The Pembrokeshire Herald 11/07/2025

Man arrested after Oasis ticket scam exposed

A MAN has been arrested following a Pembrokeshire Herald investigation into claims that dozens of people were scammed out of thousands of pounds for VIP tickets to Oasis and Coldplay concerts which allegedly did not exist.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed on Tuesday (July 9) that a 42-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation.

He remains in police custody as the investigation continues.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “A 42-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and remains in police custody.”

The arrest follows an in-depth

Herald report published on Monday (July 8) which named David Alexander Gray as the man at the centre of a growing number of fraud allegations involving hospitality tickets for events at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

Victims from as far afield as Newcastle, York, Essex and Wiltshire say they were promised high-end packages for concerts and rugby matches, only to receive nothing.

VICtIMs sPeAk Out

One of the first to come forward was Brian Janes, who travelled from Newcastle to see Oasis with his brother after recovering from open heart surgery.

He told The Herald: “It was a weekend I’d been focused on for six months during recovery. We had to meet David outside the stadium due to QR code problems — and there were no tickets.”

Jess Bonnici, whose family had previously bought tickets from the man in question, said: “He told us to meet him at the gate. We had tickets from him before. But this time, nothing

came. The stadium confirmed we weren’t on the list — and said he had scammed up to 40 people.”

The Herald understands that confirmed victims estimate total losses of more than £20,000, with many citing promises of private boxes, VIP hospitality and access to multiple major events.

On Tuesday, BBC Wales Today broadcast a segment and outlining the allegations. The Herald was the first to report on the story on Monday, prompting dozens more victims to come forward.

The man arrested has not yet been formally charged.

Dyfed-Powys Police are asking anyone affected by the scam to come forward. A dedicated reference number for the case is expected to be issued shortly.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police or email the Herald team.

If you believe you have been impacted by this case, contact our investigations team in confidence: investigations@herald.email

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Arrested: David Gray

the speculation Inn

David Gray was said to be staying in this caravan behind the pub

Council confirms over 1,200 court orders in single day and defends enforcement

PeMBROkesHIRe COuNtY

COUNCIL has confirmed that 1,270 liability orders were granted at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (July 7), in one of the largest single-day enforcement actions in the county’s history.

The council made a formal complaint to the court involving 1,500 defendants over unpaid council tax. Of those, 85 accounts were settled prior to the hearing, and 142 cases were withdrawn, but the vast majority proceeded to formal enforcement.

Court records seen by The Pembrokeshire Herald show that the orders were granted under Regulation 34 of the Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992, following evidence given on oath by a council officer.

ONe IN every 40 hOMes affeCted

There are approximately 48,200 homes in Pembrokeshire. With 1,270 orders issued in a single day, the figures suggest that more than one in every 40 households in the county were affected.

Council tax arrears in Wales have risen by 139 per cent since before the pandemic, with total debt across the country now standing at £263 million.

In Pembrokeshire, the council is currently owed £8.75 million in unpaid council tax. That figure has risen by around £370,000 in the last 12 months.

COuNCIl: ReCOVeRY Is esseNtIAl tO MAINtAIN PuBlIC seRVICes

In response to questions from The Pembrokeshire Herald, the council defended the scale of enforcement, saying the action was “in line with the Council’s recovery policy.”

A spokesperson said: “Receiving council tax income is vital if key services are to continue to be delivered to the citizens of Pembrokeshire.”

When asked what support was offered to vulnerable residents before enforcement, the council said it follows a set process:

• Reminder letters are sent when payments are missed,

• Further contact is made before the matter is passed to enforcement agents,

• If there is no response, the case proceeds to court.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The council added that its enforcement agents are “trained in dealing with vulnerable tenants and have a welfare team for appropriate cases.”

HelP Is AVAIlABle — But ResIDeNts Must ACt eARlY

The council told the Herald that it “actively encourages residents to engage with the recovery team,” and that payment arrangements can be made.

A spokesperson added: “We will review each case and can agree payment agreements for the debt. We will advise taxpayers to claim any relevant discounts and/or apply for council tax reduction. We will refer them to Citizens Advice where they can obtain wider debt support.”

Pembrokeshire residents who are struggling to pay are encouraged to contact the council directly before the matter reaches court.

WHAt Is A lIABIlItY ORDeR?

A liability order is a court order that gives the council legal powers to collect unpaid council tax. Once granted, it allows the council to:

• Instruct bailiffs (enforcement agents) to collect the debt,

• Deduct money from wages or benefits,

• Place a charging order on a property,

• Or in rare cases, pursue committal to prison for wilful refusal to pay.

(Committal to prison for council tax debt is extremely rare. In Wales, the number of such cases is usually in single digits each year. Most councils avoid this route unless they believe someone is deliberately avoiding

payment and ignoring court orders.)

Bailiff enforcement — your rights

Council tax debt is a priority debt, meaning it should not be ignored. However, residents have rights and protections.

• Bailiffs cannot force entry into a home for council tax unless they have previously entered peacefully and a Controlled Goods Agreement has been signed.

• They must not threaten to “break in” unless legally permitted to do so, and must leave if a vulnerable person is alone in the property.

• Fees are capped by law and must be clearly explained.

suPPORt AND ADVICe

If you are struggling with council tax arrears:

Contact Pembrokeshire County Council to discuss your options before the debt escalates.

• Ask about the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, single person discount, or any exemptions you may qualify for.

• Contact Citizens Advice, StepChange, or National Debtline for free, independent help.

• If you are vulnerable, notify the council immediately and ask them to apply their safeguarding and vulnerability policy.

The Pembrokeshire Herald is continuing to report on the scale and impact of local council tax enforcement. If you have received a court summons or contact from a bailiff and would like to share your story, please email: news@ herald.wales

Pembroke Dock rape charge case sent to Crown Court

A MAN accused of raping a woman in Pembroke Dock will appear at swansea Crown Court next month.

CAMERON PURDY, 20, of no fixed abode, is alleged to have carried out the

offence on February 16, 2023. The charge relates to an allegation of oral rape. He appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (July 1), where magistrates declined jurisdiction

due to the seriousness of the offence. Purdy was granted bail and is scheduled to enter a plea at Swansea Crown Court on August 1.

Community effort raises over £6,000 in memory of Honey 2,400 cupcakes baked and sold in emotional fundraiser for Wales Air Ambulance

A ReMARkABle community fundraiser in memory of a Milford Haven schoolgirl has raised more than £6,000 — with cakes still flying off the shelves.

The event, called Honey’s Big Birthday Bake Off, saw friends and family of 12-year-old Honey Foxx French come together to bake, decorate and box an astonishing 2,400 cupcakes, sold in boxes of six to raise money for Wales Air Ambulance.

Honey passed away unexpectedly at her home in October last year. This month would have marked her 13th birthday, and her family chose to honour her memory by supporting the service that helped them on the day of her death.

Led by Honey’s mother, Jessica Foxx, and her partner Alan French, the bake off took place in Johnston, with supporters working round the clock to meet demand. The original goal was to sell 100 boxes — but by the end, they had taken 400 orders, with many more donations still coming in.

Jessica said: “We’ve cried happy tears doing this for Honey. The support has been overwhelming. I never imagined it would grow this big.”

In the days leading up to the main bake off, additional fundraising events

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

took place — including a raffle and a lively challenge dubbed Honey Bees Wax Off, which saw family friend Kevin Higgins undergo a sponsored chest wax in the pub to boost donations.

Photos shared online captured the scale of the effort, showing tables stacked with yellow cupcake cases, trays of pink sugar decorations, and box after box carefully packed and labelled with Honey’s name and a bee-themed tribute.

Volunteers described the atmosphere as “emotional but electric,” with many working into the early hours to make sure every last cupcake was finished and delivered on time.

The fundraiser has now surpassed £6,000, all of which will go to support the Wales Air Ambulance’s lifesaving work.

A spokesperson for the charity said they were “incredibly grateful” for the donation, calling it “a beautiful way to honour Honey’s memory and help save lives across Wales.”

The family say they’re not done yet, with more boxes still being collected and ideas already forming for next year.

Pembrokeshire women continue to demand justice over pension scandal

P e MBRO kes HIR e women born in the 1950s say they have been left “ignored, impoverished and discriminated against” by successive governments, as calls grow for urgent mediation with the Department for Work and Pensions ( d WP) over the state pension age scandal.

Campaigners from the local Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen West 1950s women’s group said they were encouraged by the outcome of a backbench debate held in Westminster last week (July 3), where MPs across parties backed calls for dialogue and redress.

The group has been vocal for over a decade, claiming that thousands of women in west Wales were never properly informed that their state pension age had risen from 60 to 66 – leaving many struggling to survive after retiring or being forced out of work early.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

debate. While Plaid Cymru MP Ben Lake responded and gave a powerful speech in support, Labour MP Henry Tufnell failed to reply to the request.

In Parliament, Mr Lake said: “It is outrageous that the Government is dismissing outright the ombudsman’s findings. The women affected are pragmatic – they are willing to talk. Why force them into long, drawnout legal battles? Justice is already overdue.”

He added that over 300,000 women had died waiting for redress, equivalent to “one woman dying every 12 minutes.”

a de C ade O f de L ay

Campaign organiser Jackie Gilderdale said local women had directly appealed to both Pembrokeshire MPs to speak at the

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) found in 2024 that the DWP had committed maladministration in failing to inform women properly about the pension changes. But campaigners say the investigation process was deeply flawed, having ignored key evidence and voices from Welsh groups.

Jackie Gilderdale, who has helped hundreds of women locally,

said: “One woman in our group, who worked for Hywel Dda Health Board, planned her retirement at 60. She had no idea the pension age had changed until I met her in 2018. She had to scrap her plans to care for her husband and was left financially devastated.”

Campaigners argue that women born in the 1950s were already disadvantaged throughout their working lives – often earning less than men, receiving lower private pensions, and taking time off to care for children without support.

N O ex CU se f O r de L ay

During the debate, MP Rebecca Long Bailey said the decision to raise the pension age “was dumped on women overnight,” with no proper notice or support. She accused the Government of creating one of the worst social injustices in recent memory.

Campaign groups such as WASPI and 1950s Women of Wales have called for a mediation-based resolution, including early neutral evaluation and direct dialogue with ministers, instead of further court action.

They argue that redress must reflect both financial harm and gender discrimination, with proposals including an initial lump sum and further staged payments over five years.

The Treasury, campaigners point out, has saved over £181 billion through raising the pension age, and over £81 billion remains in the National Insurance Fund.

A Pe MBRO kes HIR e s CANDA l

Jackie Gilderdale added: “Pembrokeshire women have been badly let down. We were asked to follow due process – we did. We were told to wait for the ombudsman – we did. But the outcome has been ignored.

“We are calling for a full public inquiry and mediation now. The time for delays is over. This isn’t just about backpay – it’s about dignity, equality, and justice for thousands of women across west Wales.”

The Herald understands that campaigners will now seek to meet with Pembrokeshire’s MPs again to demand a formal response and renewed support for mediation.

Motorist banned after driving over the limit

A MOtORIst who admitted drinkdriving through Pembroke Dock just hours after consuming two pints of lager has been banned from the roads for 12 months.

David Davies, 37, was stopped

by police conducting routine checks on Western Way in the early hours of June 24. A roadside breath test proved positive, and further tests at the police station revealed he had 46 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The

legal limit is 35.

This week, Davies, of Bryniago, Llangadog, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates where he pleaded guilty to the drink-driving offence.

As well as receiving a 12-month driving disqualification, Davies was fined £200 and ordered to pay a £200 victim surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs.

Pe MBRO kes HIR e VOIC es ‘ IGNOR e D ’

Tributes paid to NHS blood courier killed in A478 crash

the faMILy of a much-loved volunteer who died in a collision while delivering NHs blood supplies have paid tribute to him.

Timothy Minett, 78, known to family and friends as Tim, was riding a Blood Bikes Wales motorcycle when he was involved in a fatal crash with a white Volkswagen van on the A478 near Pentregalar, between Glandy Cross and Blaenffos, at around 6:20pm on Wednesday (July 2).

In a statement issued by DyfedPowys Police, Tim’s family described him as a “devoted husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend” and said they were “deeply saddened by the sudden loss”.

Tim was volunteering at the time of the collision, part of his ongoing work for Blood Bikes Wales – a charity that provides free, urgent transport of medical items for the NHS, including blood, donor milk and medical equipment.

The family have asked for privacy as they come to terms with his death and confirmed that, in line with Tim’s wishes, there will be no funeral.

A 56-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He remains in police custody.

The road was closed overnight while forensic collision investigators

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

examined the scene, reopening at 6:45am on Thursday (July 3).

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses, particularly anyone who was travelling the A478 between Glandy Cross and Blaenffos around the time of the incident and who may have dashcam footage.

Electric scooter rider failed to stop for police in Hakin

a 40-year-OLd man has admitted failing to stop for police while riding an electric scooter through Hakin.

Carl Whatling was spotted by officers just after 7:30pm on June 20. Despite police activating the blue lights and sirens on their vehicle, Whatling refused to stop.

“He drove the electric scooter uphill, across Observatory Avenue, and continued riding along the pavement,” said Crown Prosecutor

Sian Vaughan at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Whatling, of Observatory Avenue, Hakin, pleaded guilty to failing to stop for police, driving while disqualified, and driving without insurance.

District Judge Mark Layton adjourned the case for a pre-sentence probation report and imposed an interim driving disqualification. Whatling was released on unconditional bail and will be sentenced on July 29.

Retired police officer admits causing serious injury to biker

a fOrMer police officer has admitted causing serious injury to a motorcyclist following a road collision in Pembrokeshire in July 2024.

Alun Millichip, 58, admits a ‘momentary lapse of concentration’ as he drove his Land Rover across a junction in Spittal Cross on July 14, hitting approaching motorcyclist Dean Richards. As a result of the impact, Mr Richards sustained serious injuries.

After being shown dashcam

footage of the incident, District Judge Mark Layton this week adjourned sentencing to July 29 to enable a probation report to be prepared and to obtain additional information on the victim’s injuries.

Millichip, of Nant y Ffynnon, Letterston, was released on unconditional bail. An interim disqualification was imposed on the defendant pending his sentencing later this month.

Information can be reported via: https://orlo.uk/LgQ1a 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk 101

Quote reference: 25000544479

New rural crime strategy launched to protect countryside

WaLes’ countryside, wildlife and rural communities are set to benefit from strengthened protections under a new three-year strategy launched today (tuesday, July 9) at the Wales Wildlife & Rural Crime Conference.

The Wales Rural Crime Strategy 2025–2028 builds on the success of the previous joint initiative between Welsh police forces and the Welsh Government, which has helped coordinate efforts to tackle crimes affecting farms, animals, habitats, and rural residents. The updated strategy adopts a comprehensive ‘4P’ approach: prepare, prevent, pursue and protect.

Almost 100 delegates from across law enforcement, government, and conservation sectors gathered at the Welsh Government buildings in Cardiff for the event, chaired by Deputy Chief Constable Nigel Harrison of North Wales Police.

One of the major developments in the new strategy is the elevation of heritage crime as a full priority area, reflecting growing concerns about damage to historic sites and cultural assets across Wales.

Gwent Police also announced at the conference that it will expand its Rural Crime Team to boost enforcement and support for communities across the region.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Jason White, Head of Neighbourhood Policing in Gwent, said:

“Crime in rural areas can have a profound impact on victims and communities. Our Rural Crime Team works closely with partners, landowners, and local groups to address concerns and provide targeted support.

We’re increasing resources this year to help tackle the types of crime that harm livelihoods, isolate individuals, and

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

damage trust.”

the new strategy retains six priority areas, now including:

• Bird Crime

• farm Crime

• Habitats

• Heritage Crime

• Mammals and european Protected species

• Networking Rural support services

The latter uniquely recognises the need to address mental health and wellbeing in isolated rural areas.

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said:

“Wildlife and rural crime are issues of national and international concern. These are not only crimes against nature and people, but also often linked to wider harmful behaviours, including serious organised crime.

Our partnership approach—between government, police, and both statutory and non-governmental partners—is essential. Without that collaboration, much of this work simply couldn’t happen.”

Rob Taylor QPM, the Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator, added:

“Our goal is to support those who live and work in rural Wales, protecting world-class farming, rich historical sites, and wildlife habitats.

Strategic collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, and I’m proud that this updated strategy sets out a clear path forward.”

Highways officer fined after cocaine driving conviction

A PeMBROkesHIRe highways maintenance officer has received a four-figure fine after admitting to driving with cocaine and its metabolite, benzoylecgonine, in his system.

Brett Iles, 37, was stopped by police officers on March 22 after they discovered that his vehicle was not covered by valid third-party insurance. During questioning, Iles admitted he had taken cocaine the night before.

Subsequent blood tests revealed that he had 39 micrograms of cocaine and 240 micrograms of benzoylecgonine per litre of blood in his system. The legal limits are 10 and 50 respectively.

Iles, a father-of-two from North

NFU Mutual recently reported that rural crime claims in Wales rose from £2.4 million in 2023 to £2.8 million in 2024. However, overall rural crime rates remain lower in Wales than in many parts of England.

Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Samuel Kurtz MS said: “This announcement will ring hollow with Welsh rural communities, who have seen rural crime statistics increase here in Wales, while Scotland and England have seen a decrease.

“I’ve raised repeatedly the threat of

quad bike theft, livestock worrying, fly grazing and rural crime more broadly in the Senedd, and while I welcome the strategy, there is much more to be done.

“The Welsh Labour Government’s track record when it comes to supporting rural communities is weak, and I know voters are welcoming the chance to kick them out of office next May.”

The Welsh Government has confirmed funding for the Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator role will continue for another three years.

Close, Saundersfoot, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he pleaded guilty to both drug driving charges and to driving without insurance.

“He’d taken cocaine the night before and thought he was ok to drive,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd.

“But obviously, he wasn’t.”

Mr Lloyd told the court that Iles earns £800 a week in his role as a highways maintenance officer, but now fears he will lose his job as a result of the conviction.

Magistrates fined Iles £1,200 and ordered him to pay a £480 court surcharge and £85 in costs. He was also disqualified from driving for 14 months.

Monkton man sentenced for theft and assault at Pembroke Co-op

A MONktON man who stole items from a Pembroke supermarket and threatened a member of staff with a bottle of vodka has been sentenced.

William Roberts, 22, was spotted loitering outside the Co-op store on June 17 before entering to make a purchase.

“The store worker, Simon Price, recognised him from previous incidents,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week. “The defendant entered the store several times, bought an item and left each time.”

However, moments later, Roberts returned and told the staff member he was going to take a bottle of vodka without paying.

“Mr Price told him to stop, but Roberts held the bottle in his right hand and raised it towards him,” added Ms Vaughan. “Mr Price felt apprehensive, unsure of what Roberts intended to do.”

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mr Price described Roberts’ behaviour as “unacceptable.”

“We suffer major losses because of people like the defendant who come in and shoplift. It’s unacceptable,” he said.

Probation officer Julie Norman told the court that Roberts’ actions had been fuelled by alcohol.

a £114 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

He was given a 12-month community order, including ten rehabilitation activity days and a 90day alcohol monitoring programme.

An exclusion order was also imposed, banning him from entering the

“That day, he had bought alcohol, drank it, and then ran out of money. That’s when the incident happened,” she said. “Since then, he’s stopped drinking and is trying to address the issues that alcohol is causing in his life.” Roberts, of Marshall Road, Monkton, pleaded guilty to theft and common assault.

Road closed after building fire

tHe B4333 was closed in both directions between Adpar and Newcastle emlyn on sunday evening (July 6) due to a building fire.

Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 7:30pm, and Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the closure on social media, urging motorists to avoid the area and find alternative routes.

The road was closed from the junction with the B4571 to the B4570 while fire crews dealt with the incident. No details about the building involved or potential injuries have yet been released.

At 8:35pm, the road was declared safe and reopened to traffic.

Thank you to readers who followed our live blog coverage as the situation unfolded.

Milford man banned for three years

MILfOrd haveN motorist Wyndham Hughes has received a three-year driving ban after admitting to his second drink-driving offence within a decade.

Police were alerted on June 21 to reports that a Ford Mondeo was being driven through Haverfordwest by a suspected drunk driver. Officers later located the vehicle and found it was being driven by Hughes, 52, of Larch Road, Mount Estate, Milford Haven.

A roadside test revealed 67 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – almost double the legal limit of 35. Hughes appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week where he pleaded guilty to the offence. He was disqualified from driving for three years, fined £180, and ordered to pay a £72 victim surcharge and £85 in court costs.

Pembroke Co-op. He must pay £19.25 in compensation to the store, along with

Council accused of ‘abandoning’ beach dog rules

PeMBROkesHIRe COuNtY

COuNCIl is facing mounting criticism over what appears to be a near-total collapse in enforcement of seasonal dog bans on some of Wales’ most popular beaches.

Emails, FOI responses, and photographic evidence obtained by The Pembrokeshire Herald show that between 1 and 8 May 2025, the council issued no fines or warnings for breaches of dog restrictions on beaches

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

such as Tenby and Saundersfoot. Further figures reveal just 2 warnings were recorded across the entire county during May.

This contrasts sharply with 2024, when the council issued 45 fines in May, and a total of 234 fines over the summer months.

Local resident Tony Lewis, who

Council denies bridge too short

PeMBROkesHIRe COuNtY

COuNCIl has strongly denied claims that its much-discussed new pedestrian bridge in Haverfordwest has been fabricated several feet too short.

The Herald contacted the council on Friday (July 4) after receiving multiple reports that the bridge— dubbed ‘Instagrammable’ due to its modern design and anticipated role in boosting the town’s image—was too short for its intended span.

A council spokesperson said: “That is absolutely false information and should not be reported as anything but.”

However, speculation continues locally, with town centre traders and residents voicing concern about delays and a lack of visible progress.

A source close to the project told The Herald: “Why has it not been installed yet? They have had to make

adjustments to the foundations.”

Adding to the uncertainty, a town councillor who asked not to be named told The Herald he had been informed that the fabricators had used the original bridge as a reference point for measurements—but that the structure was now reportedly around 15 to 20cm out.

The bridge is part of a wider regeneration project aimed at revitalising Haverfordwest and attracting more footfall to the town. While the structure has been promoted as a potential landmark for tourists and social media users, it has also attracted criticism over its cost, design and the ongoing disruption.

No updated completion date has yet been provided by the council.

The Herald will continue to investigate and publish updates as they become available.

has led a months-long campaign for enforcement, says the current situation is “a joke” and accuses the council of failing to uphold the standards required for Blue Flag status.

“I’ve lost count of the number of dogs I’ve seen this year on restricted beaches,” Mr Lewis said. “The council says it’s patrolling, but the photos and FOI replies show otherwise. If they lose the Blue Flags, they’ve only got themselves to blame.”

Photos shared with The Herald show dogs off leads, tents pitched, and no enforcement officers in sight on Tenby’s main beach — all in breach of bylaws in effect from 1 May.

In email exchanges, Marc Owen, a senior officer at the council, admits the authority has no daily coverage, does not enforce on weekends, and only acts if officers happen to witness a breach.

He wrote: “We do not have the resource to cover all the beaches daily… enforcement officers will deal with issues if they are in the area.”

Councillor Chris Williams, representing Saundersfoot South, added: “Things have felt quite different this year. I’ve also noticed more dog owners pushing the boundaries, likely because they’re aware enforcement is limited and fines are unlikely.”

He acknowledged the importance of Blue Flag awards and called for clearer messaging from holiday firms and the council.

Mr Lewis has indicated he may escalate the matter to Keep Wales Tidy, which oversees the Blue Flag scheme, if no improvement is seen in July.

Pembrokeshire County Council has been approached for comment.

Milford Haven woman crashes after taking cocaine

A 43-YeAR-OlD Milford Haven woman has been given an interim driving ban after crashing her fiat 500 into two parked vehicles while under the influence of drugs.

Kathryn Kinsley, of St Peters Road, lost control of her car on the morning of Valentine’s Day (February 14) while driving down Priory Road in Milford Haven. Her vehicle struck two parked cars before coming to a stop.

Police officers attending the scene carried out a roadside drugs test, which returned a positive result. Subsequent blood analysis at the police station showed Kinsley had 32 micrograms of cocaine in her system – more than three

times the legal limit of 10 micrograms.

She also had 800 micrograms of benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, in her blood. The legal limit for this substance is 50 micrograms. Morphine was also detected, but the level was below the legal threshold.

Kinsley appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week where she pleaded guilty to two charges of drug driving.

Sentencing was adjourned until July 29 to allow probation reports to be prepared. She was granted unconditional bail, but District Judge Mark Layton imposed an interim driving ban until her next court appearance.

Cyberattack and warehouse blaze leave Owens Group with £3.2m loss

A CYBeRAttACk and a major warehouse fire caused “massive disruption” to operations at Owens Group, the Welsh familyrun logistics firm has confirmed, contributing to a pre-tax loss of £3.2 million.

The company, which is headquartered in Llanelli and operates across the UK, revealed in its annual accounts that the attack took place during the financial year ending June 30, 2024. The malicious cyber incident, which later appeared on the dark web, blocked access to internal systems and demanded a ransom payment.

Owens said the cyberattack knocked out all of its IT systems for several weeks, forcing the company to rebuild its network and reload data before operations could resume.

“This event massively disrupted operations across all areas of the group and caused significant issues for many months to come,” the directors said in their report. “The group also suffered a major fire in one of its warehouses which exacerbated the operational pressures being managed after the malicious cyber assault.”

expressing their “sincere gratitude” to employees who ensured customers experienced as little disruption as possible.

Turnover for the year fell by £5.2 million to £105.2 million. The company recorded a loss before interest costs of £1.24 million, with higher interest rates adding a further £1.1 million to its outgoings.

Despite the setbacks, the directors paid tribute to the “resilience, hard work and commitment” of Owens staff,

“While the staff worked tirelessly, operations were inefficient, additional costs were incurred and seasonal workload reduced due to these operational difficulties,” the report added.

The company said its diversified activities helped it weather the crisis,

and its strong balance sheet provided stability. It also reported an improved financial position in the period after the year end, driven by new contract wins, a return to full operational capacity, and tighter cost controls.

Owens Group confirmed that it has since invested in improved cyber protection and IT infrastructure, noting that the business “relies heavily on its IT systems to function efficiently.”

Haverfordwest man denies child abuse image charges

a 23-year-OLd man from Haverfordwest has appeared in court accused of making and possessing indecent and extreme pornographic images.

LUKE PHILLIPS, of Woodlands Park,

is alleged to have created three indecent images of a child in the most serious Category A classification, six images in Category B, and one in Category C.

He is also charged with possession of an extreme pornographic image

depicting an act of bestiality.

The alleged offences took place between December 2022 and June 2023.

PHILLIPS appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he pleaded not guilty to all four charges.

He elected to be tried at Swansea Crown Court. The trial is due to begin on August 8. He was granted unconditional bail.

Vehicle overturns on Old Hakin Road, prompting closure

A seCtION of road between Merlins Bridge and tiers Cross was closed for more than two hours on Monday (July 7) following a single-vehicle crash involving an overturned 4×4.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:10pm on Old Hakin Road. Emergency services attended the scene, and the road remained shut until around 4:50pm while recovery work took place.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police told The Herald: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a one-vehicle road traffic collision at approximately 2:10pm on Old Hakin Road. The vehicle

involved was a Ford 4×4, which had overturned. No injuries were reported.” Motorists were advised to avoid the area during the closure and seek alternative routes.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Fresh investigation launched into historic abuse in Church in Wales

a fOrMer senior bishop and a former vicar in the Church in Wales are under police investigation following fresh allegations of historic sexual abuse, the herald can reveal.

Anthony Pierce, the former Bishop of Swansea and Brecon who was jailed earlier this year for indecent assaults on a child, is now facing further claims dating back decades. South Wales Police have confirmed they are investigating both Pierce and another former cleric.

The Church in Wales has issued a statement apologising “unreservedly” to victims, acknowledging “failings” in how allegations were handled in the past. It follows multiple public accounts from survivors who say their reports were ignored or mishandled.

Concerns about Pierce’s conduct were reportedly raised with Church officials as early as 1986—thirteen years before he was made bishop.

Sinclair editor@herald.email

One alleged victim, Alisdair Adams, who was a student in Swansea in the 1980s, claims he was assaulted after being invited to Pierce’s home under the pretence of discussing chaplaincy work. He says the Church failed to act when the matter was reported.

Another man, Mark Dickey-Collas, described similar conduct and said he too was invited to Pierce’s home, where he was offered alcohol before the bishop allegedly made sexual advances.

The Church in Wales says it has no record of these reports but is now reviewing its response at the time. Pierce, who served as chaplain at Singleton Hospital and was later appointed bishop in 1999, was sentenced in March to four years and one month in prison after admitting five charges of indecent assault on

a boy under 16, carried out between 1985 and 1990.

In a separate account, a woman using the pseudonym Ruth says she was sexually assaulted by Brecon Cathedral’s former choirmaster David Gedge in 2001 when she was 17. She alleges that Bishop Pierce failed to act when the matter was brought to his attention in 2003. Gedge, who died in 2016, continued to work with children for another four years after the incident was reported.

Ruth told The Herald: “He didn’t assault me, but he enabled the man who did to stay in post and possibly hurt others. There was no accountability.”

The Church has confirmed there was no recorded disciplinary action taken at the time. An internal review is now underway into how the Church handled such allegations under Pierce’s leadership.

Other safeguarding failures have also come to light. In 2002, former priest Graham Sawyer raised concerns about inappropriate behaviour by a youth leader in Pontypool. He claims he was warned not to pursue the matter or risk legal consequences. That youth leader, Darren Jenkins, was later jailed in 2006 for the rape of a 16-year-old boy.

Mr Sawyer, who is himself a survivor of clergy abuse, has written

to members of the Senedd calling for an independent inquiry into the Church in Wales’s safeguarding culture. He said: “Whenever concerns were raised, they were either ignored or met with hostility. The Church closed ranks.”

The calls for an inquiry come after a number of high-profile safeguarding scandals within the Church. Just last month, the Archbishop of Wales retired following critical reports into his former diocese in Bangor, which highlighted blurred boundaries and a toxic internal culture, including heavy drinking among senior figures.

An independent panel member from the UK’s child sex abuse inquiry has now questioned whether the Church in Wales has done enough to implement reforms since earlier reviews.

Professor Sir Malcolm Evans, who helped lead that inquiry, said: “The Church in Wales needs to engage in serious reflection and undertake robust, external scrutiny.”

The Church has now pledged a full cultural review and safeguarding audit across all Welsh cathedrals. A spokesperson said: “There is no place in the Church for abuse, misconduct, or concealment. We are determined to rebuild trust and ensure the Church is a safe place for all.”

Tom

Manorbier school celebrates community spirit amid threat

Summer event to showcase resilience after fire and council proposal

MANORBIeR CIW Primary school will host a vibrant summer Celebration on saturday (Jul 12), as the community rallies around the village school in the

face of a proposed closure by Pembrokeshire County Council.

The school, which has already overcome significant hardship— including a devastating fire in

October 2022 that forced pupils and staff to temporarily relocate to Jameston Village Hall—continues to demonstrate determination and unity. Now, with its future uncertain, the Friends of Manorbier Primary School are inviting locals and supporters to an event celebrating everything that makes the school a cherished part of village life.

The celebration will take place at The Giraldus Centre in Manorbier from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. Organisers say the afternoon will be packed with entertainment, creative workshops, and community showcases for all ages.

Highlights include face painting, a pebble painting workshop led by one of the school’s pupils, and displays from afterschool clubs including art, Minecraft, Welsh, and games. There will also be a local ancestry exhibit featuring a rare 1821 census, and a chance to learn more about the

Ducklings Playgroup and Magpie Baby & Toddler Group.

Louis, the flamboyant creator of Happy Hippy Hair Ties, will return for a one-day appearance, while outside attractions include a bouncy castle, traditional games, and a visit from an ice cream van—weather permitting.

Food and refreshments will be available throughout the day, including Cleo’s Cakes, strawberries and cream, locally sourced veg, and family recipe booklets. A mini disco will close the event, following a storytelling session with acclaimed performer Phil Okwedy.

The Friends of Manorbier say the celebration is more than a fair—it’s a show of support for a school that continues to thrive despite adversity. Everyone is welcome to attend and show solidarity with the staff, children, and families who are determined to see Manorbier School survive and flourish in the years ahead

Carpenter banned from driving after drink-fuelled McDonald’s trip

A CARPeNteR has been handed a three-year driving ban after attempting to buy a McDonald’s meal following a night of heavy drinking in Haverfordwest.

Cameron Bulman, 25, was spotted by police driving his silver Audi A4 “very slowly” into the McDonald’s car park just after 1:00am on June 19. Officers noted that the restaurant was closed and decided to approach the vehicle.

“When they spoke to him, he told them he’d been in the pub,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan. A roadside breath test revealed Bulman had 61 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – the legal limit is 35.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that Bulman, of Coedfa, Llandre, had a previous conviction for drug-driving in March 2024.

Defence solicitor Alaw Harries said: “He’s extremely sorry and disappointed to be before the court again. The offence happened during a particularly stressful time at work, and he had driven only a short distance that night, looking for food after a long day.”

She added that Bulman relies on his ability to drive for his work as a carpenter.

Magistrates imposed a three-year driving disqualification, a £550 fine, £220 court surcharge, and £85 prosecution costs.

Port staff raise over £12,000 in 40-mile charity coastal challenge

staff from the Port of Milford Haven have smashed their fundraising target, raising over £12,000 for charity during a 40-mile hike around the Milford Haven Waterway.

The two-day Coastal Challenge took place on 26 and 27 June, with 17 staff walking a scenic but demanding stretch of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Starting at West Angle Bay, the group followed the southern shoreline to Cleddau Bridge, crossed to the north bank, and continued on to St Anne’s Head – covering over 40 miles in total.

The aim was to raise £10,000 for three charities: Alzheimer’s Society, British Heart Foundation and Young Lives vs Cancer. Thanks to generous donations from supporters, the team exceeded their goal by more than £2,000.

The route passed key sites along the

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

waterway, including Valero and South Hook LNG, allowing staff to engage with stakeholders and members of the public along the way.

Niall Yeomans, Head of Health, Safety and Security at the Port and organiser of the challenge, praised the efforts of all involved.

“Myself and the Coastal Challenge walkers would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated to these three important charities,” he said. “It gave the whole team an incredible boost to know we were making a difference.

“We’re also grateful to our colleagues who supported us behind the scenes –providing food, helping with logistics, and spreading the word to raise awareness

and donations.

“The whole challenge really captured the spirit of the Port’s values – working together, supporting the community, and doing something meaningful while enjoying the outdoors.”

The Port of Milford Haven encourages all staff to take part in volunteering and community initiatives that support its broader mission: building a prosperous,

inclusive community, protecting the environment, and ensuring a safe, accessible waterway.

As a Trust Port, it also operates a Community Fund to help support local projects and charitable causes.

More information about the Port’s Community Fund is available at: www.mhpa.co.uk/about/environmentsociety-governance/community

Tributes paid as RNLI coxswain Frankie George MBE passes away

tRIButes have been paid to former fishguard rNLI coxswain francis ‘frankie’ George MBe, who has died.

Mr George, who retired in 2002 after nearly twenty years of dedicated service, was described as one of the finest seamen of his generation. During his time with the lifeboat station, he took part in hundreds of service launches and was deeply respected throughout the lifeboat community.

Chris Williams, volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager and former lifeboat mechanic, said: “Francis (Frankie) George MBE was quite simply one of the

hundreds of lifeboat launches

finest seamen I have ever sailed with. He engendered respect from all who met him.

“His professionalism and skill were second to none, and he inspired total confidence in his crews, even in the foulest of weather.

“With his passing, Fishguard has lost one of its true characters. He will be missed by all who knew him. As a mark of respect, the flag above the lifeboat station will be flown at half-mast.”

The RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat crew extended their heartfelt condolences to Mr George’s family and friends.

Soapbox thrills return to Fishguard this weekend

A WIlD ride is promised in fishguard this saturday (July 12) as the town’s much-loved soapbox Derby returns in full force.

Organised by Fishguard and District Round Table, the annual event will once again see daring drivers pilot their homemade carts down the sloping streets of Penbanc and Rope Walk, skimming past Lota Park as they compete for the fastest time – and the biggest cheers.

From high-speed thrills to hairraising spills, the course is known for its tight corners, jumps and the occasional spectacular crash, all to the delight of hundreds of spectators.

Racing starts at 12:00pm and continues until 5:00pm, with five trophies on offer – including first, second and third

place, the ‘Derby Disaster’ prize for the most dramatic mishap, and a trophy for the best design. Last year’s winners are reminded to return their trophies to A&E Nichols on West Street ahead of the event.

This year’s entry process was run through Eventbrite, with registration now closed. A packed day of entertainment will accompany the racing, with familyfriendly fun in Lota Park including food stalls, bouncy castles, fairground rides and more.

All proceeds from the derby – along with other summer events including the raft race and carnival – are reinvested into local projects by the Round Table.

For updates and information, search “Fishguard Soapbox Derby” on Facebook.

Respected coxswain: Frankie George MBE led

from Fishguard (Pic: RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat)

Hundreds speak out as NHS waiting list scandal deepens in west Wales

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

responded in force — describing what they call a “shambolic” system, in which patients are being quietly dropped from waiting lists, given incorrect or late information, and forced to chase departments that never answer the phone.

letteRs NeVeR ARRIVeD — tHeN tHe APPOINtMeNt WAs GONe

One mother told the Herald she only discovered her young son had been removed from a waiting list for surgery after chasing a non-existent appointment.

February this year, she received a letter stating her daughter had missed an appointment and was being removed. She said: “We never got the original appointment, and when we finally got one for April, it was cancelled too. We’ve heard nothing since.”

VOICeMAIl CHAOs AND ‘NO WAY tO CONtACt ANYONe’

A recurring theme in the responses was departments not answering their phones, and voicemail systems that lead nowhere.

Following a public appeal by The Pembrokeshire Herald, readers

A WAVe of testimony from Pembrokeshire patients has revealed the true scale of the NHs waiting list crisis, with more than 100 people coming forward in just a few days to share stories of lost letters, cancelled appointments, and being removed from hospital care without ever being told.

“We never received the original letter. Then we turned up for a new date, only to be told it had been cancelled — but no one told us,” she said. “Later, they told me he’d been removed from the list for missing appointments we never knew about.”

In another case, a mother of a child with a rare genetic condition said her daughter was due annual dermatology reviews — but after a cancellation in 2023, she heard nothing for months. In

One woman, removed from a physio course after a single missed session, said: “I rang three times that day, left a full message explaining I was unwell, but no one ever rang me back. Then a letter came saying I’d been removed from the course. I tried ringing again — just voicemail. After the second time, I gave up.”

In another case, a patient who had been waiting for diabetic retinopathy screening since before Covid told us: “I’ve phoned multiple times over three years. Every time they say they’ll send

an appointment. I’ve given up.”

One former patient said he was moved to the back of the list after a missed telephone consultation — even though the doctor rang an hour early, and never called again.

GP faILUres aNd MIssed referraLs

Many readers raised concerns about general practice as well as hospitals, claiming referrals were never sent or followed up.

One woman wrote: “If my old GP had referred me straight away, I wouldn’t be in the state I am now. As soon as I changed surgeries, I was seen — but by then the damage was done. My life’s been ruined.”

Another reader commented that her father never got the treatment he needed, and believes that delays in

referrals contributed to his death.

tRANsPORt CANCellAtIONs AND “CHeAtING tHe sYsteM”

Several readers also raised concerns about non-emergency ambulance transport being cancelled at short notice, leaving vulnerable patients unable to attend appointments.

One woman said: “My dad has had his transport cancelled the night before appointments. We had no backup, and he missed it.”

Another reader wrote: “It’s all about stats. They remove people from the list, say they’ve missed appointments, and it makes the waiting time numbers look better. It’s cheating, plain and simple.”

Health board responds — but no figures yet

Hywel Dda University Health Board has responded to the Herald’s request

for comment, stating it follows strict national protocols and that any patient removed in error will be reinstated at their original place on the list.

In a statement, Director of Operational Planning and Performance

Keith Jones said: “We make every effort to send appointment letters in a timely manner and it is part of our procedure to phone a patient should we need to see them at short notice or to cancel appointments.

We have received feedback from some patients of incidences where appointment letters have not been received in a timely manner. We are reviewing the factors which may lead to late receipt of appointment letters and will implement any necessary improvements.”

The health board also promotes a digital system, Hywel Dda Post, for accessing appointment details online.

However, patients have reported issues with this too — particularly those without smartphones or digital literacy.

The board was unable to provide any figures on how many patients have been removed from waiting lists over the last five years and advised the Herald to submit a Freedom of Information request, which has now been done.

PuBlIC ANGeR GROWING

With more than 100 people coming forward in less than 48 hours, public anger is mounting. Many say they are being pushed toward private treatment, or simply left to suffer for years.

“I’ve been in chronic pain for over a decade waiting for three surgeries,” one woman wrote. “I’ve lost 11 years of my life.”

Another added: “It’s not just the health board. Welsh Labour has failed us for years. They have money for road signs and tree projects abroad — but not for our surgeries.”

WHAt’s Next?

The Herald will continue to investigate this issue and publish further updates once the FOI response is received.

We are compiling a formal submission to both the Health Board and the Welsh Government, including anonymised patient testimonies, to call for a public explanation of how waiting lists are managed — and how many patients have been quietly removed. If you or a family member has experienced anything similar — missed letters, unexplained removals, transport cancellations, or GP referral failures — you can contact us in confidence at:

investigations@herald.email

Milford Haven schools set for major redevelopment

PeMBROkesHIRe COuNtY COuNCIl’s Cabinet has given the green light to a major investment in Milford haven’s schools, approving a £141.6 million redevelopment plan that includes a new 3-11 Welsh medium school and a combined primary and secondary campus.

The preferred option will see a brand-new shared building constructed on the site of the current Milford Haven School. The facility will house both the

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

English medium primary and secondary schools, with shared services such as kitchens and sports areas. It will also include a 40-place Flying Start centre and a 36-place Learning Resource Centre for secondary pupils.

This marks a significant shift from previous proposals, which had focused

on refurbishing the existing Milford Haven School and Milford Haven CP School.

In addition to the shared campus, a Strategic Outline Case will be submitted to the Welsh Government for the development of a standalone Welsh medium primary school for children aged 3 to 11.

The total estimated cost of the scheme is £141,598,965, with £46.5 million to be funded through the council’s

capital programme.

Cabinet Member for Education and the Welsh Language, Cllr Guy Woodham, said at Monday’s (July 7) meeting: “The Milford Haven schools redevelopment represents the largest investment in the school estate ever undertaken by the Council. It will address serious concerns about the condition of the existing buildings and allow Milford Haven CP School to operate from a single site.

“The co-location of the English medium schools will deliver economies of scale through shared facilities and also opens the door to developing an ‘all-through’ school in the future, if that is what the community wants.

“The creation of a new Welsh medium school will meet growing demand in the Milford Haven area and allow Ysgol Caer Elen in Haverfordwest to extend its catchment area. This is a key step in delivering the aims of the Council’s Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.”

Cabinet members voted unanimously to support the plans.

Local member and Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Cllr Rhys Sinnett, welcomed the decision: “This is a great day. This has been such a long time coming. The redevelopment can’t come quickly enough.”

Cardigan residents rally in solidarity with Palestine

CARDIGAN residents came together on saturday (July 5) for a peaceful demonstration outside the Guildhall, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Protesters held placards reading “Ceasefire Now”, “Free Palestine”, and “Stop Bombing Gaza”, while waving Palestinian flags. The rally was one of a series of similar events held across Wales and the UK in recent weeks, including in Aberystwyth, Swansea, Cardiff and Bangor.

Campaigners also handed out leaflets raising concerns about QinetiQ, the weapons technology company that operates the MOD-Aberporth site at Parcllyn, near Cardigan. The leaflet claims QinetiQ is involved in the testing and training of drones and missile systems used in conflict zones.

As part of the protest, demonstrators promoted a forthcoming public meeting organised by the group West Wales Against Arms. The meeting is due to take place at 7:00pm on Monday, July 14, and will focus on what organisers describe as the complicity of local companies in the war in Gaza.

One protester told The Herald: “We are here because we believe ordinary people should speak out against war and occupation. Silence helps no one.”

Councillor slams ‘inconsiderate’ fly-tippers after roofing waste dumped

A COuNtY councillor has hit out after a pile of building waste, including broken roofing slates, timber, insulation, and packaging, was illegally dumped on a roadside verge in Pembroke.

The fly-tipping incident occurred

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

at the top of Norgan’s Hill, where a mound of slate tiles and other construction debris was discovered

discarded next to a gate leading into the countryside.

Pembrokeshire County Councillor Jonathan Grimes, who represents Pembroke St Mary South and Monkton, said the fly-tipping was not only antisocial but also a financial

burden on residents.

“Big thank you to those inconsiderate individuals who chose to illegally dump their leftover roof slates at the top of Norgan’s Hill,” Cllr Grimes posted on social media.

“That’s now going to cost us, as council tax payers, to have the council send out a team to collect and properly dispose of your waste. It’s completely unacceptable.”

The Herald understands that among the items left in the pile was a shop receipt with identifiable details on it. This has been handed to the relevant authorities in the hope that the individuals responsible can be traced and prosecuted.

Under UK law, fly-tipping is a criminal offence punishable by fines of up to £50,000 or even imprisonment.

Pembrokeshire County Council has been notified of the incident and is expected to remove the waste in the coming days.

Cllr Grimes urged anyone with information about the fly-tipping to contact the council or Dyfed-Powys Police, and reminded residents that legal methods of disposal, including local recycling centres and commercial waste services, are readily available.

“This kind of behaviour shows a complete disregard for our community and environment,” he said. “It will not be tolerated.”

Public meeting to discuss future of Fishguard Library

A PuBlIC meeting will take place at 6:30pm on Monday (July 14) at fishguard town hall to discuss the future operation of fishguard Library, as part of a public consultation being run jointly by Pembrokeshire County Council and fishguard & Goodwick town Council (fGtC).

The consultation explores potential models to reduce the running costs of the library and ensure it remains financially sustainable in its current

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

location. One option under consideration is a Community Managed Partnership Library, supported by local volunteers.

The public meeting will focus on how such a model might work and gauge whether there is sufficient local interest to make it viable.

FGTC is currently considering taking over the management of Fishguard

Town Hall through a Community Asset Transfer. A joint working group of PCC and FGTC members has been set up to assess the options and gather public feedback.

The consultation begins on Thursday (July 10) and runs until 5:00pm on Wednesday, August 20. Documents will be available online at: www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/haveyour-say/consultations

Paper copies will also be available in

English and Welsh at Fishguard Town Hall from the same date.

The six options under consideration are:

• Relocate the library to smaller premises elsewhere in the locality

• Share the existing library space with a third-party such as a shop or café

• Increase the annual financial contribution from the Town Council

• Reduce the library’s opening hours

• Create a Community Managed Library Partnership

• Close the library and replace it with mobile provision

All options are explained in more detail in the consultation documents.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “We know how important the library at Fishguard Town Hall is to local people. Alongside Fishguard & Goodwick Town Council, we are working to strike a balance that secures library provision while delivering necessary savings.

“Please take the opportunity to read the consultation documents and attend the public meeting on July 14 to learn more.”

A spokesperson for FGTC added: “We know how valued the library is by our community and want to see its fantastic service continue. At the same time, we must recognise the need to reduce costs. We encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and join the public meeting.”

Recycled art exhibition brings colour and creativity to Albany Church

AN INNOVAtIVe art exhibition celebrating creativity and sustainability took centre stage at Albany Church in Haverfordwest over the weekend.

The “Artcycle Exhibition,” made entirely from recycled materials, was warmly received by visitors and community members. Among those attending was County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who represents the Castle Ward.

Cllr Tudor praised the exhibition, calling it “inspiring” and a testament to the community spirit of Haverfordwest.

He said: “It was a pleasure to visit Albany Church and see the incredible work on display. The Artcycle Exhibition is a fantastic example of how art and environmental awareness can come together to enrich our community.”

The exhibition was organised in collaboration with local artist Hugh-John Wilson and highlighted the importance of reusing materials in creative and imaginative ways.

Organisers hope the event will encourage more people to think about sustainability and get involved in community-led art projects.

Couple to run 186 miles in six days for neurodivergent children

A PeMBROkesHIRe couple are set to run and walk the entire 186mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path in just six days to raise funds for a local organisation supporting neurodivergent children — and they’re doing it in style.

Kyle and Charmain Davies, a married couple from the county, will begin their epic journey on Thursday, August 1, starting in Amroth and finishing in St Dogmaels. The route includes more than 35,000 feet of elevation gain and loss, making it one of the most challenging national trails in the UK.

Carrying 50kg of gear between them, including food and camping equipment, the couple plan to remain self-sufficient throughout the challenge, sticking entirely to the coastal trail.

They’re raising money for Nest Pembrokeshire, a grassroots organisation supporting autistic, ADHD and neurodivergent children and their families — particularly those who

are home-educated or struggling in mainstream education.

Nest provides creative and social meet-up days, tailored online learning, daily wellbeing check-ins, and a strong community network — with a special focus on helping low-income families.

As part of the fundraising effort, Kyle pledged to dye his hair in Nest’s signature colours if they reached £1,000 in donations — a target they’ve already smashed. True to his word, he’s now sporting bright, Nest-inspired hair, which he’ll keep until they cross the finish line.

“Every pound raised goes towards helping local children who just need a different kind of support to thrive,” Kyle said.

Donations will help fund craft materials, outdoor learning activities, and ongoing educational support through Nest’s bespoke programmes.

�� GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/ deef25bd

Cycle charity visitor thanks St Davids community for warm welcome

A VIsItOR riding across the country to raise awareness and funds for mental health recovery has praised the people of st Davids for their kindness and generosity.

Tiny Stokes, who is part of the ‘Ride to Recovery’ campaign, spent several days in St Davids and took to social media to thank the community, local

businesses and the city council for their support.

He wrote: “I would like to say a massive thank you to the community and the council of St Davids and the local businesses… I’ve had a fantastic few days here and my visit has made this journey very special.”

Among those thanked were Rachael

to speak about the aims of the Ride to Recovery initiative.

He also paid tribute to Losh’s Pasties and others who kept him company and made repairs to his bicycle during his visit.

The Ride to Recovery initiative aims

to raise awareness around mental health challenges, using endurance cycling as a means of healing and inspiration for others. Tiny’s crosscountry journey has taken him to various communities, where he shares his story and encourages donations toward their mental health support goal.

Anyone wishing to support the campaign can donate via their GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/47fd9ac5

Thomas, Bethan Thomas Price, Peters Plaice, Voyages of Discovery, BEIC (the local cycle shop), St Davids City Council, Caroline Plant, Sarah Foster, and the St Davids Penknife Club, who invited Tiny

Coal trucks could return to centre of Saundersfoot

A tRIO of ornamental coal trucks could soon be installed in the heart of saundersfoot to honour the village’s historic links to the coalmining industry.

The replica trucks—made from cast iron and fibreglass—are proposed for a spot at the front of the Sensory Gardens, close to the former Coal Office which now houses part of the harbour’s heritage display.

Saundersfoot flourished in the 19th century as a port exporting anthracite from local mines. It was once claimed that Queen Victoria insisted only Saundersfoot coal be used to power her Royal Yacht.

“This village owes its existence to the coal trade,” said Councillor Chris Williams, who represents Saundersfoot South and is chairing the group behind the plans. “Many people don’t realise how vital the mining industry was to the development of Saundersfoot.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The display would be paid for and maintained by the Saundersfoot Festivities Committee, which runs events such as the popular New Year’s Day Swim and SaundersFest. The community council would look after the surrounding plants and landscaping, and handle the insurance. As well as commemorating the village’s industrial past, the project would help smarten up the garden area, Cllr Williams added.

The idea has won widespread support locally, with more than 93 per cent of over 200 respondents to

an online poll backing the proposal. A public consultation is currently under way and is due to end on July 20, when the community council will decide whether to take the next step and apply for planning permission.

Dyfed-Powys Police unveil plans for solar farm at Carmarthen HQ

dyfed-POWys POLICe and Crime Commissioner (PCC) dafydd llywelyn has unveiled plans to build a large-scale solar farm on unused land at the force’s headquarters in Llangunnor, Carmarthen.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The proposed development includes the installation of 1,420 photovoltaic (PV) panels, a battery storage system, and associated infrastructure. Once operational, the solar farm is expected to generate approximately 592,245 kWh of electricity each year—of which around 88% would be used directly by Dyfed-Powys Police.

This move is projected to reduce the force’s reliance on grid electricity and deliver an estimated carbon saving of 109,647 kg annually. While exact financial savings will depend on future energy prices, the project is expected to significantly cut the force’s long-term energy bills.

Commissioner Llywelyn said the

project reflects the force’s wider commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible use of public funds.

“In addition to cutting our carbon footprint, this investment in renewable energy will deliver long-term financial savings and help us contribute to a greener future,” he said. “I strongly encourage local residents—particularly those in the Llangunnor area—to engage with the consultation and share their views.”

CBRE, a commercial real estate and investment firm, is acting on behalf of the PCC and Dyfed-Powys Police. A pre-planning application consultation has been launched to gather public feedback before submitting a formal application to Carmarthenshire County Council.

As part of the consultation, an in-person public drop-in event will take place at Carmarthen Library on Wednesday, 10 July, from 9:00am to 6:30pm.

Full details of the proposed development, along with an opportunity to comment, are available online at: [View the Solar Farm consultation here].

The consultation is open until 25 July 2025.

Proposed site – the coal trucks would sit at the front of the Sensory Gardens (Pic: Saundersfoot Community Council).

£1 bus fares for young people across Wales from September

YOuNG PeOPle in Wales aged 16 to 21 will be able to travel on buses for just £1 per journey from 1 september, thanks to a new Welsh Government scheme aimed at reducing travel costs and boosting access to education, work, and leisure.

The scheme will also include the option of a £3 unlimited day ticket, valid across participating bus services throughout Wales. The initiative will run for one year initially and is part of a broader push to improve public transport access and tackle rural isolation.

To qualify, eligible young people must apply for a free mytravelpass, with applications opening on 21 July via mytravelpass.tfw.wales.

From 3 November, the scheme will be extended to include children aged five to 15. Until then, existing reduced fares for children will remain in place.

WelsH GOVeRNMeNt INVestMeNt

A total of £15 million will be allocated over two financial years (2025–26 and 2026–27) to support the £1 fare scheme for 16 to 21-year-olds. A further £7 million will support the extension to five to 15-year-olds.

The investment is part of a budget

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

agreement between the Welsh Government and the Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Jane Dodds MS.

MINIsteRs WelCOMe lAuNCH

Speaking at the launch event at Newport Bus Station, First Minister Eluned Morgan said:

“Cutting the cost of travel for young people and providing better transport for all is one of our top priorities. We are delivering on our promises to young people across Wales.

“This investment will make a real difference to communities all over Wales, especially in rural areas.”

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, added: “I am delighted to be launching a scheme that offers affordable bus travel for young people to help them access education, training, employment, and leisure.

“It also supports our wider goals of reducing carbon emissions, increasing public transport use, and tackling poverty. I urge all eligible young people to sign up for their mytravelpass from 21 July, so they’re ready to benefit when the scheme starts on 1 September.”

Campaign group challenges drone testing at West Wales Airport

a NeW campaign group, West Wales against arms, has launched with a public call to end drone testing in Ceredigion linked to the Israeli military.

The group, made up of residents concerned about weapons testing in the region, will hold its first public meeting at the Guildhall in Cardigan on Monday (July 14) at 7:00pm.

According to a flyer circulated by the group, Israeli-manufactured drones including the Elbit Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 have been test flown from West Wales Airport in Aberporth, which brands itself as “the UK’s most important test and demonstration area for drones.” Both models are widely used by the Israeli military, including in operations over Gaza.

The campaign also highlights the presence of QinetiQ, a major UK defence contractor, which runs the MOD Aberporth facility in nearby Parcllyn. The group alleges that QinetiQ has been issued at least nine export licences by the UK government to supply weapons technology to Israel, including one licence worth more than £14 million.

In a statement, West Wales Against Arms said: “We are horrified by the genocide in Gaza and do not want West Wales to be part of it. We do not want our skies used to test equipment that helps Israel commit war crimes and kill children.”

Since October 2023, over 61,000 people have reportedly been killed in Gaza, including thousands of children.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued applications for arrest

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

warrants against senior Israeli and Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes.

The campaign group’s flyer claims West Wales is becoming increasingly

militarised and calls on residents to oppose what it calls “complicity in genocide.”

Neither West Wales Airport nor QinetiQ have publicly responded to the group’s claims. The UK government maintains that all arms export licences are subject to strict controls and must

comply with international humanitarian law.

The public meeting on Monday will include speakers, information about the drone industry in Wales, and an open discussion. The group is encouraging anyone concerned about the issue to attend.

Environmental damage from solar farms sparks fears for Welsh wetlands

fresh concerns have been raised over the environmental cost of large-scale solar developments after new findings revealed serious damage to a protected wetland in south-east Wales.

The Gwent Levels, a Site of Special

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Scientific Interest (SSSI) near Newport, have suffered what conservationists are calling “catastrophic” ecological harm from the Llanwern Solar Farm,

a 145-hectare installation south of the former Llanwern steelworks.

Surveys have shown a collapse in breeding lapwing numbers, a sharp decline in rare bees, and the disappearance of Eurasian cranes from the area. Pollution from the site’s drainage channels is also believed to be affecting water voles, otters and aquatic plant life.

Although the Gwent Levels are over 100 miles from Pembrokeshire, the situation has raised alarm among local campaigners who fear similar damage could occur if solar developments are approved on West Wales wetlands or SSSI land.

The Herald understands that the Gwent Wildlife Trust is warning that attempts to protect wildlife at the Llanwern site have “failed catastrophically”, with only one active bat box found on-site and bee populations down significantly. Herbicide use and poor wildflower management have been cited as possible causes.

The trust is now urging the Welsh Government to halt further solar projects on protected land, including

the proposed Wentlooge Solar Farm, which would be more than double the size of Llanwern.

Chief Executive Natalie Buttriss said: “The Levels’ waterways are home to many rare species, and high levels of pollution from solar plants will damage them irrevocably. If Wentlooge goes ahead, the ecological losses could be even greater.”

Ms Buttriss stressed the trust is not opposed to solar energy, but argued such developments should be placed on non-sensitive land, adding: “Only 12 per cent of Wales’ land is designated as SSSI – these fragments should be sacrosanct.”

The Welsh Government said it could not comment while the matter is being considered by Planning and Environment Decisions Wales.

The news has sparked calls from environmental groups in Pembrokeshire for a review of local planning policies. One campaigner told The Herald: “We all want a greener Wales – but we cannot sacrifice our most precious habitats in the process. What’s happening on the Gwent Levels should be a wake-up call.”

Gaza - From nightmare to dawn chorus

It is easy to be paralysed by the intensity of the horror entering our homes and minds through live footage every day from Gaza and surrounding lands.

Cwtch Pals is a local group finding ways to turn the horror into hope making a lasting difference. The latest focus is on growing Palestinian enterprises and skills.

“First we helped some families with small children escape, then when the border closed we responded to the families’ wishes for schools to give their children some normality and hope for a future.” Vicky, Cwtch Pals founder recalled.

“Two of us spent a month in Cairo earlier in the year and went back again during May. We don’t know how to stop the slaughter but there was another goal we could help with. The biggest source of suffering after seeing relatives dying, is having no glimmer of hope of a future. One thing I learned from my time with John Seymour and all the grass roots initiatives in West Wales, is how to build, somethings out of nothing”

As well as the two schools for Palestinian children in Cairo that Cwtch Pals is now funding, the group is helping expand or set up Palestinian enterprises, starting to rebuild a future.

This month will see the opening of a Palestine Bakery in Cairo, helped by our funds and support from a Cwtch Pals local team. The families running it had a bakery in Gaza, now destroyed and 14 years baking experience. They started a garage sized venture in Cairo and grew a following of loyal customers for their delicious healthy cakes. The new bakery is an expansion into proper premises with commercial equipment. Most of their customers will be Palestinians. The £1000 contribution from Cwtch Pals is part donation, part loan so that it can come back and be reinvested.

The next venture is also on the

Vicky Moller (Guest Writer) vickymoller@gmail.com

cooking theme. This is a social enterprise based on the fifty women that have been going to cooking classes in groups of seven, through the week. The organisers met with Cwtch Pals and we saw the small domestic kitchen where they were struggling with rickety old equipment. They invited us to a public taster day where their food received overwhelming endorsements and commercial orders. We are now fund raising to equip a proper kitchen in new premises. This is very exciting. The women say how it helps their trauma and grieving to get out and do homely things together with hope of supporting their families from it.

As soon as this is funded we will be raising money for an engineering team providing green and high quality cooling systems for domestic and commercial premises. Their lead engineer will be training apprentices with the equipment we aim to fund.

These are path breaking enterprises but we would like a culture of ‘leave noone behind’. We want to expand the skills sharing side so everyone has an entry point to self reliance. To do this we keep a look out for opportunities, and again West Wales came to the rescue.

We met a young amputee artist using his feet to try to continue his passion for drawing after his arms were destroyed. His ultimate dream is prosthetics but that is a long way off. We arranged for a group of Pembrokeshire artists to meet him online. They saw his work and invited him to display at Oriel Q in Narberth, and sent money for art materials. He has submitted his first drawing. The exhibition is 12 July to 31st August.

Cwtch Pals next fundraiser is 2nd August near Newport from 5pm. Get in touch for details: 07791 809 810 / cwtchpalswales@gmail.com

Carnival fills the town with colour, crowds and community spirit

MIL f O rd have N came alive on s aturday (July 5) as thousands gathered for the town’s annual carnival — a celebration of creativity, community and summer joy, organised by Milford Haven Round table and proudly supported by south Hook lNG terminal as main sponsor.

The 2025 parade saw an explosion of energy, with floats, performers and dancers winding their way through the streets. Acrobats performed daring balancing acts, children danced in themed costumes, a giant green dragon puppet snaked through the route, and a jungle float complete with a towering gorilla caused quite a stir.

Spectators enjoyed performances from pipe bands, local dance groups, and a rock ‘n’ roll-themed float that filled the air with confetti and music.

Costumes ranged from 80s glam rock to safari explorers, bees and sunflowers — all cheered on by a crowd lining the pavements along the route to Milford Waterfront, where rides and amusements kept families entertained into the evening.

lORD NelsON HOtel WINs Best DResseD BusINess

A major highlight of the day came with the announcement that The Lord Nelson Hotel had been awarded the Best Dressed Business Award.

Chosen by the Mayor of Milford Haven, Cllr William Elliott, and his consort Lloyd Jones, the hotel also took home a prize for their carnival float, showing outstanding effort and community spirit.

The awards were presented on the main stage at Milford Waterfront, where judges, performers, and spectators gathered for the evening celebrations. A large digital screen and professional stage set-up added to the carnival’s growing reputation as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier community events.

a h UG e COMMUNI ty eff O rt Round Table Chairman Gareth Roberts thanked sponsors and volunteers, saying: “We simply couldn’t do it without you. Your support brings our community together, puts smiles on faces, and makes Milford Haven shine brighter every year. Thank you for being part of something so special.”

Alongside South Hook LNG, other key supporters included:

• Milford Waterfront

• Ascona Group

• Milford Haven Town Council

• Thornton Motors

• Impala

• BDS

• Rhyal Engineering

• Pembs Building & Plumbing Supplies

With additional help from:

Critchton Containers, GRS Group, Speedy Hire, West Coast Scaffolding, Cleddau Communications, JSI Timber Frames, and Musselwick Farm Cottages

The Milford Haven Round Table will return later this year with their next flagship event — the town’s Fireworks Display on November 1.

Securing Pembrokeshire’s future

IN aN INdUstry where reliability, professionalism, and experience are paramount, rM training and security solutions ltd has emerged as a leading provider of security services and training across Wales. founded in November 2021 by Company director ryan Mayne and Kerry Mcreynolds, they were joined by General Manager Mathew davies in 2022, the company has grown into a trusted name in the security sector, offering high-quality training programs, security staffing, and event protection.

Now, with a team of around 300 employees, RM Training is poised to expand its operations in Pembrokeshire and beyond, ensuring businesses, event organisers, and hospitality venues have access to qualified security personnel in a sector where demand is at an all-time high.

frOM hIGh-rIsK seCUrIty tO BUILdING a fUtUre

IN PeMBROkesHIRe

For Ryan Mayne, the security industry is not just a business—it’s a lifelong career shaped by real-world experience in high-risk environments. With over two decades in top-tier security roles, Ryan has worked in some of the UK’s largest clubs, corporate settings, and high-profile protection services, dealing with situations that were often tense, unpredictable, and dangerous.

“When I think back to some of the things I saw and some of the incidents I had to deal with, it scares me,” Ryan reflects.

But his life changed during the COVID-19 pandemic when the Home Office deployed him to Pembrokeshire to help manage refugee and asylum seeker security operations. It was here that he fell in love with the county, leading to a decision that would shape both his personal and professional future.

“I was deployed to a site near Tenby, and it didn’t take me long to realise just how fantastic Pembrokeshire is,” Ryan explains. “I knew this was the place where I wanted to build something new.”

That decision was cemented by his relationship with Tenby native Kerry McReynolds, who he is due to marry in September.

“We knew Pembrokeshire was the place where we wanted to bring up our children,” Ryan says. “So it made sense to set up the company here too.”

While Ryan handles the strategic direction and business growth, Kerry plays a pivotal role in the company’s success, managing client relations, staff retention, and back-office operations, all while raising their two-year-old son, Archie.

“She’s the driving force,” Ryan says. “None of this would be possible without her.”

When it comes to ensuring the smooth operation of a security business, General Manager Mathew Davies is the man who makes it happen. With a background in both military and civilian security, Mathew brings a wealth of experience, discipline, and leadership to RM Training and Security Solutions Ltd, making him a key figure in its rapid growth and ongoing success.

Since joining forces with Company Director Ryan Mayne, Mathew has played a pivotal role in overseeing the company’s day-to-day operations, staff training, and client relationships, helping RM Training establish itself as one of the leading security providers in Pembrokeshire and South Wales.

Mathew’s journey into the security industry was forged through years of hands-on experience in demanding environments. His military background instilled a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and strategic thinking, all of which have proven invaluable in his role at RM Training.

After transitioning into civilian

Ryan Mayne

Mathew Davies Kerry McReynolds

security, Mathew quickly climbed the ranks, demonstrating a deep understanding of risk management, personnel coordination, and highpressure decision-making. These skills now form the backbone of RM Training’s success, ensuring that every security operation runs seamlessly.

eMPOWeRING PeMBROkesHIRe’s

WOrKfOrCe WIth seCUrIty tRAINING

One of RM Training and Security Solutions Ltd’s primary objectives is to provide local people with a structured pathway into the security industry.

The company offers over 140 online and practical courses, covering a wide spectrum of security roles including:

• Door supervision for pubs, clubs, and licensed venues

• Corporate security for offices and commercial spaces

• Retail security for shopping centres and stores

• Event and festival security

• Site and property security

A core focus is Security Industry Authority (SIA) accredited training, ensuring trainees receive recognised qualifications required to work in the sector.

Their newly established office in Port Talbot is also playing a key role in retraining workers affected by the Tata Steel job losses, helping individuals transition into security careers following redundancy.

“Our goal is not just to train people but to give them career progression opportunities,” Ryan explains. “This industry is about keeping people safe, and that starts with having well-trained professionals.”

exPANDING seCuRItY seRVICes ACROss WAles

Beyond training, RM Training and Security Solutions Ltd provides security services for a wide range of businesses. The company currently supports:

• Bars, pubs, and nightclubs struggling to find licensed and reliable door staff

• Retail and corporate businesses in need of on-site security operatives

• Festivals and major events requiring crowd management teams

• Close protection and private security clients

With over 200 events already booked for 2024, RM Training is becoming the go-to security provider for major gatherings across South Wales.

But for General Manager Mathew Davies, ensuring quality and reliability is just as important as expansion.

“He’s the one who makes sure the staff are doing what they’re supposed to be doing, while offering them all the support they need,” says Ryan. “Mathew works 24/7 to ensure our high standards never slip.”

The company now aims to secure additional security contracts across Pembrokeshire, addressing a major shortage of trained security personnel in the region.

“The reality is that there simply aren’t enough trained security professionals in Pembrokeshire,” Ryan explains. “Businesses struggle to find reliable door staff and event security. We’re here to fix that.”

the fUtUre fOr rM traINING & seCuRItY sOlutIONs ltD

As RM Training and Security Solutions Ltd continues its growth trajectory, the company remains committed to:

• Expanding its presence in Pembrokeshire and South Wales

• Training the next generation of security professionals

• Providing reliable security solutions to businesses and event organisers

• Raising awareness of the industry’s importance in safeguarding communities

With a dedicated team, strong leadership, and a clear vision, RM Training is not just building a security business— it’s building a safer Pembrokeshire.

Tufnell reflects on first year as MP for Pembrokeshire

PeMBROkesHIRe MP Henry tufnell has marked the first anniversary of his election by reflecting on a year of activity, pledges delivered, and ambitions for the future.

Mr Tufnell, who won the seat for Labour in July 2024, said he remained “proud to stand up for our community” after spending the past twelve months listening to residents, visiting groups and local services, and working to address key issues.

“Every conversation reminds me why I’m so proud to serve,” he said.

Among the highlights of his first year, Mr Tufnell pointed to progress on housing, investment, broadband, the environment, and NHS accountability.

tACklING HOusING AND JOBs

He said the number of people on the housing waiting list in Pembrokeshire had dropped by around 2,000, with new social and affordable homes now under construction. The county has also been identified as a key growth region by the Welsh Labour Government, unlocking investment in skills training and job creation.

HeAltH AND tHe eNVIRONMeNt

Mr Tufnell has launched surveys across the constituency to gather views on GP and dental access, and said he had secured a commitment from the Health Board’s Chief Executive to deliver “transformative change”—though he acknowledged more work remains.

In his role on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, the MP also said he had taken Welsh Water to task over pollution, poor service, and what he called “extortionate” executive pay.

INVestMeNt AND INfrastrUCtUre

Over £10 million has been committed to Pembrokeshire through Labour’s Transforming Towns programme, according to Mr Tufnell, alongside nearly £109 million of broadband funding through Project Gigabit, which will bring high-speed connectivity to over 4,000 rural homes in the area.

sUPPOrt fOr farMers aNd CONsuMeRs

Mr Tufnell has also raised concerns in Parliament about the ECO4 insulation scheme, which he said left too many householders with poor work and no recourse. His efforts, he says, helped lead to new protections being introduced.

He has also called on government ministers to delay proposed

inheritance tax reforms impacting family farms.

Reflecting on the past year, Mr Tufnell said: “We’ve made great progress, but there’s still so much to do. I’m here for you.”

Residents are encouraged to get in touch with the MP via henry.tufnell. mp@parliament.uk.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Petition to save Ysgol Clydau, Tegryn, at risk of closure

A PetItION call to save a Pembrokeshire school at risk of closure has been lodged with the county council.

Ysgol Clydau in Tegryn is one of several small schools under threat as part of proposals from Pembrokeshire County Council’s School Modernisation Working Group.

At the May meeting of full council heard that there has been a 34 per cent decline in the school’s pupil population during the period 2015-2025, with no indication that this will be significantly reversed during the next five-six years.

opportunity to grow”.

He added that closure was “a disaster for the future of education locally” and was “not fair and was not moral”.

before any decision is made. We urge you to engage in a meaningful dialogue with the community, listen to our concerns, and work with us to find alternative solutions that support the needs of our children and families.”

It adds: “Ysgol Clydau is more than just a school; it’s a hub for community life, offering a safe and welcoming space for children, families and residents of all ages. Its closure will isolate our community, leading to a decline in population and a weakening of our social fabric.

“We believe small schools to be a bedrock of rural communities, essential in the survival of the Welsh language, and most importantly, as loving, centres of academic excellence for our children.

“Ysgol Clydau provides a high-quality education for our children, offering personalised attention and support. Closing the school will impact the educational outcomes of our children, and potentially create additional hardship for families. Not everyone has access to a car and shipping young children for miles on buses every day is just wrong.”

However, the report from the council’s working group recommended that the Director of Education be authorised to commence statutory consultation on a proposal to discontinue Ysgol Clydau.

A plea on behalf of Ysgol Clyddau was launched at that meeting by Cllr

Iwan Ward, local member, who said it was “the heart of our society not just a school, it’s family, a community, an anchor for children who deserve the

The school was praised in its last Estyn report with inspectors describing it as a ‘happy, caring and welcoming community’.

The petition on the county council’s own website, has attracted 124 signatures to date.

The e-petition, started by Sarah Farnden, reads: “We demand that Pembrokeshire County Council reconsider its decision to close Ysgol Clydau and instead prioritise the needs of our community by keeping the school open.

“We oppose the closure of Ysgol Clydau and call for full public scrutiny

It finishes: “Ysgol Clydau has a rich history in our community, and its closure would represent a loss of our collective heritage and identity. There has been a school on the site of Ysgol Clydau since 1880 (145 years).”

Anyone who lives, works or studies within the Pembrokeshire County Council area may sign or organise a council e-petition. This includes anyone under the age of 18.

If the petition gets 500 signatures, the creator will have an opportunity to debate it at a full council meeting.

A change.org petition opposing the school closure has also been set up by Sarah Farnden, attracting 949 signatures to date.

£20,000 grant opportunity for rural Welsh communities to drive change

RuRAl communities across Wales are invited to apply for a new £20,000 grant to explore ideas that could help shape a better future for their area.

The Community-led Action Research Grant will fund up to six research projects and provide training and support from an academic mentor and opportunities to connect with other communities and researchers.

The grant is delivered by the Cymru Wledig Local Policy and Innovation Partnership (LPIP) Rural Wales, which is led by Aberystwyth University.

Professor Mike Woods from Aberystwyth University, Director of Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales, said: “This programme is about giving rural communities the tools and support to investigate what matters most to them – whether that’s improving wellbeing, tackling climate change, or strengthening local culture – and to turn

that knowledge into action.”

“This is an opportunity for communities to take the lead in shaping their own futures, and we are excited to support projects that reflect the creativity, resilience and ambition of rural Wales.”

The grant is open to communities in rural areas of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Monmouthshire, Pembrokeshire, Powys, and the Vale of Glamorgan.

Projects must align with at least one of four key themes of Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales: building a regenerative economy; supporting the Net Zero transition; empowering communities for cultural recovery; or enhancing wellbeing in place.

Further information about the Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales Communityled Action Research Grant, which is open for applications until 29 August 2025, is available on the Together for

Change website. The fund is provided by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Arts and Humanities Research

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Council (AHRC), and Innovate UK as part of Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales led by Aberystwyth University.

New Deputy Chief Medical Officer appointed for Wales

DR JAMes CAlVeRt has been appointed as the new Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Wales, bringing with him a distinguished background in clinical leadership and public health.

Currently Medical Director and Deputy Chief Executive at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Dr Calvert will take up his new role at the start of August. In addition to his appointment, he will also become the National Clinical Director for NHS Performance and Improvement—a key recommendation made by the Ministerial Advisory Group on NHS Performance and Productivity.

An Oxford University graduate, Dr Calvert also holds a PhD in Epidemiology and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University, where he studied as a Fulbright Scholar.

Dr Calvert has lived in Gwent for over sixteen years and is widely respected for his commitment to improving healthcare outcomes across Wales. His career has spanned frontline medicine, clinical strategy, and national advisory roles, including serving as National Specialty Advisor for Severe Asthma and leading the National Asthma Audit at the Royal

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

College of Physicians.

Wales’ Chief Medical Officer, Professor Isabel Oliver, welcomed the appointment, saying:

“I am very much looking forward to working with Dr Calvert. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. His leadership will be key to enhancing clinical services and improving NHS performance across Wales.”

Dr Calvert said he was “honoured” to take on the role.

“This is a pivotal time for the NHS in Wales. I look forward to working with colleagues across the system to advance our shared goal of delivering high-quality, equitable healthcare for all,” he said.

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles added:

“Dr Calvert’s experience will prove invaluable. His appointment will ensure clear, strong clinical leadership at the highest levels of NHS Wales.”

Dr Calvert will officially begin his new duties in early August.

Two local beaches named among best in Wales

tWO Pembrokeshire beaches have been named among the very best in the UK, with the times praising their natural beauty, tourist appeal and unique history in its much-anticipated Best Beaches Guide 2025.

The guide, now in its 17th year, saw travel experts cover over 5,800 miles of coastline and assess more than 750 beaches across the UK to find the nation’s top coastal spots. Eight Welsh beaches made the final cut — with Whitesands and Saundersfoot flying

Sinclair editor@herald.email

the flag for Pembrokeshire.

WHItesANDs: steePeD IN leGeND

Whitesands, near St Davids, was described as a “timeless, spiritual location” with fine golden sand, great surf, and sweeping views of Ramsey Island. The Times noted the beach’s historical significance, claiming that this

may have been the very place where Saint Patrick departed for Ireland in AD432 to begin his missionary work.

A hotspot for surfers, families, and walkers alike, Whitesands offers both natural beauty and strong amenities. With a nearby café, seasonal lifeguards, and walking trails linking to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, it remains one of the region’s most treasured coastal gems.

saUNdersfOOt: a harBOUr vILLaGe favOUrIte

Also featured was Saundersfoot, a bustling harbour village popular with tourists year-round. The Times praised its “seaside charm and easygoing atmosphere,” as well as its accessibility for families, wide sandy beach, and thriving food scene.

Boat trips, dolphin-spotting excursions, and fresh seafood on the seafront were all noted as standout

attractions — while the proximity to Tenby and the village’s ongoing regeneration projects helped cement its place on the list.

CeleBRAtING WelsH COAstAl exCelleNCe

The Times guide was topped overall by Portstewart Strand in Northern Ireland, but Wales had a strong showing with eight beaches recognised, including:

• Shell Island, Gwynedd (regional winner)

• Three Cliffs Bay, Swansea

• Dunraven Bay, Vale of Glamorgan

• Mwnt, Ceredigion

• Aberdaron, Gwynedd

• Llanddwyn, Anglesey

Pembrokeshire’s inclusion reflects the county’s enduring reputation as one of the UK’s top holiday destinations, particularly for lovers of the sea, sand, and rugged coastline.

a BOOst fOr tOUrIsM

Tourism operators in Pembrokeshire have welcomed the news. One local business owner told The Herald: “We know how special these places are, but national recognition like this really helps encourage visitors to explore more of what Pembrokeshire has to offer.”

With summer well underway, the timing of the list provides a timely boost to local tourism — and a reminder to residents and visitors alike of the natural treasures right on their doorstep.

Tom

Surreal and striking: Period Drama takes centre stage at the Torch

PerIOd drama by Olga Kaleta, featuring integrated British sign Language by sherrie eugene hart, comes to the torch theatre on saturday 2 august for a one-nightonly performance.

This surreal and episodic show blends autobiographical storytelling with circus, bold physicality, and sharp feminist insight. Co-directed by Laura Murphy and Nicole A’Court-Stuart, it offers a visceral deep dive into the complexities of wellness—through the lens of slasher flicks, blood-stained knickers, and the existential crises of insects.

At once poignant, darkly humorous, and unapologetically honest, the production challenges assumptions around mental health and sexuality. It is packed with strong language, striking visuals, and laugh-outloud moments that leave audiences questioning what it means to be well—and who gets to decide.

With an original musical score by Ashley John Long, set design by Lauren Dix, and production by Nicole A’Court-Stuart and Thea Woodrow, Period Drama is a Handstand Arts commission for Circus City’s Respond Programme. It was developed with support from Arts Council England, National Lottery players, and initial R&D funding from Arts Council Wales.

Period Drama is suitable for audiences aged 16+. Catch it at the Torch Theatre on

24s.

DEXTER RESURRECTION

WHeN Dexter: New Blood concluded with a gut-punch twist, most fans assumed the saga of Dexter Morgan had finally ended. But in the world of television, death is rarely the end—and now, with dexter: resurrection, the “dark Passenger” is back, rising from the ashes in a series that promises redemption, retribution, and a twisted reunion.

Set weeks after the events of New Blood, Dexter: Resurrection finds Dexter Morgan miraculously alive, waking from a coma after his apparent death at the hands of his son, Harrison. With Harrison missing and presumed on the run, Dexter tracks him to New York City—a far cry from the sleepy, snow-blanketed town of Iron Lake. The bustling urban landscape adds new texture to the familiar game of cat and mouse, heightening the stakes and forcing Dexter to once again blend into the shadows of a city that never sleeps. But Dexter isn’t the only one on the hunt. Angel Batista, a former Miami PD captain and close friend turned relentless investigator, is hot on his trail. The series builds a compelling triangle of tension between father, son, and former friend, promising emotional weight alongside the usual moral ambiguity and blood-

spattered thrills.

Michael C. Hall slips effortlessly back into Dexter’s skin, bringing the same quiet menace and internal conflict that made him one of television’s most compelling anti-heroes.

Hall’s performance remains the backbone of the show, grounding its more outlandish moments in authentic emotional turmoil. Jack Alcott returns as Harrison, now grappling with the weight of his actions and the disturbing legacy he inherited. Their fractured fatherson dynamic takes center stage, offering some of the series’ most poignant moments. David Zayas also reprises his role as Batista, whose pursuit of justice adds a relentless drive to the narrative.

Joining the returning characters is an impressive new ensemble, including Peter Dinklage, Uma Thurman, Krysten Ritter, Neil Patrick Harris, Eric Stonestreet, and a haunting cameo from John Lithgow as the iconic Trinity Killer. The new cast breathes fresh life into the series, expanding its world without overshadowing its core characters.

One of the most talked-about aspects of Dexter: Resurrection is its tone. While previous seasons leaned heavily into dark psychological drama, trailers and promotional material hint at a slightly campier, more

stylized approach. There’s an undercurrent of fun this time around—ironic, considering the blood-soaked subject matter. Whether this shift is a trailerdriven misdirection or a genuine tonal evolution remains to be seen. Still, the show walks a fine line between honoring its legacy and reinventing itself. The darker emotional core is still present, particularly in Dexter’s guilt and Harrison’s confusion, but fans should be prepared for moments of self-aware levity that may feel jarring to longtime viewers.

So far, Dexter: Resurrection looks like a worthy continuation, if not a complete reinvention. The writing feels more focused than in New Blood, the New York setting gives the narrative space to breathe, and Hall’s performance is as magnetic as ever. The father-son storyline adds muchneeded emotional weight, and the return of familiar faces offers satisfying closure—or perhaps a few more questions. However, the series also flirts with the risk of predictability. Some beats feel familiar, and there’s always the danger of relying too heavily on past successes. That said, if the premiere episodes deliver on their promise, Dexter: Resurrection may just give the character the second life—and proper ending— he’s always deserved.

i know what you did last summer

tHe summer of slasher nostalgia heats up again as I know What You Did last summer stalks into theaters on July 18, 2025. this new installment skillfully bridges past and present: it revisits the traumatic legacy of the fisherman while passing the torch to a bold, fresh crop of teens. Jennifer love Hewitt and freddie Prinze Jr. return as Julie and ray, their onceteen roles now transformed by survivor’s guilt, guiding a new group of five friends through grim secrets and bloody consequences.

Director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson brings a stylish edge informed by her sharp eye and Jaws-inspired visuals, making this more than a

retro run-and-scream. She modernises the Fisherman, upgrading his crude hook into a lethal internal blade and arming him with a harpoon gun—sharp upgrades that escalate his threat considerably. The result is a scarier, more visceral villain that nods to the past while packing fresh menace.

The young ensemble— Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders, Jonah Hauer-King, Sarah Pidgeon, Tyriq Withers and Gabbriette Bechtel—carry the film’s tense heart. They grapple with the moral fallout of a fatal accident they’ve covered up, and Robinson allows their panic and paranoia to shine. Cline and Wonders, in particular, deliver compelling performances as they unravel under pressure.

Hewitt and Prinze Jr. feel more than token cameos—their deeply rooted trauma grounds the story with gravity.

Plot-wise, the film weaves a familiar slasher formula— mysterious letters, stalking in the night, brutal kills—but refreshes it with deeper character arcs and ethical stakes. The connection to the 1997 Southport massacre brings a clever meta twist: this isn’t just history repeating; it’s a lesson Julie and Ray never fully learned.

Critically, early word is split. Some see it as a ruthless nostalgia cash-in without enough originality, while fans are responding to its amplified horror tone and polished aesthetic. At the very least, Robinson’s vision is bold, atmospheric and knows how to pull a jump-scare when it counts.

Whether this revival cements itself as a new classic or fades into the summer’s horror noise, it delivers exactly what a modern teen slasher should: a haunted legacy, a group of flawed protagonists, and a menacing killer with real bite. For fans of the genre, this summer’s Fisherman may just be the hook they’ve been waiting for.

Tech and Taff

fa N at IC a L fU t U r I sts, AI tAkeOVeRs & A tRIP tO NeWPORt

Well now, isn’t this tidy? Wales tech Week 2025 is nearly upon us – Newport’s ICC will soon be crawling with techies, thinkers, and more lanyards than you can shake a usB stick at. f rom 24–26 November, it’s the future we’re talking about – and they’ve only gone and booked Matthew Griffin to give the keynote.

Now, Griffin isn’t your average bloke muttering about ChatGPT in the pub. No no – this one’s what they call a futurist. Not the crystal-ball type either. He works with governments, the UN, and actual important people to figure out how technology is about to upend life as we know it. He’s called The Fanatical Futurist (probably because “Reasonably Concerned Futurist” didn’t have the same ring to it).

He’s coming to Wales to tell us what’s coming round the digital corner – and spoiler alert: it’s AI, autonomous systems, and the small matter of reshaping human society. Lovely.

“The cost of accessing intelligence is falling to zero,” he says. Marvellous. Meanwhile I still can’t get my printer to connect via Wi-Fi.

Griffin’s not here to panic us though. He’s actually quite chipper. AI, he reckons, is already transforming healthcare, speeding up diagnoses, and helping kids learn “12 times faster”. I’ve no idea what that

means in GCSE terms, but it sounds impressive.

But here’s the rub – he says we’re not ready. Not even close. People, companies, even whole governments are so busy reacting that they’re not actually planning. “We underestimate the trajectory of technology,” he warns. “We need to educate first before we can use it to benefit society.”

I’d argue we need to plug the thing in first, but I digress.

What’s he doing in Newport then?

Turns out he studied at Bangor Uni and wants to “give back”. Fair play to him. He reckons Wales has the smarts and the spark –it just needs a little future-facing fire in its belly. Having worked with India and the UAE, he’s keen to help us level up too.

His talk? He says: “Expect the unexpected.”

Which probably means a PowerPoint presentation that’ll blow your little Wales Tech Week is completely free – and this year’s themes are Tech for People, Tech for the Planet, and Tech for Performance. That’s a broad enough net to catch everything from climate change to chatbot customer service. If you’re into ideas, innovation, or just fancy a day out with free Wi-Fi and awkward coffee networking, get yourself there.

More info: www. walestechweek.com tell ‘em Barry sent you. I’ll be the one in the corner muttering about floppy disks.

Solva Edge Festival celebrates tenth anniversary this July

sOLva edge festival returns from 25–27 July, promising a packed weekend of music, culture and coastal charm — and this year marks a major milestone as the community-run event celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Set in the heart of Solva with dramatic views over the Pembrokeshire coastline, the not-for-profit festival has grown into one of the most loved events in the West Wales summer calendar. Organisers say the 2025 event — dubbed “Edge X” — will be the most ambitious yet.

Headline acts include Dirty Weekend, Daft Punkz and Who’s Molly

This year’s musical line-up is led by high-energy favourites Dirty Weekend, dance-pop crowd-pleasers Daft Punkz, and the anthemic Who’s Molly. Festival regulars will also welcome the return of Good Times, while the coveted ‘legends slot’ will be filled by Fleetwood Mad, a tribute act drawing crowds across the UK for their faithful recreation of Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits.

Activities for all ages

In addition to the music, organisers have confirmed a broad range of activities. These include:

• Children’s entertainment, from magicians to singalongs;

• a literary reading of erimos, a

new work exploring myth and hope, with author Mark Lewis and illustrator Peter stevenson;

• Guided walks with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park team.

Festival-goers can also enjoy artisan stalls, henna tattoos, street food, and local ales at the popular Green Scar Bar.

A festival with heart

Solva Edge is unique in being run entirely by volunteers, with all proceeds returned to the community through grants and bursaries. Past beneficiaries include Solva AFC, St Davids Guides, Strength Academy Wales, Simpson’s Cross Activities Group, and Victoria Hall in Roch.

Organiser Luci Chapman said: “This is a special year for us — ten years of celebrating music, community and the coastline we love. Every ticket bought helps fund youth groups, sports clubs and creative projects across North Pembrokeshire.”

The event takes place at Solva Football Club, Maes Y Mor, Solva, SA62 6XW, with free parking on site.

Tickets are available online at www. edgefestival.co.uk or at the gate

ninja gaiden ragebound

NINJA Gaiden: Ragebound marks a triumphant return to the franchise’s roots, delivering a sleek side-scrolling action experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Developed by the Game Kitchen, the creators of Blasphemous, this 2d action title throws players into the sandals of Kenji Mozu, the young apprentice of Ryu Hayabusa. With Ryu away on a mysterious mission, Kenji must defend Hayabusa Village from a deadly threat, alongside Kumori, a fierce kunoichi from a rival clan. together, they dive headfirst into a story packed with tension, honor, and bladeswinging intensity.

The moment-to-moment gameplay is incredibly tight and responsive. Kenji’s Guillotine Boost—letting him bounce off enemies and projectiles—is a standout feature that adds rhythm and verticality to every encounter. Combat is fluid, fast-paced, and encourages creativity. You can leap, wall-run, dash, and slash with precision, all while timing your strikes to trigger satisfying “Hypercharged” executions that elevate skilled play to cinematic spectacle. These moments feel

like a reward for truly mastering the system, and they never get old.

What truly elevates Ragebound is its dual-character system. Switching between Kenji and Kumori isn’t just cosmetic— it’s central to progression. Kenji thrives in close combat with sword strikes, while Kumori specializes in ranged kunai attacks and teleportation, opening up tactical options in both combat and traversal. The duo can even combine their powers during intense sequences, creating dramatic fusion attacks that clear screens and turn the tide of battle.

While the game pulls no punches in its difficulty, it smartly balances challenge with accessibility. Players new to the genre will find plenty of room to learn, with generous checkpoints and health pickups, while veterans will relish the precise timing and strategic layer of its combat. There’s a satisfying sense of mastery that comes with replaying levels and discovering new movement chains or more efficient ways to dispatch enemies.

Visually, Ragebound stuns

with detailed pixel art and fluid animation that brings its environments and characters to life. Every sword swing, explosion, and enemy defeat is loaded with punchy feedback. The soundtrack, a blend of retro synths and modern orchestration, perfectly complements the kinetic energy on screen and enhances the game’s gritty, high-stakes atmosphere.

With several Ninja Gaiden projects dropping this year, Ragebound boldly stands out. It embraces the franchise’s early side-scrolling identity but evolves it with contemporary mechanics, slick visuals, and smart design. It’s not just a callback—it’s a fullon resurrection, reimagined for a new generation while honoring the hardcore fans who have followed the series since its 8-bit beginnings.

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is shaping up to be a must-play action title this summer. It’s fast, fierce, stylish, and just the right kind of punishing. Whether you’re here for the legacy or the challenge, it’s poised to be one of the most exciting ninja experiences in years.

HOROSCOPES

going on within and without you.

CANCER

It may seem trivial to figure out where to seat everyone at a dinner party, but that’s because you’re the master of orchestrating such events, especially when they take place in your home. This business occupies you now, and rightfully so! You know that happiness is increased when great care is taken with all types of matters big and small. Whatever you’re planning is sure to be a hit.

LEO You’re much fonder of making things public, regardless of the issues, than of keeping them a secret. Still, every now and then it’s absolutely essential to let things out in the right way, and this is one of those times. The good news is that someone has been working behind the scenes for you without you having any inkling that anything was going on.

VIRGO

Think of any recent misfortune as an auspicious sign. If you hadn’t hit this bump and just carried on as usual, it almost certainly would have blown up in your face at exactly the wrong time. As it stands, you have plenty of time to fix whatever isn’t working and get yourself back in the game. Be grateful for this downtime. At least it gives you a chance to take care of business with somewhat less pressure.

LIBRA

Try to combine your altruistic impulses with your amazing ability to host people by throwing a party or dinner for charity. You’re the best at organizing gatherings, no matter what constraints you have to deal with, and you’re totally involved with your community. Do a little research and find a cause that could make good use of your talents, then recruit as many friends as you can find to make it happen.

SCORPIO

You can do almost anything right now as long as you can maintain focus. That includes financial issues and career plans, and it’s time for you to get real, breaking down your big schemes into small, reasonable steps. Not only should your goals become more achievable once you compartmentalize them, you should also be much more motivated to actually get going!

SAGITTARIUS

Someone close insists on sorting out all the little details and then scooting them out of the way, but you know it’s silly to focus on them right now, as so much about the bigger picture remains unknown. Rather than just arguing over what’s important, try to retreat a few steps and work on the parts each of you consider most important. Check in with each other often, and things should go more smoothly for both of you.

CAPRICORN

As usual, you’re seeking the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Keep in mind, though, that truth can be subjective and might depend on who’s talking. Focus on digging up the facts, all the facts, and nothing but. Once you can see everything that you know is for real, you’re able to figure out what everyone else has been right and wrong about lately.

AQUARIUS

Lift up the carpet in your mental living room and take a good look. It’s likely that someone’s been trying to sweep a lot out of sight. You’ve got great insight into matters that go deeper than you may have expected.

PISCES

You

wiTh eddie The game guru

a Pe M brokes H ire Pers P ective

by editor toM sinclair

KEIR STARMER

Two teir keir cares about optics, not outcomes

yesterday, Prime Minister Keir starmer stood next to french President emmanuel Macron and unveiled what was billed as a landmark agreement to tackle small boat crossings. the headlines were bold: Britain and france, working hand-in-hand, had finally reached a deal to return migrants.

But the fine print tells a different story.

NHS WAITING LISTS

We now know the scheme’s scale: just 50 migrants per week would be returned to France under a new “pilot” –that’s 2,600 people per year. Last year, 44,444 people arrived in the UK by small boat. This deal, then, addresses roughly 1 in 17 arrivals. And even that number isn’t guaranteed: it’s subject to French discretion and undefined eligibility criteria. It’s not a breakthrough — it’s a

press release.

Starmer calls it a “step change” in British–French relations. In reality, it’s the bare minimum level of cooperation rebranded as a solution. For every person returned, the UK is expected to accept another migrant from France — someone with a family link or a “genuine claim.” Fair enough, but it still means no overall reduction in numbers, just a reshuffling of names on a spreadsheet.

This is what Two-tier Keir does best: carefully stage-managed announcements, designed to neutralise right-wing attacks, while avoiding real engagement with the complexity of immigration. It’s a politics of optics over outcomes — of headlines over homes, of posturing over policy.

Meanwhile, the rhetoric hardens. This week also saw Starmer refuse to condemn a vile Eleventh Night bonfire in Northern Ireland, where mannequins of refugees in life jackets were placed atop a huge stack of burning pallets. The message: “Stop the boats.”

A grotesque spectacle, eerily reminiscent of 1930s Europe. Yet from No.10? Silence.

And here lies the heart of the

problem. Starmer’s government is fast becoming a regime that cracks down on peaceful protest, brands nonviolent groups like Palestine Action as terrorists, and yet does nothing when hatred is quite literally set on fire.

This is the two-tier system: If you’re a refugee or campaigner, you’re a threat.

If you’re a flag-waving loyalist burning effigies, you’re “expressing culture.”

Real leadership requires moral courage. It requires confronting bigotry, not dodging it. It means designing asylum policy that is fair, effective and humane — not one that simply gestures toward action while the crisis deepens.

Keir Starmer is no longer the opposition. He is the state. And with every passing week, he shows us that his priority is managing appearances, not delivering justice.

We’re uncovering something serious and the NHS needs to answer

answered. People being removed from care pathways not because of anything they did wrong — but because they trusted the system to do its job.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t a small administrative hiccup. It’s not a “postCovid backlog” or the odd human error. This is systemic failure. And it’s happening now.

Under pressure to reduce waiting list numbers, are hospitals quietly removing patients after a single missed call? Are they relying on voicemail-only systems to communicate urgent appointments? Are some referrals never even being processed?

• Who is making these decisions to remove people from waiting lists?

• What safeguards are in place to confirm communication has actually been received?

WHeN we asked readers last week whether they’d ever been removed from a hospital waiting list without warning, we expected a few stories. Maybe a handful of cases. What we didn’t expect was to be flooded with more than 100 detailed accounts in just 48 hours — and still rising.

Each one tells its own painful story. Patients suffering in silence. Parents chasing phantom appointments for their children. Letters that never arrived. Phones that were never

We don’t know — because when we asked the health board how many people had been removed from waiting lists in the last five years, they couldn’t tell us. They didn’t have the figures. We’ve had to file a Freedom of Information request just to try to get to the truth.

• And are targets and pressure from government leading to quiet “clean-ups” of the figures?

If you’re a politician reading this, you should be asking these questions. If you’re in NHS leadership, you should be answering them. Because if the system is quietly failing hundreds of people in our community — then the time for silence is over.

In the meantime, we’re hearing from elderly people who gave up after years of silence. From disabled residents who lost their transport to appointments at the last minute. From patients waiting for heart scans, spinal surgery, cancer follow-ups — all of them now back at square one. And most damning of all, from families who only discovered they had been removed from the system when they begged for an appointment and someone finally checked the screen. This cannot be allowed to drift into the usual cycle of excuses. We need to know:

BADGER: THE FUTURE’S SO BRIGHT...

BADGeR’s world starts and ends in Pembrokeshire.

He knows there is some form of life outside our county, but he can safely ignore it. Everything that affects his daily existence, for good or ill, is right here every day.

Well, to an extent.

Life in Pembrokeshire continues in a steady rhythm. There are two parts to the year: the tourist season and the notthe-tourist season.

During the non-tourist season, everyone complains that the county is deserted and there is no work. During the tourist season, everyone complains that the county is overcrowded and that there are too many poorly paid jobs.

Never mind, though, readers. Badger has heard that there will be a jobs bonanza. Nobodies from the Welsh Parliament and the UK Parliament say there will be, and they know what they’re talking about. Right? Right?!

A free port will come. There will be blue energy, green energy, a floating wind farm generating enough energy to power a 40-watt light bulb in Pwllcrochan, and possibly nuclear fusion.

There will be highly paid jobs for those who move to Pembrokeshire, and menial ones for those already living there. And there’s the prospect of Henry Tufnell unveiling a statue on Milford Docks of a small rubber chicken on a spring and declaring it a symbol of success. All of this will be underwritten by the public, whether through tax breaks for businesses or direct investment of public money into exciting new money pits that overpromise and underdeliver.

It’s not that Badger is cynical about claims of thousands of new opportunities in new industries using new technologies. It’s just that he’s been here before. He expects there will be literally tens of jobs for locals.

Badger has spoken before about the disconnect between what the public needs and what the Welsh and Westminster Governments think they should have. Nowhere is that more apparent than in infrastructure and regeneration projects. For all the good that most of the latter have done, we could have employed strategically placed high explosives and detonated them. Even then, Fishguardians would complain that less of their town was blasted to atoms than Haverfordwest. As for the former,

an exciting new commuters’ bike path between Croesgoch and West Angle via Tavernspite will be just the ticket.

Pembrokeshire’s economic problems are serious, but not for the reasons you might imagine. At the heart of them lies the fact that most Pembrokeshire businesses (i.e. those originating in and based in the county) are microbusinesses, employing very few people. Micro-businesses do not scale up. There is a limit on their capacity for growth. That means that they seldom, if ever, generate significant economic benefits for the wider community. They provide social benefits; small shops, pubs, garages, and farms are often the cornerstone of communities, but their broader economic impacts are tiny.

On the other side of the coin, and like the rest of Wales, Pembrokeshire is over-reliant on public sector jobs. The number of such jobs means that their economic impact is significant. However, because these are service jobs, they do not produce physical or convertible goods.

Moreover, while Pembrokeshire has a rich industrial history, employment density from industry was long gone before the refineries were built along the Cleddau in the 1960s. Private enterprise brought them to Pembrokeshire, and it was private enterprise that kept them going, through contractors, employees, and investment. Those refineries provided economic vitality. Their replacements needed fewer employees, and certainly fewer skilled and well-paid ones.

The result is that Pembrokeshire has remained economically stagnant for almost three decades, waiting for the next big thing to arrive. Tourism stepped into the gap.

The relationship between Pembrokeshire and tourism is complex. Tourism, leisure, and hospitality drive other economic activities. However, they also consume finite resources, such as land and property.

Most jobs in tourism, leisure, and hospitality are lower-paid than the average, part-time, or seasonal. That means locals cannot earn enough during the tourist season to survive in the offseason. Because jobs in those sectors are lower-paid, locals cannot afford to get onto the property ladder, as property prices are driven by external demand from those with higher disposable

incomes. Examples of that are visitors buying a second home or a property being converted into a short-term rental for profit. However, Pembrokeshire’s economy without tourism is like Tenby in January: dismal.

Because many families in Pembrokeshire’s towns are descendants of incomers who moved to the county in the latter half of the twentieth century, they tend to show indifference or hostility towards Pembrokeshire’s other major economic driver.

Farms are typically small businesses, employing a small number of people. However, because they produce volume consumer goods for which there is demand, their impact is out of all proportion to their size.

Agriculture is a nexus of economic activity. Farming is a 365-day activity. Farms need supplies (seed, feed, stock), services (mechanics, vets, accountants), capital (milking parlours, buildings, vehicles, machinery), and they provide goods to processors, wholesalers, and retailers.

If you take farms away from that chain of activity, the economy supported

by them falls to bits.

It follows from the above that for Pembrokeshire to thrive, it needs the Westminster and Welsh governments to have policies that enable its economic drivers to thrive and survive. However, all the tax breaks and public investment are headed only to schemes of the same species as those that have failed or underdelivered in the past. Big ideas, big ambitions, and a massive waste of public money.

The other (and proven) economic drivers, tourism and agriculture, are being clobbered by governments at either end of the M4 who have been blinded by a future so bright that they’ve gotta wear shades. The failure of successive governments to plan for the future and their concentration on “the vision thing” has dogged the UK for decades. However, the current governments’ focus on big and distant targets risks damaging Pembrokeshire’s economic foundations.

There must be a balance, and Cardiff Bay and Westminster have got it wrong; wrong for Pembrokeshire, wrong for Wales, and wrong for the UK.

Trial by peers? Only if you’re lucky enough to have a trial at all

Well folks, the jury is out –quite literally. According to sir Brian Leveson, former judge and current prophet of doom, jury trials are now a bit of an optional extra. like sunroofs on second-hand skodas or soap in the toilets at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Apparently, only around 1% of criminal cases in England and Wales are actually decided by a jury. One per cent! The other 99% are either guilty pleas, quiet acquittals, or shunted off to magistrates who – bless them –are doing their best despite being one parking ticket away from a nervous breakdown.

Now Leveson wants to make things even more “efficient” by removing the right to a jury for offences with a maximum sentence of two years or less. That might sound fair enough until you realise what kinds of offences fall into that bracket: assault, stalking, fraud, harassment, resisting arrest... you know, just the usual bits of fun that can ruin a life.

He also thinks complex fraud cases should be left to judges because, apparently, jurors get confused when presented with more than two Excel spreadsheets and a calculator. Maybe we should just let accountants run the courts, if that’s the logic.

To be fair, Sir Brian isn’t pretending this is ideal. He says we’re staring down the barrel of “total system collapse.” And frankly, if you’ve spent any time watching the wheels come off at the Crown Court lately, you’ll know he’s not exaggerating. Nearly 80,000 cases are stuck in the pipeline. Witnesses wait years to give evidence. Victims see their hopes of justice go mouldy. Defendants, guilty or not, are left dangling for so long you could write a Netflix series about their wait for trial.

The Herald has covered plenty of these delays – people hauled into court months, even years after the alleged offence, only for the case to collapse because the evidence is lost, the officer’s retired, or someone forgot to book a translator. It’s not justice, it’s a game of musical chairs played with blindfolds and broken radios.

And this isn’t new. This mess started long before Covid turned the courts into Zoom roulette. The rot set in when

George Osborne treated the Ministry of Justice like an afterthought, leaving crumbling courtrooms, underpaid staff, and a legal aid system held together by paperclips and prayers.

Now Labour is in power and stuck trying to patch things up without actually spending much money. More sitting days, more judges, sure – but it’s a bit like painting over the cracks in a condemned building and hoping nobody notices the smell of damp and defeat.

And so we end up here: having to choose between our principles and our practicality. Keep jury trials as a sacred right, and let the backlog grow until the

wheels fall off. Or sacrifice that right in the name of getting through the list, as if justice were some sort of fast-food drive-thru. “Guilty or not, love? No time for sauce.”

Let’s be honest – no one wants to get rid of juries. But when you’re given a budget that wouldn’t cover the car park at Swansea Crown, options shrink faster than public confidence in the system. And when cuts become tradition, “reform” becomes code for “you’ll be lucky to get anything at all.”

Which brings me back to Pembrokeshire. Ever tried to follow a local case through the system? It’s like

watching a pigeon cross the Cleddau Bridge: slow, baffling, and liable to get flattened at any moment. If this is the system working, I dread to think what collapse looks like.

So yes, Sir Brian might be right that we’re out of options. But let’s not kid ourselves – this isn’t reform, it’s triage. And if jury trial is sacrificed now, don’t expect it to be quietly restored when things settle down. These rights, once gone, rarely come back without a fight. And if you do end up in court, don’t worry – Stephen Seagull’s got your back. Just try not to mention spreadsheets, or it’s the judge for you, sunshine.

RSPCA reveals top five wild animals in Wales who need your help

tHe RsPCA has revealed that hedgehogs are the wildlife most likely to need help this summer in Walesas the animal welfare charity launches a new ‘local Animal Hero’ guide to mobilise local residents to help sick and injured animals.

New findings from the RSPCA’s new 2025 Animal Kindness Index, the charity’s annual survey into the UK’s attitude towards animals, shows that 53% of people in Wales don’t feel confident about what to do if they find sick or injured wildlife.

In response, the animal welfare charity is calling on people across the country to be a Local Animal Hero. Their new training video, featuring RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Emma Baker, aims to teach local residents how to help small wild animals and pets in need and create their own rescue box.

While many animals need specialist support, there are lots of small wildlife and pets which people can safely help. Of these, hedgehogs were the wild animals most likely to need public help across England and Wales - with 9,546 entering RSPCA centres in 2024, followed by wood pigeons (6,521), mallard ducks (3,806), feral

environmentalist, Dr Mya-Rose Craig, has joined the call for people in Wales to take the first step to learning how they can help wildlife in need in their neighbourhood.

She said: “The RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index shows that while many people in Wales want to do their bit, many would struggle to know what to do if they came across an animal in need. By learning to become a Local Animal Hero, anyone can find out what to do if they find a sick or injured animal who needs help. Learning how to safely handle small wildlife or pets and building a rescue box to keep in your car can make a big difference for animals.

“No matter where in the country you are, there are so many different animals that share our environment - and it’s up to us to help make sure that they are living their best lives this summer too. By doing a kind act this summer, we can all help to create a better world for every animal.”

It comes as 61% of Wales people say that protecting wildlife is the most important issue the animal welfare charity should be dealing with - while more than nine in 10 people say that wildlife needs to be protected in our towns and cities, as well as in the countryside.

Gemma Hope, the RSPCA’s Assistant Director for Policy, Advocacy and Evidence, explained that the Animal Kindness Index results show a rise in concern about wildlife this year.

She said: “This year’s Animal Kindness Index shows high levels of concern for the future of wildlife.

“When the world is uncertain and volatile, people may feel protective over the world around them, including the animals that share their neighbourhood - and 78% of people in Wales thought that human survival depends on protecting the survival of wildlife.

pigeons (2,909) and blackbirds (1,782). The charity said that while they cared for more than 47,000 animals last year, often people don’t realise the fastest way to get many small animals help is to take them to a local vet themselves.

RSPCA supporter ornithologist and

Last year, more than 10,000 animals were admitted to the RSPCA’s four wildlife centres - with more than a quarter of those in June and July alone. Reasons included animals being orphaned, injured, attacked by another animal or collisions with vehicles.

And with June and July also being the busiest months for the RSPCA dealing with cruelty and neglect calls too, help from the public frees up the charity’s frontline officers to help even more animals.

“The RSPCA is committed to creating a kinder world for every animal, but we can’t do it without help from the public - so we really hope our new video inspires people to get involved and become Local Animal Heroes.”

Take a kind act for animals this summer and learn how to be a Local Animal Hero. Visit rspca. org.uk/rescuebox to watch the video and sign up to get your Animal Hero badge.

To find out more about what people think about animals in 2025, visit the RSPCA Kindness Index.

Creative skills funding opens doors for young Welsh talent

A GROuNDBReAkING pilot project designed to improve access to careers in gaming and animation has helped young people in Wales take major steps towards higher education and employment in the creative industries.

Eighty per cent of the thirty students who took part in Media Academy Cymru’s (MAC) inaugural Gêm Project have now progressed to further education courses across South Wales. Four students are currently studying games-related degrees at university, and one is already working as a game tester with one of Wales’ leading development studios.

MAC specialises in alternative education programmes for 16–25-year-olds not in education or employment. The organisation is internationally recognised for its work supporting young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system.

The Gêm Project received over £140,000 in Welsh Government funding through the Creative Wales Skills Fund, launched to support grassroots development in key creative sectors. The funding allowed MAC to create three bespoke courses, giving students a chance to explore gaming careers, meet industry professionals, and playtest new titles ahead of their release.

Following its success, the Gêm Project is now delivered as a mainstream course in partnership with Cardiff and Vale College. Its popularity has also inspired a new initiative: the Animeiddio Project, an animation course aimed at young people with diverse educational backgrounds. Funded through a second round of Creative Wales Skills funding, the programme includes a structured curriculum and access to industry networking events such as the Cardiff Animation Festival.

Last week, Culture Minister Jack Sargeant visited MAC’s current cohort of animation students. He said: “The

Families urged to check if they qualify for school

faMILIes in Pembrokeshire are being encouraged to check whether they are eligible for financial support with the cost of school essentials, as part of a Welsh Government scheme.

Welsh Labour Members of

the Senedd, Eluned Morgan and Joyce Watson, are promoting the School Essentials Grant, which offers up to £200 per child to help with items such as school uniforms, shoes, bags and learning materials.

Eluned Morgan MS said:

importance of the creative industries to Wales is clear –it’s about jobs, culture and our identity. Meeting the animation students at MAC was inspiring –these young people are incredibly talented and passionate about their craft.

“Programmes like the Animeiddio Project are exactly what we need to ensure our creative sector reflects all of Wales, providing pathways for diverse talent to thrive.”

One of the current students, AJ, 20, described how the course had helped her rebuild confidence after a difficult period out of education:

“I had agoraphobia for a long time and couldn’t leave the house. This is my first year back and everybody is so understanding. It’s the best thing that could possibly have happened.

“I hope to study here again next year, which should give me the grades to go to university. Eventually, I want to set up my own studio and develop an animation series I’ve been working on for ten years.”

Across two rounds of funding, the Creative Wales Skills Fund has supported 34 projects with a total investment of £3 million. A recent evaluation of the first round revealed that over 27,000 individuals and 300 companies have benefitted, with 488 training courses delivered and 300 work placements secured.

essentials grant

in need.”

The grant, introduced by the Welsh Labour Government in 2018, has already provided over £62million to more than 170,000 families across Wales in the past two years.

Joyce Watson MS added:

“This funding continues to be a vital source of support for families here in Pembrokeshire. I’d urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to visit gov. wales/school-essentials-granthelp-school-costs or contact me directly on 0300 200 7093, or Eluned on 0300 200 7264.”

“As families continue to face cost-of-living pressures, it’s reassuring to know that help is available to ensure every child has access to the clothing, books and equipment they need. Welsh Labour will always prioritise supporting those most

Eligible families can receive £125 per child per year. Children entering year 7 may qualify for £200 due to the increased cost of starting secondary school. All looked-after children are automatically entitled to the grant.

Applications for this year’s grant are now open and will close on 31 May 2026.

Petition to save Paternoster Farm hits nearly 2,000

A PetItION calling for a full review and debate of Pembrokeshire’s “not fit for purpose” county farm policy has attracted nearly 2,000 signatures, triggering it being debated by councillors at a future meeting.

The Pembrokeshire County Council e-petition was launched by tenants being forced to leave their council-owned farm which is host to a Good Food Guide accredited restaurant, and attracted 1,822 signatures.

Paternoster Farm near Hundleton, which has a restaurant in the old milking shed, has featured in the Good Food Guide for the last three years.

The restaurant is run by former family solicitor, Michelle Evans, with this year’s Good Food Guide describing Paternoster

Farm as ‘earthy and rustic’ with deliciousness, warmth and strength of recommendation all described as good, while the restaurant’s uniqueness was rated as very good.

However, the acclaimed business built up over the last four years is now under threat, as the ten-year farm tenancy with Pembrokeshire County Council comes to an end.

In the e-petition to Pembrokeshire County Council, which has now closed, Leum Evans asked: “We call on Pembrokeshire County Council to conduct a full and thorough review of county farm policy.

“We call for a declaration that current county farm policy is not fit for purpose when it fails to encourage

diversification in a way that adds value to a farm’s own produce, keeps the produce within the farm, and feeds the local community, when policy fails to support a holding such as Paternoster Farm.

“We call for a motion of no confidence in both county farm policy, and the county farm estate department. We call upon Pembrokeshire County Council to commission an independent review of farm policy by suitably qualified (independent) third parties.

“We call for a full debate on the future of the county farm estate, and whether its continued existence, in its current form, can even be justified. We call upon Pembrokeshire County Council to commission how Public Procurement Policy could effect a link between county farms, and school meals in the county.”

The petition went on to say: “Current county farm policy has been shown to support neither farm diversification nor integration into the community. This has been illustrated by the recent treatment of the current tenants of Paternoster Farm.

“If county farm policy does not support and encourage our type of farming enterprise, one which farms the holding to its fullest whilst caring for the land, farms regeneratively, provides employment, fosters community links, supports a wealth of local businesses, supports local schools, feeds farm produce to the community every single week of the year, then it cannot possibly be said to be fit for purpose.”

It claims £50m of public money is invested in county farms for

42 tenants, adding: “Is this a fair and equitable distribution of local authority resources when county farm policy does nothing to encourage any benefit to the wider community?”

It finished: “It is all very well to seek to help new entrants into farming, but what are the authority really trying to achieve? Farming for farming’s sake is not enough. The authority has to ask, who will benefit, and to what extent?”

Pembrokeshire County Council has previously said that proposals at Paternoster were in line with council policy, with novice farmers being offered a smaller farm while they get established in the industry before moving on to bigger establishments.

“Pembrokeshire County Council owns a farm estate for the expressed purpose of providing those who wish to farm a way of entering into the industry,” said a council spokesman.

“To fulfil this function, tenancies are not for life but are for a fixed term, to enable tenants to ‘move on’ to larger farm holdings, as these tenants are being offered the opportunity to do.”

The council said that the 10-year lease entered into with Michelle and her family reflected this policy, with them now offered a tenancy at a larger council farm holding.

Anyone who lives, works or studies within the Pembrokeshire County Council area may sign or organise a petition. This includes anyone under the age of 18.

If the petition gets 500 signatures, the creator will have an opportunity to debate it at a full council meeting.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Technology and simple changes can boost Welsh farm profits

teCHNOlOGY has the potential to revolutionise Welsh farming –but new research suggests some farms could achieve similar savings by simply improving their daily routines.

That’s the conclusion of a recent study by Irish agricultural body Teagasc, which worked alongside Farming Connect in Wales to assess how technology and practical changes can increase efficiency on farms.

At a series of Farming Connect events held across Wales, experts told farmers that tweaking working practices – rather than investing in expensive gadgets – could offer huge returns.

“It’s often the smallest changes that make the biggest difference,” said Conor Hogan, who manages the People in Dairy programme at Teagasc. “Something as basic as how the day is structured, or how the milking parlour is staffed, can save hours every week.”

BIG dIffereNCes IN WOrKING HOuRs

One study involving 90 dairy farms showed a wide gap in the number of labour hours worked per cow per year – from 23.8 hours at the most efficient farms to 38.9 hours at the least.

This difference, Hogan said, equates to more than 2,000 hours a year – worth around £34,000 if costed at £15 an hour.

The most efficient farms followed a

set routine each day, while less efficient ones were more haphazard – leading to longer working days and lower profits.

Low-cost changes can pay off

OtHeR IMPROVeMeNts

suGGesteD INCluDe:

• Streamlining milking: Automating cluster removal (ACR) systems and installing exit gates that can be controlled remotely means one worker can manage the parlour, saving time and money.

• Better calf feeding: Automatic feeders can increase efficiency by 20%, though Hogan warned that returns vary depending on existing systems.

• Grazing infrastructure: Investing in

basic trackways, fencing and water points can deliver rapid returns by reducing labour demands.

Be ReAlIstIC ABOut teCH ROI

Although technology can be transformative, Hogan urged farmers to be cautious.

“Tech like heat detection collars can be as good as a skilled stockperson,” he said. “But if a farm already has excellent fertility rates, the return on investment may not justify the cost.”

He added that some benefits – such as better cow health or early detection of lameness – are harder to quantify but may shorten the payback period, especially with grants.

Case study: Rhodri Jones

Rhodri and Siwan Jones, who converted their family sheep and beef farm at Penparc, Llanerfyl into a springcalving dairy unit, hosted one of the Farming Connect events.

They now milk 197 cows on 65 hectares, achieving strong performance with simple, low-cost systems.

Rhodri considered investing in heat detection collars but concluded they wouldn’t significantly improve fertility on their farm. He is, however, open to exploring other labour-saving tech like automatic calf feeders.

“It’s important to stay openminded,” said Rhodri. “Technology might help us streamline the business even further.”

eNvIrONMeNtaL BeNefIts

Dr Non Williams, Farming Connect’s carbon specialist, said precision agriculture – such as GPS and sensors – could reduce waste and cut emissions by improving productivity per input. New trials of biomethane-powered machinery, running on gas collected from slurry stores and anaerobic digesters, also offer more environmentally friendly alternatives to diesel.

Williams noted that technology like heat detection collars could indirectly reduce the carbon footprint by improving reproduction rates and reducing the number of bulls on-farm.

For more information visit: www.gov. wales/farmingconnect

From foundation to future - FUW looks forward to 2025 Royal Welsh Show

the farmers’ Union of Wales (fUW) is set to mark a significant milestone at the 2025 royal Welsh show, opening its pavilion doors to celebrate 70 years since its establishment.

As the flagship agricultural event opens its gates in Llanelwedd from July 21st to the 24th, the FUW will reflect on its proud history of championing Welsh family farms while firmly setting its sights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Welsh agriculture.

fOUNdatION

Established in 1955, the FUW was born from a belief that the distinct interests of Welsh farmers required an independent and dedicated voice. For seven decades, the Union has since stood as a steadfast advocate, securing formal government recognition in 1978 and consistently working to ensure the economic viability and sustainability of family farms across Wales.

Today, the FUW’s founding principles of thriving, sustainable family farms continue at the heart of the Union’s work, as we represent and support thousands of members across Wales.

As part of the celebrations, a special panel discussion will be held at the FUW pavilion on Wednesday 23 July 2025 at 11:00. Chaired by renowned broadcaster Dei Tomos, the panel will bring together a range of familiar faces to reflect on seven decades of the FUW. The event will discuss the changes and challenges over the years, and address the evolving landscape facing the future of Welsh agriculture.

Tickets will also be on sale for the FUW’s special birthday raffle, with a chance to win a Honda TRX420 FE1 (Electric

morning.

Shift) ATV and safety helmet worth in excess of £10,000. Tickets are available for the bargain price of £5 each and will be on sale at the FUW pavilion throughout the week, and can also be purchased online. Profits for the raffle will go towards the Wales Air Ambulance.

fUtUre

As well as an opportunity to reflect on the Union’s history, the Show also offers a crucial opportunity to look forward, with a particular focus on future farm funding frameworks, and what work can be done to incentivise and support the next generation of farmers.

With the industry waiting in anticipation for the final Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), a question and answer session at the FUW pavilion on Monday morning at 11:00 will provide an opportunity to hear the FUW’s reaction and our efforts to improve the Scheme design over recent months.

Chaired by Farmers Weekly reporter, Anne Dunn, FUW Head of Policy, Gareth Parry, will be joined by Welsh Government’s Mark Alexander, providing an opportunity for members and the public to ask questions on the Scheme design and expectations.

Wednesday morning will also provide insight on future farm funding, with the FUW hosting a discussion focused on the Welsh Government’s new Ffermio Bro agri-environment scheme, with a discussion on how it can support farmers and nature in National Parks and Designated Landscapes in Wales. Representatives from the FUW, Ffermio Bro team and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park will be present at the discussion at 9:30am at the FUW pavilion on Wednesday

Looking towards the future, Tuesday will see the FUW launch their policy report ‘A Mandate for Future Farmers’, outlining the Union’s vision to increase the opportunities for young farmers and new entrants in Wales. The document will outline key asks of both the Welsh and UK governments, as well as the wider farming community, to nurture the next generation of farmers. Held at the FUW pavilion on Tuesday morning at 11:15, the launch will provide an opportunity for an array of young farmers and new entrants to share their own experiences, as well as insight from representatives from Wales’ Young Farmers Clubs and Farming Connect.

Commenting ahead of the Royal Welsh Show, FUW President Ian Rickman said: “The Royal Welsh Show is the highlight of Wales’ agricultural calendar. I cannot wait to be in Llanelwedd once again this year, catching up with members, engaging with politicians and stakeholders, and having an opportunity to partake in discussions focusing on the changes and challenges facing Welsh agriculture.

“With the FUW celebrating our 70th birthday, this year’s Show offers a unique opportunity to look both backwards and forwards - commemorating our foundation with events focused on the future of Welsh farming.

“You’ll find a warm welcome at the FUW pavilion throughout the week. We’re eager to speak with everyone as we celebrate our achievements of standing strong for family farms over the past seven decades, and cast our eyes forward to the next 70 years of Welsh agriculture.”

Beyond the exciting events and celebrations, the FUW pavilion will be a hub of activity all week. Members and the public alike can stop by for tea, coffee, and refreshments.

Embracing a family-friendly approach, the FUW is also looking forward to selling milkshakes in the Lle Llaeth, meanwhile a ‘name the cow’ competition, a cow milking competition and a virtual reality ATV experience are sure to provide entertainment for all the family. For those who enjoy live music, the popular Welsh language group Bwncath will be returning to the pavilion for a gig on Tuesday night.

With July upon us, all roads lead to Builth Wells, with the royal Welsh show less than a fortnight away. As well as showcasing the best of rural Wales, the show will be a significant milestone for the fUW as we celebrate 70 years since our establishment in 1955.

Whilst a lot has changed politically, socially and agriculturally over the past seven decades, the FUW’s founding principles of thriving, sustainable family farms continue at the heart of the Union’s work as we continue to represent thousands of members across Wales.

As part of the celebrations, a special panel discussion will be held at the FUW pavilion on Wednesday at 11:00 and is open to all. The panel will bring together a range of familiar faces to reflect on changes and challenges over the years, and address the evolving landscape facing the future of Welsh agriculture.

As well as an opportunity to reflect on the Union’s history, the Show also offers a crucial opportunity to look forward, with a particular focus on future farm funding frameworks and what work can be done to incentivise and support the next generation of farmers.

With the industry waiting in anticipation for the final Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), a question and answer session on Monday morning at 11:00 will provide an

opportunity to hear the FUW’s reaction, as well as a question and answer session with the Welsh Government, providing an opportunity for members and the public to ask questions on the Scheme design and expectations.

Wednesday morning will also provide insight on future farm funding, with the FUW hosting a discussion on Wednesday morning focused on the Welsh Government’s new Ffermio Bro agrienvironment scheme, with a discussion on how it can support farmers and nature in National Parks and Designated Landscapes in Wales.

Tuesday will see the FUW launch their policy report ‘A Mandate for Future Farmers’, outlining our vision to increase the opportunities for young farmers and new entrants in Wales. The document will outline key asks of both the Welsh and UK governments, as well as the wider farming community, to nurture the next generation of farmers. Held at the FUW pavilion on Tuesday morning at 11:15, the launch will provide an opportunity for an array of young farmers and new entrants to share their own experiences, as well as insight from representatives from Wales’ Young Farmers Clubs and Farming Connect.

There’ll be a warm welcome at the FUW pavilion throughout the week, so don’t hesitate to call by for a cuppa and a catch-up!

The Kia EV5 tailors electric mobility for European drivers

the Kia ev5 brings electric innovation to the C-sUv segment, europe’s largest and fastest-growing vehicle segment. Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated electric-Global Modular Platform (e-GMP) ev architecture with 400v technology, the ev5 combines bold sUv styling, real-world practicality and cutting-edge technology. With a rugged yet refined design, spacious and flexible cabin, and advanced electric features, the ev5 is engineered to meet the expectations and lifestyles of European customers.

A strategic model in Kia’s electrification strategy

Under Kia’s global ‘Plan S’ electrification roadmap, the EV5 plays an important role in reinforcing the company’s leadership in sustainable mobility across Europe.

“The EV5 is a cornerstone of Kia’s European growth strategy,” says Sjoerd Knipping, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Europe.

“We are entering Europe’s most competitive EV segment with a model that blends our iconic ‘Opposites United’ design, everyday practicality, and innovation rooted in electric mobility. This is us reaffirming our commitment to sustainable mobility, tailored to the way Europeans live, work, and drive.”

Designed keeping Europe in mind

True to Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the EV5’s aesthetic reflects a rugged, yet refined design

tailored to European tastes. The EV5 features a strong, boxy silhouette, a prominent D-pillar, and Kia’s ‘Star Map’ lighting signature at the front and rear. A trio of wheel options – 18- or 19inch wheels for the base model, 19-inch wheels for the stylised EV5 ‘GT-Line’, and later, 20-inch wheels for the sporty EV5 ‘GT’ –offer both visual and functional benefits.

The cabin also accommodates the practical needs of European lifestyles. The rear seats fold completely flat, maximising boot space and creating a generous loading area of up to two metres in length. Organisational features, including the drawer-style centre console storage, make it ideal for both the city and outdoor activities, seamlessly adapting to urban life and excursions into nature.

Inside, the EV5 creates a lounge-like environment. Comfort-focused seats include massage functions for the driver, four-way lumbar support, heating, and ventilation. Interior materials include recycled PET in the seats and carpets; bio foam in the seats, centre console, and headrests; and BTX-free paint on the doors, dashboard, and centre console.

Engineered for Europe’s roads and climates

European drivers need performance that matches all conditions. With a long-range 81.4kWh battery pack, the EV5 offers up to 329 miles of range on a single charge (WLTP estimated)1. All EV5 variants support fast charging, from 10-to80% in as little as 30 minutes2.

car Navigation Cockpit) system, including a panoramic wide display combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 5.3inch climate control display. Over-the-air (OTA) updates and the Kia Upgrades platform keep the model future-ready, with new features and services being released over time.

Connectivity, especially routing, has been improved. The EV5 is equipped with Online Navigation, a feature that provides live map information to the car and pulls data from the server, which is updated every four weeks.

The three-zone climate control system ensures comfort for everyone onboard. The streamlined physical interface offers a clean look, with a handful of essential buttons for maximum usability on-the-move.

Engineered on Kia’s E-GMP architecture, the EV5 offers an i-Pedal 3.0 system for effortless one-pedal driving. The Smart Regeneration System Plus enhances energy efficiency and ride comfort, using navigation data to automatically adjust braking and speed ahead of junctions, speed limit changes, and more. A nextgeneration battery heating and cooling function not only makes cabin heating more efficient, but the system also preserves the all-electric range (AER) in cold conditions, guaranteeing reliable battery performance across the continent’s varying climates –from Nordic winters to summers on the Mediterranean.

With bi-directional charging, including Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) offering up to 3.6kW of power, the EV5 empowers drivers to use the vehicle’s battery to power and charge external devices with an interior socket or an external adapter. The model is also equipped with Vehicle-toGrid (V2G) hardware, ready for operation once infrastructure or single country regulations allow.

“We engineered the EV5 with our European customers in mind,” says Pablo Martínez Masip, Vice President of Product & Marketing.

“From its versatile seating arrangements and year-round battery performance to its robust SUV styling and advanced ccNC, each and every detail reflects the unique expectations of European drivers who want not only function but also looks.”

Smart tech for top connectivity

The EV5 is equipped with Kia’s latest ccNC (connected

Convenience and security are enhanced with features such as Digital Key 2.0, fingerprint recognition, and Harman Kardon Premium Audio, reflecting European customers’ desire for intuitive, high-end technology.

Safety that meets European expectations

Meeting high standards for safety on European roads, the EV5 features seven airbags, structural reinforcements, and the latest suite of Kia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The EV5 will be one of Kia’s first models with the latest version of Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA). Based on customer feedback, audio notifications have been improved for driver comfort.

On top of intelligently adapting the speed of travel, Smart Cruise Control 2 (SCC2) can, in the event of an emergency, bring the vehicle to a full stop if the driver is unresponsive.

Additionally, Parking Collision-avoidance Assist - Rear has been expanded to include the front and side as well (PCAF/S/R). The system uses sensors and cameras to help prevent collisions in the front, side, and rear while parking.

Furthermore, Highway Driving Assist 2 with Hands-On Detection (HDA 2 with HOD) helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, stay centred in the lane, change lanes, and adjust lateral positioning.

Finally, for even greater convenience, drivers can use Remote Smart Parking Assist 2.0 (RSPA 2.0) to enter or exit a parking space, even from outside the car.

1.2

Nissan Qashqai wins best British-built electrified car award

tHe British-built Nissan Qashqai has secured yet another prestigious award for its advanced electrified powertrain.

Eco Car has named Qashqai the best home-grown electrified car of the year, reserving special praise for its innovative e-POWER technology, which is also set for a major upgrade later this year.

Ian Robertson, Editor of Eco Car, said: “The British-built medium SUV is one of the most popular new cars on sale today for very good reason, as it’s hugely versatile, comfortable, wellequipped and good value. It’s also efficient, with a long list of standard equipment as standard, and a choice of five feature packed models.

“It’s our favourite British-built electrified car of 2025 – a big round of applause to the British designers, engineers and factory workers that make it all possible.”

First launched in the region four years ago, e-POWER was developed to deliver an electric-drive experience without the need to plug in - combining the smooth, effortless acceleration and refinement of an EV with the everyday convenience of traditional combustion power.

A new and comprehensively reengineered model arrives this summer with improved fuel economy of up to 62mpg (WLTP) – meaning you could

travel from Sunderland to Paris on a single tank of fuel, and still have 100 miles to spare!

James Taylor, managing director of Nissan GB, added: “Our e-POWER

technology is perfect for customers looking to get the sensation of driving an electric vehicle, but who are not quite ready to go full EV and want the familiarity of a petrol powertrain.

“Huge thanks to the Eco Car team for recognising this unique hybrid technology and celebrating an electrified car that’s built right here in Britain.”

XPENG UK chooses Ohme as its official home EV charging partner

xPeNG uk has chosen Ohme as its new and exclusive home eV charging partner.

The new partnership will make it easy for XPENG customers to transition to an electric vehicle, with the provision of a home EV charger and installation service available to customers via the XPENG UK retail network.

“XPENG is one of the most exciting new electric brands, so it’s fantastic to

be partnering with such a fast-growing company,” said Peter McDonald, Ohme Mobility Director. “We’re looking forward to bringing the Ohme benefits of easy charging and low running costs to XPENG customers.”

XPENG, a leading Chinese hightech car company, arrived in the UK in January 2025 and launched its first model, the all-electric XPENG G6. The highly anticipated XPENG G6 is

a mid-size coupe SUV that combines high performance with cutting-edge technology and zero tailpipe emissions. Its next-generation operating systems and premium standard features will provide a seamless, technologyintegrated driving experience that aims to set a new benchmark in electric mobility for UK drivers.

Ohme, the UK’s largest home EV charging company and the fastest growing EV charging company in Europe, will be providing XPENG’s customers with a complete charger, installation and support package as well as training and assistance for retailers.

To support the UK launch, customers purchasing an XPENG G6 Long Range will be eligible for a complimentary Ohme home EV charger until the end of September.

“We are delighted that we will be partnering with Ohme as our exclusive home charger supplier,” said William Brown, XPENG UK Managing Director. “Intuitive, everyday mobility is one of XPENG’s fundamental values and Ohme’s unique dynamic charging capabilities, user-friendly app and excellent customer service make it the ideal partner for us, our customers

and the development of our retailer network.”

Ohme’s dynamic EV chargers use live data from the grid and are compatible with the UK’s best and most affordable energy tariffs. Ohme chargers automatically adjust to optimise the cost of charging and accessing all the times of the smartest, greenest and lowest cost energy tariffsa as well as featuring a solar boost function reducing reliance on the grid.

Fully-charging an XPENG G6 Long Range with an 87.5kWh battery using an Ohme on a dynamic EV tariff such as Intelligent Octopus Go*, could cost just £6.13 for its 354 mile WLTP range. Ohme also offers drivers the option to charge their car when renewable energy generation on the national grid is at its highest, further lowering their CO2 impact.

Ohme is the official charger provider for Motability Operations, the largest fleet operator in the UK and has just won two awards from Business Motoring for Best Electric Charging Point Provider and Best Electric Van Charging Point Provider.

For more information go to: www. ohme-ev.com

New sourdough bakery opens at Milford Marina

A NeW artisan bakery is opening its doors this week at Milford haven Marina, bringing the scent of freshly baked sourdough back to the town.

Cariad Sourdough, founded by local baker Leah Ferris, will officially open to customers at 11:00am on Tuesday (July 8), filling a long-missed gap in Milford Haven’s food scene.

Leah, who grew up in the town, has spent her entire career

in the food industry — including a spell as a pastry and dessert chef at Gordon Ramsay’s prestigious Chelsea restaurant. She began baking sourdough at home early last year and started sharing her creations online, quickly attracting a loyal local following. What began as weekend orders for friends soon became a thriving microbusiness. A year later, Leah left her job in new product development at Puffin

Produce to bake full time.

Her bread and sweet bakes became regular fixtures at local markets and food festivals, with support from her daughter Olivia. She also supplied several wellknown Pembrokeshire eateries including Nourish, Martha’s and The Brewery Inn.

“When the chance came to take on a unit at the marina, I thought – why not go for it?” Leah said. “I’d completely outgrown

my home kitchen.”

Now, after months of preparation, Cariad Sourdough is ready to launch in the former café unit overlooking the waterfront.

The bakery will offer a wide range of handmade sourdough loaves, focaccia, pizzas, and sweet items like brownies and cookies. Leah will also be stocking a handpicked selection of local and Welsh produce including Pembrokeshire Gold rapeseed oil, Bluestone Coffee, El Salsa condiments, Gelato 44 and Heartsease Farm soft drinks.

“I’ve met some brilliant local producers at events and I’m really proud to be able to showcase their products too,” she added. “I want to keep it as Welsh and local as possible.”

Cariad Sourdough held a soft launch during Saturday’s (July 5) Milford Haven Carnival, attracting strong interest from passers-by.

“There’s no bakery in Milford at the moment, and people have been stopping to say how much the town needs one,” said Leah. “It’s been my dream to open a food business here — and now it’s real.”

More information and updates are available on Cariad Sourdough’s Facebook page.

Plans for ‘glamping’ site close to Welsh Wildlife Centre

AN APPlICAtION to site a campsite close to the Welsh Wildlife Centre has been submitted to Pembrokeshire planners.

In the application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Zoe Delaney, through agent Archi Tech, is seeking permission for a change of use of agricultural land to a tourism site, including two bell tents, two yurt-style tents and two ‘glamping’ dome-style tents, parking, and associated works at land adjacent to Coolawn, Cilgerran.

A supporting statement says: “Given the sites close proximity to the Welsh Wildlife Centre, the proposal offers a good opportunity to support local conservation initiatives,” adding: “The Welsh Wildlife Centre currently offer educational services and craft skills in addition to organised group walks and bird watching.

“Occupiers of the campsite would be able to walk to such

events from the campsite and partake in activities which are provided to raise awareness of environmental issues in an attempt to promote more sustainable ways of living and a reduce carbon emissions.”

It goes on to say: “The scheme provides three types of accommodation which are more commonly used in today’s campsites. The variety of accommodation allows choice to campers who may prefer a luxury filled tent, such as the dome which offers home comforts

such as a log burner, or more modest living within the yurt-type accommodation.

“Each of the units are constructed of high-quality natural materials. Lower impact units of accommodation are proposed which are more sustainable than typical forms of accommodations such as hotels, guesthouses or bed and breakfast units. The array of accommodation types will allow people the freedom of choice to choose an accommodation type of their preference and give rise to a range of accommodation types across the county.”

It finishes: “By virtue of a comprehensive landscaping which includes new hedgerows, shrubs, and trees, the proposal would see a significant net gain to the landscaping, biodiversity and positive environmental impact as a result of the development. The screening of the proposal softens any perceived visual impact which will be read in a similar context to that of the existing built form surrounding the site with a limited effect to the landscape.”

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

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Major development at Hayscastle farm refused by planners

A CAll to allow a Pembrokeshire farm diversification which packages and distributes specialist medical equipment across europe to relocate to an agricultural building has been turned down by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Mr Van Der Spoel of Castle Villa Farm, Hayscastle, through agent Harries Planning Design Management, sought permission for the relocation and expansion of an existing farm diversification business into an existing agricultural building.

A supporting statement said the applicant, together with his wife and adult daughter ran the farm diversification at their 135-acre sheep farm.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

It added: “The business run from this site is FRIO ASTRID EURO Ltd, which has a franchise agreement with FRIO UK. This business has been run from Castle Villa since its incorporation in 1998. The business was initially run from the stable building on the farmyard at Castle Villa.

“The business set-up involves receiving stock from FRIO UK in Wolfscastle, packaging orders and distributing the stock to seven Western Europe countries. There are three employees, Mr Van der Speol, his wife

and adult daughter who all live at Castle Villa.”

Wolfscastle-based FRIO produces the world’s first patented insulin cooling wallet which keeps insulin and other temperature-sensitive medicines cool and safe.

The supporting statement said the Castle Villa Farm business has now outgrown the site and scope for increasing the building is unviable, and all other buildings at the farm used for agricultural purposes.

It added: “In terms of a functional need for the business to be located at this site, the applicant still farms over 135 acres surrounding the site and 300 sheep. He could be needed at any

given moment to tend to these sheep, especially during lambing season. Therefore, having the site just a sevenminute walk away is vital in ensuring the agricultural use is not lost at Castle Villa.

“Additionally, the products distributed from the site are medical products and therefore, efficiency of getting these products away to purchasers is vital. Losing hours each week commuting would drastically reduce the efficiency of the business and could result in a downturn of business.”

An officer report recommending refusal said a previous retrospective application for a steel-framed storage and distribution building was refused, with a later appeal dismissed, a later application conditionally allowing the building for an agricultural use.

It also said an appeal had been lodged with Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) in early 2024 after an enforcement notice was served, adding an inspector later confirming the only ground upheld was the period for compliance with the notice was too short.

The scheme was refused by county planners on the grounds the development “does not derive its inputs from the land, it is not therefore an enterprise for which a countryside location is essential”.

It added: “In addition, robust evidence has not been provided to demonstrate that the type of activity being undertaken could not be accommodated, or would not be viable, within a nearby settlement or an allocated employment site.

“The development also fails to demonstrate that the scheme operates as a farm diversification. Therefore, it has not been demonstrated that the development is in an appropriate location.”

Welsh businesses see AI as key driver of local growth

according to new figures from Lloyds Bank.

More than three in five firms (63%) say that greater AI adoption will be

a key contributor to local economic performance in the years ahead.

The data, published in Lloyds’ longrunning Business Barometer, shows that 61% of companies in Wales are already using AI tools—and the impact has been largely positive. Of those using the technology, 81% say it has boosted productivity, while 80% report increased profitability.

Companies are primarily using AI to improve efficiency (71%) and to analyse data for better decision-making (36%).

Looking ahead, nearly a quarter (24%) of Welsh businesses plan to increase their AI investment in the next 12 months. More than one in five (22%) also expect to create new roles focused specifically on AI development and implementation.

When asked about their motivations for future investment, 39% of firms said they hoped AI would help expand their customer base, while 36% cited the

potential for further productivity gains.

However, businesses also highlighted the need for better understanding of the technology’s benefits (41%) and growing competitive pressure (18%) as factors influencing their investment decisions.

The Lloyds Business Barometer surveys 1,200 businesses each month and has been tracking economic sentiment since 2002.

Samantha Noble, area director for Wales at Lloyds Bank, said: “Welsh businesses identify AI as an avenue for local growth, which perhaps reflects their own success with it – the overwhelming majority of firms already using the technology have seen higher productivity and profitability.

“Sharing knowledge and experience will be critical to helping more firms start applying it, and ultimately ensuring the full potential of the technology is realised.”

ThCalls for ‘Owain’s law’ to aid brain tumour treatment

seNeDD Members called for Owain’s law, in memory of a young father, to ensure a gold-standard approach to preserving human tissue for other cancer patients in future.

Hefin David led a debate on a cross-party motion on July 2 calling for a law named after his Caerphilly constituent Owain James, who sadly died last year.

He said: “Owain was only 34 years old when he was diagnosed with a 14cm, malignant, gradefour brain tumour in his right frontal lobe. His neurosurgeon said it was one of the biggest tumours she’d ever come across in her professional career.

“It was an absolutely devastating blow to Owain, his wife Ellie, who is in the public gallery today, and his daughter Amelia, who at the time was only 18 months old. Until then, Owain had always been a fit and healthy young man.”

Dr David said the family turned to private treatment and found a personalised vaccine that used a patient’s tumour tissue to educate the immune system to recognise cancerous cells.

He told the Senedd: “The problem here, however, was that Owain needed fresh frozen tumour tissue to develop a sufficient dose of the vaccine.

Owain had had 7cm of tissue surgically removed but, unfortunately, only 1cm of this was fresh frozen and could be used.”

The Caerphilly Senedd Member explained Owain only had three doses of vaccine when it should have been more like 30 doses, but he initially made a remarkable recovery.

“Unfortunately, metastasis caused his tumour to recur elsewhere,” he said. “This time, the tumour was too aggressive and Owain sadly passed away in June 2024.

“Ellie, 35 years of age, now lives with the regret that they were only able to develop and obtain enough doses for those three vaccines.

“Had there been more, we feel that Owain would still be alive today.”

Dr David said fresh frozen tissue is regarded as the gold-standard approach and can be used for vaccines, therapies, research and genome sequencing.

He explained: “This kind of use, though, can only be done when the tumour is fresh frozen,

which it wasn’t in Owain’s case. Owain’s law seeks to address this. It seeks to make this the default process for storing surgically removed tissue in Wales.”

Plaid Cymru’s Peredur Owen Griffiths, who represents South Wales East, said: “My mother also died from a brain tumour, so it’s an issue that is deeply personal for me.

“Brain tumours remain the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, yet they receive just one per cent of national cancer research funding.

“Families like mine and Owain’s are let down not only by research but also by how precious tumour tissue is managed. Owain’s law will enshrine a vital principle that patients and families must be fully informed and able to consent.”

Mr Owen Griffiths added: “This is more than a technical protocol. This is a matter of dignity, respect and hope for families facing devastating diagnoses.”

The Conservatives’ Altaf Hussain, a former surgeon, supported Owain’s law but emphasised the importance of accommodations for religious preferences.

Mabon ap Gwynfor, Plaid Cymru’s shadow health

secretary, expressed concerns about long waits before receiving a diagnosis and a lack of diagnostic machines such as scanners.

Mr ap Gwynfor told the Senedd: “Even after receiving a diagnosis, we have a lack of specialist treatment centres –with far too many of our patients having to travel very long distances at times of weakness to receive their treatment.”

Backing Owain’s law, he said: “This proposal does reflect two core principles at the heart of our NHS. The first is that the NHS belongs to the public…. Second, it’s the voice of the patient, their concerns, their views, that should be at the heart of every decision made.”

Jeremy Miles, for the Welsh Government, stressed the need to proceed with care and warned a legal requirement to freeze all brain tumour tissue risks unintended consequences.

Wales’ health secretary said: “Clinical teams already use their expert judgment to balance diagnostic needs with the potential for research and novel therapies.

“Overriding that clinical discretion through legislation could compromise timely diagnosis or create conflict where tissue volume is limited, which is why the government does not believe that the case is made for legislation.”

While the non-binding motion was agreed unanimously, Owain’s law is unlikely to proceed without Welsh ministers’ full support. But Dr David argued the UK and other countries will eventually introduce such a law as the availability of tissue becomes key to treatment.

Closing the debate, he said: “Let’s remember Owain for everything he’s done today. Even in his passing, he’s contributed to the debate on keeping patients alive for longer.”

Chris Haines

ICNN Senedd reporter

Cancer patients’ voices must be heard, says local MS

CANCeR patients and their families gathered at the senedd this week to share their priorities with politicians and healthcare professionals, as part of a special event organised by tenovus Cancer Care.

Local Senedd Member Paul Davies MS joined colleagues from across Wales to meet patients, clinicians and supporters during the charity’s annual Summer Tea Party, which this year focused on the top five issues cancer patients say matter most to them.

The event brought together members of the All-Wales Cancer Community –a unique initiative set up by Tenovus Cancer Care to give a national platform to people who have been affected by cancer, whether through personal diagnosis or supporting a loved one.

Around 200 individuals from across Wales now form part of the community, contributing lived experience to help inform service delivery, research priorities, and policymaking.

Guests were welcomed by a moving performance from the Swansea branch of the Tenovus ‘Sing with Us’ choir, comprised entirely of people whose lives have been touched by cancer. The event also featured personal testimonies from members of the AllWales Cancer Community, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges in cancer care.

Mr Davies said: “It was a privilege to join Tenovus Cancer Care and hear directly from those whose lives have been impacted by cancer. The

voices of patients are so important in shaping policy and understanding the challenges that many people living with cancer face.

Cancer Care and the

and, as someone living with cancer myself, I’m proud to support their work.”

Senedd rejects calls to declare health emergency

tHe seNeDD narrowly rejected calls to declare a health emergency as the Conservatives warned NHs Wales is in the worst state it has ever been.

James Evans pointed out that nearly one in five people are waiting for treatment, with more than 250,000 people waiting more than nine months for care.

Leading a Tory debate on July 2, the shadow health secretary told the Senedd more than 100,000 people in Wales wait more than 12 hours in A&E each month.

Mr Evans said: “While they wait, ambulances queue outside, unable to offload patients, tying up paramedics who should be on the road saving lives. The ambulance service has not hit its target for eight-minute response times for life-threatening calls for four years straight.”

He warned GP services are overwhelmed, NHS dentistry is collapsing and mental health services are also in crisis. “If that’s not an emergency, I do not know what is,” he said.

Mabon ap Gwynfor, Plaid Cymru’s shadow health secretary, supported the Tory motion, pointing out that his party made calls to declare a health emergency in February 2024.

He said since then: “Waiting lists have broken records another nine times, and every one of the seven regional health boards has stayed in special measures of one kind or another.”

Describing Labour’s record over the past 26 years as unacceptable, Mr ap Gwynfor accused ministers of changing targets on a whim and refusing to admit failure.

The Conservatives’ Natasha Asghar criticised “shameful” treatment times in Wales. She said: “If anything, things continue to go from bad to worse under Labour’s watch and, perhaps more worryingly, failure… to turn things around seems to end in promotion.

“Mark Drakeford, Vaughan Gething and Eluned Morgan all presided over the health brief, failed to deliver successful results and ended up being First Minister.”

Her colleague Gareth Davies, who worked in the north Wales NHS for a decade, told the Senedd: “We just cannot go on like this. The Welsh Government has declared a nature and climate emergency; we now need to declare a health emergency in Wales.

“Unlike the trendy nature and climate emergencies championed by the establishment, this crisis lacks glamour but demands urgent action and means more preventable deaths, prolonged suffering and eroded trust in the NHS….

“Declaring a health emergency is an honest admission that the system is failing and that extraordinary measures

are needed.”

Labour’s Carolyn Thomas told the Senedd the NHS has often been ranked among the best health care systems in the developed world. “We must value it,” she said.

Pointing to the impact of the pandemic on waiting lists and Tory austerity, which “tore at the fabric of society”, the former councillor said: “I refuse to talk down our wonderful NHS.”

Jeremy Miles accused the opposition of only seeing the worst in the health service and indulging in their “favourite sport” of political football, “kicking the NHS from pillar to post”.

Hitting back at his opposite number, the health secretary said: “I heard the Conservative health spokesman say… ‘if that’s not an emergency, I don’t know what is’.

“Let me tell him what a health emergency is – it’s Covid, it’s mpox, it’s war, it’s terrorism.

“And the public will look at this debate and see that in it – shamefully, on a matter of such importance –it’s driven by a slogan and not by substance.”

Senedd Members voted 26-24 against the Tory motion before agreeing the Welsh Government’s amended version by the same margin.

“Tenovus

AllWales Cancer Community have worked hard to promote patients’ voices

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

TPembrokeshire council ends year with £2m underspend

PeMBROkesHIRe County Council ended the last financial year underspending by £2m, in part due to an extra £1.2m raised through second homes tax, despite a dire forecast it was to overspend by £1.4m, senior councillors heard.

At the July 7 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members heard the council’s approved revenue net expenditure budget for 2024-25 was £303.5m, set against a backdrop of increased level of demand, complexity and cost of packages within its School ALN provision, Children’s Services, Adult Services and Homelessness, with material overspends within Social Care & Housing totalling £6.5m, offset by underspends in other service areas.

At the end of the financial year, the council’s net expenditure for 2024-25 was £301.5m, against a prediction during the third quarter of a £1.4m overspend, a report for members by Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance Efficiencies Cllr Alistair Cameron said.

That £3.4m difference was due to a number of factors, members heard, including £1.8m of additional revenue funding and £0.7m additional capital funding from Welsh Government for the 2024-25 financial year received this March.

The report for members added: “A recruitment freeze was implemented following Q1 reporting, with recruitment only to essential positions. The recruitment market remains challenging, with many services struggling to recruit suitably qualified and skilled staff. Whilst this has resulted in a reduction in budgetary pressures of circa £2.4m, it will impact the ability of Pembrokeshire County Council to deliver its services.”

The council’s budget has also been bolstered by an underspend of £4.3m in Capital Financing Costs and Investment Income, along with “a moratorium on all nonessential expenditure” put in place during the first quarter of the year, along with early preparation for, and progression of the 2025-26 budget savings resulting in

some additional savings being realised in 2024-25.

It also said the second homes council tax premium had netted an unexpected extra £1.2m for the council, with properties moving from NonDomestic Rates and qualifying for Second Home Council Tax premium as a result of not meeting the required 182-day occupancy threshold.

It warned: “There is a risk that a number of these customers may lodge a successful appeal with the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) and be moved back to NDR, requiring a repayment of the counciltax paid.

“The VOA have advised they currently have a 6-12-month backlog for appeals. It would be prudent for the £1.2m surplus to be held in reserve for likely refunds following VOA determination, and this is recommended.”

On schools, members heard that while the overall position had improved since the previous quarter, 13 schools remained in deficit balances.

Cllr Cameron warned the underspend “must not be used to mask the financial

challenges in the medium-term financial plan”.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “It’s easy to look at social media and think things are collapsing around us; we have services that are seriously stretched, and we continue to deliver.”

After praising the work of council staff, Cllr Sinnett said: “I’m asking people for patience and some dialogue about what we are and what we are able to do; it’s tough out there for members and staff.”

Leader Cllr Jon Harvey said there was “quite alarming” misinformation on social media about efforts made, adding: “We’ve cut to the bone, and beyond, for most departments.”

Members agreed to note the report and the £2.014m budget underspend went to the Initiative Fund to provide resources for the council to invest in improvement and prevention projects for future cost avoidance / budget saving opportunities.

Members also agreed the £1.228m additional second homes council tax raised be held against any appeals.

Eluned Morgan responds to Senedd Standards Committee report

seNeDD Member for Mid and West Wales, eluned Morgan, has responded to a recent report by the senedd standards Committee concerning a declaration of interest involving trade union support.

The Committee’s report followed an investigation by the Standards Commissioner, who concluded that although Baroness Morgan had formally declared her membership of Unite the Union in writing—as required by the rules—she had not repeated the declaration orally during a Senedd debate.

The matter relates to a contribution made by Unite to a past Labour Party reselection campaign. Morgan confirmed that the support had been properly registered and made publicly available in the official record at the time.

Acknowledging the omission, Baroness Morgan said that in the heat of the moment she should have verbally declared the interest but welcomed the Commissioner’s finding that her comments in the debate were only “passing” in nature. The Commissioner also concluded there was “nothing to suggest that the Member’s registered interests had any influence on her contribution to the proceedings.”

Speaking after the report was published, Eluned Morgan MS said: “I’m grateful that the Commissioner recognised my written declaration was

publicly available and that there was nothing to suggest my contribution was influenced in any way. I also welcome

the Committee’s finding that this was an inadvertent breach – not intentional –and that no further action is necessary.”

Tourism tax to pass final Senedd hurdle as Pembrokeshire opts out

PeMBROkesHIRe COuNtY

COUNCIL has confirmed it will not implement the controversial tourism tax, despite a final vote on the enabling legislation due to take place in the senedd on tuesday (July 8).

The Stage 4 vote on the Visitor

Accommodation (Register and Levy) (Wales) Bill is expected to pass with Labour and Plaid Cymru support. It would give local authorities across Wales the power to charge a nightly levy on overnight stays—set at £1.30 per adult in hotels, with an 80p rate for hostels and campsites. Councils would

also have the ability to add an unlimited “premium” on top of that charge.

However, Pembrokeshire’s Deputy Leader Cllr Paul Miller has made clear that the council will not be introducing the tax under the current administration, which remains in place until May 2027.

“Our message to local businesses

and the tourism sector is simple: this will not affect you before the next election,” Cllr Miller said. “This gives certainty to a sector still recovering from the pandemic and facing significant pressures.”

Local Senedd Member Paul Davies MS, who leads the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, welcomed the council’s decision but warned it could be reversed by future administrations.

“The Tourism Tax is a deeply damaging policy that will hurt Pembrokeshire’s economy,” Mr Davies said. “I’m pleased the council has ruled it out for now, but we will go further— Welsh Conservatives will scrap the tax entirely before it comes into force.”

Welsh Conservative Shadow Finance Secretary, Sam Rowlands MS, added: “Labour and Plaid’s toxic Tourism Tax, according to the Welsh Government’s own figures, will cost tens of millions and hundreds of jobs every year.”

If passed, the legislation would not mandate councils to implement the tax—it simply enables them to do so from 2027. Critics say it could lead to a patchwork of charges across Wales, with confusion for visitors and added pressure on rural and coastal economies that rely on tourism.

The final vote in the Senedd is due to take place at around 5:20pm on Tuesday.

The Senedd Standards Committee has confirmed that no sanctions will be imposed.

abour Government at Westminster would have liked to have celebrated their first year in Government. however, after 14 years of waiting to be in power, they are probably wondering why they wanted to take over after the mess that the Conservatives left behind. And the Conservatives are probably glad that they lost in 2024 and that they’re not having to sort it out.

Last week saw and another mother of all U turns by Labour, on the Welfare Bill as Labour backbenchers revolted against their own Prime Minister and the media talk of Starmer’s unpopularity and that Reform would form the next Government. They fail to say that a Government with a majority of 165 does not have to go to the country for another 4 years.

The Government’s Welfare Bill threatened to cause immense damage to some of the most vulnerable in our society.

It would have made things harder for unpaid carers, harder for disabled people who rely on support to stay in work, and harder for those whose disabilities mean they may never be able to work.

That’s why the Liberal Democrats voted against the Bill.

Steve Darling MP (below), Liberal Democrats Work and Pensions Spokesperson said:-

“Rushed legislation is poor legislation.

“It should not have taken a major rebellion for the Government to realise that these cuts would cause immense damage to some of the most vulnerable and risk creating a false economy by actually forcing some people out of work.

“To appease their own backbenches, the Government was willing to create a two-tier

W ITH ANDREW LYE

system, with new Personal Independent Payment (PIP) claimants unable to access the same support as those currently receiving it - only scrapping these plans at the final moment.

“PIP allows people to do the simple activities we all take for granted and stay in work. Cutting it will push more people into poverty and out of employment.

“Liberal Democrats will continue to oppose any system where some disabled people are more equal than others.

“It’s clear that the welfare bill is too high, but if the Government was serious about cutting welfare spending it would get serious about fixing health and social care, to tackle chronic ill-health at its root.

“Carers have been ignored by the Government throughout this whole debacle. Their voices must now be heard loud and clear. Ministers must ensure that this review listens carefully to carers’ charities to understand the impact these changes will have, on family carers.

“The scale of this week’s rebellion shows that the Government is just not listening, and not delivering on the change that people are crying out for.

“It is time for the Government to take their fingers out of their ears and realise it is time to change course. They must scrap this flawed legislation, go back to the drawing board, and work cross-party to fairly reduce the need for high welfare spending, by getting more people into work and fixing our broken health and care systems.

“And when it comes to balancing the books, rather than cutting support for disabled people, ministers should be asking the social media giants, the big banks and the big online gambling companies to pay their fair share of tax.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

RAAC crisis prompts campaigners to demand urgent Welsh Government action

A CAMPAIGN group is calling on the Welsh Government to launch a statutory public inquiry, set up a national support fund for homeowners, and create a high-risk property register, amid growing concerns over the safety of buildings constructed using Reinforced Autoclaved aerated Concrete (raaC).

Wilson Chowdhry, chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, has written to First Minister Eluned Morgan and Housing Minister Jane Bryant urging immediate and decisive action. In a detailed open letter dated July 6, he warned that current Welsh Government responses are failing vulnerable homeowners— particularly those in places like the Gower Estate in Hirwaun.

Mr Chowdhry described the existing support—limited local grants and interest-free loans— as “wholly insufficient,” noting that many residents, especially those over the age of 65, are ineligible for help. He said: “Without robust intervention from the Welsh Government, a significant portion of vulnerable residents will be abandoned during what is, for many, the most devastating crisis of their lives.”

CaLL fOr INqUIry INtO systeMIC faILUre

The group is demanding a statutory public inquiry into how RAAC came to be so widely used despite early warnings, and why homebuyers were not informed of the risks. The letter raises concerns over potential conflicts of interest, the continuation of Right to Buy sales for RAAC-affected homes, and the misleading

marketing of Siporex—a commercial name for RAAC— as a safe, durable material.

Mr Chowdhry highlighted what he called a “betrayal of public trust,” comparing the situation to the failures exposed by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. “This is not merely a construction defect—it is a case study in regulatory failure, poor transparency, and betrayal of public trust,” he wrote.

PUsh fOr a hIGh-rIsK PROPeRtY ReGIsteR

In addition to calling for financial and investigative measures, the campaign group has repeated its demand for a High-Risk Property Register in Wales, to help prevent undisclosed sales of dangerous buildings and assist surveyors. Mr Chowdhry pointed to recent progress in Scotland, where ministers are now considering such a register following pressure from campaigners.

“A similar register already exists in Scotland for cladding,” he wrote. “We strongly urge the Welsh Government to mirror this model and expand it to include all high-risk materials, including RAAC.”

reGULatOry refOrM NeeDeD

Mr Chowdhry also criticised the Welsh Government’s resistance to stronger building regulations, including a proposed 50-year guarantee on construction materials. He has submitted a detailed response to the UK Government’s Construction Products Green Paper and urged Welsh ministers to adopt similar reforms. “RAAC was

once considered adequate,” he noted. “This crisis proves that these minimal standards are no safeguard.”

NO fOrMaL deCLaratION Of defeCt

Campaigners remain frustrated that RAAC has not been formally declared defective by UK or devolved governments—despite welldocumented risks, school roof collapses, and largescale demolitions. Many homeowners, particularly those who bought ex-council homes under Right to Buy schemes, now find themselves unable to sell, insure, or repair their properties without help.

The Herald understands that no redress mechanism currently exists for many of those affected in Wales, and that the protections under the Building Safety Act 2022 do not apply to Welsh residents.

CAMPAIGNeRs seek uRGeNt MeetING

Mr Chowdhry said he would welcome the opportunity to meet with ministers to discuss the crisis and repeated his call for the Welsh Government to show “bold leadership, transparency, and compassion.” The UK RAAC Campaign Group is continuing to lobby both the UK and devolved governments, and has already contributed extensively to official consultations.

A copy of Mr Chowdhry’s Green Paper submission and the full open letter has been shared with the First Minister’s office, the Welsh Land Division, and the Housing and Regeneration team in Cardiff Bay.

£815,000 school building replacement backed

seNIOR Pembrokeshire

councillors have backed a £815,000 scheme to replace a deteriorating and obsolete temporary school building.

At the July meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members were asked to approve the provision of a new modular building at Ysgol Brynconin, Llandysilio, at an estimated project value of £815,129, with a total council contribution of £725,129 and an external grant of £90,000.

A report for members stated:

“At the meeting of Cabinet held on February 10, members considered a report in relation to a proposal to provide a modular building to replace an obsolete HORSA cabin situated at the rear of Ysgol Brynconin.

“In response to confirmation from Building Maintenance colleagues that the HORSA cabin has reached the end of its useful life and can no longer be maintained to a reasonable order, a feasibility exercise was undertaken in 2024 with a view to ascertaining the cost

of a replacement. This was based on project completion in September 2025.

“However, given the delay in obtaining approval for funding and the anticipated risks attached to the removal of asbestos from the current building, such a programme cannot be completed before the 2026 autumn term. The total project cost is estimated at £815,129.”

HORSA buildings were originally designed as temporary structures, typically constructed using prefabricated concrete, timber, and steel to facilitate rapid assembly. Although intended for short-term use, many HORSA buildings have remained in operation for decades. Over time, these structures have surpassed their intended lifespan, leading to significant structural issues, such as weakened frames, deteriorating roofs and external facades.

BLUE VIEW

With Paul Davies Ms

rethINK refOrMs BefOre there’s a DeNtIstRY CRIsIs

At the Senedd last week I raised NHS dentistry and called out the Welsh Government for pushing ahead with reforms that are against the wishes of the dental profession. I quoted the British Dental Association and said that the Welsh Government should meaningfully engage with the profession before pushing through reforms which could have a catastrophic effect on the industry.

they would enhance prevention. It’s pretty clear that the profession do not think these reforms are the right way forward.

The report added: “Following a site visit to the school on December 18, and as previously reported to Cabinet, it can be confirmed that the external structure has rapidly declined, with the render board failing and allowing water ingress into the areas of external wall insulation.

“Internally, significant areas of wall surfaces have failed due to the water ingress, with evidence of long-standing, isolated repairs being carried out. There is also evidence of deflection in the roof between the main frames. The brickwork is showing clear signs of deterioration, with large areas of loose masonry at low levels. The substructure is also exhibiting signs of wear and degradation around the external envelope. A full inspection of the roof void was not possible due to the presence of multiple layers of ceiling insulation, which obstructed visual access to the frame.”

Members backed the approval of the works.

Of course, the First Minister disagreed with me – and she even went as far as to say that the Welsh Government had worked with the British Dental Association to design the new contract. The British Dental Association has disputed the First Minister’s claims, showing that when it comes to dental reforms, the First Minister really doesn’t have a clue what’s going on.

And it’s worrying – because what is happening will have a huge impact on the dental industry and on us all, as service users.

The reforms will see everyone put on a central register, which means that your appointment could be with any local practice and it also means that healthy patients with check-ups for those with healthy teeth pushed to every 18 to 24 months. This of course, makes it more difficult for dentists to act on the early signs of any disease.

Now, the British Dental Association has asked its Members for their views on the reforms and the results are startling - only 2% of dentists believe that the changes would support the long-term sustainability of NHS dentistry in Wales. In addition, only 2% feel that these reforms would improve population health and only 5% saying that

Unfortunately, the Welsh Government believe they know better than our dentists and they’re determined to push ahead with their plans – and this could result in more dentists leaving the profession and more problems for patients who need dental care. The reforms are so unpopular that even the local Labour MP has spoken out and said they could make matters worse!

However, nothing has been set in stone and I’ve called on the Welsh Government to stop and think about exactly what’s it’s doing and what the impacts of these reforms could be. At the very least there must be meaningful engagement with the profession who will be expected to take on any changes.

Access to a dentist in Pembrokeshire has long been a problem and these reforms do not fill me with any confidence that things will improve. Patients and the profession deserve better – and their voices must be heard. The Welsh Government cannot just plough ahead with reforms against the will of the workforce that it expects to carry out these changes. It’s unreasonable, unrealistic and unacceptable. Dentistry is a priority of mine and I’ll keep raising this until we get a resolution that works for patients and for dentists too

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

Pic Ture oF The week!

Aberaeron

FOUNDATIONAL ETHICAL TRUTHS

dear sIr,

It is vital that all teenagers in uk schools are taught the foundational ethical truths of our universe—truths revealed through the history of philosophy and affirmed by science and metaphysics, as shown by figures such as Isaac Newton.

Consider these examples of profound moral failure throughout human history:

The burning of dissenters at the stake in the 16th and 17th centuries;

The passing of laws by UK Conservative peers and MPs to legalise black slavery in the 1820s;

The Nazi regime’s systematic murder of 5 million Jews in the 1940s simply for being Jewish;

The brutal murder and hostage-taking of innocents by Hamas, who cynically shield themselves behind children;

The killing of children by Israeli forces, even when their

enemy hides among them— actions that betray a lack of moral learning from history, however justified the desire to eliminate Hamas.

These are just some examples of inhumanity— behaviours more depraved than anything found in the animal kingdom. They stand in direct opposition to the ethical and rational order of the universe revealed through philosophical inquiry.

Today, market-driven capitalism dominates as a purely pragmatic worldview, concerned only with profit—a language many understand, yet one entirely devoid of ethical principles. This narrow focus has replaced the ethical teachings once considered fundamental.

Even if many of us were never taught these truths, history still offers us brutal, undeniable facts that should provoke thought, reflection, and, ultimately, a renewed commitment to ethical educatio n.

Name and address supplied

univerAberaeron

LESSONS IN HISTORY

dear sIr,

History is an academic discipline taught in schools and universities, often intertwined with Geography through the division of our planet into 195 distinct nations—many of which remain adversarial and, in some cases, wilfully dishonest. In several countries, children are taught that dishonesty and hatred are virtues.

It is possible to identify certain recurring cultural patterns— shared systems of belief such as Feudalism, introduced in Britain in 1066. This structure separated humans into four rigid categories: Monarch, Aristocrat, Citizen, and Serf. Despite centuries of supposed progress, Britain still reflects this model today, with 91 hereditary peers and over 900 appointed ones sitting in the House of Lords—a so-called ‘Revising Chamber’— in direct contradiction to democratic principles, alongside

650 elected MPs.

In England, a person could vote for a minority party from age 18 to 98, and still have no meaningful influence on the nation’s direction. Other nations have corrected this imbalance, yet we persist in calling this system a “democracy.” To do so is both dishonest and selfcondemning.

Education, across the world, is the mechanism by which one generation seeks to mould the next—often through rote repetition. True history, however, reveals a deeper pattern and design in the universe—one that stands in opposition to the selfserving interests of corrupt men.

It was only Right-Wing British Conservative peers and MPs, and US Confederates, who voted in the 1820s to reinstate Black slavery. It was only the Nazis in the 1930s who chose the Holocaust—the murder of Jewish children. Apartheid was yet another deliberate policy, entirely at odds with the inherent design of the universe we inhabit.

Can we not learn?

C N Westerman

Rainbow oveR MilfoRd MaRina by nCi wooltaCk Point

death notices

M ALCOLM B ALL

It is with great sadness that the family announce the passing of Malcolm at his home on tuesday 24th June.

Dearly loved and sadly missed by all his family.

The funeral service will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium on Friday 11th. July at 11.30.am. Following the service, there will be refreshments at Pembroke Dock Quins Rugby Club.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu for The Paul Sartori Foundation may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

T ERENCE ‘T ERRy’ A RMSTRONG

teRRY died peacefully at Withybush hospital on thursday 19th June with his wife of 69 years, Nan, at his side.

The funeral will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium on Friday 18th. July at 1.00.pm.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu for The MS South West Therapy Centre may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements. (Or directly to the Centre; 40-52-40 00000788)

D R . R AVINDER S INGH G ILL

tHe death occurred peacefully on saturday 21st June of dr. ravinder singh Gill, aged 73 years of addison road, haverfordwest.

Devoted husband of Judith, dearly loved father to Thomas, Daniel & Amy and an adored grandfather of Indeera, Maya, & Ellis.

The funeral service will take place on Friday 18th July at 11am at Albany Church, Haverfordwest followed by a strictly private interment.

All enquires to Tom Newing & Son Ltd, Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

P ETER J OHN G RIFFITHS

PeaCefULLy at Withybush hospital on 28th June, Peter John Griffiths of harbour village, Goodwick aged 88 years.

Loving husband of the late Annette, father of Amanda and Melanie, cherished grandfather of Tom, Kathryn, Owen and Sean, doting great-grandfather of James, Kipp, Carys and Alastair, dear brother, uncle and friend.

Private funeral with family flowers only but donations if wished to Fishguard Lifeboat Station c/o Paul Jenkins and Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB Tel: 01348 873250

R OSEMARY E LAINE J ENKINS

tHe death occurred peacefully on Wednesday 25th June 2025 on Ward 10 Withybush hospital of Mrs. rosemary elaine Jenkins, aged 92 years of Brewery street, Pembroke Dock.

Rosemary will be sadly missed by her family and many friends.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 15th July 2025 at St. John’s Church, Pembroke Dock at 3:00pm followed by interment at Llanion cemetery, Pembroke Dock.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for Tŷ Hafan c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Nartberth SA67 8QH or via www.ecthomasandson.co.uk

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY

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

UEFA WOmEN’S EURO 2025

Brave Cymru fall to ruthless France as Euro 2025 hopes all but fade

Cymru’s e uro 2025 journey teeters on the brink after a spirited but ultimately punishing 4-1 defeat to f rance in s t Gallen. a gainst a side on a nine-game winning streak and boasting world-class pedigree, r hian Wilkinson’s side showed flashes of belief, bravery, and brilliance—but the gulf in clinical quality told.

France struck early, capitalising on a string of corners before Clara Mateo lashed home a precise volley in the seventh minute. Cymru, however, refused to wilt. Their response was swift, fearless, and symbolic of a squad determined to punch above its weight. Jess Fishlock, a titan of the Cymraeg game, delivered the equaliser after Ceri Holland broke France’s high line and squared the ball to her midfield partner. Initially chalked off, the goal was rightly reinstated following a VAR review— vindication and a vital lifeline.

Galvanised, Cymru played with composure and intent. In a first half rich with intensity, they took the game to France, showing purpose in possession and steel on the counter. This was no passive underdog performance. But, as was the case against the Netherlands, a moment of rashness at the worst possible time proved costly. Holland, who had earlier set up Fishlock, conceded a penalty on the cusp of halftime with a clumsy challenge on Mateo. Kadidiatou Diani stepped up, and though goalkeeper Safia Middleton-Patel nearly saved it, the ball squirmed agonisingly over the line.

t he MOM e N t UM sh I fted.

The third goal was a hammer blow—and a harsh lesson. Middleton-Patel, bold in Wilkinson’s selection for her just fifth senior cap, was caught in possession as Mateo pounced and teed up Amel Majri, who fired past the retreating defence. For all her earlier heroics—including a fine early save from Mateo and a composed one-on-one tackle on Manchester United teammate Melvine Malard—this moment will sting. Yet few could question the courage it took to trust such a young talent on this stage.

France added a fourth just after the hour, Grace Geyoro capitalising as MiddletonPatel misread Diani’s cross. The scoreline, while emphatic, didn’t quite reflect the effort and energy Cymru poured into the match.

This result leaves Cymru clinging to the slimmest of hopes: they must beat reigning champions England by at least four goals, while also hoping France dispatch the Netherlands. It’s the stuff of dreams—and miracles.

uNDeRDOGs IN A lION’s DeN

The brutal reality for Cymru was always the draw itself. Placed in a ‘Group of Death’ alongside three European powerhouses, progression was always going to demand near-perfection. But even within adversity, there are glimmers of a side growing into itself.

Prior to this tournament, Cymru had never beaten a top-10 ranked side. Only four draws since 2003 against elite opposition—three of those within the past 18 months—tell the story of a team on

the rise but still seeking its breakthrough moment.

Against the Netherlands, Cymru barely had time to settle before they were overwhelmed. But here, against a formidable French outfit, they stood tall, unbowed. Fishlock’s equaliser wasn’t just a goal—it was a moment of history. Nineteen years on from her debut, it was fitting that the nation’s most decorated player should score Cymru’s first ever goal at a major tournament. A six-time league champion across six different countries, Fishlock etched her name once more into Cymraeg footballing folklore.

Her late substitution on 86 minutes, replaced by Sophie Ingle—making her own triumphant return after over a year sidelined by an ACL injury—was a moment of quiet poignancy. Two veterans, two warriors, still giving everything for the badge.

lOOkING AHeAD

The final round of Group D fixtures looms. Cymru remain in St Gallen to face England on Sunday 13 July (20:00 BST), knowing the odds are stacked firmly against them. But whatever the result, Wilkinson’s team has shown resolve, character, and an unmistakable spirit that will serve them well beyond this tournament.

France, now assured of qualification with a point against the Netherlands in Basel, march on. For Cymru, the campaign may not continue past Sunday—but moments like Fishlock’s goal will echo long after the final whistle.

Veteran Jess Fishlock scored Cymru’s first ever goal at an international tournament

Crymych Football Club launches public meeting to secure new pitch

CryMyCh football Club is calling on local residents to attend a public meeting this thursday (July 10) at ysgol Bro Preseli, where they will provide an update on their ambitious plans to raise £90,000 for a brand-new football pitch in the village.

The meeting, which begins at 7:00pm, is open to anyone interested in supporting grassroots football in the Crymych area. The club, known in Welsh as Clwb Pêl-droed Crymych, has seen significant growth since it was founded in 2019, and is now home to two senior men’s teams, a newly established women’s team, and a junior section boasting more than 80 young players.

The club is seeking to purchase land near its current clubhouse— formerly the Crymych Arms pub— which it successfully acquired in 2023 after the premises had sat empty for two years. The pub has since been transformed into a thriving community hub and clubhouse.

The new pitch project has received support from the Football Association of Wales and PLANED, a community development charity that assists with property ownership for local benefit.

To help reach the £90,000 target, the club is offering a unique loan scheme. Individuals can lend £1,000 over a three-year period at a 4% annual interest rate. The scheme also qualifies for 30% tax relief through

the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS), making it an attractive option for those wishing to support the club while earning a competitive return.

Club Chairman Gary Phillips said:

“This is an incredible opportunity for the community to come together and support a project that will benefit generations to come. Our junior section has grown exponentially, and

having our own pitch will allow us to nurture local talent and provide an additional focal point for the village. We’re offering a win-win situation – a great return for investors and a lasting legacy for the Crymych area.”

Those unable to attend the meeting can find full details of the lending scheme at www.cpdcrymych.cymru, or collect an application form from the

Crymych Arms or Siop Sian.

If successful, the new pitch will not only provide a permanent home for the club but also offer a wider community facility, hosting events and reinforcing local pride.

For more information, email crymychfc@gmail.com or visit the club website.

Ceredigion applauded for hosting cycling championships

CeReDIGION has been praised for hosting a memorable National Cycling Championships in the county in collaboration with British Cycling, Welsh Government and Beicio Cymru.

Competitors were warmly welcomed by supporters from Ceredigion and further afield whilst they competed in the various races in Aberaeron and Aberystwyth.

Ceredigion County Council thanked the organisers, sponsors, volunteers and emergency services for their hard work in pulling off this major event successfully and safely.

Council leader, Councillor Bryan Davies said: “It was a pleasure to host the British Cycling Championships in Ceredigion. It places our county on the big stage as a special location to host prestigious first class events like this.

Millie Couzens, gold medallist in

the Under-23 Women’s Time Trial in Aberaeron and gold medallist in the Elite and Under-23 women’s Lloyds National Road Race in Aberystwyth (Image: SWpix)

“Professional cyclists came from near and far to brave the roads of Ceredigion which offered the perfect balance between being challenging but also extremely enjoyable. It was great to see so many people visiting our county enjoying all the things our local businesses have to offer. Congratulations to everyone who was part of the event.”

The Beicio Cymru Championship, held on Saturday, included races for Ceredigion school pupils of various ages, organised by Beicio Cymru, Ystwyth Cycling and Ceredigion Actif.

Jonathan Day, British Cycling Events managing director, said: “It has been a phenomenal Lloyds National

Road Championships with three days of incredible racing in Ceredigion.

“Aberaeron and Aberystwyth have been great hosts of this prestigious event, laying on fantastic courses for our riders which has led to some entertaining races.

“More than anything, events like this really show the legacy and impact of hosting championships in these areas. We have seen lots of young people out on the courses cheering on the riders, seeing the country’s best riders up close.

“The support has been brilliant, so we would like to extend out thanks to the Welsh Government, Ceredigion Council and all our stakeholders who assisted in successfully delivering the Championships.”

Welsh Government Minister with responsibility for sport, Jack Sargeant, said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome

the Lloyds National Road Championships to Wales. Congratulations to Ceredigion on hosting such a prestigious event so well.

“The Welsh success in the elite women’s time trial with Zoe Backstedt’s magnificent victory, combined with the participation of over 200 youngsters in associated community events, will have helped inspire a new audience to enjoy cycling.

“This championship has delivered an exciting opportunity to see the next generation of British and Welsh talent in action, as we continue in our preparations to host a stage of the Tour de France in 2027.

“Events like this showcase Wales as a world-class destination for cycling and demonstrate the positive impact that sport can have on our communities.”

Pupils’ multi-sports event hits the target

MOre than 60 pupils have enjoyed trying out a range of different sports in a special sport Pembrokeshire event held last month

The event was held at Ysgol Glannau Gwaun with 65 pupils from Years, 4,5 and 6 and the ALN unit taking part.

The sessions were run by local community clubs and Young Ambassadors from Ysgol Bro Gwaun with pupils getting to enjoy rugby, cricket, hockey, archery and golf.

Sharon Osborne from Ysgol Glannau Gwaun, said: “Thanks to Sport Pembrokeshire for organising a fantastic morning of activities for our pupils. They all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.”

Dan Bellis of Sport Pembrokeshire, added: “A big thanks to Fishguard & Goodwick Hockey Club, Fishguard and Goodwick Rugby Club and the Young Ambassadors from Ysgol Bro Gwaun for putting on a fabulous morning of activities in glorious sunshine!

“A big well done to all the pupils from Ysgol Glannau Gwaun for their effort and enthusiasm throughout the morning.”

cricket

Cresselly stay top as Lawrenny skittle Llangwm

DOMINANt wins across the divisions as league tables begin to take shape

CRESSELLY retained their place at the top of Division 1 of the Thomas Carroll Pembroke County Cricket League with an emphatic eight-wicket win over Burton on Saturday (July 5).

Charlie Arthur led the chase with an unbeaten 65, while Simon Cole ripped through Burton’s batting with 4-8. The reply was brisk, with Cresselly reaching the target in under 18 overs.

Lawrenny produced a bowling masterclass to dismiss Llangwm for just 39. Rob Williams (6-12) and Jamie

Lewis (4-23) shared the wickets before Lawrenny cruised to a 10-wicket win.

Herbrandston beat Neyland by 90 runs thanks to a strong showing with bat and ball. Charlie Malloy scored 68 and Jack Nicholas added 51 before Nathan Banner claimed 3-12.

Saundersfoot beat Haverfordwest by 81 runs with Tom Mansbridge taking 4-14 and Nick Cope chipping in with 4-28.

Carew chased down 134 to beat Whitland by three wickets. Brian Hall scored 33, while James Hinchcliffe finished on 28 not out and took 2-36 with the ball.

Thomas carroll Pembrokeshire league Table

RESULTS:

05/07/2025

Burton (105) lost to Cresselly (110-2) by 8 wkts

Carew (137-7) beat Whitland (134) by 3 wkts

Haverfordwest (67) lost to Saundersfoot (148-9) by 81 runs

Herbrandston (198) beat Neyland (108) by 90 runs

Lawrenny (41-0) beat Llangwm (39) by 10 wkts

Cresselly II (129) lost to Johnston (130-0) by 10 wkts

Hook (186-3) beat Carew II (183-5) by 7 wkts

Llanrhian (141) lost to Llechryd (142-3) by 7 wkts

Narberth (121) lost to St Ishmaels (151-9) by 30 runs

Pembroke (175-4) beat Burton II (173-9) by 6 wkts

Fishguard (67-2) beat Laugharne (61) by 8 wkts

Hundleton (68) lost to Lamphey (72-1) by 9 wkts

Kilgetty (198-4) beat Haverfordwest II (193-7) by 5 runs

Neyland II (133-1) beat Hook II (132) by 9 wkts

Stackpole (90) lost to Pembroke Dock (91-0) by 10 wkts

Carew III (131) lost to Pembroke II (153-8) by 22 runs

Haverfordwest III (78) lost to Crymych (211-5) by 133 runs

Llangwm II (166-2) beat Llanrhian II (163-6) by 8 wkts

Saundersfoot II (145-9) lost to Lawrenny II (188-6) by 43 runs

St Ishmaels II (164-7) beat Narberth II (83) by 81 runs

Llechryd II (71-1) beat Whitland II (69-8) by 9 wkts

Neyland III (69) lost to Hundleton II (70-2) by 8 wkts

Pembroke Dock II (102) lost to Herbrandston II (234-7) by 132 runs

H’west-Cresselly (46) lost to Whitland III (73) by 27 runs

Lamphey II (223) beat Pembroke III (118) by 105 runs

Llechryd III (74-3) beat Kilgetty II (73) by 7 wkts

FIXTURES: 12/07/2025

Cresselly v Haverfordwest

Herbrandston v Lawrenny

Llangwm v Burton

Neyland v Whitland

Saundersfoot v Carew

Burton II v Narberth

Carew II v St Ishmaels

Hook v Cresselly II

Johnston v Llanrhian

Llechryd v Pembroke

Haverfordwest II v Hundleton

Lamphey v Fishguard

Laugharne v Neyland II

Pembroke Dock v Hook II

Stackpole v Kilgetty

Lawrenny II v Llangwm II

Llanrhian II v Haverfordwest III

Narberth II v Crymych

Pembroke II v Saundersfoot II

St Ishmaels II v Carew III

Cresselly III v Neyland III

Haverfordwest IV v Herbrandston II

Hundleton II v Pembroke Dock II

Whitland II v Llechryd II

Llechryd III v Kilgetty II

Pembroke III v Lamphey II

Whitland III v H’west-Cresselly

Brave Cymru fall to ruthless France as Euro 2025 hopes all but fade • P68