘lost’ to the ornamental pond/amenity area and to provide this use within the proposed new building and moves away from the previously proposed ‘farm shop’ idea which we thought had merit. This revised proposal therefore involves an ‘upgrading’ rather than an ‘expansion’ of the existing Garden Centre use.”

The proposals will be considered by county planners at a later date.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

The authentic sound of The Rolling Stones.. with the world’s premier Jagger lookalike

CAPTURING the authentic sound and spirit of The Greatest Rock n’ Roll Band In The World, NOT THE ROLLING STONES have played festivals, theatres and private gigs throughout Europe, the middle east and the UK. This May, they will appear here on the Torch Stage in Pembrokeshire!

Featuring the best Mick Jagger lookalike you will ever see, truly international tribute act in demand all over Europe as well as the UK, will take you back to the Golden Age of The Stones- from Satisfaction to Sympathy for the Devil… You won’t believe it’s not Jagger!

Based on the Rolling Stones, an English rock band formed in London in 1962 and active for over six decades, they were one of the most popular, influential, and enduring

bands of the rock era and pioneered the gritty, rhythmically driven sound that came to define hard rock, and Not The Rolling Stones carry on that legacy today.

They have the unique asset of a ‘Mick and Keith’ who stagger audiences with their authenticity, also attested by the many TV and film credits they have between them.

Backed by a superb group of professional musicians that love the music they are playing; they convey their enthusiasm for the work of the world’s greatest rock and roll band.

Not the Rolling Stones will be on the Torch Theatre stage on Friday 16 May at 7.30pm. Tickets are £25. Visit the website for further details www. torchtheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Radio 3 celebrates Easter with live broadcast from St Non’s Chapel

BBC RADIO 3 will mark Easter 2025 with a special series of live broadcasts exploring themes of music, landscape, and pilgrimage— culminating in a live Easter Sunday programme from St Non’s Chapel in Pembrokeshire.

The broadcast, part of Easter: A Seasonal Journey, airs live on Easter Sunday morning (April 20), with presenter Sarah Walker joined at the ancient cliffside chapel—believed to be the birthplace of St David, the patron saint of Wales—by renowned musicians including harpist Mared Pugh-Evans, the official harpist to His Majesty the King, and Filkin’s Drift, the popular Welsh folk duo.

Set just metres from the sea near St Davids, the location provides a powerful backdrop for a programme that explores the spiritual and cultural resonance of Pembrokeshire’s rugged coastal landscape. The event follows a Holy Saturday broadcast from the island of Iona in Scotland.

The live programme runs from 9:00am to 12:00pm, and will include music, interviews and reflections from this iconic Pembrokeshire site.

Other highlights of Radio 3’s Easter programming include:

Choral Evensong from Newcastle Cathedral

SUNDAY 20 APRIL, 3:00PM – 4:00PM

A special Easter Day service featuring celebratory music by Howells, Paulus, and Vaughan Williams.

Record Review of the 21st Century

MONDAY 21 APRIL, ALL DAY

day-long celebration of the best

A

classical recordings from the past 25 years. Host Andrew McGregor is joined by guest contributors, including celebrity classical fans Stephen Fry,

Cathy Newman, and John Suchet. The day concludes with a full performance of Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony (7:30pm).

Located on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path near St Davids, St Non’s Chapel is one of the oldest Christian sites in Wales. Tradition holds it to be the birthplace of St David, Wales’ most revered saint. Today, the chapel ruins remain a place of quiet pilgrimage, with sweeping views over St Brides Bay.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

Spring has sprung, dear readers, and in the rolling, sea-spritzed hills of Pembrokeshire, Easter isn’t just a holiday—it’s a full-blown hop-era of fun. Whether you’re a beachbound bunny, an adventure-hungry chick, or a cream egg connoisseur, there’s something for every curious creature this April.

Ewe Must Be Joking: Meet the Lambs!

Start your Easter break with a fluffy dose of joy at Folly Farm or Clerkenhill Adventure Farm. It’s lambing season, which means adorable baby sheep bouncing around like little woolly popcorn. Warning: you may fall in love and want to smuggle one home. (Don’t. They nibble slippers.)

Egg-citing Adventures at the Coast

If the sea’s your jam, St David’s Peninsula is your Easter playground. Puffins are popping back to Ramsey Island like tiny feathered tourists, and the cliffs are ringing with the squawk of seabirds (some sound like they’ve had one too many chocolate eggs).

Try a wild boat ride with Thousand Islands Expeditions—but hold on to your bonnets! It’s wetter than a water balloon fight in a thunderstorm.

The Great Golden Egg Hunt Rumour has it that a Golden Egg is hidden somewhere in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Clues are sprinkled like fairy dust across local cafés and trail signs. Crack the code and win… well, eternal glory. And maybe a very large chocolate bunny. (Disclaimer: this may or may not be organised by a mysterious group of pensioners in wellies calling themselves “The Hare Force.”)

Carrots and Crafts at Carew Castle

On Easter Sunday, Carew Castle transforms into a medieval bunnyfest with storytelling, archery (safely, promise), and a carrot-themed bake-off judged by a very stern rabbit. Bonus points if you arrive in costume— historical or hare-brained.

Daffodils, Dragons & Daydreams

The wildflower meadows around Bosherston Lily Ponds are bursting with yellow daffodils like little trumpets of joy. Take a whimsical wander through the woods and spot real-life Easter magic: bluebells, butterflies, and the odd fairy door nailed into an old oak.

Don’t Forget Your Picnic

And of course, no Easter in Pembrokeshire is complete without a good old-fashioned picnic. May we recommend The Beach at Barafundle Bay, which is basically heaven with sand?

Pro tip: hide chocolate eggs in your socks to stop the seagulls nicking them. (Yes, it’s weird. Yes, it works.)

Spring into the Easter holidays with family fun

The Easter holiday promises action-packed fun in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with family-friendly activities taking place across the Park and at the Authority’s three main attractions –Carew Castle, Castell Henllys and Oriel y Parc.

The events coincide with the start of Discover National Parks Fortnight (4 to18 April), which celebrates the UK’s protected landscapes.

Carew Castle

At Carew Castle, visitors can look forward to trails, tales and plenty of medieval mischief. From Saturday 5 April to Sunday 27 April, Bunny’s Big Egg Hunt invites children to search the Castle grounds for hidden eggs using a smartphone, with a sweet reward for those who succeed. The ever-popular Horrid Histories will also return with gory stories and terrible tales of Castle life, included free with admission on weekdays at 11am from 7 to 25 April.

Those in search of adventure can take on Find the Key!, a quest to uncover four hidden keys – only one of which unlocks the Castle’s treasure chest. The challenge takes place daily at 3pm, excluding Tuesdays. On those days – 8, 15 and 22 April – the focus shifts to a Guided Family Castle Tour at 1.30pm, followed by FIRE! Launch of the Giant Trebuchet at 2.30pm, when the legendary siege engine is set into motion.

The Storymaster’s Quests: Castle of Adventure will return with immersive fantasy experiences created by Oliver McNeil and voiced by Tom Baker. Suitable for ages 6+, tickets are £6 per person, with Castle admission also applying. Dates vary. See website for further details.

To round off the fun, the Mini Easter Fair runs from 18 to 21 April, offering rides and games for younger visitors. Small charges apply.

For opening times and booking information, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Castell Henllys

At Castell Henllys Iron Age Village, families will be able to travel back in time this Easter with a mix of hands-on activities and ancient skills.

On Tuesdays 15 and 22 April, Druid Magic offers the chance to light fires, bake bread and try traditional face painting, while learning how the Druids of Iron Age Britain connected with the world around them.

Fun in the Fort on Wednesdays 16 and 23 April features a changing lineup of prehistoric crafts, while Discovery Days on Thursdays 17 and 24 April invite visitors to try something new –from ancient techniques to creative experiments inspired by the past.

A new Family Spinning Workshop on Sunday 13 April will teach the ancient art of turning fleece into yarn using a drop spindle. Sessions take place at 11am and 1.30pm. See website for booking information.

Further information can be found at www.castellhenllys.com.

Oriel y Parc

At Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre in St Davids, the focus turns to nature, creativity and seasonal celebration. Running from 12 to 27 April, the Egg Trail Adventure will invite young explorers to search the site for beautifully designed eggs inspired by local birdlife. Hands-on fun continues with two drop-in Make & Take workshops. On Wednesday 16 April, visitors can build a cosy shelter for hedgehogs in time

for Hedgehog Awareness Week. The following Wednesday, 23 April, children can create a colourful pinecone insect in the Ladybird Sanctuary Workshop.

For those looking for a deeper creative experience, a Foraged Poetry Prints Workshop with artist Bean Sawyer will take place on Thursday 24 April from 10am–1pm. Using cyanotype printing and found fragments of poetry, participants will create striking blue-toned artwork using natural materials. Booking is essential.

Visitors can also browse the St Davids and Solva Art Group exhibition from 17 to 23 April, showcasing spring-themed work by local artists, with proceeds supporting charity.

To find out more, visit www.orielyparc.co.uk.

..and beyond

Beyond the main attractions, visitors can enjoy a selection of guided walks and wildlife experiences across the wider National Park.

Bird enthusiasts can enjoy two chances to connect with the Park’s feathered residents. On Thursday 24 April, What’s That Bird? at Minwear Wood will help participants learn how to identify woodland species by sight and sound, guided by a National Park Ranger. The season concludes with a peaceful Dawn Chorus Walk on Sunday 27 April, starting from Lower Fishguard at 6am — an early morning opportunity to welcome the day to the sound of birdsong.

To plan your visit and discover more events, go to www.pembrokeshirecoast. wales/events.

Explore Welsh History This Easter

Cadw is gearing up for an exciting spring with a full schedule of events and activities planned across its historic monuments for the Easter school holidays.

Whether hunting for Easter eggs, following bunny trails, stepping back in time with medieval reenactments, or learning new skills at circus training workshops, there’s something designed for everyone over the Easter break. The events provide fun, adventure, and educational experiences to visitors of all ages.

Head of Cadw, Gwilym Hughes, said: “The Easter holidays is the perfect time for families to get out, and explore the rich history and stories right on their own doorstep. We wanted to create an action-packed schedule of events that not only helps families to enjoy quality time together but also inspires a sense of pride and curiosity about Welsh heritage.

“Children go free with any adult membership, which offers great value for families looking to make the most of multiple visits and events throughout the year. Members enjoy unlimited access to 132 historical locations

across Wales year-round, along with exclusive discounts at gift shops and similar attractions across the UK.”

Here’s a taste of what’s on offer across some of the most popular Cadw locations in west Wales this spring:

Let’s Use a Camera Easter Trail, Kidwelly Castle

Sunday 20th and Monday 21st April, 10:00-16:00

Capture the beauty of Kidwelly Castle, a Norman masterpiece overlooking the River Gwendraeth. Families will follow the trail and take photos of specific landmarks and features within the castle grounds, a perfect activity for budding photographers and history enthusiasts.

Easter Egg Fun Trail, Laugharne Castle

Sunday 20th and Monday 21st April, 11:00-16:00

Explore the enchanting Laugharne Castle for its annual Easter Egg Hunt, where visitors will search for hidden eggs scattered throughout the castle grounds and be in with a chance to win an Easter prize! Easter bonnets are welcome.

For more information about the events taking place this month, visit Cadw’s official website: www.cadw.gov.wales

A VERY HUNGRY Easter TREAT

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

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

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

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

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

“We can’t wait to welcome The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show here to the Torch Theatre. Everyone has heard of the Caterpillar or read about him and now you can see the loveable

character on the Torch stage with his friends. What better way to spend a morning or afternoon with the three performances we have on offer.”

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

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

Mad Hatter magic for Milford

The Easter festivities kick off on Good Friday (April 18) with a Mad Hatter’s Easter Egg Hunt, promising a fun-filled adventure for children and families.

On Saturday (April 19), the venue hosts a Mad Hatter’s Cocktail Tea Party, with live music from The Hideaway Trio, offering a more grown-

up twist on the Wonderland theme. The weekend culminates on Easter Sunday (April 20) with the Queen of Hearts Grand Finale, rounding off the holiday celebrations in style. For more information or to get involved, contact: enquiriesthevibe@ gmail.com

BLACK MIRROR returns

AFTER a two-year hiatus, the acclaimed anthology series Black Mirror is set to return to Netflix on April 10, 2025, delivering six new episodes that delve into the unsettling intersections of technology and society.

This season features a stellar lineup of actors, including Emma Corrin, Issa Rae,

Awkwafina, Peter Capaldi, Paul Giamatti, and Will Poulter, each bringing unique narratives that challenge our perceptions of the digital age.

Notably, the season includes a sequel to the fan-favorite episode “USS Callister,” titled “USS Callister: Into Infinity,” marking the series’ first continuation of a previous story.

As with earlier seasons, viewers can expect standalone episodes that provoke thought and discussion, reaffirming Black Mirror’s reputation for exploring the darker facets of technological advancement. All six episodes are available for streaming exclusively on Netflix now!

SKY: The Last of Us - Season 2

SKY’S critically acclaimed series The Last of Us is set to return for its highly anticipated second season on April 13, 2025, promising a deeper exploration of the gripping storylines of Ellie and Joel.

Picking up five years after the events of Season 1, the new season ventures into complex themes of revenge, forgiveness, and the frailty of human relationships set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world.

Season 2 finds Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Joel (Pedro Pascal) living in the relative safety of Jackson, Wyoming, a flourishing community of survivors. Their fragile peace, however, is shattered by a violent encounter that propels

Ellie into a relentless pursuit of vengeance. This mission leads her to cross paths with Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), a woman on her own quest for retribution following the death of her father. As their journeys intertwine, the season promises to explore the moral complexities and emotional turmoil of each character, adding layers of nuance to the narrative.

New to the cast is Isabela Merced, who portrays Dina, Ellie’s close friend and romantic interest. Dina’s presence introduces an added warmth and depth to Ellie’s personal life, offering a glimpse of humanity amidst the chaos that surrounds them.

Early reviews suggest that Season 2 is set to continue

the series’ tradition of intense performances and intricate storytelling. The characterdriven narrative, however, may divide opinion, with some critics expressing concern that the emphasis on vengeance could detract from character development. This, they argue, might challenge the viewer’s ability to remain fully engaged with the evolving arcs of Ellie and Joel.

The seven-episode season will debut on Sky, with episodes available for streaming on Now. New episodes will be released weekly, beginning on April 13, 2025, ensuring that fans are treated to a steady drip-feed of the gripping drama that has captivated audiences worldwide.

death of a unicorn

“Death of a Unicorn” is an upcoming horror-comedy directed by Alex Scharfman, featuring an ensemble cast including Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Richard E. Grant, Téa Leoni, and Will Poulter.

The film follows father and daughter, Elliot (Rudd) and Ridley (Ortega), who accidentally hit and kill a unicorn while en route to a weekend retreat hosted by Elliot’s billionaire boss, Odell (Grant). Upon discovering the

unicorn’s miraculous healing properties, Odell seeks to exploit the creature’s blood for profit, leading to unforeseen and perilous consequences as the unicorn’s kin seek revenge.

The movie blends elements of dark humor and horror, reminiscent of classic creature features. Critics have noted the film’s satirical take on corporate greed and environmental exploitation, with some praising the cast’s performances,

particularly the dynamic between Rudd and Ortega. However, reviews are mixed regarding the film’s execution, with some pointing out a lack of depth in character development and reliance on gore over substance.

“Death of a Unicorn” is scheduled for release on March 28, 2025. Fans of horrorcomedies and creature features may find this film an entertaining addition to the genre.

Superman is back this summer

SUPERMAN is back, and this time, he’s got a new look and a fresh take. James Gunn’s Superman, slated for release on July 11, 2025, promises to deliver a blend of grand science fiction and grounded character development.

The film is a reboot of the iconic superhero, drawing inspiration from the Silver Age comics while focusing on the duality of Clark Kent’s identity as an alien with human roots.

David Corenswet stars as the young Superman, torn between his Kryptonian heritage

and his Kansas upbringing. Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult steps into the role of the brilliant and dangerous Lex Luthor. Alongside Superman, fans will see other iconic DC characters like Hawkgirl, Mister Terrific, Guy Gardner, and Metamorpho, hinting at the expansive DC Universe Gunn and Peter Safran are creating.

In a surprising but heartwarming twist, Krypto the Superdog will also make an appearance, inspired by Gunn’s own mischievous pet. “He

chewed up my $8,000 laptop,” Gunn joked, “so I had to put him in the movie.”

Gunn has made the project personal, choosing to release it on his late father’s birthday. The film aims to set a new tone for DC films while still staying true to Superman’s legacy. Early footage promises a mix of spectacle and heart, with giant robots and kaiju teasing actionpacked adventure.

As anticipation builds, Superman is ready to soar once again with a story of hope, humanity, and heroism.

Tech and Taff

LET HEADS RULE THE PHONES

THERE’S been a lot of digital noise this week about whether we should have a national ban on mobile phones in schools –and once again, the real question is being ignored: who actually knows what’s best for the kids in the classroom?

England’s Children’s Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza, has come out swinging –and I think she’s spot on. She says banning phones should be a decision for head teachers, not another policy slapped down from Westminster.

Let’s be honest – most schools already have rules. According to her survey of 19,000 schools and colleges, 99.8% of primary schools and 90% of secondary schools already restrict phone use. That’s a huge majority, and clearly, heads are already taking action based on what works best for their pupils.

Primary schools are more strict – with three-quarters asking kids to hand their phones in or stash them somewhere safe. Secondary schools mostly go for the “keep it out of sight” rule – which anyone who’s tried to confiscate a phone from a 14-yearold will know is already a minefield of social tension.

What’s more, Dame Rachel’s research shows that kids are glued to their screens after school, not during it. Nearly 70% of children spend more than two hours a day staring at a screen – and nearly a quarter are clocking more than four hours. That’s not happening at break time – that’s happening in bedrooms, behind closed doors.

So where’s the real problem? It’s not in the playground – it’s in the living room. Or not in the living room, if you’re a parent who’s let their kid

disappear into a phone-shaped black hole.

Dame Rachel didn’t mince her words on that, either. She told BBC Breakfast: “Parents have to remember they are not the friends of their children. They’re there to protect their children and put the boundaries around them.” Preach.

Still, not everyone’s on the same page. The general secretary of the National Education Union reckons a national ban would take pressure off schools and create “uniformity.” That’s a fair point – some teachers are tired of constantly enforcing the rules alone. But it’s also true that what works in one school might be a disaster in another.

And here’s where it gets interesting. Dame Rachel also suggests we need more research into how restricting phones and social media could actually help kids – especially the under-16s. That’s a conversation worth having, particularly with countries like Australia already banning social media for youngsters altogether.

But let’s not fall into the trap of thinking there’s a magic fix. Tech companies still have to step up and make online spaces safer “by design,” as Dame Rachel says. And parents? Sorry folks – it’s on you to set the tone at home.

If a school bans phones, fine. If another finds a balance that works, that’s also fine. But this shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all policy. Let the heads lead. After all, they’re the ones who know their pupils best – not some Whitehall suit trying to win the next election by being “tough on TikTok.”

Until next time – keep your phones on silent, your boundaries firm, and remember: just because they’re digital natives doesn’t mean they know what they’re doing online.

Much loved ‘War Horse’ sequel comes to the Torch

Lichfield Garrick is thrilled to announce that actors Alan Booty and Jonathan Houlston will be leading the cast of their upcoming UK Tour of ‘Farm Boy,’ an adaptation of the much-loved sequel to Sir Michael Morpurgo’s ‘War Horse’.

Adapted and directed by the venue’s artistic director Daniel Buckroyd, this critically acclaimed play, which has previously toured the UK and transferred to New York, will be performing at The Torch Theatre on Thursday May 22 at 2 pm and 6 pm as part of its UK Tour.

‘Farm Boy’ is Michael Morpurgo’s sequel to his beloved masterpiece, ‘War Horse’. Set on the farm where he lives in Devon, and based on the real people he has encountered, this heartwarming and compelling narrative pays homage to the generation who fought in the First World War, the world they came home to and how that conflict affected them.

In a recent conversation with Buckroyd, which is available to view on the Garrick website, Morpurgo spoke about how technology is interrupting relationships between older and younger people and how grandparents and grandchildren spend less time sharing stories. Lichfield Garrick hopes that its production of ‘Farm Boy’ can bring families together to share this story that seems to resonate so strongly across the generations.

Alan Booty plays Grandpa and his career includes productions at the National Theatre, Chichester Festival Theatre and with a host of regional and touring theatre companies, as well as on TV and film. Roles have ranged from King Lear at Brockley Jack Theatre in 2019 to Hermann in a recent criticallyacclaimed run of his own play ‘The Loaf’ with Pogo Theatre. Alan is thrilled to be reclaiming his role and is looking forward to bringing the amazing stories that Grandpa recounts to life for family audiences.

Jonathan Houlston plays Grandson. A recent Royal Birmingham Conservatoire graduate, he has already built up a wealth of stage experience, having played Sidney Barnsley in ‘The Making of Lucy’ and Ian in ‘Holes’. His screen credits include a memorable guest lead role in ‘Doctors’ for the BBC, and as a founder of Mad Dragon Theatre Company he performed in its debut production of his own play ‘Physical Education’.

Don’t miss the chance to join Alan and Jonathan for this critically acclaimed show that picks up the story of Albert and Joey where ‘War Horse’ ends, and paints a forgotten history of the changing face of life in rural England.

FARM BOY will be on the Torch Theatre stage on Thursday, May 22, at 2pm and 6pm. Tickets are priced £15.

FORZA HORIZON 5

AFTER years of being an Xbox and PC exclusive, Forza Horizon 5 is finally racing onto the PlayStation 5 on April 29, 2025. This is a huge moment for the franchise, opening the doors for a whole new group of players to experience one of the most beloved open-world racing games of all time. Set in a beautiful and dynamic version of Mexico, the game combines stunning visuals, a massive car collection, and endless opportunities for exploration and excitement.

From the moment you start the game, it’s clear that this is a visual showcase. The environments are incredibly detailed, from sandy deserts and lush jungles to colorful towns and an active volcano.

On PS5, the game offers two modes: a performance mode that runs at a smooth 60 frames per second, and a quality mode that delivers richer graphics at 30 frames per second. If you’re playing on the PS5 Pro, you’ll notice an even bigger boost in visual effects, including realistic reflections on cars during races and free roam.

The driving experience itself is incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re drifting down a mountain trail, speeding along a highway, or taking a tight turn in the middle of a thunderstorm, the controls feel responsive and grounded. Every car handles differently, and there

are nearly 900 to choose from, covering everything from classic muscle cars to hyper-modern supercars. Car lovers will be in heaven with the amount of customization available, whether you’re tuning performance, tweaking visuals, or just trying to find the perfect ride.

On top of all the original content, PlayStation players will also be able to access the full range of expansions and add-ons that have been released since the game’s original launch. This includes the popular Hot Wheels expansion, which lets you race on wild orange loop-deloops through the sky, and the Rally Adventure, which adds dirt-road challenges and new racing teams to join.

Coinciding with the PS5 release is a brand-new free update called Horizon Realms, which brings even more to the table. This update reintroduces eleven fan-favorite locations from past seasonal events, including places like the Ice Rink, the Neon Airstrip, and the legendary Stunt Park. There’s also a new Stadium Track made for high-speed, high-skill racing. These new areas come with over 60 new challenges, and four brand-new cars to unlock—like the striking 2024 Lamborghini Revuelto and the rugged 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato.

HOROSCOPES

When it comes to buying the game, there are a few editions to choose from. The Standard Edition gives you the base game. The Deluxe Edition adds the Car Pass, which gives you access to more vehicles over time. And the Premium Edition includes all the extra content— like the Hot Wheels and Rally Adventure expansions, VIP membership perks, and a Welcome Pack—and even lets you start playing early on April 25.

One of the best features of this version is crossplatform play. No matter what system your friends are on— Xbox, PC, or PlayStation— you can join them for races, stunts, and challenges in a shared world. This keeps the online community alive and connected, no matter where you play.

In the end, Forza Horizon 5 on PS5 is more than just a port—it’s a full-featured, content-packed celebration of everything great about racing games. With jawdropping visuals, near-endless customization, an exciting open world, and fun multiplayer options, it delivers a complete and thrilling experience for both longtime fans and first-time players.

If you’re a racing fan or just looking for a massive game to lose yourself in, this one’s a must-play.

stages of a breakup. Put some distance and some time between you two. Then you can return to solve this in your usual loving way.

LIBRA

Some issues just never seem to go away no matter how hard we try. You’re facing something like that today, for the hundredth time most likely. The way things are looking you’ve got your work cut out for you. The solution likely involves working closely with someone who isn’t at all tough on the eyes. After it’s over, you’ll have something to legitimately gloat about to your friends.

SCORPIO

You’re feeling kind of strange and may have been trying to figure it out all day. You woke up on the crazy side of the bed, and you just can’t shake it. Don’t be too surprised if you realize that it’s quite familiar. Your passion is back and it doesn’t just apply to someone you find seriously attractive. There are all kinds of passion, some more convenient than others. You’re experiencing the whole range, and you should keep feeling it all day long. Use this gift wisely.

SAGITTARIUS

That intense feeling you’ve had lately in the romance department may not have gone anywhere. and it doesn’t show signs of going anywhere soon either. Don’t panic! When the one you adore draws near, don’t play hard to get or hard of hearing or anything else. Play it straight. Your feelings are more obvious than you’d like to think today, so just let them flow freely as much as you can.

CAPRICORN

Taking part in the gossip factory and paying attention to the buzz of the day has never really been your style, and that’s a good thing, of course! It keeps you honest and makes it easy for others to genuinely trust you. Today, though, there just might be a nugget of truth behind what you’re hearing. Not that you should get involved in the machinations behind the gossip, but it might be worth considering a battle plan if the truth turns out to be more than just a nugget.

AQUARIUS

You’ve never really been a stickler for doing what people say must be done when it should be done, and you feel the urge to relax right now. Whether or not it’s

WITH EDDIE THE gAmE gURU

Badger: Trading Places

BADGER begins with a voice from history. For decades, Japan and other nations have been taking advantage of the United States.

The saga continues unabated as we defend the Persian Gulf, an area of only marginal significance to the United States for its oil supplies but one upon which Japan and others are almost totally dependent. Why are these nations not paying the United States for the human lives and billions of dollars we are losing to protect their interests? Saudi Arabia, a country whose very existence is in the hands of the United States, last week refused to allow us to use their mine sweepers (which are, sadly, far more advanced than ours) to police the Gulf. The world is laughing at America’s politicians as we protect ships we don’t own, carrying oil we don’t need, destined for allies who won’t help.

Over the years, the Japanese, unimpeded by the huge costs of defending themselves (as long as the United States will do it for free), have built a strong and vibrant economy with unprecedented surpluses. They have brilliantly managed to maintain a weak yen against a strong dollar. This, coupled with our monumental spending for their, and others, defense, has moved Japan to the forefront of world economies.

Now that the tides are turning and the yen is becoming strong against the dollar, the Japanese are openly complaining and, in typical fashion, our politicians are reacting to these unjustified complaints.

It’s time for us to end our vast deficits by making Japan and others who can afford it pay. Our world protection is worth hundreds of billions of dollars to these countries, and their stake in their protection is far greater than ours.

Make Japan, Saudi Arabia, and others pay for the protection we extend as allies. Let’s help our farmers, our sick, our homeless by taking from some of the greatest profit machines ever created — machines created and nurtured by us. “Tax” these wealthy nations,

not America. End our huge deficits, reduce our taxes, and let America’s economy grow unencumbered by the cost of defending those who can easily afford to pay us for the defense of their freedom. Let’s not let our great country be laughed at anymore.

Replace the word “Japan” with “China” (CHYNAH!), and you have the current US President’s views on tariffs and trade.

In fact, you have them anyway. Those words, dear reader, were written by Donald Trump (or someone who translated his stream of consciousness into coherent English) in 1987.

That was before Mr Trump was the subject of 4,000 state and federal legal actions relating to his “unorthodox” business methods, before his conviction for fraud, before the six corporate bankruptcies (including losing money on a casino), before the Trump University scandal, and before The Apprentice USA rehabilitated and rebuilt Trump’s public image. Donald Trump is not a successful businessman;

he’s a rich, spoiled, draft-dodging manbaby who plays a parody of one.

The important point, however, is that Donald Trump has not changed. He has aged, yes, but with age has not come wisdom. With executive power and nobody to act as a check or balance upon him, his stray thoughts become Holy Writ, and his political and social prejudices run unimpeded from his mouth to law.

Apart from Donald Trump being here before on tariffs, so has the USA. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 did not lead to the Great Depression. It made the Depression last longer, deepened it, and left the American economy so damaged that it didn’t recover until after the start of the Second World War.

However, at the time of the Smoot-Hawley Act, far fewer people, both in the USA and globally, were exposed to the ups and downs of stock markets. If you think that stock markets have nothing to do with you, if you have a pension or an ISA that invests in stocks and shares, you’re in for a

nasty surprise.

Generally speaking, such investments even out over time. The longer they’re held, the smoother their performance. However, if you have a pension fund - in America, known as a 401K - that is closely connected to share performance and is due to mature soon, the last week or so has wiped a large chunk out of it.

Donald Trump, faced with tens of millions of US citizens seeing their pensions’ value tank, has blinked. Crucially, faced with increasing yields on US government bonds, which increase the cost of government debt financing, he had little option but to blink.

If you’re a Trumpette, this is all “the art of the deal”. It’s quite something to make a political point by slashing the value of American retirement incomes. And perhaps that is something to bear in mind. The attitude of Donald Trump and his advisors treats people and their futures as tradeable economic units and assets.

The collective financial security of ordinary Americans meant nothing to him and less to those economic shamen and fringe academics whispering in his ears.

There are plenty of examples of the idiocy of the President and his advisors’ cretinous approach to setting punitive tariffs. Tariffs on uninhabited islands and an overseas US military base are well-known. But consider the tiny southern African kingdom of Lesotho.

The average income for someone from Lesotho is low, around US$5 a day. American goods are luxuries. Lesotho’s major export to the US is diamonds, a commodity the US does not produce. That leads to an imbalance in the countries’ trading relationships. The President imposed massive and punitive tariffs on Lesotho to punish them for not buying US goods its citizens can’t afford and for providing a commodity the US wants/needs but does not produce.

That’s not a sound economic policy; it’s madness.

Special relationship? More like a special kind of stupid

WELL now, look who’s flapping about the White House again—old King Donald himself, comb-over billowing in the wind and all the grace of a puffin on a treadmill. And guess what he’s brought with him this time? Tariffs. Great big beaky ones. The kind that clobber your steel, crunch your car exports, and make a mess of your aluminium like a drunk herring gull in a crisp factory.

Britain’s

been handed a 10% tariff on general goods and an extra 25% for the really juicy stuff. And that’s meant to be the good

news. Apparently we’re supposed to be grateful—some Downing Street dodo thinks this is a “win” because the EU’s getting hit with double. That’s like being mugged and saying, “Could be worse—he only nicked my wallet, not my shoes.”

Let’s get one thing straight: this ain’t no special relationship. This is more like hanging around with a spoiled child who throws chips at pensioners and calls it foreign policy. A proper alliance, in my book, means trust, cooperation, and maybe sharing the odd pasty now and again. But Trump? He sees trade like a pub fight. If you sell him more than he sells you, he reckons you’re a thief. That’s not diplomacy—that’s paranoia with a calculator.

Poor Keir Starmer, bless his shiny new shoes, is trying to play nice. Maybe he thinks if he smiles and calls America a “friend” enough times, Trump won’t slap us with more tariffs. That’s like calling a seagull “cuddly” and expecting it not to nick your chips.

Ministers are whispering sweet

nothings into the void, pretending it’s all strategic. But here’s the truth: you can’t negotiate with a wrecking ball. You can’t apply reason to a bloke who thinks foreign policy is a reality TV show and “reciprocity” is something penguins do.

Yes, we’ve still got to deal with the Yanks—our defence systems are so tangled up with theirs, we might as well have a bald eagle nesting in our Ministry of Defence. But let’s not kid ourselves. This ain’t the America we used to know. This one’s more into purging multilateralism, playing footsie with Putin, and demanding loyalty like a mafia boss with a flag.

tarmer’s stuck. He can’t pick a fight, but he also can’t afford to keep nodding like a dashboard dog. So we keep calling America our “principal ally” and pretending the emperor’s not wearing golf trousers and shouting at clouds.

But here’s the warning from the docks: don’t invest too much in trying to get crumbs from a table that’s already been flipped over. Trump’s White House doesn’t want partners—it wants followers. Britain needs to stop chasing scraps and start making new friends. Ones who don’t treat international law like it’s written on chip paper.

Because right now? Reciprocity isn’t for penguins. It’s for mugs.

Expert tips to protect your furry friends from pet theft

AS National Pet Day approaches this week (April 11), pet owners across Pembrokeshire are being urged to take extra precautions to keep their beloved animals safe – especially with dog theft still a worrying trend in the UK.

Recent figures from Direct Line Pet Insurance show that a staggering 1,808 dogs were stolen last year – that’s five dogs every single day.

Now, one of the country’s leading home security firms, Verisure UK, is calling on pet lovers to get serious about home safety.

Lynsay Lancaster, Operations Manager at Verisure, said:

“With pet theft on the rise, getting a monitored security alarm is more important than ever. Last year alone, Verisure intervened in more than 4,400 security incidents. Simple, proactive steps can make a big difference in preventing heartache.”

To mark National Pet Day, here are five expert tips from Lynsay to help you protect your pets:

1. Microchip your pets

It’s the law – and it works. Microchipping is already mandatory for dogs (since 2016) and now cats (since 2023),

helping lost or stolen pets get safely returned home.

2. Create a secure ‘pet zone’

Have a designated area in your home where your pet can stay safe, especially when you’re out. A closed room, indoor kennel

or secured area can reduce the chance of escape or injury during a break-in.

3. Get to know your neighbours

Building a community of familiar faces means more

people to watch out for your pet if they get loose or go missing.

4. Close the curtains when you leave

Not only does this help keep your house cooler for pets, but it also hides them – and your belongings – from potential thieves peering in.

5. Invest in a monitored alarm system

While a barking dog might help, a professionally monitored system with cameras – like those offered by Verisure – gives you extra protection and peace of mind. If there’s a break-in, trained staff can contact police and even let you keep an eye on your pets in real time.

So, whether you’ve got a soppy spaniel, a cheeky cat, or a talkative parrot, a few simple steps could mean the difference between a normal day and a devastating loss.

After all, our pets aren’t just animals – they’re family.

New headteacher appointed at Ysgol Bro Gwaun

A NEW headteacher has been appointed at Ysgol Bro Gwaun in Fishguard as the school prepares for a change in leadership this September.

Current deputy headteacher, Alana Finn, will step into the role following the retirement of headteacher Paul Edwards at the end of the academic year in July.

Miss Finn, who grew up in Tumble, Carmarthenshire, has

worked at the school for 23 years. She began her career at Ysgol Bro Gwaun as a newly qualified teacher after studying Welsh and history at Aberystwyth University, and has since held various management roles before becoming deputy head.

The school’s board of governors confirmed Miss Finn’s appointment after what was described as a “rigorous

selection process.”

Miss Finn said she was “honoured and excited” to take on the role.

“This school has such potential,” she said. “I am looking forward to working with the excellent staff, our pupils, families, the governing body, and the wider community.

“I want not just staff but pupils as well to be innovative in their thinking. We are working towards excellence, but excellence has a different meaning for every child. We are telling pupils they can achieve whatever they want, and the school will support them.”

She said the school’s inclusive and nurturing ethos is what makes Ysgol Bro Gwaun special.

“Everybody who comes in says there is a nice feeling about the place. We listen to the voice of the pupils, and every pupil is cared for as an individual. We work as a family here, and I want to continue building on that ethos while also driving standards.”

Miss Finn is well-regarded for her commitment to school improvement, the development of a strong bilingual ethos, and her work on safeguarding and wellbeing.

She said her appointment had been warmly received by

the school community.

“So many of the pupils have been coming up to congratulate me,” she said. “It was announced in assembly and then they were all at my door!”

She also paid tribute to her predecessor.

“I want to congratulate Mr Paul Edwards on his achievements at Ysgol Bro Gwaun and I wish him a very well-deserved retirement. I’d also like to thank my family, friends, and the whole school community, past and present, for their continuous support.”

Wendy Raymond, chair of governors, said: “On behalf of the governing body of Ysgol Bro Gwaun, we look forward to supporting and working with Miss Finn and are confident she will be a great leader of our school community in Fishguard and the surrounding area.

“We also extend heartfelt thanks to Mr Edwards for his dedication and outstanding service. We wish him good health and happiness in his retirement.

“As Ysgol Bro Gwaun embarks on this new chapter, the school community is enthusiastic about a future that honours its roots while embracing fresh opportunities for growth and excellence.”

Welsh pupils harness Minecraft to explore offshore wind and climate careers

PUPILS at Golden Grove School in Pembrokeshire are diving into the world of renewable energy and marine conservation through the immersive Minecraft Education world Offshore Wind Power Challenge—a collaboration between The Crown Estate and Microsoft UK.

Available in both Welsh and English, the virtual world enables students to design and build their own offshore wind farms to power a coastal village. Along the way, they gain insights into climate change, environmental protection, and careers in sustainability, engineering and conservation.

The initiative has now been expanded with new classroom resources tailored for younger learners and aligned to the Welsh curriculum. Lesson plans for teachers are also being provided to support the integration of the material into everyday teaching.

As part of their focus on developing green skills in schools across Wales, The Crown Estate partnered with education specialists Dosbarth

to create the new learning content. The organisation is currently delivering taster sessions across the country, including to Year 5 and 6 pupils at Golden Grove.

Wales is emerging as a leader in renewable energy, with new floating offshore wind farms set to be developed in

the Celtic Sea under The Crown Estate’s latest seabed leasing round. These projects have the potential to generate up to 4.5GW of electricity—enough to power more than four million homes. Independent research estimates the economic value of these developments could reach £1.4bn, supporting up to

5,300 jobs.*

Rebecca Williams, Director of Devolved Nations at The Crown Estate, said: “This is an exciting collaboration that brings new educational content to schools through the best-selling game of all time. This Minecraft Education world provides students and teachers with a fun way to explore the opportunities and challenges of our energy transition while protecting the natural environment, through the languages that matter most to them.

“The Crown Estate is committed to creating partnerships that have a positive impact. We hope this initiative will inspire young people to develop their skills and discover the green careers of the future.”

Karen Jones, Managing Director of Dosbarth, added: “By creating new materials for younger audiences that align with the Welsh curriculum—and providing accessible lesson plans for busy teachers—we believe these resources will inspire even more pupils across Wales to become the next generation of environmental leaders and problem-solvers.”

Farmers urged to monitor winter wheat

UNUSUAL early observations of yellow rust on several winter wheat varieties in some Recommended Lists (RL) trials mean farmers will need to monitor crops more closely and not rely on RL disease ratings this season, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

Recent RL trial inspections in the North of England have found signs of the foliar disease on several varieties classified as resistant at young plant stage in the latest RL (2025/26), including some varieties that are widely grown. There are also the first hints of something unusual starting to happen in other RL trial regions.

As the yellow rust pathogen population is highly diverse, it is not unusual to detect new strains. However, these early observations suggest that there may be a significant new strain or strains in the UK pathogen population that we have not seen before.

Interestingly, some varieties historically classified as susceptible at the young plant stage are currently relatively clean

at the impacted trial sites. This suggests a potential pathogen population shift that may have displaced some other yellow rust strains.

AHDB Senior Crop Production System Scientist, Mark Bollebakker, responsible for managing the RL trials, said: “The trials in question were at about growth stage 30 at the time of inspection, so adult plant resistance had not kicked in. When it does, from stem extension onwards, these varieties may outgrow initial infection. However, it is difficult to predict what will happen. We have sent samples to UKCPVS for testing to give us a better understanding of what we are seeing.”

With a very fluid situation, farmers and agronomists should inspect all varieties prior to final spray decisions and not rely on the RL ratings until we know more.

AHDB trial inspectors are assessing the situation and further updates will be issued as soon as possible.

More information can be found at: Has the winter wheat yellow rust population shifted? | AHDB

New research network aims to reduce dairy farming carbon footprint

INNOVATIVE strategies to significantly reduce high levels of greenhouse gas emissions in the dairy industry are being trialled in a major new research project.

The pioneering initiative will test and assess the effectiveness of a range of science-based solutions aimed at making dairy farming more economically and environmentally sustainable.

A network of 56 dairy farms is being set up across four major dairying regions in the UK, including West Wales and South/South-West England; Northern Ireland; Cumbria and South-West Scotland, and NorthWest England.

The network will provide a series of demonstration hubs where farmers, industry, scientists and policymakers can work together to deploy and evaluate the impact of the new measures.

Aberystwyth University is one of ten leading research institutions contributing to the UK Dairy Carbon Network project, which is led by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).

The project will be developing a toolkit of practical measures which dairy farmers can choose to adopt in a bid to reduce their herd’s carbon footprint.

OPTIONS COULD INCLUDE:

• improving forage quality through science developed by plant breeding programmes at Aberystwyth University’s Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS)

• following the latest research on best practice for silage making

• reducing the protein content of dairy cow feeds to improve nitrogen use efficiency.

Professor Jon Moorby, Chair in Livestock Science at Aberystwyth

University, said: “Dairy cows contribute significantly to Wales’s rural economy and produce high quality food for people from grass and other forages. However, cows, like other ruminant animals, produce greenhouse gases like methane as a by-product of converting grass into milk.

“Many dairy farmers are already taking steps to help minimise greenhouse gas production from their cows and this project aims to demonstrate further what can be achieved across all types of dairy farms to help improve their sustainability. This is a collaborative initiative and

we want to work closely with farmers as well as the wider industry and policymakers.”

Professor Steven Morrison, Head of Sustainable Livestock Systems at AFBI, said: “Our goal with the project is to drive meaningful change in the dairy sector by applying research directly to real-world farming conditions and measuring the impact.

“By working closely with farmers and using advanced measurement and modelling techniques, we aim to measure and report significant reductions in the carbon emissions from dairy farming in the UK. During the formation of the project, the interest from across the agricultural sector was immense, with over 50 organisations offering support and indicating a willingness to get involved in the project once commissioned.”

The UK Dairy Carbon Network Project is funded by the UK Government’s Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Led by AFBI, the UK wide consortium of organisations also includes the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB); AgriSearch; UK Agritech Centre; ADAS; Aberystwyth University; Queen’s University Belfast; Harper Adams University; University of Reading; Newcastle University and Scotland’s Rural College.

College unveils new qualifications to support future of Welsh farming

COLEG CAMBRIA has launched a suite of new higher education qualifications designed to equip the next generation of agricultural leaders in Wales.

The state-of-the-art landbased college, which has campuses in Wrexham, Deeside, Northop and Llysfasi, has unveiled Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes aimed at future farm managers, shepherds, farmers, and rural business professionals.

The new courses will be delivered at the college’s Llysfasi campus near Ruthin, where a £10 million Innovation Hub – Hwb Arloesi – was recently opened. Plans have also been submitted for a 50-bedroom student accommodation block to support the growing demand for agricultural education in the region.

Modules on offer include Business and Business

Environment, Managing a Successful Project, Principles of Livestock Production, Animal Health and Welfare, Land-based Machinery and Technology, and Rural Business Administration and Accounting.

Emma Hurst, Dean of Access and Higher Education at Coleg Cambria, said the new qualifications are designed to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector.

“These programmes provide students with a strong foundation of knowledge, advanced technical skills, and the opportunity to pursue a wide range of careers across the land-based industries,” she said.

“In addition to access to expert lecturers and guest speakers, students on the HNC and HND programmes benefit from hands-on experience at Llysfasi’s commercial 1,000acre farm, which includes dairy, suckler, and sheep enterprises.

“With developments in

LAST week the Welsh Government published its independent review into the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) Regulations 2021. Since their introduction, the Farmers’ Union of Wales has been critical of the regulations, particularly due to their disproportionate nature and the economic and bureaucratic burden they have placed on all Welsh farmers.

or novel technologies. These have long been some of the FUW’s key asks.

precision agriculture, smart farming technologies and new environmental challenges, there’s never been a more exciting time to enter the sector – and no better place to learn than Coleg Cambria.”

The Hwb Arloesi development, backed by more than £5.9 million from the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, spans 1,095 square metres across two carbon-neutral storeys. Built by Wrexham-based Read Construction, the facility includes classrooms, laboratories, a library, coffee shop, climbing wall, meeting spaces, atrium, Higher Education centre, and a wellbeing hub.

Elin Roberts, Head of Llysfasi, praised the impact the new building has already had.

“The hub is incredible –the equipment, teaching and learning spaces, and overall environment are unmatched in this region,” she said.

“It’s a huge boost for both students and staff. Those enrolling on our FE and HE agriculture programmes now have access to cutting-edge facilities in a welcoming, innovative learning environment.

“This is the perfect time to choose Coleg Cambria as the next step in your agricultural career.”

For more information on the new agriculture courses at Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria. ac.uk, email he@cambria.ac.uk, or call 01978 515477. Follow Coleg Cambria on social media for updates.

23 recommendations are outlined, with many addressing some of the challenges FUW has repeatedly raised. In particular, calls are outlined for collaborative investigation, evidencegathering, and regulatory amendments were warranted - an approach FUW believes is long overdue.

In the short term, the review states that recording processes, such as the Welsh Government Workbook should be scrutinised to ensure improved usability and clarity of relevance to farming practices here in Wales. Consideration is also sought for the suitability of exemptions for holdings under disease restrictions such as Bovine TB. The inclusion of a recommendation to review provisions under tenancy legislation might also offer protection to tenants, and provide greater clarity where third parties are liable for regulatory compliance.

In the medium term, the review proposes that alternatives to the 170 kg per hectare nitrogen limit be considered where an enhanced nutrient management approach might be able to demonstrate a low risk of pollution from increased applications. It also recommends investigating alternative measures to the closed periods, with a focus on investigating regulatory changes that might allow for the use of innovative

Despite stating any increased regulatory burden should be minimised, disappointingly, several recommendations hint towards further regulatory requirements. These include regulations aimed at reducing ammonia loss through the use of low-emission slurry spreading equipment, limiting urea fertiliser usage, introducing soil protection measures and considerations for inspection requirements for pre-1991 slurry and silage stores to assess pollution risks posed. In the long term, the review also suggests considering civil sanctions to improve the enforcement and efficiency of sanctions for those in breach of the regulations.

Dr Susannah Bolton, as part of this review, also further consulted on the alternative measures as recommended by the Senedd Economy Trade and Rural Affairs Committee’s review in 2022. The FUW also produced a submission on alternative measures and is frustrated by the considerable delay in assessing and consulting on these. Whilst the review recommends the adoption of several alternative measures, it is imperative that the Welsh Government now acts upon these recommendations with urgency by working in collaboration with the farming industry.

The FUW acknowledges the findings of the review, but is disappointed to note mentions of further regulations upon industry. The FUW strongly believes that changes to the current regulations to ensure they are practical, proportionate and fit for purpose must be made in the first instance.

mBYD UK sells more cars in Q1 2025 than whole of 2024

BYD has set a new sales record in the UK, selling 9,271 cars in q1 alone. This achievement is not only BYD UK’s most successful quarter since the company introduced passenger cars in March 2023, but also means the company sold more cars in the most recent quarter than the whole of 2024 combined.

This impressive achievement has propelled BYD’s UK market share to 1.6%, from 0.45% in 2024. In March alone, total market share was 1.8% – in exactly two years since the company launched passenger cars in the UK.

The SEAL U DM-i and SEAL were the standout sales stars in Q1, with the former the best performing model in the PHEV segment and the latter the seventh best-selling model in the pure electric category. The company registered 3,975 SEAL U DM-i and 2,521 SEAL.

Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director, BYD UK: “I am incredibly proud of our latest achievement in the UK; thanks to the tireless work of our team and retailer partners we have smashed yet another sales record. At BYD our mission is to bring high-tech and high-value cars to our customers, and it’s great to see this resonating with UK buyers. With the addition of SEALION 7, we are confident that more people will continue

to choose BYD.”

The all-new BYD SEALION 7 joined the range in March and is already proving popular with customers. Based on BYD’s e-platform 3.0 and utilising the brand’s innovative Blade Battery, the SEALION 7 combines sporty performance, stylish SUV design, cutting-edge

technology and a beautifully finishes, spacious cabin. With an all-electric range of up to 312 miles of range, the SEALION 7 further extends the reach of BYD in the UK car market. While BYD passenger cars is relatively new to the UK, BYD has a long and successful history in the UK thanks to its

commercial vehicle division. BYD introduced its first fullyelectric buses on UK roads in 2014, and now has over 2,500 buses in operation in major cities across the country. Plus, since 2016, BYD has provided 1.8GWh of battery energy storage to the UK’s national grid.

1.2

Volkswagen and OVO EV offer gets miles better

Volkswagen electric car customers can now enjoy up to 30,000 miles of free power* for their vehicles thanks to an improved offer with OVO, Volkswagen UK’s official energy partner – available until the end of May.

OVO’s Charge Anytime product can be added to any of its energy tariffs and lets people charge their electric cars at home for just 7p per KwH at any time, day or night. Alongside this, OVO is offering credit for energy worth up to 10,000 free miles to anyone ordering a new electric Volkswagen by 31 May, plus 10,000 additional miles each year for two years when they stay with Charge Anytime.

The previous offer resumes after 31 May: energy credit worth up to 10,000 free miles at the time of purchase and 1,000 additional miles for two years.

Full terms and eligibility criteria for the improved offer are on the Volkswagen and OVO websites.

See model information pages on the Volkswagen website for more about the brand’s range of electric cars.

Volkswagen continues to be the UK’s best-selling new-car brand. A total of 166,304 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were registered in the UK in 2024.

New 91-home development to be built in sought-after Narberth

THE FINAL sign-off for an estate of 91 houses in a Pembrokeshire town, more than 40 per cent of them affordable, has been given the go-ahead by county planners.

In an application approved at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Wales & West Housing Association sought permission for 91, one, two, three and four-bedroomed homes on land to the north of Adams Drive and to the west of Bloomfield Gardens, Narberth.

28 affordable homes are proposed, along with 12 houses as Low-Cost Home Ownership Units, the remaining 51 homes for open market sale, the meeting hearing the affordable units would have a local letting policy.

Agent Asbri Planning Ltd, in a supporting statement, said: “The design led approach will create a high-quality place, that sensitively sits within the site retained wildlife corridors and positively connects to the community of Narberth.”

It added: “The development of a mixed tenure site for different types of homes will cater for a variety of local people. These include first-time buyers, growing families looking to move up the property ladder, those looking for bungalows or to downsize for their retirement.

“As indicated approximately half of the homes proposed will be for social rent or offered for sale as part of a discounted

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

home ownership scheme for local people who want to buy their own home but cannot afford the high cost of houses in Narberth.”

The discounted sale properties will be delivered via Wales & West Housing’s ‘Own Home Cymru’ scheme which helps buyers with a local connection to purchase a home of their own at 70 per cent of market value without the need for a deposit.

Narberth Town Council has

raised concerns about site access and the ability of the town’s infrastructure to cope with the additional homes.

Some 16 letters of concern were also received by planners, issues including site access concerns and safety, the traffic should be more equally split between the two sites, and the scheme exacerbating gridlock conditions already experienced on the town centre one-way system.

The application was conditionally backed with delegated powers given to the head of planning to approve subject to conditions including a

Section 106 legal agreement. That agreement has now been secured, conditions including the provision of affordable housing in perpetuity and the implementation of a local lettings policy, a financial contribution to mitigate the impact of development on primary education provision and one towards off-site play space provision; with full planning conditionally approved.

Narberth was featured in The Sunday Times 2023 Best Places to Live Guide, where it was described as having “a town centre that punches far above its weight”.

Former Fishguard Barclays bank building to become flats

A CALL to redevelop a Pembrokeshire town centre

Barclays bank building, empty since 2018, has been given the go-ahead by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, local business BP Betterspoons Ltd, through agent GMW Design, sought permission for a change of use of the former Barclays Bank, Market Square, Fishguard – in the town’s conservation area – to a flexible retail use, along with alterations to the building and the creation of two residential flats.

A supporting statement prepared by Johnston Planning Ltd said: “The applicants are a local business who run a number of successful hospitality establishments within the county, they seek the refurbishment of the existing building and aspire

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

to a flexible retail use (covering use classes A1, A2 & A3) in order to maximise the potential for continued occupation of this prominent town centre building.

“This is a large detached two storey structure (with additional roof accommodation) occupying a prominent position on the main square in the centre of Fishguard flanked by the Royal Oak (separated by an alleyway) to the west and St Marys Church (separated by a portion of the cemetery) to the east.”

It says the currently vacant building “clearly has a negative impact on the character of the centre especially given its central position within the town,” adding the proposal “would clearly have a

beneficial impact on the character of the conservation area.”

It concluded: “The scheme as proposed seeks the refurbishment and re-use of an existing building within the primary town centre location and the Fishguard Conservation Area. Given the primary frontage location maximum scope is sought for the proposed retail use in order to maximise the chances for full and meaningful occupation in a fashion that will enhance the vitality and viability of

the town centre.

“The expansion of use is considered to be acceptable and manageable in planning terms. Similarly the scheme seeks to introduce an additional residential unit within the existing building footprint thereby maximising its potential whilst simultaneously adding to the provision of housing in the plan area.”

The application was conditionally approved by county planners.

Little Haven garden shed holiday let scheme refused

PLANS to convert a garden shed to a holiday let at a Pembrokeshire seaside village with the highest rates of second homes and holiday lets in the county have been turned down.

In an application before Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Shabnam Banihashem of 19a Wesley Road, Little Haven sought permission to convert a rear garden shed, already replace with a summerhouse, to holiday let accommodation.

Local community council The Havens had objected to the scheme, saying it has concerns over parking and highway access arrangements, and concerns about impact on Highway traffic safetyrelated matters.

The park’s building conservation officer had recommended the plans be refused despite it being a “relatively hidden and constricted site” with a likely low impact on the conservation area, saying there “is likely to be an impact on character due to extra traffic – and the potential for setting a worrying development”.

An officer report recommending refusal said: “The Authority has concerns in connection with the proposal due to the impact upon the residential amenity of the host dwelling, and its immediate neighbours, the impact upon the character of the Little Haven Conservation Area due to the potential for additional traffic, and due

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

to the proposed summerhouse being unsuitable in terms of size for the use of holiday letting.

“Ordinarily, when a proposal would result in the creation of a single residential unit, a financial contribution towards the provision of off-site affordable housing would be required [in accordance with policy].

“However, in this particular case,

the unit being proposed would not be suitable for long term residential use due to the limited size of the unit. As such, had the proposal been deemed acceptable, the Authority would have imposed a condition restricting the use of the unit to C6 – short term holiday let.

“Given that it would not have then been possible for the unit to benefit from current permitted development rights between C3, C5 and C6 uses, a commuted sum would not have been sought.

“Overall, it is considered that the

proposed development would have an unacceptable impact upon residential amenity, and upon the character of the Little Haven Conservation Area.”

The application was refused on grounds including “introducing a significantly greater level of noise and disturbance than the current situation, to the detriment of the residential amenity of neighbouring properties,” and impact on the conservation area.

A previous national park report, based on the second homes council tax premium payable to Pembrokeshire County Council, has said nearly twothirds of properties in Little Haven are either second homes or holiday lets.

For the main centres of settlements within the national park, second home rates, at the time of the 2023 report, were: Tenby 28.07 per cent, Saundersfoot 29.35 per cent, St Davids 20.86 per cent and Newport 30.6 per cent.

For smaller communities within the national park, some of the figures were even higher: Amroth 47.37 per cent, Broad Haven 36.58 per cent, Dale 39.47 per cent, Lawrenny 28.57 per cent, Marloes 29.66 per cent, Moylegrove 22.64 per cent, and Wisemans Bridge 35.71 per cent.

Topping the list, by a large margin, were: Nolton Haven 60 per cent, and 62.96 per cent Little Haven.

Haverfordwest builders yard to be turned into hand car wash

A HAND car wash scheme at a Pembrokeshire builders’ yard on the edge of the county town has been given the go-ahead by county planners.

In an application before Pembrokeshire county council, Serkan Ustugul sought permission to use part of the builders’ yard/ lorry park at Lower Dredgemans Hill, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest as a car wash facility, along with an associated waiting area/store and drainage mitigation system.

A supporting statement through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd said: “The yard has historic use as a builder’s yard for some 80 years with the site being used by various vehicles on multiple occasions during the week. A number of small businesses lease portions of the land from the owner as builder’s yard, lorry park, and mechanic and storage areas, and they in turn generate traffic movements to access and egress the yard onto the main road.

“Being close to Merlins Bridge and Haverfordwest the proposed site for the car wash facility is in a sustainable location. The site is adjacent to the main railway line and to the north is a

large complex of business units.”

Works were undertaken at the site back in 2019 when the entrance

gates into the site and the flanking walls were removed to for access by Network Rail in order to carry out nearby bridge improvements on the adjoining railway network, with a later full planning application for the

revised access for larger vehicles for those works granted.

The latest application said existing consents at the site allowed multiple uses, with the use of of a car-wash already allowed, adding: “however, the operational development requires planning permission. This application proposes the use of part of the land at the existing builder’s yard to form a hand car wash facility, which is proposed to operate from 8.30am to 6pm seven days a week (including bank holidays).

“The detailed scheme comprises a one-way system with vehicular entry and exit off the existing access at Merlins Bridge which was widened and improved under [the previous consent].”

It finished: “The proposed hand car-wash facility will provide local employment opportunities and provide an important local service for its customers. The scheme will not be visually intrusive due to the proposed location of the development as a whole, and the detailed layout of the site. The canopies and portacabin proposed are not over-sized and minimised visual clutter on the site.” The application was conditionally approved by planning officers.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

New patient deal aims to cut NHS waiting times across Wales

A NEW deal between the NHS and the public is at the centre of a plan to drive down the longest waiting times for healthcare in Wales.

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles is expected to unveil a strategy this week aimed at reducing the overall waiting list by 200,000 patients by March 2026. The plan also sets targets to eliminate two-year waits for planned treatments and restore a maximum eight-week wait for diagnostic tests.

A key part of the announcement is the introduction of a new “patient deal”, which aims to improve transparency, reduce missed appointments and ensure better preparation for surgery. This deal will be incorporated into updated referral-to-treatment guidelines due later this month.

What the new deal includes:

• Faster access to planned care with patients told how long they can expect to wait once added to the list.

• Waiting time tracking through the NHS Wales App, with updates available from June.

• Only fit and well patients will be added to surgical waiting lists, in line with evidence showing they recover more quickly and have better outcomes.

• Support to get surgery-ready, with help to improve health before treatment.

• Appointment changes, where patients will be offered two dates. If they miss both without good reason, they

will be removed from the waiting list.

• Alternatives and risks explained, so patients are fully informed before deciding on surgery.

Each year, around 700,000 outpatient appointments in Wales are either missed by patients or cancelled. Health boards will now be under stricter obligations to reduce these disruptions, and to minimise the number of cancellations made by the NHS itself.

Mr Miles said: “The NHS will do all it can to prioritise faster access to treatment. In return, we are asking the public to prioritise

and keep their appointments so that, together, we make the best possible use of scarce NHS resources.

“We cannot continue losing one in seven appointments due to no-shows or other avoidable reasons. These missed slots delay care for everyone and waste vital resources.

“Evidence shows people in better health recover more quickly and require shorter hospital stays. By preparing patients properly and ensuring they understand all treatment options, we can deliver better outcomes and greater efficiency.”

The Welsh Government hopes the new plan will bring

waiting lists closer to prepandemic levels. As well as reducing overall waiting list size by 200,000 by March 2026, the government has pledged to ensure no one waits more than two years for planned treatment and to restore the eight-week target for diagnostic testing. Health boards will be expected to continue transforming how they deliver planned care over the next 12 months. This includes adopting more regional working models and implementing recommendations from the Ministerial Advisory Group on NHS Performance and Productivity, due to report later this month.

Mind, Body and Spirit Awareness Day at North Pembrokeshire venue

THIS Saturday, April 12, thoughts will be turning to the mind, body and spirit, thanks to the ever-popular Awareness Day that takes place at Canolfan Hermon in North Pembrokeshire.

This is the fourth event of its kind at the village hall and each year the event continues to grow from strength to strength.

This year, there will be a total of eight therapists in attendance as well as two mediums, a card reader and ten stall holders selling spiritual, mind and body items including crystals, jewellery, honey and cosmetics. There will also be a stall from the Jig-So Children’s Centre in Cardigan while hot food and refreshments will also be served throughout the day by Fusion Kitchen.

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

As with previous events, the Mind, Body and Spirit Awareness Day will be raising funds for Breast Cancer and Thrombosis UK. As a result, there will be a £1 entry fee as well as optional raffle tickets and a Memory Tree for additional donations. A light language healing demonstration will take place at 1 pm.

People near and far are invited to experience the different therapies, while event organiser Lynda Barnes says there is guaranteed to be something here for everyone. The event starts at 11 am and will continue until 3 pm. For further information, contact Lynda Barnes on 07920249194.

‘Nobody taking responsibility’ for paying care workers the real living wage

CARE HOME providers urged the Welsh Government to follow through on a key commitment to ensure care workers are paid the real living wage.

Giving evidence in the Senedd, Care Forum Wales, which represents more than 450 care homes, warned funding did not reach all parts of the sector in 2024/25.

The non-profit organisation said funding for the real living wage (RLW) was not ringfenced, so some councils chose to spend the money on libraries and teachers’ salaries instead.

Care Forum Wales raised concerns about “nobody taking responsibility”, with the Welsh Government claiming to have provided the money and councils saying it was insufficient.

Labour’s manifesto for the 2021 election contained a pledge to “ensure care workers are paid the real living wage during the next Senedd term”.

But Sanjiv Joshi, Care Forum Wales’ treasurer, warned the Welsh Government’s push for care workers to receive the real living wage has become an aspiration rather than a reality.

He told the local government committee: “The first year when it was announced … providers had to give an undertaking to commissioners that we were paying the real living wage.

“Since then, that’s now become aspirational as commissioners have not had the funds – or so we are told – to follow through and maintain those real living wages.”

Giving evidence on April 3, Melanie Minty, policy adviser at Care Forum Wales, said: “The real living wage, as Sanjiv said, isn’t reaching the sector necessarily.”

But, describing the RLW as a drop in the ocean, she warned care homes

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

cannot compete with councils and the NHS which pay a higher rate than used in costing commissioned care.

Under the Welsh Government’s 2025/26 budget, funding for the real living wage is allocated to councils within the revenue support grant, meaning it can be spent on other areas.

Ms Minty also voiced concerns about an increasing number of councils receiving grants to build care homes that “will never recover their costs”.

She pointed to the example of Carmarthenshire Council building a

£19.5m residential home despite free capacity in the county’s independent sector.

Cautioning that commissioning too often focuses on cost over outcomes, she said: “I’ve heard of commissioners going into homes and saying ‘you’re spending too much on food’.

“Things like holidays have been drastically cut back for younger people.”

Mr Joshi, who runs the Caron group of care homes in mid and south Wales – which includes Valley View Care Home in Hengoed – warned of a £9,000-a-year difference in nursing fees between neighbouring councils.

He said: “We’re talking about Cardiff and RCT … imagine the pressure that

puts on and it’s not driven by the needs, the needs would not be that different.”

Pressed about the minimum level of profits required to make services feasible, Mr Joshi replied that he targets an 11% return which is unachievable in parts of Wales.

Warning of an “irrational” policy direction, he said: “We have the private sector delivering incredible value for money [yet] being eroded by underfunding. Then we have the public sector spending four or five times that amount, it doesn’t make sense.”

Mr Joshi told the committee families are increasingly having to make up a difference in costs that should be provided by councils and health boards.

Warning charity providers are exiting the market, Ms Minty said: “Most of our third-sector members have sold their care homes because they are not viable.”

Ms Minty called for a fee methodology that can be applied consistently across Wales, with some councils far more transparent and understanding of the costs than others.

“Cardiff, while giving a really good increase this year, has been very honest in admitting they know it’s not going to meet all the changes,” she said. “Whereas other local authorities … have been known to make an offer and say this will cover all sorts of things.” She said the sector has stabilised since the pandemic and Brexit but increasing employer national insurance contributions have added to the pressure.

She told the committee: “I think we’ll see an unintended consequence will be that employers are forced to suppress pay increases … and some will be forced to make redundancies.”

Welsh Government announces additional funding for hospices

HOSPICSE across Wales are set to receive a further £5.5 million in funding to help continue delivering essential palliative and end-of-life care services.

The cash boost is in addition to the £3 million uplift in recurrent funding confirmed in the Welsh Government’s 2025–26 budget. The new funding will support Wales’ twelve NHScommissioned hospices — including the country’s two children’s hospices — in managing financial pressures and ensuring fair pay for staff.

Hospices in Wales play a vital role in supporting patients, families and carers during the most challenging times, and are committed to providing dignified and personalised care outside of hospital settings.

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: “Hospices play a vital role in supporting families at some of the most difficult times.

We are committed to strengthening and improving palliative and end-of-life care to ensure everyone who needs

hospice support receives dignified and personalised care, outside of hospital.”

Liz Booyse, Chair of Hospices Cymru, welcomed the announcement: “We welcome the Welsh Government’s commitment of funding. It is a testament to the importance of the hospice sector within our healthcare system, and we are immensely grateful. Our services provide vital care and support to over 20,000 children and adults affected by terminal illnesses each year.

This funding is a significant step forward, and we will continue working in partnership with the Welsh Government to achieve a sustainable funding settlement that will bring greater stability to the Welsh hospice sector.”

Matthew Brindley, Policy and Advocacy Manager for Wales at Hospice UK, added: “Recent years have been very tough for Wales’s hospices, amid a combination of rapidly rising costs and ever-growing need for end-of-life care.

We’re grateful to the Welsh Government for recognising both the pressure hospices are under, and the

immense value they bring to Wales’ health and social care system.

It’s vital we continue to work together toward a more sustainable approach to hospice funding in Wales. Our

population is ageing, with increasingly complex health needs. We need a strong, robust palliative and end-of-life care system — and hospices in Wales are ready to play their part.”

cSSenedd holds urgent debate on ‘callous’ welfare cuts

SENEDD members criticised Westminster’s “short-sighted, immoral and unethical” plans to slash spending on welfare by £4.8bn a year by the end of the decade.

Sioned Williams said she was extremely disappointed it took a motion to call an urgent debate to “force” Labour ministers to discuss the issue in the Senedd.

Plaid Cymru’s shadow social justice secretary raised the Bevan Foundation’s warning that the cuts will have a “huge and concerning” impact on 275,000 people in Wales.

Ms Williams described the reforms as the biggest cuts to disability benefits on record, with hundreds of thousands of people at risk of being pushed into poverty.

Calling for unambiguous condemnation from ministers in Cardiff Bay, she said: “The impact of these unprecedented cuts to disability benefits on Wales will be devastating.”

Leading the urgent debate on April 2, Ms Williams criticised first minister Eluned Morgan for “reserving her position” on the welfare reforms.

Altaf Hussain, the Conservatives’ shadow social justice secretary, stressed that welfare is not devolved to Wales, suggesting the debate will have little-to-no impact.

“This is not a UK Government known for listening to the Labour cliques in the Welsh Government,” he said. “Why should they pay any attention to what we say here today?”

Dr Hussain added: “Doing nothing is not an option, the bill for health and related benefits for people of working age is set to rise to £71bn a year by the end of the decade – far more than we spend on defending our nation.

Labour’s Hefin David, whose autistic daughter is in receipt of disability living allowance, told the Senedd: “I want her to be able to work. At the moment, I don’t know if she can … but she’s very creative and I would hope that the system will find, one day, a job for her.

“That is the role, I think, of the benefit system. At the moment … it is trapping people with autism, learning disabilities and other disabilities out of work and in poverty.”

The Caerphilly Senedd member voiced concerns about people with mental health conditions being stigmatised by some of the language in the UK Government’s green paper.

Dr David said he was willing to take Liz Kendall, the UK work and pensions secretary, at her

word that the green paper is the beginning of the conversation –not the end.

Criticising “political pointscoring”, his Labour colleague Alun Davies pointed out that the Welsh Government backed the motion to hold the urgent debate.

He said: “I would have preferred the UK Government to make a clear statement that its purpose is the eradication of poverty, that it actively seeks a reduction in inequality.”

He added: “My fear at the moment is that this current UK Government is in danger of repeating the same mistakes as the Liberal Democrats in 2010 by accepting a conservative economic analysis then becoming the over-enthusiastic supporters of Tory austerity.”

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth argued Labour ministers have proved themselves “terribly ineffective” at influencing their UK colleagues.

He told the Senedd: “That’s reflected in the fact that no assessment has been made of the impact of the welfare cuts on Wales – it’s astonishing.”

Mr ap Iorwerth said: “We have been taken back to a time reminiscent of Conservative rule at Westminster, unleashing austerity … failing to consult with [the] Welsh Government and

showing a carefree attitude to the impact of decisions on the people of Wales.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat Jane Dodds warned that disabled people face increased costs in their day-to-day lives as she criticised Labour for choosing not to tax the wealthiest.

Ms Dodds, the sole Lib Dem in the Senedd, said cutting benefits creates a false economy, raising concerns more people will be pushed into poverty and homelessness.

Plaid Cymru’s Adam Price accused Labour of choosing austerity over investment, warning: “The economic folly of these cuts is matched only by their moral bankruptcy.”

The former MP said the UK Government has unveiled a plan “so callous in its conception that it stands as nothing less than a betrayal of everything Labour once represented”.

Jane Hutt said the Welsh Government would carefully consider the impact of the proposed welfare cuts before responding to the UK Government’s consultation.

The social justice secretary pledged to ensure the voices of disabled people are heard in the Welsh Government’s response to the consultation which closes on June 13.

Chris Haines

ICNN Senedd reporter

Welsh Labour dominance under threat in closest Senedd race in 25 years

WELSH Labour’s long-standing dominance in Cardiff Bay could come to an end at the 2026 Senedd Election, with the latest projections showing the party only narrowly ahead of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and Plaid Cymru in what is set to be the tightest race in a generation.

Cavendish, one of the UK’s leading public affairs and communications consultancies, today (Thursday, April 10) launched its new Senedd Seat Projector, revealing dramatic shifts in public support and the likelihood of a multi-party government.

Using polling data and modelling based on the new proportional voting system and enlarged Senedd, Cavendish forecasts that Labour may secure 28 seats—just one ahead of Reform on 27, with Plaid Cymru close behind on 24.

Under the reformed system, 96 members will be elected across 16 new constituencies, with each electing six MSs. The changes are expected to significantly alter how campaigns are run and how votes are converted into seats.

COALITION GOVERNMENT LIKELY

Cathy Owens, Director at Cavendish,

said a coalition government appears almost certain.

“Our Senedd Seat Projector sets out a stark reality for Welsh Labour,” she said. “It shows a coalition between Labour and Plaid Cymru as the most likely outcome, potentially with joint First Ministers.

“Otherwise, a combination of the Conservatives, Reform, and Plaid Cymru would be needed to secure a majority—a scenario that seems politically unlikely.”

Cavendish says the data reflects a “seismic” shift in Welsh politics. For the past 25 years, Welsh Labour has polled consistently between 35% and 40%. But over the last year, support for Labour has dropped significantly, with Reform now regularly polling at similar levels.

THE POLLING PICTURE

Cavendish compiled projections from leading pollsters over the last 12 months. While Labour consistently leads, the margin is often razor-thin. A sample of projections includes:

Survation (April 2025):

• Labour: 28 seats (27%)

• Reform: 27 seats (24%)

• Plaid Cymru: 24 seats (24%)

• Conservatives: 15 seats (15%)

• Lib Dems: 2 seats (5%)

• Greens: 0

Beaufort (December 2024):

• Labour: 28 seats (27%)

• Reform: 28 seats (24%)

• Plaid Cymru: 20 seats (18%)

• Conservatives: 17 seats (17%)

• Lib Dems: 2 seats (6%)

• Greens: 1

YouGov (December 2024):

• Labour: 25 seats (23%)

• Reform: 25 seats (24%)

• Plaid Cymru: 24 seats (24%)

• Conservatives: 19 seats (19%)

• Lib Dems: 2 seats (5%)

• Greens: 1

Redfield & Wilton (June 2024):

• Labour: 38 seats (36%)

• Reform: 11 seats (11%)

• Plaid Cymru: 24 seats (22%)

• Conservatives: 20 seats (18%)

• Lib Dems: 2 seats (6%)

• Greens: 1

The variation highlights the volatility of Welsh politics under the new system, with small shifts in support having a significant impact on seat distribution.

CAMPAIGNS WILL NEED TO ADAPT

Cathy Owens added: “The new system rewards efficient, geographically spread support. Parties will need to rethink their campaign strategies completely.

“There will be six types of marginal seats, and organisations that want to influence manifesto pledges will need to engage far more strategically than before.”

Cavendish says the Senedd Seat Projector offers a unique insight into the upcoming election and will be an essential tool for journalists, analysts, campaigners and the public.

The tool is now live on the Cavendish website, along with a full report on Senedd reform.

Cavendish will also host a LinkedIn Live event featuring Cathy Owens and fellow director Nerys Evans, in conversation with journalist Will Hayward, to discuss the findings and what they mean for the future of Welsh politics.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

week saw Donald Trump unveil his new global tariffs, including 10% on the uninhabited Heard and McDonald Islands. The only inhabitants being penguins !

Responding to Trump’s announcement of new tariffs including on UK exports to the US, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

“Today, Donald Trump has launched a destructive trade war that threatens the jobs and living standards of people across the UK and around the world.

“We need to end this trade war as quickly as possibleand that means standing firm with our allies against Trump’s attempts to divide and rule. The Prime Minister should bring our Commonwealth and European partners together in a coalition of the willing against Trump’s tariffs, using retaliatory tariffs where necessary and signing new trade deals with each other where possible.

“If the Government gives in to Trump’s threats, it will only encourage him to use the same bullying tactics again and again.”

The Liberal Democrats have also called on the Government to launch a campaign urging people to “Buy British”, as part of a wider plan to boost businesses hit by the impact of Trump’s tariffs.

It comes after Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ in which he launched a raft of tariffs on countries around the globe, including 10% tariffs on UK exports and 25% tariffs on all automotive exports to the US.

The Liberal Democrats said the Government should launch a Buy British advertising campaign, to support British businesses and send a collective message that the country “won’t take Trump’s tariffs lying down.” The party also called for a new official “Made in Britain” logo available for those who wish to adopt it, to boost businesses from the UK’s world-leading car industry and clothes brands to local jam and cidermakers. The Liberal Democrats said it was crucial that this is bolstered with probusiness policies to reduce

the cost of doing business and stimulate demand for British products.

In Canada, the “Buy Canadian” movement has seen a surge in people buying locally produced goods. The Canadian PM, Mark Carney has urged people to ‘Buy Canadian’ wherever they can.

The Liberal Democrats said the UK government should be taking a similar approach, backing British businesses while “standing tall against Donald Trump”.

The Liberal Democrats have outlined a number of steps the Government should already be taking to back British businesses and save high streets in the face of Trump’s tariffs and stagnant economic growth. They include scrapping the National Insurance tax hike coming into effect in the coming days and overhauling the broken business rates system.

Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Daisy Cooper MP said:

“People across the country are deeply worried about what Trump’s trade war means for their living standards, and want to know what they can do to help. We need to bring the country together, and show collectively that we won’t take Trump’s tariffs lying down.

“The Government should launch a campaign to encourage people to Buy British and support our high streets, as part of a national effort to back British businesses. That must be bolstered with a raft of serious measures to unleash the potential of our businesses including overhauling business rates, scrapping the jobs tax and fixing our trading relationship with the EU.

“Ministers also need to rule out making concessions to Trump that would damage our local farmers, threaten the NHS or undermine the online safety of our children. We need to send Trump a clear message that Britain will not be bullied, by rallying round our businesses at home and working with our Commonwealth and European allies abroad.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Low bus use raises concerns over viability of new Welsh bus bill

BUS passenger numbers in Wales remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels, raising questions over the long-term viability of the Welsh Government’s proposed Bus Services (Wales) Bill.

Figures released for the 12 months up to March 2024 show that bus usage in Wales has recovered to just 78.3% of its March 2020 levels—well behind the figures for Scotland (92.5%) and England (89.5%), and below the Great Britain average of 89.5%.

The statistics have prompted criticism from the Welsh Conservatives, who say the figures expose the financial risks of the new legislation.

Commenting, Peter Fox MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure, said:

“Passenger growth has been slow for not only buses in Wales but also for trains, leading to a £295m bailout for Transport for Wales (TfW) by the Welsh Labour Government last year to compensate for declining passenger numbers.

“There was already a very real risk of Labour’s new Bus Bill becoming another money pit for the Welsh taxpayer. Once

bus franchising comes into play, will we see similarly large sums of public money poured into keeping bus franchises afloat?”

He added that the Welsh Government must ensure that rural and isolated communities are not left behind in any overhaul of services: “The Labour Welsh Government must prioritise support for the most hard-to-reach areas and ensure the development of a sustainable and effective bus network that meets the needs of communities across Wales.”

The Bus Services (Wales) Bill, introduced earlier this year, would give local authorities and Transport for Wales greater control over how services are operated. The legislation is designed to replace the current deregulated system with a franchised model—similar to that used in parts of England— allowing councils to plan routes, set fares, and integrate ticketing across providers.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said the aim of the Bill is not to replicate current models but to improve accessibility, connectivity, and reliability of public transport in Wales:

“The current deregulated

system has failed many communities, particularly in rural areas. The Bus Services (Wales) Bill will allow local authorities to work with providers in a more joined-up way, offering passengers a more consistent and dependable service.

“We recognise the financial challenges facing public transport, but we are committed to creating a network that serves people, not just profit.”

Public transport campaigners have said that passenger numbers alone should not be the only metric for success. Transform Cymru, a coalition advocating for sustainable transport, pointed to the need for long-term investment and public trust in services:

“The drop in passenger numbers reflects not just postpandemic trends, but also decades of underinvestment and service cuts. If we want people to get back on buses, services need to be reliable, affordable and convenient.”

As the Bill progresses through the Senedd, its financial implications, particularly in light of current budgetary pressures, are likely to remain a key point of debate.

Derelict Hakin Infants School site to be demolished

A PEMBROKESHIRE council application to demolish a disused school to make way for a potential housing development has been given the go-ahead by county planners.

Pembrokeshire County Council, through agent Asbri Planning, sought approval to demolish the former Hakin Infants School, Picton Road, Hakin, Milford Haven.

Works proposed also include the construction of a bat house and ecological enhancement area.

A supporting statement said: “The former school buildings are boarded up, whereas the

gardens and play areas have become overgrown. This is one of three schools to close in the last decade within the local area, alongside Hubberston VC School and Hakin Junior School, which have already been demolished.

“This application forms part of a wider strategy for the site. An outline application for residential development will be submitted in order to confirm the development in principle in land use terms is acceptable. A reserved matters application would follow on from outline approval in order to confirm the details of the actual

development to be built.”

It also sought permission for a bat box as a bat survey report “revealed that the building acts as a bat roost for low numbers of brown long-eared bats, greater horseshoe bats and lesser horseshoe bats.”

It finished: “The proposed work seeks to demolish and remove the former school buildings and surrounding hard standing within the eastern half of the site. The playing fields and vegetation located to the west of the site will remain unaffected by the demolition works and would therefore remain intact.”

The application was conditionally approved.

Pembrokeshire coach house to be converted into holiday let

PLANS to convert a Pembrokeshire coach house barn as part of the expansion of a local holiday let business has been approved.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Mr and Mrs Rodney sought permission for the conversion at Johnston Hall, Church Road, Johnston, having recently purchased the existing business. A supporting statement through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd said: “The business currently consists of three self-catering units of which two are within

Johnston Hall and a third is a detached barn conversion as a disabled friendly holiday unit. This third unit has recently been completed and is open for business. All three existing holiday units offer high-quality visitor accommodation set within an attractive garden and wider grounds setting.”

More recent applications have been submitted for the site, including a scheme for three shepherd huts and a new covered swimming pool, with the latter to serve both personal use and for on-site holiday makers, which was refused permission

BLUE VIEW

BRIAN MURPHY

The tariffs imposed by the USA on nearly every country worldwide has put the financial markets into turmoil. There has been record drops in share prices across the globe and we in wales will not be immune to its effects.

However, this is one of the few occasions I will agree with Eluned Morgan. Her comments that we should “keep our cool” is exactly the right approach. History has shown us that global markets fluctuate wildly, but taking rash actions is not always the answer. One of the advantages of having a system where individual businesses can adapt and make their own decisions according to their needs is that recovery will come. And it will be swifter than having a topdown approach where the government dictates what happens.

re the party for the workers and want people to be raised out of poverty and give opportunities for the under privileged. As well as attacking schools which raise standards of education, whilst providing bursaries for those who can’t afford the fees, Labour will exclude you if you are classed as White British. Grants are available to encourage people to train as teachers, but only if you are from an ethnic minority.

last summer.

“Although this application was refused in July 2024, it is clear from reading the delegated report that there was no objection to the swimming pool element and that the refusal was solely in regard to the proposed three shepherd huts (i.e. siting and conflict with planning policy),” the statement says, adding: “A revised application for the provision of the covered swimming pool has recently been resubmitted for consideration by the council.

“A further stage of the business is to convert the two-storey traditional stone coach house building, located to the immediate east of the main house, for use as holiday accommodation, thus strengthening my client’s holiday let business.

An officer report recommended approval for the holiday let, comprising five bedrooms over two levels of accommodation with associated car parking provision and external amenity space, said The application was conditionally approved by county planners.

What Trump is doing is targeting countries where the state control has run rampant on trading and businesses. It is no surprise that China has tariffs of 104%, and the EU has had 20%, whilst the UK is on the baseline of 10%.

This is a clear indication that it is governments rather than business that Trump is directing his attention. I think he has got that right and while there will be winners and losers it is free trading which will ultimately triumph.

Whilst many commentators have criticised Trumps’ tariffs, they remain silent on the additional burdens placed on schools and businesses here. There is a triple whammy of raising National insurance, removing tax relief for charity-run schools and adding VAT to school fees. This is nothing to do with raising additional income for the country but is an attack on aspiration. What is it with Labour and their hatred of anyone who wishes to better themselves?

They claim that they

Looking at the state of teacher recruitment and retention in Wales it is nonsensical to take this approach. I say it is also racist. I am sure there are many white students who would make brilliant teachers, but Labour don’t want them. It doesn’t fit their discriminatory narrative that causes division and resentment. It also undermines the achievements of those who do succeed.

Labour’s double standards doesn’t end there. The outrage that David Lammy and others had when two labour MPs were refused entry into Israel is hypocrisy of the highest standard. Lammy led the calls for Trump to be banned from the UK, because he didn’t like his politics. You can’t have it both ways. Calling for our MPs to be allowed access to a sovereign nation, whilst banning elected representatives from our country.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTI c ES

PIc TURE OF THE WEEk!

by

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK

DEAR SIR,

WE’RE inviting groups and organisations across Wales to celebrate their communities this Mental Health Awareness Week 12-18 May. During the week, we are recognising the power of the community to support good mental health. We can find communities in different places and can belong to more than one. Community is an important protective factor for our mental health. It not only

helps tackle social isolation, but it gives us a sense of belonging, safety, purpose and support.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, we are encouraging groups and organisations to host events and activities to showcase the great work they do; bringing people together and supporting wellbeing. Everyone is also invited to take part in our fun Wear It Green Day activities.

More information and resources to get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week are available on our website www.mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw.

Jemma Wray Head of Wales Mental Health Foundation

PERSONALISED LETTERS TO LITTLE ONES

DEAR SIR,

HERE at children’s charity the NSPCC, we’ve teamed up with Hopper the Easter Bunny to deliver personalised letters to little ones (and the young at heart) this Spring.

As well as a personalised illustrated letter you’ll find a recipe for Hopper’s Easter Rocky Road Bars; an activity sheet to help you organise an Easter egg hunt, with cut-out

eggs for the children to find, each featuring fun facts about some Spring-time animals; and DIY Easter Egg Bunting. Each pack costs £3 which covers the cost of designing, printing and delivering your pack. Additional voluntary donations can also be made. Letters can be ordered online at shop.nspcc.org.uk between now and 6 April and will arrive in time to keep your little bunnies entertained over the bank holiday period.

Hannah Pitt NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager for South Wales

Jenny Ambler

Death Notices

S ARAH O WEN

Passed away on April 2nd, aged 84 years.

Beloved wife of Wynne, dearly loved mother of Jeremy and Alice, a much-loved grandmother.

Funeral service Monday 14th April at Llanrhian Church at 2.30pm, followed by interment in Berea Chapel Cemetery.

Enquiries to W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter (01437) 720537

B LODWEN M AY W OOD

of Haverfordwest

Blodwen passed away peacefully on the 18th March aged 94 years.

Beloved wife to the late Richard, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

The Funeral Service will take place on Friday 11th April, 10.00am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

J EAN V INCENT

of Tenby

The death occurred at Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthen on 28th March of Mrs Jean Vincent, she was aged 79.

Jean is survived by her husband Alec, son James and daughters Beverley and Sarah.

The funeral service will take place at Holyrood and St Teilo’s Catholic Church, Tenby on Wednesday 23rd April at 10am followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11.30am.

There will be family flower only, donations if desired, can be made payable to “Wales Air Ambulance” c/o

Funeral Directors, W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, The Old Rectory, The Norton, Tenby or Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR or via www.rossitersfunerals.co.uk

PAMELIA

M ARY H ARE of Pembroke

The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Friday 21st. March of Mrs. Pamelia Mary Hare of Mansel Street, Orange Gardens, Pembroke. She was 85.

Pam was much loved by all who knew her and she will be greatly missed by all her family and many friends and colleagues.

The funeral will take place on Monday 14th. April with a service at St. Mary’s Church, Angle at 12.00. noon followed by interment in the Churchyard.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Pam for Angle Church, may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, who are carrying out the arrangements.

DAVID A NDREW (A NDY M AC ) M C N ALLY

of Pembroke

Andrew passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday 19th. March after a short illness aged 67 years.

Dearly loved husband of Jayne, dad of Cheryl and Ross, father-inlaw of Geraint and Hannah, grandad of Nieve, James, Paddy, Tomos and Joseph Andrew.

The funeral will take place on Friday 11th. April with a Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic

Church, Pembroke Dock at 11.45.am followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 1.45.pm.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Andy for The Paul Sartori Foundation may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, who are carrying out the arrangements.

W YNN K NOTT of Newport

Suddenly but peacefully on Wednesday 19th March at Withybush Hospital, Wynn of Maes Ingli, Newport.

Beloved husband of Chris, cherished step-father and Grandad. A dear brother, brother-in-law and uncle, Wynn will be sadly missed by all his family, friends and former work colleagues.

Funeral service on Saturday 12th April at St Mary’s Church, Newport at 11:30am followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn, Narberth at 1pm.

Family flowers only.

Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to the ‘RNLI’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

H YWEL VAUGHAN E VANS

of Maenclochog

Peacefully on Saturday 22nd March 2025 at Withybush Hospital, Hywel, Hafan Dawel, Maenclochog, late of Blaensawd aged 93 years. Dear husband of the late Kitty, caring father of Eifion, Eirwyn, Elfrys, Emyr and Eurig, respected father in law of Steve, proud datcu of Carys, Ruth and Lox and a loving great grandfather of

Joseia, Roxy and Micah.

Public funeral service at Llandeilo Chapel on Tuesday, 15th April at 12:30pm, followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2:30pm.

Family flowers only. Donations in memory if desired towards Llandeilo Chapel or Dementia Cymru received by Dennis Jones, Funeral Directors, Maesawelon, Efailwen, SA66 7UX. Tel: 01994 419561.

J ILL S TEPHENS

of Kilgetty

A small service in memory of Jill will take place on Monday 14th April, 2pm at Hamilton Court

Enquires to Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel 01646 693180.

J OHN G EORGE B RIAN R EED

of Long House, Wiston.

Brian passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on the 18th March aged 95 years.

Beloved Husband to the late Jean, Father to Judith and Grandfather to Robbie. He will be sadly missed by his family and all who knew him.

The Funeral Service will take place on Thursday 10th April, 1:00pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only, donations in lieu of flowers for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales can be made sent c/o Mr. Malcolm Lewis, Highways, Clarbeston Road, Haverfordwest, SA63 4XB.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

SERVIcES

CARAVANS

CAR PARTS

CARPENTRY

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY

CLEARANCES

ELECTRICAL

FENCING, DRIVEWAYS AND LANDSCAPING FABRICATION

GARDENING

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRY

SCRAP METAL

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

STORAGE TANKS

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VAN CONVERSIONS WINDOWS

SPORT

Solva sailor strikes gold

PEMBROKESHIRE sailor Micky Beckett has once again cemented his place among the sport’s elite, securing his fourth consecutive victory in the ILCA 7 men’s dinghy class at the prestigious Trofeo Princesa Sofia regatta.

Hailing from the coastal village of Solva, Beckett sealed the title with a day to spare — a remarkable feat that underscores his dominance on the international circuit and sends a strong signal ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic campaign.

His win was one of nine

medals earned by the British Sailing Team in Mallorca, with Great Britain finishing top of the medal table ahead of Australia and China.

Beckett, who has steadily climbed the ranks in recent years, is now one of the standout figures in British sailing. Known for his consistency and calm approach on the water, the 29-year-old has made the ILCA 7 fleet his own, and his continued success reflects the strength of both his individual talent and the support around him.

“If this week is anything to

go by, the future is bright for the British Sailing Team,” said performance director Mark Robinson — a nod to Beckett’s influence and the broader success of the squad.

While Beckett led the charge, fellow Brit Emma Wilson also delivered a standout performance. The two-time Olympic bronze medallist won 14 of 21 races in the iQFOiL foiling windsurfing class, earning her the prestigious Princess Sofia Trophy — the event’s top honour.

“It’s crazy – I wasn’t expecting it at all,” said Wilson,

25. “There are names on this trophy like Ben Ainslie, people I’ve looked up to since I was a kid. To have my name on there now is pretty cool.”

The British team also took home gold in the 49erFX (Saskia Tidey and Freya Black), 470 (Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris), and Nacra 17 (John Gimson and Anna Burnet). There were silver medals for Lily Young (Formula Kite) and Elliot Hanson (ILCA 7), while Ellie Aldridge (Formula Kite) and Daisy Collingridge (ILCA 6) each claimed bronze.

Jasmine Joyce-Butchers defends post-match dance

P EMBROKESHIRE ’ S

Jasmine Joyce-Butchers has defended her decision to join a post-match TikTok dance following Wales’ heavy Six Nations loss to England at the Principality Stadium.

The Red Roses ran in 11 tries in a 46-0 win in front of a record crowd of over 21,000 in Cardiff. After the final whistle, Joyce-Butchers and England prop Sarah Bern appeared in a live BBC Sport segment, where they joined pundits in a short dance routine—similar to one Bern had performed the previous week after England’s

win over Italy.

The moment drew criticism on social media, with some fans calling it inappropriate given the scale of the defeat and questioning the Welsh player’s professionalism.

Joyce-Butchers, a threetime Olympian, responded via Instagram:

“If we don’t love what we do, then why do it?

Yes I am upset, gutted, sad and disappointed with the result, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be happy, excited and smiling to see such an amazing crowd supporting us.

Remember to be kind people and put your energy and effort into people who want and accept you for who you are.”

Her club, Bristol Bears, also voiced support:

“Jasmine embodies the creativity, passion, and flair that makes Bears a special club.

We believe in empowering players to express themselves authentically, both on and off the pitch.”

Despite the backlash, JoyceButchers stood by her actions, emphasising the importance of joy and self-expression, even in defeat.

RUgbY

DAN BIGGAR TO RETIRE

WALES and British & Irish Lions fly-half to hang up his boots following final campaign with Toulon

Dan Biggar, one of Welsh rugby’s most distinguished modern-day figures, has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season, drawing the curtain on an exceptional 18-year career.

The 35-year-old playmaker, known for his composure, tactical intelligence and unyielding competitive edge, confirmed the news via social media, stating, “There comes a point where you just know, not because of anything in particular, but someone once said to me ‘when you know, you’ll know’.”

Biggar, who has been plying his trade with French Top 14 side Toulon since November 2022, will conclude his playing days there before turning a new chapter in life. He joined the club following a successful spell in England with Northampton Saints, and despite a challenging final season in France, he leaves with his head held high.

“I also know that the last 12 months haven’t quite gone as I’d hoped with Toulon, it’s been tough and setbacks teach you a lot more about yourself and over the last 12 months I’ve learned a huge amount,” he admitted. “There’s no real perfect moment to walk away, but this does feel like the right one.”

Biggar’s international career is one for the history books. Capped 112 times for Wales, he amassed over 600 points in a Test career that spanned 15 years. His swansong in the red jersey came during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Along the way, he played a central role in three Six Nations triumphs — including the celebrated Grand Slam in 2019 — and served as captain under

Wayne Pivac.

A two-time British & Irish Lion, Biggar featured in three Test matches during the 2021 tour of South Africa, adding yet another prestigious chapter to his rugby résumé.

“Rugby has given me everything. I threw myself into this game at 17 and it’s given me a life that I could never have imagined. I’ve lived out my childhood dreams for the best part of two decades and I’m so, so grateful for that,” he said in a heartfelt reflection.

His journey began in earnest at Gorseinon RFC and Gowerton Comprehensive in Swansea, before a season with Swansea RFC in the Welsh Premiership. It was at the Ospreys, however, that Biggar truly made his mark. Over 11 seasons, he racked up 221 appearances and 2,203 points — becoming the region’s alltime leading scorer and helping secure two Pro12 titles in 2010 and 2012.

Paying tribute to one of the key figures in his early development, Biggar said: “A special mention has to go to Sean Holley, who took a chance on a young, cocky 17-year-old when public opinion told him to do otherwise. Who knows how things would have turned out if you hadn’t, so thank you Sean.”

In 2018, Biggar moved to Northampton Saints, where he enjoyed a successful stint — notching up 69 appearances, lifting the Premiership Rugby Cup, and guiding the side to league knockout stages in his debut season.

Looking back, Biggar named earning his first Welsh cap in 2008, reaching his 100th Test in 2022, and representing the Lions as standout milestones. Yet, his greatest pride lies

DIVISION ONE (WEST)

FELINFOEL 26 – TENBY UNITED 57

TENBY UNITED wrapped up their league campaign with a stunning 57-26 away win over Felinfoel, notching up their 16th win from 18 games – but still falling agonisingly short of promotion.

Despite running in nine tries and completing an emphatic double over their Carmarthenshire opponents, Tenby were edged out by just a single point in the final table, with Aberystwyth claiming the lone promotion spot after winning convincingly at Kidwelly.

Flanker Dan Colley led the charge with four tries, showcasing his trademark support play. No.8 Dom Colman crossed twice, while winger-turned-fly-half Gwion Jones – covering for the injured Lloyd Thomas, who is out of the KO Cup Final with a broken leg – also grabbed a try, as did Matthew Lewis.

closer to home.

“The thing I’m most proud about is being able to give my family opportunities in life, that’s what means the most to me and what I’m most proud of,” he said.

He also paid an emotional tribute to his late mother, who passed away four years ago: “The one person who isn’t here to say thank you to is my mum, who sadly passed away four years ago. Everything I’ve done over the last 18 years is because of her.”

Biggar acknowledged that wearing Wales’ number 10 jersey had its challenges, but believes those experiences shaped him both on and off the pitch.

“It hasn’t always been plain sailing and easy, but it helped make me a stronger person and player,” he reflected.

With retirement looming, Biggar says he’s grateful to be stepping away on his own terms, healthy and ready for the next chapter.

“I’m choosing to retire, which a lot of sportspeople don’t get to do when they’re healthy, and I feel very grateful and excited about what’s coming next. Rugby will always be a part of me, but now it’s time to give a little bit of time back to my family in this beautiful part of the world and see what challenges come next.”

As he signed off, Biggar offered his final thanks — not just to the game, but to everyone who made the journey worthwhile.

“I can honestly say I gave it everything I had and now it’s time for something new. Thank you, diolch, merci.”

Geraint Jones added six conversions to the tally, while veteran Alex Jenkins, prop Hywel Baker and skipper Tom Barrass were all influential in a performance brimming with attacking intent.

Felinfoel replied with two tries apiece from Dion Jenkins and Cian O’Reilly, while Aled Roberts slotted three conversions to secure a bonus point.

Now, all eyes turn to the Knockout Cup Final – a highly-anticipated clash between Tenby and Aberystwyth, the league’s top two. With both sides having beaten each other once this season, a thrilling finale is in store.

mANDERWOOD PEmbROkESHIRE LEAgUE 2024/2025

GOODWICK UNITED are just one game away from completing a flawless league campaign after a dominant 3-0 victory away at Kilgetty.

Nathan Greene opened the scoring with a thumping header on 13 minutes, meeting Will Haworth’s pinpoint corner. Haworth then turned scorer just before half-time, glancing in Luke Hayward’s free-kick to double the lead.

Rhys Jones wrapped things up from the penalty spot after Rhys Dalling was brought down in the box.

Manager Chris O’Sullivan now turns his attention to the final fixture at Phoenix Park against Tenby, where his side will aim to complete an unbeaten league season.

SWIFTS CONFIRM MILFORD RELEGATION

MILFORD UNITED 0

MONKTON SWIFTS 4

MILFORD United’s relegation from Division One was confirmed on Saturday as Monkton Swifts cruised to a 4-0 win at Marble Hall.

Paul Miller was instrumental for the visitors, assisting goals for Billy Davis and Liam Butland before scoring one himself. Jack Clarke added a fourth after the break, converting from Ben Steele’s cross.

Monkton remain third, just ahead of Pennar Robins, with both sides battling for a top-three finish in the final weeks.

Milford now turn their attention to the Senior Cup Final against Hakin United.

WIzARDS AND VIKINGS SHARE

DERBY SPOILS

MERLINS BRIDGE 0

HAKIN UNITED 0

A TIGHT and tense derby between Merlins Bridge and Hakin United ended in a goalless draw at the Pembrokeshire Sports Ground.

Both teams had opportunities, with Mark Jones going close for Hakin and Mason Dolling striking the side netting. For the Wizards, substitute Ben Davies had the ball in the net, only for the flag to go up for offside.

Hakin now shift focus to the Senior Cup Final against Milford United, while Merlins Bridge can take heart from a resilient defensive performance.

PENNAR ROBINS STAY IN TOPFOUR HUNT

PENNAR ROBINS 3

CLARBESTON ROAD 1

PENNAR Robins kept their hopes of a top-three finish alive with a solid 3-1 win over Clarbeston Road at Bush Camp.

Ben Adams struck twice, either side of a Jamie Wilkes goal, to seal the win. Adams and Wilkes gave the hosts a 2-0 lead at the break, but Richard Bevan pulled one back for the visitors in the second half.

Adams netted his second in the 88th minute to put the result beyond doubt and keep Pennar in touching distance of Monkton Swifts, with two matches left to play.

Goodwick edge closer to perfect season Steffan

NARBERTH booked their place in the Second Division Cup Final following a dramatic 3-2 win over Camrose in an action-packed encounter at Herbrandston.

Steffan Williams was the Narbeths’ hero, scoring a superb hat-trick, including the all-important winner. Williams opened the scoring in the 26th minute, but Camrose responded swiftly with goals from Lewis Watts and Rhodri Howell to take a 2-1 lead into half-time.

Narberth rallied after the break, with Williams levelling in the 55th minute before completing his treble ten minutes

from time to secure a memorable win and a spot in the final.

GRIFFITHS MAGIC SENDS

Fishguard Sports sealed their place in the Second Division Cup Final with a composed 3-1 victory over a spirited Hakin United Reserves side.

Jack Griffiths stole the show with two spectacular free kicks—his first a low strike in the 15th minute, followed by a

sensational top-corner effort 13 minutes later. Greg Hughes then added a third, tapping in from close range after good work by Ieuan Llewellyn.

Griffiths had the chance to complete a hat-trick from the penalty spot early in the second half but was denied. Hakin grabbed a late consolation through Leon Pemberthy, but it was too little, too late.

Fishguard will now face Narberth in the Second Division Cup Final at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium on Tuesday, 23rd April (kick-off 7pm), in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.

mANDERWOOD PEmbROkESHIRE LEAgUE 2024/2025

Fixtures

15th April 2025

Division

Kilgetty

Milford

Fixtures

16th April 2025

Division

Division

Division

Camrose

Division

Milford

Division

Kilgetty

Solva sailor strikes gold