The Pembrokeshire Herald 12/06/2026

FRIDAY June 12th 2026 • ISSUE 667 • ONLY £1.50

Founders Day success

Despite difficult weather, rising costs, and significantly increased security P16

Forgotten wartime archive

The collection contains original military and wartime papers P12

Childcare row erupts

Opposition parties clash over flagship pledge P21

Haverfordwest pair accused in £80,000 rogue trading case Trading Standards fears over vulnerable victims as major Crown Court case looms Page 9

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Families condemn failed appeal by paddleboard boss THE FAMILIES of victims of the Haverfordwest paddleboarding tragedy have spoken of their anger after the woman jailed over four deaths failed in a bid to challenge her sentence.

Nerys Bethan Lloyd, 41, from Port Talbot, was jailed for 10 years and six months after admitting gross negligence manslaughter following the deaths of Paul O’Dwyer, Andrea Powell, Morgan Rogers and Nicola Wheatley.

The four died after a paddleboarding trip on the Western Cleddau in Haverfordwest went disastrously wrong on October 30, 2021.

Three Court of Appeal judges rejected arguments that Lloyd’s sentence was “manifestly excessive”.

The failed appeal has now prompted fresh criticism from grieving families, who say they have been forced to relive the tragedy again.

Morgan Rogers’ mother, Teresa Hall, said Lloyd should “leave the families in peace”, adding that those who lost loved ones were serving “life sentences” of their own.

Nicola Wheatley’s husband, Darren, said he broke down when the appeal was rejected, describing the decision as a moment of relief after another agonising legal hearing.

The tragedy happened during a commercial paddleboarding tour from Haverfordwest towards Burton Ferry.

The group encountered the town weir in dangerous river conditions, with several participants becoming trapped in the powerful hydraulic towback.

A Marine Accident Investigation Branch report later found the deaths were “tragic and avoidable”,

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highlighting failures in planning, risk assessment, safety briefings, equipment and awareness of the danger posed by the weir.

At sentencing, the court heard Lloyd had failed to produce a written risk assessment for the trip and that the group had not been properly warned about the weir.

The case remains one of Pembrokeshire’s most devastating modern tragedies, with the deaths sending shockwaves through Haverfordwest and across Wales.

Lloyd remains in custody following the failed appeal bid.

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Child killer stabbed to death in prison cell, murder trial hears KYLE BEVAN, the man jailed for murdering two-year-old Lola James in Haverfordwest, was stabbed 25 times during an attack in his prison cell, a murder trial has heard.

Bevan, 33, was serving a life sentence at HMP Wakefield after being convicted of killing his partner’s daughter, Lola, whose death shocked Pembrokeshire and led to major questions about child protection failings.

Leeds Crown Court heard that Bevan was attacked on November 5 last year by three fellow prisoners, Lee Newell, 57, Mark Fellows, 45, and David Taylor, 63.

All three deny murder.

‘Left to bleed to death’

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Prosecutor Jason Pitter KC told the jury the attack lasted four minutes and 39 seconds after Bevan entered his cell on A Wing.

He said the defendants followed him in “with real purpose” before allegedly carrying out a joint attack intended to kill him.

The court heard Bevan suffered at least 30 injuries, including 25 stab wounds from a sharp weapon. His heart and major blood vessels were damaged.

Mr Pitter said Bevan was then placed in bed “as if asleep” and left to bleed to death. His body was not discovered by prison staff until roll call the following morning.

Weapons found

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Jurors were told a makeshift weapon, described as a folded piece of metal, was later found hidden behind a television and had Bevan’s blood on it.

Other weapons were allegedly found hidden in a container of chilli sauce in Taylor’s cell.

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The court also heard that Taylor was allegedly heard saying: “Nice working with you and the Ice Man,” with “Ice Man” said to be a nickname for Fellows.

Pembrokeshire case Bevan was jailed in 2023 for the

murder of Lola James, who died after suffering catastrophic head injuries at her home in Haverfordwest.

Her mother, Sinead James, was also jailed for causing or allowing her death.

The case caused widespread anger in Pembrokeshire and led to serious questions about how Lola had been left in danger despite concerns being known before her death.

The trial continues.

Milford Haven man admits harassment and assault A MILFORD HAVEN man has admitted harassment and assault charges.

Wayne Whatling, aged 40, of Howarth Close, Milford Haven, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Friday (Jun 5).

The court heard that between September 1 and September 13, 2025, at Milford Haven, Whatling pursued a course of conduct which amounted to harassment of Carol Whatling.

The charge stated that he regularly

asked her for money and that she was in fear of repercussions if she did not provide it.

Whatling also admitted assaulting Ben Whatling by beating him at Milford Haven on September 13, 2025.

Magistrates adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report.

He was remanded on conditional bail and must return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, June 11.

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Ombudsman clears Woodham over Imperial Hall complaint

against Cllr Dennison.

In Cllr Dennison’s case, the Standards Committee concluded he had personal and prejudicial interests arising from a combination of factors, including his previous directorship of Imperial Hall Limited, a financial loan to the business during Covid, involvement with the Masonic Hall company, social links with Mr Bridges and prior advice from the Monitoring Officer warning him not to become involved.

The committee found Cllr Dennison had acted as an “advocate and champion” for the application by drafting and signing paperwork to seek committee determination on behalf of local member Cllr Terry Davies.

By contrast, the Ombudsman concluded the evidence in the Woodham matter did not establish either a sufficiently close personal association or a financial or personal interest requiring declaration.

Bridges sought consistency

THE PUBLIC SERVICES OMBUDSMAN FOR WALES has concluded there is “no evidence” that Cllr Guy Woodham breached the Members’ Code of Conduct in relation to the long-running Imperial Hall planning dispute in Milford Haven.

The decision, issued on Wednesday (June 10), brings to an end a complaint made by Imperial Hall director Lee Bridges following the controversial Planning Delegation Panel meeting which considered whether the venue’s retrospective planning application should be referred to Pembrokeshire County Council’s Planning Committee.

The ruling lands less than two weeks after Milford Haven councillor Alan Dennison was suspended for four months by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Standards Committee over his involvement in the same planning matter.

Complaint dismissed The Ombudsman investigated allegations that Cllr Woodham had failed to declare personal and prejudicial interests while acting as Chair of the Planning Delegation Panel meeting on

Suspended: Councillor Alan Dennison

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February 25, 2025.

The complaint also alleged Cllr Woodham had improperly used his position while participating in the panel’s consideration of whether the Imperial Hall application should be referred to councillors for determination.

However, after reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses and viewing the webcast of the meeting, the Ombudsman concluded there was no evidence of wrongdoing.

The decision notice states: “The evidence did not suggest that the Member had a personal or prejudicial interest.”

It added there was no evidence the decision could reasonably be regarded as affecting Cllr Woodham’s wellbeing or financial position, or that of someone with whom he had a close personal association.

The Ombudsman therefore decided there was “no evidence of a breach of the Code.”

Why the complaint was made

The complaint had been made

by Mr Bridges following the Planning Delegation Panel meeting, during which councillors declined a request to refer the Imperial Hall planning application to committee.

Mr Bridges had argued there were potential conflicts involving Cllr Woodham linked to community venues in Milford Haven and alleged competing interests connected to the local events sector.

Those concerns later formed part of wider criticism voiced publicly by both Mr Bridges and Cllr Dennison.

Last week, following the Standards Committee ruling against him, Cllr Dennison claimed Cllr Woodham had chaired the panel “with full awareness of the potential repercussions” for Mr Bridges’ business and alleged competing interests had not been properly declared.

Ombudsman draws distinction The Ombudsman’s findings appear to draw a clear distinction between the Woodham complaint and the circumstances which led to the sanction

Manager of The Imperial Hall: Lee Bridges

Only days before the Ombudsman’s decision, Mr Bridges had written to the Ombudsman questioning whether his complaint concerning Cllr Woodham was being afforded the same level of scrutiny as the Dennison case.

He argued that allegations involving participation in decisionmaking processes should be treated consistently.

In response, the Ombudsman told Mr Bridges that all complaints are assessed under the same two-stage process and determined on their own merits.

The decision notice issued today confirms the Ombudsman has now completed that assessment and found no breach.

Wider fallout continues The Imperial Hall planning dispute has become one of the most politically charged local controversies in Milford Haven in recent years.

The original dispute concerned retrospective engineering works linked to an external dining area at the Hamilton Terrace venue.

Planning officers ultimately refused the application, while a later appeal to Welsh Government inspectors was unsuccessful.

Cllr Dennison has vowed to appeal his four-month suspension, insisting he did nothing wrong and arguing he merely signed paperwork “pp” on behalf of Cllr Terry Davies after being asked to assist.

Speaking after the Standards Committee hearing, he described the process as unfair and politically motivated.

Pembrokeshire County Council and Cllr Guy Woodham have been contacted for comment.

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Man trapped wild goldfinches to sell, court hears

A KILGETTY man deliberately trapped wild goldfinches using a decoy system with the intention of selling them, a court has heard.

When officers from the RSPCA discovered the birds at aviaries in The Glebe, Tenby, Colwyn Robert Probert

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allegedly told them to “shove the birds up your bum” after being informed the animals would be released back into

the wild.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard this week that Probert, 38, of Kingsmoor Common, Kilgetty, had trapped the birds in their natural habitat using decoy birds and wild seed.

Lindi Meyer, prosecuting on behalf of the RSPCA, said: “Thirteen goldfinches had been taken from the wild after the defendant set up traps with decoy birds and wild seed.”

The court heard that when RSPCA officers inspected the birds, many were struggling to adapt to captivity.

Ms Meyer said: “The birds were finding it difficult to adapt to a confined environment, having been captured in the wild. They were clinging to the bars of the cages, they were unsteady on the perches and they had dark coloured legs, which are characteristic of wild birds.”

The prosecutor added that two of the cages were too small, some of the birds had dirty tails and damaged wing feathers, while broken swings were also found inside the aviaries.

“Two of them were underweight and their water was dirty,” she said.

The court heard that after officers informed Probert the birds would be

returned to their natural habitat, he responded: “You can shove them up your bum if you want to.”

A subsequent search of Probert’s property failed to uncover any documentation showing the birds had been obtained legally.

Probert pleaded guilty to intentionally taking goldfinches from the wild, possessing thirteen wild goldfinches contrary to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, attempting to take birds from the wild, and failing to ensure the welfare needs of the birds were met.

“This was clearly a disregard for wildlife and had been pre-planned,” Ms Meyer told the court. “We also believe there was a commercial element involved.”

The court was told Probert had previously been convicted in 2010 for similar offences involving the trapping and keeping of wild birds.

Given the seriousness of the offences, District Judge Mark Layton ordered a full probation report before sentencing.

Probert was granted unconditional bail and will be sentenced at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Jun 30).

Dock man admits breaching sexual harm prevention order A PEMBROKE DOCK man has admitted breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order on two separate occasions.

Jack Thomas, aged 23, of Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jun 8).

Thomas admitted breaching an order made by Swansea Crown Court on June 5, 2023.

The court heard that on March 23, 2026, at Pembroke Dock, Thomas used a profile name on social media which had not been approved by police before its

use.

He also admitted a second breach on April 22, 2026, when he deleted a message from Facebook Messenger.

Both actions were prohibited under the terms of the Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Magistrates adjourned the case for the preparation of an all-options pre-sentence report.

Thomas was granted unconditional bail and must return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday, June 29, at 10:00am.

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Farmers fined in bovine TB scandal face fresh court action TWO PEMBROKESHIRE farmers convicted in a major bovine tuberculosis-related cattle case are due back before the courts this week over unpaid financial penalties.

Henry Hartt, 66, of Ciffig, Whitland, and Edward William Henry Hartt, 48, of Llandewi Velfrey, are both listed to appear at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (June 11).

Court records show both men face proceedings relating to the non-payment of fines of £94,739.64 imposed on March 4, 2024. Separate applications to lodge committal warrants are also listed, relating to unpaid fines of £22,300 and £22,400 respectively.

The pair were among three members of the Hartt family sentenced at Swansea Crown Court in March 2024 following a major prosecution brought by Pembrokeshire County Council involving bovine TB controls.

The court heard that cattle known to have reacted to bovine tuberculosis

Court Reporter

tests were knowingly kept on-farm, while substitute animals were allegedly presented for slaughter instead.

At the time, Henry Hartt, Edward Hartt and Charles Hartt admitted a total of 12 cattle identification offences connected to Longford Farm, Clynderwen.

The case centred on failures to comply with bovine TB restrictions and cattle tracing rules designed to prevent the spread of the disease.

Each defendant was fined £24,000, while confiscation orders and prosecution costs running into hundreds of thousands of pounds were also imposed.

Thursday’s hearing is expected to deal with enforcement proceedings connected to the unpaid financial orders rather than the original criminal offences.

The Herald will be attending court.

Alarm over brown sea around Fishguard cruise ship Residents feared pollution after muddy water appeared around the Oceania Marina, but officials say sediment was churned up by the ship’s propulsion system.

BROWN discolouration seen in the sea around a cruise ship visiting Fishguard sparked concern among residents this week, after some feared it could indicate pollution in the harbour.

The large cruise vessel Oceania Marina arrived in Fishguard on Monday (Jun 8), bringing more than 1,200 passengers and hundreds of crew to Pembrokeshire as part of this summer’s growing cruise season.

But as the ship remained offshore, locals noticed muddy-looking water surrounding the vessel and took to social media to question whether waste had entered the bay.

The Herald understands concerns were raised with Fishguard Harbour, prompting enquiries with the ship’s operators.

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According to an explanation passed to local county councillor Billy Shaw, the discolouration was not pollution but sediment disturbed from the seabed.

Harbour officials were told the ship had been using its propulsion system to hold position in strong winds and currents while tender boats ferried passengers to and from shore.

A statement from the vessel said the “brownish sea” seen around the ship had been caused by propulsion bringing mud to the surface.

The operators also stressed that no waste discharge takes place near land, saying all ship discharges stop before entering UK territorial waters and that the vessel complies with international maritime pollution rules.

The Oceania Marina, operated by Oceania Cruises, was making her first visit to Fishguard. Excursions took

passengers to locations including St Davids and Cardigan, while many visitors spent time in Fishguard itself.

The call marks one of around two

dozen cruise ship visits expected in Fishguard and Goodwick this season, with further vessels scheduled throughout the summer.

Waterston man denies child rape and sexual assault charges A WATERSTON man has appeared before magistrates charged with 13 sexual offences against children, including three allegations of raping a girl under the age of 13.

Chaisee Price, 25, of Waterston, Milford Haven, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this

week.

He faces three charges of raping a girl under 13, eight charges of sexually assaulting girls aged between five and eight, and two charges of intentionally inciting girls under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

The offences are alleged to have

taken place between 2014 and 2019.

Price denied all charges.

Because of the seriousness of the allegations, magistrates declined jurisdiction and the case will now proceed to Swansea Crown Court on July 10.

Price was released on conditional

bail.

The conditions include a daily electronically monitored curfew between 6:00pm and 6:00am, no contact with the prosecution witness, no unsupervised contact with children under 18, and a requirement to surrender his passport to police.

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DVLA insider helped give dodgy cars clean identities in £1.3m fraud

A DVLA worker who secretly altered official vehicle records to make damaged, stolen and cloned cars appear legitimate has been jailed.

Matthew Holloway used his access to DVLA systems to help Swansea car dealers and others hide the true histories of vehicles, Swansea Crown Court heard.

The fraud meant cars which should have carried warning markers could be made to look cleaner, newer or more valuable on paper.

Court Reporter

Holloway, aged 32, of Ffordd y Mynydd, Birchgrove, Swansea, admitted conspiracy to commit fraud alongside Ashley Keith Harris, also known as Keith Wayne Lewis, aged 44, of Tawe Road, Llansamlet, and Joshua John Sawyer, aged 31, of Treharne Road, Morriston.

The offending took place between January 2021 and July 2022.

The court heard Holloway worked

in a trusted DVLA role dealing with specialist registration matters.

Instead of protecting the integrity of the system, he used his position to interfere with records, including log book details, vehicle identification numbers, write-off markers and destruction certificates.

The prosecution said his actions helped conceal previous crashes, remove former keepers, and create false identities for vehicles which had been stolen, cloned or reconstructed.

Some alterations were made for Harris and Sawyer, who were involved in the motor trade in Swansea. Others were carried out for people and organisations elsewhere in the UK. Among the vehicles affected were high-value models including an Audi, a Ferrari, a BMW, a Mercedes-AMG and a Range Rover Sport.

The Range Rover, worth around £65,000, had been stolen before being given false paperwork and sold on to an innocent buyer.

Prosecutors said the tampering increased the value of affected vehicles by around £1.29m.

The court was told Harris gained about £90,000, Sawyer about £75,000, and Holloway was paid £23,400 for making the changes. The DVLA also lost about £27,000 in unpaid fees.

Harris had previous convictions, including drug trafficking and fraud.

Holloway and Sawyer had no previous convictions.

Defence barristers said Holloway was ashamed of what he had done, Sawyer had made a serious error while trying to build a car sales business, and Harris had difficult personal circumstances involving his young daughter’s health.

Judge Huw Rees said the case was organised crime and had damaged trust in a national vehicle registration system relied on by motorists, traders and police.

He said greed lay behind the offending.

Holloway was jailed for five years and three months.

Harris was sentenced to two years and eight months, while Sawyer was jailed for two years and four months.

After the sentencing, Lisa McCarthy, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS Cymru-Wales’ complex casework unit, said the defendants had worked to conceal the real status and history of vehicles.

She said Holloway had abused a trusted DVLA position for financial benefit, putting at risk the accuracy of records used across the UK. A DVLA spokesperson said Holloway was dismissed immediately after the fraud was identified.

The agency said it had since strengthened internal controls and continued to work with police and partner organisations to tackle vehicle fraud.

Woman jailed after Carmarthen shoplifting spree and probation breach A CARMARTHEN woman who carri ed out a string of shop thefts across the town before breaching a suspended sentence order has been jailed for 44 weeks.

Jessica Mudd, aged 33, of Ross Avenue, Carmarthen, was sentenced at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jun 8) after failing without reasonable excuse to comply with a community requirement attached to a suspended sentence order.

The court heard that Mudd failed to attend two appointments at Carmarthen Probation Office on May 6 and May 18, breaching an order imposed by Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on March 12.

As a result, magistrates activated a suspended prison sentence and ordered that Mudd serve a total of 44 weeks in custody.

The sentence followed a lengthy list of offences committed in Carmarthen between September 2025 and February 2026, including repeated thefts from shops across the town centre.

Court records show Mudd stole miscellaneous items worth £44 from Flying Tiger in St Catherine’s Walk on February 13, followed by clothing valued at £85.95 from New Look in the same shopping centre.

On February 20, she stole baby items worth £100 from TK Maxx in Merlin’s Walk Shopping Centre and Pampers nappies worth £28 from B&M Stores in Hall Street.

Two days later, on February 22, Mudd stole cleaning products and a joint of beef worth £85.42 from the Co-op in King Street.

The court also heard that on February 24 she stole lunar boots worth £65 from Coco Blush in Cambrian Way. Earlier offending included the theft of fragrances worth £500 from Boots in September 2025, dog food from Pets at Home, household detergent and food from the Co-op, a scarf from Poundland, and further shop thefts from B&M and other retailers.

As part of the same offending period, Mudd was also convicted of

assaulting David Gareth Watson by beating in Mansel Street, Carmarthen, on February 24, as well as criminal damage after damaging clothing and glasses belonging to the same man.

Magistrates implemented an 18week suspended prison sentence

imposed in March for the theft matters, together with an additional consecutive term linked to another case, resulting in an overall sentence of 44 weeks’ imprisonment.

Mudd was also ordered to pay £60 in court costs.

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Haverfordwest pair accused of £80,000 rogue trading frauds TWO men from a Haverfordwest traveller family have been described in court as “rogue traders” following a series of alleged frauds totalling almost £80,000.

Billy Alfred Gary Lovell, 38, and Timothy Dean Lovell, 36, both of Under the Hills, Merlins Bridge, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week They are accused of offences linked to ground clearance and gardening work in Mathry, Sardis and two addresses in Carmarthenshire.

Prosecuting on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Trading Standards Department, barrister Harry Dickens told the court: “These men have to be described as rogue traders.”

Billy Lovell faces 16 charges, including fraud by false representation, fraud by failing to disclose information, and unfair commercial practices.

The most serious allegation relates to a couple from Sardis. It is alleged that between January 30, 2022, and January 16, 2025, Billy Lovell dishonestly represented that he would complete clearance and gardening works worth £71,631, but

failed to carry out work to that value.

He is also accused of offences involving a gentleman from Penygroes, Carmarthenshire, a woman from Mathry, and a gentleman from Ty Croes, Carmarthenshire.

Timothy Lovell faces ten charges arising from alleged incidents involving a couple who say they were duped.

The allegations include claims that the defendants failed to provide accurate invoices, receipts, written contractual terms, cancellation rights and refund information. Some charges also allege that aggressive commercial practices were used, including harassment, coercion or undue influence.

No pleas were recorded. Because of the seriousness of the allegations, District Judge Mark Layton declined jurisdiction.

The case will now proceed to Swansea Crown Court on June 12.

Both defendants were granted conditional bail. They must not contact prosecution witnesses directly or indirectly, must live and sleep each night at their respective addresses in Under the Hills, Merlins Bridge, and

must not undertake any gardening or landscaping work.

The bail conditions were imposed

to prevent interference with witnesses and further offending.

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Tenby man found with hunting knife at Withybush Hospital A TENBY man who was caught with a hunting knife at Withybush Hospital has been handed a community order.

Sion Williams, aged 50, of Flat 2, St Stephens, The Croft, Tenby, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jun 8) for sentence.

Williams had denied possessing a knife blade or sharply pointed article in a public place, but was found guilty after trial on May 18.

The court heard that on December 13, 2025, Williams had a hunting knife with him at Withybush General Hospital, Fishguard Road, Haverfordwest, without good reason or lawful authority.

Magistrates imposed a community order running until June 7, 2027.

Williams must complete 75 hours of unpaid work and take part in up to

15 days of rehabilitation activity.

He was also ordered to pay

£650 prosecution costs and a £114 surcharge.

The hunting knife was ordered to be forfeited and destroyed.

Man handed 250 hours unpaid work after assaults on two women A PEMBROKE DOCK man who assaulted two women has been handed a community order and banned from contacting one of the victims.

Ryan Brundrett appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jun 8) after admitting two charges of assault by beating.

The court heard that on October 3,

2025, at Pembroke Dock, Brundrett assaulted Ceri Laville and Sonia Duffin.

Magistrates were told Brundrett changed his plea on the day of trial, receiving limited credit for his guilty pleas.

He was sentenced to a community order lasting until June 7, 2027.

As part of the order, Brundrett must complete 250 hours of unpaid work and

up to ten days of rehabilitation activity.

The court also ordered Brundrett to pay £100 compensation to Ceri Laville, along with £325 prosecution costs and a £114 surcharge.

A restraining order was imposed preventing Brundrett from contacting Ceri Laville directly or indirectly until June 7, 2027. He is also banned from entering any property where she lives

and prohibited from posting anything on social media or public forums referring directly or indirectly to her.

No restraining order was made in relation to Lewis Laville, with magistrates ruling this was not necessary or proportionate.

No compensation order was made for Sonia Duffin as the court heard the parties had reconciled.

South Wales Police pauses Islam guidance after political backlash

Claire Coutinho MP SOUTH WALES POLICE has confirmed to The Herald it is pausing controversial guidance relating to the recording of anti-Muslim hostility following criticism from Conservative MP Claire Coutinho.

The force issued the statement after Ms Coutinho, Shadow Minister

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for Equalities, formally referred South Wales Police to the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), claiming the guidance risked creating a “de-facto blasphemy law” around discussion of

Islam.

In a statement to The Pembrokeshire Herald, South Wales Police said: “We are pausing the aligning with this definition in order to consider whether to maintain or amend the adoption, pending guidance from NPCC. The force remains committed to ensuring the

public safety of all of our communities.”

The response appears to indicate the force is reconsidering whether to continue using the definition in question while awaiting guidance from the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC).

Ms Coutinho had accused the force of instructing officers to record comments deemed to go beyond “legitimate” discussion of Islam, arguing that no equivalent standard applied to other faiths.

In a letter to the EHRC chair, she wrote that the policy risked creating “a more restrictive category of speech that applies only in the context of one religion”.

The controversy centres on concerns about how non-crime incidents are recorded and whether lawful speech could be logged by police, potentially affecting public confidence in free expression and equal treatment under the law.

South Wales Police has not said whether the guidance will ultimately be scrapped, amended or reinstated following the review.

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Claire Archibald secures review of Milford Haven train times CLAIRE ARCHIBALD MS has secured a review of train times between Milford Haven and Haverfordwest after raising concerns about rural transport links with Transport for Wales.

The Reform UK Member of the Senedd for Ceredigion Penfro met senior TfW representatives to discuss public transport across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, including the impact poor services can have on workers, families, patients and rural communities.

Ms Archibald said public transport must be treated as a key part of any discussion about rural healthcare, employment and access to services.

During the meeting, she raised wider concerns about healthcare access across west Wales. She said she does not support rural communities losing local health services, but warned that any proposal requiring patients, relatives or carers to travel further must properly consider whether public transport is available and practical.

People travelling between Aberystwyth and south west Wales can currently face journeys of around three hours each way by bus, making it difficult for families visiting loved ones in hospital or attending important appointments.

Ms Archibald said: “Rural communities cannot be treated as an afterthought. If services are moved further away, then the question has to be asked: how are patients, families and carers actually meant to get there?

“I do not support the loss of local health services in rural Wales. But where any proposals could mean people travelling further, public transport must be part of the decision from the very beginning. It is not good enough to centralise services and then leave families facing impossible journeys.

“For many people in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, a three-hour bus journey each way is simply not realistic. These are not abstract policy issues. They affect people trying to visit relatives in hospital, get to work, reach appointments and live their daily lives.”

Ms Archibald also raised concerns about the Milford Haven to Haverfordwest train service, where the current timetable is not suitable for many working people.

The morning train arrives in Haverfordwest too late for those who need to be at work by 9:00am, while return options around the end of the working day are also impractical for many commuters.

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Reform UK councillor Scott Thorley had previously raised the issue with Transport for Wales, highlighting the number of people travelling into Haverfordwest for work and the pressure this places on already busy roads.

Following the meeting, TfW agreed to review the Milford Haven to Haverfordwest timetable, with a view to making the service more practical for workers and helping to reduce congestion in Haverfordwest.

Ms Archibald added: “This is exactly the kind of practical issue that matters to people locally. A train service is only useful if the timetable works for real life.

“People in Milford Haven and the surrounding area should be able to use the train to get to work in Haverfordwest. If the timing means they still have to drive, then the service is not doing what it needs to do.

“I am pleased Transport for Wales has agreed to review the timetable, and I will be following this closely.

Rural transport needs to work for working people, not just look acceptable on paper.”

Transport for Wales also confirmed that the new Class 197 fleet for the Aberystwyth to Shrewsbury Cambrian Line is scheduled for September or October.

Ms Archibald said she would continue working with TfW to push for better transport links across

Ceredigion Penfro.

She said: “Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion need transport links that reflect the reality of rural life. Whether it is getting to work, reaching hospital, visiting family or accessing essential

services, people need reliable and practical options.

“I will continue to raise these issues and work with Transport for Wales to ensure Ceredigion Penfro has suitable transport.”

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First Minister challenged over jobs for student nurses REFORM WALES has accused the First Minister of failing to guarantee jobs for student nurses in Wales, despite continuing pressure on the NHS. During First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday (Jun 9), Reform Wales leader Dan Thomas MS challenged Rhun ap Iorwerth to promise that all student nurses would be offered employment in Wales after graduation.

Mr Thomas linked the issue to the Welsh Government’s overseas affairs budget, saying £9m should instead be used to employ newly qualified nurses.

He told the Senedd: “Will you do the right thing and will you guarantee all student nurses in Wales a job when they graduate, yes or no?”

The First Minister did not give a direct guarantee, but said workforce planning was central to the government’s health strategy.

Rhun ap Iorwerth said: “Putting a robust plan in place to make sure that people who have decided to devote

themselves to careers in nursing or medicine or all the allied health professionals is a core part of our delivery of a workforce strategy.

“That is why my Minister for health and care has already begun the work of ensuring that we are able to support students to have careers within the NHS.” The exchange comes after the Royal College of Nursing Wales warned in April that up to half of this year’s nursing graduates in Wales could be left without a role because of a shortage of Band 5 posts.

The RCN said the situation risked leaving hundreds of newly qualified nurses without work, despite pressure on services and continuing concerns about staffing levels.

Speaking after FMQs, Mr Thomas said: “Our health service is in desperate need of qualified staff. It is unacceptable that newly qualified nurses, doctors and paramedics are being told to find work outside of

Wales.

“We all know Plaid Cymru are all in favour of open migration but forcing Welsh nursing graduates to move overseas is taking it way too far.

“I was disappointed that the First Minister could not commit to ensuring these hardworking, qualified

professionals can move into the frontline roles our NHS so desperately needs to fill.”

The Welsh Government says its health minister has begun work on supporting students into NHS careers, but no blanket job guarantee was given during the Senedd exchange.

Forgotten wartime archive found in Pembroke Dock attic after 80 years A REMARKABLE untouched family archive documenting the lives of two Pembroke Dock servicemen who fought for Britain across both World Wars has been discovered in the attic of a terraced house in the town.

The collection, found at a property on Lewis Street, contains original military papers, wartime identity documents, Army service certificates and an old Dyfed driving licence belonging to members of the Atcherley family.

The archive was uncovered by local resident Ryan Guy, who said he was stunned by what he found hidden away in the loft at 33 Lewis Street.

The cache of wartime documents was discovered in the attic of Charlotte Furniss, where Ryan Guy and Charlotte spent time going through boxes of historic material before realising the significance of what they had uncovered.

At the heart of the discovery are records belonging to father and son Samuel and James Atcherley, whose military careers spanned decades of British history.

World War One soldier Among the most significant finds is an original discharge certificate belonging to Samuel Atcherley, who served with the King’s Shropshire Light

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Infantry.

The document shows Samuel enlisted at Shrewsbury on July 19, 1909, before going on to serve throughout the early years of the First World War. Military records found in the attic show he was discharged on September 6, 1916 after being declared “no longer physically fit for war service” following more than seven years with the Colours.

The papers also paint a vivid picture of the soldier himself. Samuel was described as standing 5ft 6in tall, with fair complexion, grey eyes and blonde hair.

Experts in military history say surviving original service records from the First World War are increasingly rare, particularly where complete family papers remain together.

Secret wartime work The archive also sheds light on the military career of Samuel’s son, James Henry Atcherley, who served during the Second World War and into the post-war period.

Among the papers is an Army Certificate of Service confirming James reached the rank of Sergeant and served for almost twenty years.

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Man admits Currys theft spree across west Wales

A MAN has admitted a series of thefts from Currys stores across Wales and the south west of England, including offences in Haverfordwest and Carmarthen.

Ilia Patchkoria, aged 27, of Rochdale Road, Bacup, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Friday (Jun 5).

He indicated guilty pleas to eight shop theft charges involving electrical items.

The court heard that on May 23, Patchkoria stole electrical items worth £1,525 from Currys PC World in Haverfordwest.

On the same day, he also stole electrical items worth £7,664.78 from Currys PC World in Carmarthen.

The other offences involved thefts from Currys stores in Penzance, Truro, Plymouth, Barnstaple and Torquay between May 14 and May 18.

Patchkoria was remanded in custody and will return to Llanelli Magistrates’ Court for sentence on Friday, June 19.

Kebab firm fined £500,000 after ‘lamb’ found to be mostley skin and fat A KEBAB manufacturer whose products were sold to takeaways across West Wales has been fined £500,000 after a court heard meat sold as “lamb” contained little actual lamb.

At Swansea Crown Court, judges heard products supplied by Essexbased Kismet Kebabs Ltd contained a mix of **skin, fat, goat, mutton and mechanically reclaimed meat**, while being labelled as lamb.

Trading standards officers began investigating after samples taken from kebab houses in Swansea failed meat content tests. One product claiming to contain **87% lamb** was found

to contain only **51% meat and 40% fat**.

The company admitted fraud by false representation and was also

ordered to pay **£259,298 in costs**.

The Herald understands Kismet products were widely distributed to takeaways and wholesalers across

**West Wales**, raising questions over how many local customers may have unknowingly eaten misleadingly labelled kebabs.

Man accused of six rapes including alleged Haverfordwest offence A MAN has been sent to Crown Court accused of six rapes, including an alleged offence at a Haverfordwest campsite.

Michael Harris, 37, of Bow Street Village, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jun 10).

Harris is charged with six offences of rape of a woman aged 16 or over, contrary to section one of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 2015 and 2025 at locations including Perthog, Bow Street, and the Rising Sun Campsite in Haverfordwest.

No pleas were entered during the hearing.

Harris was sent to Swansea Crown Court, where he is due to appear for

Court Reporter

a plea and trial preparation hearing on Friday, July 10.

He was remanded on conditional bail.

The court imposed conditions including that Harris must not enter specified addresses in the Aberystwyth and Bow Street areas, and must not contact named individuals directly or indirectly, including through social media.

The case was sent to the Crown Court under section 51 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

The complainant in the case has automatic lifetime anonymity under the Sexual Offences Amendment Act 1992.

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Person taken to hospital after Tenby Esplanade incident POLICE have confirmed that emergency services were called to a property on the Esplanade in Tenby at around 10:35am on Thursday (June 4) following a report of concern for the welfare of an individual.

Officers attended alongside colleagues from the ambulance and fire services, and the road was closed while emergency services were at the scene.

The individual has been taken to hospital for medical attention.

Photographs from the scene show police, ambulance and fire crews in attendance, with cordons in place along the seafront road.

Pics: Gareth Davies/Herald

Search stood down after concern for people at Cefn Sidan beach A MULTI-agency search at Cefn Sidan beach has been stood down after police said officers were satisfied there was no risk of harm or danger.

Dyfed-Powys Police received a call at around 9:50pm on Monday (June 8) reporting two people dressed in dark clothing waving a torch near the water’s edge at Pembrey.

Police and partner agencies searched the beach and nearby area overnight, but no one was found.

In an update issued on Tuesday (June

9), the force said the information had been reviewed and officers were satisfied that there was no danger, although the original call had been made with good intent.

No further calls of concern have been received, and no missing persons have been reported in the area.

Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We always take reports of this nature seriously and we want to thank the public for their vigilance. Thank you to our partners for their assistance overnight.”

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MPs warn overcrowded Welsh prisons are undermining safety and rehabilitation A DAMNING report by MPs has warned that overcrowding, staff shortages and rising pressure across Welsh prisons are undermining safety, rehabilitation and public confidence in the justice system.

The Welsh Affairs Committee says the prison and probation system in Wales is struggling with population pressures, workforce problems and increasingly complex demand.

Its report, Jagged Justice: Prisons, Probation and Rehabilitation in Wales, follows a year-long inquiry into prisons and probation services.

MPs said the challenges in Wales are made worse by the split between UK Government control of criminal justice and Welsh Government responsibility for key services such as health, housing and education.

The committee said Welsh prisons are facing serious pressure, with overcrowding and staffing shortages limiting time out of cells and reducing access to education, work and rehabilitation.

It also raised concern over the lack of effective oversight at HMP Parc, where seventeen men died in 2024, and called for better resourcing of Independent Monitoring Boards across Wales.

Welsh women ‘far from home’ The report highlights the position of Welsh women in the criminal justice system, with no women’s prison in Wales.

Welsh women given custodial sentences are held in England, often far from their families and support networks.

MPs said short prison sentences for women were often damaging and ineffective, and expressed deep

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disappointment over delays and lack of transparency surrounding the proposed Swansea Residential Women’s Centre.

The centre was intended to act as an alternative to custody for women who had committed lower-level offences, but its future remains unclear.

The committee has called on the Ministry of Justice to confirm whether the centre will open and, if so, when.

Welsh language rights The report also warns of persistent

shortcomings in protecting the rights of Welsh-speaking prisoners.

MPs said prisoners should be able to speak Welsh wherever they are held and called for more consistent inspection of Welsh language provision in prisons.

The committee recommends that UK Government agencies such as HMPPS should follow Welsh Language Standards Regulations.

Higher imprisonment rate MPs also called for a joint academic review into why Wales has a consistently higher imprisonment rate than England and much of Western Europe.

The committee said better Wales-

specific justice data is needed to understand the problem and plan services properly.

Ruth Jones MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, said: “Throughout our inquiry and visits to prisons across England and Wales, we found dedicated staff and genuine examples of good practice and innovation.

“But we also found a system that too often fails the people it is meant to serve.

“It’s a system struggling with population pressures, staffing shortages, and increasingly complex demand, all of which have serious implications for safety and rehabilitation outcomes.”

She added: “Welsh women who are serving their custodial sentences in prisons are often far from home, family and the support services they will be returning to.

“That’s why we are urging the Government to confirm its plans for the Swansea Residential Women’s Centre.”

The committee said the Ministry of Justice should meet Welsh justice unions to address recruitment and retention problems, including concerns over pay and conditions.

It also called for better support for probation staff, improved healthcare funding for prisoners in Wales, and earlier notification to councils when prisoners are due to be released and may need housing.

The report concludes that justice in Wales is being held back by overcrowded prisons, workforce pressures and policies that do not always reflect Wales’ unique devolved landscape.

MPs said improvement will require better data, sustained investment and closer working between the UK and Welsh Governments.

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Founders Day hailed a success despite rising costs

MILFORD HAVEN FOUNDERS DAY 2026 drew crowds to the town centre on Saturday despite difficult weather, rising costs, and significantly increased security measures.

Visitors braved spells of rain and strong winds to enjoy a packed programme of entertainment, community stalls, children’s attractions and live music throughout the day.

This year’s event, organised by Milford Haven Business Circle, featured a large number of bouncy castles supplied

by Fun Times Bouncy Castles, alongside food stalls, small funfair rides, free facepainting, and a magician entertaining families.

There was also a wide range of independent traders and community attractions. Among the more unusual stalls was Sylvia Llewellyn’s popular button collection, featuring unusual and decorative buttons gathered from

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around the world, while Han’s Taxidermy attracted interest with framed butterflies and beetles on display and for sale.

Milford Youth Matters praised for their stall Milford Youth Matters said its volunteers worked “non-stop” throughout the day, running a stall and delivering activities for the community.

The group said the poor weather made conditions difficult but praised volunteers for their determination and enthusiasm.

A spokesperson said: “Despite the challenging rain and wind throughout the day, our incredible team of volunteers worked tirelessly to make our contributions a success.

“They gave up their time to support the community, run activities, welcome visitors, and kept going with enthusiasm and smiles all day long.

“The weather may have been challenging, but the dedication, resilience, and hard work shown by our volunteers was outstanding. Their commitment helped create a fantastic community event that was enjoyed by people of all ages.”

Security stepped up This year’s event also had a noticeably different feel, with security personnel present for the first time.

Organiser Byron Jenkins told The Herald that around 13 door staff were on duty throughout the event — something not seen at previous Founders Day celebrations.

The Herald understands the

increased security presence followed concerns after the Milford Haven school knife incident and the stabbings at Tenby railway station.

Organisers also revealed that the cost of staging Founders Day has now risen to around £10,000.

Road closure costs have also become a major expense, with organisers telling The Herald that Pembrokeshire County Council charged around £800 for the temporary road closure order required to hold the event safely.

Despite the extra costs and challenging conditions, organisers said the event was well supported and thanked local businesses, volunteers and residents for helping make the day a success.

Milford Youth Matters also thanked Milford Haven Business Circle and the wider community for their continued support, and for hosting the event.

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Mayors and community leaders join Founders Day celebrations A HOST of civic dignitaries and community representatives joined residents for this year’s Milford Haven Founders Day, helping to mark the town’s annual celebration of its heritage and community spirit.

The event, held on Saturday, welcomed mayors and representatives from towns across Pembrokeshire, alongside police officers, clergy and local business leaders.

Milford Haven Founders Day organisers thanked guests for attending and supporting the occasion, describing their presence as helping to make the day “even more special”.

Among those attending were the Mayor of Milford Haven, Mark Woodward, accompanied by Mayoress Evija Upeniece Woodward; the Mayor of Haverfordwest, Councillor Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner, accompanied by Mayoress and Sheriff Councillor Dani Thomas-Turner; the Mayor of Pembroke, Jonathan Grimes; the Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Councillor Tony Wilcox; and the Mayor of Neyland, Councillor Peter Hay, accompanied by Mayoress Mitzy Hay. The event also welcomed local Police Community Support Officers from Milford Haven and Neyland Police, Reverend Dr Adrian Furse of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, Milford Haven, Milford Haven Business Circle chairman Byron Thomas Jenkins, and treasurer Amanda Dyson.

Organisers said the strong turnout from civic leaders reflected the importance of Founders Day as a celebration of Milford Haven’s identity and local pride.

A spokesperson for Milford Haven

Founders Day said: “Your presence and support helped make the day a memorable celebration of our town, its history and its community spirit. We are truly grateful that you took the time to join

us and share in the festivities.”

Pembroke Mayor Jonathan Grimes later praised the event, commenting: “Thank you for the kind invitation – it was a wonderful event!”

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Yacht rescued after mayday call off Whitesands Bay

A YACHT was rescued by St Davids RNLI after issuing a mayday call when it became grounded in Whitesands Bay. St Davids all-weather lifeboat was paged at 2:21am on Sunday (May 31), after the yacht reported that it was aground in the bay.

The lifeboat launched shortly after 2:30am and was quickly on scene after a short passage around Point St John. St Davids Coastguard Rescue Team and a Coastguard helicopter were also tasked.

The vessel was found at the southern end of Whitesands Bay, just off Pencarnan Beach, where it had anchored earlier in the evening.

With the tide rising, the yacht had just enough water beneath it to float.

After an initial assessment, the lifeboat crew decided the rescue helicopter could be stood down as there was no immediate risk to life.

Given the yacht’s proximity to the shore, and with no water ingress

reported, a line was passed so the vessel could be pulled clear of the beach.

Two RNLI crew members went aboard to help the solo sailor recover the anchor and attach the towline.

However, the anchor was firmly attached to the seabed, so it was marked with floats and released from the boat.

Once the yacht was clear of danger, it became apparent that earlier contact with the seabed had damaged its rudder, affecting its steering.

With the vessel stuck steering to starboard, a slow-speed tow was carried out into Ramsey Sound.

The yacht was then placed into an alongside tow and safely secured on the casualty mooring.

The two RNLI crew members were recovered before the all-weather lifeboat returned to the slipway for rehousing shortly before 5:00am.

Photos: St Davids Coastguard Rescue Team and St Davids RNLI.

Begelly man remanded over alleged May Day assault Tomas Baker, 34, of Ty Dee, New Road, Begelly, is accused of assaulting the woman, causing actual bodily harm, at an undisclosed location in Begelly on May 1.

Baker appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week by video link from Swansea Prison.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

His trial will take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on June 22.

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PCC review calls for stronger youth crime prevention work A REVIEW into crime and anti-social behaviour services for young adults has called for stronger prevention work, better promotion of support services, and clearer evidence of what works.

The Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner’s Select Committee examined intervention, prevention and engagement services for young adults aged 18 to 25.

The review gathered evidence from young people, partner agencies, an open call for evidence, internal scrutiny work, and a hearing attended by police and local authority representatives.

As a result, the committee has made 13 recommendations, which have now been shared with relevant partners.

They include calls for services to place greater emphasis on social and emotional skills and healthy relationships, and for Dyfed-Powys Police to consider producing a Strategic Profile of crime and antisocial behaviour committed by 18 to 25-year-olds.

The committee also recommends that partner organisations do more to promote intervention, prevention and engagement services for young adults, so that professionals and communities know what help is available.

Other recommendations include sharing evaluation findings between local authority areas, updating police data dashboards to include age-group information, and demonstrating the impact of police prevention work to young adults.

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The report also calls for scrutiny of problem-orientated policing plans to assess the effectiveness of mental health services, and for police to seek assurance that Outcome 22 is being used effectively.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: “My Select

Committee has been able to give an important area a spotlight through our work and to present hopefully impactful recommendations to partners.

“We have listened to young adults’ voices throughout this process, which has been key in developing the recommendations around services which may directly affect them and their peers.

“One of my Youth Ambassadors sat on the Select Committee, and his perspective, alongside that of all other members, was invaluable.

“Thank you to all who have been involved in this review. Diolch yn fawr.”

The full report is available on the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner’s website.

Welsh Ambulance Service to hold extraordinary board meeting THE WELSH AMBULANCE SERVICE will hold an extraordinary Trust Board meeting later this month.

Members of the public will be able to watch the meeting online via Microsoft Teams on Thursday (Jun 25), from 9:30am to 10:00am.

Board members are expected to receive and approve the Trust’s Annual Report and Accounts for 2025–26.

Colin Dennis, Chair of the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “Our Board meetings play a vital role in ensuring transparency and openness in everything we do, and we would invite anyone with an interest in the Trust’s work to join us virtually to find out more.”

A link to watch the meeting will be available through the Trust, but viewers are advised it will only work from 10 minutes before the meeting begins.

An agenda will be published on the Trust’s website in the days before the meeting.

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Davies attacks Welsh Government funding for campaign urging people to limit red meat WELSH CONSERVATIVE Shadow Farming Minister Andrew RT Davies has called on Plaid Cymru ministers to stop funding public information campaigns which he says undermine Welsh meat.

The criticism follows a Welsh Government response to a written question from Welsh Conservative Senedd Leader Darren Millar, which showed £662,000 was allocated to the Climate Action Wales campaign during 2025-26.

Examples of the campaign include online advice on ‘green food choices’, sustainable eating and meat-free options, alongside wider material on energy, travel and consumer behaviour.

The campaign gives advice on reducing carbon emissions through choices on food, travel, energy and purchasing. Its sustainable food guidance says meat is among the largest contributors to greenhouse gas

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emissions, particularly from ruminant livestock such as cows and sheep.

It also advises people to limit red and processed meat, while saying those who do eat meat should try to buy local, sustainably farmed produce where available.

Mr Davies said Welsh meat should be promoted rather than undermined.

He said: “Welsh meat is of the highest quality and the industry forms a key part of our economy.

“Plaid Cymru separatists must celebrate it, not fund campaigns that undermine Welsh meat.

“No project aimed at discouraging meat consumption should receive public funds.”

The Welsh Government response said the figures related to public information campaigns connected to the previous government’s policies.

Teacher incentive scheme branded ‘sticking plaster’ by school leaders SCHOOL leaders have warned that a Welsh Government plan to increase incentive payments for trainee teachers in priority subjects risks creating a “two-tier workforce”.

NAHT Cymru said the move may help attract some new teachers, but warned it does not address the wider recruitment and retention crisis facing schools across Wales.

The Welsh Government’s priority subject incentive scheme offers grants to eligible postgraduate teacher trainees in subjects including biology, chemistry, design and technology, digital technology and computer science, mathematics, international languages, physics and Welsh.

Laura Doel, national secretary of NAHT Cymru, said: “While we agree that an ambitious plan to help schools struggling with recruitment and retention of teachers is needed, we don’t think focusing on subjectspecific incentives is the way to go.

“This risks creating a two-tier workforce and appears to be a shortterm sticking plaster solution for a systemic problem.”

She said there appeared to be no requirement for teachers to remain in schools for a set number of years after induction in order to keep the payment.

Ms Doel added: “We know a significant proportion of teachers leave the profession within the first

five years of teaching.”

NAHT Cymru said ministers should focus instead on the wider pressures affecting teachers, school leaders and primary schools, as well as secondary subjects where recruitment is difficult.

The union said improving pay, terms and conditions, and reducing workload would do more to make teaching an attractive long-term career.

Ms Doel said: “By going further in restoring the real-terms value of pay, which fell sharply over the previous decade, improving terms and conditions, and bearing down on unsustainable levels of workload, ministers could make the profession an attractive long-term career proposition once again.

“But schools also need fairer funding to recruit the staff and support

staff they need and deliver for pupils.”

She said ensuring schools receive the full consequential funding owed through the Barnett Formula should be a priority for the new administration.

NAHT represents more than 38,000 school leaders across early years, primary, secondary and special schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

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Childcare row erupts as Plaid faces questions over costs and delivery Senedd of effectively criticising their own party after 11 Reform MSs voted for an amended motion which noted Reform UK had made no childcare commitments in its Welsh manifesto.

“What surprised everyone was that 11 Reform MSs voted with us and Plaid to attack their own party,” Mr Rowlands said.

“Either Reform MSs have no idea what they were doing or one third have decided to attack their own party.”

REFORM HITS BACK

PLAID CYMRU’S flagship promise to create what it describes as the “most generous childcare offer in the United Kingdom” has become the centre of an increasingly bitter political row, with questions mounting over cost, delivery and whether the plans are fully developed.

In a week of political sparring in Cardiff Bay, both Reform Wales and the Welsh Conservatives accused the Plaid-led Government of failing to explain how the policy will be funded or when families will actually see the promised support.

At the same time, Reform and the Conservatives turned on each other in the Senedd chamber, accusing rival MSs of hypocrisy over childcare votes.

The increasingly heated exchanges underline how childcare is emerging as one of the first major battlegrounds of the new Senedd term.

PROMISES UNDER PRESSURE Plaid Cymru campaigned heavily on a pledge to expand childcare support across Wales, describing it as a transformational policy for working families.

However, critics say ministers have yet to provide detailed costings, timelines or clear implementation plans.

The concerns first surfaced following comments made by Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams in an ITV

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Wales interview, where she suggested detailed planning for the scheme had not yet begun.

That prompted criticism from Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Minister for Education, Families and Constitution Sam Rowlands MS. Mr Rowlands said: “Improving childcare in Wales is important and can provide the support many parents need, but Plaid cannot roll out their flagship policy without being honest about how it will be funded.

“The Deputy First Minister’s comments in an ITV interview that Plaid have not yet begun planning how this will be fully delivered are extremely concerning.”

The Conservatives argued that because Plaid had supported Labour’s budget prior to entering government, ministers should have already developed a workable delivery model.

Mr Rowlands added: “The Welsh Conservatives believe that any funding for this policy must not come from cuts to essential services.”

REFORM: ‘ALL TALK, NO DELIVERY’ Reform Wales later escalated the criticism, accusing Plaid ministers of prioritising announcements over delivery.

Responding to a Welsh Government

childcare statement this week, Reform Wales Deputy Leader and Shadow Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language Helen Jenner MS said families had still not been given meaningful clarity.

Ms Jenner said: “Plaid Cymru’s manifesto promised what it described as the most generous childcare offer in the United Kingdom, but there is still no clarity on cost, funding or delivery timelines.

“Today’s statement has offered more talk of working groups, planning exercises and future phases, rather than clear delivery or firm commitments.”

Reform said parents deserved “full transparency” over how the childcare offer would be funded and delivered.

SENEDD DEBATE TURNS INTO POLITICAL BRAWL The argument intensified dramatically during a Senedd debate on childcare on Wednesday (Jun 10).

The original Reform motion criticised the Welsh Government’s approach to childcare, but amendments tabled

by Plaid Cymru changed the wording before the final vote.

The amended motion ultimately passed by 61 votes to 29, with one abstention.

The debate triggered a furious exchange between Reform and the Conservatives.

Conservative MS Sam Rowlands accused Reform Members of the

Reform Wales quickly responded, accusing the Conservatives of siding with Plaid Cymru and helping the Government avoid scrutiny.

Dan Thomas MS, Reform Wales Leader of the Opposition, said the Conservatives had effectively given ministers a “blank cheque”.

Mr Thomas said: “The Conservatives had a perfect opportunity to stand with Reform Wales and hold this Plaid Cymru minority government to account.

“Instead, they chose to side with the Government and have effectively written the Government a blank cheque on a policy expected to cost hundreds of millions of pounds.”

He added: “The people of Wales deserve full transparency on every major policy brought forward by this administration.”

WHO IS RIGHT? Behind the political point-scoring lies a genuine policy question: how much will expanded childcare cost, and how quickly can it realistically be delivered?

Plaid Cymru’s childcare pledge was one of the centrepieces of its election offer to families. But critics argue that major reforms of this scale usually require significant workforce expansion, new childcare capacity and detailed cost modelling.

Supporters of the policy say investment in childcare pays for itself through higher employment, better early-years development and lower long-term social costs.

The Herald understands ministers are expected to face increasing pressure in the coming weeks to publish more detailed plans, including funding arrangements and delivery timetables.

For now, childcare has become one of the first major flashpoints of the new Senedd — exposing fault lines not only between government and opposition, but between opposition parties competing to define themselves as the toughest critics of Plaid Cymru’s minority administration.

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Royal Welsh Show visitors urged to travel sustainably able to buy discounted show admission tickets from conductors and ticket offices along the route.

The discounted prices are £35 for adults and £11 for children. Children under 16 can travel free by train when accompanied by a fare-paying adult.

Transport for Wales said rail services would connect visitors from across Wales and the borders, including routes from Cardiff through some of Wales’ most scenic countryside. TrawsCymru bus services will also provide another option for those travelling to the event.

Family activities

VISITORS to this year’s Royal Welsh Show are being encouraged to use public transport as organisers look to ease congestion and promote more sustainable travel.

The show takes place at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd, Builth

Wells, from July 20 to 23, and is expected to attract thousands of people from across Wales and beyond.

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said rail and bus services would provide convenient options for showgoers, with free shuttle buses running from Builth

Road railway station to the showground, which is just over a mile away.

Discounted admission Visitors travelling on the Heart of Wales Line with a valid rail ticket will be

Transport for Wales and Network Rail will also have an interactive stand at the show, offering family-friendly rail safety activities and entertainment.

Activities will include VR headset experiences, story time sessions, badge-making classes and rail safety performances. Builth Wells Male Voice Choir is also due to visit the stand on the first day of the show.

Children under 16 travelling to the show by train on the Heart of Wales Line will be able to collect a free activity sheet on board and hand in their completed artwork at the Transport for Wales stand for a chance to win a prize.

Visitors are being urged to plan their journeys in advance through the Transport for Wales website and journey planner.

MPs seek frontline views on child poverty crisis across Wales MPs are inviting frontline workers across Wales to share evidence on how child poverty is affecting families and communities.

The Welsh Affairs Committee is asking practitioners who work with children and families to take part in an online roundtable at 3:00pm on Tuesday, July 14.

The session will help inform the committee’s inquiry into working towards ending child poverty in Wales.

It comes after weeks of renewed political debate over child poverty, including Welsh Government pledges on childcare, free school meals and direct support for low-income families.

The latest call from MPs shifts the focus from policy promises to frontline experience, asking those working directly with families to explain where poverty is being felt most sharply, which groups are most at risk, and whether current support is reaching the people who need it.

Welsh Government figures have previously shown around 31% of children in Wales living in relative income poverty, while the Bevan Foundation has said latest data points to around 210,000 children being

affected.

MPs say they want to hear directly from people working in communities, including those supporting families at greater risk of poverty, such as households with disabled adults or children, and ethnic minority-headed households.

Committee chair Ruth Jones MP said: “Our inquiry is investigating the barriers to ending child poverty

in Wales. Hearing from individuals working to support families in communities up and down the country will provide the committee with invaluable insight, which can then inform our recommendations to the UK Government.

“We are keen to hear from a diverse range of practitioners across Wales, especially those working with disabled or ethnic minority groups.

I encourage those with valuable experience to share to take the opportunity to participate.”

Child poverty affects communities in different ways across Wales. In rural areas, families can face higher transport costs, limited access to childcare, poor public transport and fewer local services. In urban communities, housing costs, insecure work, debt and pressure on food banks are among the key issues raised by campaigners.

Practitioners are being asked to email welshcom@parliament.uk by Friday, June 26, with details of their organisation, where in Wales they work, whether they support families at higher risk of poverty, and a brief outline of their experience.

Applicants will be told by Tuesday, June 30, whether they have been selected to take part.

The Welsh Affairs Committee scrutinises the work of the Wales Office and UK Government policy affecting Wales. Its inquiry is looking at how the UK and Welsh governments can work together to tackle child poverty and what barriers remain to ending it.

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Corridor care data should be published in Wales, says nursing union and staff cannot care adequately for patients, which is causing harm and distress to patients, and significantly affecting nurses’ morale.”

In the Senedd on Tuesday (June 2), Health and Care Cabinet Secretary Mabon ap Gwynfor described corridor care as an unsafe practice and said tackling it was a priority.

RCN Wales said it welcomed that recognition but said the next step must be proper measurement and public reporting.

Ms Williams said: “Without consistent national and organisationwide data, it is impossible to establish the true scale of the problem, identify trends, target resources effectively or measure progress over time.”

Call for national reviews

RCN Wales says patients are being left in chairs and hospital corridors for hours as England begins releasing national figures WALES is being urged to begin publishing hospital corridor care data after England released its first national figures exposing the scale of patients being treated in inappropriate spaces.

RCN Wales said the Welsh Government cannot properly tackle unsafe care if it is not routinely measured or publicly reported.

The call follows the publication of corridor care data by NHS England, which RCN Wales said provides a clearer picture of the scale of the issue in English hospitals for the first time.

The union is calling for the Welsh Government to publish monthly corridor care data by health board, agree a national data set, and release the first figures as soon as possible.

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‘Unsafe and unacceptable’ Nicola Williams, Executive Director of RCN Wales, said: “Today’s publication of corridor care data in England demonstrates why transparency matters. We cannot tackle a problem we do not fully understand and are not measuring.

“Corridor care is unsafe, undignified and unacceptable. Nurses across Wales have repeatedly raised concerns about patients being treated in inappropriate spaces because of pressures on the health and care system.”

Ms Williams said she had recently visited a number of hospitals in Wales where she saw patients in chairs, on trolleys in corridors, and squeezed into overcrowded areas not designed for

patient care.

She said some patients had been there for well over 12 hours.

She added: “There was one consistent feature which was the look of fear in patients’ eyes as they watched the continual movement and activity going on loudly in very close proximity to them.

“These patients were mainly in gowns with no privacy, no dignity, no space and no confidentiality.”

‘Now normalised’ RCN Wales said nurses had reported that corridor care had become normalised in some hospital settings.

Ms Williams said staff were going home after shifts knowing they had not been able to give patients the care they deserved.

She said: “Nurses told me this is now normalised, happens every day

RCN Wales is also calling for the publication of two national reviews into healthcare capacity, alongside policy recommendations for action.

The union said understanding the relationship between capacity pressures and corridor care would be essential if the practice was to be eliminated.

Ms Williams added: “This is not about collecting statistics for their own sake. It is about establishing a baseline against which improvement can be measured and ensuring accountability for delivering safer care for patients.

“Nursing staff have been warning about the dangers of corridor care for years. Patients deserve care delivered in safe and appropriate clinical environments, and staff deserve the resources and capacity needed to provide it.

“The publication of data in England is an important step. Wales must now follow suit and ensure we have the evidence needed to eradicate corridor care for good.”

Pembrokeshire residents asked to help shape ten-year tourism vision PEMBROKESHIRE residents, businesses, community groups and visitors are being invited to have their say on the future of tourism in the county.

Visit Pembrokeshire has launched a new community engagement survey called Pembrokeshire, Our Future, Our Opportunity, aimed at helping shape a ten-year vision for the county’s visitor economy.

The survey, which launched during the week commencing Monday (June 8), is open to residents, businesses, organisations, students, partners and visitors.

It comes as Pembrokeshire continues to balance the benefits of tourism with wider concerns around housing, infrastructure, seasonal pressure, jobs, transport, the environment and the future of local communities.

Visit Pembrokeshire says the results will help inform long-term priorities and build on its existing Destination Management Plan for 2024-2028.

The survey takes around ten minutes to complete and is available in both English and Welsh.

Emma Thornton, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Pembrokeshire, said: “This is much more than a survey.

It is an opportunity for the people of Pembrokeshire to help shape the future of the place they know, value and care deeply about.”

She said tourism supports jobs and businesses, while also helping sustain communities, culture and the environment.

Neil Kedward, Chair of Visit Pembrokeshire, said the county’s future was something “we all have a stake in”.

He added that the engagement

exercise was about understanding what success looks like from the perspective of communities and businesses.

The survey will close on Friday,

August 21.

It can be completed at: https://forms. office.com/e/WpwPtgwDDW

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Graffiti condemned after Johnston wall vandalised A PEMBROKESHIRE councillor has condemned “mindless” graffiti daubed on a wall in Johnston, saying it sends the wrong message to children, visitors and residents.

Cllr Aled Thomas, who represents Johnston, said he was “really angry” after seeing the words sprayed in blue paint in the village.

He said he was not personally offended by the abuse, but was upset by the impact on the wider community.

Cllr Thomas said: “What really angered me was what type of message this sends to visitors and young people in our community, particularly as there are so many hardworking people behind the scenes just trying to make Johnston a better place for everyone.”

He said Johnston Community Council had worked hard to improve local green spaces, including Glebelands Field, the Woodland Walk and Vine Field, as well as ensuring play parks were safe to use.

He added: “Someone throwing all that hard work by local residents down the drain by detracting from it with petty graffiti makes me angry.”

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The councillor also said children walking to Johnston School should not be exposed to “mindless disgusting language”, adding that staff and governors worked hard to foster “decency and respect”.

Addressing whoever was responsible, he said: “If you have a personal problem with me or my party, I suggest you reach out to me to discuss your problems without ruining the village for everyone else.

“Failing that, you can graffiti your ballot paper next May instead and vote me out as your local councillor — but until that day comes, I’ll continue doing my very best to help Johnston and its residents thrive, and no graffiti will ever stop me.”

Paul Davies MS also criticised the vandalism, saying: “This is absolutely disgraceful. Of course, I realise that people disagree with our views as Conservatives but to vandalise, use this language and spoil our environment is totally unacceptable.”

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Pendine cliff fall victim recovering after major emergency response A 22-YEAR-OLD man who suffered serious injuries after falling from cliffs overlooking Pendine Beach is recovering well following emergency surgery.

The man was visiting Pendine with friends on a weekend break when the incident happened on Saturday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the scene after he fell from a cliff edge above the beach, sustaining significant chest, facial and pelvic injuries.

A major multi-agency response was launched involving the Welsh Ambulance Service, HM Coastguard, Dyfed-Powys Police and the Wales Air Ambulance.

Personnel from Pendine Community Council also assisted at the scene.

After receiving emergency treatment, the casualty was airlifted to Cardiff for specialist hospital care, where he underwent surgery.

An update released with the consent Pictured are the injured man’s friends with Michaela Dance, presenting her with a gift as a token of their appreciation of the injured man and his family for the assistance she provided following the incident. confirmed that he is now recovering well.

The young man, his family and Tom Sinclair assistance before emergency crews during the incident. friends have expressed their gratitude to editor@herald.email arrived.

Despite the seriousness of the everyone involved in the rescue effort, The family said they were extremely injuries sustained, the outcome has treatment and ongoing care.

Nurse Practitioner, who was first on thankful for the professionalism, skill and been positive, with family and friends Special thanks were paid to local the scene and provided immediate compassion shown by all emergency acknowledging that the situation could resident Michaela Dance, an Emergency service personnel and those who helped have been far worse.

Hakin motorist banned after driving 14 times over drug limit A HAKIN motorist has been banned from driving for three years after being caught behind the wheel with cocaine and benzoylecgonine in his system.

Mark Briskham, 53, of Waterloo Square, Wellington Road, Hakin, was stopped by police on January 5 as he drove a Ford Kuga along Steynton Road, near Milford Haven.

Blood tests carried out at the police station showed he had 800mcg of benzoylecgonine in his system. The legal limit is 50mcg.

He also had 64mcg of cocaine in his system. The legal limit is 10mcg.

Briskham pleaded guilty to two drugdriving charges when he appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Magistrates disqualified him from driving for three years, taking into account a previous drug-drive conviction from 2020.

He was also fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 surcharge.

Carmarthenshire lorry driver arrested after fatal crash near Liverpool A LORRY driver from Carmarthenshire has been arrested following the death of a motorcyclist in a crash near Liverpool late on Monday night.

Emergency services were called to the westbound carriageway of the East Lancashire Road in Haydock at around 11:00pm on Monday (Jun 8), following reports of a collision involving a motorcycle and two heavy goods vehicles.

The motorcyclist, a man in his 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

His next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.

Merseyside Police said a 38-year-old man from Carmarthenshire was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving and driving while unfit through drugs.

A second man, aged 28 and from Widnes, was also arrested in connection with the incident. Both remained in custody following the crash.

Police believe two HGVs towing white trailers were involved. One lorry had a dark-coloured cab, while the second was described as white with black stripes.

Investigators are now working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision.

Officers are appealing for witnesses, dashcam footage, CCTV, or any information that may help their investigation.

Anyone travelling on the East Lancashire Road near Haydock at the time of the collision is asked to contact Merseyside Police quoting reference 26000456942.

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Summer Feastival to bring food, music and family fun to Pembrey

A WEEKEND of street food, live music, circus entertainment and family activities is heading to Pembrey Country Park this month.

Summer Feastival, organised by Street Food Circus, will take place from Friday, June 19 to Sunday, June 21, bringing what organisers describe as the “ultimate coastal foodie weekend” to Carmarthenshire.

The event will be held over the summer solstice weekend, with visitors able to enjoy food, entertainment and activities against the backdrop of Pembrey Country Park and the nearby eight-mile beach.

This year’s event includes a new BBC Horizons live music stage, created

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through a partnership with BBC Wales, showcasing emerging bands and artists from across Wales.

Families will also be able to enjoy the World’s Biggest Bouncy Castle, Attack!

Mexican Wrestling, Chris Bullzini’s high wire show, the Incredibly Clever Canine Circus, a free circus school, craft activities with Let’s Make Art, crazy golf from Kiss My Putt, and Bull Axe Throwing.

There will also be an Indie Collectives market featuring Welsh independent makers and crafts, along with a Big Top

Picnic celebrating local food producers.

As evening falls, the event will move into a more relaxed festival atmosphere, with live music, slower beats and a fire finale from the Pembrokeshire Fire Spinners.

Food will be at the heart of the weekend, with traders including The Dough Thrower, serving 72-hour fermented wood-fired pizzas, Pasta a Mano with handmade pasta from West Wales, Mar y Fuego with seafood cooked over fire, and Mabiko with Zimbabwean and South African dishes.

Other traders include The Queen Pepiada, TNT Tacos, Two Lads Kitchen, Burger Bros, Paletas, Poutine Punks, Churros Hermanos, Drizzle and The

Coffee Shop.

Drinks will be provided by Tiny Rebel, SFC’s Bobo bar, Lola’s Cocktails and The Lemonade Stand.

Street Food Circus founder Matt ‘the Hat’ said: “Pembrey Country Park is our biggest event of the season, and it’s a truly spectacular location.

“We’re bringing the best of Welsh street food and a circus-full of entertainment and activities for kids and big kids alike.

“With an on-site campsite, people don’t have to rush home. You can have a beach stroll in the morning, explore the Feastival and park adventures like the toboggan, miniature railway or dry ski slope by day, and let the music drift you into a warm summer evening. It’s the ultimate summer escape.

“This year we are going all out with more food, more music, and a brandnew live stage.”

He said the event will also include the new Little Kooks Clwb, aimed at children who enjoy food-based activities.

Kids’ tickets are free, while an optional Little Kooks Clwb package includes an activity backpack with challenges, ideas and foodie inspiration to take home.

Summer Feastival runs at Pembrey Country Park from Friday, June 19 to Sunday, June 21.

Opening hours are Friday 4:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 10:00pm, and Sunday 10:00am to 7:00pm.

Tickets start at £9.50, with children admitted free. More information is available at streetfoodcircus.co.uk.

£32.5m boost to help disabled people and those with health conditions into work MORE than 9,000 people across South East Wales are to receive tailored employment support under a £32.5m expansion of the UK Government’s Connect to Work programme.

The funding will support around 9,100 disabled people, people with health conditions, and those facing complex barriers to employment, helping them move into work or closer to the labour market by 2030.

The Department for Work and Pensions said the programme replaces a “one-size-fits-all” approach with intensive, personalised help built around each individual.

Support will be delivered by specialist employment advisers, who will meet people in accessible community settings, including GP surgeries, cafés, parks and community hubs.

The help available will include matching people with suitable jobs, CV writing, interview preparation, direct work with local employers, and continued support once someone has started a role.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “For too long, disabled

people and those with health conditions in South East Wales and across the country were written off and denied the chance to work. This Government is changing that.

“Connect to Work is built on a simple belief: that with the right support, built

around the individual, people can and do get into work.

“Today’s figures prove it. Thousands of people are now closer to working, earning and building better lives, and with South East Wales set to launch its support offer,

this is just the beginning.”

The announcement comes as the first official statistics for Connect to Work show that 14,000 people across England and Wales have already received personalised support through the programme.

The DWP said 2.8 million people are currently out of work due to ill-health, and that Connect to Work forms part of a wider £3.5bn employment support package.

Councillor Peter Bradbury, Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member for Employment and Inclusive Growth, said: “We are delighted that Connect to Work is being introduced across the South East Wales region; this is a significant opportunity to support our residents into sustainable employment while strengthening our local communities and economy.

“Delivery will commence shortly across the region, with further details, including start dates, available on the Cardiff Council website.”

The South East Wales funding follows earlier announcements for Connect to Work in South West Wales, Mid Wales and North Wales.

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Henry Tufnell visits St Davids RNLI lifeboat station HENRY TUFNELL MP has visited St Davids RNLI lifeboat station to hear first-hand about the work of its volunteer crew.

The Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP met crew members at St Justinian, where he was briefed on some of the rescue missions carried out by the station off the Pembrokeshire coast.

Mr Tufnell said the visit had highlighted both the dedication of the lifeboat crew and the pressures facing the service.

He said: “It was a privilege to visit the RNLI St Davids Lifeboat at St Justinian and hear first-hand about some of the remarkable rescue missions the crew have undertaken.

“They do extraordinary work keeping our community safe.”

Mr Tufnell added that crew members had also raised concerns about ongoing challenges, including funding and regulation.

He said: “It was also important to hear about the ongoing challenges they face, particularly regarding funding and regulation.

“As your MP, I will continue to champion and protect the interests of our community heroes in Westminster.”

The RNLI station at St Davids is one of Pembrokeshire’s key coastal rescue bases, serving a busy and often challenging stretch of coastline popular with walkers, kayakers, boat users and visitors.The charity relies on volunteer crews and public support to continue its lifesaving work.

River festival returns to Haverfordwest this weekend A CELEBRATION of the Cleddau will take place in Haverfordwest this weekend as the town’s River Festival returns for a second year.

The event will be held on Saturday (June 13), from 10:00am until late, centred on HaverHub and stretching along the quay towards the Bristol Trader.

Organised by The Cleddau Project, the family-friendly festival will include guided walks, demonstrations, art, science activities, live music, market stalls, free canoe trips and a boat race.

The event aims to celebrate the beauty, wildlife and heritage of the Cleddau, while encouraging more people to make use of the river and riverside area.

Organisers said the weather is looking promising and have invited families to “come on down” and enjoy the day.

Groups involved include West Wales Rivers Trust, Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, Paddle West and Pembrokeshire Marine Wildlife.

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Have your say on well-being in Pembrokeshire

RESIDENTS are being asked to help shape the future of well-being in Pembrokeshire.

Pembrokeshire Public Services Board has launched its third Well-being Assessment and wants to hear from people who live or work in the county.

The assessment looks at what matters most to local communities, including issues affecting people’s quality of life now and in the years ahead.

It is a legal requirement under the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.

The findings will help the Public Services Board decide what action is needed to improve well-being across Pembrokeshire.

The survey opened on Monday (Jun 1) and runs until Saturday, August 8, 2026.

It is being carried out jointly with Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.

Residents can take part online at: https://online1.snapsurveys.com/Wellbeing_Assessment_2026 Photo caption: Have your say: Residents are being asked to help shape future well-being plans in Pembrokeshire.

Duffy set for secret comeback gig after 15 years away from UK stage WELSH singer Duffy is set to make her live UK comeback with a secret London show, more than 15 years after her last concert appearance in Britain.

The Grammy-winning artist, whose real name is Aimee Anne Duffy, revealed the news to fans in an Instagram story, confirming that the intimate performance will take place on July 5.

Duffy wrote: “I’m doing a secret intimate gig in London on the 5th July, next month, and I would love nothing more than for some of you to attend.

“It’s only small capacity so we can only select a few, but really looking forward to it, I will sing some new songs.

“All my love, Duffy x.”

The performance will include new material and marks her first UK live show since December 2010, when she appeared at Capital FM’s Jingle Bell Ball at the O2 Arena in London.

Duffy became one of Wales’ biggest music stars following the release of her debut album Rockferry, which was powered by the hit single Mercy.

The song topped the UK charts for five weeks and helped establish her internationally.

Her second album, Endlessly, followed in 2010, but she later withdrew from public life.

Years later, Duffy revealed that she had been drugged, raped and held captive, explaining her long absence from the music industry.

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Her return to the stage comes shortly after confirmation that she will feature in a new Disney+ documentary, which

will explore her rise to fame, her life in Wales, her career, and the traumatic events that led to her stepping away from the spotlight.

Duffy also has strong links to Pembrokeshire. After her parents divorced, she moved with her mother

and two sisters to Letterston, near Fishguard.

She later attended Sir Thomas Picton School in Haverfordwest, where she completed her GCSEs before returning to North Wales to live with her father.

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Banking review launched as communities invited to share branch closure concerns

A UK GOVERNMENT review into access to face-to-face banking services has begun, with communities, businesses and organisations being urged to submit evidence.

The independent review, chaired by former Which? director and former FCA board member Richard Lloyd OBE, will

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examine the impact of changes to inperson banking services across the UK. It will look at whether branch closures and reduced access to banking services

are causing harm to consumers, communities and businesses, particularly those who rely on face-to-face support.

The Call for Evidence opened today, Monday (Jun 8), and will run for six weeks, closing on July 20.

The evidence gathered will help shape recommendations to the UK Government,

with final recommendations expected in October 2026.

Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Rachel Blake said: “Banking services matter to communities and businesses across the UK – and that includes faceto-face services.

“Whether you are responding as an individual or a business, your experience could shape the recommendations this review makes to Government.

“Where evidence shows people are being left behind, we will act – including through legislation if necessary.”

Richard Lloyd OBE said banking was “an essential service” needed by consumers, communities and businesses.

He said the review wanted to gather “the best possible up-to-date evidence” on the challenges faced by those who need in-person banking.

The review follows concerns across the UK about the loss of local bank branches, leaving many customers dependent on online services, telephone banking or limited alternatives.

The Treasury said the Government would act quickly where evidence showed intervention was needed to protect access to banking services.

Responses should be submitted by July 20 through the online Smart Survey on the review’s GOV.UK page. Those unable to use the survey can email accesstobankingservices@hmtreasury. gov.uk.

Tattoo artist ejects convicted child sex offender from Carmarthen studio She said he told her he had been in prison and admitted he had been found with indecent images of children.

The tattoo artist said she immediately stopped the session and told him to leave the studio.

Convicted in 2019 The man was named online as Gavin Evans, formerly of Glanamman.

Court reports from 2019 show Evans, then a Tesco worker, was jailed after grooming a vulnerable young girl online and admitting child sex offences.

He appeared at Swansea Crown Court on March 29, 2019, where he was sentenced for offences including making indecent images of children.

The case involved a vulnerable young teenager who had been groomed online.

A CARMARTHEN tattoo artist has said she stopped a tattoo session and asked a customer to leave after he allegedly disclosed his previous conviction for child sex offences.

Ffion Emma, who works from Mythical Ink in Queen Street, Carmarthen, posted online that the man had appeared to be “a normal human being” before opening up about his past during the appointment.

Studio stance In her post, Ffion said Evans was “not welcome” at the studio and made

Kicked out of shop: Gavin Evans clear that anyone convicted of similar offences would not be accepted as a customer.

The post attracted a large reaction online, with many people praising her decision to end the appointment.

Some comments went further, calling for violent or humiliating treatment of sex offenders, but The Herald is not repeating those remarks.

Businesses are generally entitled to refuse service, provided the refusal is not based on a protected characteristic under equality law.

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Holy Name pupils celebrate CK’s grant for breakfast club PUPILS at Holy Name Catholic Primary School in Fishguard are celebrating after the school’s Breakfast Club received a generous grant from CK’s Supermarket.

The funding was awarded through CK’s Making a Difference initiative, following nominations from parents.

Staff said the children were delighted to hear the news and are now putting together a wish list for items that could benefit the club.

The school thanked CK’s and the parents who supported the nomination.

A spokesperson said: “Breakfast Club pupils at Holy Name School, Fishguard were delighted to hear the news that, thanks to parent nominations, we were awarded a very generous grant from CK Supermarket as part of their Making a Difference initiative.

“The pupils and staff would like to thank CK’s and the parents that nominated us, and are excitedly thinking about putting together a wish list.”

MPs warn Wales probation service is at risk without urgent investment THE PROBATION SERVICE in Wales is at risk of being overwhelmed unless urgent action is taken to improve staffing, pay and working conditions, MPs have warned.

A new report by the House of Commons Welsh Affairs Committee, titled Jagged Justice: Prisons, Probation and Rehabilitation in Wales, says probation staff are working under “exceptionally challenging circumstances” and have been “stretched to their limit”.

The report, published today, also says there is merit in exploring whether probation and youth justice should be devolved to Wales, so services can be designed more closely around Welsh communities.

The committee found that the Probation Service in Wales manages around 15,300 people at any one time, including those serving community sentences, people released from prison, and prisoners preparing for release.

MPs heard evidence that all six Probation Delivery Units in Wales had been rated either “requires improvement” or “inadequate”, although North Wales was singled out as an example of strong practice.

The report says new tools being piloted in Wales may help reduce pressure on staff, but warns that

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technology alone will not solve the problem.

The committee said: “Probation staff in Wales have been stretched to their limit and without tangible investment in additional officers at a national level, as well as measures to improve retention, the service runs the risk of being overwhelmed in the future.”

MPs have called on the Ministry of Justice to review staffing levels, pay and working conditions as part of its forthcoming strategic review of

probation.

They also said the UK Government should set out clear steps and timelines for deciding whether probation and youth justice should be devolved to the Welsh Government.

Napo, the trade union representing probation and family court staff, welcomed the report.

General Secretary Ian Lawrence said: “It is encouraging to see a Parliamentary Committee recognise issues that Napo has been raising for many years.

“The recommendation to explore the devolution of probation in Wales

reflects our long-held view that services are often most effective when they are designed and delivered closer to the communities they serve.

“We’re also pleased that the committee agrees that probation staff cannot continue to do more with less.

“If governments are serious about reducing reoffending and making greater use of community alternatives to custody, then staffing levels, pay and working conditions must be addressed as a matter of urgency.”

The wider report also raises concerns about overcrowding, rehabilitation, prison healthcare, Welsh women being held in prisons in England, and the impact of the current “jagged edge” between reserved justice powers and devolved services such as health, housing and education.

The committee said justice remains a UK Government responsibility, but many of the services needed to reduce reoffending are run in Wales.

That split, MPs said, makes joined-up rehabilitation harder and strengthens the case for looking again at whether Wales should have more control over parts of the justice system.

Napo said it would continue to press both the UK and Welsh Governments to engage directly with probation staff and unions as discussions over the future of justice services in Wales continue.

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Knife blankets call as school staff face rising violence fears SCHOOL staff should be given access to knife blankets where there is a clear risk of violent incidents involving blades, a union has said, amid growing concern over safety in schools and youth settings.

The call was made at the GMB Congress on Tuesday (Jun 9), where delegates warned that school support staff are increasingly being expected to deal with serious behavioural incidents, safeguarding crises and violent confrontations without proper protective equipment.

The debate will resonate strongly in west Wales, where recent incidents have brought the issue of youth violence into sharp focus.

In February, Milford Haven School was placed into lockdown after a teacher was assaulted during an incident involving a pupil reportedly armed with a bladed article. A 15-year-old boy was later charged with grievous bodily harm and possession of a bladed article on school premises.

The case followed the shocking attack at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford in April 2024, when two teachers and a pupil were stabbed.

A teenage girl was later convicted of attempted murder and sentenced to 15 years in custody.

More recently, four youths aged

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between 13 and 17 suffered stab wounds during violence at Tenby railway station in April. British Transport Police later confirmed a number of arrests in connection with the incident.

GMB said the issue was not about creating fear in schools, but about recognising the reality faced by staff who are often first on the scene when serious incidents unfold.

Jonathan Coles, a GMB delegate, told Congress: “Support staff frequently manage challenging behaviour, respond

to safeguarding crises, and undertake de-escalation work.

“Yet they are expected to do this without appropriate protective equipment.

“That’s why GMB is calling for the establishment of clear national standards requiring all academy trusts, local authorities, and specialist education providers to provide knife blankets wherever risk assessments identify potential exposure.

“Knife blankets, alongside consistent training on their use, offer a practical measure for the protection of education staff.”

Knife blankets are designed to help protect staff from slashes and stab wounds during emergency situations.

The union says they should not be seen as a replacement for prevention, behaviour support, mental health services or proper staffing levels, but as one part of a wider safety plan.

Figures cited by GMB suggest more than 700 knife-related offences were recorded by police in schools in England and Wales last year.

The union is calling for clear national standards, proper training, and risk assessments which reflect the changing nature of violence faced by education staff.

The issue is likely to raise difficult questions for councils, schools and Welsh Government ministers about how far schools should go in preparing for rare but potentially catastrophic incidents.

Supporters of the proposal argue that staff should not be left defenceless when violence erupts.

Others may worry that protective equipment such as knife blankets risks normalising the idea that schools are dangerous places.

But after serious incidents in Milford Haven, Ammanford and Tenby, the debate over how best to protect staff and pupils is unlikely to go away.

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Welsh Water hit with £44.7m enforcement package over sewage failures become “normalised” in Welsh waters.

Campaigners previously claimed Broad Haven alone recorded more than one hundred sewage alerts during 2025, while concerns have repeatedly been raised over the effect of pollution warnings on tourism, wild swimming and public confidence in coastal water quality.

The issue has become particularly sensitive in Pembrokeshire because of the county’s reliance on clean seas and beaches to attract visitors.

Businesses connected to tourism, watersports and hospitality have repeatedly warned that pollution headlines risk damaging the area’s reputation.

Questions over accountability

DŴR Cymru Welsh Water has been hit with a £44.7 million enforcement package after regulators found “serious and unacceptable” failures in the way the company operated parts of its wastewater network, following years of growing anger over sewage pollution in Welsh rivers and coastal waters.

The intervention by Ofwat comes after an investigation found Welsh Water failed to properly operate, maintain and upgrade wastewater treatment works and sewer networks so they could cope with sewage flows, resulting in excessive spills into the environment. Regulators also found shortcomings in internal oversight and processes.

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The £44.7m package – which Welsh Water, not bill payers, will fund – includes more than £40m aimed at reducing sewage spills at storm overflows, tackling groundwater infiltration into sewer systems and improving environmental performance.

A further £4.1m is earmarked for river quality improvements in environmentally sensitive catchments.

Ofwat senior director for enforcement Lynn Parker said the investigation uncovered “serious and unacceptable breaches” in the operation of wastewater assets, adding that the company must now

focus on rebuilding public trust.

Pembrokeshire concerns The announcement is likely to resonate strongly in Pembrokeshire, where concern over sewage discharges and bathing water quality has fuelled public protests and growing frustration among residents, surfers and tourism businesses.

Only weeks ago, campaigners gathered at Broad Haven in a sewage protest organised with support from Surfers Against Sewage, warning that pollution alerts had become too frequent on one of Pembrokeshire’s best-known beaches.

Protesters accused water companies and regulators of allowing pollution to

Welsh Water has often promoted itself as different from privatised water firms because it operates as a not-for-profit company without shareholders.

However, critics argue that status has done little to reassure communities worried about repeated sewage incidents, environmental damage and executive pay.

The enforcement package follows a wider Ofwat investigation into wastewater failings across the sector, with the regulator saying penalties and redress packages against water firms have now exceeded £300m.

Welsh Water has previously apologised for failings identified during the investigation and said the package agreed with Ofwat would support environmental improvements and measures to reduce spills.

Political reaction David Chadwick MP, the Welsh Liberal Democrats’ Westminster spokesperson, said the findings confirmed what many communities had believed for years.

He said: “These findings confirm what communities across Wales have known for years: Welsh Water has been failing to do its job while rivers, streams and coastlines have paid the price.

“People will be rightly furious that it has taken intervention from Ofwat and a £44.7 million enforcement package to force action on failings that should have been addressed years ago.”

He added that despite Welsh Water’s not-for-profit model, serious wastewater failings had still taken place and called for stronger regulation and enforcement.

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Wales facing worsening mental health crisis as financial hardship bites MORE than 720,000 adults in Wales are now living with poor mental health, according to a major new report which warns the nation continues to record the highest levels of psychological distress in the UK. New analysis released by the Mental Health Foundation on Wednesday (June 10) found that an additional 278,000 adults in Wales are experiencing poor mental health compared to 2009.

The findings show that by 2024, more than one in four adults in Wales (27.3%) were affected – around 720,000 people – placing Wales 2.7 percentage points above the UK average of 24.6%.

The charity said worsening financial insecurity, poverty, austerity measures and the long-term effects of the Covid pandemic are continuing to hit Welsh communities hard.

A report based on 15 years of data from 40,000 people across the UK found Wales has reported higher levels of poor mental health than the UK average in 13 of the last 15 years.

Researchers said the situation worsened significantly after the pandemic, with Wales reaching a peak of 28% in 2022/23 – 5.2 percentage

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points above the UK average at the time.

Although figures have fallen slightly since then, Wales continues to record the highest levels of poor mental health in Britain.

The Mental Health Foundation said poverty remains a major factor, with around one in five people in Wales living in poverty over the last

two decades.

It warned that more than half of those affected are now living in “very deep poverty”, leading to chronic stress, financial hardship and greater mental health difficulties.

Catherine Razzell, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at the Mental Health Foundation, said the findings reveal a “worrying and consistent pattern” in Wales.

“Whilst figures show the levels of poor mental health in other UK

nations have tracked together, Wales has diverged from the rest of the UK – this is deeply concerning,” she said.

“Things need to change in order to protect the people of Wales from poor mental health and for the next generation. This is not just on an individual basis, but at a systemic level.”

The charity welcomed the Welsh Government’s planned pilot of the new Welsh Child Payment, known as Cynnal, and said prevention-focused policies would be key to improving outcomes.

However, it said progress would require cooperation between Cardiff Bay and Westminster due to the range of economic and social policies affecting mental wellbeing.

The report, titled The state of mental health, analysed data collected between 2009 and 2024 using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12), a recognised measure used to identify likely mental health disorders across populations.

The Welsh Government has previously pledged to improve mental health support through its crossgovernment Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for Wales covering 2025 to 2035.

Plans for Ireland-UK fibreoptic cables to be connected at Pembrokeshire PLANS by a Vodafone phone company subsidiary to bring fibreoptic cables across the sea from Ireland to a Pembrokeshire seaside beach village in order to improve broadband coverage have been lodged.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Apollo Submarine Cable Systems limited, through agent APEM Group, seeks permission for the construction of four underground telecom chambers and interconnecting ducts, along with Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) underneath Brandy Brook, Newgale, and the construction of one HDD bore-to-sea outfall.

A supporting statement accompanying the application says the scheme would form the onshore part of a project to bring a fibreoptic cable onshore from Kilmore Quay, Wexford, Ireland to a site at Newsurf Shop car park, Sands Café Car Park and Duke of Edinburgh Inn, Newgale.

It says the majority of the project is subterranean, with very minor above ground works are proposed, which comprise the installation of a manhole cover.

It adds: “To facilitate improved internet connectivity, the applicant is proposing the installation of a fibreoptic telecoms cable (the Beaufort cable)

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from Kilmore Quay, Wexford, Ireland to Newgale.

“The project is to facilitate the installation of the Beaufort cable, as it comes ashore in Wales and to link it into the wider network, which will be operated by Vodafone’s whollyowned subsidiary Apollo Cable System Limited in the UK.” It says the project would see three

underground telecom chambers and a 120-metre interconnecting duct, the 87-metre HDD underneath Brandy Brook, launching from the receiver pit located within the Site, along with the construction of one HDD bore-to-sea outfall, in a subtidal area of Newgale bay, of approximately 920 metres, and one underground telecom chamber and interconnecting duct.

Citing a report on digital connectivity, it says 5G geographic coverage has seen improvements but is still relatively

low at 57 per cent of Wales’ landmass, with 4G the primary service.

That report says there is a difference in full fibre coverage between urban and rural areas (83 per cent versus 59 per cent) and highlighting a need for further coverage.

On the scheme itself, the statement says short-term noise and disruption to local residents “is anticipated during the construction phase however this will be limited to 57 days,” adding: “The proposed drilling operations are not to be continuous and will be limited to approximately 20 minutes in each hour,” the works in total expected to last 91 days after which land will return to its former use without restrictions.

It goes on to say: “The HDD is specifically designed to mitigate the risk of any shoreward movement of the shingle bank and beach level changes.

The use of HDD reduces the likelihood of potential environmental impact on the landscape and seascape.

“The project is not anticipated to interact with Brandy Brook. All drilling works will take place within excavated launch pits and all construction works will be confined to the hardstanding of the car park.”

The application will be considered

by Park planners at a later date.

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Cardigan RNLI to host sea shanty and street food festival CARDIGAN RNLI is inviting the community to enjoy an evening of music, food and fundraising at its fourth annual Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival.

The event will take place at Cardigan RNLI Lifeboat Station on Saturday, June 20, from 3:00pm to 9:00pm.

Organisers say the familyfriendly festival will feature live music throughout the afternoon and evening, with performances from Cariad Sound, The Bad Latitudes Shanty Group, Howni Shanty Group and Blaenporth Male Voice Choir.

A wide range of food and drink will also be available from local vendors, including Manuka Asian Street Food, Dewi James BBQ, Pembrokeshire Wood Fired Pizza, Ice Green Vegan Ice Cream, Los Muñecos Mexican Street Food, Bluestones Coffee, Mantle Brewery and Cream Tea. Tickets cost £5, with all proceeds going towards supporting Cardigan RNLI’s lifesaving work.

Bruce Harris, event organiser said: “Our Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival is a fantastic way to bring the community together while supporting the RNLI’s lifesaving work.

“There’s something for everyone,

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great music, brilliant local food and a

wonderful atmosphere by the water.

“Every ticket sold helps our volunteer crew continue to save lives at sea, so we’re really looking

forward to welcoming as many people as possible for a great evening in support of Cardigan Lifeboat Station.”

Wales tops Britain for recognising alcohol as addictive

NEW figures suggest people in Wales are more likely than anywhere else in Britain to recognise that alcohol can be

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addictive.

A YouGov survey found that 86% of respondents in Wales described alcohol as addictive, compared with 78% across Britain.

The figure was higher than Scotland at 83%, the North and Midlands at 81%, the South at 77%, and London at 69%.

Health experts said the findings showed strong public awareness in Wales, but warned that knowledge alone may not prevent risky drinking, particularly during the summer months.

Dr Karen Faulkner, Associate Medical Director at Panthera Clinic, said alcohol remained deeply embedded in British social life.

She said: “Alcohol occupies a unique place in British culture because it is both legal and socially encouraged, which can make it difficult for people to recognise when their relationship with drinking is beginning to change.

“What’s particularly interesting is that most people understand alcohol can be addictive, yet many still underestimate how easily regular drinking can become habitual.”

The NHS advises adults not to

drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week on a regular basis, spread over three or more days, with alcohol-free days included.

Dr Faulkner said summer events, holidays, festivals, barbecues, pub gardens and sporting occasions could make drinking feel more routine.

She added: “Dependence often develops gradually and doesn’t always fit the stereotypes people associate with addiction.

“The challenge isn’t necessarily a lack of awareness about alcohol’s risks. It’s recognising when a socially accepted habit has crossed the line into something that’s beginning to have a negative impact on your health, wellbeing or daily life.”

People trying to cut back are advised to plan alcohol-free days, alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks, set limits before social events, try low or no-alcohol alternatives, and keep track of weekly intake.

Support is available in Wales through DAN 24/7, the Wales Drug and Alcohol Helpline, on 0808 808 2234.

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Planners reject farm’s sheep milk gin distillery expansion

A CALL to keep a building which would partly be used a distillery at a Pembrokeshire farm which produces award-winning sheep milk-infused gin has been turned down by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Steven and Julie Ayers of Fifth Flock Spirits Ltd through agent Johnston Planning Ltd sought permission for the retention of a replacement building for farm diversification purposes incorporating a gin distillery with associated function/tasting room, reception area for farm businesses, including the distillery, a kennels and caravan site, along with offices and associated storage facilities at Nash Mountain Farm, Sardis.

Two previous similar 2024 and 2025 applications have been refused, the latest scheme removing some previous elements.

A supporting statement said the building would be used for farm diversification purposes for a number of established rural enterprises on the holding “but primarily in connection with Fifth Flock Spirits Ltd, a family run drinks company specializing in gin infused with milk derived from the resident flock at Nash Mountain”.

It said the 2023-erected building had replaced an earlier long-standing dilapidated farm building on the site, and is intended to play host to the three established farm enterprises which are run in conjunction with the

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main agricultural operation: Nash Mountain Kennels, Nash Mountain Caravan and Camping Site and primarily Fifth Flock Ltd. It said internal works had yet to be completed, and, in addition to the retention of the building, the application also seeks permission for some external works which have not yet been carried out.

The statement said the Ayers family has farmed at 26ha Nash Mountain, which has a flock of 168 East Friesian sheep, for some five generations, the limited acreage meaning “the agricultural mainstay is not sufficient to sustain a viable business,” leading to the farm diversifications, with Fifth Flock the latest.

It said, in addition to the main farming operation, Nash Mountain also gains income from an onsite wind turbine, a caravan site, a boarding kennels with cattery, and Fifth Flock Ltd. On the gin side, the statement says: “Fifth Flock Spirits Ltd Fifth Flock has operated from Nash Mountain since August 2025. It is at core currently a drinks enterprise based on the production of gin and rum infused with sheep’s milk, however, as set out in the accompanying business plan, the intention is to expand the offer into other sheep-based products to

capitalise on the home flock.

“Since launching the enterprise has exceeded expectations with strong demand and accolades including A Taste of Pembrokeshire Award at the Pembrokeshire Food and Farming Awards in December 2025.

“Firth Flock currently source their gin from an independent distillery in Gorgeddan, Ceredigion however

the intention, as reflected in this submission, is to develop the distilling element on-site and include it as part of an immersive visitor experience focussing on the home flock.

“Firth Flock has rapidly become a cornerstone of the enterprise at Nash Mountain and whilst the building at the centre of this proposal may have been premature there is a strong case for its retention as part of the overall rural enterprise on the holding.”

It adds that the Ayers are actively exploring diversification into other wool and sheep-based products.

The application was refused on the grounds including it was not demonstrated a countyside location was needed and there was not “sufficient evidence of a genuine and established rural enterprise necessitating the development,” adding: “In particular, the primary distilling process does not currently take place at the site and instead relies on off-site production, with only a future aspiration to relocate such activities.

“As a result, the proposal represents a speculative form of development that lacks a clear and direct functional link to the agricultural holding.”

It went on to say the scale of the proposals “introduces a level of intensity and built form more akin to a standalone commercial or tourism enterprise, rather than a modest farm diversification scheme”.

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Welsh legal and housing charities share in £3.9m consumer justice funding WELSH legal and housing advice charities are to receive funding from a £3.9 million grants programme using unclaimed money from a major class action case.

The Access to Justice Foundation has announced the recipients of its Improving Lives Through Advice 2026 programme, which will support 16 organisations across the UK over three years.

The money comes from unclaimed settlement funds from the Gutmann v SW Trains case, also known as the Boundary Fare class action.

In Wales, the organisations named include Citizens Advice Caerphilly Blaenau Gwent, Cyngor ar Bopeth Powys Citizens Advice, Speakeasy Law Centre, also known as South Wales Law Centre, and Shelter Cymru.

The foundation said the funding is being directed to areas where class members were based and where access to free legal advice is most needed.

Although no Pembrokeshire

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organisation is named directly, the funding is likely to support services used by people across Wales, including those facing housing problems, debt, benefits issues, consumer disputes and difficulties accessing legal advice.

Clare Carter, chief executive of the Access to Justice Foundation, said: “Unclaimed funds from collective actions represent a significant opportunity to strengthen access to justice.

“These organisations are the first point of call for people to understand and enforce their rights. This grant round will ensure that the outcomes of collective actions are felt by consumers across the UK.” The foundation said the programme had been heavily oversubscribed, with 315 applications seeking more than £70 million in support.

It said the level of demand showed the pressure facing free legal advice services, with many charities now

acting as the first and only place people can turn when trying to enforce their rights.

The Access to Justice Foundation said more than two thirds of adults in England and Wales face a legal

problem each year, while more than 11 million people do not get help to resolve their legal issues.

The grants programme is the first in the UK to redistribute unclaimed class action money in this way.

Voices at the Castle to bring picnic-style day of music to Pembroke

A CHARITY music event will take place at Pembroke Castle this month, offering visitors a picnicstyle day of live entertainment in historic surroundings.

Voices at the Castle, presented

by Paul Sartori Hospice at Home and Pembroke Castle, will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Organisers are encouraging people to bring chairs, blankets and picnics for the event, which promises a relaxed outdoor setting inside one of Pembrokeshire’s most recognisable landmarks.

Visitors are asked not to bring tents or gazebos. Sealed fizzy drinks may be brought, but alcohol is not permitted as there will be a charity bar on site. Additional food options will also be available.

The event is expected to raise funds and awareness for Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, which provides end-of-life care and support for people across Pembrokeshire.

Tickets and booking information are available through the Pembroke Castle events page at www. pembrokecastle.co.uk/events/

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West Wales trainer offers free first aid talks to community groups A CARMARTHENSHIRE-based training company is offering free first aid awareness talks to community groups across West Wales.

Pinnacle Workforce Training Ltd, founded by trainer and health and social care professional Andrew James-Deakin, is inviting organisations including Women’s Institutes, U3A groups, Rotary Clubs, Probus Clubs, churches, charities and community groups to book an interactive presentation.

The session, titled Could You Save a Life? Practical First Aid for Everyday Emergencies, covers CPR awareness, defibrillator use, choking, stroke recognition, heart attack awareness, burns and scalds, falls, seizures and anaphylaxis.

Andrew, who has more than 25 years’ experience in training, assessment, quality assurance, leadership and health and social care, said: “Many people worry that they would not know what to do if someone collapsed, suffered a stroke, had a heart attack or started choking.

“These talks are designed to give people confidence and practical knowledge that could make a real difference while waiting for professional help to arrive.”

The sessions are designed to be informative, engaging and interactive, giving participants practical knowledge that could help them support family members, friends,

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colleagues or members of the public during an emergency.

As part of a community introduction programme, Pinnacle Workforce Training Ltd is currently offering the talks free of charge.

Organisations within 20 miles of Llanelli can book a session at no cost,

while groups further afield are only asked to cover travel expenses.

Andrew added: “One of the aims of Pinnacle Workforce Training is to support local communities by making valuable skills and knowledge accessible to as many people as possible.

“If even one person leaves a session feeling more confident to help in an emergency, it will have been

worthwhile.”

Community organisations interested in arranging a talk can contact Andrew James-Deakin on 07364 138827 or email andrew@ pinnacleworkforcetrainingltd.com.

Andrew James-Deakin: Director of Pinnacle Workforce Training Ltd, pictured on the River Towy footbridge in Carmarthen (Pic: Supplied).

Landlords reminded of Welsh Government leasing scheme LANDLORDS in Pembrokeshire are being reminded that a Welsh Government-backed leasing scheme remains available for those looking for a secure way to rent out their properties.

Leasing Scheme Wales Pembrokeshire allows landlords to lease properties to Pembrokeshire County Council for between five and 20 years, with guaranteed rental payments throughout the lease period.

The scheme is designed to increase access to affordable private rented homes, provide longer-term security for tenants, and give landlords greater confidence and support.

It also aims to improve housing standards and help reduce homelessness across the county.

Landlords taking part can receive guaranteed rent at Local Housing Allowance rates, support with tenant management, and protection through lease agreements covering tenant-

related damage, excluding fair wear and tear.

Financial support may also be available. This includes grants of up to £5,000 to improve property standards or energy efficiency, and up to £25,000

to help bring empty properties back into use. Additional retrofit funding may also be accessible.

Pembrokeshire County Council is encouraging landlords to consider the scheme as a reliable, low-risk way to

let their property.

Landlords can express interest through the online form or contact the Private Rented Sector team by emailing PRleasingscheme@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk.

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Bird of Prey Centre secures £154,000 investment

A NEW visitor attraction in Carmarthenshire has been backed by a £154,000 investment from the Development Bank of Wales.

The British Bird of Prey Centre, the UK’s only native bird of prey attraction, has used the funding to support its move from the National Botanic Garden of Wales to a purpose-built centre at a former equestrian site in Idole.

The investment, made through the Wales Tourism Investment Fund, has provided working capital during the redevelopment and helped create eight full-time jobs.

The new centre includes 20 aviaries, an indoor all-weather flying arena, a café, retail space, an interactive hub, parking and associated groundworks.

Visitors can see daily flying displays, with every bird on site flying free in the indoor arena. The centre also offers close-up experiences with British birds of prey.

The attraction has been designed to operate year-round and to be accessible to a wide range of visitors, including those with special educational needs, dementia, and hearing or visual impairments.

Future plans include soft play facilities, camping and glamping accommodation, and developing the centre as a wedding venue.

Emma Hill, Director at the British Bird of Prey Centre, said: “As a tourism business, high-street banks didn’t have the appetite to invest in us at the point we were looking to grow.

“The support from the Development Bank gave us the investment we needed to move forward and establish

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a centre that really reflects who we are.

“Moving has allowed us to develop our own identity as a visitor attraction, while continuing to deliver high-quality experiences every day.

“The new centre gives us the space and facilities to grow, welcome more visitors and play a stronger role in the local tourism economy.”

Donna Williams, Senior Portfolio Executive at the Development Bank of Wales, said: “The British Bird of Prey Centre is an excellent example

of a tourism business with a distinctive offer and clear growth plans.

“This investment has supported the creation of a high-quality visitor attraction that will draw people into the area, support local supply chains and create well-paid jobs.”

Milford Haven to launch Inaugural Harbour Festival this June MILFORD WATERFRONT is set to welcome visitors to its first-ever Harbour Fest on June 27, with a daylong celebration of the area’s rich maritime heritage, local businesses and coastal community.

The free festival, running from 10am to 6pm, will transform the waterfront into a vibrant hub of activity, featuring live music, entertainment, food and family-friendly attractions.

Organisers say the event aims to showcase the unique character of Milford Haven while celebrating the start of the summer season.

Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of heritage and maritime-themed activities alongside contributions from many of Milford Waterfront’s independent businesses.

Chocolatiers, artisan makers, galleries, museums and a range of attractions both on and off the

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water will take part in the festivities, highlighting the diversity of the destination.

Harbour Fest is expected to draw residents and tourists alike, offering an opportunity to explore the waterfront, support local businesses and experience the area’s strong connection to the sea.

For those wishing to make a weekend of the event, Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront is offering accommodation overlooking the marina. Bed and breakfast stays start from £108 per night for two people sharing, while family rooms for four are available from £193 per night.

Further information about Harbour Fest can be found at Milford Waterfront’s website.

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Milford Haven Sea Cadets celebrate offshore voyage success

SIX CADETS from Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets have completed a challenging week-long offshore voyage aboard T.S. John Jerwood.

The cadets took to the water for a demanding but enjoyable week, gaining a number of qualifications despite difficult weather conditions.

The unit congratulated all six cadets on their achievements and thanked the Sea Cadet Offshore team for making the voyage possible.

A spokesperson said: “Voyages like this are only made possible by the brilliant Sea Cadet Offshore team.

Thank you for the amazing work you do to allow this amazing opportunity to be possible.

“BZ all!”

The Milford Haven unit also thanked West Wales District Sea Cadets, South West Area Sea Cadets, Sea Cadets Offshore, South West Area Senior Staff Officer, and RFCA for Wales for their support.

Bishop opens Little Lions Flying Start setting at St Mark’s school

A few words for the grand opening: Bishop Dorrien EARLY years education in Haverfordwest has received a boost after Bishop Dorrien officially opened a new Flying Start setting at St Mark’s Church in Wales VC School.

The Bishop of St Davids cut the ribbon at the school in Merlins Bridge last week to formally launch the Little Lions Flying Start provision, which will support younger children and families in the area.

The new setting will provide funded

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early years childcare for eligible children from the age of two, with youngsters benefiting from dedicated facilities and support from trained staff.

Flying Start is a Welsh Governmentfunded programme aimed at giving children the best possible start in life through childcare, health visiting, parenting support and speech and

language development.

Eligible children can receive up to 12.5 hours of funded childcare a week during term time.

Little Lions is based at St Mark’s VA School in Haverfordwest and welcomes children from the age of two.

The setting is part of Pembrokeshire’s wider Flying Start programme, which has expanded in recent years to support more families across the county.

During the visit, Bishop Dorrien praised the work being carried out

at the school and the commitment shown by staff and families.

The Diocese of St Davids said the Bishop greatly appreciated the leadership of Mrs Gillespie, while recognising the dedication of staff, parents, carers and governors in helping children to thrive.

A spokesperson said the school had “a real school family” atmosphere, adding that Bishop Dorrien keeps all schools in the diocese in his prayers and asks for God’s blessing on pupils, staff and families.

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Tenby 10k raises more than £20,000 for Paul Sartori A POPULAR Tenby road race has raised more than £20,000 for Paul Sartori Hospice at Home.

Runners and sponsors taking part in last year’s Tenby 10k raised £20,559.07 for the Pembrokeshire charity, which provides hospice care to people in their own homes.

The race, organised by Waterfront Community Runners, took place in October 2025 and was well supported by locals and visitors, who lined the route through the town to cheer on competitors.

Laura Hugman, Chief Executive of Paul Sartori, has now received the cheque, presented by a selection of those who took part in the event.

This year’s Tenby 10k will take place on Sunday, October 25, 2026, on a closed-road, two-lap course through the centre of Tenby.

More than 400 runners have already signed up, with entries now past 40 per cent capacity and organisers expecting the event to sell out again.

Anyone wishing to take part can enter at www.waterfrontcommunityrunners. co.uk.

All proceeds from this year’s race will again be donated to the Paul Sartori Foundation.

Tenby station works to bring five overnight road closures

FIVE overnight road closures are to take place in Tenby as major work continues on the town’s £8.3m railway station upgrade.

Station Road will be closed overnight to allow heavy machinery and bridge steelwork to be delivered for the Access for All scheme at Tenby railway station.

The project, being delivered

by Network Rail with contractor AmcoGiffen, will provide step-free access to both platforms through a new footbridge and lifts.

Work began earlier this year, with the old footbridge removed in March using 220-tonne and 60-tonne cranes. A temporary walkway was installed so passengers could continue moving between platforms while the new structure is built.

Network Rail said the scheme is now at the stage where permanent foundation works are being completed on the platform, ahead of bridge steelwork being installed from July 4.

Network Rail spokesperson said: “The scheme will provide step-free access to both platforms via a new footbridge and lifts, making it easier for disabled passengers, as well as those travelling with pushchairs or heavy luggage, to move around the station independently.

“To maintain the safety of both the public and our teams, Network Rail

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have worked closely with the local authority to implement a road closure while the steelwork and cranes are delivered and installed.”

Pembrokeshire County Council said Station Road will close from its junction with Warren Street south to its junction with Park Place.

The closure will be in place on Tuesday, June 30, from 9:00pm to 5:00am, and again from Saturday, July 4, for five nights between 9:00pm and 5:00am.

The council said the restriction is needed “to facilitate abnormal load movements in conjunction with the installation of the pedestrian bridge at Tenby Train Station.”

A signed diversion will be in

place, with the route depending on the direction of travel.

Traffic management operatives will be on site throughout the works, and the one-way order affecting Harding Street will be temporarily suspended to allow limited twoway access to properties where practicable.

The station upgrade is expected to be completed this autumn.

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Carers charity marks Carers Week with call for stronger support

A WEST WALES carers charity has marked Carers Week 2026 by calling for stronger, more inclusive communities for unpaid carers across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales said this year’s Carers Week theme, “building carer-friendly communities”, highlights the need for carers to be better understood, valued and supported.

The charity said small changes could make a major difference, including employers offering greater flexibility to staff with caring responsibilities, and

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GPs and pharmacies doing more to identify and support unpaid carers.

SUPPORTING LOCAL CARERS During Carers Week, the organisation has delivered a range of activities across West Wales, including a guided walk at the National Botanic Garden of Wales, a beach barbecue, wellbeing walks at Dinefwr Castle, pamper days, Money MOTs and other support sessions.

The activities were aimed at giving unpaid carers a chance to take a break, meet others in similar circumstances, and find out more about the support available locally.

One local carer support service said: “We need carer-friendly communities to support carers, help them understand that they are cared for themselves, and ensure they feel part of the world around them.”

‘CARERS ARE NOT ALONE’ Andrew Fewtrell Smith, Carer Support Services Manager at Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales, said:

“Unpaid carers are at the heart of our communities, often providing vital care and support without recognition or adequate support themselves.

“During Carers Week, we want to celebrate their contribution, raise awareness of the challenges they face, and remind carers that they are not alone.

“At Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales, we are committed to building more carer-friendly communities across West Wales, where carers of all ages feel valued, listened to and able to access the support, understanding and opportunities they need.”

Alexandra Roberts, Director of Network and Innovation at Carers Trust, said local organisations were making a real difference to carers’ lives every day.

She said: “From creating safe spaces to connect, to offering practical advice and essential support, the work of local carer organisations shows what’s possible when communities come together.

“Building carer-friendly communities starts with action and investment at a local level, and it’s inspiring to see our movement of local partners leading the way during this year’s Carers Week.”

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales is part of a network of more than 130 local support centres for carers across England, Scotland and Wales.

Carew Castle volunteers honoured with invitation to King’s Garden Party longer, employment Volunteer group attended one of this supporting

A GROUP of volunteers who have spent the past five years helping to care for one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic sites have been honoured with an invitation to Buckingham Palace.

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Five members of Carew Castle’s Grounds and Site Maintenance

year’s King’s Garden Parties in early May, after the group was nominated in recognition of its outstanding voluntary work.

David Clarke, Helen Clarke, Chris Williams, Lorna Alexander and Claire Phillips represented the nine-strong volunteer group at the Garden Party, which was attended by members of the Royal Family including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

The group gives one day each week to Carew Castle, helping to look after the Scheduled Ancient Monument, its grounds and the associated Tidal Mill, Over the past five years, their work has ranged from conservation and biodiversity projects to improving public access, refurbishing historic milling equipment and supporting the wider care of the Castle’s historic landscape.

This work has helped extend the visitor season at Carew, bringing more people to the site outside the traditional summer months and

opportunities in a seasonal tourism setting.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, said: “Our wonderful volunteers turn up week after week in all weathers, giving their time, skills and energy to help care for a place that means so much to Pembrokeshire.

“So much of what they do happens quietly, behind the scenes, but visitors see the results everywhere, from the grounds and access improvements to the events and seasonal programmes that bring the Castle to life.

“We were thrilled that members of the group were invited to Buckingham Palace. It was a very special recognition of their dedication, and richly deserved.”

The King’s Garden Parties are held each year to recognise people who have made significant contributions to public service, community life and voluntary work.

Further information about visiting Carew Castle and its summer events programme can be found at www. carewcastle.com.

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Nearly 100 attend Big Green Service at St Davids Cathedral

NEARLY 100 people gathered at St Davids Cathedral for the Big Green Service, a celebration of faith, community action and care for the natural world.

The service brought together

worshippers, local churches and chapels, members of the Cathedral congregation, and visitors from across the world.

Those taking part included EcoDewi, Erw Dewi, Hope Worship

Band, the Cathedral Choristers, Canon Sheridan, Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, Mamgu Welshcakes, the refreshments team, Cathedral staff and volunteers.

Visitors also attended from

California, Philadelphia, Belgium, Malaysia and Patagonia.

Organisers said the event was a reminder to be grateful for the planet and to continue working together to protect it for future generations.

Electricity network upgrades across Pembrokeshire NATIONAL Grid Electricity Distribution runs the local electricity network in Pembrokeshire and is strengthening it to support how people live and work now and in the future.

Demand for electricity in Pembrokeshire is increasing rapidly, particularly as more people switch to electric cars and heat pumps, and more clean, home-grown generation comes online.

Henry Tufnell MP met with engineers in Milford Haven to see how these upgrades are increasing capacity for local communities.

Henry Tufnell MP said: “It was great to visit the site in Milford Haven and see first-hand the work being carried out to strengthen the local electricity network.

“Investment like this is important for supporting communities and businesses across Pembrokeshire and making sure the area is ready for future growth and cleaner energy.”

Steffan Jones, Operations Manager of West Wales Major Projects at National Grid Electricity Distribution,

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said: “Demand is growing as people use more power in their everyday lives

at home and at work.

“We are upgrading our network across Pembrokeshire to support local communities, enable new connections and power future growth.”

The upgrades will help provide more

capacity for local communities, making it easier to connect new homes, support businesses and enable technologies such as electric vehicles, heat pumps and solar energy.

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Expansion of facilities at awardwinning Cresselly Arms approved

PLANS to expand facilities at a popular beauty spot award-winning Pembrokeshire pub, in part using a former public toilet, have been approved.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Lloyd James C/O Owen & Owen Ltd for Cresselly Estate, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, sought permission to upgrade an existing food outlet with the conversion and extension of a former public toilet block to a bespoke kitchen, store and staff toilet, new covered seating area and external bar container unit and associated works, at The Cresselly Arms, Cresswell Quay.

The Grade-II-listed Cresselly Arms originated as an 18th-century dwelling and was a public house by at least the mid-19th century.

In more recent years, the pub under landlord Steve Adams won the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) pub of the year award for the whole of Wales in 2024, having previously been named the best in Pembrokeshire.

A supporting statement said the former toilet block closed some two years ago and is now in the applicant’s ownership, having previously been leased by the county council; the toilet closing after fears of a leaking ‘sealed’ cesspit.

It says nearby listed building the Cresselly Arms “has been purveying a variety of drinks for over 200 years together with a limited range of snacks,” adding: “Whilst the number of customers will have varied over the years, at times when the local Hunt meets at the Cresselly Arms large crowds and their vehicles congregate in the area.”

It went on to say: “Over recent years the Inn has stationed mobile units associated with the preparation and enjoyment of food within its curtilage and this proposal is to improve the quality of the presentation of food and refreshments, including making use of

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the redundant toilet block to the north.”

It added: “Whilst the proposal would introduce new uses onto the site it is considered that these activities are ancillary to the operation of the long established Cresselly Arms and for the most part take place within the curtilage of the inn.”

The application was supported by local community council Jeffreyston, but it noted concerns regarding parking arrangements and the potential for increased vehicle movements, with one member for the public raising concerns about “fast food outlets in a historical area of natural beauty”.

An officer report recommending approval said: “Revisions to some detailed elements of the scheme have been received during the course of the application. The amended proposal is considered to represent a sympathetic enhancement of an established hospitality business which supports the visitor economy whilst respecting the historic character and appearance of Cresswell Quay.”

It said the pub had historically seen temporary barbecue and catering facilities occupying the quay area, the proposal seeking to “rationalise and formalise these activities within the established ancillary yard associated with the Cresselly Arms,” adding: “In heritage and placemaking terms this is considered a positive outcome.”

It went on to say, on highways issues, the proposal sought to improve facilities rather “than significantly expand its capacity or introduce a new use,” and was not considered it would “generate a level of traffic that would result in a severe impact on the local highway network or existing parking arrangements.”

The application was conditionally approved by park planners.

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Older adults in Wales defy ageing stereotypes as activity levels rise OLDER adults in Wales are becoming more active, with new figures suggesting more people over 55 are embracing walking, strength training and regular exercise to stay independent for longer.

Analysis of national physical activity data by Foxholes Care Home found that 64.3% of adults aged 55 to 74 now meet recommended activity guidelines, up from 59.8% five years ago.

Among those aged 75 and over, the figure has risen from 37.6% in 2019-20 to 44.3% in 2024-25.

The findings come as Wales continues to have an ageing population. People aged 65 and over now account for more than one in five of the population, while Wales also has one of the oldest age profiles in the UK. Strength training The data also suggests that more older adults are taking up musclestrengthening exercise.

The proportion of over-55s completing two or more strength sessions a week has increased from 38% in 2019-20 to 41% in 2024-25.

Walking remains the most popular form of exercise, with experts encouraging older people to make use of Wales’ parks, coastal paths and green spaces to support mobility, confidence and wellbeing.

Simple steps

However, the figures also show that many older people are still not active enough. Around 42% of adults aged 55 and over remain physically inactive, compared with 29% of the wider adult population.

Neil Gandecha, older adults exercise specialist at Foxholes Care Home said: “There is a persistent stereotype that strength training is only for younger people, but the data tells a very different story.

“Building strength becomes increasingly important with age because it supports balance, posture and independence. It can make everyday tasks such as climbing stairs, carrying shopping and getting in and out of a chair much easier.

African tree planting scheme must be scrapped, says RT Davies

A CONSERVATIVE Senedd Member has condemned the Welsh Government’s decision to continue funding a tree-planting programme in Africa.

Andrew RT Davies, Member of the Senedd for Bridgend and the Vale of Glamorgan, said the Mbale Tree Planting Programme should be scrapped, arguing that public money should instead be spent on services in Wales.

The scheme began under the previous Labour administration, with Plaid Cymru’s support.

In a written response to Mr Davies, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth confirmed that the 2026-27 Welsh Government

budget includes £350,000 for the programme.

Mr Davies said: “Plaid Cymru separatists’ decision to continue funding tree planting in Africa shows nothing has changed.

“Taxpayers’ money should be spent fixing our broken public services, not vanity projects for Plaid’s progressive activists.

“The Mbale Tree Planting Programme must be scrapped.”

The First Minister said the funding had been agreed by the Senedd on January 27, 2026, and had been committed by the previous government.

“Across Wales, there are many opportunities for older adults to stay active, whether that’s walking locally, spending time outdoors, attending community exercise classes or taking part in adapted strength training.

“Mobility challenges should not prevent anyone from enjoying the benefits of exercise. Adapted strength training can be highly effective for people who use walking aids, rollators and wheelchairs.”

Mr Gandecha said staying active did not have to mean long walks or intense exercise.

He advised older adults to start small, such as taking a short trip to the garden, a local park, the seafront or town centre.

He said routes with flat paths, benches, shade and accessible toilets could help people feel more confident when going outdoors.

He also encouraged people to use mobility aids without embarrassment, stay hydrated, avoid the hottest part of the day, wear sun protection and take a friend, family member or carer when needed.

Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility can also benefit from seated stretches and resistance-band exercises in the garden or park.

Mr Gandecha added: “Being active looks different for everyone.

“Whether you take a walk with a rollator, use a wheelchair to explore your local park, or simply sit in the sunshine and do a few gentle stretches, spending time outdoors can have a meaningful impact on health and wellbeing.”

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Young Badgers praised after helping injured grandad First Aid Badger module with their local Badger Sett and quickly put what they had learned into practice.

They stayed calm, called their dad to explain what had happened, remained with their grandad, and made sure the door was unlocked so help could get into the house.

Calm response

TWO YOUNG St John Ambulance Cymru Badgers have been praised for using their first aid skills after their grandad suffered a head injury at home.

Menna and Bronwen Laurence-Elias, who are members of the Carmarthen

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Division, were being looked after by their grandad when he had a small fall and cut his head.

The girls had recently completed a

Their parents, Daniel Elias and Jemma Laurence, both work in healthcare and are also St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers. They had taught the children to call them if there was a problem, and to only ring 999 in an emergency.

Daniel said: “They both stayed really calm, rang me and were completely calm telling me what had happened.

“Bronwen said Menna was putting pressure on the cut and had even unlocked the door for me before I got there.

“I gave the cut a quick clean and applied some steri-strips with Menna’s help, whilst Bronwen instructed me on what to do.

“I cannot be prouder of them for what they have learnt in Badgers and how calm they both were in what must have been quite a stressful situation for such young people.

“We’re grateful for the fantastic work

of the Badger Leaders, teaching our future generations first aid and how to deal with emergencies.”

‘Quick thinking’

St John Ambulance Cymru’s Badger groups are for children aged five to eleven. As well as first aid, members learn about a range of other subjects, including communication and outer space.

Donna Jones, who leads the St John Ambulance Cymru Badgers in Carmarthen, said: “We are so delighted to hear of their quick thinking and sensible, calm response in a real-life situation.

“We presented them both with their own little Badger during our next session.

Whilst they were both shocked and humble, we felt it was really important to acknowledge how smart they were on that day and how proud we are of them.”

St John Ambulance Cymru says its young people’s programmes help children and teenagers learn confidence, teamwork and lifesaving skills.

More information about Badgers, for children aged five to eleven, and Cadets, for young people aged eleven to fifteen, is available at www.sjacymru.org.uk/ young-people.

D-Day 82: Milford Haven remembers sacrifice of Normandy landings COMMUNITIES gathered in Milford Haven on Saturday (Jun 6) to mark the 82nd anniversary of D-Day. The service, held at The Rath, brought together veterans, standard bearers, councillors, local church representatives, members of the Royal British Legion Milford Haven Branch, and residents for a solemn act of remembrance overlooking the waterway.

Wreaths were laid at the town’s war memorials, including the Cenotaph on Hamilton Terrace, as tribute was paid to the thousands of Allied servicemen who crossed the Channel on June 6, 1944.

D-Day marked the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation and remains one of the most significant military operations in history.

Milford Haven’s own wartime role gave the commemoration added meaning. During the Second World War, the Haven was home to a major US Navy Advanced Amphibious Base, where landing craft were prepared, maintained and repaired ahead of Allied operations.

The town’s harbour and maritime workforce formed part of the huge logistical effort that made the Normandy landings possible.

One of the most striking moments of Saturday’s commemoration came from the waterway itself, where Port of Milford Haven tugs staged a moving water salute.

As the service took place, the tugs sent great arcs of water into the air, creating a powerful visual tribute linking the town’s seafaring identity with its wartime service.

Those attending stood in quiet reflection as the community remembered not only those who landed on the beaches of Normandy, but also the men and women at home whose work supported the invasion.

With the number of surviving D-Day veterans now sadly dwindling, events such as Milford Haven’s commemoration carry growing importance.

They ensure that younger generations understand the courage, sacrifice and shared effort behind the events of June 1944.

In Milford Haven, the service at The Rath, the laying of wreaths, and the dramatic tug salute combined to create a fitting tribute from a town with a proud place in the story of D-Day. The message of the day was simple and enduring: lest we forget.

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Pembroke choir receives standing ovation on Ireland tour FRIENDSHIPS new and old were made and renewed as Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir enjoyed a hugely successful tour of Ireland over the long May weekend.

Led by Musical Director Juliet Rossiter and accompanied by the Rev William Lambert, the choir performed two concerts, at Drogheda and Clontarf.

A warm welcome in Drogheda At St Peter’s Church of Ireland, Drogheda, the choir was hosted by the Tredagh Singers, who visited Pembrokeshire last year for a joint concert in Tenby.

The link between the two choirs began after a chance meeting at a bowls competition in Ireland between Pembroke baritone Ed Morris and a member of the Tredagh Singers.

The Welsh visitors performed alongside the host choir, which was supported by an orchestra, and the Gary Kelly Cancer Support Choir.

Introduced by choir MC Matthew John, Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir performed a programme including favourites from Les Misérables and World in Union, as well as joint items with Tredagh Singers.

The concert was warmly received by a packed audience of more than 300

people, who gave the choir a standing ovation.

Old friends reunited At St Anthony’s Catholic Church, Clontarf, choir members were greeted by renowned singer Bryan Hoey, a longstanding vice-president of the choir, who helped arrange the concert.

They were also welcomed by the parish priest, Fr Larry White.

The choir’s 14-piece programme included a first performance of the Irish folk ballad The Fields of Athenry, along

with Working Man, featuring solo parts by accompanist William Lambert.

The concert also saw the long-awaited debut of the Cheeky Boys, a group of nine choristers who performed Tell My Father and The Wonder of You to prolonged applause.

Gifts and fellowship Gifts were presented at both concerts, including a choir plaque and a traditional Welsh love spoon.

Musical Director Juliet Rossiter presented the gifts to Vincent Moore,

chairman of the Tredagh Singers, while choir chairman David Halsted presented a plaque to Fr White.

Geraint Morgan, who co-ordinated the tour arrangements, presented a love spoon to Bryan Hoey in recognition of his help and musical fellowship.

Bryan also met chorister Martin Harries, whose late father, Frank, was the choir’s senior member and a long-time friend and contact.

There was a further surprise for Bryan when the choir led the singing of Happy Birthday to mark a special milestone.

In keeping with choir tradition, MC Matthew John invited audience members to join the choir for American Trilogy. Bryan Hoey was among those who accepted, along with three others including coach driver and tour guide Jim Shannon, who was described as an “honorary Welshman” by the end of the tour.

The choir also acknowledged a generous donation made on behalf of the church by Fr White.

There was time for an impromptu mini-concert at the Guinness Storehouse, where the choir performed at the entrance, and the group also visited Johnstown Castle near Wexford before returning by ferry.

Choir members thanked Geraint Morgan and Ed Morris for their work in organising the tour.

HMS Erebus exhibition opens as Pembroke Dock marks 200-year milestone

PEMBROKE DOCK HERITAGE CENTRE has marked the 200th anniversary of the launch of HMS Erebus with a special event celebrating one of the town’s most remarkable maritime stories.

HMS Erebus was built at the Royal Dockyard in Pembroke Dock and launched on June 7, 1826, before going on to become one of

the most famous exploration vessels of the 19th century.

The ship later took part in major polar expeditions, including voyages to Antarctica, before being lost during Sir John Franklin’s doomed Arctic expedition. Its wreck was discovered in Canadian waters in 2014, reigniting worldwide interest in the vessel and its Pembrokeshire

origins.

The anniversary event was attended by supporters, volunteers and visitors, with music from folk trio Broadoak and a presentation

by Professor Russell Potter on the ship’s extraordinary career.

The Heritage Centre thanked everyone who helped make the event possible, including its volunteers,

catering team, musicians and guest of honour Professor Potter.

The new exhibition, HMS Erebus: From Dockyard to Discovery, opens to the public on Monday (Jun 8).

Professor Potter will also give a public talk, From Land’s End to the Ends of the Earth: The Eventful Career of HMS Erebus, at 10:30am.

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Wales must prepare for heat as well as rain WALES has long known how to talk about rain. We understand swollen rivers, flooded roads, storm warnings and the familiar misery of a wet winter.

But climate change is also forcing Wales to think seriously about heat.

A new warning from the UK’s climate advisers should make the new Welsh Government sit up.

The Climate Change Committee says deadly heatwaves, droughts, flooding, wildfire risk and even disease-carrying mosquitoes could become part of Wales’ future unless urgent adaptation work is stepped up.

This is not distant theory. Wales recorded its hottest day in 2022, when temperatures reached 37.1C in Hawarden, Flintshire. The country then experienced its warmest summer on record in 2025. Wales’ ten hottest years on record have all happened since the early 2000s.

That tells its own story.

The CCC warns that hotter summers will increasingly become the new normal. Heatwaves lasting a week or more could become common by the middle of this century. Across the UK, heat-related deaths could rise sharply without better protection for vulnerable people.

For Wales, this matters deeply.

Our hospitals, care homes and schools were not designed for long periods of extreme heat. Many older people, disabled people and those with serious health conditions are at particular risk. Care homes without proper cooling can become unbearable. Staff are left trying to protect residents with fans, water,

closed blinds and improvised measures.

That is not good enough.

Climate adaptation cannot simply mean putting out warnings when temperatures rise. It means investing now in cooling systems, shading, ventilation, tree planting, flood defences and safer buildings. It means accepting that Wales must be prepared for both too much water and not enough.

Flooding remains one of the greatest threats. Around 245,000 properties in Wales are already at risk from heavier rainfall and rising sea levels. Coal tips also remain a serious concern, especially as extreme weather makes unstable land more dangerous.

Farmers face their own pressures, with drought followed by intense rain damaging crops, soil and food production. Fire crews are already seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons, while flooding incidents demand more resources over wider areas.

The Fire Brigades Union is right to warn that emergency services cannot simply absorb more and more climate-related disasters without proper investment.

There is also a political challenge here. Every government likes talking about climate targets, net zero and future ambition. But adaptation is less glamorous. It is about drains, roofs, reservoirs, care homes, tree cover, warning systems and emergency

planning.

Yet that is where lives will be saved.

The new Welsh Government has said it is committed to improving Wales’ preparedness. Those words now need to become a practical programme of action.

Climate change in Wales will not only be measured in carbon figures or speeches in the Senedd.

It will be measured in flooded homes, overheated hospital wards, exhausted firefighters, damaged farms and vulnerable people left at risk.

The message from the CCC is stark, but not hopeless. The solutions already exist. Wales now needs the urgency to use them.

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S R O R IR M D N A E K O M S D BA D G E R A N CREMATORIA are not the sexiest of subjects, readers.

Most people know crematoria from attending services, watching as loved ones or friends are reduced to ash. It takes a very specific type of person to find excitement in attending one. Of course, if you’re trapped in a sealed coffin as it’s shoved into the oven, your last moments are full of incident and noise. But you wouldn’t call it a thrill.

Because most of us rarely contemplate what crematoria do, our attention usually centres on what happens before the curtains close, and the recorded music begins. Whether it’s a tinny rendition of “Simply the Best” or the maudlin drunks’ anthem “My Way,” Badger can’t help thinking that The Trammps’ “Disco Inferno” or, at a push, Elvis Presley’s “Burning Love” might be more fitting.

This tendency not to dwell on crematoria also means we seldom consider how they are funded.

In Pembrokeshire, the local authority owns Parc Gwyn crematorium. In Wales, such an arrangement is commonplace.

What is rather less common is how the Council uses the money Parc Gwyn generates.

The crematorium operates on the principle that all operating costs are recovered from users of the facility.

Or, rather, their families.

So, if a cremation costs x thousand quid, the Council recovers x thousand either from the deceased’s estate or the deceased’s family. There are exceptions, but Badger sets them aside, as they neither add to nor subtract from what follows.

Between 2021 and 2025, Parc Gwyn generated around £6.5m in income. When that is offset against the cost of operating the crem, the net profit came to a touch over £2.6m. About half of that went into a designated reserve to fund future development and planned expenditure at Parc Gwyn.

The other half… ah!

Well, readers, you might think it would go to fund other services linked to hatches, matches, and

dispatches. If it does, it only does so indirectly.

Instead, the money ends up in the Council’s general revenue fund and is used to fund whatever officers (and on the odd occasion, councillors) decide should be funded.

Next year, cremation charges at Parc Gwyn will increase in line with inflation. A further increase is likely the following year.

Now, readers, the service operates on the principle of “fullcost-recovery”, that is, that the costs of providing the service (plus a provision for reserves for capital investment and maintenance at the crematorium) should be covered by the revenue generated from its provision. You will have noticed, however, that instead of reinvesting all of the excess into a reserve for Parc Gwyn, it is trousering the loot for itself.

All that leaves a somewhat dismal and unpleasant prospect: the Council is cashing in on others’ misery. The wages of sin might be death, but the profits from cremation are significant.

The above is of more than academic interest, readers. Please consider the following.

Dissatisfied with how the Council was allocating its grief-related profits, the Conservative Group called for the Council’s Cabinet to review its policy. To describe the exercise as a waste of time would be kind. The officers’ report to Cabinet was full of jargonese and the sort of reasoning you’d expect to find on the back of a fag packet. Faced with being told that all was well and all would be well, the report pooh-poohed the idea that an alternative service model was worth investigating.

It’s at this point that, after the Cabinet rubber-stamped the officers’ opinions, the issue was called before the Services Scrutiny Committee by dissatisfied committee members who opined that the report to Cabinet failed to consider anything other than the status quo. Or, bearing in mind the profits the crematorium generates, the status quids-in.

Another Committee meeting took place this week. The Committee

members received an officers’ report so vacuous, smug, and patronising that it took the breath away.

Badger spotted one wonderful sentence that bears repeating here.

After telling Committee members that everything in the garden of remembrance was lovely, the report’s author opined: “[T]here are a number of wellknown established factors relevant to any change in operating model, including workforce protections, pension requirements, and the introduction of additional cost through external delivery arrangements.”

All of which is fine, but misses the point of the original request for the Cabinet to consider the policy.

Instead of examining the issues, that response takes the line that the issues surrounding a change to a different operating model are so well known that any alternative can be dismissed without bothering to enumerate the additional costs alleged or to refer to any supporting data on which that conclusion is based.

The response begged some very important questions. The most important of them is simple. The Council offers a public service. That service is paid for by the public who use it. The public is entitled to know what the Council does with the money. The public is also entitled to be told whether the service offers

the best value based on something more than an airy reference to “wellknown established factors”. The Committee meeting on Monday was held in public. The public could either watch or attend in person. Perhaps the genius who wrote the sentence Badger quotes above would consider whether that response informs the public or is intended to hector the Committee members.

Transparency is the key consideration.

The officer writes based on assumed common ground and understanding. Badger is reminded of the old saw featured in the film “The Silence of the Lambs”: If you assume anything, you make an ass out of you and me.

Let’s start from the beginning.

Explain why the excess revenue from Parc Gwyn is either not ploughed back into the crematorium or used to directly fund the lossmaking burial service and fund the registrars’ services. Or to reduce the considerable sums sought from grieving families.

More particularly, if you’re going to provide an answer to any Committee and, by extension, the public, it must be supported by facts and evidence, not assertions.

Back to the Cabinet it is, then.

And this time, show your workings. If you’ve bothered doing them, that is.

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Writers and young poets invited to celebrate Moby Dick at Fishguard Festival ORGANISERS of Fishguard’s Ar Ymyl y Tir 2026/On Land’s Edge Festival are inviting writers and poets to pay their own tributes to Moby Dick.

This year’s festival (September 25-27) will be celebrating the 70th anniversary of the cinematic release of John Huston’s classic movie on the great white whale which was largely filmed in Fishguard Bay. Details of an adults’ short story writing competition as well as a young persons’ poetry competition have now been announced.

Writers are invited to submit their own pieces of fictional prose – up to 3,000 words – that respond in some way to Moby Dick: the novel or the film.

They may choose a reworking of one of the characters or one of the incidents in the narrative; or alternately explore the same themes the novel raises or about a character’s own experience relating to reading the novel or seeing the film.

The competition will be judged

by Robert Harries, the fiction editor of Folding Rock, Wales’

Cerys Lafferty

cerys@herlad.email

leading magazine of creative prose (foldingrock.com).

A prize of £100 will be awarded for the best entry. There will be an entry fee of £5, with all proceeds going towards literary events at Ar Ymyl y Tir 2026/On Land’s Edge.

The winners will be announced at the festival’s final event on Sunday, September 27.

Young people are also invited to write poems on the theme of sea creatures based on their own experiences and observations.

These do not have to be epic adventures like Captain Ahab’s, but ordinary encounters with crustaceans, cetaceans, fish, seabirds and other sea life which can provide experiences that work well in poetry.

The judges will be looking for truthfulness and clarity in these poems about sea creatures.

There is a £30 prize for the best entries in English and in Welsh and runner-up prizes of £20.

The winners will be announced at

the festival’s final event on Sunday, September 27.

The closing date for entries in both competitions is 5pm on Friday, July

17.

To enter please visit onlandsedge. co.uk/short-story-2026 or onlandsedge.co.uk/poetry-2026

Free family inflatable fun day coming to Haverfordwest this summer family attractions of the summer, but spaces for children will be limited.

Tickets released this week Tickets will be released on Thursday, June 11 at 7:00pm and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Only 600 child spaces will be available, with families being encouraged to book quickly to avoid disappointment.

While entry to the event is free, organisers say a compulsory £1 donation per ticket will go towards supporting Milford Youth Matters, Pure West Radio’s Charity of the Year.

Supporting local young people

HUNDREDS of local families are expected to flock to Withybush Showground this July as a huge free inflatable fun day promises bouncy castles, food, music and entertainment for children of all ages.

Tom Sinclair

editor@herald.email

Organised by Pure West Radio in association with Haverfordwest Town Council, the “Free Family Inflatable Fun Day” will take place on Sunday,

July 19, from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

The event will feature a wide range of inflatables, an under-fives play park, street food vendors, music and family entertainment throughout the day.

Organisers say the event is expected to be one of the biggest

Milford Youth Matters provides support, activities and opportunities for young people in Pembrokeshire, and organisers hope the event will help raise both awareness and funds for the charity.

A spokesperson for Pure West Radio said the event aims to offer a fun, affordable day out for local families during the summer holidays, bringing the community together for a day of entertainment.

Families interested in attending are being urged to keep an eye on Pure West Radio’s social media channels for ticket release details.

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GAMING

With eddie the game guru

R-Type Tactics I • II Cosmos is a fascinating revival of one of the most unusual spin-offs in the long-running R-Type series, successfully transforming the classic side-scrolling shoot-’em-up formula into a deep, turn-based strategy experience. Rather than relying on fast reflexes and bullet-dodging action, the game challenges players to think several moves ahead as fleets of iconic spacecraft clash across sprawling battlefields.

The collection brings together both original R-Type Tactics titles with modernized visuals, expanded content, and the long-awaited Western debut of the second game, making it the definitive way to experience this overlooked corner of the franchise.

What immediately stands out is how faithfully the tactical gameplay captures the spirit of the main series. Ships still have distinct firing arcs, powerful Wave Cannons require careful positioning, and every movement feels like part of a larger strategic puzzle rather than a simple numbers game. Battles

can be slow and methodical, rewarding patience, planning, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions. While newcomers may find the learning curve steep, particularly during longer missions where a single mistake can have lasting consequences, strategy fans will appreciate the depth and complexity on offer. The large roster of units, varied mission objectives, and faction-specific campaigns ensure that battles rarely become repetitive.

facelift. Ship models are sharper, battlefields are more detailed, and the presentation feels far more modern than the original releases.

Although the tactical nature of the gameplay means the visuals are rarely flashy, the upgraded graphics help make the extensive fleet battles more immersive and easier to follow. The soundtrack and atmosphere continue to deliver the sense of isolation, mystery, and looming threat that has always defined R-Type.

The narrative is another pleasant surprise. By allowing players to experience multiple perspectives, including the human Space Corps and the terrifying Bydo forces, the game expands the mythology of the R-Type universe in ways that the actionfocused entries never could.

Branching storylines, multiple campaigns, and additional postgame content give the collection impressive longevity while adding greater context to one of gaming’s strangest and most enduring sci-fi settings.

The collection is not without flaws. Mission lengths can sometimes feel excessive, the pacing may be too deliberate for players expecting traditional strategy RPGs, and some interface elements still reveal their handheld origins. Those looking for the fastpaced action typically associated with R-Type may also struggle to connect with its slower, more cerebral approach. However, these issues are largely outweighed by the sheer amount of content, the depth of its mechanics, and the uniqueness of its design.

Visually, the remake treatment gives both games a welcome

Ultimately, R-Type Tactics I • II Cosmos is a rewarding and surprisingly ambitious strategy collection that preserves everything that made the originals memorable while enhancing them for a modern audience. It may not appeal to everyone, but for fans of tactical warfare, science-fiction storytelling, and niche strategy gems that dare to do something different, it stands as one of the most distinctive strategy releases in recent years. The result is a collection that feels less like a nostalgic re-release and more like the rediscovery of a hidden classic that finally gets the attention it deserves.

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Click to

Disclosure Day is a stirring and ambitious return to the kind of large-scale science fiction that has long been associated with Steven Spielberg, blending mystery, wonder and human drama into a film that feels both intimate and epic. Built around the idea of a world suddenly confronted with undeniable proof that humanity is not alone, the film explores not only the implications of extraterrestrial contact but also the emotional and psychological impact such a revelation would have on ordinary people. Rather than relying solely on spectacle, it places its focus firmly on its characters, allowing the mystery at its heart to unfold through personal journeys filled with fear, hope and curiosity.

Emily Blunt delivers a compelling performance as Margaret, a television meteorologist whose inexplicable connection to the unfolding events places her at the centre of a global phenomenon. She brings

warmth and vulnerability to a role that could easily have become overwhelmed by the film’s grand concepts. Josh O’Connor is equally effective as her unlikely ally, providing a grounded presence as the story moves from conspiracy thriller to cosmic mystery. Together they form an engaging partnership that gives the narrative its emotional core.

Colin Firth, meanwhile, offers a memorably unsettling turn that adds an undercurrent of tension whenever he appears on screen.

Visually, Disclosure Day is often breathtaking. Spielberg and his collaborators create moments of awe that recall the filmmaker’s most beloved science-fiction works while still feeling distinctly modern. Expansive landscapes, mysterious lights in the sky and carefully constructed sequences of suspense are complemented by impressive visual effects that serve the story rather than dominate it. The cinematography captures both the beauty and uncertainty of a world on the brink of a profound transformation, while the sound design and score

heighten the sense of anticipation throughout.

What elevates the film above many contemporary sciencefiction blockbusters is its fascination with ideas. Questions about truth, belief, government secrecy and humanity’s place in the universe are woven into the narrative without overwhelming the entertainment value. The script balances mystery and emotion effectively, gradually revealing information while maintaining a strong sense of intrigue. Even when the story embraces its more fantastical elements, it remains rooted in recognisable human reactions, making the extraordinary feel believable.

While some viewers may wish for a faster pace in places and a few of the mysteries remain intentionally ambiguous, these are minor criticisms in a film that succeeds so confidently at creating a sense of wonder.

Disclosure Day is thoughtful, suspenseful and visually impressive, offering the kind of intelligent event cinema that has become increasingly rare. It stands as a captivating exploration of what might happen if humanity’s greatest question were finally answered, and it reminds audiences why Spielberg remains one of the most accomplished storytellers working in film today.

Overall, Disclosure Day is an engrossing and emotionally resonant science-fiction thriller that deserves to be experienced on the biggest screen possible.

WWW.HAVERFORDWESTCINEMA.CO.UK

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Tech and Taff

Robot soldiers, butt? What could possibly go wrong?

ALRIGHT, butt, gather round, because this week the boffins in California have apparently decided that what the world really needs right now is robot soldiers.

Yes. Actual humanoid robots.

Walking about on two legs. Carrying stuff, opening doors, scouting buildings — and one day, perhaps, carrying weapons into battle.

And before you ask, no, this isn’t the plot of a dodgy sci-fi film from the 1980s. It’s already happening.

A company in San Francisco called Foundation Robotics is building a shiny black humanoid robot called Phantom. Sounds ominous already, doesn’t it? Like something that definitely ends with mankind hiding in bunkers.

The strange thing is, butt, the robot isn’t exactly terrifying yet.

When journalists turned up expecting to see some kind of Terminator marching about the place, Phantom was apparently sat there playing with children’s building blocks like it had wandered into nursery by mistake.

Honestly, it sounds less “future war machine” and more “overgrown toddler with expensive batteries”.

Still, the company behind it says these robots could one day help soldiers by carrying supplies,

rescuing injured people, checking dangerous buildings, or scouting areas too risky for humans.

And, to be fair, there is a sensible argument there.

If you can send a robot into danger instead of a son, daughter, husband or wife in uniform, most people would at least stop and think about it.

Nobody wants young soldiers getting hurt if technology can genuinely reduce risk.

But then comes the bit that makes your eyebrows go up faster than a council tax bill.

Because the company isn’t just talking about rescue work or carrying boxes, mun. Oh no. They openly say these robots could eventually be armed.

That’s right — robot soldiers with guns.

Now, before everybody panics and starts digging fallout shelters in the garden, there’s an important detail here: these machines are nowhere near ready.

At the moment, Phantom can’t even get up properly if it falls over.

Its hands don’t work properly yet.

It isn’t waterproof.

And some experts say today’s humanoid robots struggle to do jobs in warehouses, never mind survive a

battlefield.

So if there was a war tomorrow, the chances of robot soldiers charging heroically into battle are probably about as realistic as Pembrokeshire getting a reliable mobile phone signal in every village.

Still, technology moves frighteningly fast.

Ten years ago, most people thought AI was something clever that might recommend films on Netflix.

Now half the internet is arguing with chatbots, students are getting essays written by computers, and your phone somehow knows what takeaway you fancy before you do.

So it would be daft to dismiss this stuff completely.

The real question is this: even if we can build robot soldiers, should we?

Because war is already horrible enough without removing humans from the decision-making.

Who gets blamed if a robot makes a mistake?

Who is responsible if artificial intelligence identifies the wrong person?

And would politicians become quicker to start conflicts if fewer human soldiers were directly at risk?

That’s the bit that gives me pause, butt.

The people building these systems say humans would remain “in the loop” and approve any use of deadly force.

But history tells us technology has a funny habit of doing more than originally promised.

Social media was supposed to help us share holiday snaps. Now Auntie Jean is reposting conspiracy theories about pigeons being government spies.

And if you think military technology won’t creep further than expected, I’ve got a bridge in Milford Haven to sell you.

Mind you, perhaps I’m worrying too much.

Because judging by where the technology is now, these robot warriors still seem some way off taking over the battlefield.

After all, if a machine struggles opening a door or standing up after falling over, imagine it trying to navigate rural Wales.

“Mission failed,” the military report reads.

“Advanced combat robot immobilised near Crymych after becoming trapped behind a tractor and confused by a sheep.”

Now that, butt, sounds much more realistic.

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HOROSCOPES

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Every Year After is a deeply emotional romantic drama that captures the bittersweet intensity of first love and the lasting impact of the choices we make when we are young.

Adapted from Carley Fortune’s bestselling novel, the series follows Percy and Sam across years of friendship, attraction, heartbreak and separation, using a dual-timeline structure that gradually reveals the events that tore them apart before bringing them back together.

What makes the show so compelling is its patient approach to storytelling. Rather than relying on constant twists, it allows the relationship between its two central characters to develop naturally, making their connection feel authentic and lived-in. The lead performances bring warmth and vulnerability to the roles,

giving weight to both the joyful and painful moments of the story, while the lakeside setting provides a nostalgic backdrop that becomes almost a character in its own right.

The series excels when exploring themes of regret, forgiveness and the way memories can shape our understanding of love. The emotional tension is sustained throughout as the audience slowly uncovers the reasons behind Percy and Sam’s estrangement, creating a strong sense of anticipation for their eventual reunion. While some viewers may find the pacing slower than other contemporary romance dramas, the deliberate rhythm allows the emotional beats to land with greater impact.

Visually, Every Year After embraces a warm and nostalgic aesthetic that perfectly

complements its story of longing and second chances. The supporting cast adds depth to the narrative, helping to create a believable community around the central romance. The result is a heartfelt adaptation that remains focused on character development and emotional resonance rather than melodrama.

Overall, Every Year After is an engaging and emotionally satisfying romance that will particularly appeal to viewers who enjoy character-driven love stories, nostalgic summer settings and narratives centred on lost love finding a second chance. Its strongest qualities are its heartfelt performances, atmospheric setting and sincere exploration of how time can change people while leaving certain feelings untouched, making it a memorable and affecting addition to the modern romance genre.

ARIES Now that your life is calming down a bit, take the opportunity to evaluate some recent developments. Measure the wins and the losses and get perspective on where you really are. Someone from your past wants to get back into your good graces, and they might hit you with the hard sell to get there. Don’t let your guilt or sense of obligation put you in a subservient position.

TAURUS You are in the middle of quite a tango today -- this dance between you and a relatively new person in your life is fun, but is it going anywhere? For today, one of your goals should be to find out. If you can advance things inch by inch, you will get closer to this person by the end of the day. Don’t be afraid to step on their toes once or twice. Coming across as forceful or aggressive isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It can be a very efficient use of your time.

GEMINI Today, you could experience something you have never experienced before, but will you even notice? Sometimes we humans are so busy looking for huge revelations that we all forget to notice the smaller things that happen all around us. Walk a little bit slower, and use your neck for its intended purpose: to look around! Wander in and out of intriguing situations and go try that new restaurant you’ve been wondering about. Take a walk on the unexpected side.

CANCER Are you getting sucked into the misconception that bigger is better? This could be a big mistake. Your energy is better suited for smaller places, quieter sounds, and lower expectations. Instead of ordering a complicated fancy coffee that takes ten minutes to make, opt for a plain, old cup of joe. Turn down your music, open a window, and listen to the birds sing. Get back to the basics and remember that sometimes less is more.

LEO Are you growing impatient with someone? If by this point certain milestones haven’t been achieved that should have, then today is the day to speak up about it. Chances are this person is completely unaware of your frustration. Step outside of yourself and realize that all your internal dialogue is muted. No one else can hear it unless you voice it. Have the courage to speak your mind and try to speed them along. They’re more willing than you realize.

VIRGO The achievements of the people around you should serve as inspiration today.

It seems that the excuses you’ve been giving yourself don’t hold much water anymore, do they? Get started on that thing you’ve been meaning to do for so long. Now that you are in a comfortable situation, try for something that might be just out of your reach. The suspense isn’t going to kill you. It will only motivate you.

LIBRA Time is definitely going to be on your side today, so use it wisely. Your romantic relationship is getting stronger, and today the two of you might finally have all the time you need to have that conversation you’ve been waiting to have.

Be honest and trust them with your feelings, the good, the bad, and the vulnerable. This is an important opportunity to get everything out on the table and determine what you’re dealing with. Make plans for the future.

SCORPIO Today will be a breezy day, and getting some fresh air is prescribed. You need to be out in wide-open spaces to open up your mind more. Openness will enable new ideas, new people, and even a few new adventures to enter your life and inject it with the excitement you’ve been eager to find. If you spend more time with less conventional people, you’ll be giving your mind the stimulation it needs. So say hello to the folks you meet while you’re out exploring the world.

SAGITTARIUS As you could certainly find out today, making a new beginning in an old situation isn’t always easy to accomplish. If all you’re trying to do is get back to the “good old days,” that’s your first mistake, and don’t let overlooking someone’s resistance be your second mistake. Open up a dialogue and ask the people you’re trying to connect with how they’re feeling about the situation.

Easy solutions will pop up and things should get smoother soon.

CAPRICORN Today, your inner force will be out in full force, and you’ll be fixing all sorts of problems with your creativity. From dealing with something as minor as a broken mug to handling something as major as fallout from a missed deadline, you will master every little (unpleasant) surprise that comes your way. This is not to say that you should go out and seek controversy, however. Be sure to keep your eyes on your own paper and mind your manners.

AQUARIUS You can’t hit a home run every time, so why are you holding yourself to impossible standards? Even the biggest Hollywood stars churn out a cinematic bomb every once in a while, and then a few months later they’re back in a blockbuster. Take a lesson from that. If you’re down now, that doesn’t mean you have to stay down.

Your successes aren’t based on luck. They’re based on your abilities. You are ready, willing, and able.

PISCES Emotionally, you should be feeling more independent today. You are heading toward a major turning point where you can just let go of old grudges and move beyond the fear of not being a perfect person. You’re making the best choices you can, and you shouldn’t dwell on the missteps you’ve made. Your personal drama will be taking a back seat to more challenging projects or activities. Focus more on those today and you’ll forget about insecurities.

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Young people and families urged to support SPAN Arts SPAN Arts is calling for more young people and families to join its volunteer team as demand grows for its events programme at a time when volunteer numbers are low.

The Narberth-based community arts charity has brought people together through creativity for more than 30 years, using the arts to spark ideas, build connections and inspire positive change across Pembrokeshire.

Like many community organisations, SPAN Arts relies heavily on volunteers, and that support is now more important than ever.

A CALL FOR SUPPORT The SPAN Arts team said: “Volunteers are the backbone of our organisation, and at the moment we’re low on numbers.

“With more events coming up, we really need more people to step in, especially young people and families.”

The charity says there are opportunities for people who can spare a small amount of time, as well as those looking for a longer-term role.

WHY VOLUNTEER? Volunteering with SPAN Arts offers the chance to become part of a welcoming creative community while gaining useful experience.

Volunteers can meet new people, build confidence, develop new skills, gain hands-on experience for their CV, and see behind the scenes of the creative industries.

Roles may include supporting live

Tom Sinclair

editor@herald.email

events, working alongside professional artists, and learning about areas such as marketing, lighting, sound and production.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE For young people, volunteering can provide an introduction to the arts and events sector.

SPAN Arts says it offers the chance to join a friendly team, learn practical skills outside the classroom, gain experience in live events, and build confidence through new challenges.

FAMILY VOLUNTEERING Families are also being encouraged to take part.

With workshops and performances designed for young audiences, SPAN Arts says volunteering can be an enjoyable way for families to spend time together, support children in building confidence and teamwork skills, share new experiences with the local community, and do something meaningful together.

GET INVOLVED Anyone interested in volunteering is invited to contact SPAN Arts’ Volunteer Coordinator, Belinda, for an informal chat.

She can be contacted on 01834 869323 or by emailing VCO@span-arts.

org.uk.

SPAN Arts is a community arts charity based in Narberth, with a 30year history of contributing to the arts in Pembrokeshire.

The charity delivers music, theatre, comedy and spoken-word events, alongside arts and wellbeing projects in

areas where people may otherwise have limited access to the arts.

SPAN Arts says it is driven by the belief that the arts can improve quality of life, health and wellbeing, while helping to reduce social exclusion and rural isolation through community-based participation.

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Opinion By editor Tom Sinclair

Equality matters, but common sense must matter too THERE is something deeply uncomfortable in modern Britain.

Too many decent professionals in public services now hesitate to speak plainly, make obvious calls or act on instinct, simply because they fear being labelled racist, discriminatory or prejudiced.

This is the heart of Kemi Badenoch’s latest intervention on the Equality Act and the Public Sector Equality Duty. Some will dismiss it as political grandstanding.

Many ordinary people, especially those working on the front line, will recognise exactly what she means.

Let’s be clear from the start: anti-discrimination laws have made Britain better. Protections based on race, sex, disability, religion and sexuality were hard won. No reasonable person wants to go back to a time when jobs, housing or services were denied because of who you were. Real racism and discrimination still exist and must be tackled.

But there is a big difference between stopping genuine prejudice and creating a climate where people are frightened to do their jobs properly.

Police officers, teachers, social workers, doctors and council staff increasingly second-guess sensible decisions. They worry that one wrong word, one firm intervention or one complaint could wreck their career.

The result is not fairer services, it is weaker ones.

Badenoch pointed to painful examples: the Nottingham attacks

by Valdo Calocane, the Manchester Arena bombing, and the fatal stabbing of an 18-year-old white teenager in Southampton. In each case, serious questions have been raised about whether agencies were too nervous around cultural or racial sensitivities.

Whether you accept every detail of her argument, these failures deserve honest scrutiny. Ignoring patterns does not make them go away.

This is compounded by the mountain of bureaucracy that now surrounds “equality”. Endless forms, jargon-heavy training sessions and tick-box exercises that feel far removed from the real pressures facing overstretched public services.

Ask people in Pembrokeshire, or anywhere outside the Westminster bubble, what they want from their institutions. The answer is simple: competence. They want police who catch criminals, doctors who treat the sick, teachers who educate children, and councils that deliver services efficiently and fairly.

Fairness should mean treating everyone properly under the law. It should not mean tiptoeing around obvious problems for fear of controversy.

The solution is not to scrap equality protections entirely. That would be a mistake. But Badenoch is right to ask whether the pendulum has swung too far. Laws should prevent discrimination. They should not replace professional judgement or plain common sense.

Britain’s public services work best when staff feel confident to act in the public interest, not when they are constantly looking over their shoulder. It is time to restore that balance.

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Civil war? Ach y fi, pass the chips

I WAS sat on a lamp post down Milford Haven Docks the other morning, minding my own business and judging a man for putting vinegar on a sausage roll, when I heard it again.

“Civil war,” they said.

There it was, floating about the internet like an empty Greggs bag in a force eight gale.

Cars burning in Belfast. Bricks flying in Southampton. Angry men on phones.

Politicians flapping about. And before you can say “where’s my chips?”, half the country is apparently on the brink of collapse.

Ach y fi.

Now, I am only a seagull. I have been known to fight over a battered sausage. I once started a three-gull pile-on outside the chippy because Dai from Neyland looked at my curry sauce. But even I know the difference between a scrap, a riot, and the end of civilisation.

The trouble is that some people do not want Britain to look like Britain. They want it to look like a film trailer. Smoke.

Sirens. Flags. Shouting. Slow-motion footage of someone kicking a bin. Then along comes some bloke online telling everyone the country is finished, the

police are useless, the politicians are traitors, and only he can save you.

Funny how that always seems to be the ending, isn’t it?

The real world, of course, is usually much more boring. Most people are going to work, trying to pay the gas bill, waiting three weeks for a GP appointment, or wondering why a small bag of shopping now costs the same as a second-hand outboard motor.

But boring does not travel well online.

A pensioner helping her neighbour with the bins does not get the blood boiling. A mixed street where people rub along fine does not bring in clicks.

A normal Saturday in Pembrokeshire, where the biggest danger is being mugged by me outside a chip shop, does not suit the people selling panic.

So they show you the worst bit, again and again, until it feels like the whole country is on fire.

Then the word goes up: tinderbox.

Tinderbox here. Tinderbox there.

Tinderbox everywhere.

I have seen less tinder in a campsite at Broad Haven.

And where does it all lead? Usually to the same crowd telling you that immigration is the reason your rent is too

high, your wages are flat, your hospital appointment has vanished into the mist, and there are no houses for your children.

But they rarely mention the people who actually made those problems worse. They rarely talk about housing policy, low pay, public services being stretched, or years of governments treating whole communities like an afterthought.

No, no. That would be too complicated.

Much easier to point at someone different and squawk.

And believe me, I know squawking. I am an expert.

There is a danger here, and it is not just the violence itself. It is the way violence is being used as advertising. Every brick thrown becomes a campaign poster. Every burning car becomes a slogan. Every frightened community becomes another clip for someone’s little pocket television.

You watch enough of it and you start to believe the country outside your door is not real. The phone becomes

more convincing than the street.

That is how sensible people get dragged into nonsense. They are not all hateful. Some are scared. Some are angry. Some have been ignored for years. Some feel the country changing and do not know where they fit anymore.

But fear is useful to the wrong people.

It is the bait on the hook.

Down here in Pembrokeshire, we know a thing or two about being forgotten.

We know what it is like when decisions are made miles away by people who could not find Milford Haven on a map unless there was a photo opportunity attached.

But the answer is not to start shouting “civil war” every time something awful happens.

The answer is better housing. Better wages. Better services. Better policing.

Better politics. And maybe, just maybe, fewer rich men and ambitious politicians using ordinary people’s worries as kindling.

Because Britain is not in a civil war.

It is tired. It is unequal. It is badly run. It is angry in places. It is confused about itself. But it is not some doomed wasteland from a late-night internet video.

Most people still want the same things: a safe street, a decent job, a home they can afford, a school that works, a doctor when they need one, and enough left over for chips on a Friday.

And if we cannot agree on that, then frankly, you humans are even dafter than I thought.

Now then, stop doom-scrolling and keep your pasty covered.

There are real predators about.

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Public urged not to ‘rescue’ healthy young gulls as summer admissions rise

PETS CORNER

ANIMAL rescue organisations are urging people to think twice before intervening with young gulls this summer, warning that many birds taken into care do not actually need help.

The RSPCA, Scottish SPCA and British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council say thousands of gulls are brought into rescue centres every year, with many cases involving healthy chicks or fledglings that have simply left the nest as part of learning to fly.

The organisations say wellmeaning members of the public often mistake this normal stage of development for abandonment, even though parent birds are usually nearby and continue to feed and protect their young.

RSPCA wildlife rescue expert Verity Miles said: “Each summer, our wildlife centres see a surge in young gulls being brought in by kind members of the public.

“Gulls are such underappreciated animals, so it’s amazing so many people want to help them. However, in many cases these birds have not been abandoned, but have left the nest as they learn to fly. This is a normal part of their development.

“Their parents will usually remain nearby and continue to feed and protect them, but sadly many well-meaning passers-by will mistake this for abandonment.”

The warning comes as rescue teams prepare for the peak breeding season, when calls

about gulls rise sharply.

Sean Meechan, Wildlife Operations Lead at the Scottish SPCA, said officers attend thousands of gull-related calls every year, particularly in early summer.

He said: “While some situations do require intervention, the majority involve healthy birds that are best left alone.”

Experts say removing a healthy chick or fledgling can cause stress and reduce its

chances of survival. They also warn that disturbing or taking gulls, eggs or nests can be an offence unless there is a genuine need to intervene.

Paul Reynolds, Chair of the British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, said: “Taking a healthy chick or fledgling away from their parents can cause stress to the young bird and significantly reduce their chance of survival.

“Not only that, but it is also an offence to disturb, or take gulls

or eggs from their nests, unless absolutely necessary, so you may inadvertently be breaking the law by bringing in gulls that are not sick or injured.”

The RSPCA says it has cared for nearly 4,000 gulls in its wildlife centres over the past five years, with admissions peaking in June.

More than half involved young birds believed to be orphaned or grounded.

The Scottish SPCA attended more than 11,000 gull-related incidents over the same period.

The organisations say the public should leave uninjured young gulls where they are so their parents can continue to feed them. Very young chicks in immediate danger can be moved carefully to a nearby safe, elevated spot if possible.

People should only intervene if a bird is clearly sick or injured.

Anyone who finds an injured baby gull is advised to contact a vet or reputable wildlife rehabilitator. Injured adult gulls can be reported to the RSPCA in England and Wales, or the Scottish SPCA in Scotland.

Rescue organisations also warn that unnecessary handling and higher numbers of birds in care can increase the risk of disease transmission, including avian influenza.

Sean Meechan added: “The Scottish Government advises against handling gulls. If you’re concerned, the best course of action is to contact us and we can assess the situation.”

NEWS 61

Friday june 12th 2026 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

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New Portfield School facilities opened

development.

A former bus lay-by has also been converted into a car park with more than 100 spaces, including ten accessible bays.

The first phase of the scheme involved refurbishing the existing school building to create a more joined-up, campus-style environment for pupils and staff.

The building has been designed to achieve net zero carbon in operation through the installation of solar panels, air source heat pumps, improved insulation and energy-efficient lighting.

Construction firm Morgan Sindall, which delivered the works through the South West Wales

Regional Contractors Framework alongside engineering consultants AtkinsRéalis, said it had also exceeded its carbon reduction target during the build process.

The contractor said 95 per cent of the supply chain budget was spent locally, while 86 per cent of subcontractors used were based in the local area. Two graduates and two Pembrokeshire College work placement students were also involved in the project.

Cllr Jon Harvey, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, described completion of the first phase as an important milestone for both the school and the wider community.

Headteacher Sarah Hartley said: “We are delighted with the new provision for our pupils at Portfield School.

“It represents a significant step forward in ensuring every pupil has access to an inclusive, supportive and inspiring learning environment where they can thrive.

“As Headteacher, I am incredibly proud of how well the pupils have transitioned into the new site and adapted so quickly to their new learning environment.”

Morgan Sindall’s Area Director for Wales, Robert Williams, said the facilities would make “a lasting difference” to children, staff and families needing specialist education support.

The second phase of works is expected to be completed in early 2027 and will include the demolition and replacement of the respite block as well as remodelling of the SEN Sixth Form facilities.

The project follows previous collaboration between Pembrokeshire County Council and Morgan Sindall on Haverfordwest High VC School and Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro.

EDUCATION

NEW specialist facilities at Portfield School in Haverfordwest have officially opened as part of a major £28.8m redevelopment aimed at transforming education for pupils with additional learning needs in Pembrokeshire.

Representatives from Pembrokeshire County Council, Portfield School and contractors gathered to mark the completion of the first main phase of the project, which will eventually deliver a fully modernised specialist education campus.

The redevelopment, supported through the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme and Pembrokeshire County Council, has created a carbon net zero in operation school building designed to meet the growing demand for specialist education provision.

The new facilities include therapy rooms, sensory spaces, treatment rooms and a main hall equipped with a retractable trampoline. Outdoor improvements include a new multi-use games area and redesigned spaces intended to support pupils’ wellbeing and

GRADUATE outcomes have remained resilient despite a challenging economy and a cautious jobs market, new figures show.

The National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) said 87% of graduates with permanent residence in the UK were in employment or further study 15 months after graduation.

The data reflects a cohort entering the labour market during a period of subdued economic growth. UK GDP grew by just 0.3% in 2023 and 1.0% in 2024, while business investment and hiring remained cautious.

However, the figures also show that graduate unemployment has increased slightly, although it still rounds to 5%.

There were also significant differences between subject areas. Unemployment reached 10% among Computing graduates and 8% among Business and Management graduates.

The figures also showed that 67% of postgraduate Physical Sciences graduates were in fulltime employment, compared with 47% of undergraduates in the same field.

Despite the tougher labour

market, graduate satisfaction remained high, with 73% of graduates saying they felt satisfied or very satisfied with their lives 15 months after graduating.

Dr Joe Marshall, Chief Executive of NCUB, said the figures showed universities and employers had adapted to changing labour market needs.

He said: “We know that this is a challenging time for the economy and a changing time for the labour market. Against that backdrop, it is encouraging to see that graduate outcomes remain

resilient, with the overwhelming majority of graduates progressing into employment or further study.

“This resilience has not happened by accident.

Universities have worked hard, alongside employers and other partners, to adapt to changing labour market needs and develop new and innovative ways to prepare students for the world of work.

“Across the sector, we have seen growing employer partnerships, placements, work-based learning and other

opportunities that help students build the skills and experience they need to succeed.”

Dr Marshall said the figures should not lead to complacency, particularly as some graduates are finding the transition into work harder than in previous years.

He added: “Graduate success reflects the strength of the wider economy, the opportunities available to young people, and how effectively universities, employers and policymakers work together to develop and deploy talent.

“If the UK wants stronger growth, higher productivity and greater competitiveness, helping graduates succeed remains a critical part of the answer.

“No university can achieve this alone. Creating more opportunities for graduates and ensuring their skills are fully utilised requires genuine collaboration between universities, employers, government and other education providers.”

The NCUB said institutions with the strongest outcomes were often those embedded within strong networks of partnership between universities, employers and other education providers.

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Graduate outcomes remain strong despite challenging economy

62

FARMING

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Ffermio Bro support window opens for Pembrokeshire farmers PEMBROKESHIRE farmers and land managers are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of Ffermio Bro support, with the next Expression of Interest window now open.

The scheme supports practical, farmer-led projects within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, helping to improve nature, water quality, habitat links, traditional boundaries, wildfire resilience and the wider farmed landscape.

The programme has already supported a range of projects across Pembrokeshire, including habitat restoration, watercourse fencing, traditional boundary restoration, firebreak creation and woodland connectivity work.

FARMERS SUPPORTED

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FARMING

During its first year, Ffermio Bro supported 37 farms and land managers across the National Park, with projects covering just under 3,000 hectares.

The work included more than four kilometres of hedgerow creation and restoration, over 800 metres of watercourse improvement and protection works, and around 27 hectares of woodland support and management.

A number of collaborative

projects have also focused on improving biodiversity and ecosystem resilience across the National Park.

Arwel Evans, Conservation Farm Liaison Officer with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, said: “The first year of Ffermio Bro has shown what can be achieved when farmers and land managers are supported to deliver practical conservation work on the ground.

“We’ve worked with farms across the National Park on projects ranging from habitat restoration and water quality improvements to traditional boundary work and wildfire resilience.

“Looking ahead to the next two years, we’re particularly keen to support projects that improve water quality and river resilience across catchments such as the Eastern and Western Cleddau, Nyfer and Gwaun.

“That includes practical measures such as riparian fencing, buffer strips, healthier soils and habitat management that help keep rivers clean and resilient for the future.”

FARM-LED PROJECTS Gareth Waters, Ffermio Bro Advisor, added: “One of the strengths of the scheme is that projects are designed around

individual farms and local priorities.

“We’re keen to support practical projects that deliver longterm benefits for both farming businesses and the landscape, and we’d encourage interested farmers to contact us before the deadline.”

The current application window for Ffermio Bro: Farming within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park will remain open until Monday, June 22.

Further information on the scheme, eligibility and how to submit an Expression of Interest can be found at www. pembrokeshirecoast.wales/ ffermio-bro.

Unit 18b, Withybush Ind Est, Withybush, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA62 4BS

FARMING 63

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Heat stress warning for pregnant cows as autumn calving season approaches identify calves at greater risk of health problems, while also giving farmers a useful measure of how well colostrum management is working across the herd.

Support after birth

FARMERS are being warned that high summer temperatures could have long-lasting effects on autumnborn calves.

Animal health specialists say heat stress in pregnant cows can lead to weaker immunity, poorer growth rates and a higher risk of disease in calves after birth.

Nia Williams, Technical Livestock Manager at Nettex, said farmers may not immediately link hot weather now with calf performance several months later, but the impact during pregnancy can be significant.

She said: “Cows calving this autumn are at greater risk of producing calves with impaired immunity, which can increase susceptibility to diseases such as scours during the first weeks of life.”

Colostrum critical Heat stress can reduce feed intake, alter metabolic function and suppress immunity in cows. It can also affect mammary gland development during the dry period, potentially impacting milk production in the next lactation and calf performance after birth.

Ms Williams said: “Calves born to heat-stressed cows are often lighter at birth and can show reduced growth rates both before and after weaning.

That makes colostrum management absolutely critical.”

Farmers are being advised to ensure calves receive colostrum quickly after birth and to monitor passive transfer levels during the first week of life.

A blood test between one and seven days of age can help assess how well antibodies from colostrum have been absorbed into the calf’s bloodstream.

Ms Williams said this can help

Calves that struggle to suckle or appear weak in the first few days may need extra nutritional support.

Ms Williams said energy-boosting supplements can be used alongside colostrum to help encourage feeding and support early vitality.

Electrolytes can also play an important role in helping calves recover from scours, which may be caused by pathogens including Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Salmonella and Rotavirus.

The warning is not limited to calves.

Freshly calved cows can also struggle with reduced appetite, dehydration and electrolyte loss, particularly during hot weather.

Ms Williams said: “Water intake often declines before and during calving, increasing the risk of dehydration. During calving, cows can lose close to 60 litres of water through blood and uterine fluids, along with significant electrolyte losses.”

She warned that water alone may not be enough to restore electrolyte balance and normal cellular function after calving.

Farmers are being urged to support cows immediately after calving with energy, calcium, vitamins and electrolytes to aid recovery, encourage intake and support overall health and milk production during this critical period.

The warning comes as farmers prepare for the autumn calving season following periods of high summer temperatures.

Water bottling scheme to support Trerhys farm, near St Dogmaels approved A CALL for a north Pembrokeshire farm to be able to diversify through the bottling of water from its well has been given the go-ahead.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, a Mr George, through agent Harries Planning Design Management, sought permission for a change of use of part of an existing agricultural shed to a use for the bottling of water as a form of farm diversification at Trerhys, near St Dogmaels, Cardigan.

A supporting statement said: “The water bottling plant will be run and under control by the applicant, who also has direct control of the associated farm known as Trerhys. The water bottling plant seeks to diversify the farm income to provide future economic sustainability and increase revenue from the land.

“The increase in profits generated by the water bottling plant business will be siphoned back into the farm business, to allow for necessary improvements and works to the farm to ensure its future within a worsening agricultural economy.”

It said the profits would be used for ongoing repair and replacement of existing fencing around the farm which owns

Bruce Sinclair

Local Democracy Reporter

significant land, along with investing and increasing the suckler herd on the farm.

“The applicant underwent major surgery back in 2023 and had to cut back hours on the farm to recover. This meant that the suckler herd dipped in numbers and due to profitability, the farm has yet to be able to recover to its previous numbers.

“This increase in profit will allow the capital to be reinvested in the suckler herd, increase profit margins and overall profitability for the farm.”

It also said the profits would be “channelled into large repairs and overall, like-for-like replacement of a number of existing farm buildings,” and, depending on returns, “there may be scope to invest in the existing farmhouse on site”.

It concluded: “Overall, whilst the water bottling plant will take some time to become established and generate suitable profits, once established significant profits, these will be reinvested as above into the existing farm business to ensure its future can be secured for

longer within an uncertain agricultural economy.

“Without diversification, the farm is set to reduce further in size and the buildings and farmyard become further run down and unsightly in the landscape.”

An officer report recommending approval said the scheme for Trerhys Farm, 1.7km to the north of Moylegrove, would use one bay of an existing shed and would “utilise the existing water source from a well within an existing agricultural field to the north of the farm complex”.

Concerns were raised by three members of the public on the grounds

of a query on the water source and transportation of the finished product, and potential noise issues.

The report said a noise assessment found no detrimental impacts in the locality, with Highways officers having no concerns on transportation issues.

The officer report concluded: “Following careful consideration of the application and its merits, it is concluded that the proposed scheme represents an appropriate form of development in this location.”

The application was conditionally approved.

64

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Plaid challenged over badger cull fears as Labour demands answers

WELSH LABOUR has challenged Plaid Cymru over fears that badger culling could return as part of the

new Welsh Government’s approach to bovine TB. Interim Welsh Labour leader Ken

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Skates questioned First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth in the Senedd today, Tuesday (Jun 9), after Plaid Cymru’s manifesto pledged a “new approach” to managing bovine TB which recognises wildlife as a source of infection and allows “scientifically validated control methods”.

Labour says the wording has raised concerns among animal welfare campaigners that badger culling could be reconsidered in Wales.

During First Minister’s Questions, Mr Skates asked: “What is Plaid Cymru’s preferred method of killing badgers? Is it to shoot badgers? To poison badgers? Perhaps bludgeon them, or gas them?

“Would you want the badgers shot or poisoned or do you have another method in mind?”

The First Minister did not rule out badger culling in his response, according to Welsh Labour.

However, Plaid Cymru has not explicitly said it will reintroduce badger culling. Its manifesto refers to “scientifically validated control methods”, wording which could cover a range of approaches unless ministers provide further clarification.

The issue remains highly sensitive in rural Wales. Farmers and farming unions have long argued that wildlife transmission must be addressed as part of any serious bovine TB strategy, while animal welfare campaigners strongly oppose any return to culling.

Labour said the previous Welsh Government rejected badger culling following research which it said showed the practice was cruel and ineffective in tackling the spread of bovine TB. Mr Skates said: “I was appalled that the First Minister dismissed concerns raised about animal welfare today as ‘not a serious question’.

“Plaid Cymru’s approach to the outdated and cruel practice of culling badgers sets a dangerous precedent around how they will approach animal welfare. Which animal rights are they prepared to roll back on?

“Welsh Labour will continue to hold the government to account to ensure the progress made on a safer, kinder Wales for animals is not undone.”

Welsh Labour also pointed to its record on animal welfare, including bans on greyhound racing, snares and glue traps.

The Herald has asked Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Government to clarify whether badger culling is being considered.

FARMING 65

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Martletwy YFC tractor pulling weekend returns this August

TRACTORS will go head to head in Martletwy this summer as Martletwy YFC

stages its popular tractor pulling and dyno weekend.

The event takes place on

Saturday and Sunday, August 8 and 9, with gates opening at 10:30am at Martletwy, Pembrokeshire, SA67 8AJ. Farm tractors will race up a hill climb while pulling loaded trailers, with highly modified machines also taking on the bank.

There will also be a dyno on site to test the power of the machines, along with tractor pulling sledges for demonstration pulls. Three sledges will be available, covering everything from garden tractors and vintage tractors to purpose-built pulling tractors.

The South Pembrokeshire Ploughing Association will also hold its annual ploughing match in conjunction with the weekend.

Organisers say there will be plenty for all the family, including trade stands, a funfair, food, refreshments and a bar.

On Saturday evening the pulling will continue, with live bands, DJs, a bar and tug-ofwar competitions.

Camping is available on site, making it possible for visitors to enjoy the full weekend.

Advance booking for tractors is preferred.

For more information, call 07824 633256 or 07787 988263.

Rural crime continues to place a significant burden on farming families and communities across Wales. From the theft of livestock and vehicles to illegal off-roading and fly-tipping, many rural areas face persistent challenges that impact livelihoods, wellbeing and confidence in the countryside.

Over recent years, a particular concern in many parts of Wales has been hare coursing.

Recurring incidents in areas including Glamorgan have been a cause of significant worry and intimidation for farming families. In many instances, offenders have shown little regard for private property, leaving behind damaged gates and farmland. Such incidents not only result in financial losses but also leave many farmers feeling vulnerable and increasingly concerned about the safety of their farms.

The FUW has worked with local police forces, politicians and other key stakeholders to highlight the damaging effects of hare coursing on rural communities. The Union has consistently called for stronger enforcement measures and more robust legislation to address what has become a persistent and deeply concerning issue for many farming families.

To this end, the FUW has welcomed the introduction of new sentencing guidelines for hare coursing offences in England and Wales.

The measures, which came into force on 1 June 2026, will require courts to give greater

consideration to the harm caused to farmers, rural communities and the wider countryside. The aim is to deliver tougher and more consistent penalties for those convicted of offences linked to illegal hare coursing.

The updated guidance covers offences introduced under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, including trespass with intent to pursue hares and being equipped for hare coursing. Courts will now consider a broader range of aggravating factors when determining sentences, including organised criminal activity, the use of social media to promote or arrange coursing events, repeat offending, and significant damage to land, crops and wildlife habitats.

Importantly, the revised guidance expands the definition of “serious harm”.

Sentencers will be asked to consider not only the physical and environmental damage caused by offenders, but also the distress, intimidation and disruption experienced by farming families and rural businesses. The most serious offences now carry sentencing starting points of up to 18 weeks’ custody, alongside powers to impose dog disqualification orders and recover costs linked to seized animals.

The FUW believes these changes represent an important step towards recognising the true impact of hare coursing and rural crime. By strengthening penalties and acknowledging the wider harm caused, the new guidelines send a clear message that criminal behaviour in the countryside will not be tolerated.

66

MOTORS

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AION’S first retailers open for business The first wave of AION retail and service sites in the UK have opened their doors to the public. Located strategically in or near major towns and cities, the first wave of sites is a strong statement of intent from AION, signalling the ambition for the upper-mainstream brand to grow sustainably over the long-term. The brand is on track to expand its retail footprint to 15 sites by the end of June, with a target of doubling that to 30 by the end of the year.

Each site will operate fullyfledged retail showrooms alongside service and parts facilities to support the industry-leading ‘AION Great 8’ ownership proposition.

The brand’s debut model, the AION V electric family SUV, is available for test drive, with first customer deliveries now imminent.

Sales teams and aftersales technicians across all first wave locations have completed comprehensive brand- and product-specific training programmes to ensure they are fully equipped to provide the highest levels of service to customers from the get-go.

List of sites:

MOTORS

• • •

AION Beverley (Right Car) AION Leeds (JCT600) AION Newcastle (Richard

• • • • • •

Hardie) AION Newton Abbot (Speedwell) AION Shrewsbury (Sailhouse Cars) AION Slough (Jameel Motors) AION Swansea (Bassetts) AION Winchester (Martins Group) And further sites coming soon to Leicester, Nottingham, Derby and Cardiff

Customers in areas of the country not covered by

these first retail sites can discuss finance quotes and place orders through AION’s dedicated UK-based concierge customer contact centre. And routine service, maintenance and repair coverage is available nationwide through an agreement with the AA to use its accredited workshops and mobile technicians.

“We’ve been preparing for this moment for over 18 months, and it’s a major milestone to see the first retailers go live, welcome customers and offer test drives,” said Jon

Wakefield, Managing Director of AION Auto UK. “We have a great car in the AION V, and more models will join it in the showrooms soon. But for us, it’s not only about a great product, we’ve also focused on the quality of the purchase and ownership experience for customers, too.

“Together with these retailer partners, we’re committed to driving a new standard, and that includes our industry-leading AION Great 8 Promise, which will help in our unrelenting focus on building trust in the brand.”

The AION V all-electric family SUV boasts a distinctive exterior, a spacious and luxurious interior fully loaded with comfort and convenience features, and class-leading range and charging speed.

Every AION V will include the Great 8 effortless ownership proposition, which provides eight years of confidenceinspiring cover across the vehicle’s warranty, servicing, roadside assistance and MOT. Prices start from £36,450 OTR, with flexible PCP offers over 18 - 48 months starting from £379 per month (2.9 percent APR Representative)* through AION Financial Services. (* For full terms and conditions, visit: www.aionauto. co.uk)

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MOTORS 67

68

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VAUXHALL VIVA - 2018

1.0i SE Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (73 ps) ** PETROL...... 5 SPEED........LOW MILEAGE ONLY 81,883 MILES..........SERVICE HISTORY.........1 PREVIOUS OWNER.........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 4 ........ 61 MPG...

£3,995

KIA PICANTO 2015

1.25 EcoDynamics 3 Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 5 (s/s) (84 bhp) ** PETROL.........5 SPEED........LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 57,007 MILES......... 1 PREVIOUS OWNER.

£5,795

FORD FOCUS - 2019

BMW 5 SERIES 2013

KIA SPORTAGE 2013

1.5 EcoBlue Titanium Estate 5dr Diesel Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (120 ps) ** DIESEL..........ESTATE.........6 SPEED.........78,903 MILES...........£195 ROAD TAX......... 61 MPG.........2 KEYS....

2.0 520d SE Saloon 4dr Diesel Auto Euro 5 (s/s) (184 ps) ** DIESEL.........

8 SPEED AUTOMATIC..........LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 90,505 MILES..........SERVICE HISTORY...........2 KEYS........£165 ROAD TAX......... 68 MPG.........

2.0 CRDi KX-3 SUV 5dr Diesel Auto AWD Euro 5 (134 bhp)** AUTOMATIC.........DIESEL.........4 WHEEL DRIVE.......

1 PREVIOUS OWNER.........LOVELY SERVICE HISTORY 11 STAMPS...

£8,995

NISSAN X-TRAIL 2017

1.6 dCi Tekna SUV 5dr Diesel Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (130 ps) ** DIESEL........6 SPEED........7 SEATER........LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 83,786 MILES........SERVICE HISTORY.........2 KEYS........£200 ROAD TAX.........61 MPG.........TEKNA EDITION....

£9,995

£6,495

MERCEDES-BENZ A-CLASS - 2015

£5,295

AUDI A5 - 2010

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VAUXHALL CORSA - 2015

1.2i Sting Hatchback 3dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (70 ps) ** PETROL.........5 SPEED...........LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 70,388 MILES..........SERVICE HISTORY 10 STAMPS........ 2 KEYS.........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 2........ 62 MPG.........STING EDITION...

£4,795

l

FORD B-MAX 2014

1.5 A180 CDI Sport Edition Hatchback 5dr Diesel Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (109 ps) ** DIESEL........6 SPEED.......

LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 58,187 MILES..........SERVICE HISTORY.........£20 ROAD TAX......... 78 MPG.........SPORT EDITION..

2.7 TDI V6 SE Coupe 2dr Diesel Multitronic Euro 5 (190 ps) ** DIESEL.........8 SPEED AUTOMATIC......... 1 OWNER FROM NEW..........YES ONLY COVERED 49,053 MILES FROM NEW..........

SERVICE HISTORY 6 STAMPS.......SE EDITION......

1.4 Zetec MPV 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 5 (90 ps) ** PETROL.......5 SPEED.........1 PREVIOUS OWNER.........92,834 MILES...........SERVICE HISTORY 8 STAMPS........£195 ROAD TAX......

£7,995

£5,995

£4,495

VOLKSWAGEN UP! - 2014

KIA SPORTAGE - 2015

KIA SOUL 2018

KIA SPORTAGE - 2017

VOLVO V40 - 2016

1.0 High up! Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 5 (75 ps) ** PETROL.......5 SPEED.......LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 60,320 MILES.........SERVICE HISTORY 5 STAMPS........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 2..........£20 ROAD TAX..

2.0 CRDi KX-3 SUV 5dr Diesel Auto AWD Euro 5 (134 bhp) ** DIESEL.........

AUTOMATIC......... 1 OWNER FROM NEW...........FULL SERVICE HISTORY 9 STAMPS........ 4 WHEEL DRIVE.........2 KEYS..

1.6 GDi 2 SUV 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (130 bhp) ** PETROL......6 SPEED........

1 OWNER FROM NEW.........96,011 MILES.........2 KEYS.......£195 ROAD TAX.........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 11.........2 EDITION..........HUGE SPEC

1.7 CRDi 3 SUV 5dr Diesel Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (114 bhp) **NEW MODEL...... DIESEL........ 6 SPEED........90,821 MILES FROM NEW...........SERVICE HISTORY.........£200 ROAD TAX.........

LOW INSURANCE GROUP 13............2 KEYS........67 MPG..........EURO 6......

2.0 D3 R-Design Hatchback 5dr Diesel Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (150 ps) ** DIESEL....... 6 SPEED..........LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 80,646 MILES FROM NEW..

£5,995

£8,395

£7,395

£8,495

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VAUXHALL MOKKA - 2016

DACIA SANDERO 2017

AUDI A1- 2012

DACIA SANDERO STEPWAY 2015

MG MG3 - 2018

1.6i Exclusiv SUV 5dr Petrol Manual 2WD Euro 6 (s/s) (115 ps) ** PETROL........5 SPEED........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 6 ..........49 MPG..........2 KEYS.......EXCLUSIV EDITION.........MEDIA SCREEN........CRUISE CONTROL

1.0 SCe Ambiance Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (75 ps) ** PETROL........5 SPEED......... 1 OWNER FROM NEW........FULL SERVICE HISTORY.........

LOW INSURANCE GROUP 4..........67 MPG.........AMBIANCE EDITION....

1.4 TFSI Sport Hatchback 3dr Petrol Manual Euro 5 (s/s) (122 ps) ** PETROL.......6 SPEED.........1 PREVIOUS OWNER.......SERVICE HISTORY..........2 KEYS....... £170 ROAD TAX...........64 MPG........SPORT EDITION.

0.9 TCe Ambiance Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (90 ps) ** PETROL.......5 SPEED......... 1 OWNER FROM NEW.........LOW MILEAGE YES ONLY COVERED 63,951 MILES...........

SERVICE HISTORY 6 STAMPS...

1.5 VTi-TECH 3Form Sport Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (106 ps) ** PETROL.......5 SPEED......... 1 OWNER FROM NEW.........LOW MILEAGE ONLY COVERED 59,993 MILES...

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70

MOTORS

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MOTORS 71

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The new Audi Q4 e-tron: UK pricing and specification confirmed

Audi sharpens its electric bestseller. The updated Q4 e‑tron is now on sale in the UK, priced from £46,260 (OTR), bringing a cleaner design, upgraded technology and improved range. Available as both SUV and Sportback, the enhanced Q4 e-tron combines a more assertive exterior with a more connected, intuitive cabin.

Range increases to up to 360 miles on a single charge, while faster charging and the introduction of bidirectional capability strengthen its day-to-day usability. First UK deliveries are expected later this summer.

“The Audi Q4 e‑tron has been a standout success for the brand in the UK. Last year it ranked as the third bestselling electric vehicle and Audi’s second bestselling model overall.

With this latest round of

updates, the fully electric model is well placed to build on that position in an increasingly competitive market,” said Audi UK Director, José Miguel Aparicio Matching the Q4 e-tron’s new look is a refreshed trim level structure that comprises: Sport, S line, Black Edition, and Vorsprung specifications.

A full overview of the Audi Q4 e-tron’s design and technical upgrades can be found here.

The Q4 e‑tron Sport sets a strong baseline, with a f o c u s e d blend of

technology, comfort and everyday usability. Clean exterior styling includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting and aluminium detailing.

Inside, the new-look cabin is clean and uncluttered, with heated front sport seats, three-zone climate control and ambient lighting. A 12.8inch MMI Navigation Plus display and 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit are the car’s digital hub, supported by wireless smartphone integration and twin inductive charging trays.

S line specification sharpens the Q4 e‑tron’s visual and dynamic edge.

20-inch alloy wheels, S line styling and privacy glass give it a more assertive stance, while sports suspension and progressive steering add extra precision on the road. The interior adopts a darker, more purposeful feel, with black headlining, aluminium inlays and illuminated S door sills.

Leather sport seats with embossed detailing and a flat-bottom steering wheel complete the look, reinforcing its more driver-focused character.

Black Edition adds a more dramatic look. Gloss black detailing and Audi Sport alloy wheels create a bold, highcontrast finish. Inside, comfort takes a step up with electrically adjustable front seats, heated front and outer rear seats, and upgraded materials throughout, alongside auxiliary air conditioning for added convenience.

At the top of the range, Vorsprung brings the Q4 e‑tron’s most advanced technology into one fully equipped package. Matrix LED headlights and OLED rear lights deliver a distinctive lighting signature, while 21-inch wheels and a panoramic glass sunroof complete the exterior. Inside, highlights include a front passenger display, SONOS premium audio and dynamic ambient lighting. Advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise assist plus and an augmented reality head-up display, underline its flagship status.

72

BUSINESS

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Rail delays and cancellations fall after regulator intervention

BUSINESS

PASSENGERS in Wales and the West of England are seeing fewer train cancellations and slightly better punctuality following action by the rail regulator.

The Office of Rail and Road has formally closed enforcement action against Network Rail after monitoring a long-term performance improvement plan for its Wales and Western region.

The plan followed an investigation in 2024, which found that Network Rail’s infrastructure and working practices were contributing to poor train performance across the region.

Since August 2024, Network Rail says cancellations have fallen by more than a fifth, while the proportion of trains arriving within three minutes of their scheduled time has improved from 77.6% to 79.4%.

The improvements followed work on track, overhead line equipment, axle counters and points in the Thames Valley area, as well as flood resilience work at Chipping Sodbury.

Network Rail has also introduced welfare officers at key Thames Valley stations to help prevent trespass and has made changes to train control, timetable planning, incident learning and the management of stranded trains.

Graham Richards, Director of Planning and Performance at the Office of Rail and Road, said: “Following concerted efforts from Network Rail, and continued engagement by our teams at ORR, I am pleased to see that passengers in Wales and Western are experiencing better, more reliable train services.

“Nevertheless, we know

that for many passengers train performance is not what they would expect – so we are continuing to work with train operators and Network Rail across the country on how to further improve performance.”

Mark Killick, Network Rail’s Managing Director for Wales and Western Region, said: “Customers are seeing a more

reliable railway, reflecting the extensive improvements we’ve delivered over the last two years.

“We know delays and cancellations still impact journeys, so while this progress is a positive step, we continue to work closely with our industry partners to deliver an ever more reliable railway for our customers.”

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Pembrokeshire workers among Wales’ higher earners, new study finds

PEMBROKESHIRE workers are among the higher earners in Wales, according to new research analysing full-time weekly pay across the country.

The study by CV Maker, using Office for National Statistics data from April 2025, placed Pembrokeshire eighth out of Wales’ 22 local authority areas for median gross weekly earnings.

Full-time workers in Pembrokeshire earn an average of £711.30 per week, putting the county slightly above the Welsh average of £704.

The figure also places Pembrokeshire ahead of Swansea, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, Powys and Gwynedd.

By comparison, Monmouthshire was named the highest-paid area in Wales, with full-time workers earning an average of £773.50 per week.

Merthyr Tydfil recorded the lowest figure, at £619.20 per week.

That means the gap between the highest and lowest-paid areas in Wales is £154.30 per week, equivalent to more than £8,000 a year.

Pembrokeshire’s average weekly earnings are £7.30 above the Welsh average, but £62.20 below Monmouthshire.

The figures also show a marked difference between Pembrokeshire and neighbouring Carmarthenshire, where fulltime workers earn an average of £657.70 per week. That puts Pembrokeshire workers £53.60 per week better off on average, or around £2,787 a year.

Ceredigion sits closer to

Pembrokeshire, with average weekly earnings of £675.70 — £35.60 lower than Pembrokeshire.

The research ranked the ten highest-paid areas in Wales as Monmouthshire, Newport, Flintshire, Cardiff, Bridgend, Wrexham, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, Swansea and the Isle of Anglesey.

Nicky Klaasse, CEO at CV Maker, said: “These figures highlight the significant wage disparities across different regions

in Wales.

“While the national average weekly earnings sit at £704, there’s a notable £154 gap between the highest and lowest-paying areas.

“For job seekers in Wales, this data provides valuable insights into where the highest earning potential might be found.”

The company said the figures were based on ONS median gross weekly earnings for fulltime employees, ranked by local authority.

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Cardiff Airport passes one million passengers as growth continues CARDIFF AIRPORT has welcomed more than one million passengers over the past 12 months, marking a major milestone in its continued recovery.

New Civil Aviation Authority figures also show the airport was the secondfastest growing in the UK in the first quarter of 2026, with passenger numbers up 24 per cent compared with the same period last year.

The airport said the growth reflected increasing demand for flights from Wales, with airlines expanding services and adding more destinations.

New routes boost numbers Recent developments include the launch of WestJet’s direct Cardiff to Toronto service, offering onward connections across Canada and the United States.

TUI is also basing a fourth aircraft at Cardiff this summer, with new destinations including Hurghada in Egypt, Faro in Portugal, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, and Kittilä in Finland.

Crystal Ski has introduced new winter flights to Turin in Italy, following strong demand for Chambéry in France and Salzburg in Austria.

Additional TUI capacity has also been added to Antalya, Gran Canaria, Palma, Enfidha and Tenerife.

Rugby fans add to milestone Cardiff Airport said more than 19,000 international rugby fans travelled through the airport during the EPCR Challenge Cup Final, Investec Champions Cup Final and Six Nations fixtures.

The airport has also reported a 14 per cent rise in passengers compared with the 2024/25 financial year, while Ryanair is operating its busiest-ever summer programme from Cardiff.

Jon Bridge, chief executive of Cardiff Airport, said: “Welcoming more than one million passengers is a major milestone for Cardiff Airport and a clear sign of the growing demand for flights from Wales.

“To be recognised by the Civil Aviation Authority as the second fastestgrowing airport in the UK is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work of our colleagues and partners, as well as the confidence passengers and airlines continue to place in Cardiff.

“We are focused on building on this momentum, expanding connectivity and delivering long-term benefits for Wales and the wider economy.”

Push to restore Qatar link Despite the recent growth, questions remain over whether Cardiff Airport can restore one of its most important longhaul connections — the direct Qatar Airways service to Doha.

The route, which launched in 2018 and provided a key global hub connection to Asia, Australia and the Middle East, was suspended during the Covid pandemic and has yet to return.

Cardiff remains the only former UK Qatar Airways destination not to have seen the service resume after the pandemic.

Efforts to bring the airline back are continuing. The Welsh Government has previously said Cardiff Airport executives remain in commercial negotiations with Qatar Airways over the possible return of the Doha route, with ministers saying they would welcome its resumption when the timing is right for both sides.

The loss of the service has been keenly felt by business and leisure travellers from Wales, many of whom now travel via London, Birmingham or Manchester for long-haul flights.

Before its suspension, the Doha route offered onward connections to destinations across Asia, Australasia and the Far East, including Thailand, Japan and Australia.

Conservative Senedd Member for the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend, Andrew RT Davies, said the airport’s failure to secure the return of Qatar Airways

remained a concern.

He welcomed the latest passenger figures, describing them as “promising and encouraging”, but said the absence of the Doha service from the airport’s next steps suggested its return was “looking less and less likely”.

The Qatar Airways service to Doha was suspended at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. While the airline has since resumed services from other UK airports, Cardiff has not yet seen the route restored.

Mr Davies said: “It’s promising and encouraging to see Cardiff Airport attracted over a million passengers last year.

“But it’s concerning that the Airport hasn’t listed the return of Qatar Airways as part of its next steps.

“Qatar have resumed flights at every other British Airport other than Welsh Government owned Cardiff – if it’s to become profitable it needs to attract carriers of this profile.”

Economic impact Cardiff Airport says it supports thousands of jobs across South Wales and contributes more than £200 million annually to the Welsh economy.

Alongside passenger growth, the airport said cargo remains a major strategic focus, with opportunities to grow freight capacity, attract new commercial partnerships and strengthen the airport’s long-term resilience.

74

HEALTH

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Connecting health and care key to cutting waiting times

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HEALTH

A NEW report has called for every stage of Wales’ health and care system to be better connected in order to improve patient outcomes and reduce waiting times.

The Bevan Commission, Wales’ leading independent health and care think tank, has published Chain Reaction: Managing patient flows across health and care systems and services.

The paper examines the causes of poor patient flow and sets out ways to reduce

pressure on services, including earlier intervention, better community support, improved use of digital tools and closer working between health, social care and local services.

It identifies seven key areas affecting how patients move through the system: people and communities, primary and community care, social care and care homes, urgent community support, 111 and transport, emergency and minor injury care, outpatient and diagnostic services, and

hospital assessment, treatment and discharge.

The commission warns that simply moving pressure from one part of the system to another will not solve the problem, and says whole-system planning is needed.

Tools such as telehealth, digital medicines, virtual wards, social prescribing and quicker responses to falls are highlighted as ways to improve patient flow and help people manage their own health more effectively.

Bevan Commission Director Dr Helen Howson said: “Health and social care services are facing huge demands and we know that we are only going to face even bigger pressures.

The population in Wales is living longer, but more unhealthily.

We are seeing a doubling of the over-90s and an increase in dementia.

“We believe that health is a shared responsibility, extending beyond the NHS, to include local government, workplaces, people and communities.

Preventing unnecessary admissions into the system and enabling people to better manage their own health and wellbeing will be critical to help

reduce demand for clinical services.”

The report says prevention and early intervention will be essential if Wales is to reduce the number of people relying on formal care services.

It also highlights programmes such as Education Programmes for Patients Cymru, which helps people living with long-term conditions and their carers gain the skills and confidence to manage their own health.

Where formal care is needed, the commission says patients must be involved in designing services around their needs.

It also calls for better realtime data and digital systems to improve communication between care teams.

Dr Howson added: “This paper highlights the interdependencies of all parts of the system and the impact of one upon the other. It reinforces the urgency for whole system planning and transformation, built around patient needs.

“By connecting every part of care, we can reduce inefficiencies, improve outcomes and better meet the evolving needs of people now and in the future.”

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Dementia’s impact on daily life hitting carers hard in Wales ALMOST 50,000 people in Wales are living with dementia, but new research suggests the condition is placing a heavy emotional, financial and practical strain on families and unpaid carers.

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru said the impact of dementia stretches far beyond those diagnosed, with many relatives carrying the burden quietly behind closed doors.

A UK-wide survey of more than 2,000 people, carried out for the charity’s annual Forget Me Not Appeal, found that 61 per cent of people in Wales say dementia affects their day-to-day life.

The research also found that 48 per cent of carers in Wales said supporting someone with dementia had negatively affected their mental health.

Across the UK, 56 per cent of carers said caring had damaged their mental health, while 70 per cent feared the stress was affecting their own health and wellbeing.

Many also said they were hiding the emotional strain from others, with nearly two-thirds saying they concealed how they felt from friends and family to avoid being a burden.

‘Like grieving’ Stephanie Marks, from Llanelli, cares for her brother Gareth, who has dementia and is now living in a care home in Swansea.

She said: “The impacts on us were constant worry, tiredness, financial cost

“Her church put on a party for her and people donated. She ended up raising £1,000.”

Call for support

and restriction of our own lives. But we cared for Gareth willingly and gladly. We love him and it was painful to see him slipping away while the system took its time. Like grieving.

“One of the hardest things was clearing his home once he was in care.

It was a dismantling of our shared lives.

I felt guilty that I couldn’t put it all right.

“I love visiting my brother but I worry constantly about his declining physical and mental health. I feel a huge weight of responsibility for ensuring his care needs are met. He can’t fight for himself so I have to do it for him.

“I wish I’d been more assertive in the very early stages and insisted on better attention when the system failed him.

Carers shouldn’t have to struggle for attention and action. Vulnerable people like Gareth deserve far better.”

Fundraising at 100 Stephanie and Gareth’s mother, Peggy Hoare-Davies, who lives in Port Talbot, recently marked her 100th birthday by raising money for Alzheimer’s Society.

Stephanie said: “Mum visits him in the care home. They have activities like Halloween and Christmas parties.

When mum was approaching her 100th birthday people asked what she wanted and she wanted to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society.

Rachel Nelson, Alzheimer’s Society Country Manager for Wales, said families affected by dementia often face overwhelming pressures.

She said: “Every day, we see the reality of dementia across Wales. Behind every diagnosis are families navigating emotional, financial and practical pressures that can quickly become overwhelming.

“Too often people feel they’re facing this alone, which is why local support is so vital. At Alzheimer’s Society, we’re here to make sure no one has to go through dementia without help, guidance and someone to turn to.

“Through local services like Singing for the Brain groups, Alzheimer’s Society helps people affected by dementia feel supported, connected and understood.”

The charity is encouraging people in Wales to support its Forget Me Not Appeal during June by wearing a Forget Me Not badge.

The badge is intended as a symbol of the ongoing and often unseen weight carried by families affected by dementia.

Alzheimer’s Society said money raised through the appeal will help fund support services and dementia research.

More information is available at alzheimers.org.uk/forgetmenot

Welsh Conservatives call for action on antisemitism in NHS WELSH CONSERVATIVES have called on the Welsh Government to set out what action it will take to tackle antisemitism in the Welsh NHS. Natasha Asghar MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, has written to Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor following recommendations made

by Lord Mann, the UK Government’s independent adviser on antisemitism.

The letter follows Lord Mann’s UKwide review and asks what steps, if any, the Welsh Government intends to take in NHS Wales.

Lord Mann’s review recommended banning NHS staff from wearing political badges on uniforms, strengthening accountability for NHS managers, and improving the recording and monitoring of racist incidents.

In her letter, Ms Asghar said the NHS should be “an apolitical organisation, where everyone feels safe”.

She said: “It is incredibly alarming that Lord Mann’s report revealed evidence of routine ostracism of Jewish staff in the NHS, with some leaving, and highlighted that Jewish

people are avoiding seeking care due to fear of being subjected to antisemitism.

“With increased attacks and threats against Jewish communities, now is the time to act and the Welsh

Government has a responsibility to do just that.

“The Cabinet Minister for Health must urgently outline what action the government will be taking within the Welsh NHS to combat antisemitism.”

Ms Asghar has asked whether the Welsh Government will commit to bringing forward a ban on NHS staff wearing political badges on uniforms.

The Herald has approached the Welsh Government for comment.

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POLITICS

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Political row over taxpayer funding for media outlets MINISTERS have been accused of failing to ensure political neutrality among media organisations receiving Welsh Government funding.

Conservative Senedd member Andrew RT Davies challenged Plaid Cymru Culture Secretary Heledd Fychan over whether public money should be withdrawn from any media organisation found not to be politically neutral.

The row follows written questions tabled by Mr Davies, who asked whether the Welsh Government considered Nation.

Cymru’s output to be politically neutral.

In response, Ms Fychan said the Welsh Government “does not hold a position on the political neutrality of individual media outlets in Wales”, but added that an impartial media was “critical to a functioning democracy”.

She said concerns over perceived bias in print and online newspapers were handled by the Independent Press Standards Organisation.

However, Mr Davies claimed that answer was wrong, pointing to IPSO guidance which says newspapers and magazines are allowed to be partisan generally, including in election coverage, provided the Editors’ Code is not otherwise breached.

Funding question In a second written question, Mr Davies asked whether the Welsh Government would commit to withdrawing public funds from any media organisations that are not politically neutral.

Ms Fychan replied that it was not for the Welsh Government to determine what constituted a deviation from political neutrality by a media organisation.

She added: “However, as stated previously, we expect all media outlets in receipt of Welsh Government funds to operate without distinct political bias.”

Mr Davies said the answer showed ministers were failing to properly police the use of taxpayers’ money.

He said: “Plaid Cymru separatists are giving certain media outlets taxpayer funds, yet are taking no action to ensure their output is politically neutral.

“They wrongly stated complaints should be referred to IPSO, despite the organisation having no powers to prevent political bias.

“This is simultaneously incompetent and a serious misuse of taxpayers’ money.”

Welsh Government stance The Welsh Government’s position is that it does not make rulings on the political neutrality of individual media outlets, while expecting organisations receiving public funds to avoid distinct political bias.

The dispute is likely to fuel wider debate over public support for journalism in Wales, particularly where funding is awarded to outlets that also publish political commentary or opinion-led material.

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POLITICS

Council tax uncertainty as Welsh Government reviews 2028 revaluation REFORM WALES has accused the Plaid Cymru Welsh Government of creating uncertainty over future council tax bills after ministers declined to confirm whether a planned revaluation of homes will go ahead in 2028.

The revaluation forms part of wider council tax reform approved under the Local Government Finance (Wales) Act 2024. The Welsh Government has previously said the changes are intended to make the system fairer and more progressive, with regular revaluations every five years.

However, Local Government Minister Siân Gwenllian has said the issue is under review, with further decisions to be set out in due course.

Reform Wales said residents needed clarity at a time when many households were already facing rising bills.

Francesca O’Brien MS, Reform Wales’ Shadow

Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, said: “Plaid Cymru’s uncertainty on council tax reform demonstrates a lack of clear decision-making and will do little to reassure hardpressed households already facing rising bills.

“Reform Wales believes those who pay the bills should have the final say. That’s why we would introduce local

referendums on any council tax rise above 4.99%, preventing excessive increases and putting more money back into people’s pockets.”

Supporters of reform argue that Wales’ council tax system is outdated, with property values still largely based on valuations from 2003. They say revaluation could make the system fairer by ensuring households in

lower-value homes are not disproportionately burdened.

Critics, however, fear that any revaluation could create winners and losers, with some households facing higher bills depending on how property values have changed in their area.

The Welsh Government has said further details will be provided once its review is complete.

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New members appointed to Senedd Commission – but what is it, and what will they do?

blue view With Brian Murphy

CONSERVATIVE Andrew RT Davies, Welsh Labour’s Vikki Howells, Reform’s Laura Anne Jones, and Plaid Cymru’s Peredur Owen Griffiths have all been appointed to the Senedd Commission. But what is it, and what will they do?

Their appointments come following Rhun ap Iorwerth’s inaugural First Minister’s Questions, and the appointment of a new counsel general on Tuesday June 2.

The Government of Wales Act 2006 created a legally separate Welsh Government and corporate body, which became known as the Senedd Commission, or originally the National Assembly for Wales Commission.

As the corporate entity for the Welsh Parliament, the Senedd Commission has responsibility over the Senedd’s property, staff, and services to support Senedd Members.

Senedd standing orders – written rules which govern Senedd proceedings – say that commissioners must be appointed as soon as is reasonably practicable after the election.

The commission consists of four MSs, who should each belong to a different political group, and is chaired by the Llywydd, or presiding officer.

If there are four or more

political groups in the Senedd, the four largest groups must inform the business committee of who they wish from their group to be appointed to the commission.

If there are less than four groups, the business committee will decide the names of any additional members.

According to the Welsh Parliament, the commission is “responsible for the long-term success of the Senedd”, helping to make it “a strong, accessible, and forward-looking democratic institution and legislature that serves effectively the people of Wales”.

Members appointed to the commission act as the “governing board” for the Welsh Parliament, and are responsible for overseeing the delivery of its aims.

Importantly, the commissioners have collective responsibility for decisions, with each having equal status in discussions.

Plaid Cymru, Reform UK, the Welsh Conservatives, and Welsh Labour have appointed a member each to the commission.

Plaid Cymru’s pick was Casnewydd Islwyn MS Peredur Owen Griffiths, who has been a member of the Senedd since 2021.

Mr Owen Griffiths has previously been a member of numerous Senedd groups

covering a wide range of topics, including older people and ageing, housing, gambling related harm, and more.

Laura Anne Jones, of Sir Fynwy Torfaen, is Reform’s choice. Ms Jones previously represented the Conservatives for the South Wales East region, but defected to Reform in July 2025.

Labour’s chief whip and spokesperson for environment, farming, energy, and transport, Vikki Howells, of Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr, has also been appointed. Ms Howells, who was first elected in 2016, served as minister for further and higher education under the last Welsh Government.

She is also a former history teacher, and assistant head of sixth form, at Caerphilly’s St Cenydd Comprehensive School.

Meanwhile, Andrew RT Davies – a former Welsh Conservative leader – has also secured a role within the commission. The Pen-y-Bont Bro Morgannwg MS has served as an MS since 2007 and is currently the Conservative spokesperson for farming and the environment.

The commission will be chaired by Labour’s former Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, who is now the Senedd’s Llywydd.

Welsh Conservative MS Andrew RT Davies

I was utterly shocked at the brutal murder of Henry Nowak and am appalled at the way this tragedy has been used by others to promote their own particular agendas.

Particularly the abuse and violence which has been targeted towards police officers, including an officer who had left the service a year before this incident took place. It is disgraceful that, as a society, we are allowing mistruths, lies and disinformation to be peddled unchallenged.

As a former police officer I had been in situations similar to what occurred in Southampton last December. I have had many people claim injuries, unconsciousness or serious illness to avoid arrest. I’ve also faced offenders who have claimed to be the victim.

I have not handcuffed a compliant prisoner, only to be seriously assaulted by them, and I still have the scars from the broken bones I sustained. When it is late at night, dark, cold, mid-winter and persons are wearing thick clothing injuries are not always easy to see. Information is also confusing and the officers who attend any scene of any incident must try and make sense of it all. Police officers are also human, and I am sure that the officers who attended to Henry would have been experiencing all sorts of emotions as they tried to assimilate all the information and make sense of it.

What has not been reported widely, and should be, are the sentencing remarks from His Honour Judge William Mousley K.C. when he clearly identified that the sole person responsible for the death of Henry Nowak is Vickrum Digwa.

He highlighted that Digwa repeatedly lied to the officers and “hampered” police efforts at the scene.

Below is an extract from the Judges’s remarks and

I would urge anyone to read the full transcript, written by someone who has seen and heard all the evidence and not just an edited video clip.

“Another consequence of those lies is that the attending police officers honestly believed that there were reasonable grounds for suspecting Henry had committed an offence and arrested him with the consequence he was handcuffed for about a minute before his condition further deteriorated and the arresting officer began CPR. The police were given a convincing but wholly false narrative of the incident. It was dark and Henry was wearing a dark top. The entry damage caused by the knife through it, would not have been obvious. Whilst there was visible blood on Henry, it would not have clearly been seen coming from that wound and the clearly visible facial wound was not life threatening.

Henry was complaining that he had been stabbed and was struggling to breathe but that would not have necessarily told the officers how serious the situation had become.

It is the experience of the criminal courts that sometimes, someone arrested and handcuffed will feign injury in the hope they may be released.

These police officers were faced with having to make quick decisions in pressurised circumstances about the best way to act.

The genuine shock to the particular police officer, when he realised that he had been giving CPR to Henry when he had a serious chest wound tends to show that he was doing his best in a very difficult situation.”

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POLITICS

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positively liberal With ANDREW LYE

Following the furore over the murder of Henry Nowak, Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP has commented upon comments made by the Trump administration, saying: “The three main Parliamentary party leaders were right to call for calm, respect and unity yesterday.

“The Trump Administration should not be using the tragic murder of Henry Nowak as a political football.

“This is flagrant foreign interference that seeks to fan the flames of division and the Prime Minister should summon the US Ambassador immediately.”

The Liberal Democrats have also called on the Government to cancel its £1 billion “Trump-appeasement purchase” for US F-35As and use the money saved to order 12 new British-made Typhoon jets.

The call comes exactly a year after the publication of the Strategic Defence Review and the Government’s commitment to purchase the US jets, during which time Donald Trump has repeatedly undermined global security.

From threatening key NATO allies, including the UK, to launching an illegal war in Iran, Trump’s actions have proven his unreliability as an ally, and cast doubt on the White House’s commitment to transatlantic collective defence.

The Liberal Democrats are therefore urging the Government to cancel its order and purchase Britishbuilt Typhoons instead. The UK manufactures over double the number of parts for the Eurofighter programme than for American F-35s.

The Liberal Democrats argue that switching to Typhoons would secure British skills and jobs, provide the UK with a genuinely sovereign military capability, and save the taxpayer up to £516 million - money that could be reinvested directly back into boosting defence

spending.

Keir Starmer justified the decision to buy the F-35A fighter jets on the basis that they would be able to carry tactical nuclear weapons, before it was subsequently confirmed that he would need to seek the US President’s approval before using them.

Liberal Democrat Defence Spokesperson James MacCleary MP said: “Donald Trump is taking a sledgehammer to global security, insulting Britain and tearing up the rulesbased international order. Yet rather than building the UK’s strategic independence from an unreliable White House, Keir Starmer has remained wedded to his eye-watering Trump-appeasement order of US jets.

“This was a staggeringly short-sighted decision by the Prime Minister at the time and has only been vindicated

by Trump’s increasingly erratic and illegal foreign policy behaviour. Even if the Prime Minister thought it was right to be expanding the UK’s nuclear arsenal in this way, giving total control over the use of this capability to Donald Trump is strategically illiterate.

“We cannot be increasing our reliance on US technology at a time when the President is tearing up the rules-based order and threatening our allies. Ministers need to wake up to reality, cancel this misguided F-35A order, and buy British instead. By investing in Typhoons, we can support our own highskilled industrial base, secure a genuinely sovereign military capability, and save over £500 million to reinvest elsewhere in our overstretched armed forces. The Government should put British security and British jobs first.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

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Badenoch calls for equality duty on public services to be scrapped

KEMI BADENOCH has called for the abolition of the legal duty requiring public bodies to consider equality when making decisions.

The Conservative leader said the Public Sector Equality Duty had become a burden on schools, hospitals, police forces and councils, claiming it had allowed “dangerous and divisive agendas” to take hold across public services.

The duty, introduced under the Equality Act 2010, applies to public authorities in England, Scotland and Wales. It requires them to have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations between people with and without protected characteristics.

Those protected characteristics include age, disability, race, sex, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, and sexual orientation.

Badenoch said the duty had created a “minefield” around public decision-making, leaving major decisions vulnerable to legal challenge.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Tuesday morning, she said the public sector aspect of the Act had failed to allow for “common sense”.

She said people in public services had become scared to do their jobs properly “in case they were called racist”.

The Conservatives say the proposal is part of a wider programme to “restore common sense” in public life. The party

argues that the equality duty has encouraged diversity, equality and inclusion bureaucracy, ideological box-ticking, and confusion within public services.

Shadow equalities minister Claire Coutinho said public bodies were increasingly “obsessing” over equality rather than focusing on their core duties.

She said police officers, in particular, were being forced to make difficult decisions while navigating equality guidance that could cloud their judgement.

Haverfordwest Badenoch also referred to a number of high-profile cases, including the Nottingham attacks carried out by Valdo Calocane, the fatal stabbing of an 18-yearold Henry Nowak in Southampton

by Vickrum Digwa, and the Manchester Arena bombing carried out by Salman Abedi.

Calocane, who killed three people in Nottingham in June 2023, has strong links to Pembrokeshire. He was from Haverfordwest, attended Sir Thomas Picton School, now Haverfordwest High VC School, and his parents still believed to live in the town.

The case remains highly sensitive, with previous criticism focused on police and health service failings in the lead-up to the killings. Badenoch suggested such cases had fuelled concerns that frontline agencies had become too cautious in exercising judgement for fear of

accusations of discrimination.

Badenoch was also in Pembrokeshire last month, visiting Pembroke Refinery, where she spoke to The Herald about the upcoming Senedd elections.

Political divide The Equality and Human Rights Commission defended the duty, saying it helps public bodies make better decisions by considering the impact of their actions on all those affected.

The issue has become a dividing line between the main political parties. Reform UK has said the Conservatives are not going far enough, arguing that the Equality Act itself should be scrapped.

The Liberal Democrats accused Badenoch of trying to reignite culture war politics, while Labour is preparing to publish a new equality and diversity strategy focused heavily on class and socio-economic background.

The government says its plan will aim to improve access to the civil service for people from working-class and regional backgrounds, and address the over-representation of people from wealthier families in senior public roles.

The Public Sector Equality Duty has previously been used in legal challenges against councils and government departments, including cases involving library closures, care home fees, and the Home Office’s treatment of the Windrush generation.

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Plaid MPs criticised over single-sex services code

ALL FOUR Plaid Cymru MPs have been criticised after signing a Westminster motion opposing the UK Government’s draft Equality Act Code of Practice on services, public functions and associations.

The motion, tabled on Monday (Jun 1), calls for the draft Code to be disapproved. It has been signed by 95 MPs, including Labour, Liberal Democrat, SNP, Green and Plaid Cymru members.

Plaid’s four MPs — Liz Saville Roberts, Ben Lake, Llinos Medi and Ann Davies — all added their names on Wednesday (Jun 3).

The draft Code was laid before Parliament on May 21 following the Supreme Court judgment on the meaning of sex in the Equality Act. The Equality and Human Rights Commission says the updated guidance is intended to help service providers, public bodies and associations understand how to comply with equality law.

The Code covers all protected characteristics, but the most politically sensitive part concerns single-sex and separate-sex services, including facilities such as hospital wards, changing rooms, toilets and domestic abuse services.

Supporters of the Code say it gives legal clarity for women-only

spaces and reflects the Supreme Court ruling. Critics argue it risks excluding trans people from services and could create uncertainty for organisations trying to balance competing rights.

Natasha Asghar MS, Welsh Conservative Member of the Senedd for Casnewydd Islwyn, said Plaid Cymru must explain its position to women in Wales.

She said: “Women in Wales deserve clarity, dignity and safety.

That means having the right to single-sex spaces enshrined and protected in law.

“Plaid needs to explain why they are siding against womenonly spaces. These are not legal technicalities. They are refuges for domestic abuse survivors, hospital wards and changing rooms. Real spaces where real women have a right to privacy and safety.”

However, the motion signed by Plaid MPs does not itself remove any legal protection. It is an Early Day Motion calling for Parliament to reject the draft Code before it comes into force.

The Code remains subject to parliamentary scrutiny. If it is not disapproved within the required period, the UK Government will set a date for it to come into effect.

Is Restore the Best Hope of Stopping a Farage Premiership?

This week’s exposé in Nation that enough newly elected Reform Senedd Members are considering defecting to the far-right challenger party, Restore, less than a month after being elected to serve in our national parliament is a sign of the febrile political times in which we live.

Political defections have a proud history, sometimes motivated by ideological rifts, mostly by shallow opportunism. It takes some chutzpah for a group of individuals elected on a on a party vote list system to be already plotting forming a new Senedd Group with a different party.

Restore didn’t even contest the Senedd elections, it will therefore make a complete mockery of the election if they end up with a formal party Group a matter of days since votes were cast.

The revelations highlight a wider schism that has emerged in the political far right, that as things stand looks the most likely means of depriving Nigel Farage the UK Premiership. Reform have led the UK polls since May 2025, and the latest polls this month by You Gov and Opinium gives them a 5 & 9 point lead respectively. The polling for over a year have been remarkably consistent and even a £5m dodgy personal donation to Mr Farage has not moved the dial.

On the surface it looks like a thumping victory is within Reform’s hands. However, not all is well within the theatre of far-right politics in the UK as the extraordinary Senedd story highlights.

What started off as a personality bust up between Farage and Rupert Lowe looks like being hyper consequential to the politics of the remainder of this Westminster cycle.

To put matters into context, Restore was only registered as a political party in February 2026. In less than 5 months it has already expanded rapidly from its Greater Yarmouth bridgehead.

Its vote share in the Makerfield by-election is likely to determined whether Andy Burnham wins the seat for Labour and finds himself moving into 10 Downing St soon after.

Last week’s Survation poll of Makerfield suggests that Green and Liberal Democrat support has consolidated behind Mr Burnham, putting him on 49 points. The farright vote, however, is split between Reform on 39% and Restore on 8%.

Mr Lowe knows that simply standing in the election can harm his former comrade terminally.

Looking at the next General Election, Labour strategists can begin to see a roadmap that could

Jonathan Edwards

lead to victory. I would argue at this point that Labour in a UK wide election needs to think in the manner that it is leading a progressive bloc of parties and needs to consider ways of getting the Greens, Lib Dems, the SNP and Plaid on side.

Concessions to those parties on their core interests cemented by electoral reform would provide the basis for a radical programme of government.

This needs to be explored in another article, but success for Labour at UK level means being less tribal.

Returning to the matter at hand, and whilst I admit I am not an expert in the politics of the far right, if I was Mr Farage, I would be a very worried man. The Telegraph this week reports that 20% of Reform voters would now support Restore.

Momentum is also growing for Mr Lowe. Supported openly by Elon Musk, he has built over 2.6 million followers on social media channels driven largely by content on X. The party has already established branches in 550 parliamentary constituencies and is actively mobilising, including here in Carmarthenshire.

Some commentators argue that Mr Lowe supported by Mr Musk are trying to influence Reform and Mr Farage in terms of the platform they will fight going into the General Election before reuniting. Farage is no fool, he knows that to cement his lead he can’t just energise his base, he needs to detoxify Reform also.

The existence of Restore makes that more difficult, pushing Mr Farage into more extreme positions as shown by his response to the tragic death of Henry Nowak.

I might be wrong, but I don’t think Rupert Lowe is interested in building bridges. In an interview with Politico this week he is quoted, “I don’t work with people who try and send me to prison for nothing. Would you?”

With an estimated fortune of £30m and with the support of the world’s richest person who controls one of the most powerful social media platforms on the planet, Mr Lowe is in the political headspace to throw the dice.

The irony of Mr Farage being faraged from the right will be a matter of glee for his political opponents. Being open to attack from all fronts is never a good place to be politically. The Makerfield byelection next week therefore may not only determine whether Mr Burnham becomes the next Prime Minister but also break the spokes of the Reform cartwheel.

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Notices

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Learning Schools form to find out more about the NSPCC Schools Service and how we can work together to help keep children safe.

Rhian Jones NSPCC Cymru Schools Service

LETTERS & NOTICES

send your letters to: The editor, 11 hamilton terrace, milford haven, Pembrokeshire, sa73 3al email us at: editor@herald.email

The importance of play DEAR SIR,

Picture of the week!

RAF Airbus A400 (DRD41) flying over The Epynt ranges, Wales by Malcolm Porter

Our Speak out Stay Safe DEAR SIR,

The NSPCC School Service works with schools to help children and young people learn about their rights and understand what to do if they feel worried or scared.

Our Speak out Stay safe safeguarding programme, available in Welsh, English and British Sign Language, aims to equip children with the knowledge they need to stay safe from abuse and neglect, supported by our ageappropriate mascot, Buddy.

The programme provides resources for primary schools, home educators and practitioners in alternative provisions, helping children aged five to 11 to understand abuse in all its forms, including bullying and neglect, and how to recognise it.

It also teaches children that abuse is never their fault, that they have the right to be safe, and where they can get help, including through Childline.

Since 2013, Pantosaurus has also helped more than six million parents to Talk PANTS and support children in staying safe from sexual abuse. Using child-friendly language and a familiar character, the Talk PANTS initiative helps children aged five to 11 understand

what abuse is, reassures them that it is never their fault, and shows them where to seek help.

Our goal is to reach every primary-aged child in the UK, ensuring children feel confident speaking to safe adults and accessing support such as Childline.

We are currently inviting primary schools across Wales to get in touch via the NSPCC Learning Schools form to learn more about the NSPCC Schools Service and how we can work together to help keep children safe.

Rhian Jones NSPCC Cymru Schools Service

NSPCC Schools Service DEAR SIR, The NSPCC Schools Service works with schools across Wales to help children and young people understand their rights, recognise when something is wrong, and know where to turn if they ever feel worried or scared.

Our Speak out Stay safe safeguarding programme, available in Welsh, English and British Sign Language, gives primary-aged children the

knowledge they need to help keep themselves safe from abuse and neglect. With the support of our age-appropriate mascot Buddy, the programme helps children understand abuse in all its forms, including bullying and neglect, and reinforces the message that abuse is never a child’s fault.

The programme provides resources for primary schools, home educators and practitioners in alternative provision, supporting children aged five to eleven to recognise unsafe situations and know how to seek help, including through Childline.

Since 2013, our Pantosaurus campaign has also helped more than six million parents Talk PANTS with their children. Using child-friendly language and a familiar character, the initiative helps children understand that their body belongs to them, that they have the right to say no, and that they can speak to a trusted adult if something makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Our aim is to reach every primary-aged child in the UK, so that children feel confident speaking out and accessing support when they need it.

We are currently inviting primary schools across Wales to get in touch through the NSPCC

Play is disappearing from children’s lives at an alarming rate.

In the UK, research shows that children are experiencing less free play than previous generations, with time spent playing outdoors having halved in a generation.

For many children around the world, the opportunities to play are even more limited. Almost one in five children globally live in areas affected by conflict, around 273 million are out of school, and nearly 138 million are engaged in child labour.

This squeeze on childhood will have damaging long-term consequences.

That is why, on International Day of Play on Wednesday (June 11), Right To Play is calling for international action to protect children’s right to play and ensure that no childhood is cut short.

The benefits of play are clear.

It is critical to children’s learning, development and wellbeing.

More than anything, play brings joy to childhood.

Through our global programmes, the power of play is transforming the lives of more than 4.7 million children every year, helping them to stay in school, recover from trauma and develop the life skills they need to thrive.

To find out more about the importance of play, and how to help champion this basic right for every child, visit righttoplay.org. uk.

Gillian McMahon Executive Director, Right To Play UK

We must take AI seriously before it is too late DEAR SIR, Much has been written in recent years about artificial intelligence, often split

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between two extremes: wild optimism or outright fear.

On one side, we are told AI will cure diseases, revolutionise medicine, solve climate problems and remove tedious work from our lives. On the other, we hear warnings of robots taking over, mass unemployment, or even humanity losing control of its own creations.

The truth, I suspect, lies somewhere in the middle.

It would be foolish to dismiss concerns about AI as science fiction.

History teaches us that powerful technologies often arrive faster than society is prepared to manage them.

Social media, for example, promised greater connection but has also brought division, misinformation and serious mental health concerns, particularly among young people. Technology rarely develops without unintended consequences.

Artificial intelligence is different because, for the first time, humanity is creating systems capable of learning, adapting and making decisions at speed and scale far beyond human capability. While today’s AI may be limited, progress is accelerating rapidly.

My concern is not that machines will suddenly declare war on humanity in some Hollywood-style apocalypse.

Rather, it is the quieter, more realistic dangers that worry me: decisions being made by algorithms nobody truly understands, jobs disappearing faster than new ones emerge, manipulation

through highly convincing fake content, and governments or corporations becoming dangerously reliant on systems beyond meaningful human oversight.

There is also an uncomfortable question we must ask ourselves: what happens if we build intelligence more capable than our own without fully understanding how to control it?

Some of the world’s leading scientists, engineers and technology pioneers — including people who helped create modern AI — have publicly called for caution and regulation. That alone should give us pause.

None of this means we should fear progress or reject innovation. Artificial intelligence has enormous potential for good, and it would be wrong to ignore the benefits. But equally, blind faith in technology is not wisdom.

The sensible approach is neither panic nor complacency. We need public debate, ethical safeguards, international regulation, and transparency from the companies building these systems.

Most importantly, we must ensure that human judgment remains at the centre of decisions affecting people’s lives.

Human beings created AI. We should not sleepwalk into a future where we are no longer fully in control of it.

Simon James Pembroke

NOTICES

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Death Notices

Directors, 51 Bush Street, Pembroke interment at Mathry Cemetery.

Family flowers only.

Dock) Donations in lieu, if desired, made marjorie-grace-jenkins. muchloved.com payable to ‘Paul Sartori Foundation’ www.jrsfunerals.com c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB.

Marjorie ‘‘Marje’’ Grace Jenkins Passed away peacefully at Hollyland Lodge Residential Home, Pembroke on Thursday, 21st May 2026, aged 86.

She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A celebration of Marje’s life will be held at Westgate Evangelical Chapel, Pembroke on Friday, 12th June at 11.30am, followed by a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1pm.

If desired, donations will be gratefully received in lieu of flowers in memory of Marje for ‘Westgate Evangelical Chapel’ via the link below.

(Cheques payable to ‘Westgate Evangelical Chapel’ can be sent to John Roberts & Son Funeral

Kenneth David Marpol On Monday 1st June, at his home in Mathry, Ken passed away peacefully, with his beloved wife Mair, and his devoted daughter Sandra by his side.

He was a dear father-in-law to Mike, loving Grandfather to Kaylie and Samantha and an incredibly proud Great-Grandfather to Penny, Poppy, Georgie and Lotti.

He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral service on Wednesday 17th June at The Chapel of Rest, Feidr Castell, Fishguard at 1pm followed by

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The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 16th June, 1:00pm at Nolton Haven United Reformed Church followed by interment at Nolton Cemetery.

Family flowers only.

Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to the Wales Air Ambulance may be sent c/o Mr R. Owen, Old Brian Patrick Lavin Manor Farm, Nolton, Haverfordwest, Died suddenly at his home in SA62 3NW. Further enquiries to F. G. Rees Haverfordwest. & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 Beloved husband of the late Pat. 764418.

Dearly loved brother of Peter, Terence and Andrew.

A much- loved uncle, relative and Gareth John Morgan friend.

Funeral service 1.00pm It is with great sadness that the Wednesday 17th June at St.David’s family announce the passing of Church, Prendergast to be followed Gareth Morgan at his home on 25th by burial in Prendergast Cemetery.

May 2026 aged 86 Years.

Enquires to W.G. Mathias Beloved husband of Heather, and Daughter, Funeral Directors, loving Father to Joanne and treasured St.Davids 01437 720537 grandfather to Callum and Kacey he will be greatly missed by all family and many friends.

Joyce Roberts His funeral service will take place on Wednesday 17th June, 10:45am at Parc Peacefully at Withybush Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Hospital on Monday 25th May 2026 Family flowers only.

Joyce Roberts of Nolton aged 81 Donations in memory of Gareth for years.

Beloved wife of John, much loved Ronald McDonald House Bristol can be mother and mother in law of Jackie sent c/o Mr. Dylan Phillpot, 2 Fair Oaks, and John, Jane and Ian, Jill and Mark, Haverfordwest, SA61 1EE or via garethgrandmother of Jamie, Ricky, Alex, morgan-1940-2026.muchloved.com.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Amie, Zoe, Ella, Isabelle and Hannah, Funeral Directors (01437) 763821. great grandmother of Olivia, Jaxon and Jessica, sister of Gill and Janet.

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Pembrokeshire comes together for charity football night at Bridge Meadow

SPORT

A CHARITY football match at the Ogi Bridge Meadow brought together players, businesses, volunteers and supporters from across Pembrokeshire on Friday night, raising more than £600 for a local charity supporting young people and families.

The match saw a Pembrokeshire Select XI take on a Valero Pembroke Refinery XI under the lights at Haverfordwest County AFC’s home ground, with the Select side comfortably winning on the pitch — but organisers said the real victory was the community effort behind the event.

By the end of the evening, an impressive £605.28 had been raised for Megan’s Starr Foundation, a Pembrokeshire charity which supports young people and families facing difficult circumstances.

For Nicola Harteveld and the Megan’s Starr team, the evening was about far more than football.

“Last night was about community, kindness, generosity and what can happen when people come together to support local young people and families.”

She added: “Last night showed the very best of our county. We are incredibly grateful, incredibly proud and above all proud to be Pembrokeshire.”

The charity thanked

Valero Pembroke Refinery for nominating Megan’s Starr as the supported cause and fielding a team led by Steve Parks, while also recognising the refinery’s volunteers who helped behind the scenes.

Credit was also paid to Chris “Sully” O’Sullivan and

everyone involved with the Pembrokeshire Select XI for organising the county side, along with players from clubs across Pembrokeshire who gave up their time during the close season to take part.

Haverfordwest County AFC opened the Ogi Bridge Meadow

for the match, while Pure West Radio helped create the atmosphere and promote the event across the county.

Darth Marty Media captured the evening’s action, while officials from the Pembrokeshire Referees Association volunteered their time to ensure the match was played in the right spirit.

On the field, spectators were treated to an entertaining encounter featuring quality football from both sides despite the summer break.

Jimmy Wilkes proved the star of the show, scoring a hattrick to earn Man of the Match honours for the Pembrokeshire Select XI. However, organisers stressed that the event highlighted something far bigger than football — the willingness of Pembrokeshire people to rally together when it matters.

Megan’s Starr Foundation said it receives no core funding and relies heavily on the generosity of local people, businesses and volunteers to continue its work.

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Runners tackle new route in Ras Y Castell 10k

MORE than 90 runners took to the streets and paths around Cardigan on Friday evening (June 5) for the annual Ras Y Castell 10k.

The race, organised by Cardigan Running Club, followed a brand new 10-kilometre course starting in the grounds of Cardigan Castle.

The route took runners past Castle Green House before heading through the town, across the old bridge over the River Teifi, and along the Teifi Marshes footpath towards the Welsh Wildlife Centre.

Competitors then continued to Cilgerran, completing a loop through the village and passing its 12th-century castle before retracing their steps back to Cardigan.

A final climb up Grosvenor Hill brought runners back into the castle grounds and

over the finish line.

The event came in a special year for Cardigan Castle, which later this month celebrates the 850th anniversary of the birthplace of the first Eisteddfod.

The supplied results named Riche Norris as first finisher, with Llion Williams and Owain Rowlands also among the leading men.

The first female finisher was Bethan Williams of Emlyn Runners in 43 minutes 56 seconds. Cardigan Running Club’s Leanne Roberts was second in 44 minutes 34 seconds, with Delyth Griffiths third in 47 minutes 25 seconds.

Winners received their awards in the castle grounds, where runners also enjoyed a free barbecue after the race.

Cardigan Running Club’s next events will be the Summer Poppit Sands races, with the first of three taking place on

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Cricket weekend round-up: Week 7 shakes up promotion races wickets, and Herbrandston shocked Neyland by 60 runs.

Division Two: Pembroke lead tight race Pembroke remain top after an eight-wicket win over Llechryd, but the chasing pack is close behind.

Cresselly II edged Johnston by just two runs, while Haverfordwest, Hook and Llanrhian also picked up wins.

Division Three: Laugharne go top

A WEEKEND of big wins, shock defeats and abandoned fixtures tightened several promotion races across the Pembroke County Cricket League.

Saundersfoot strengthened their grip on Division One, Pembroke stayed top in Division Two, Laugharne moved ahead in Division Three, while Cresselly III and Haverfordwest IV remain the sides to catch lower down the pyramid.

Division One: Saundersfoot send title warning Saundersfoot produced the statement performance of the weekend, crushing Carew by 125 runs after posting 208-4. Simon Stanford hit 98, while Nick Cope added an unbeaten 60 before taking 4-7.

Cresselly beat Narberth by 51 runs, Burton defeated Lawrenny by four

Laugharne moved to the summit after beating Burton II, while Kilgetty slipped up against Lamphey, who bowled them out for just 58.

David Blackwell starred for Lamphey with superb figures of 5-5, while Pembroke II thrashed Stackpole by nine wickets.

Division Four: Leaders under pressure Rain disrupted the division, but St

Ishmaels II and Neyland II both made ground with victories.

St Ishmaels II beat Lawrenny II by seven wickets, while Neyland II defeated Herbrandston II by eight wickets.

Division Five: Llangwm II keep pressure on

Only one game was completed, with Llangwm II beating Whitland II by nine wickets.

John Palmer made 36 and David Lewis 29 as Llangwm II chased 72 with ease.

Division Six: Scourfield century leads Haverfordwest IV Gareth Scourfield produced one of the performances of the weekend, hitting an unbeaten 124 as Haverfordwest IV chased 212 to beat Haverfordwest/Cresselly by three wickets.

Ollie Toy had earlier made 95 for Haverfordwest/Cresselly.

Community spirit shines at charity night

A COMMUNITY football club in Pembrokeshire is being praised after raising money for two important causes through another packed charity evening in Saundersfoot.

New Hedges/Saundersfoot United (NHSU) hosted a sell-out event at Regency Hall on Saturday night, bringing together local residents, supporters and well-known faces for an evening of entertainment and fundraising.

The event featured an appearance

by Welsh rugby legend Shane Williams, comedian Lenny Dee, a silent auction and fundraising activities in support of the Maxwell Family Genomics Fund and Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity.

Organisers said the evening highlighted the power of community spirit in Pembrokeshire and the difference local support can make to charities which rely heavily on fundraising to continue their work.

Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity supports children and young

people coping with bereavement across west Wales, offering specialist help to families facing difficult circumstances.

The Maxwell Family Genomics Fund also benefited from the evening, with money raised helping efforts linked to medical research and support for affected families.

The event was organised by New Hedges/Saundersfoot United, a club increasingly earning a reputation for successful charity fundraising alongside its sporting activities.

Saturday’s fundraiser marked the third consecutive sell-out charity event hosted by the club, following previous popular evenings featuring former Wales striker John Hartson and former Liverpool goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar.

Local supporters have praised NHSU for creating events that not only entertain but also raise substantial sums for good causes at a time when many charities face growing financial pressures.

One organiser said community fundraising remained vital, particularly for smaller charities that often struggle to secure long-term funding.

Without local backing, many organisations helping vulnerable families would simply be unable to continue their work.

The evening at Regency Hall was widely described by attendees as another major success for the club and a reflection of the strong community spirit in Saundersfoot and New Hedges.

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Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League Table Fixtures 13th June

DIVISION 1

Divison 1 Burton Herbrandston Lawrenny Neyland St Ishmaels

v v v v v

Narberth Whitland Saundersfoot Carew Cresselly

Divison 2 Cresselly II v Fishguard v Haverfordwest v Johnston v Pembroke v

Hook Llechryd Pembroke Dock Llanrhian Llangwm

DIVISION 2

Divison 3 Carew II v Kilgetty v Lamphey v Laugharne v Saundersfoot II v

Haverfordwest II Pembroke II Hundleton Stackpole Burton II

Divison 4 Carew III Crymych Hook II Llechryd II Narberth II

v v v v v

Herbrandston II Neyland II Haverfordwest III St Ishmaels II Lawrenny II

v v v v

Pembroke III Cresselly III Llechryd III Hundleton II

DIVISION 3

Divison 5 Llangwm II Llanrhian II P Dock II Whitland II

DIVISION 5

Divison 6 Haverfordwest IV Neyland III v Whitland III v

v Laugharne II Lamphey II Kilgetty II

DIVISION 4

DIVISION 6

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SPORT

Runners tackle new route in Ras Y Castell 10k • P83