The Pembrokeshire Herald 12/09/2025

horseback TribUTe To remember

LocaL Senedd member joinS UK figUreS in denoUncing attacK on US conServative activiSt charLie KirK • P8

ambiTioUs oakwood revival bid rejected by ownerS • P18

samuel Kurtz ms

Horseback tribute to remember Sally Allen this weekend

RIDERS from across Pembrokeshire will saddle up on Sunday (Sept 14) for a memorial ride in honour of Sally Allen, the much-loved 18-year-old from Cresswell Quay who tragically died in a collision on the A40 in July.

Friends from the equestrian and Young Farmers’ communities will lead the tribute, with the first group setting off from Cresselly House (SA68 0SP) at 10:00am. Pre-booked riders will be treated to a bacon roll provided by Hugh HarrisonAllen before departure.

The Herald understands the ride will conclude at Cresswell Quay, where there will be live music, refreshments and burgers on sale. Participants and supporters are encouraged to wear yellow and sunflowers in Sally’s memory.

Donations made on the day will go to Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity—one of the causes supported at Sally’s celebration of life.

Organisers have asked that children are accompanied by a responsible adult. Extra parking has been arranged; people are politely requested not to park at Cresswell Quay itself.

To book or for more information, call or WhatsApp Ali Perry on 07796 648252.

Princess Royal visits Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre

HRH The Princess Royal visited the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre on Thursday (September 11) to mark the return of the historic RAF Pembroke Dock Memorial Window.

The window, which was first dedicated in October 1945 at the RAF Station Church in Pembroke Dock, commemorates those who served and lost their lives during the Second World War. Following the station’s closure in the late 1950s, the window was moved to Plymouth and, for the past three decades, has been on display at the RAF Museum in London.

Its return has been described as a significant moment for the town, which was the first RAF Station in the country to honour its wartime casualties in this way.

The Princess Royal was welcomed by members of the Pembroke Dock Heritage Trust and community representatives before viewing the restored window and meeting volunteers who have worked to preserve the town’s aviation and maritime history.

The ceremony marked not only the window’s homecoming but also Pembroke Dock’s enduring connection with the RAF and the sacrifices made during the conflict.

Photographs of the Royal visit have been made available by Martin Cavaney Photography.

Historic return: HRH The Princess Royal at the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre on Thursday .

Sally Allen was a keen horse-rider whose friends are organising a memorial ride in her honour. (Pic: Family)

‘We’re treated like schoolkids’: Bin workers lift lid on chaos at Pembrokeshire Council

Staff shortages, overloaded routes and low morale blamed for recycling crisis

A PEMBROKESHIRE bin worker has spoken exclusively to The Herald, describing “a shambles” inside the county’s waste service as missed recycling collections mount across Milford Haven, Hakin and beyond. His account has since been independently verified by another member of staff who contacted us by phone, confirming the same issues across the service.

The revelations come after widespread disruption at the end of last month (Aug 29) left streets across Milford without collections for the second or third week running. Pembrokeshire County Council has cited “operational issues” including vehicle breakdowns and staff shortages,

and urged households to keep recycling bags out until Monday (Sept 1) when crews “aim to recollect.”

Frontline staff told The Herald that crews are being forced to take on far more properties each day than intended.

One worker said: “Routes were designed for 750 to 800 houses. Some of us are now covering 1,200 plus, then being told to help mop up other routes on top. We’ve been told since Christmas 2023 that routes would be restructured, but nothing has changed — and more new estates have been built in that

time.”

They described the physical toll of filling lorries to capacity and the demoralisation of being pushed to do more: “It’s head down all day, necks and shoulders taking a hammering. When we finish our route we’re told to go back out and do more. Holidays are refused, and lads need long weekends just to recover. Morale is on the floor.”

MAnAgEMEnT CRITICISED

Workers were scathing about the current leadership of the service.

One said: “During the pandemic we worked through with a different management team and there were no major issues. Now it’s army-style management. There’s no interaction. Our head of service, Craig Meachem, we’ve barely seen him in two years. We raised grievances, he came to one meeting out of six. It’s do as I say and that’s it.”

The same worker claimed: “He said at a scrutiny meeting he rolled his sleeves up and helped. That happened once, for two hours. Our old manager would be in at 6:00am with us, driving routes and loading when needed. Nothing like that now.”

VEHICLES AnD WELFARE

While council leaders blame vehicle breakdowns, staff said that was only part of the story.

“There are days we’ve had five lorries ready but no crews to man them. They’ve even tried to send out a truck with just a driver. We refused — they

Uncollected waste: Bags and boxes have been left on the roadside as crews struggle to keep up (Image: PCC)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

promise help but it never turns up.”

Working conditions were also described as inadequate.

“In hot weather there’s no water supplied — we rely on residents giving us a drink. In wet weather we sweat inside our gear, then there’s one small drying cabin for 20 people, one shower for 100 staff. Most of us sit in the lorries with heaters on. Other councils let supervisors make welfare decisions. Here they’re reprimanded. We’re even locked in the compound until a supervisor lets us out, like schoolkids.”

MEnTAL HEALTH STRAIn

Staff say morale is collapsing under the strain, with sickness becoming a vicious circle.

“We are being totally demoralised.

The only option for many is to go sick, which just makes things worse for those left. We tried to communicate, but management stopped listening.”

They also highlighted abuse from the public: “We’ve been assaulted, sworn at, had things thrown at us. Management wonders why there’s a mental health problem.”

RECRUITMEnT AnD TURnOVER

According to workers, staff churn is worsening the crisis.

“They’ve taken on about 50 people in the last year, most lasting two days. One lasted one day and couldn’t even tie their bootlaces. It just puts more pressure on the rest of the crew.”

STREETS MISSED

Over the last ten days, locals responding to The Herald’s call for information listed more than 30 streets where collections were missed, including Coombs Drive, Picton Road, Pill Road, Vicary Crescent, Dairy Park Grove, St David’s Close, Observatory Avenue, Silverstream Drive, Murray Road, Yorke Street, Hubberston Court, Wentworth Close, Hilton Avenue, Waterloo Road, Court Rise, Nubian Crescent and Mills Drive in Neyland.

Council response

Pembrokeshire County Council issued a statement to The Herald in response to the allegations. A spokesperson said:

“With the assistance of the public,

Pembrokeshire County Council has consistently been among the top recycling authorities in Wales over recent years and together we can continue to improve recycling rates. We recognise there have been instances of missed collections over recent weeks, and we wish to apologise to the public for the disruption and thank them for their patience and support.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our Waste and Recycling crews who are working extremely hard and doing their best every day to provide a safe and effective collection service while minimising disruption.”

THE COUnCIL ADDED THAT:

• Routes are “planned to consider vehicle size, crewing, population density and depot locations” and were designed with support from WRAP Cymru. It said it “does not consider routes to be overloaded” but confirmed that further reviews are planned.

• In the last 12 months, 15 staff have left and 15 have been recruited, with all vacancies currently filled.

• Staff welfare is supported through HR policies, engagement events, a dedicated HR officer for mental health, and new welfare facilities at the Eco Park depot.

• The council said it updates its dedicated webpage with information when collections are disrupted, and aims to return within 48 working hours.

• Disruptions, they added, represent “less than 1% of the five million collections” carried out each year.

The council also pointed to “financial challenges” facing the authority and said the summer tourist season had added to pressure on frontline services.

The statement concluded: “We would like to thank the communities of Pembrokeshire for their patience and continued support.”

Pembroke Dock man’s driving case reopened

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has had his conviction overturned after magistrates agreed to reopen his case.

James Williams, aged 37, of Lavinia Drive, was originally convicted on August 26 of driving without insurance and without a valid MOT certificate. His licence had been endorsed at the time.

Court Reporter

But at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Sep 10), the case was reopened under a little-used law that allows magistrates to correct mistakes if new information comes to light. Known as section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act, it lets the court cancel a conviction and start the case again if it is believed that justice was not properly done the first time.

As a result, Williams’s conviction was set aside and the licence endorsement was ordered to be removed.

The charges relate to June 7, when he is alleged to have driven a Volkswagen Sharan on the A40 at St Clears without insurance and without a valid test certificate.

The case has now been adjourned until October 8 at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court, at the request of the prosecution, who are awaiting confirmation from the insurance company.

Mounting pressure: Crews say they are at breaking point (Pic: PCC)

Teenager struck by van in Pembroke hit and run

A SIXTEEn-year-old moped rider was struck by a van in Pembroke on Sunday (Sept 7) in what his family has described as “disgusting behaviour.”

The incident happened at around 12:00pm outside the Jabberwocky café, at the junction at the top of the hill heading into town. Dylan, who had been stationary at the junction giving way,

was rear-ended by a black Vauxhall Vivaro van with the registration LP11 YLC.

Footage shared by the family appears to show the van hitting the

teenager with force before driving away.

According to Dylan’s mother, Amy Hughes, the driver failed to provide proper details at the scene. Instead, he took Dylan’s bank details and claimed he would send money to cover the damage.

Ms Hughes said: “This was Dylan’s first bump and, being only 16, he didn’t get any details. The man has taken his bank details and said he’ll send money… we shall see. Absolutely disgusting behaviour.”

The family is now appealing for anyone who recognises the driver or has information about the incident to come forward.

Friends and neighbours have expressed shock at the incident. One local resident, Gayle Bosier, commented: “He didn’t even slow down.”

The Herald understands the matter has been reported and efforts are being made to trace the driver of the van.

Person airlifted to hospital after serious A40 crash

Traffic disruption as emergency services close road for over two hours in Carmarthen OnE person was airlifted to hospital after a two-vehicle crash on the A40 at Carmarthen on Sunday (September 7).

The collision happened on the eastbound carriageway between the B&Q roundabout and Carmarthen Showground shortly after 12:25pm.

Emergency services, including Dyfed-Powys Police and Wales Air Ambulance, attended the scene. The

air ambulance’s Dafen-based crew arrived by rapid response vehicle at 12:57pm, with their involvement concluding just after 1:30pm.

The road was closed for around two and a half hours, with one lane reopening at 1:50pm and the carriageway fully open again by 3:00pm.

Police confirmed that one person was taken to hospital for treatment. No further details about their condition have yet been released.

Witness bid to give evidence by video link rejected

An ATTEMPT by a prosecution witness to give evidence via video link on the grounds that she was fearful of being in the same room as the defendant has been rejected by Haverfordwest magistrates.

The Crown argued that the witness “doesn’t want to be in the same room as the defendant,” but magistrates this week dismissed the application as

unsubstantiated.

“This request is because the witness doesn’t want to inconvenience herself by coming to court,” said defence solicitor Tom Lloyd, who represents Harry Nicholas. “Special measures shouldn’t be used as a convenient way of giving evidence. We all have to make sacrifices in court, and not even the complainant has requested special measures. These

should only be granted if someone is terrified of giving evidence, and that is simply not the case here.”

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told the court the witness wanted the minimum level of contact with the defendant when giving her evidence.

“She doesn’t want the defendant to know where she lives,” she said. “She doesn’t even want to be in the same

room as him, and for that reason she requests to give evidence via video link.”

After a short adjournment, magistrates refused the application. Harry Nicholas, 24, of Great North Road, Milford Haven, has pleaded not guilty to stalking a female in Milford Haven between July and October 2024.

Milford mother caught drink-driving after neighbour row

A MILFORD HAVEn mother of two has admitted driving to a petrol station for cigarettes while more than three times over the drink-drive limit. Haverfordwest magistrates heard that Ramona Bucur, 38, of Meyler Crescent, was stopped on July 25 after police noticed her Volkswagen Passat being driven “very, very slowly” and hesitantly along Steynton Road, Johnston.

A roadside breath test revealed she had 128 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – the legal limit is 35.

Crown prosecutor Chris Evans said officers were concerned by her driving and intervened.

Defence solicitor Mike Kelleher explained that the incident followed a dispute with a neighbour.

“There had been difficulties with this

neighbour in the past,” he told the court.

“On this occasion, after an argument in which the neighbour told her to go back to Romania, she was very upset. Foolishly, she decided to drive to get cigarettes to calm herself down.”

Probation officer Julie Norman said Bucur and her family had held a barbecue earlier that evening, before being disturbed by noise from next door.

“The defendant drank vodka and then made the decision to drive to Johnston petrol station to purchase cigarettes,” she said.

Magistrates imposed a 29-month driving ban and a 12-month community order, requiring Bucur to complete ten rehabilitation activity days. She was also fined £320 and ordered to pay a £114 surcharge and £85 in costs.

Kurtz condemns Charlie Kirk killing as UK politicians react

Senedd member joins UK figures in denouncing attack

A PEMBROKESHIRE politician has spoken out following the murder of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah, as figures across the UK and America condemned the killing as an attack on free speech and democracy.

Samuel Kurtz MS, who represents Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire in the Senedd, described the shooting as “a horrendous act of violence against free speech, critical thinking and debate.”

Mr Kurtz added: “My deepest condolences are to his wife and family.”

SHOOTIng In UTAH

Kirk, aged 31, was shot dead on Wednesday (September 10) while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Witnesses reported

the neck and collapsed as the crowd fled in panic.

Police said the shot was believed to have been fired from a nearby building around 200 yards away. Kirk was rushed to hospital but later died of his injuries.

Utah Valley University was immediately placed on lockdown and classes were cancelled while armed officers carried out buildingby-building evacuations. The FBI and ATF are assisting local police. As of Wednesday evening, the suspect had not been caught.

UK POLITICAL REACTIOn

UK politicians joined their American counterparts in condemning the killing.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “My thoughts this evening are with the loved ones

political violence.”

Kim Leadbeater MP, the sister of murdered Labour MP Jo Cox, said: “This is dreadful. Whatever our

Former prime ministers Boris Johnson and Liz Truss also paid tribute, while Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called it “a tragic loss for democracy

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, described the killing as a “dark day for American democracy” and expressed

President Donald Trump

confirmed Kirk’s death on social media and ordered flags across the United States to be flown at half-staff until Sunday. He called Kirk “a truly great American patriot.”

Leaders from across the US political spectrum condemned the killing, describing it as a direct attack on free speech and democracy.

Kirk, from Illinois, co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and became a close ally of Trump. He hosted a popular podcast and organised high-profile student events across the United States. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two young children.

COnCERn OVER InTOLERAnCE

The murder has reignited debate over political intolerance and the rise of violence against public figures.

For many in Wales and the wider UK, the killing recalls the deaths of Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021. Politicians across party lines have warned that polarisation, abuse and intimidation are creating a climate where disagreement is too often replaced by threats or violence.

Pembrokeshire MS Samuel Kurtz’s statement reflected that wider concern, placing the focus on the right to disagree without fear. His words highlight the impact of events thousands of miles away — and the need to safeguard democratic debate at home.

OPiniOn: The rising intolerance of opposing views is a concern for us all

THE shocking death of Charlie Kirk, the young American conservative activist gunned down while speaking at Utah Valley University, has once again laid bare the dangerous rise of political intolerance. Kirk was just 31, a husband and father of two, and a man whose work - whether people agreed with it or not - centred on free speech and debate.

This was not simply an attack on an individual. It was an attack on the principle that in a free society, people should be able to hold and express views without fearing violence. That principle is under threat not just in the United States, but across the democratic world, including here in Britain.

In recent years, we have seen polarisation deepen, both online and in public life. Politicians, campaigners and journalists are routinely subjected to threats. Too often, those with strong views seek to silence their opponents rather than argue with them. This is corrosive to democracy.

For Wales, where robust debate

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

has long been part of our tradition, this should set alarm bells ringing. We do not have to agree with Charlie Kirk’s politics - many in Pembrokeshire or across the Senedd would not. But the principle that someone can speak, organise, or campaign without intimidation is fundamental.

We cannot afford to dismiss these events as an “American problem.” Jo Cox’s murder in 2016 and the killing of Sir David Amess in 2021 showed that political violence is tragically real on our own shores. Online intimidation of councillors, Senedd Members and MPs is increasingly driving people away from public service.

There is a creeping culture where disagreement is treated not as part of healthy debate, but as justification for hatred. The left and the right both have their extremes; and both must recognise that once political argument is replaced by threats or violence, everyone loses.

What is needed now is leadership — in Westminster, in the Senedd, and in our own communities. Leaders must condemn political violence consistently, no matter the target, and set the tone for respectful disagreement. Social media platforms must do more to tackle threats and abuse without becoming censors of legitimate

views. And each of us, as citizens, must resist the temptation to dehumanise those we disagree with.

The death of Charlie Kirk is a stark reminder: when free societies allow intolerance to fester, it ends not in victory for one side, but in tragedy for all.

Calls for fairer council tax as scrutiny committee backs relief for holiday lets

COUnCILLORS in Pembrokeshire have backed a series of recommendations on Second Home Council Tax, including a proposal to give discretionary relief for holiday cottages. t the Policy Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday (Sept 9), Councillor Huw Murphy, who represents newport and Dinas, said the current premium of 150 per cent for second homes and 300 per cent for long-term empty properties should remain in place for the 2026/27 financial year.

However, he proposed that Cabinet apply 50 per cent relief for holiday cottages let out between 140 and 182 days a year. If accepted, this would mean those meeting the threshold would pay council tax at 100 per cent instead of 150 per cent, while second homes used solely for private purposes would continue to face the full rate.

The committee backed the recommendation with no votes against.

FInAnCIAL BACKDROP

The move comes as Cabinet reviewed first-quarter financial figures on Monday (Sept 8), showing a projected £2.2 million surplus for 2025/26. The Independent Group, the largest in the Chamber, welcomed the easing of pressure on social care budgets and argued that some of the surplus should be used to lessen the burden on council taxpayers.

Councillor Murphy also raised concerns over 1,800 properties in Pembrokeshire on the Non-Domestic Rate system, most of which pay nothing under small business rate relief. He said if they were taxed at an average Band E rate, the county could raise millions more.

“There has to be a fairer Council Tax system that raises revenue in a more cost-effective way,” he said. “The Welsh Government should have been bold and tackled this years ago.”

TOURISM AnD THE ECOnOMy

The committee also criticised the Welsh Government’s retention of the 182-day letting rule for holiday lets, branding it unrealistic for many rural operators. England’s threshold is 105 days.

Councillors said a 140-day target would be more practical and help support smaller tourism businesses, particularly in inland areas outside hotspots like Tenby, St Davids and Newport.

They warned that with around 20 per cent of Pembrokeshire’s workforce employed in tourism, leisure and hospitality, weakening the sector could be a disaster for the county. Declining car park revenue, linked to falling visitor numbers during the costof-living crisis, was cited as a sign of strain.

WIDER COnCERnS

Councillor Murphy also criticised Welsh Government proposals that self-catering owners should donate two weeks of free rental to charity. He argued that many lets are run by farming families encouraged to diversify in the past but are now penalised by the rules.

The Independent Group reaffirmed support for small business rate relief for pubs, restaurants and attractions, but called for new measures such as reduced vehicle tax in rural counties, noting that poor public transport makes car ownership a necessity.

They said such steps could help reduce rural poverty, protect the Welsh language in its heartlands, and tackle depopulation.

LOOKIng AHEAD

The Group also called for action to make Pembrokeshire more attractive to younger people to counterbalance the county’s ageing population. Without it, they warned, the future of local services and funding would come under increasing strain.

Cllr Huw Murphy

Order breached just two days after it was imposed

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has admitted breaching a non-molestation order only two days after it was imposed by magistrates.

Richard Atwell, 33, of The Ridgeway, St Florence, was banned from contacting his former partner on June 24. However, on June 26 he sent her a message via Instagram.

“He’s ruined my life,” the victim said in a statement read to Haverfordwest magistrates.

“I don’t feel safe in my own home and I’m constantly looking over my shoulder to make sure he isn’t there. I’m really struggling to have any quality of life and I’m on edge every single day, waiting for him to show up. The anxiety that’s going through my body is horrendous… I’ve gone through so much stress as a result of Richard’s behaviour.”

Defence solicitor Mike Kelleher told

the court the breach came about as Atwell tried to arrange the removal of his belongings from the former couple’s home.

“He had 24 hours to get out of the house and this caused him no end of difficulty,” he said. “He accepts that he contacted her, but this was because he was more concerned about vacating the property than anything else. The breach was simply sending messages. I do wonder whether the victim may be of a nervous disposition for her to be constantly looking over her shoulder.”

Magistrates imposed an 18-month community order requiring Atwell to complete 20 rehabilitation activity days, a 120-day alcohol abstinence monitoring programme and 75 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay £85 costs and a £114 surcharge. The non-molestation order remains in force.

landscaper banned for cannabis

A PEMBROKESHIRE landscape gardener has been banned from the road for 12 months after being caught driving with cannabis in his system.

Rory Parkinson, 34, was stopped by officers just before 11:30am on February 2 while driving along Thomas Parry Way in Haverfordwest.

“Police had received information that he was under the influence,” Crown Prosecutor Chris Evans told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

A roadside drug test proved positive and a subsequent blood analysis at the police station revealed 4.3 mcg of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system. The

legal limit is 2 mcg.

Parkinson, of Llys Glasfryn, St Davids, pleaded guilty to the offence and was represented in court by solicitor Alaw Harries.

“The defendant had smoked cannabis the previous evening to help him go to sleep,” Ms Harries said. She explained that Parkinson works as a self-employed landscaper and losing his licence would cause major difficulties with his business.

Magistrates disqualified Parkinson from driving for 12 months. He was also fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.

Police appeal after woman skips court over missing hire car

POLICE are appealing for information after a woman failed to appear in court over allegations of taking a vehicle without consent in Pembroke Dock.

The wanted woman is known as Ophelie Tonye, but has also used the names Ophelie Christelle Sandra Tonye and Lia Attias.

A warrant was issued for her arrest after she did not attend Manchester City Magistrates’ Court on February 23, 2024.

The case stems from September 11, 2023, when Silcox Rental Company in Pembroke Dock reported that a woman calling herself Lia Attias hired a Kia Sportage, worth around £13,000.

The car was due back the next day at 2:00pm, but was not returned. Attias initially answered calls to say she was running late, but the vehicle never came back and contact was lost.

Checks later revealed she had recently left her job at a nearby hotel, leaving no trace of her belongings. Staff at the hotel confirmed she had used a different identity, this time as Ophelie Christelle Sandra Tonye.

On October 5, 2023, the missing vehicle was recovered in North Yorkshire and Tonye was arrested. During a police interview, she admitted taking the car without consent.

She was released under investigation and sent a postal requisition for the offence on November 11, 2023, but has since failed to attend court.

Tonye is described as a slim black woman of Afro-Caribbean appearance, aged between 40 and 45, with wavy black hair. Her last known address is Claverton Street, London, SW1V 3AU.

Anyone who recognises Tonye or has information on her whereabouts is asked to contact police. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting case reference CS2509-20354.

Three rape cases sent to Swansea Crown Court

THREE separate rape cases listed before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday, Sep 9) have all been committed to the Crown Court.

The defendants, JORDAN HUGHES, aged 23, of Swansea; GARY LONGFIELD, aged 42, of Pembroke Dock; and JACK BRANSTON, aged 21, of Haverfordwest, each faced a single charge of rape.

Because rape is classed in law as an indictable-only offence, magistrates have no power to hear evidence or accept pleas.

All such cases must be sent to the Crown Court, where they are dealt with by a judge, and jury in the case of not guilty pleas.

No details of the alleged incidents were opened during the short hearings in Haverfordwest today.

Each defendant was ordered to appear at Swansea Crown Court on October 10.

The Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992 provides complainants in rape and other sexual offence cases with lifelong anonymity. This means no identifying details about the alleged victims can be published at any stage of proceedings.

The Herald understands that each case will be managed separately once before the Crown Court, and it will be for a judge to set out timetables for plea hearings and any future trial dates.

Man accused of nine years of controlling behaviour

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has been committed to Crown Court trial accused of subjecting a woman to nine years of controlling behaviour.

Wiliam Green, aged 31, is alleged to have repeatedly engaged in coercive and controlling conduct between January 1, 2016 and February 23, 2025. The charge claims his behaviour included violence, verbal abuse, accessing the complainant’s phone and threatening to harm her if she left him.

He is further accused of assault causing actual bodily harm on February

22, 2025.

Green, of Cardigan Road, Haverfordwest, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week where he denied both charges. Magistrates declined jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the allegations and sent the case to Swansea Crown Court. He was released on conditional bail, requiring him to live and sleep at his home address and not to contact the complainant directly or indirectly. Trial proceedings are scheduled to begin on October 10.

Fake police officer steals £16,000 from pensioner

POLICE have issued a warning after an elderly man was tricked into handing over £16,000 on his doorstep by a fraudster posing as an officer.

The victim, in his 80s, was targeted at his home in Riverside, Cardiff, on Wednesday (Sep 3). He had earlier received a phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer, instructing him to withdraw the cash.

Shortly afterwards, a man arrived at the address and snatched the

money from his hands.

The suspect has been described as black, with medium-length afro hair and a beard concealed by a medical mask. He was wearing a long-sleeved top and dark trousers.

OTHER ATTEMPTED SCAMS

South Wales Police confirmed they also received two other reports on Wednesday, in Fairwater and Canton, where fraudsters attempted similar

scams by pretending to be police officers.

A spokesperson said: “We urge people to remain vigilant and to check in on elderly or vulnerable relatives. Police officers will never ask for cash to be withdrawn or handed over in this way.”

ADVICE TO RESIDEnTS

The force has reminded the public to:

• Be suspicious of all “too good to be true” offers and deals

• Never hand over money or agree to deals without verifying credentials

• Avoid sending money to anyone they do not know or trust

• Use only secure and trusted payment methods

Anyone with information is urged to contact South Wales Police.

Broad Haven man denies assault and harassment charges

A BROAD HAVEn man has appeared in court accused of assault and breaching a restraining order.

Thomas Jones, 35, of Croft Road, Broad Haven, appeared before magistrates on Monday (September 8) facing three charges.

The court heard that on Saturday (September 6) he allegedly carried out an assault by beating, contrary to section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988. He is also accused of a second count of assault by beating on the same date.

In addition, Jones is charged with harassment by breaching a restraining order, contrary to section 5(5) of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

Jones entered not guilty pleas to both assault charges. No plea was recorded in relation to the harassment matter.

The alleged offences took place just days before his court appearance and all relate to incidents in Pembrokeshire.

Magistrates adjourned the case for further hearings. Jones was released on bail while the proceedings continue.

Ferry Lane roadworks confusion as signs promise four weeks, not six

RESIDEnTS in Pembroke Dock say they are confused and frustrated by the latest round of roadworks on the A477 at Ferry Lane.

Welsh Government told The Herald this week that the scheme — a gas main upgrade by Wales & West Utilities, with National Grid and Mainline Pipe Line also carrying

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

out maintenance — was originally expected to take twelve weeks, but had been cut to “four to six weeks” thanks to coordination between the companies.

However, one advance warning

signs on Ferry Lane state that the closure will last “approximately four weeks” from 14 July. To residents, it appears the works were only ever scheduled for a month, however another sign said 14 weeks.

One of the signs has already been defaced with graffiti scrawled “AGAIN FFS!!” — reflecting local anger at repeated disruption on this busy route between Pembroke Dock and Pembroke.

Welsh Government said letters were sent to residents in advance, with details published on the Traffic Wales website. The site is staffed twelve hours a day, traffic lights are controlled manually at peak times, and the South Wales Trunk Road Agent monitors traffic issues daily.

Despite these measures, many locals expect weeks of gridlock and want clearer communication over how long the disruption will really last.

Local people have been quick to vent their anger online:

• “No one working there at 5:30 tonight,” wrote Richard Barney Lewis. Others agreed, saying workers appeared to pack up early while traffic ground to a halt.

• “Imagine if they’d thought of

replacing the pipes when they redid the junction,” said Anne de Salis.

• “Should be teams working 24/7 to get it done,” added Kerry Colson, with others calling for three shifts of eight hours to cut the timescale.

• Jill Cooper said Essex Road was jammed with “coaches and cement mixers” trying to squeeze through side streets, while Louisa Calcutt described the scene at 11:15am as “a sh*t show.”

• Lynda Rixon warned that queues were blocking the ambulance station, while Jo Court worried whether she would make her hospital appointment on time.

One motorist told friends it had taken them 45 minutes just to get from the top bridge roundabout to Waterloo. Another said bluntly: “Absolute nightmare — 14 weeks.”

Welsh Government said the site is staffed twelve hours a day, traffic lights are manually controlled at peak times, and the South Wales Trunk Road Agent monitors traffic daily. But with residents already at boiling point, and uncertainty over whether the works will last four, six or fourteen weeks, frustration is set to continue.

Reform MS faces Senedd row over racist slur

OnLy Reform MS Laura Anne Jones has been found guilty of breaking Senedd rules after using a racist slur in a WhatsApp group – but she has been cleared of fiddling her expenses.

An unpublished report by standards commissioner Douglas Bain, leaked to BBC Wales, reveals that Ms Jones used the phrase “no chinky spies for me” in August 2023 when discussing Chineseowned social media app TikTok.

Mr Bain ruled the comment breached Senedd rules on discrimination, leadership, and bringing the Parliament into disrepute.

Jones, who defected from the Conservatives to Reform this summer, was also found to have failed to challenge offensive remarks made by a staffer. These included calling a former employee a “Grade A prick” and posting about “two tier policing” following comments by exHome Secretary Suella Braverman.

CLEARED On EXPEnSES

The commissioner did not, however, uphold allegations that Jones deliberately made false mileage claims. Instead, he accepted her evidence that mistakes were

made by a staffer who misunderstood her instructions. Jones has since repaid money for journeys she did not take.

Police had already investigated the matter last year and found no evidence of fraud.

Mr Bain’s report was scathing about the former employee who brought the complaint, accusing her of acting out of “revenge” after being sacked in February 2024. He described her as “not honest or trustworthy” and suggested she only went to the commissioner after attempts to secure re-employment or compensation failed.

The complainant has strongly rejected that characterisation, telling the standards committee she felt “mocked and humiliated” and that she raised concerns in good faith.

WHAT HAPPEnS nEXT?

The Senedd’s standards committee will now decide what sanction to recommend. Options range from a formal reprimand to suspension from the chamber, though the Parliament has no power to remove her from office.

In a statement, Jones said: “It’s disappointing that, following several other leaks over the past 18 months, the investigation process once again hasn’t been respected. This whole ordeal has taken a significant toll on my own health and my family. I cannot respond to leaked reports without being in breach of the rules. I look forward to making a full response once the report is published.”

The row ensures that the Reform MS – once seen as a rising star in the Conservatives before her defection –remains one of the most controversial figures in the Senedd.

Haverfordwest woman remanded over assaults appears on video link

A HAVERFORDWEST woman has been remanded in custody accused of assaulting a police officer and two others.

Sarah Moane, 35, of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, is charged with assaulting PC Lancey by beating during an alleged incident in the town on September 4. She is also accused of assaulting Zak Gibson by beating and of committing a common assault against Caitlin Walker

the previous day, September 3.

Moane appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week via a video link from hmp Eastwood park, where she is currently held on remand. She pleaded not guilty to all three charges.

Despite her application for bail, magistrates ordered that she remain in custody. Her trial has been listed for October 27.

Burglary accused remanded in custody

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has been remanded in custody after being charged with burglary in Milford Haven town centre.

Warren Harper, aged 33, is accused of entering a property on the Precelly Place estate on August 31 as a trespasser with intent to cause unlawful damage. He also faces charges of possessing 0.44 grams of cannabis resin and a

quantity of diazepam, a Class C controlled drug.

Harper, of Marble Hall Close, Milford Haven, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week via video link from Swansea Prison, where he is currently being held on remand.

After a short adjournment, magistrates further remanded him in custody pending his trial on October 27.

CCRC reconfirms John Cooper case still under review

THE CCRC (Criminal Cases Review Commission) has confirmed to The Pembrokeshire Herald that its investigation into the convictions of John William Cooper remains ongoing.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

amounts of evidence need to be analysed or new forensic testing is commissioned.

FROM WORLD WAR TWO TO THE DOCK

John William Cooper was born in Milford Haven on 3 September 1944, during the final year of the Second World War. Now aged 81, he is one of the oldest prisoners in the British system.

He was convicted at Swansea Crown Court in 2011 of four murders — Richard and Helen Thomas at Scoveston Manor near Milford Haven in 1985, and Peter and Gwenda Dixon, shot dead on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path in 1989.

The jury also convicted him of a string of violent burglaries and a sexual assault.

Cooper, once a farm labourer and later an unemployed drifter, was linked to the crimes years later through advances in forensic science and fibre evidence, as well as witness testimony.

At trial in 2011, prosecutors argued that Cooper had carried out the killings for financial gain. He was sentenced to life imprisonment with a whole-life tariff, meaning he is not eligible for release.

The case gained national attention in 2021 when it was dramatised in the ITV series The Pembrokeshire Murders, starring Keith Allen as Cooper and Luke Evans as DCI Steve Wilkins.

THE CURREnT REVIEW

In April 2023 the CCRC confirmed it had accepted Cooper’s application to review his convictions, with his legal team submitting an application that reportedly ran to more than 1,000 pages. In February 2024, the Commission confirmed the review had formally begun.

OPERATIOn AnD TRIAL

A spokesperson told The Herald: “I can confirm this case is still under review.”

The CCRC does not provide timescales for its work, but has said that complex reviews can take many months or even years, particularly when large

The Herald first contacted the CCRC in 2024, when it confirmed that the case was under review. A further update in March 2025 confirmed the case was still active, and this week (Sept 10) the Commission has again stated that the review is continuing.

Dyfed-Powys Police reopened the files in the early 2000s under “Operation Ottawa.” After a lengthy re-investigation, Cooper was arrested in 2009 and charged with the four murders, which had cast a shadow over Pembrokeshire for decades.

More than two years later, the case is still being considered. When a decision is finally reached, the CCRC will inform Cooper, his legal team and victims’ families first, before issuing a public statement.

Although it is not known on what grounds Cooper has applied, past CCRC referrals in murder cases have often turned on new forensic testing, new case law, or undisclosed evidence.

The CCRC has said it will issue a public statement once a decision is made.

Man admits knife threat and wounding

A TEnBy man has admitted wounding another man after a confrontation involving a knife.

Oliver Dowling, aged 21, of Newell Hill, faced charges of wounding with intent and the alternative offence of unlawful wounding following an incident in Tenby on July 14. He was also accused of threatening the victim with a knife and separately charged with possessing cannabis on July 17.

At a recent hearing, Dowling pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding, possession of cannabis, and to threatening a person with an offensive weapon in a private place. Prosecutor Emily Bennett confirmed that the Crown Prosecution Service accepted these pleas, meaning there will be no trial.

The court was told Dowling already

has two previous convictions. His barrister, Stuart John, requested that a pre-sentence report be prepared.

Judge Paul Thomas KC agreed to the request but warned Dowling that he is almost certain to be sent to prison. “The starting point is custody,” he said. “That’s overwhelmingly the likely outcome.”

The incident took place on the Hafalnod estate in Tenby. The victim, named in earlier hearings as Josh Allen, suffered stab wounds but his injuries were not life-threatening. Dowling was arrested soon after and remanded in custody when magistrates refused bail in July due to concerns over reoffending and interference with witnesses.

He is due to be sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on October 3.

West Wales paedophile cult leader could be moved to open prison

WEST WALES paedophile cult leader Colin Batley, who was jailed in 2011 for a catalogue of horrific child sex crimes, has been recommended for transfer to an open prison by the Parole Board.

Batley, now in his seventies, ran a cult from a quiet cul-de-sac in Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, where he and his followers brainwashed and abused children and young people using occult practices to justify their crimes.

During his trial at Swansea Crown Court, Batley was found guilty of 35 offences, including 11 rapes, indecent assaults, inciting children to have sex and forcing children into prostitution. He was given a sentence of imprisonment for public protection, with a minimum term of 11 years before he could be considered for release.

Alongside Batley, his wife Elaine, Jacqueline Marling and Shelley Millar were all jailed for their roles in the abuse. Victims described the group as manipulative and controlling, leaving lasting damage to their lives.

OPEn PRISOn MOVE

The Parole Board confirmed it had again rejected Batley’s bid for release, but said he had shown “improved insight” into his offending and had completed programmes to address his behaviour. It concluded that while it was not safe to free him, he could be transferred to an open prison where inmates live under minimal security and can spend time

“after reflecting on the gravity of the offences and the profound harm caused to victims.”

outside on licence for work, education or resettlement.

The final decision will rest with the Secretary of State for Justice, Shabana

In its decision, the panel stressed that Batley’s release would not be safe “for the protection of the public,” but said the move to an open prison was acceptable

The cult’s crimes remain one of the darkest chapters in recent Welsh criminal history, with survivors continuing to live with the consequences of Batley’s abuse.

Capel iwan man denies fraud charge in dog-selling case

A MAn from Capel Iwan has denied being involved in a fraudulent dog-selling business but admitted breeding dogs without a licence.

Meurig Thomas, aged 64, of Cruglwyd, Capel Iwan, Newcastle Emlyn, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Sept 4).

He faces a charge under the Fraud Act 2006, alleging that between January 2014 and June 2024 he knowingly participated in the unlawful sale and supply of dogs as part of a business, with intent to defraud creditors or for other fraudulent purposes. Thomas entered a not guilty plea to that charge.

He did, however, plead guilty to a separate count of breeding dogs without a licence, contrary to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The prosecution asked for time to take instructions on whether the fraud allegation should be committed to the Crown Court due to its seriousness and possible financial implications.

District Judge Mark Layton remanded Thomas on unconditional bail until October 2, when the matter will return to Llanelli Magistrates’ Court.

The case forms part of wider action by Carmarthenshire County Council

Mahmood.

PROFOUnD HARM

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Ambitious Oakwood revival bid rejected by owners

HOPES of bringing Oakwood Theme Park back to life have been dealt a major blow after its owners confirmed they would not sell the site.

The Spanish leisure company Aspro Parks, which closed Oakwood in March after 38 years, has told a Welsh consortium their £250m revival proposal will not be accepted.

Richens Leisure Projects (RLP), trading online as RL Parks, had approached the Welsh Government, Visit Wales and other stakeholders earlier this year with a plan to create a national leisure destination and 800 jobs.

But this week the group confirmed Aspro had rejected the bid. In a post on social media, RL Parks said: “We have stayed professional throughout the process of the proposal. Now we know the outcome, we have to announce this devastating outcome.”

The decision comes despite

future of the 90-acre site near Narberth remains uncertain, six months after its closure.

earlier optimism that Oakwood, once Wales’ premier theme park, could be reinvented. The RL Parks website revive.wales has since gone offline.

Oakwood Theme Park opened in 1987 and became famous for rides such as Nutty Jake’s Goldmine, Megafobia and the Pirate Ship. At its peak it attracted more than half a million visitors a year. Spanish leisure giant Aspro Parks acquired the attraction in 2008 and invested around £25m, but announced its sudden closure on March 4, 2025, blaming falling visitor numbers and rising costs.

Withybush hospital awarded £481,000 for major diagnostic upgrade

WITHyBUSH gEnERAL HOSPITAL in Haverfordwest is set to benefit from a £481,000 investment to upgrade its gamma camera system, strengthening vital diagnostic services for patients across Pembrokeshire and West Wales.

The funding, announced by the Welsh Government, will allow the hospital to replace and enhance ageing equipment used in nuclear medicine. Gamma cameras use small doses of radioactive material and gamma rays to produce detailed images of organs and tissues. These scans are crucial in identifying heart disease, cancers, bone disorders and other serious conditions at an early stage.

Health and social care secretary Jeremy Miles said the money would help ensure the NHS in Wales has access to modern diagnostic tools. He said: “We’re working to ensure that hospitals across the country are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to help medical teams deliver the best possible care. This £481,000 upgrade for an enhanced gamma camera will help to maintain essential diagnostic services in West Wales and help prevent treatment delays, ensuring people receive timely and effective care.”

The hospital’s radiology department currently provides nuclear medicine services not just for Pembrokeshire but also for parts of Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire, meaning the upgrade will have a wider regional impact.

Dr Liaquat Khan, clinical director of radiology at Hywel Dda University Health Board, welcomed the announcement. He said: “We are very pleased that this significant funding has been granted to Withybush to enhance our nuclear medicine facilities. It will allow us to

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

introduce new post-processing software that offers a more comprehensive and sophisticated analysis of the images we take. It will also help us to improve patients’ experience when they are in our care, creating a more comfortable and welcoming environment for

people undergoing specialist imaging procedures.”

The investment comes at a time of continueddebateaboutthelong-termfuture of hospital services in Pembrokeshire, with the health board pursuing plans for a new “super hospital” between Narberth and St Clears. Campaigners have long expressed concern about downgrades at Withybush, but the latest funding shows the site continues to play a central role in

delivering advanced diagnostic services. Gamma camera imaging has been a cornerstone of Withybush’s diagnostic capacity for decades, assisting in thousands of patient assessments each year. The replacement and enhancement of the equipment is expected to secure the service for the coming decade, reducing the risk of breakdowns and ensuring the hospital can keep pace with advances in medical imaging.

The

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Casualty rescued after dinghy accident in Fishguard Bay

A PERSOn was rescued after falling from their dinghy into the water at Fishguard Bay on Monday (Sept 8).

HM Coastguard Fishguard said their team was paged at 11:57am to provide visual support to RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat following reports of the incident.

The casualty was quickly located by the inshore lifeboat crew, brought safely ashore to the RNLI station, and given dry clothes and time to warm up. The

damaged dinghy was later recovered by the lifeboat team.

A Coastguard spokesperson said: “We are always proud to work alongside our colleagues at RNLI Fishguard. This was a swift and successful rescue.”

Members of the public are reminded to ensure vessels are seaworthy and to always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid when going afloat, regardless of how calm the conditions may appear.

Milford chef banned for drink-driving

A MILFORD HAVEn chef has been banned from the road after being caught drink-driving on his way home from work.

Kyran Salmon, 19, of Station Approach, Narberth, was stopped in the early hours of August 22 after police became concerned at his standard of driving.

Haverfordwest magistrates heard this week that Salmon had consumed two pints of lager following his shift at a Milford Haven restaurant before driving his Ford Fiesta towards Narberth.

“He drove through Milford Haven at excessive speeds and, as he entered Johnston, he was seen overtaking a vehicle in a 20mph zone,” said Crown Prosecutor Chris Evans.

“As the officers travelled behind him, the defendant was seen driving on the central white line and at one point his vehicle was almost on a right-hand kerb.”

Salmon was stopped and taken to custody, where a breath test returned a reading of 47 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Represented in court by Michael Kelleher, Salmon pleaded guilty to drink-driving. “This happened in the early hours of the morning when there was very little traffic around,” said Mr Kelleher. “He is extremely remorseful and has learnt his lesson.”

Magistrates disqualified Salmon from driving for 14 months and fined him £400. He was also ordered to pay a £160 surcharge and £85 costs.

Pembrokeshire motorist admits racing and competitive driving on main road

A PEMBROKESHIRE motorist has admitted a string of serious driving offences, including racing and competitive driving while over the drink-drive limit.

This week, 25-year-old Mathew Walters pleaded guilty at Haverfordwest magistrates to six offences committed on July 23 along the A478 at Glandy Cross.

Crown Prosecutor Chris Evans told the court: “This amounts to a plethora of aggravating features.”

Walters, of Neuadd y Cwm, Llanfyrnach, admitted driving his Audi

A6 with 56 mcg of alcohol in his system –the legal limit being 35. He also pleaded guilty to racing and competitive driving, fraudulently altering a registration mark or document, failing to stop when directed by police, driving without a licence, and driving without insurance. Given the seriousness of the charges, magistrates declined jurisdiction and sent the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on September 30. Walters was released on unconditional bail but was handed an interim driving ban until sentencing.

Drug dealer jailed after assault in St Davids uncovered cocaine stash

A MAn from St Davids has been jailed after an assault outside a shop led police to uncover thousands of pounds worth of drugs.

Swansea Crown Court heard that on July 28, staff at the CK store in St Davids called police after seeing Rhys Copley punch a man in the head without warning. The victim fell to the ground where he was then kicked.

When officers arrived they detained Copley in a nearby lane. He was found carrying £815 in cash and 10 grams of cannabis.

A search of his home followed, where officers were met with a strong smell of cannabis. Inside, they discovered 30 grams of high-purity cocaine with a street value of more than £5,000, along with 381 grams of cannabis worth around £4,700.

Copley, aged 31, of Noddfa Dewi, St Davids, admitted possession of cocaine with intent to supply, possession of cannabis with intent to supply, possession

of criminal property, and assault by beating.

The court was told he had five previous convictions for eight offences including robbery, drug possession and criminal damage.

Dan Griffiths, defending, said Copley had been using drugs himself and became involved in dealing to make what he saw as easy money. He described his client as “wholly realistic” about the position he was in.

Judge Geraint Walters said Copley came from a respectable family, with his father involved in running the lifeboat and his mother working in a GP surgery. He told the defendant that drug dealing was a “scourge” that brought misery to communities, including in St Davids.

Copley was jailed for three years. He will serve half in custody before being released on licence. The cash seized by police will be forfeited to Dyfed-Powys Police to support their work tackling drug crime.

Four shouts in one week for Angle RnLi’s volunteer crew

AngLE RnLI volunteers have responded to four separate callouts in the past week, including searches for missing persons and people cut off by the tide.

At 12:17am on Monday, September 1, the crew were paged to assist police with a search for a missing person in the Gelliswick Bay area. The lifeboat launched and began a search using FLIR, image intensifiers and searchlights. After covering the immediate area with nothing found, police confirmed that the casualty had been located safe and well nearby. With the situation resolved, the lifeboat was stood down and returned to station by 1:00am. Dale Coastguard Rescue Team also attended.

The second call came at 6:12pm on Saturday, September 6, when the crew were asked to support Tenby Inshore Lifeboat along with Tenby and St Govan’s Coastguard Rescue Teams following reports of five people potentially cut off by the tide at Lydstep Point. The Angle lifeboat launched but was stood down when Tenby ILB confirmed the group were fishermen who required no assistance. The crew were back on station by 6:45pm.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Just over two hours later, at 9:00pm, the lifeboat was launched again to the same location after the same group of five fishermen got into difficulty and called for help. Poor weather and darkness made it unsafe for Tenby ILB to launch, so Angle’s all-weather lifeboat was tasked to assess the situation. However, as the boat neared St Govan’s Head, word came that members of Tenby and St Govan’s Coastguard Rescue Teams had located the casualties and escorted them to safety. The lifeboat was back on station by 10:30pm.

The most recent call came at 4:21pm today (September 8), after a 999 call reported two people and a dog cut off by the tide on the west side of the Impala Jetty near Gelliswick. The lifeboat quickly located them and deployed its inflatable Y-boat. Both people and their dog were taken aboard and safely landed on Gelliswick Beach. With no further assistance required, the Y-boat was recovered and the lifeboat returned to station, ready for service again by 5:30pm.

Plans to redevelop Maes-ingli move forward

A LOng-AWAITED redevelopment of Maes-Ingli in newport (Trefdraeth) is a step closer after Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet discussed the scheme this week.

Council leader Jon Harvey confirmed that the project is expected to return to Cabinet for decision in November, with the possibility of going out to tender before the end of 2025.

The Maes-Ingli site, once used for sheltered housing, has been in need of major investment for many years. Campaigners have long argued that its current state demonstrates the urgency of turning promises into construction.

SECOnD HOME TAX FUnDIng

Henry Tufnell

PEMBROKESHIRE MP Henry Tufnell has praised the success of Velfrey Vineyard near narberth, describing it as a “local gem” and a “true Pembrokeshire transformation”.

Mr Tufnell visited the family-run vineyard on Friday (Sep 5), where he met the owners and heard how the business has developed from sheep pasture into an award-winning vineyard producing wines that are gaining recognition across Wales and beyond.

Founded in 2016, Velfrey Vineyard planted its first vines on land that had previously been used for grazing. The site now produces a range of sparkling and still wines, which have been recognised at the Welsh Vineyard Association awards and other UK competitions. The vineyard also runs tours, tastings and events, drawing visitors from across the county.

Mr Tufnell said: “It was brilliant to meet the team at Velfrey Vineyard and hear the story behind this local success. From a field of sheep to

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The Council is awaiting ministerial approval to allow second home tax receipts to be used for the redevelopment. If granted, it would mean that money raised from second homes in Newport could be reinvested directly into the community.

Councillor Huw Carnhuan Murphy, who has been pressing for action alongside Newport Town Council, said: “The current state of the MaesIngli building shows why this project is so urgently needed. We’ve pushed hard for some time, and it’s good to see movement at last. It’s only right

MP

that second home tax from Trefdraeth is invested locally, and that’s what we hope will now occur.”

nEW

SHELTERED HOUSIng

The plans for Maes-Ingli involve creating a modern sheltered housing scheme of around nineteen oneand two-bedroom apartments. The development would include communal facilities for residents, and potentially a multipurpose space for wider community use.

A “fabric first” design approach has been adopted, aiming to ensure energy efficiency, reduced running costs, and compliance with Welsh Development Quality Requirements and Lifetime

Homes standards. Landscaping is also expected to support biodiversity and sustainable drainage, while respecting Newport’s historic setting within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The Council has previously pledged to hold a public engagement event to give residents the chance to review designs, ask questions, and provide feedback before final plans are submitted.

In August last year, consultants Gleeds presented concept designs to the Council’s Housing Development Team, marking a significant step forward. A planning submission was originally targeted for spring 2024, with completion hoped for in winter 2025.

praises Pembrokeshire vineyard success

producing award-winning wines, it’s a true Pembrokeshire transformation. Their passion and dedication are clear to see, and I have no doubt there are more awards to come.”

gROWIng InDUSTRy In WALES

Wine production is a small but fastgrowing sector in Wales, with more than 30 vineyards now operating across the country. The industry contributes to rural diversification, supports tourism, and has gained increasing attention as climate conditions improve for grape growing in the UK.

The Welsh Government has highlighted vineyards as part of a wider push to showcase Welsh food and drink abroad. Exports of Welsh wine remain modest, but the industry has been recognised as one with strong potential, both for domestic sales and for raising the profile of Wales internationally.

Velfrey Vineyard is part of the Welsh Vineyards Association and plays a role in promoting Pembrokeshire as

a destination not only for scenery and beaches but also for high-quality local produce.

Mr Tufnell added: “Vineyards like Velfrey show how Pembrokeshire

businesses can innovate and diversify, creating jobs and opportunities while producing something unique to our area.”

Kurtz calls on new Environment Secretary to back farmers

CARMARTHEn WEST and South Pembrokeshire MS Samuel Kurtz has written to the new Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, urging her to rethink government policy on farming and food security.

Emma Reynolds MP was appointed to the role following Sir Keir Starmer’s general election victory in July, and Mr Kurtz said her arrival offered an opportunity for “fresh thinking” and to

“put right some of the mistakes this government has made.”

In his letter, the Welsh Conservative MS called for two immediate changes: scrapping the so-called “Family Farms Tax” and reinstating a grant to the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC).

FARMIng AT THE HEART OF RURAL WALES

Mr Kurtz, who serves as Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Rural Affairs in the Senedd, said farming remains “the backbone of rural Wales and a cornerstone of the wider UK economy.” He stressed that agriculture provides high-quality produce, sustains rural communities and the Welsh language, and underpins the nation’s food security.

“When our farmers are supported, the benefits are felt far beyond the farm gate,” he wrote. “It strengthens both local economies and the UK as a whole.”

yOUng FARMERS nEED SUPPORT

Drawing on his own background as a former member of the Young Farmers’ movement, Mr Kurtz warned that new taxes and the removal of funding for young farmers would harm the sector at a time when it needs investment.

“The introduction of the Family Farms Tax risks undermining family businesses across Wales and beyond, hitting farmers both young and old,” he

said. “At the same time, the withdrawal of the NFYFC grant removes vital support for the farmers of tomorrow.”

The NFYFC, one of the largest rural youth organisations in the UK, has more than 20,000 members across England and Wales. It provides training, competitions, and social opportunities for young people in agriculture and rural communities. Its government grant was withdrawn in recent years as part of wider funding cuts.

A CALL TO DEFRA

Mr Kurtz urged the new Secretary of State to act quickly, setting out two specific requests:

Scrap the Family Farms Tax – which he said would have a damaging impact on family farms, the rural economy, and food security.

Reinstate the NFYFC grant – to give young people the encouragement and opportunities they need to remain in the industry.

He concluded by asking Ms Reynolds to “place food security, farming families, and the next generation of farmers at the heart of your work in DEFRA.”

The Herald has approached DEFRA for comment.

new advisory group to put lived experience at heart of suicide prevention

PEOPLE with lived experience of suicide and self-harm will help shape national policy and research in Wales, with the first meeting of a new advisory group taking place on World Suicide Prevention Day (Tuesday, September 10).

The People with Lived Experience Advisory Group will support the Wales National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Research, ensuring those who have had suicidal thoughts or behaviours, those who self-harm, and people bereaved by suicide are involved in decision-making at every stage. The group brings together fifteen members from across Wales and from all walks of life.

World Suicide Prevention Day, established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization, is marked every year on September 10 to focus attention on prevention. Samaritans Cymru’s message this year is simple: if you think someone may be suicidal, reach out, help interrupt their thoughts, and show you care. In a Samaritans survey of people with lived experience, most respondents said their suicidal thoughts had been interrupted — with six in ten citing someone close to them, and around one in seven citing a stranger.

Professor Ann John, Swansea University, Director of the National

Centre and Vice-President of IASP, said: “Suicide thoughts and behaviours and self-harm affect thousands of people across Wales, leaving lasting impacts on people, families and communities. This Centre will be a national hub for research and innovation, embedding the voices of the bereaved and those with lived experience, ensuring that policies, interventions, and support systems are informed by the best possible evidence.”

Neil Ingham, Samaritans Executive Director for Wales, said: “True progress in suicide prevention starts by amplifying the voices of those with lived experience. Their experiences challenge assumptions, deepen our understanding, and push us to create prevention and support services that genuinely reflect the realities people face. This Centre is an opportunity to ensure the voice of those with lived experience guides every step we take.”

Members of the new advisory group said the initiative would bring honesty, compassion and urgency to the work.

Clare Sturman, founder of The Sammy-sized GAP, said: “For me, being part of the Advisory Group is about making sure the voices of people who’ve really lived through the effects of suicide or self-harm are central — not just included. I’ve seen how powerful it can be when lived experience shapes research, policy, and support.”

David Phillips, founder of The Anna Phillips Foundation, said: “Loss by suicide is profound and devastating. As a society we must redouble our efforts to tackle the wide-reaching burden of

self-harm and suicide. The National Centre aims to meet this challenge by bringing together rigorous research and the voices of lived experience.”

Si Martin, founder of Heads Above the Waves, said: “I’m a firm believer that people with lived experience should be at the heart of any approach to support folks. If we’re looking to make plans and decisions that will impact people, it makes complete sense to consult the people it’s going to impact.”

The Wales National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Research was launched in April and is led by Swansea University in collaboration with Cardiff University, the University of South Wales and Samaritans Cymru. Funded by Health and Care Research Wales, the Centre forms part of a wider £49m investment in health and social care research, with more than £2m dedicated to suicide prevention and self-harm in Wales.

How to help

If you are worried someone may be suicidal:

• Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide.

• Listen without judgement and stay with them if you can.

• Help them contact support — a GP, a trusted person, or emergency services if there is immediate danger.

If you need support, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Butterflies in Wales fail to recover despite record summer heat

BUTTERFLy numbers across Wales – including in Pembrokeshire’s coastal and upland habitats – remain under long-term pressure despite the hottest UK summer on record, new figures have revealed.

The results of Butterfly Conservation’s annual Big Butterfly Count show that while more insects were seen in 2025 than during last year’s record low, the overall picture remains bleak.

Across Wales, 7,704 people took part in the three-week survey, including nature enthusiasts, families and schools from Pembrokeshire. Together they counted 109,369 butterflies and moths, with an average of 12.2 butterflies per 15-minute count.

The most-seen species in Wales were the Large White (24,246), Small White (18,630), Red Admiral (14,978), Gatekeeper (12,202) and Meadow Brown (9,062). All are familiar sights in Pembrokeshire’s hedgerows, gardens and coastal grasslands.

LOng-TERM DECLInE

Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said the results underline a serious problem:

“We may feel like we’ve seen lots of butterflies this summer, but that’s only because last year was so awful. The figures suggest it’s actually been a pretty

average year by modern standards.

“The 15-year Big Butterfly Count trends show that more than twice as many widespread species have declined significantly than have increased.”

While 2025’s warm summer helped boost numbers of some butterflies, species such as the Common Blue, Meadow Brown and Holly Blue fared badly. The Common Blue, a regular feature in Pembrokeshire meadows, recorded its third worst year on record.

WInnERS AnD LOSERS

There were some bright spots. Both the Large White and Small White had their best ever Big Butterfly Count results. The Jersey Tiger moth, once largely restricted to the south-east of England but now spreading westward, had a record year and was spotted more widely than ever before.

But others struggled. The Small Tortoiseshell, which had its worst year on record in 2024, showed some improvement but remains in steep longterm decline – down 60% since 2011.

PEMBROKESHIRE COnTEXT

Local wildlife groups have long warned that Pembrokeshire’s butterfly populations are under stress from habitat loss, intensive farming practices,

and pesticide use. The county’s diverse landscapes – from Preseli heathlands to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – remain crucial refuges for species that are disappearing elsewhere.

A spokesperson for Butterfly Conservation Wales said: “The results highlight why places like Pembrokeshire are so important. We need to protect meadows, hedgerows and coastal grasslands, as well as encourage wildlife-friendly gardening. Every action helps.”

CALL TO ACTIOn

Butterfly Conservation has now

launched a rescue mission for UK butterflies, urging retailers to stop selling unlicensed synthetic pesticides for domestic use. The charity has opened an online letter for members of the public to sign.

Dr Fox added: “Even when the weather is good, the environment can now only support far fewer butterflies than it used to. The time to act is now. Until we restore habitats and reduce pesticide use, we will not see a real recovery.”

The Big Butterfly Count will return in 2026, running between July 17 and August 9.

nominations open for Sport Pembrokeshire Awards 2025

nOMInATIOnS have opened for the Sport Pembrokeshire Awards 2025, which will once again honour the county’s sporting heroes.

The prestigious awards night will be held at Folly Farm on Friday, November 28, marking another year of sporting achievement across the county.

The awards recognise the achievements of individuals and teams, as well as the dedication of volunteers and coaches who make community sport possible.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said he hoped the record entries of recent years would be matched or surpassed.

“It has been an incredible summer, with Wales’ women footballers taking part in their first major tournament a highlight,” he said.

“Now we turn our attention to a sporting highlight of our own. The Sport Pembrokeshire Awards go from strength to strength, and 2025 will be no different.

“The awards are a chance to celebrate success at all levels, while thanking those, particularly the volunteers, who are essential for grassroots sport.”

Nominations close on October 12. Categories this year include:

• Coach of the Year

• Female Sporting Achievement

• Male Sporting Achievement

• Boys (U16) Sporting Achievement

• Girls (U16) Sporting Achievement

• Disability Sport Award

• Junior (U16) Disability Sport Award

• Unsung Hero

• Club Organiser of the Year

• Team Achievement of the Year

• Junior (U16) Team Achievement of the Year

• Young Volunteer of the Year

• Club of the Year

• Lifetime Achievement

An additional Schools Award, announced on the night, will recognise a school that goes the extra mile to make sport and physical activity

fun, inclusive, and innovative, while building strong community links. The awards are supported by sponsors Valero, Pure West Radio and Folly Farm.

Nominations can be made online at:

https://www.pembrokeshire. gov.uk/forge/index. asp?x=336DEC64E3&lang=eng

nobles of narberth to close after a century of service

OnE of narberth’s best-known businesses is preparing to close its doors for the final time after almost 100 years of trading.

Nobles of Narberth, the longestablished newsagent on High Street, will shut on Saturday, September 20, following the retirement of its owner Mark Sturgess.

Mark, aged 62, has run the business for 37 years after taking over from his father David, who bought the premises in 1988 from the Walker family. The Walkers had earlier purchased the shop from Mr and Mrs Noble, who gave the store its enduring name.

At its peak, Nobles delivered more than 350 daily newspapers each weekday morning, with Mark starting his day at 4:00am to ensure customers got their papers on time. That number had dwindled to around 150 in recent years as more readers switched to digital news.

The Herald itself sold newspapers at Nobles until July 2023, when the publication went fully digital. Since then, readership has soared, with a record 12 million story views via social media in the past month alone, alongside 1.1 million interactions. On September 7, 2025, The Herald recorded its busiest ever day online, with 1.8 million Facebook story views — underlining the dramatic

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

shift in how people now access their news.

Nobles became known not only for newspapers but also for its wide stock of stationery, cards, tobacco, snacks and ice cream. Until 2020, paper rounds were still carried out by local boys and girls, including Mark’s daughter Dom, now 29, who was the last to take on the role.

Reflecting on his years behind the counter, Mark said: “I’ll miss the interaction with customers and the banter. But I’ve got no real plans for retirement – I’ll probably still be up at 4:00am.”

Three long-serving staff members –Elaine Williams, Claire Townsend, and Linda Lawson – are also leaving as the shop winds down. Customers have shared dozens of messages online praising Nobles’ role in community life.

“Many thanks for delivering our papers in all weathers over the years,” wrote one. Another said: “Thank you for your part in making Narberth such a lovely place to live.”

The building has been sold to a local buyer, with plans to continue its use as a retail premises.

The closure marks the end of an era for

Paul Sartori Foundation announces 43rd annual meeting

THE Paul Sartori Foundation will hold its 43rd Annual general Meeting later this month, giving members of the public a chance to hear about the charity’s work across Pembrokeshire.

The meeting takes place at Pembrokeshire College, Haverfordwest, on Wednesday, September 24. Doors open at 5:30pm, with proceedings beginning at 6:00pm.

The event is open to the public and will include updates on the charity’s achievements, finances and future plans. It also offers an opportunity to meet staff, volunteers and trustees of the Foundation, which provides vital hospice-at-home services for people with life-limiting illnesses.

The Paul Sartori Foundation, named after Father Paul Sartori who championed hospice care before his death in 1980, has grown to become Pembrokeshire’s only hospice-at-home service, offering hands-on nursing care, equipment loan, complementary therapies, bereavement and counselling support.

To assist with catering numbers, anyone planning to attend is asked to confirm in advance by emailing lisa@ paulsartori.org.

The Foundation said it looks forward to welcoming supporters, partners and members of the community to share in its continuing mission of providing free end-of-life care at home.

Narberth, while also highlighting the wider changes sweeping the industry

as Pembrokeshire readers increasingly turn to online news.

Homelessness remains stubbornly high in Wales despite small progress

THE SALVATIOn ARMy says the latest figures on homelessness in Wales highlight the urgent need to address underlying issues such as poor mental health, relationship breakdown and poverty.

Statistics published by the Welsh Government show that in 2024/25, councils assessed 13,287 households as homeless – a slight fall of 2% compared with 2023/24, but still a figure that has remained broadly unchanged in recent years.

The Salvation Army, one of the UK’s largest providers of homelessness services, argues that preventing people from reaching crisis point is the most effective way to tackle the problem.

Andrew Connell, Policy Manager at The Salvation Army, said: “It’s good to see a fall in the number of people experiencing homelessness in Wales last year. We must remember that the trend over time has been ever upwards and that needs to be reversed.

“The Homelessness and Social Housing Allocation Bill, which is currently going through the Senedd, contains a lot that we would welcome, especially its emphasis on prevention and widening access to homelessness services. However, both the Westminster and Welsh Governments must address the shortage of affordable housing stock, especially social housing.”

Catherine Docherty, Area Operations Manager for The Salvation Army’s Homeless Services in Wales, added:

“Every person deserves a safe place to call home. It’s encouraging to see a slight reduction in the number of people experiencing homelessness in Wales last year, but the landscape of homelessness is complex and underpinned by poverty, mental health, relationship breakdown and substance use.”

Earlier this year, The Salvation Army welcomed the introduction of the Homelessness and Social Housing Allocation (Wales) Bill, but urged the Welsh Government to seize the chance to reset funding, promote collaboration and improve support. Among its

proposals are stronger cooperation between public services – including councils, the NHS and the justice system – alongside better funding and more effective sharing of information to prevent homelessness before it starts.

PEMBROKESHIRE PICTURE

In Pembrokeshire, the problem is becoming more visible. Local charity Homeless Pembrokeshire reported that in August alone, 14 people sought its help, with three unable to secure accommodation because they owned pets.

Amanda Evans, from the charity, said: “Low income, domestic abuse, poor mental health, lack of affordable housing, and addiction are some of the contributing factors we have seen. We desperately need funds to keep up with demand; tents and rucksacks are particularly in short supply.”

The Paul Sartori Foundation recently donated sleeping bags to the charity, which described the support as a great help.

POLITICAL DEBATE InTEnSIFIES

The issue of homelessness has also sparked a political row. Reports of drug use, violent assaults and human waste at a tent encampment in a Cardiff city centre underpass have left residents fearful and demanding action.

Joel James MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, said: “The shocking scenes that have unfolded in a popular Cardiff city underpass are a damning indictment of how the Labourrun Cardiff Council and the Welsh Government have failed to get a grip on homelessness. Behind every tent is a person in crisis—someone who’s been failed by a broken system.”

The Welsh Government says it is investing record levels in social housing and prevention services and has pledged to end homelessness in Wales by making support “rapid, effective and available to everyone who needs it.”

Bid to turn Puncheston village pub into flats refused

A CALL to convert a former Pembrokeshire village pub, which became commercially unviable, to flats has been refused by county planners.

Sandra Davis, of O & D Enterprises Ltd, through agent Gerald Blain Associates Limited, sought a partlyretrospect permission for a change of use of the Drovers Arms, Puncheston to four residential flats.

The application sought to regularise works undertaken at the beginning of 2024 which were subject to an enforcement notice from Pembrokeshire County Council, a supporting statement said.

It added: “The public house ceased trading in 2022 following the departure

of the previous landlord, at which point the premises were returned to the owner/applicant. The public house previously comprised two bar areas, one located within the road-facing elevation and a larger bar situated in a rear extension.

“While the rear bar remains in place, the front bar has been removed to facilitate residential use. The commercial kitchen and toilet facilities are still intact, as are the first floor letting rooms and the landlord’s flat.”

It said the proposed scheme “would remodel the interior of the building to create four residential flats,” the enforcement notice “in relation to the change of use of the ground floor to residential use, replacement of a flat roof with pitched standing seam roof and erection of UPVC cladding,” adding: “This application now seeks to rectify these matters and convert the remainder of the building into flats.”

The statement said that, according to the British Beer and Pub Association (2025), 2,250 pubs have closed across the UK aover the past five years, with 289 in 2024 alone, adding: “The challenges are particularly acute in rural areas such as Puncheston, where both population density and passing trade

are limited. Many rural pubs depend heavily on seasonal summer trade, which makes achieving year-round sustainability even more difficult.”

An officer report recommending refusal said Puncheston Community Council objected due to loss of public house having a negative impact on the village community, lack of services to support the development and fears of an increase in anti-social behaviour. Ten letters of objection raised concerns including the unauthorised works, the public house has not been marketed, not being in keeping with area, a high level of residents, inadequate parking, lack of services and amenities, the loss of a community facility, and fears of anti-social behaviour and safeguarding issues.

The application was refused on the grounds it would likely lead to an increase foul wastewater, with insufficient information and evidence of foul drainage proposals, and would result in the loss of the public house community facility, with insufficient information provided that “the continued use of this facility has been shown to be no longer viable or that a suitable replacement facility is to be made available”.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

First millennial saint: Carlo Acutis relics visited West Wales ahead of canonisation

THE CAnOnISATIOn of Carlo Acutis, the London-born teenager declared a saint in Rome on Sunday (Sept 7), has a special resonance in Pembrokeshire, where parishioners travelled earlier this year to venerate his relics in West Wales.

Known as “God’s influencer,” Acutis used his love of technology to create websites documenting miracles and teaching about the Catholic faith. He died of leukaemia aged just fifteen in 2006, and became the first saint of the millennial generation following a

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

ceremony at St Peter’s Square, presided over by Pope Leo.

RELIC TOUR OF WALES

In February 2025, a first-class relic of Acutis — a fragment of the membrane surrounding his heart — toured the Archdiocese of CardiffMenevia. Thousands gathered to pay their respects as the relic visited the Metropolitan Cathedral Church of St David in Cardiff, Belmont Abbey, St Joseph’s Co-Cathedral in Swansea, the Church of the Sacred Heart in Morriston, and Blessed Carlo Acutis School in Merthyr Tydfil.

Among those present were parishioners from Pembrokeshire, who travelled by bus to attend the veneration. The group joined hundreds of others in prayers, Mass and Adoration, making a direct link between local Catholics and the global moment of Sunday’s canonisation.

CLERgy REFLECTIOnS

At Belmont Abbey, Father Matt told parishioners: “The very place that we loved Jesus from was enriched by the presence of Carlo’s relic. His witness speaks across generations, showing that holiness is possible in ordinary life.”

In Cardiff, Archbishop Mark O’Toole welcomed the relic and celebrated Mass, describing Acutis as “a model for young people who long for meaning in a digital world.”

An InSPIRATIOn FOR yOUTH

Carlo was born in Chelsea in 1991 to Italian parents who were temporarily living in London, before moving back to Milan. He enjoyed football and video games, and is remembered for saying: “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” His mother, Antonia Salzano, has said that miracles were attributed to him from the day of his funeral, beginning

with the healing of a woman suffering from cancer. Two of these miracles were formally recognised by the Vatican in the process leading to his sainthood.

LOCAL PRIDE In gLOBAL MOMEnT

For the Pembrokeshire parishioners who made the journey by bus earlier this year, the canonisation has an added meaning. They were among the first in the UK to venerate his relic and pray before it, connecting their own parish life to the wider Catholic Church.

As Father Matt reflected: “Carlo shows us that sanctity is not distant. It is real, it is alive, and it is possible today.”

End of summer garden party planned at Lord nelson Hotel

THE LORD nELSOn HOTEL in Milford Haven has announced it will host a special End of Summer garden Party later this month.

The event is set to take place on Saturday, September 20, and promises an afternoon and evening of live entertainment, DJs and guest performers.

Organisers say the party will celebrate the close of the summer season with music, drinks, and a lively outdoor atmosphere. More details, including the line-up of DJs and special guests, are expected to be released in the coming days.

The Lord Nelson, a popular Milford Haven venue, has hosted a range of live events and themed evenings throughout the year, with the garden party expected to be one of its biggest highlights of the calendar.

Residents and visitors are being encouraged to save the date and keep an eye out for updates from the hotel.

Schools must prioritise high-quality teaching

A nEW thematic report from Estyn has underlined the pivotal role of high-quality teaching in realising the ambitions of the Curriculum for Wales and improving learner outcomes.

Drawing on visits to 25 schools across Wales – including primary, secondary and all-age settings –alongside recent inspection evidence, the report showcases strong practice where schools have embedded consistent, purposeful approaches to pedagogy. It also calls for a renewed national focus on teaching quality to ensure pupils across Wales benefit equally.

Inspectors found that many schools have established clear, whole-school visions for teaching that align with the curriculum’s purposes. Where this is supported by structured professional learning, teaching is having a positive impact on pupils’ progress, engagement and wellbeing.

However, the report also warns that in a minority of schools, expectations for teaching quality remain unclear, leading to inconsistent practice and weaker outcomes for learners.

His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales, Owen Evans, said: “High-quality teaching is the heartbeat of education reform in Wales. As we move further into the

implementation of Curriculum for Wales, our evidence shows that when schools put pedagogy at the centre of their work – and when teachers are supported through ongoing, collaborative professional learning – pupils thrive.

But this is not yet the case everywhere. We need a consistent, national commitment to improving teaching across all phases, so that every pupil, in every classroom, benefits from engaging and effective learning.”

The report identifies five key features

of strong teaching:

• Clear learning intentions and wellstructured lessons

• Purposeful curriculum planning that builds knowledge and skills over time

• Effective use of formative assessment to adapt teaching and encourage pupil reflection

• Use of authentic and local contexts to deepen engagement and strengthen identity

• Sustained, collaborative professional learning focused on pedagogy

The most effective schools are also embedding teaching priorities into selfevaluation and improvement planning, using wide-ranging evidence and professional dialogue to focus on how well pupils are learning, not just what is being taught.

The report cautions against superficial use of the curriculum’s four purposes in lesson planning or assessment. In some schools, staff are assessing directly against the four purposes rather than focusing on the underlying knowledge and skills pupils need to develop, leading to less meaningful learning experiences.

In addition, inspectors found that limited time and budget constraints in some schools restrict access to highquality professional learning, with training often focusing on statutory compliance rather than deepening teaching expertise.

Estyn is calling on schools, local authorities and national partners to maintain a strong, system-wide focus on teaching. It says that sustained professional learning, reflective leadership and a collaborative culture are essential if the Curriculum for Wales is to achieve its full ambitions.

Classic wheels bring warmth to a rainy day

THE PEMBROKESHIRE COUnTy RUn returned today (Sept 7), drawing onlookers in towns and villages across the county as an eclectic mix of vehicles took to the road in aid of the Paul Sartori Foundation.

Starting from the County Showground in Haverfordwest, drivers gathered from 8:30am for breakfast rolls, tea and coffee before the first cars rolled out at 10:30am. Despite the steady rain, the atmosphere was upbeat as engines revved and horns sounded for the charity cause.

The run, now firmly established on the motoring calendar, followed a scenic 45-mile route through some of Pembrokeshire’s most picturesque countryside, finishing at the Dyfed Shire Horse Farm in Eglwyswrw. Along the way, families lined the roads to wave at the passing convoy, with many braving the weather to see the spectacle.

Jeffrey Edwards, the event’s founder said: “Today, Sian and I along with our dear friend Alex took part on the wonderful Paul Sartori Pembrokeshire Car Run .. which Sian and I created back in 1998 as just one of our four highly successful Pembrokeshire County Motoring Events which we first staged in 1997.

“Over the years tens of thousands of vehicles attended these motoring events to both promote our beautiful county of Pembrokeshire and helped to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

“Sadly in 2021 when I was diagnosed with serious additional health issues… we took the wise decision to bring our Pembrokeshire County Motoring Events to an end.

“Sian and I were delighted when the wonderful Paul Sartori Foundation agreed to continue this highly successful motoring event, complete with it’s original format under its new name of the Paul Sartori Pembrokeshire Car Run .

“With our dear friend the wonderful Alex at the wheel, we ALL had a wonderful day .. despite the weather.”

Head-turners on the day included a pristine Rolls Royce, a Jaguar XK, a Ford Anglia reminiscent of the Harry Potter films, and even a Reliant Robin decorated in McLaren Formula One colours. Military vehicles, pickups and Morris Minors also made the journey, showcasing the diversity and character of the run.

Each entry cost £5, with all proceeds donated to the Paul Sartori Foundation, which provides vital hospice-at-home services for people across Pembrokeshire. Organisers said the event is about more than cars: “It’s about community spirit, keeping heritage alive and raising money for a cause that touches so many families.”

As the convoy reached its finish, the Dyfed Shire Horse Farm offered a fitting rural backdrop where visitors could chat with owners, swap restoration stories and enjoy the lineup of classic vehicles.

With engines cooled and raincoats drying out, one thing was clear: the Pembrokeshire County Run remains a

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

highlight of the local calendar, blending motoring passion with community purpose.

Head-turners on the day included a pristine Rolls Royce, a Jaguar XK, a Ford Anglia reminiscent of the Harry Potter films, and even a Reliant Robin decorated in McLaren Formula One colours. Military vehicles, pickups and Morris Minors also made the journey, showcasing the diversity and character of the run.

Each entry cost £5, with all proceeds donated to the Paul Sartori Foundation, which provides vital hospice-at-home services for people across Pembrokeshire.

Organisers said the event is about more than cars: “It’s about community spirit, keeping heritage alive and raising money for a cause that touches so many families.”

As the convoy reached its finish, the Dyfed Shire Horse Farm offered a fitting rural backdrop where visitors could chat with owners, swap restoration stories and enjoy the lineup of classic vehicles.

With engines cooled and raincoats drying out, one thing was clear: the Pembrokeshire County Run remains a highlight of the local calendar, blending motoring passion with community purpose.

The photos, plus more on our Facebook Page, by Malcolm Richards.

Part of Folly Farm to close for major renovation

PART of Pembrokeshire’s awardwinning Folly Farm will close from Monday, September 8, as the popular attraction undergoes a significant refurbishment.

The focus of the renovation is the park’s much-loved castle play area, which has been a favourite for more than two decades. Generations of children have climbed, explored, and let their imaginations run wild within its walls. Now, after 20 years of service, the old play area is being retired to make way for a modern, knight-themed castle, complete with a striking red Welsh dragon designed for sliding, spinning, and balancing.

Luke Sinclair Luke@herald.email

“This popular play attraction has been at the park for over 20 years and has come to the end of its lifespan,” said a Folly Farm spokesperson. “We’re excited to start work on a new and improved adventure play area for you to explore.”

This refurbishment follows the successful first phase of the playground upgrade, which began last October with the opening of the Pirate Island adventure play area. Since then, young pirates have been enjoying the new features, which include wet-pour rubber

surfaces, wheelchair-accessible ramps, a companion slide, and low-level interactive play elements. Folly Farm says these improvements have greatly enhanced play value for children, and promises the castle upgrade will deliver the same.

The new castle play area is being designed by Cardiganshire-based Adventure Playgrounds Wales, who have incorporated two decades of advancements in playground design and equipment. Red Lynch Leisure, a leading provider of specialist surfacing and play equipment, will install the new play area using high-quality Scandinavian hardwood and Lappset equipment, ensuring it provides years of safe, engaging fun.

“Using local suppliers to install a more sustainable play area in line with our goals to offer more accessible elements along with a greater play value is key to ensuring we build a new and improved castle for the enjoyment of our young guests,” said Folly Farm managing director Chris Ebsworth.

While the castle play area is closed for the refurbishment, Black Bart’s Pirate Cove, Pirate Island, and all other adventure play zones will remain open as normal.

“Keep checking our social channels for the latest news and updates on this newest investment,” Folly Farm added. “We promise to keep you posted on opening dates so you can come and play pirates again.”

Milford Haven site manager wins top house-building award

A MILFORD HAVEn site manager has been recognised among Wales’ best for raising standards in house building.

John Greggain of L Greggain & Co Limited was awarded a coveted Pride in the Job Seal of Excellence by the

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

National House Building Council (NHBC) at the Pride in the Job Awards 2025, held at the Cardiff Marriott Hotel on Friday (Sept 5).

The award – regarded as one of the most prestigious in the UK housing industry – celebrates exceptional leadership and attention to detail on construction projects. Mr Greggain was one of just eight site managers across Wales to receive the accolade this year,

after first securing a Quality Award in June.

Other winners included Rhun Williams of John Kelly Construction Services in Caernarfon, John Coburn of Wates Residential in Cardiff, and Paul Oakley of Bellway Homes Wales, also in Cardiff, who each won their respective builder categories.

Now in its 45th year, the Pride in the Job Awards are described as the ‘Oscars’ of the house-building industry. Site managers are assessed on consistency, health and safety, technical expertise, and interpretation of drawings, among other criteria.

Luke Carter, NHBC Regional Director for West & Wales, said: “Congratulations to all the winners. They have demonstrated the dedication, passion and leadership skills necessary to deliver new homes to exacting construction quality standards.”

Regional winners will now go forward to compete for the Supreme Awards at a gala ceremony in London in January 2026.

Craft Festival Wales opens in Cardigan with record crowds

CRAFT FESTIVAL WALES opened its doors at Cardigan Castle on Friday (Sept 5), drawing record visitor numbers and setting the tone for a busy weekend of craft, creativity and celebration.

The event was officially opened by broadcaster and author Kate Humble, with more than 1,000 people passing through the gates on the first day alone. Organisers say the festival, which launched last year, is now confirmed as an annual fixture in Cardigan thanks to support from Event Wales, Arts Council of Wales, the Ceredigion County Council Shared Prosperity Fund and

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

local businesses.

Among the special guests on Friday was First Minister Eluned Morgan MS, who presented two of the festival’s key awards. Textile designer and weaver Llio James, originally from Talybont and now based in Cardiff, was named ‘Best Maker in Wales’. The ‘Best Stand’ award went to Justyna Medon of Addicted to Patterns, a surface decoration and printmaking specialist from Pontyrhyl near Bridgend.

Craft Festival Wales features 100 professional makers from across the UK, each chosen by an independent panel for the quality and originality of their work. Exhibitors include jewellery makers, ceramicists, glass artists, wood and metalworkers, furniture makers, and textile designers.

The festival continues over the weekend, running from 10:00am to 5:00pm on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are available online or at the gate, priced at £8 for adults, with children entering free when accompanied by an adult. A three-day weekend ticket is also available for £15.

The event is curated by Sarah James MBE, who has been creating award-winning craft festivals across the UK since 2003. She was recognised with an MBE for services to craft in King Charles’ Birthday Honours in 2023.

Craft Festival Wales was awarded ‘Event of the Year’ at the Caru Ceredigion Awards in 2024, and organisers are confident this year’s strong start will help cement its reputation as one of Wales’ leading cultural events. For full details of exhibitors, workshops and activities, visit craftfestival.co.uk/wales

Families flock to Haverfordwest Fire Station open day

HAVERFORDWEST Fire Station threw open its doors on Saturday (Sept 6), welcoming hundreds of visitors for a packed open day showcasing the lifesaving work of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Crowds of families gathered in the station yard to explore fire engines, specialist appliances and equipment up close, with children and adults alike able to step inside the cabs and meet local firefighters.

Demonstrations throughout the afternoon gave visitors the chance to see the tools and kit in action, from hoses and breathing apparatus to the impressive aerial ladder platform, which towered above the crowd as firefighters explained how it is used during high-rise rescues and major incidents.

Among the appliances on display were Milford Haven’s water carrier, frontline pumping appliances, and a variety of rescue tools, all of which proved popular with curious youngsters eager to try out helmets and ask questions.

The event drew a large turnout, with families filling the yard and surrounding area to watch demonstrations and learn more about fire safety. Firefighters were on hand to give advice on smoke

alarms, home fire safety checks, and recruitment opportunities for those interested in joining the service.

One parent attending told The Herald: “It’s brilliant for the kids to see

behind the scenes. They’re fascinated by the fire engines, but it’s also really educational – it’s made us all think more about fire safety at home.”

Haverfordwest Fire Station’s open

day is part of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s ongoing work to engage with the community and raise awareness of the vital work carried out by crews across Pembrokeshire.

Broadcaster and author Kate Humble cuts the ribbon to open Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle, joined by Sarah James MBE and Councillor Olwen Davies, Mayor of Cardigan

First Minister Eluned Morgan MS with textile designer and weaver Llio James, winner of the ‘Best Maker in Wales’ award at Craft Festival Wales 2025 (Pic: Herald).

Haverfordwest river festival hailed a huge success

HAVERFORDWEST river festival drew large crowds on Saturday (Sept 6) as the town came together to celebrate its heritage and the River Cleddau.

From Castle Square to the Quayside, thousands of people enjoyed a packed programme of entertainment, activities and live performances. The event, known as the Castle to Quay Festival, ran from 10:00am until 6:00pm and was described by visitors as fantastic, well attended and very well organised.

The day featured live music, market

stalls, storytelling, face painting and children’s craft activities. Visitors were able to join guided walks around the town and castle, while free canoe trips proved especially popular, timed with the afternoon high tide to welcome boats into the quay.

Local groups and environmental projects took centre stage. The Cleddau Project hosted events at Haverhub, encouraging people to learn more about

the river’s importance and how they could get involved in protecting it. Organisers were praised for delivering a smooth and welcoming event that

brought together all ages. Many who attended said they hoped the River Festival would now become a regular fixture in Haverfordwest’s calendar.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Planning secured for Pembroke Dock FLOW base

PEMBROKESHIRE COUnTy

COUnCIL has approved plans to create a dedicated floating offshore wind (FLOW) storage compound –marking the next step in the multiphased transformation of Pembroke Dock into a world-class renewables hub.

The development, led by the Port of Milford Haven, will prepare the site to support the roll-out of FLOW in the Celtic Sea. As part of the Criterion Quay scheme, the project will clear and regrade disused land west of Criterion Way. Located within the Celtic Freeport’s Milford Haven Tax Site, the new facility will provide a deep-water base for marshalling, maintenance and operations linked to the region’s expanding offshore energy sector. While commercialisation of the industry gathers pace, Criterion Quay will already contribute to Pembroke Dock’s economic potential by offering secure storage areas.

The milestone has been welcomed by the Port of Milford Haven and key political and industry figures.

Tom Sawyer, CEO of the Port of Milford Haven and board member of the Celtic Freeport, said: “This is an important step in realising Pembroke

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Dock’s role at the heart of the UK’s floating offshore wind revolution over the years ahead. The new infrastructure will give FLOW developers the specialist deep-water facilities they need right on the doorstep of the Celtic Sea arrays.”

Luciana Ciubotariu, CEO of Celtic Freeport, said: “We welcome this important step forward for Pembroke Dock. This project will bring critical land back into use and provide vital infrastructure to deliver floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea. It represents further progress towards building a new industry in Wales that will create jobs, attract investment and support the UK’s journey to net zero.”

Ben Burggraaf, CEO of Net Zero Industry Wales, said: “The approval of the plan to create a dedicated floating offshore wind storage compound is a small, but important step in positioning South Wales ports at the heart of the UK’s emerging FLOW industry. This source of wind energy, alongside other low-carbon generation, will enable Wales to position itself as a leading energy transition hub, while maintaining its role as a cornerstone of the UK’s industrial base.”

Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, said: “This latest development in Pembroke Dock brings us closer to realising Pembrokeshire’s potential to become a world leader in floating offshore wind. This new industry will bring jobs and prosperity to the region. I am committed to a jobs-first approach to net zero and will continue to support new energy infrastructure projects like this that will benefit our local economy and communities.”

Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire and Shadow

Minister for Economy and Energy, said: “This project is another exciting step in Pembroke Dock’s transformation into a world-class diverse energy hub, placing our community at the heart of the UK’s floating offshore wind revolution. For generations, Pembrokeshire has been central to the nation’s energy security, and this development helps safeguard that role for the future. As someone Pembrokeshire born and bred, I know how vital the port is to our county’s prosperity, and this investment offers a long-term future of clean energy, skilled jobs, and fresh opportunities for generations to come.”

£3,000 donation helps VC Gallery continue free community breakfasts

HAVERFORDWEST Town Council has donated £3,000 to The VC gallery, supporting the charity’s popular Free Friday Breakfast initiative.

The donation was formally presented at the gallery on Friday (Sept 5), with councillors including the Mayor and Mayoress, Roy and Shirley Thomas, attending alongside Cllr Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner.

The funding will ensure the gallery can continue to provide its weekly breakfast sessions, which are open to all members of the community free of charge. The initiative has become a lifeline for many, offering not only a hot meal but also a safe and welcoming space for people to meet.

Cllr Thomas-Turner said the

donation underlined the council’s commitment to supporting grassroots organisations: “This just shows how dedicated Haverfordwest Town Council is to our local groups, which make our town the best in the West.”

Mayor Roy Thomas added: “The VC Gallery plays a vital role in bringing people together and providing muchneeded support. We are pleased to be able to contribute to their work.”

The VC Gallery, based on High Street, supports veterans, the community and those in need through art, outreach, and social projects. Its Free Friday Breakfast has grown in popularity, with volunteers serving meals to dozens each week.

Vintage motorcycles roar into Saundersfoot for annual meet

SAU n DERSFOOT came alive with the sound of classic engines today (Saturday, September 6) as dozens of vintage motorcycles and trikes rolled into the seaside village for a popular gathering of enthusiasts.

BMW, Triumph and Honda. From the distinctive lines of 1960s and 70s café racers to the elegant styling of post-war British bikes, there was something to stir the nostalgia of every motorcycling fan.

The event, which has become a firm favourite on the local calendar, saw crowds line the streets to watch the convoy of classic bikes parade through Saundersfoot before parking up for spectators to admire. Visitors had the chance to chat with owners, many of whom have spent years restoring their machines to pristine condition.

Among the highlights were immaculately kept Honda CB models, a striking Moto Guzzi tourer, and a selection of British classics that harked back to the golden age of motorcycling. There were also a number of rare three-wheeled cars which turned heads as they joined the line-up.

Organisers said the event was not just about showcasing engineering heritage, but also about community spirit, with the gathering attracting families, locals and tourists alike.

Riders from across West Wales and beyond took part, proudly showing off gleaming machines from marques including Moto Guzzi,

The Herald understands that the Saundersfoot meet continues to grow in popularity each year, cementing its reputation as one of the standout vintage motorcycling events in Pembrokeshire.

(Pics: Malcolm Richards)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

W HE n Wayward arrives on n etflix UK this September 25, it promises to be a chilling plunge into suburban disquiet, led by the singular voice of Mae Martin, whose work often makes us laugh but now makes us gasp. This eight-episode limited series takes the familiar setting of a quaint small town—Tall Pines—and drapes it in an eerie, sinister atmosphere that’s just at home in a noir thriller as it is in a psychological horror. Martin stars as Alex Dempsey, a new cop settling into life with his pregnant partner when he crosses paths with two desperate teens from a local “troubled teen” academy—a school with supposedly noble intentions but clearly rotten at the core.

The teens, Abbie and Leila, are portrayed with striking emotional realism, and their fear feels both urgent and heartbreaking.

At the helm of the institution is Evelyn Wade, embodied by Toni Collette in a performance that radiates both brittle warmth and jagged menace. One moment she’s charismatic, wrapped in doe-eyed calm; the next, her presence turns icy, and you’re left unnerved by the suggestion of what lurks beneath. The narrative

unfolds methodically, weaving in layers of surreal dread and dry humour that form a tonal tapestry unusual for mainstream streaming offerings. you get the sense of Mae Martin channeling adolescent chaos—the confusion, the longing, the trap—through a lens of genre playfulness that echoes films such as Booksmart tangled up with One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s n est.

Despite its fantastical overtones, Wayward feels rooted in something real— grief, parental dreams gone awry, institutions turning empathy into control. Martin’s own reflections on adolescence and the clinical “re-education” industrial complex apparently informed the story, lending it sincerity amid the assembled paranoia. you sense that Tall Pines itself is a character—a lush, varnished facade hiding fractured souls and moral compromises. The creative team paints this world with effortless tension, and every pastoral shot becomes a trapdoor.

The show doesn’t rush; instead, it simmers, offering moments of quiet dread punctuated by sudden jolts— an adolescent confession, a

door cracked in the night, a confident speech by Evelyn that feels too rehearsed. And yet, for all its darkness, there are glimmers of levity— Martin’s trademark wit isn’t absent; rather, it sneaks through in the tenuous rapport between Alex and the teens, or the off-kilter calm before the storm. It’s this blend—the touching, the horrific, the uncanny—that makes Wayward compelling. you find yourself leaning in, eager to see which character cracks first—or if the town itself will swallow them all.

By the time the series reaches its crescendo, you’re left unsettled—not just by the twists themselves, but by the implications they carry: a societal microscope on how institutions manipulate trauma under the guise of healing, the brutality of adolescence refracted through adult denial, and the way buried truths claw their way back up. It’s a thrilling, genre-bending ride, emotionally sharp and tonally daring, anchored by bold performances and a singular creative vision. Wayward might just be this fall’s most intriguing thriller—a reminder that the most picturesque places can hide the darkest secrets.

CliCk to

WE’RE about to crank the amps back to eleven with Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, a mockumentary reunion that finally gives fans of the original mockumentary the send-off they’ve both longed for and simultaneously feared might never arrive. Picking up more than forty years after the iconic This Is Spinal Tap, the film reassembles the misadventurous rock titans— nigel Tufnel, David St. Hubbins and Derek Smalls—under the watchful lens of Marty Di Bergi, once again portrayed by Rob Reiner, whose swooping camera and gleefully off-balance narration are as lovingly skewed as ever. The conceit is simple yet rich with possibilities: a legally mandated final concert (thanks to the will of their late manager), which forces the three estranged musicians out of their half-baked solo careers and into one last barrage of backstage mayhem, absurd musical dramatics and “can we still rock?” angst.

What unfolds feels like a deliriously affectionate fan letter wrapped in a self-aware demolition of rock clichés. The returning trio—Michael McKean, Christopher guest and Harry Shearer—slide back into their roles with the same effortless chemistry that made the original legendary, and their improvisational chops prove that age has only sharpened their comedic timing. The script may be thin, but the humor is

incandescent, especially when the band grapples with their fragmented legacy, touring disasters, and the ever-present danger that their 12th drummer might follow them into the great Beyond.

What elevates this outing is the gleaming array of cameos from music royalty. Elton John, Paul McCartney, Questlove, garth Brooks and Trisha yearwood show up just enough to electrify without overshadowing the Tap’s vaudevillian chaos, and in a sublimely tonguein-cheek turn Elton John performs a reimagined version of “Stonehenge,” roaring onto the stage at a piano as only Elton could—complete with his trademark flair and a knowing wink that acknowledges how impossibly surreal it is that Spinal Tap has recruited real rock icons for a fictional sendup. The soundtrack album, released in sync with the film, offers fresh tracks and rerecorded classics, including sumptuous reinterpretations of “Big Bottom” (with Brooks and yearwood) and “Flower People,” offering another layer of tonguefirmly-in-cheek indulgence.

Shot in part at the real Stonehenge in Wiltshire, the climactic concert scene feels like the perfect, absurd bookend to the original’s (in)famous “minute-high” Stonehenge disaster, and bridges with metaglory the film’s fictional lore and

the real world’s love-fest with these characters. The film’s UK release on 12 September gives a homecoming-worthy moment: a British-set concert and staging for this beloved fictional band that was, after all, presented as England’s loudest and most punctual export.

Ultimately, The End Continues doesn’t reinvent the wheel. It’s not going to supplant This Is Spinal Tap in the pantheon of the greatest comedies of all time. But it doesn’t need to. What it delivers is more of the affectionate absurdity, backstage calamity and lovingly exaggerated rock-‘n’-roll selfparody that fans cherish— pilfered amps, malfunctioning pyrotechnics and all. There’s a subtle thread of poignancy here too, as the band confronts aging, broken friendships and the lingering beats of misguided glory. For anyone who grew up hearing, “it goes to eleven,” this is pure nostalgia turned ampwrenching joy: messy, loud, and unapologetically tapping into the spirit of rock mythology—and ending, fittingly, with a cymbal smash.

So if you’ve kept your eyeliner sharp, your amps turned to the maximum, and your sense of irony intact, this final bow from Spinal Tap in UK cinemas this September feels just about right—chaotic, heartfelt and perfectly loud.

CliCk to

Tech and Taff

IPHOnES, WATCHES AnD THE PRICE OF PROgRESS

APPLE spent over an hour last night showing off their latest gadgets – with the iPhone 17, AirPods Pro 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 taking centre stage.

But before you go flogging your old kit on Facebook Marketplace for £30 and a Freddo, let’s break down what’s actually worth caring about.

SAME WATCH, DIFFEREnT DAy?

The Apple Watch Series 11 brings a few nifty features: a blood pressure sensor, longer battery life, and built-in 5G –so you can pretend you’re in Star Trek while texting from your wrist.

That said, if you’ve already got a Series 10 – or even a 7 or 8 – there’s not much reason to upgrade. Apple’s watches are becoming a bit like the Carmarthen Show –reliable, familiar, but not wildly different from year to year. Still, the arrival of the Series 11 has had one useful effect: older models are now going for peanuts.

BARgAIn HUnTERS, ASSEMBLE

Right now, you can grab a refurbished Apple Watch Series 5 on Wowcher for just £99 – down from £369 when it first launched in 2019. That’s the model that introduced the always-on display, meaning no more flapping your wrist around like you’re doing the YMCA just to check the time.

Yes, it’s not brand new –and might have a ding or two – but it still tracks your heart rate, records workouts, links to Strava, and crucially, tells the time. At that price, you won’t be afraid to wear it while mowing the lawn or chasing the dog across the beach.

A word of warning though – refurb sellers can be a bit

hit and miss. One customer got a flawless device in a near-new box, another got a scratched-up unit with no charger. It’s a bit of a lucky dip.

OFF-BRAnD OPTIOnS WORTH A LOOK

If you’re not wedded to the Apple logo, there are even cheaper smartwatches out there:

Amazfit Bip 6 – £68.99 on Amazon. Boasts 14-day battery, offline maps and looks like an Apple Watch from a distance (if you squint).

Garmin Forerunner 55 –£139.99 at Decathlon. Built for runners and cyclists who want proper performance stats, not just step counts and stress alerts.

FInAL THOUgHTS FROM THE PROFESSOR

The big takeaway? The iPhone 17 isn’t revolutionary (spoiler: it’s not), and the Series 11 won’t change your life (also not). But tech from just a few years ago is now going for a fraction of the price – and it still does the job.

So if you’re still wearing a Casio from the 1990s or a Fitbit that looks like a doorbell, now’s the time to upgrade – without rinsing your bank account in the process.

Until next time – keep your screens clean and your passwords longer than “1234”.

Professor Barry Davis is the Herald’s resident gadget guru, proud Amiga owner, and once connected a VHS recorder to Alexa just to prove he could.

Progressing Pride in Pembs: new exhibition at Torch Theatre

PEMBROKESHIRE PRIDE

will launch its first major exhibition, Progressing Pride in Pembrokeshire, at the Joanna Field gallery in the Torch Theatre. The exhibition runs from September 13 to 29, 2025.

The exhibition presents a striking visual journey through the lives, challenges, and hopes of LGBTQ+ people and allies in Pembrokeshire.

At its heart is a creative reimagining of data collected in Pembrokeshire Pride’s community survey, which explored local experiences of healthcare, public services, socioeconomic conditions, politics, and daily life. The anonymised findings have been transformed into bold artistic works that invite visitors to engage both emotionally and critically.

The exhibition also tells the story of Pembrokeshire Pride itself — from its beginnings as a small grassroots

group to its role today as a visible and supportive force for equality and inclusion across the county. Personal testimonies, artwork, and collective memories highlight both the progress achieved and the vision for a more inclusive future.

“This exhibition is about more than data. It’s about people’s lived realities — what it feels like to belong, to struggle, and to push for change in Pembrokeshire,” said Lewis George, EDI Partner at Pembrokeshire Pride.

“We’re proud to share not only the challenges but also the resilience and hope that shine through our community’s voices.”

Progressing Pride in Pembrokeshire is free to attend and open during Box Office hours at the Torch Theatre. For more information visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

gaming

Borderlands 4 feels like the wildest, most anarchic vault-hunting adventure yet, crashing onto the shores of Kairos with the series’ signature chaotic charm dialed up to eleven. Set six years after Lilith’s fateful moon-crashing stunt, this new entry drops you into a beautifully energetic world disrupted by tyranny, where a rebellion simmers under the rule of the villainous Timekeeper. you’ll explore vast, seamless zones—lush fields, jagged peaks and dusty desert planes—without a single loading screen breaking the flow, a leap made possible by modern hardware finally catching up to gearbox’s audacious vision.

Rebooted movement mechanics thrust you into a kinetic dance with gravity: double-jumping, grappling, spot dodges and air dashes let you dart through the world with blistering freedom, riding hover bikes across open terrain and vaulting into combat with fluid grace. Borderlands means absurd weapons, and this entry

doesn’t disappoint: imagine saw-blade assault rifles, overthe-top ordinance launchers that operate on cooldowns, and imaginative gear weapons that redefine what you can unleash on your foes. A crafty new crafting system lets you splice components across manufacturers, while “ordinance” slots introduce fresh ways to deploy grenades and heavy firepower.

Dynamic Events punctuate the campaign with emergent chaos—ambient skirmishes, world-shaking clashes and activity-driven mayhem that scale to your progress and playstyle, each offering loot that’s instanced so every rogue hero earns their own spoils. With improved loot balance and rarities, even the elusive legendary drops feel earned and thrilling.

narratively, Borderlands 4 always keeps the energy up: the irreverent humor spikes with unexpected, situational jokes that spark naturally in the chaos, while cutscenes feel alive—nPCs address your Vault Hunter by name, and your character’s look persists

into cinematic moments. The tone shifts darker around a more ominous antagonist, but balances dread and comedy beautifully. Boss fights get tactical and multiphased, demanding mobility, awareness and clever use of your gear. And the cast of Vault Hunters—each with their own Action Skill and deep branching skill trees— makes each playthrough unique. Harlowe, with her science-based tools like a Flux generator that shares damage and a devastating Chroma Accelerator, stands out as a highlight, while others bring different flavors to the fight.

Rebellion feels communal: 4-player online co-op or 2-player split-screen let friends join the mayhem, with cross-play, level scaling, individual looting and drop-in / drop-out convenience that keeps the chaos cooperative. The endgame offers more than idle grind—emergent world events, fresh activities, and that dynamic layering of loot and challenge ensure your post-campaign time feels purposefully alive.

UK gamers mark the calendar: Borderlands 4 becomes playable at midnight BST on 12 September 2025 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, while PC adventurers can dive in from 17:00 BST the evening before. The Switch 2 version lands later on 3 October 2025. All that’s left now is for you to choose your Vault Hunter, stock up on ammo, and prepare to unleash pandemonium.

HOROSCOPES

ARiES

your extraordinary organization may have hurt their feelings. Maybe you’re bringing a little too much office to the tone of your personal exchanges. Of course, you’re right. Your friends should be happy you’re taking charge of the communications process. But maybe you could add a dash or two of tenderness to that communication.

CAnCER

Have you been thinking about redecorating? Sometimes it’s a good way to externalize some of the changes you’ve been going through internally. Go ahead and think about it, but don’t make any moves. This is a good day for quiet reflection and planning, but not such a good day for big actions. The imagination process, after all, can be one of the most satisfying parts of the entire endeavor. You don’t want to cheat yourself out of it!

LEO Get connected. Forget connected, get super-connected. Or even superduper-connected. Why? Because, if you don’t let people know that you’ve got a bright light, how are they going to know how to help you let it shine?

So get the word out: You are terrific and you want to share. Who knows what great big shiny future could come from all this?

VIRGO

There is almost nobody most folks who know would rather have in charge than you. Whether it’s drawing up the architectural plans for a steel-andglass skyscraper or arranging everything just so for a picnic, you handle projects (and people) with elegance, charm, and ease. You make people feel good and bring out the best in them, and this gets the job done in a big way.

LiBRA

If there’s a big, complicated, even messy, perhaps convoluted and halfway botched project that nobody wants to touch with a ten-foot pole, you’re just the right person to take over. Why? Because you are an intrepid handler of complexity. You are a terrific manager. You are a no-nonsense, never-saynever, super-efficient lover of challenge. Go for it!

SCORPiO Management isn’t just a ten-letter word that you can look up in any English language dictionary (and a handful of foreign language dictionaries as well). No, it’s a key to your success. Yes, if you weren’t the fantastic manager that you are there’s no way you would have achieved the things you have. So have a management party! Order cake and make a toast to yourself!

SAGITTARIUS

Habits are habits because you’re used to doing them. Whether it’s drinking one cup of coffee too many or leaving the house a little too late or coming home cranky and deciding to skip the gym, this is a good time to take some concrete steps for changing at least one (if not more) habit that’s not doing anything helpful in your life. Out, out bad habit!

CAPRiCORn

Something is definitely getting started right now. Is it the very beginning hint of a love affair? Or the rekindling of an existing love that’s been smoldering quietly and is ready now to burst into flames? Is it a life-expanding new friendship that’s getting started? It could be a combination of things. You’ll only know once you find out. So go find out and have fun!

AQUARiUS

Have you been itching for a little real, heart-to-heart, mind-to-mind connection lately? Well, sometimes you have to take things into your own hands. Compatibility doesn’t just fall out of the sky, you know. Now is the time to get out there and look for like-minded souls. Why not plan something like a game night or a pizza lunch and get a little synergy

PiSCES

wiTh eddie The game gUrU

editor tom SincLair

trUmP’S raid bacKfireS

Largest immigration swoop delays U.S jobs and angers key ally South Korea

Donald Trump promised tough action on immigration. What America got last week was the largest workplace raid in its history... and one of the biggest own goals yet.

At the Hyundai–LG battery megasite in Georgia, federal agents swept in and arrested nearly 500 people, most of them South Korean nationals. The images were stark: skilled technicians in handcuffs, lined up in buses, filmed and broadcast for the world to see. Washington called it law enforcement. Seoul called it humiliation.

Here’s the reality. Those Korean workers weren’t here to steal American jobs. They were here to set up the production lines - the complex machinery

that requires the same teams who built it in Korea. Once complete, those lines would have been handed over to local Americans, who would have been hired, trained, and paid to run them long term. By tearing those crews off the job in one swoop, the administration has achieved three things:

1. Delayed thousands of U.S. jobs that were supposed to follow once the plant went live.

2. Shaken a multibillion-dollar investment in American manufacturing.

3. Offended one of America’s closest allies, South Korea, which has now flown hundreds of its people home

ShoULd britian PrePare

4.

on chartered planes.

Hyundai says none of those detained were direct employees, only contractors. But construction has paused, and the timeline for American hiring is slipping. South Korea has lodged formal protests. And all the while, Trump boasts of a “victory.”

This isn’t strength. It’s short-sighted bluster that hurts U.S. workers and

undermines U.S. alliances. America needs those factories. It needs those jobs. And it needs South Korea as a partner in everything from trade to security.

Trump may think he’s made a point about immigration. What he’s really done is make Americans wait longer for paychecks, and make allies wonder whether the U.S. can be trusted. In trying to look tough, he has shown weakness.

itS hoSPitaLS for war?

France has just ordered its hospitals to plan for war within the next year. Officials in Paris want health services ready to treat thousands of wounded soldiers a day if Europe erupts into conflict.

It is not a declaration that war is imminent, but it is a stark signal: the French government believes the risk is serious enough to prepare its medical system now.

So where does that leave Britain?

As a NATO member, Britain would not sit out a European conflict. If French wards are bracing for mass casualties, the NHS could face similar demands. Yet this is a health service already on its knees. COVID-19 exposed how quickly capacity can collapse. Record waiting lists tell their own story. If a war were to strain hospitals even further, the consequences would be brutal.

There are obvious objections. Announcing a “war plan” for the NHS could spread panic. Britain is an island, with the Channel offering some

natural protection. The military has its own medical corps and field hospitals designed to absorb the first wave of wounded. And with ambulances queuing outside A&E today, many would argue we should fix the day-today crisis before diverting attention to hypothetical scenarios.

But pretending the threat does not exist is dangerous. Preparation need not mean panic. Stockpiling vital medicines, creating emergency surge capacity, and linking NHS hospitals more closely with Defence Medical Services would all strengthen resilience — not just against war, but against terror attacks, cyber strikes or another pandemic.

France’s move is a reminder that Europe is no longer living in an era of peace we can take for granted. Britain should learn the lesson. Quiet, sensible planning today could prevent chaos tomorrow. The choice is not between panic and denial, but between foresight and complacency.

BADGER AND THE DARK DARC SKY

BADgER is well-known for his love of the new Age types who distinguish themselves by their humourless whining and wish to return humanity to the age of cave dwelling.

He especially enjoys those on the Flat Earth fringe of hippie-dippydom, who blame the conveniences of modern life for their multitudinous emails. There’s a direct link from the sort of person who thinks someone dialling Dublin from Cardiff using a mobile phone is responsible for their migraines and the deranged Looney Tunes who’ve seized control of the US health and medical system.

On the one hand, you have people (okay, Reform UK “people”) who believe that the Covid vaccine caused King Charles’s cancer and, on the other, those who think that fluorine in water is behind the collapse of civilisation and the impending Great Reckoning. There’s a handy word for that kind of thinking: it’s “crackpot”.

Pembrokeshire attracts its fair

share of tambour-playing headcases. They come here, wafted by middleclass entitlement, the idea of being Lord or Lady Bountiful, and the urge to tell locals how they’re getting the whole rural idyll thing wrong. Badger loves eager incomers whose passiveaggressive reasonableness fails to hide what horrible and entitled dickheads they are.

Daisy Mimsy-Stroppe and her partner Ernest Earnest are constant attendees at Farmers’ Markets, Craft Fayres, and the sort of music evenings that feature advanced keening and bongos. They haven’t lived in Pembrokeshire that long. However, they are ever so grateful to Uncle Alan for croaking and leaving them his smallholding on the St Davids Peninsula. They also know all about the mystical energy that binds people together in a sacred landscape such as Pembrokeshire’s. They read a book about it, once.

Borne aloft on a cloud of good intentions, weed, and fuelled by magic mushrooms and self-righteousness,

Daisy and Ernest are determined to keep Pembrokeshire the rural backwater it is in their stoner dreams. Strange, when you think about it, readers. All those compact, bijou, and above all, middleclass enclaves around little harbours on the Pembrokeshire coast once bustled with industry, whether from brickworks, limestone kilns, quarries, or mines. Ms Mimsy-Stroppe and Mr Earnest want to keep those areas not as they were when locals lived there, but as they are - gentrified, preserved in aspic, and (fell word) quaint.

Once upon a time, the 1970s were the high tide of the arts and farts movement. Artists and artisans flooded into Pembrokeshire to live the dreams of Tom and Barbara Good. As time wore on, respectability, more or less, overtook them. In the 1980s, the slack end of hippiedom chained itself to the fences at RAF Brawdy, demanding that the USSR be allowed to bomb Western Europe into a nuclear desert without fear of reprisal. As time has ticked on, and under the aegis of a Welsh Government as clueless about rural Wales as it is malevolently disposed towards those who live there, incomers have annexed areas of Pembrokeshire, either as part of their holiday cottage industry, or in search of a green ideal.

Our new middle-class rural guardians brim with a desire for peace (unless you’re Jewish), inclusivity (ditto), and a love of imaginary heritage.

Look at the plans to build the UK limb of the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) at the former RAF Brawdy. The Stop the West Coalition, formerly known as the Stop the War Coalition, is involved. It turns out Stop the War opposes only those wars ideologically opposed by apologists for Putin and countless Islamic dictatorships. They’re joined by Extinction Rebellion, a doomsday cult which campaigns for the extinction of the human race by unwinding the last three hundred years or so, and returning us to a pre-industrial economy under the control of Leveller-style fanatics. CND Cymru, determined to ensure we’re all reduced to cinders (but self-righteous cinders) in the event of a nuclear war, make up the merry band who support the campaign against DARC.

Now, Badger doesn’t have much of a view either way on the merits of DARC. However, it occurs to him that

complaining about the militarisation of space is akin to whining that the tide comes in and goes out. It also occurs to him that if it came to aligning himself with Putin-apologists, doom mongers, and the half-witted idealism of CND, he’d rather be on the side with the giant space laser.

Cefin Campbell gave the game away in the Senedd: “We cannot support the construction of DARC and give space to American militarism on our land.” You see, readers, it’s not so much the militarism as the AMERICAN militarism to which campaigners object. More specifically, the spectre of Donald Trump hangs over the project and people’s reception of it.

There are a gazillion and one reasons to dislike Donald Trump; however, DARC is low down on the list (somewhere around a billion umpteenth).

Moreover, DARC in Australia is already built. The only thing that will stop DARC from being built in the UK, and probably at Brawdy, is if the Donald is distracted by a shiny new tariff or head merkin.

Of course, Badger is prepared to accept that the goodwill and fond feelings of Stop the West and their New Age fellow travellers could derail the project. In which case, Badger draws heart from the notion that unneeded and unused military installations might be used to house asylum seekers waiting for their claims to be processed. Badger is sure that the warmth of the welcome afforded to those crossing the Channel on small boats will be unmatched among those whose smallholdings, organic lovespoon manufacturers, and artisanal nettle wine businesses would be so badly affected by the threat of a giant space radar.

And, of course, with Cawdor Barracks due to be shut by 2028 and a large vacant slice of land under MoD control available in the middle of nowhere, the attractions of an alternative to DARC speak for themselves.

The good thing is that, with the road at Newgale likely to sink under the tide, any of the poor sods encamped at Brawdy would have nowhere to go should they escape, apart from Surreynext-the-Sea (Solva). At least there’s a harbour there. They could escape to a less hostile environment. Ramsey, for instance.

Stephen Seagull: netanyahu squawks, peace walks

AWK-AWWK! you ever seen a gull dive-bomb a fisherman’s pasty just as he’s about to take a bite? That’s what yer man netanyahu’s up to in the Middle East – except instead of pastry flakes, it’s peace talks he keeps blowing to smithereens.

This week was a classic. Hamas’s negotiators were sat in Qatar, edging towards a deal that even Donald Trump – yes, the orange squawker himself – was backing. And just as it looked like the tide might turn, in swoops Bibi with an airstrike, scattering the talks like chip wrappers in a gale. “Why does the PM insist on blowing up any deal that comes close?” asked the desperate mother of a hostage still trapped in Gaza. It’s a fair squawk. Out here on Milford Haven Docks, even we gulls can smell that this bloke isn’t after peace – he’s after a forever war, the kind that keeps his far-right pals fat and happy while everyone else goes hungry.

Israel said the strike was payback for a Hamas-claimed shooting in Jerusalem that killed six people. But timing’s a funny old fish. The same day, the Israeli army ordered everyone out of Gaza City ahead of a full-scale invasion. That’s not about justice,

that’s about clearing the decks for yet more carnage. The people of Gaza – starving, grieving, clinging to life –are being treated like so many scraps brushed off the quay.

And what’s the West doing while this goes on? Whispering platitudes into its prawn cocktail. Trump fires off deadlines online like he’s running a jumble sale on Twitter, then shrugs when they’re ignored. He scolds Israel for bombing an ally’s capital, then claps them on the back for “eliminating Hamas”. Red lines? Don’t make me laugh. More like red herrings.

Sir Keir Starmer, meanwhile, flutters around puffing out his chest about “student politics” just before sitting down with Israel’s president, Isaac Herzog. But when Netanyahu is literally trying to assassinate negotiators in Doha, words are about as useful as a seagull’s umbrella. If Britain and Europe were serious, they’d be talking sanctions, trade bans, pulling the economic plug –proper measures with bite, not just a beakful of empty air.

A committee of MPs even said Britain needs to be far bolder, but those words have gone the way of chips left unattended on the quay: snatched up,

gone, forgotten. Europe mutters about symbolism – recognising Palestinian statehood here, a stern word there –but symbols don’t stop tanks. Symbols don’t feed kids. Symbols don’t stop the West Bank being gobbled up piece by piece while everyone looks the other way.

And all the while, Netanyahu acts with impunity, convinced he can redraw the map of the Middle East however he pleases. The more Europe dithers, the stronger his conviction grows. The US could rein him in tomorrow if it chose. But with Trump winking and nodding, there’s no anchor on Israel’s course.

So here we are, watching another round of bombing, another round of broken talks, another round of innocent lives lost – and the gulls on the docks could’ve told you the ending before it started. Until someone with real clout tells Netanyahu to cut it out, peace will stay as out of reach as a pasty in a gull’s beak.

Squawk that over yer dinner, boyo.

Entries now open for the RSPCA’s Walk on the Wild Side challenge

WILDLIFE lovers are being invited to sign up for the RSPCA’s autumn active fundraising event ‘Walk on the Wild Side’.

The event invites participants across England and Wales to complete a walking challenge throughout October.

The fundraising challenge comes at a critical time for the charity as it reveals that last October (2024) was its busiest month for hedgehogs in the last five years*, and also marks the beginning of ‘seal pup season’ - when the RSPCA’s wildlife hospitals also typically see a spike in grey seals admitted as orphans, or struggling to feed and are weak and underweight.

The ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ challenge offers two distance tiers to be completed over the month: 60 miles (96.6km) or an ‘Ultra Wild Challenge’ of 120 miles (193.1km). Participants have the flexibility to choose their own location for the challenge, and a fundraising target of £100 is suggested per participant.

Olivia Williams, Mass Participation Manager at the RSPCA said: “Every hour, a wild animal needs our care, and we know that so many animal lovers want to help. That’s why we’re thrilled to be launching Walk on the Wild Side as a way for people to really make a difference and support our vital work.”

Already this autumn, the RSPCA’s specialist teams have been called to care for hedgehogs. Two tiny hoglets (one pictured top) were taken in by the team at RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Somerset last week, after being found orphaned. They are now receiving round-the-clock care including being hand-fed. Those who sign up to take part will receive a welcome pack upon registration, which includes an RSPCA t-shirt, a miles tracker, and a wildlife spotting sheet. Early registrants will also receive a limited edition dog bandana*. Additionally, participants who successfully raise £100 by October 31st will be awarded an

exclusive ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ medal.

Signing up to take part in the event couldn’t be easier:

• Registration: Complete the online form to receive the challenge welcome pack.

• Community Engagement: Join a dedicated Facebook group for fundraising advice and peer support.

• Preparation: Participants are encouraged to undertake preparatory walks prior to October.

• Challenge Completion: Walk the chosen distance during October while utilizing the provided spotter cards.

• Progress Updates: Share challenge progress within the Facebook group.

• Medal Qualification: Achieve the £100 fundraising target by the challenge end date to receive the commemorative medal.

Olivia added: “We’re excited to see people sign up for the challenge through this month, ready to begin on 1 October, and we can’t thank people enough for joining us in this fantastic event. Every penny raised will directly contribute to the RSPCA’s mission of caring for wildlife across England and Wales, and make a huge difference to animals.”

More information on fundraising for the RSPCA is available on the charity’s website.

new playgroup ‘Happy Haven’ to launch in Pennar for children with additional needs

A nEW playgroup designed especially for children with additional learning needs (ALn) is launching at Pennar Hall this month.

The group, called Happy Haven, has been set up by local mums Hannah Richards, Cara Stewart and Kirsty Calver, who each have young sons with additional needs. The trio first met at Pennar Portfield Preschool and soon realised they shared the same struggles and concerns.

Cara Stewart told The Herald: “We all spoke about how there just weren’t any groups out there for children with ALN. Taking our children to busy places can be really difficult, and we wanted to create a safe, non-judgmental space where our children can play and where parents can meet and have a chat. Being parents

to children with additional needs can sometimes feel isolating and very lonely. We want Happy Haven to be warm and welcoming for families who are in similar situations.”

The playgroup will welcome children aged two to ten with ALN, along with their siblings.

Sessions will run at Pennar Hall, Treowen Road, on Saturday 20th September from 10:00am until 12:00pm. Entry costs £3 per child and includes a snack, while tea, coffee and cake will be available for parents.

The organisers say they would be grateful for any toy donations to help build up resources for the children to enjoy.

Happy Haven hopes to fill a gap in local provision and become a supportive hub for families who often feel overlooked.

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi staff mark new academic year

STAFF at ysgol Penrhyn Dewi have marked the start of the new academic year with a full day of training, collaboration and reflection ahead of pupils returning to the classroom.

Teachers and support staff spent the day working together on school improvement, with an emphasis on adaptive teaching and learning methods designed to improve outcomes for all learners.

As part of the programme, staff received a presentation on safeguarding from Cara Huggins of Pembrokeshire County Council. The session was described by the school as “high quality and insightful,” reinforcing the importance of pupil welfare at the heart of education.

Headteacher David Haynes said the day had been about building “team spirit and focus” as the school prepared to welcome back pupils across its sites in St Davids, Solva and Letterston.

The school community will officially begin the year with a service of celebration and prayers at St Davids Cathedral, described as the school’s “spiritual home where our learning journey began.”

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, established in 2018, is a Church in Wales secondary and all-

through school. Leaders say the cathedral service is now a key tradition in the school calendar,

uniting pupils, parents and staff in faith, reflection and optimism for the year ahead.

nominations sought for outstanding dairy person in Wales

Do you know an exceptional individual who has made a lasting impact on the Welsh dairy industry?

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has teamed up with NatWest Cymru to seek nominations for its esteemed Outstanding Service to the Welsh Dairy Industry Award. This is your chance to shine a spotlight on someone within the dairy sector who has truly gone above and beyond.

This prestigious award celebrates a person who has not only contributed significantly to the development of the Welsh dairy sector but has also become a key part of its community.

The winner will be publicly

announced and honored with the award presentation at the Welsh Dairy Show on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at the United Counties Showground in Nantyci, Carmarthen.

Previous winners of the prestigious award include, Peter Rees of Llandovery, a former college lecturer and leading figurehead within Wales’ landbased and dairy sectors, and Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Chair, Stephen James of Gelliolau farm, Clunderwen, who won the award in 2024.

Opening the nominations process for the FUW/NatWest Cymru Outstanding Service to the Welsh Dairy Industry Award, FUW Carmarthen County

Executive Officer, David Waters said: “This award provides a terrific opportunity to recognise the hard work, dedication, and innovation of individuals who have helped shape the industry for the better. We’re particularly delighted to have teamed up with NatWest Cymru this year, with their support helping us give this award the profile it deserves.

“There are many worthy individuals in Wales who deserve this award, and the nominations we have received in the past have been fantastic. If you know someone who has driven progress, fostered community, and become an integral part of the Welsh dairy landscape, don’t hesitate to

nominate them today for this deserving honour.”

Dai Miles, FUW Deputy President and a former winner of the award in 2021, added: “The dairy industry is a crucial part of Wales’ agricultural fabric, and a significant contributor to the Welsh economy.

“Every day individuals go above and beyond to safeguard and champion the sector. This award therefore serves as a fantastic opportunity to publicly celebrate and honour those unsung heroes who are the very backbone of our industry.”

Commenting, Rhys Williams, Director, Commercial Banking at NatWest Swansea & West Wales said: “NatWest Cymru is delighted and proud to support this highly prestigious award. The agricultural sector is key to NatWest Cymru and is well supported by a dedicated team of locally based Relationship Managers to help our customers and the sector thrive.”

Nominations should be in the form of a letter or citation giving full details of the work and achievements of the nominee and need to be emailed to FUW Carmarthen by e-mail: carmarthen@fuw.org.uk or sent by post to FUW Carmarthen, Suite 10 Second Floor West, Tŷ Myrddin, Old Station Road, Carmarthen, SA31 1LP by Friday October 10 2025.

Legacy of local farmer brings comfort to cancer patients

A substantial legacy donation made in memory of local farmer and builder Hugh Lloyd Francis and his wife Jean Lloyd Francis has transformed the outpatient area of the new Leri cancer unit at Bronglais general Hospital, creating a welcoming and tranquil environment for patients receiving cancer diagnoses and treatment.

The Leri cancer unit opened in May, thanks to kind donations from members of local communities who raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the Bronglais Chemo Appeal.

The generous legacy donation of over £115,000 from Mr and Mrs Lloyd Francis’s estate has enabled the refurbishment of the outpatient areas as part of the wider redevelopment of the cancer unit. Thanks to the donation, the outpatient areas have been finished to an exceptional standard, including the installation of original artwork, decoration of walls and ceilings, new flooring and doors, and new wash hand units in the consulting rooms.

Bronglais Hospital has looked after Mr and Mrs Lloyd Francis, who lived in Llanfarian, for most of their lives. Mr Lloyd Francis, who had overcome cancer, expressed a heartfelt wish in his will that his legacy be used to enhance the experience of others undergoing cancer care.

A further legacy donation was made to Lingen Davies Cancer Support, a charity which makes a positive

difference to lives affected by cancer in Mid Wales, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.

Jane Lloyd Francis, Mr and Mrs Lloyd Francis’s daughter, said: “Both my father and mother were incredibly hardworking throughout their lives. My father was still working at age 90, and work was his mainstay. As well as farming, he built up a successful building business from nothing, and it’s through this lifetime of hard work and foresight that my parents were able to make this donation.

“When my father had cancer and was waiting for his radiotherapy, it changed him. He spent a lot of time in waiting rooms, and he was moved by seeing other people waiting for their treatment, and by their suffering.

“He would be so pleased that his donation is making the experience easier and more comfortable for cancer patients at Leri cancer unit.”

Feedback from patients who have experienced the new outpatient areas has been overwhelmingly positive. One patient shared: “It’s absolutely fantastic, the warm and relaxing feel from the colours and the space, it now feels like a ‘together’ place.”

Gina Beard, Lead Cancer Nurse at the health board, said: “We are extremely grateful for this generous legacy from Mr and Mrs Lloyd Francis which will benefit so many people affected by a cancer diagnosis from our local communities.

“Thanks to this kind gift, the

outpatient space now mirrors the high standard of the newly constructed treatment area, offering a consistent

and calming environment for patients, families, and staff.”

nFU Cymru/Wynnstay Sustainable Farming Conference: Stability crucial to farmers’ environmental delivery

‘FUTURE funding and stability is paramount to supporting Welsh farmers in continuing to deliver for the environment, climate, economy and people of Wales’. That was the key message from nFU Cymru President Aled Jones when opening nFU Cymru/Wynnstay Sustainable Farming Conference on September 3. The Condference celebrates Welsh farmers’ role as custodians of the environment alongside their duty as food producers.

The event gathered industry and external speakers from across the UK to discuss Welsh agriculture’s sustainability credentials and opportunities to enhance those qualities further.

The fifth annual NFU Cymru/ Wynnstay Sustainable Farming Conference was hosted at Ffrith Farm, Treuddyn, Mold by kind permission of Clive, Gail and Ed Swan. The farm supplies beef, pork, eggs and fruit to the family’s successful on-site farm shop – whose mantra is ‘food metres, not miles’ – selling produce direct to consumers. Attendees at the event were able to sample some of the farm’s pork and apples as part of the event’s lunch offering.

NFU Cymru President Aled Jones opened the event by acknowledging the fantastic enterprise operated by the Swan family and how they, like farmers across Wales, are carrying out a wide array of work to improve habitats, support the environment and tackle the effects of climate change.

During his opening speech, Mr Jones stressed the importance of the next Welsh Government providing adequate funding and stability to ensure farmers can continue delivering for the environment, climate, economy and people of Wales. It comes amid concerns raised by NFU Cymru over the way that funding via the incoming Welsh Government Sustainable Farming Scheme, which begins in January 2026, will be distributed in the future.

Mr Jones said: “We have welcomed the £238m budget allocation to the universal layer of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), which is the equivalent of the current Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) budget and 70% of the total SFS budget, with the remainder earmarked for the Optional and Collaborative layers. However, I was concerned to hear the Deputy First Minister say that he was committed to shifting the balance of the budget to the optional and collaborative scheme actions in subsequent years. The Minister in this same statement talked of this SFS framework providing stability.

“I want to be abundantly clear - it is the universal layer, and the social value payment within that, which delivers stability and underpins the multiple benefits that Welsh farming provides. Without this stability, our ability to deliver for the economy, the environment, climate, our communities and our people will be harmed.”

The conference audience also heard a detailed discussion on advances in agricultural and rural research, which featured

This week marks Rural Crime Action Week, drawing attention to crime in our rural communities, with farmers often bearing the brunt of the issue.

contributions from Professor

Dr Alastair Leake, GWCT Director; and Professor Janet Dwyer of the University of Gloucester.

This was followed by an insightful session exploring perspectives on sustainable farming from within the food supply chain. Panellists for this session were Steve McLean, Head of Agriculture and Fisheries at M&S; Dr Julie Finch, Kepak; and Ben Williams, Sustainability Manager at Leprino.

Welsh Conservatives Shadow Minister for Economy, Energy & Rural Affairs, Sam Kurtz MS, was next to address the audience. During his speech he further examined the notion of sustainability, as well as outlining the Welsh Conservatives’ five commitments affecting rural affairs ahead of next year’s Senedd elections.

The final session of the day saw grassroots farmers from across Wales sharing their inspiring sustainability stories with the audience. Those participating in the panel were current NFU

Cymru/NFU Mutual Livestock Champion Mathew Roberts; host farmer and NFU Cymru/Wynnstay Sustainable Agriculture Award winner Ed Swan; NFU Cymru Clwyd County Chairman David Williams; and former NFU Cymru Next Generation Group member Jessica Williams.

Following lunch, conference attendees enjoyed a tour of Ffirth Farm conducted by host farmers Clive and Ed Swan.

As criminals adopt more sophisticated tactics, the threats to rural communities grow in complexity, leaving farmers vulnerable to a range of crimes. These include theft of livestock and machinery, vandalism and trespassing, all of which erode the sense of security that has traditionally defined rural life.

One of the most alarming trends is the rise in machinery theft. High-value equipment, such as tractors and quad bikes, are being increasingly targeted, with stolen goods often entering illegal markets. The extent of the problem was documented last year with Dyfed-Powys Police receiving over sixty reports of stolen quad bikes across the force in 2024.

As we have seen in communities across Wales over recent months, livestock theft is another major concern. With fluctuating market prices, the lure of a quick profit from sheep and cattle - often kept in remote locations - can become more tempting for thieves. The loss of livestock can be devastating to a farmer, not just financially but emotionally, as it often involves the loss of years of breeding and investment.

While rural crime remains a persistent problem, farmers can take several proactive steps to protect their property and livestock.

One effective measure is increasing security on farm premises. Installing CCTV cameras at key locations can act as a deterrent. Regularly checking gates and fences, securing them with locks, and displaying visible security signs can further discourage criminals. Similarly, vehicles should be kept in safe locations, with keys removed from the ignition.

Another way farmers can protect their assets is by embracing smart technology. GPS trackers on valuable machinery and equipment can often help recover stolen items quickly. Meanwhile, invisible forensic property marking systems which can be detected under UV light, can be applied to tools, vehicles and machinery. This can provide a link between stolen property and its rightful owner and acts as a deterrent against theft and a crucial tool in recovering stolen items.

Building strong relationships with local police forces is also crucial in tackling rural crime. Farmers should ensure they report any crime or suspicious activity promptly and engage with the police to monitor crime trends in their area.

Rural crime is often underreported, resulting in inadequate allocation of police resources and misconceptions as to the scale of the issues. If you need assistance reporting a crime please contact your local FUW county office for support. Through increased collaboration and vigilance, Welsh farmers can work together to safeguard our rural communities.

Iain Donnison, Head of IBERS;

Supermarket regulation ‘unfit for purpose’, warns west Wales MP

MP backs calls for single watchdog to curb unfair supermarket practices and protect farmers’ livelihoods

A WEST WALES MP has warned that supermarkets are “undermining” British farmers as calls grow for a single regulator to oversee the UK’s food supply chain.

Ann Davies, MP for Caefyrddin, said farmers were under “pressure from every direction” and highlighted the imbalance of power between major retailers and producers.

Her comments came during a meeting at the House of Commons on Tuesday (Sept 2), where MPs, peers and farming campaigners discussed what they described as a “broken food chain” and a regulatory system that is “not fit for purpose”.

Campaigners are calling for the creation of one central watchdog to replace the current dual system. At present, the Groceries Code Adjudicator sits within the Department for Business and Trade, while the Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator reports to Defra. Critics say this split leaves farmers without adequate protection against late payments, last-minute order cancellations and “rock-bottom” prices.

Ann Davies said: “Farmers are facing pressure from every direction – from shifting government policies to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. But one of the most damaging forces is the imbalance of power between supermarkets and farmers, which threatens the very foundation of the work farmers do to feed the nation.

“While farmers battle challenges on multiple fronts, supermarkets could –and should – provide financial security. In 2023–24, many upland Welsh farmers saw their incomes fall to just £15,900. That’s not sustainable. We must support our farmers, not undermine them. It’s time to hold supermarkets to account.”

The debate followed pressure from Riverford Organic Farmers’ #GetFairAboutFarming campaign, which gathered more than 113,000 signatures in 2023. Research commissioned by the company found that 67 per cent of farmers feared being delisted if they spoke out about

unfair practices, while three-quarters said supermarket behaviour was their biggest concern.

Nearly 30 MPs have now backed an Early Day Motion calling for a merger of the watchdogs and stronger enforcement powers.

Riverford founder Guy SinghWatson said supermarkets had been “left unchecked for too long,” accusing retailers of acting like “economic tyrants.”

The campaign is supported by Sustain, the Soil Association and a number of public figures including Deborah Meaden,

Ann Davies MP

Supermarkets face criticism over their treatment of suppliers

Riverford founder Guy Singh-Watson has led the Get Fair About Farming campaign

FUW calls on new ministers to prioritise Welsh farming

THE FARMERS’ UnIOn OF WALES has urged the UK government to focus on the challenges facing Welsh agriculture following a reshuffle of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s ministerial team.

Emma Reynolds MP, the former Economic Secretary to the Treasury, has been appointed Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Angela Eagle MP, previously a minister at the Home Office, has become Minister of State.

FUW President Ian Rickman has written to both ministers congratulating them on their appointments and calling for an early meeting to ensure the concerns of Welsh farmers are heard.

He said: “Welsh farmers are currently grappling with a ‘perfect storm’ of changes and challenges, and it is crucial that UK Government policies fully recognise the importance

of food security, rural economies, and the unique characteristics of Welsh agriculture.

“While agriculture is a devolved matter, several key issues such as trade negotiations, funding frameworks, and the damaging changes to agricultural property relief remain reserved to the UK Government. It is therefore vital that Welsh farming interests are represented in UK-wide policy discussions since these decisions directly impact the sustainability and competitiveness of our industry.”

The FUW has also written to Cardiff North MP Anna McMorrin, newly appointed as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Wales Office.

Mr Rickman added: “We look forward to working with Anna McMorrin to ensure the needs of Welsh family farms and rural communities are central to UK Government policy.

“We would also like to take this

opportunity to thank Dame Nia Griffith for her constructive cooperation during her tenure. As Anna begins her work, we urge her to recognise

the critical and unique role that rural Wales and farming play in our economy, environment and culture.”

FUW launches roadshow to guide farmers through new Sustainable Farming Scheme

THE FARMERS’ UnIOn OF WALES will host eleven roadshow events across Wales this autumn to help farmers and land managers prepare for the introduction of the new Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).

The SFS, which comes into effect on 1 January 2026, represents the biggest shift in agricultural policy in Wales for generations. To ensure farmers are ready for the changes, the FUW has organised a series of events to provide practical advice, clear guidance, and the opportunity to ask questions directly to its policy team and local county officers.

PRACTICAL gUIDAnCE On THE SCHEME

The roadshows will explain the new payment structure, outline eligibility requirements, and detail how the historic Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) will be tapered. Attendees will also be able to explore what the changes mean for their businesses and learn about the FUW’s tailored support services.

FUW President Ian Rickman said: “The Sustainable Farming Scheme represents a monumental shift for our industry, and it’s understandable that many farmers will have questions about the future. This roadshow will provide an opportunity to understand the options available, whether farmers choose to enter the SFS or remain on a tapering BPS.”

SUPPORT BUILT On 70 yEARS OF EXPERIEnCE

FUW Group Chief Executive Guto Bebb highlighted the Union’s longstanding track record of supporting Welsh

farmers: “As we mark our 70th anniversary, we remain committed to offering handson support through our local offices and expert staff. From navigating new rules to completing paperwork, we are uniquely placed to help farming businesses through this transition.”

FUW Head of Policy Gareth Parry added that the Union had already secured important concessions during negotiations with the Welsh Government. “Over the past year alone, FUW staff have attended more than 60 meetings, totalling over 300 hours of negotiations. This has led to key wins for Welsh farmers, including a reduction in the number of Universal Actions, exemptions for tenants, and the removal of the unworkable 10% tree cover rule,” he said.

EVEnT DATES AnD VEnUES

The roadshow begins later this month and will travel the length and breadth of Wales. Farmers will have the chance to speak directly with FUW staff, meet local branch officials, and network with others in their area.

• Brecon and Radnorshire –FUW Pavilion, Builth Wells, 23/09/2025, 7:00pm

• Montgomeryshire – Elephant & Castle, newtown, 24/09/2025, 7:30pm

• Anglesey – yFC Centre, Anglesey Showground, 25/09/2025, 7:30pm

• Meirionnydd – Dolgellau Rugby Club, 30/09/2025, 7:30pm

• Pembrokeshire – Clarbeston Road Memorial Hall, SA63 4AA, 01/10/2025, 11:00am

• Carmarthenshire –Carmarthenshire Market, 01/10/2025, 7:30pm

• Denbigh & Flint – Ruthin Farmers Auction, 06/10/2025, 7:30pm

• Ceredigion – Aberaeron Rugby Club, 07/10/2025, 7:30pm

• Caernarfon – glynllifon, 08/10/2025, 7:30pm

• gwent – Raglan Market, 09/10/2025, 7:30pm

• glamorgan – Pencoed Rugby Club, 16/10/2025, 7:30pm

TBYD DOLPHin SURF scores maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating

ByD’s DOLPHIn SURF has earned a maximum fivestar safety rating in the latest round of tests by independent organisation Euro nCAP. The reigning World Urban Car of the year, which went on sale across Europe in the spring, picks up the top rating with strong scores in all of the four key areas, making it even more of a standout offering in the compact-EV class.

The DOLPHIN SURF’s performance in Europe’s most stringent evaluation shows how the company’s comprehensive all-round approach to technology means customers of even BYD’s most accessible model in Europe do not need to make compromises on safety. Euro NCAP’s own definition of the five-star score is “overall excellent performance in crash

protection and well equipped with state-of-the-art crash avoidance technology”.

The official test report notes good protection in the side-barrier test and more severe side pole impact, with the DOLPHIN SURF awarded maximum points in this part of the assessment and a five-star 82% verdict for Adult Occupant protection overall. Child Occupant protection receives an even stronger endorsement, meanwhile, with a score of 86%.

In the other two areas of the test, focusing on other road users and safety-assistance systems, the DOLPHIN SURF’s autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system performs well in reactions to cyclists, and has a good response to motorcyclists – helping the car

to a 76% score in the Vulnerable Road Users section. And in the final area of the test, Safety Assist, Euro NCAP awards a 77% score, notes how the AEB is good in reaction to other vehicles, and credits both the driver-monitoring technologies and the lane-departure support system.

The overall five-star result is a standout score in the compact-EV class, leaving the DOLPHIN SURF unmatched by any of its obvious rivals.

Executive Vice President of BYD Stella Li said: “BYD is a technology company and the 120,000 engineers in our R&D division are constantly pushing to innovate and deliver better products for customers. The DOLPHIN SURF has already shown how this commitment delivers an accessible EV with

no compromise on technology or features. It’s particularly challenging to achieve a fivestar Euro NCAP score on a more compact vehicle, but this test result shows that with DOLPHIN SURF, there is also no compromise on safety. The DOLPHIN SURF will continue to be a game changer that breaks down barriers to newenergy vehicle adoption.”

The DOLPHIN SURF’s fivestar verdict is the eighth such rating earned by BYD since the brand’s arrival in the European passenger-car market in 2022. The DOLPHIN, ATTO 3, SEAL, SEAL U and SEAL U DM-i, TANG and SEALION 7 have also all earned five-star scores, with the last of those vehicles matching the highest ever score for Child Occupant protection.

1.2

World premiere at the IAA: Volkswagen ID. CROSS Concept

VOLKSWAgEn, the largest supplier of electric cars in germany and Europe in 2025, will be presenting an electric compact SUV at IAA MOBILITy in Munich (8-14 September): the ID. CROSS Concept1. It is just as suitable for the city as it is for long journeys. Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Head of the Brand group Core and member of the group Board of Management: “From the very beginning, my goal was to shape the best version of the Volkswagen brand of all time. The near-production concept car of the future ID. CROSS1 demonstrates that we are now truly delivering – with a new design, many technologies only seen in higher classes previously, improved operability and quality – and, at last, again the ‘right’ name. With this new Volkswagen generation, we are now delivering on our promises.”

Entry-level campaign – four new electric models. Following the ID.2 all2, the ID. GTI Concept2 (based on the ID.2 all) and the ID. EVERY12, the ID. CROSS Concept is the fourth small electric concept car. The production versions of these new Volkswagen models will be on the market from 2026. The world premiere of the new ID. Polo1 (production version of the ID.2 all) – is set for the first half of 2026. The ID. Polo GTI1 will be presented soon afterwards. Both models will be on show at IAA MOBILITY, still slightly camouflaged. Two legendary Volkswagen designations – Polo and GTI – will thus enter the world of electric mobility. The final ID. CROSS will have its world premiere in the summer of 2026. The production version of the ID. EVERY1, which will be in Munich, though still in concept car form, will be a highlight of 2027.

All four new ID. models are part of a cross-brand product campaign of the Brand Group Core (SEAT and CUPRA, ŠKODA, Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles), as part of which the Group brands will launch new models in the entrylevel segment of electric mobility. The Brand Group Core makes targeted use of synergies and economies of scale in order to be able to offer particularly attractive electric cars in Europe, both technically and in terms of price.

Pure and positive – iconic and likeable. The ID. CROSS Concept, in Urban Jungle green, reflects a new, clear and likeable design language.

Volkswagen Head of Design Andreas Mindt explains: “We call our new design language ‘Pure Positive’. It is based on our three design cornerstones of stability, likeability and secret sauce; it will characterise every new Volkswagen in the future. We rely on a pure and powerful clarity, along with visual stability and a positive, likeable vehicle personality. The lines and powerful surfaces on the ID. CROSS Concept are pure and clear. They shape an SUV that is a trend setter, not a trend follower, and one that transfers the brand’s identity into the future.”

The ID. CROSS Concept’s positive personality is immediately recognisable in areas such as the front and rear. With their graphics and 3D light signature, they give the impression that the car is ‘smiling’.

Andreas Mindt adds: “A Volkswagen must be likeable, unmistakable and inspire with its character. That’s why we deliberately evoke Volkswagen icons such as the Golf and the VW bus in the ID. CROSS Concept – on top, as a dash of ‘secret sauce’. This can be seen, for example, in the charismatic C-pillars and the completely straight

maximum comfort. Plant motifs on the screens and real plants in the visually floating centre console enhance the feel-good effect. A further highlight is the specially designed seats in the concept car, which can be folded down completely to create a reclining area in the style of a VW Bus.

Everything in sight and under control. The innovative cockpit landscape, with its well thought-out ergonomics and intuitive operation, ensures focused attention while on the road. In the ID. CROSS Concept, Volkswagen has created a harmonious interaction between displays with intuitive menu structures, natural voice control and buttons for direct functions. The multi-function steering wheel with clear button control has been completely redesigned. The two central displays of the ID. CROSS Concept are arranged on a visual axis: the digital instruments (28 cm/11 inches) and the central touch display of the infotainment system (diameter: 33 cm/13 inches).

window line. Few volume brands in the world can draw on such a strong heritage. And that will always be in in our toolkit on our journey into the future.”

Compact – fits into any parking space. The SUV concept car on show at the IAA MOBILITIY is 4,161 mm long with a 2,601 mm wheelbase. The ID. CROSS Concept is 1,839 mm wide and 1,588 mm tall. This means that its size is similar to that of the current T-Cross. This does not, however, apply to the wheel/tyre combination on the concept car: the designers have developed a 21-inch alloy wheel specifically for the ID. CROSS Concept called Balboa. In cooperation with Goodyear, special 235/40 R21 tyres were designed for the show car, which continue the design of the rim in the tyre sidewall.

Big space – small dimensions. An innovative package makes the interior of the five-seater ID. CROSS Concept very spacious, with an above-average boot volume of 450 litres. An additional compartment (25 litres) under the bonnet provides additional space. The unusual width of the vehicle and the airy design of the interior create a greater sense of space. On the one hand, the ID. CROSS Concept is perfectly tailored for urban use due to its compact exterior dimensions. At the same time, the compact SUV is an all-rounder suitable for families and friends, which also handles longer journeys with ease.

Interior oasis with a lounge-style ambience. The interior of the ID. CROSS Concept is designed as a feel-good oasis. It impresses with its outstanding material quality and feel, including fabric-covered surfaces. Preconfigured light, sound and climate modes (Atmospheres) transform the Vanilla Chai (a warm shade of beige) interior into a lounge that offers

MEB+ – the next electric evolutionary stage. Technically, the front-wheel drive ID. CROSS Concept is based on the MEB modular electric drive matrix, which will be continuously further developed in the future with improvements to the MEB+, among other things, in terms of engines, batteries and software. Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, says: “The MEB is getting a new software generation from next year, which brings with it a noticeable functional enhancement of many systems for our customers. This further development of the Volkswagen-typical modular system brings functions to vehicles from higher vehicle segments, such as the further developed Travel Assist. The MEB+ is thus the technical key to being able to offer electric vehicles such as the production version of the ID. CROSS Concept and the new ID. Polo with above-average product characteristics at attractive prices.”

New drive system – made in Europe. The ID. CROSS Concept features a newly developed, state-of-the-art drive system. Two central modules are the electric drive motor, including power electronics integrated in the front axle system, and the high-voltage battery arranged flat in the sandwich floor. The electric drive motor in the concept car develops an output of 155 kW (211 PS) and powers the front wheels. The WLTP range forecast for the new ID. CROSS Concept is up to 420 kilometres (260 miles). Two other values are important for e-bike riders and fans of compact lifestyle camper vans: the ball coupling is designed for a drawbar load of 75 kg – enough to transport two e-bikes. The maximum trailer weight is up to 1,200 kg (braked, eight per cent gradient).

The start of a new era. The new BMW iX3

BMW proudly presents the first series-produced Neue Klasse model, the all-new BMW iX3. The next-generation Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) pioneers a new era of sheer driving pleasure, introducing an all-new design language and a broad spectrum of technological advancements, which collectively give the impression that an entire vehicle generation has been skipped.

The launch of the new BMW iX3 represents a significant milestone in the BMW Group’s transformation towards improved electrification, digitalisation and circularity. Spearheading the arrival of the Neue Klasse, the BMW iX3 ushers in new innovations in design and technology which will shape the entire future BMW product portfolio. The technologies of the Neue Klasse will be incorporated into a total of 40 new models and model updates between now and 2027.

“The Neue Klasse is our biggest future-focused project and marks a huge leap forward in terms of technologies, driving experience and design,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “Practically everything about it is new, yet it is also more BMW than ever. Our whole product range will benefit from the innovations brought by the Neue Klasse – whichever drive system technology is employed. What started as a bold vision has now become reality: the BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to go into series

high-performance computers, which cover driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment, and basic comfort functions such as vehicle access, climate control and seat adjustment.

The “Heart of Joy” superbrain elevates the entire driving experience, providing unparalleled handling, dynamism and precision. Responsible for the drive system, brakes, charging, energy recuperation and steering subfunctions, the Heart of Joy teams with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack – developed completely in-house – to compute all driving functions up to 10 times faster than conventional control units. The Heart of Joy significantly improves efficiency, enabling 98 per cent of braking manoeuvres in the BMW iX3 to be performed solely by energy recuperation. The “superbrain of automated driving” brings together all automated driving and parking functions, optimises symbiotic human-vehicle interaction and offers 20 times more processing power than traditional units.

entire future BMW model line-up. This new approach leverages technological advancements to enable bold design changes, while retaining hallmark BMW styling features. Reduced to the essentials, the exterior design has a strong contemporary appearance, defined by precise lines, expansive glass surfaces and an upright front end where the iconic BMW kidney grille and twin headlights take centre stage.

Inside, the cabin puts the driver at the heart of a clean, minimalist layout built around the new Panoramic iDrive. The wrap-around cockpit design flows into the door panels, while passengers benefit from noticeably increased rear legroom compared with the predecessor. The standard interior features Econeer seat fabrics made from recycled materials in a light Vivid Grey finish, with other sustainable surfaces reinforcing the leather-free approach.

production. We are not only bringing the next generation of one of our most successful fully electric vehicles onto the road, we are launching a new era for BMW.”

Designed specifically for the Neue Klasse, the new BMW iX3 premieres BMW Group’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, which comprises highly efficient electric motors, new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800volt technology to set new benchmarks in efficiency and long-distance capability. The result is a single-charge range of up to 500 miles (WLTP1), making the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive (electric power consumption, combined: 17.9 – 15.1 kWh/62 miles; CO2 class: A; range: 421 – 500 miles; provisional figures as per WLTP) the longest-range battery electric vehicle (BEV) on sale on the UK market today as measured under the WLTP test cycle. Meanwhile, a maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables drivers to add up to 231 miles of range to their BMW iX3 in just ten minutes at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station, representing a 30 per cent increase in charging speed compared with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. With the sixth generation, energy losses are reduced by 40 per cent, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.

A new digital nervous system, developed from scratch for all BMW Group drive system variants and model segments, makes its debut in the new BMW iX3. At its core are four “superbrain”

Inside the cabin, the revolutionary BMW Panoramic iDrive, powered by BMW Operating System X, redefines the digital user experience and sets new standards for intuitive, driver-focussed interaction – emphasising BMW’s “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” principle. The system consists of four key components: the BMW Panoramic Vision display, which spans the entire windscreen; the optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, featuring integrated navigation and automated driving information with spatial depth; the driveroriented newly designed Central Display; and the new multi-function steering wheel, which serves as the primary physical control point.

Alongside these significant technological advances, the BMW iX3 introduces a completely new design language, which will be adopted by the

With the launch of the Neue Klasse, the BMW Group has intensified its efforts to increase circularity and reduce CO2 emissions. A holistic approach to minimising the product carbon footprint (CO2e) spans the entire vehicle life cycle, from a circularityorientated product development phase and a supply chain optimised by the systematic use of renewable energy and secondary materials, through to production, the use phase of the vehicle and its subsequent recycling. Guided by a ‘secondary first’ principle, which prioritises recycled over newly extracted raw materials where possible, around a third of the BMW iX3 is made from secondary sources, including marine plastics, secondary aluminium and PET textiles. As a result, the product carbon footprint of the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive over its life cycle is reduced by more than 30 per cent compared with its predecessor.

Anna Ryder Richardson says she is ‘thriving’ after winning zoo battle

TV presenter Anna Ryder Richardson has said she is finally “thriving” after winning full control of her wildlife park in Pembrokeshire, ending a long and bitter legal battle with her former husband.

The 61-year-old designer and broadcaster, who runs Manor House Wildlife Park near Tenby, told The Herald that she now feels “free” and “excited about the future” as she embraces life surrounded by her extraordinary animal neighbours – including Sumatran tigers, rhinos, zebra, gibbons and monkeys.

“I feel so privileged,” she said.

“I’m walking around the park with tiger cubs, baby monkeys above my head… I’m the captain of my ship. I’m one of the luckiest women alive.”

yEARS OF STRUggLE

Anna bought the zoo in 2008 for £1 million, describing it at the time as the opportunity of a lifetime. But following the breakdown of her marriage in 2017, she became embroiled in a protracted legal wrangle over ownership of the park.

Now, after finally being granted sole control, she says

the relief has been immense. “I will never let anyone make me feel small again,” she said.

LOOKIng AHEAD

The mother-of-two is determined to turn the page

and focus on the future with her animals – and her family. She has not ruled out finding love again but says her immediate priorities are clear.

“What an exciting future I’ve got,” she said. “I’m going to enjoy my girls, enjoy my animals – and

enjoy life.”

The park, known locally as ‘Wales’s wildest zoo,’ has welcomed new arrivals in recent months including playful tiger cubs, adding to its reputation as a popular attraction for visitors to Pembrokeshire.

Really Wild Emporium reopens after laundry room fire in St Davids

ST DAVIDS’ award-winning Really Wild Emporium is back open just days after a fire forced it to close part of the building.

Fire crews were called to the High Street venue on Monday evening (Sept 1) after smoke was spotted coming from the property. The blaze was traced to a tumble dryer in a first-floor laundry room. Crews used hose reel jets, breathing apparatus and thermal imaging cameras to contain the flames and prevent further damage.

Owner Julia Mansfield said the “incredibly quick” response of firefighters prevented the blaze from spreading beyond one small area.

“A huge thank you, diolch yn fawr, to our local emergency services who were incredible,” she said. “We are devastated, but it could have been far worse. Most importantly, no one was hurt.”

The business – which combines a café, skincare shop

and Airbnb rooms – was closed for cleaning on Tuesday but staff and friends rallied round. By Thursday (Sept 4) the café was serving coffee and cakes again and the shop reopened upstairs.

In a light-hearted social media post, the team admitted they had been “busy buzzy bees frantically cleaning up in a foul-smelling emporium” before welcoming customers back. They also joked that being “ready to light up your day” might be a “poor choice of words” after the fire.

Julia said the messages of support from locals and visitors had lifted everyone’s spirits.

“It really has been the most incredible display of community, both within St Davids and further afield,” she said.

The café will run from 10:00am to 3:00pm until Sunday, while the shop will remain open daily until 3:30pm while redecorating takes place.

Fire officers said closed doors inside the property helped slow the spread of smoke and flames.

Pembrokeshire bakers win hearts in Tokyo with traditional Welsh cakes

A LITTLE taste of Wales has gone down a storm in Japan this week, as Mamgu Welshcakes of Solva made their debut at one of Tokyo’s most prestigious department stores.

The family-run business is taking part in the annual British Fair at Mitsukoshi Nihombashi, an event which draws thousands of visitors eager to sample food, drink and craft from across the UK.

MamGu reported that the opening days were busier than expected, with long queues forming as word spread about the cakes. Day three was reserved for VIP guests, but when doors opened to the public on day four, demand was constant throughout the day.

Speaking from Tokyo, the team said: “Hard work? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. Seeing Japan fall in love with Welsh cakes has been an unforgettable experience already.”

The stall will remain open for the rest of the week as part of the fair, which is regarded as a major showcase for British brands in Asia.

The company, founded in Pembrokeshire in 2016, has built a reputation for putting a modern twist on the traditional Welsh cake while keeping close ties to its roots in Solva. Their journey to Japan marks the business’s first major foray into the Asian market.

MamGu now hopes the warm reception in Tokyo will pave the way for further international opportunities, while flying the flag for Wales abroad.

Milford Haven fishing fleet faces mixed fortunes as UK lands £1bn catch

MILFORD HAVEN’S fishermen are facing a tougher outlook than the national headlines suggest, despite a new report showing the UK fleet netted more than £1 billion for the third year in a row.

The Seafish Economics of the UK Fishing Fleet 2024 report revealed that overall UK fishing income reached £1.15bn last year, with operating profit rising 26 per cent. Scotland and England both reported strong growth, driven by higher landings of pelagic species such as mackerel.

But for Wales, where 90 per cent of the fleet are small under-10 metre boats, the picture is bleaker. Seafish figures show that although active days at sea increased by a third, profits fell by nearly 10 per cent.

Milford Haven’s fishing community reflects this struggle. The port has become a major hub for whelk fishing, with most of the catch exported to Asia — especially South Korea, where whelk (golbaengi) is a popular bar snack served with noodles and spicy sauce. Prices there can reach almost

£10,000 per tonne for processed meat, but local skippers often see far less of that value due to volatile buyer demand and export costs.

At the quayside, the contrast is stark. While UK pelagic fleets are booming, Milford’s shellfish boats are working harder for slimmer returns. Much of the town’s economic activity comes from whelk landings and the processing jobs they support at Milford Fish Docks.

The port also continues to attract overseas vessels, including Belgian and Dutch boats landing fish for continental markets such as Zeebrugge. This international throughput helps sustain the market and processing facilities, but local incomes remain tied to shellfish exports.

The situation highlights a wider question for Pembrokeshire’s fishing industry: whether greater emphasis on value-added processing and branding could help stabilise incomes. One example comes from Gower, where family firm Selwyn’s Cockles has successfully turned a traditional

fishery into a nationally recognised retail brand, selling tubs of cockles and laverbread in supermarkets.

By contrast, Pembrokeshire’s whelk — though central to the Welsh fleet’s survival — remains largely invisible to UK consumers, shipped overseas with little recognition of its local origin.

The Seafish report underlines the importance of such discussions, with 37 per cent of respondents across all

fleet segments rating their economic performance in the last 12 months as poor or below average. Just a quarter reported excellent or above average performance.

For Milford Haven, the figures mean that while the docks remain busy, many skippers and crews are still waiting to see the benefits of the UK’s billion-pound catch.

Almost 4,000 people respond to Hywel Dda health consultation

ALMOST 4,000 people have taken part in a major consultation on the future of health services in West Wales, which has now closed.

The Hywel Dda University Health Board launched the public consultation on its Clinical Services Plan at the end of May. It ran for thirteen-and-a-half weeks and closed on August 31.

The plan asked residents for their views on how nine key services should be delivered in the future, both in hospitals and in the community. These included critical care, dermatology, emergency general surgery, endoscopy, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, radiology, stroke, and urology.

ALMOST

4,000 RESPOnSES

According to the health board, almost 4,000 responses were submitted by residents across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and neighbouring

areas.

Mark Henwood, medical director at Hywel Dda, said: “We are grateful to everyone who has given us their time and responses. We will now need to review this wealth of feedback received. It is likely, given the volume of responses and particularly the number of alternative options, that it may not be possible for the board to make any final decisions in November.”

An updated position on the timing of decisions will be provided at the board’s September meeting.

HUnDREDS OF ALTERnATIVE IDEAS

During the consultation, the board held drop-in sessions, online meetings, and community discussions across West Wales. Extra events were arranged in response to public demand, including a final online Q&A session on August 27.

More than 100 alternative ideas and proposals were submitted by individuals, community groups and organisations. Feedback is now being reviewed by independent social research company Opinion Research Services (ORS).

The health board said the findings will be considered

alongside evidence, data, and impact assessments before final decisions are made.

Further information is available on the board’s consultation webpages at hduhb.nhs.wales/ clinical-services-consultation. Residents are also encouraged to join the involvement scheme, Siarad Iechyd / Talking Health,

n early 40,000 patients die waiting for n HS treatment in Wales

nEARLy 40,000 patients have died while on nHS waiting lists in Wales since the 2021 Senedd election, Welsh Conservatives have revealed.

Figures uncovered through Freedom of Information requests to all seven health boards show that from May 2021 up to at least June 2025, 38,374 people died

while waiting for treatment. In some cases, the data runs as far as August this year.

The Welsh Conservatives say the figures underline the human cost of Wales’ ongoing NHS crisis, with the country continuing to record some of the worst waiting times in the UK.

MISSED PROMISES

Unlike England, Wales still has thousands of patients waiting more than two years for treatment.

Latest data shows NHS Wales has 7,447 two-year waits, compared with just 182 in England.

By comparison, NHS Scotland has made progress in reducing its longest waits, while Northern Ireland continues to face serious backlogs but does not record the same level of two-year delays seen in Wales.

The current First Minister, Eluned Morgan, previously set deadlines to eliminate two-year waits by March 2023 and again by March 2024, but both targets were missed.

POLITICAL REACTIOn

James Evans MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said the findings were “a damning reflection of Welsh Labour’s failure to get to grips with our NHS.”

Mr Evans told The Herald:

“While it is true that some of these individuals would sadly have passed away from natural causes regardless, the fact remains that

tens of thousands of patients died while still waiting for treatment in Labour-run Wales.

“The Welsh Labour Government, propped up by Plaid Cymru, has been consistently distracted with extreme, ideological vanity projects, like their default 20mph speed limit and creating more politicians, meanwhile they have ignored our NHS.

“Wales needs more doctors and nurses, not more politicians. The Welsh Conservatives would declare a health emergency, focussing the resources of the Welsh Government and the NHS on reducing these excessive waits, instead of on the ballooning bureaucracy.”

WIDER COnCERn

Health campaigners have long warned that excessive delays for treatment in Wales risk worsening patient outcomes. Opposition politicians say the backlog has left people waiting in pain, forced to seek private treatment, or facing deteriorating conditions before they are seen.

The Herald has approached the Welsh Government for comment.

Disabled n HS staff in west Wales say barriers remain despite calls for inclusion

A SURVEy of more than 800 disabled and neurodivergent doctors and medical students has revealed widespread discrimination across the nHS – with more than half saying ableism is worse in medicine than in wider society.

Among those speaking out is south Wales doctor Alice Gatenby, who said she has been told she is “not a real doctor” because her epilepsy prevents her from working night shifts. She described how requests for reasonable adjustments were dismissed as “too much hassle.”

Closer to home, Tricia Roberts, a clinical nurse specialist within adult ADHD services at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said her own experience shows the difference supportive workplaces can make.

Diagnosed with ADHD at 42 and autism at 47, she told The Herald: “I’ve been privileged to work in positions where the service gets it. I’m allowed to have flexible working and feel I can be myself.”

She added that a staff network for neurodivergent colleagues across the health board had been “really empowering” as it allowed people to feel better understood and supported.

The BMA survey also revealed that:

53% of respondents had either left the profession in the past two years, or seriously considered it.

More than a third had reported bullying or harassment linked to disability, neurodivergence or long-term health conditions.

Nearly three quarters said they had not received all of the reasonable adjustments they required.

Disability Wales said the findings were “concerning for the healthcare sector” and warned that a lack of representation undermines how disabled patients are understood and treated.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We expect all NHS Wales organisations to actively promote inclusion, and they are legally required to support disabled staff through reasonable adjustments and antidiscrimination measures under the Equality Act.”

Welsh activists join Greta Thunberg’s Gaza flotilla as it reaches Tunisia

WELSH activists are among the 350 campaigners travelling with greta Thunberg as her flotilla of aid boats, bound for gaza, arrived in Tunisia on Sunday (Sept 7).

The Swedish climate activist was greeted by huge crowds at Sidi Bou Said port, where the fleet paused for two days before continuing its journey across the

Mediterranean.

Among those on board are campaigners from Wales who have previously taken part in pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Cardiff, Swansea and across Pembrokeshire. They have joined the voyage as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla collective, which says its aim is to “break Israel’s illegal siege on Gaza” by

physically delivering aid by sea.

Thunberg, 22, told supporters gathered at the port:

“We all know why we are here.

Just across the water there’s a genocide going on, a mass starvation by Israel’s murder machine.”

French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan also addressed the crowd, saying: “The

Palestinian cause is not in the hands of governments today. It is in the hearts of peoples everywhere.”

The flotilla, which left Barcelona on Monday, is carrying medical supplies and food. Organisers confirmed it will be expanded in Tunisia, where additional aid and a Tunisian crew will join the mission.

This is not the first attempt to reach Gaza by sea. A similar voyage in June was intercepted by Israeli forces before reaching the territory. Israeli authorities have dismissed the flotillas as “publicity stunts”, insisting that aid supplies are blocked only when they risk being seized by Hamas.

Last month, however, a UN-backed body confirmed famine conditions inside Gaza. The UN’s humanitarian chief described it as the direct result of Israel’s “systematic obstruction” of aid deliveries.

The Herald understands Welsh activists plan to remain with Thunberg for the next leg of the voyage, which will attempt to enter Gazan waters later this week.

Davies urges health board chair to clean up hospitals

urgent assurances over the

University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.

At Barry Hospital, a patient reported blood dripping through ceiling tiles into a consultation room, alongside accounts of rats in the ceiling voids. At the University Hospital of Wales, whistleblowers and internal reviews highlighted serious issues including water leaks, pigeons entering trauma theatres, thefts, and the discovery of illegal drugs in a staff locker.

In his letter to Professor Charles Janczewski, Mr Davies said patients and staff were being exposed to “wholly unacceptable conditions” and called for assurances that a rolling programme of maintenance is in place to prevent such incidents from recurring. He also urged the Health Board to ensure clear reporting mechanisms are established so that the Senedd and the public are kept informed of progress.

Andrew RT Davies, Senedd Member for South Wales Central and former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, wrote: “In light of these serious matters I know you will agree that patients expect urgent assurances that a comprehensive rolling programme of maintenance is in place. This should not consist solely of reactive repairs, but must be proactive and preventive to ensure that hazards such as those at Barry Hospital and the University Hospital of Wales are identified and resolved before they put patients and staff at risk.

“I also ask that there are clear reporting mechanisms to ensure that the public and the Senedd are kept informed of maintenance priorities, progress, and completed works. Patients must be confident that our hospitals are safe, clean, and properly maintained.”

The Herald has approached Cardiff and Vale University Health Board for comment.

AnDREW RT DAVIES MS has written to the Chair of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board demanding

state of hospital facilities following disturbing reports from Barry Hospital and the

Greens clash with Reform UK over future of Wales and the Senedd

THE nEW leader of the green Party has accused Reform UK of holding Wales in “contempt” as both parties gear up for what could be the most unpredictable Senedd election in history.

Zack Polanski, confirmed this week as the Greens’ new leader, visited Wales and told supporters that Nigel Farage’s party was “treating Wales as nothing more than a stepping stone to Downing Street.” He said Reform’s refusal to appoint a Welsh leader showed “their contempt for this country,” adding: “Voters literally have no idea who their pick for First Minister would be for next year’s crucial Senedd elections.”

The Greens believe they have a chance of winning their first seat in Caerdydd Penarth. Polanski outlined his party’s vision to introduce rent controls, bring water into public ownership, and lower bills through renewable energy.

“Where they offer division, Greens offer actual solutions to people’s concerns,” he said.

FARAgE’S VISIOn FOR WALES

Nigel Farage has made Wales central to his campaign strategy, promising to bring back heavy industry and tackle economic decline. At an event in Port Talbot, he called for the reopening of coal mines to fuel Welsh blast furnaces. “Our belief is that—for what uses coal still has—we should produce our own coal… Many will take these jobs, even though mining is dangerous,” he said.

Farage has also promised to establish regional technical colleges in Wales to train young people in trades

such as welding, plumbing, electrical work and robotics. He tied this to what he described as Labour’s long failure to deliver for Wales, pointing to a £10,000 gap in GDP per person compared with the UK average.

On the campaign trail in Caerphilly, Reform UK highlighted failures in the NHS and pledged to cut “wasteful spending” in Cardiff Bay, as well as questioning Welsh Labour’s 20mph speed limit.

CALLS TO SCRAP THE SEnEDD

At Reform UK’s party conference in Birmingham this week, Laura Anne Jones MS, the party’s only member in the Senedd, suggested that abolition of the Welsh Parliament could be on the

table.

“We need to try and make the Senedd work for the people of Wales, but if it doesn’t we need to question whether the Senedd is really adding value,” she told delegates. Speaking afterwards, she added: “As a party we are not ruling anything out. If it gets to a point where even we cannot make it work for Wales, then we have to question why it’s there.”

Her comments mark one of the strongest signals yet that Reform could campaign to scrap the Senedd altogether, a policy likely to polarise Welsh voters.

CHAngIng POLITICAL LAnDSCAPE

With the Senedd set to expand

from 60 to 96 seats under a new voting system, both the Greens and Reform sense an opportunity to break into Welsh politics. A YouGov poll in May suggested Plaid Cymru leading with 30 per cent, Reform close behind on 25 per cent, and Labour slumping to 18 per cent.

The clash between the Greens and Reform highlights the wider realignment in Wales. The Greens are appealing to younger and urban voters with policies on housing and the environment, while Reform is targeting disillusioned communities with promises of industrial revival and constitutional shake-ups.

The next Senedd election is scheduled to take place by May 7, 2026.

Wi TH AnDREW LYE

week saw Angela Rayner resign from her positions in the UK Labour Government and as Deputy Party Leader. Then followed a sizeable Cabinet reshuffle.

Nigel Farage may have welcomed these events. However, the internal issues in the Labour Party hogged the TV, radio and newspaper columns. If Farage was hoping for hours of coverage of Reform’s conference, he must have been disappointed.

But Andrea Jenkin’s singing from the stage must be a first in UK politics. It made me laugh, anyway!

The Greens have elected Zack Polanski as their new leader and having heard him speak on radio interviews and on R4’s “Any Questions”, he is one to watch and listen to.

Meanwhile, at Westminster, the Liberal Democrats criticised the Welsh Labour Government in Cardiff Bay for their poor childcare offer.

Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick, accused the Welsh Government of leaving Welsh families extremely disadvantaged compared to those in England.

UK Government Minister for Minister for Early Education, Stephen Morgan, announced yet another expansion of childcare support in England. The expansion means that in England families receive support for 30 hours of funded childcare for all children between 9 months – 4 years old.

However, in Wales, support is only currently available for only 12.5 hours a week for 2-3-year-olds, 30 hours a week for 3–4-yearolds and no support for children under two. This means Wales has the least generous childcare offer in

Britain, despite having some of the lowest wages and extremely high child poverty rates.

The Minister refused to be drawn on whether he thinks his colleagues in Cardiff Bay should match the offer being made in England.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have long called for the Welsh Labour Government to expand childcare support, calling for 30 hours of free childcare to be rolled out for all children between 9 months and four years. The party argues this would not just help tackle the cost-of-living crisis and child poverty, but also boost the economy by allowing more women to return to work and freeing up family incomes to be spent in the wider economy.

The Welsh Lib Dems have already claimed some success in this area, with Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS securing an additional £30 million in budget negotiations with the Welsh Government to extend the Flying Start programme and have argued they could make greater changes with more Lib Dem Senedd Members elected next year.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster Spokesperson David Chadwick said:

“It is disappointing that the Welsh Labour Government has failed to match the 30 governmentfunded hours which has been implemented within England.

“This would have had a significant impact on families and children in Wales, especially given that wages in Wales are lower and child poverty rates are so high.

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats will continue to highlight the failures by the Welsh Labour Government and to fight for better funding to support families and children across Wales.”

if you have any issues

Reform MS says party not ruling out scrapping Senedd

REFORM UK’s only Senedd member has said the party is not ruling out the possibility of abolishing the Welsh Parliament if it cannot “work for Wales.”

Laura Anne Jones, who defected from the Welsh Conservatives earlier this year, made the comments during Reform’s UK conference at the NEC in Birmingham on Friday (Sept 5).

In her speech, Jones promised to reverse the controversial 20mph speed limit in Wales, pledged to build an M4 relief road and more GP surgeries, and said a Reform government would close hotels housing asylum seekers.

Speaking afterwards to BBC Wales, she said: “We need to try and make the Senedd work for the people of Wales, but if it doesn’t, we need to question whether the Senedd is really adding value to Wales. If it gets to a point where we, not even us, can make it work for Wales, then we have to question why it’s there.”

When asked directly if that meant questioning whether the Senedd should exist, she replied: “In the future.”

Jones denied calling for an immediate referendum but added: “As a party we are not ruling anything out.”

Her remarks put her at odds with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who has previously insisted his party would not field anti-devolution candidates.

Farage said earlier this year: “There is no room for this. We are seeing devolution across much of England now as well. It’s time that everybody here in Wales accepts it.”

Jones, who represents South Wales East, left the Conservatives in July during the Royal Welsh Show. She accused Labour of allowing Wales to “languish at the bottom of every

league table” over the past 26 years, saying the country had become “the poor man of Britain.”

Her speech also took aim at Welsh Government overseas offices and international treeplanting schemes, insisting money should be spent on services at home instead.

Reform is optimistic it can make significant gains in the Senedd elections next year, with recent polling suggesting the party is competing for first place.

The party is also preparing to contest the forthcoming byelection triggered by the death of Labour MS Hefin David, with its candidate expected to be announced next week.

Paul Davies selected as Conservative lead candidate for Ceredigion Penfro

PAUL DAVIES MS, who currently represents Preseli Pembrokeshire, has been chosen as the Welsh Conservatives’ lead candidate for the newly created Ceredigion Penfro seat at the next Senedd election.

Mr Davies said he was “honoured and privileged” to have been backed by party members in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, adding that he was grateful for their support. He will campaign alongside Samuel Kurtz MS, councillor Claire George and Brian

Murphy. Mr Davies described his running mates as “respected and committed representatives” with “a wealth of experience of serving communities in west Wales.”

Mr Davies said: “We will be running a positive campaign, with credible policies that show we understand the challenges facing communities in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

For too long, the people of west Wales have suffered because of the Welsh Labour Government supported by Plaid Cymru, and that will only change by voting

BlUE VIEW

With Paul Davies MS

The Senedd elections are on the horizon and it’s vital that you have your say.

The next Senedd election is on Thursday 7th May 2026 and this particular election marks the biggest change since the Senedd was established in 1999. Herald readers may already know that the Senedd is increasing from 60 members to 96 members, but there are other major changes that everyone should understand before next May.

for the Welsh Conservatives.”

nEW COnSTITUEnCy

The Ceredigion Penfro seat is one of the new constituencies created following a major redrawing of Senedd boundaries. The changes reduce the overall number of constituencies in Wales from 40 to 32, with each returning two Members.

Ceredigion Penfro combines the county of Ceredigion with parts of north Pembrokeshire, including Cardigan, Newport, St Dogmaels and Fishguard. The seat replaces the existing Ceredigion and Preseli Pembrokeshire constituencies.

The boundary reforms are designed to balance representation across Wales by creating constituencies with more equal population sizes.

POLITICAL BACKgROUnD

Mr Davies has served as the Member of the Senedd for Preseli Pembrokeshire since 2007. He was leader of the Welsh Conservatives between 2018 and 2021, stepping down after three years in the role.

The Conservatives will formally launch their campaign later this year. The next Senedd election is scheduled to take place in 2026.

Firstly, the constituencies that currently exist will be scrapped and replaced with new constituencies. Instead of the current 40 constituencies, there will now be 16. In the case of Pembrokeshire, there will be one seat which covers the entire county and couples it with the neighbouring county of Ceredigion. The seat is called Ceredigion Penfro and reaches almost all the way up to Aberdovey in the North and right down to Penally in the South.

The second major change is that rather than voting for your local Senedd Member and then for a political party on the regional list, voters will now have one vote to choose your representatives. The new voting system is called a ‘closed proportional list system’ and it means that you vote for a political party or an independent candidate, rather than individual people. In the past you could choose the individual that you want to represent you, but now you’ll only have the opportunity to choose the party. Each seat will reflect the percentage of votes each party or independent candidate gets and if a party wins enough votes, they will win one or more seats in the Senedd.

It’s a more complicated system, that in my view, makes politicians

less accountable to the people and more accountable to their political party. It’s a point that my party has continued to make during the legislative process but unfortunately, it’s fallen on deaf ears. In fact, the Welsh Conservatives are the only party that have opposed the introduction of more Senedd Members – but despite our efforts, these plans were pushed through by Welsh Labour, Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Liberal Democrats. They argue that this system of proportional representation is fairer and better reflects the will of the voters. Time will tell. Readers, it’s vital that you understand these changes and are prepared when you vote in May. When you go to the ballot box, you have an opportunity to have your say on the current administration – which has been run by Welsh Labour and supported by Plaid Cymru. Six Senedd Members will be elected in the Ceredigion Penfro seat next May and so I’m encouraging everyone to familiarise themselves with the new electoral system and start thinking about the policies that have come from Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru in this Senedd and whether you want to see more of those policies or less. There could be a real mix of parties elected in this seat at the next election, and it’s more important than ever that you have your say. Your vote matters – so take a moment to read up on the changes to the electoral system in Wales and think about how you want to be represented at the Senedd.

SEnD YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDiTOR, 11 HAMiLTOn TERRACE, MIlFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHiRE, SA73 3AL

EMAiL US AT: editor@herald.email

iS THiS REALLY THE FUTURE WE WAnT?

DEAR SIR,

Fifty-two per cent of British adults voted for Brexit – a movement driven by the extreme Right and defined by a refusal to cooperate with nations who once stood with us against nazi racism.

This outcome shows how the UK media, owned and shaped by plutocrats, has distorted the memory of the wartime generation.

The heroic spirit of British citizens in the Second World War has been re-cast into today’s uneducated hardRight rhetoric of Reform – a movement disturbingly similar to Nazism, and without any ethical principle.

Nigel Farage boasts that if he were Prime Minister, he would bribe countries –some in Africa – to accept deported Channel migrants. But can voters not see the weakness of this logic?

Any such nations would quickly meet to plan how best to profit from Britain’s desperation. They would raise their demands, collude to push up prices, and exploit Britain’s dependence

on Farage’s scheme.

The result would be an “elastic market” in human beings, where cooperation depended on patience and greed. Some governments might even see advantage in encouraging Channel gangs, sustaining a lucrative trade in forced deportations paid for by Britain.

Is this really the future we want? A country that replaces ethical principle with cynical bargaining, and wartime solidarity with the hollow promises of populists?

There remains a minority of British adults with genuine ethical values. The question is: will that be enough?

C. n. Westerman

iT iS MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE

DEAR SIR,

Around 150 years ago, humanity discovered that one of our most fundamental assumptions about life and death was wrong. For centuries, people believed that when a life was ending, nothing could be done. yet in the 19th century, science revealed a remarkable truth: if someone was

not hoarded. The old wisdom remains as true as ever: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” If we cannot grasp that, even after centuries of revelation, then we have truly misunderstood the purpose of our existence.

n. Westerman

GREAT THINKERS HAVE WARnED US OF THiS FOR CEnTURiES

DEAR SIR,

dying from loss of blood, another person could save them with a transfusion. Since then, further truths have emerged—hearts can be transplanted from the deceased, kidneys donated by the living. These discoveries overturned what we thought we knew about the limits of human survival.

Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan to show that one individual, willing to risk themselves, could save another. Yet, in practice, many have always turned away from such opportunities. Today, each young adult inherits a monumental power for good— to give life to others at little cost to themselves. One would imagine this would be a cause for pride and purpose. Yet only a small percentage choose to become donors, despite this gift being a clear part of the universe’s unfolding design.

History shows us the sacrifices of those who travelled across the world to fight beside Britons in the Second World War, laying down their lives to defeat Nazi tyranny. How disheartened they would be to see how patriotism has been reduced to shallow flag-waving, while the true spirit of sacrifice is neglected.

The message of this universe is plain: life has meaning when it is given,

When nigel Farage outlined the policies of the Reform Party at their conference, I was struck by how closely his rhetoric resembled that of Brexit: a strident nationalism, hostility towards cooperation with other nations, and an undercurrent of racism. He even seems prepared to disregard international laws created in the aftermath of the Second World War to secure peace across the globe.

I cannot help but wonder whether these are truly his intentions, disguised in order to appeal to confused and disillusioned minds.

By contrast, I believe Sir Keir Starmer shows statesmanship of the highest order. His proposal that Britain should bring injured children from Gaza to receive care here demonstrates the moral leadership we should expect from our politicians. It recognises that children, targeted by both Hamas and hardliners in the Israeli cabinet, are the innocent victims of a cycle in which evil begets evil.

Great thinkers have warned us of this for centuries. Wordsworth captured it perfectly when he wrote: “Duty, stern daughter of the voice of God.” Our duty today is clear: to extend compassion, medical care, and protection to the most vulnerable. Perhaps even leaders such as Vladimir Putin might learn from such an example.

Daniel James

Pic TUre oF The week!

New bridge iN Haverfordwest by darreN tucker

death notices

Dyl AN J OSHUA lEAF

Milford Haven

Dylan of Plas Peregrine, Milford Haven passed away peacefully at Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthen on Saturday 30th August, aged 30 years.

Devoted dad of Aiden, cherished and adored son to Simon & Sian and a dearly loved brother, grandson, uncle, nephew and cousin.

The funeral will take place on Tuesday 16th September at 2.30pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Immediate family flowers only.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180

M R A LU n Wi LL i AM n i CHOLAS

Milford Haven (formerly of goodwick)

Alun passed away at home with his loving family by his side.

Beloved husband of Ray (Rachel), devoted and cherished father of Simon, Claire & Amy, adored father figure to his sister Jacqui, loving father-in-law to Jenny & Steve and adored and loving grandfather of Emily, Lowri, Elin & Aled. A very dear brother and brother-in-law and much loved uncle.

Alun was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by family and friends.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday 18th September at 11:30am at North Road Baptist Church, Milford Haven, followed by committal at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1.00pm.

All are welcome at either or both services.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Pembrokeshire Haematology and Oncology Unit at Withybush Hospital for their support over the last year.

Family flowers only, but donations if desired may be made to the Cancer Day Unit Appeal Fund: Trish George, Treasurer, c/o 12 Mariners Way, Steynton, Milford Haven, SA73 1AZ. Telephone number: 01646 698736

M RS . V IO l ET J OHN

Milford Haven

The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Friday 29th August, of Mrs. Violet John, aged 90 years of Milford Haven. Devoted wife of the late Roy, dearly loved mother to Ruth, Shirley, Mel and his wife Gillian and a cherished grandmother.

The funeral will take place on Monday 15th September at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Immediate family flowers only, donations if desired for The British Heart Foundation may be made via www.bhf.org.uk.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180

B RE n DA M ARY TALBOT

BREnDA passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on the 22nd August aged 79 years.

Dearly loved, she will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.

Her funeral service is to take place on Thursday 11th September 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Donations, if desired, for Wales Air Ambulance may be forwarded to Ty Elusen, Ffordd Angel, Llanelli Gate, Dafen, Llanelli. SA14 8LQ or online www.walesairambulance.com.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

M RS . V IO l ET J OHN Pembroke Dock

Terri of Brewery Street, Pembroke Dock passed away peacefully at Morriston Hospital, Swansea on Thursday 28th August, aged 75 years.

Dearly loved mother of Christine (Chrissy), Mark and his wife Sophie and Amanda, ad a cherished grandmother to Paula, Harry & Freya.

Terri will be fondly remembered during her time working at Tesco, Pembroke Dock.

The funeral will take place on

Monday 15th September at 12.15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Following the service light refreshments and cake will be served at Y Cerrig Glas Pembroke Dock, all are welcome.

Family flowers only, donations if desired may be made to The British Heart Foundation via www.bhf.org.uk

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180

M RS . H EATHER R OSEMARY M C C ARTHY Milford Haven

The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Wednesday 27th August of Mrs. Heather Rosemary McCarthy, aged 84 years of Meyler Crescent, Milford Haven.

Dearly loved wife of the late Justin, devoted mother and mother in law to Julie & Doug, Sean & Pauline and Neil & Linda and an adored grandmother and great grandmother.

The funeral will take place on Monday 29th September at 10.30am at St. Francis Church, Priory Road, Milford Haven followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only, donations if desired may be made to The Paul Sartori Foundation via paulsartori.org.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180

RECl AIMED BUIlDING MATERIAl

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAl

SHUTTERS & BLinDS

STORAGE TANKS

PROFESSiOnAL CAR WASH PODiATRY SCRAP

SOUND

British Rally Championship title battle wide open after Rali Ceredigion

THE FIgHT for the 2025 Probite British Rally Championship will go down to the wire after Castrol MEM Rally Team drivers William Creighton and Meirion Evans both came away from Rali Ceredigion (September 5–7) with crucial points.

Creighton and co-driver Liam Regan brought their Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 home fourth overall, securing thirdplace championship points. Evans and co-driver Dale Furniss recovered from an early off to finish 10th overall, banking fifth-place BRC points

to keep their title hopes alive.

TOUgH TEST In MID WALES

The three-day event, run over 12 demanding stages and 115 miles of closed public roads across mid and west Wales, proved unforgiving. Only a handful of crews completed the rally without incident.

Creighton, the 27-yearold Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy driver, adopted a calculated approach. With the championship in mind, he maintained a fast but measured pace, staying close

to the leaders but avoiding unnecessary risks. Even when heavy rain hit on the final afternoon, he remained composed to extend his championship lead heading into the season finale.

Evans, from Lampeter, had been targeting a strong result on home ground after impressive asphalt form this season. But stage three, the Y Diafol test, lived up to its name when he spun backwards off the road on a patch of slick tarmac, losing almost eight minutes. Despite the setback, he fought back from 21st

overall to break into the top ten by Sunday evening, ensuring his championship challenge continues.

DRIVERS REFLECT On MIXED FORTUnES

Creighton said: “It’s been a consistent weekend, and a BRC podium is a good result here. We couldn’t afford to miss out on points, so the approach was measured. The team and the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy have done a fantastic job. Now we can focus on the Cambrian Rally and make sure we’re ready for the title decider.”

Evans admitted his frustration but remained upbeat: “We’ve had a strong year, but this was a disappointing home rally. We went too safe on the early setup and then spun off on stage three. Losing eight minutes ended any chance of victory, but the motivation was to keep the title alive. We pushed hard, climbed back to the top ten, and scored enough points to stay in the hunt. It wasn’t the weekend we wanted, but we’ll regroup and fight on the Cambrian.”

TITLE SHOWDOWn nEXT MOnTH

With just one round remaining – the Cambrian Rally in October – the BRC title battle between Creighton and Evans is still alive, setting up a dramatic conclusion to the season.

Cymru outclassed by Canada in Swansea Friendly

An inexperienced Cymru side were given a stern examination in Swansea as Canada’s pace and power proved too much in a 1–0 friendly defeat.

Craig Bellamy, taking charge of his first friendly as head coach, made sweeping changes from last week’s World Cup qualifying victory in Kazakhstan, retaining just three players from that line-up. The reshuffle showed, with Cymru producing a disjointed display against opponents who looked sharp and cohesive throughout.

The visitors, who will co-host next summer’s World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico, struck the woodwork twice before deservedly taking the lead shortly before half-time. Rangers defender Derek Cornelius delivered the game’s decisive moment, unleashing a thunderous 30-yard free-kick

that dipped viciously beyond the despairing Cymru goalkeeper.

Bellamy had deliberately sought out a stern test, with Canada ranked three places above his side in the FIFA standings. Their qualities were plain to see: pace on the break, relentless pressing and a physical intensity that gave Cymru problems all evening. “I wanted the players to be properly tested,” Bellamy admitted beforehand, and there was no shortage of lessons to take from this bruising encounter.

Canada, fielding something close to their strongest side under head coach Jesse Marsch, were on the front foot from the start. Ismael Koné rattled the post after a misplaced pass from Neco Williams, while defender Luc De Fougerolles almost stole the show with an audacious back-heeled volley that cannoned off the crossbar. The breakthrough arrived just a

minute later, Cornelius’ spectacular strike sealing a lead the visitors rarely looked like surrendering.

Cymru fashioned only fleeting chances of their own. Daniel James squandered their best opening with a weak effort, while much of the match saw the hosts pinned back in their own half.

Despite being billed as a friendly, the match carried a competitive edge. Referee bookings were plentiful – seven yellow cards in total, including one shown to Marsch after an altercation on the touchline. As the game wore on and substitutions broke up the rhythm, tempers cooled and the tempo dipped.

For Bellamy, whose record now stands at two defeats from 12 matches in charge, there were some positives to cling to. Three players were handed their senior debuts: Ronan Kpakio started at right-back,

A win would have been welcome, but the greater value lies in the experience gained by those on the fringes of the squad. With a trip to Wembley to face England on the horizon, followed by a crunch World Cup qualifier against Belgium, Bellamy will hope this exposure to Canada’s intensity proves invaluable. Those fixtures promise to be significant markers in Cymru’s development. England, long-standing rivals, will provide a high-profile test under the Wembley floodlights, while Belgium remain one of Europe’s elite sides and direct competition in qualifying. Bellamy will be acutely aware that the lessons from Swansea must be applied swiftly if his team are to meet those challenges with confidence.

while midfielders Joel Colwill and Kai Andrews were introduced from the bench.

Haverfordwest County sweep aside Swansea City U21s

HAVERFORDWEST COUnTy produced a memorable performance on Wednesday night (September 10) to defeat Swansea City under-21s 4-1 in the third round of the nathaniel Mg Cup at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium.

The Bluebirds made the perfect start when Owain Jones struck in the 18th minute, putting the hosts in front against their academy visitors.

County continued to press after the break and were rewarded just past the hour mark as Greg Walters doubled the lead in the 68th minute. Swansea’s youngsters were struggling to cope with the intensity, and within four minutes the advantage was stretched further when Thomas Woodward added a third (72’).

With ten minutes remaining, Luc Owen made it 4-0 (80’) to the delight of the home supporters. Swansea

managed a late consolation, but the final whistle confirmed a commanding 4-1 win for the Pembrokeshire side.

The result sends Haverfordwest County into the quarter-finals of the competition, securing one of their most impressive cup victories in recent years against a club renowned for its academy production line.

Swansea had arrived unbeaten in their Professional Development

League campaign, with wins over Crewe Alexandra, Huddersfield Town and Coventry City, and having scored nine goals in two previous rounds of the competition. But on the night in Pembrokeshire, the young Swans were second best.

The draw for the quarter-finals will determine the Bluebirds’ next test, but for now manager Tony Pennock’s side can reflect on a job well done in front of a buoyant Ogi Bridge Meadow crowd.

narberth kick off season with dramatic win over Bargoed

nARBERTH edged out Bargoed 28-26 at the Lewis Lloyd ground on Saturday (Sept 6), sealing victory in a thrilling Admiral Premiership opener decided by a late penalty.

On the first league Saturday of the season, Narberth welcomed Bargoed, who finished fourth in the division last year, to West Wales. A large crowd gathered in sunny but windy conditions and were treated to an enthralling contest that went right down to the wire.

The hosts made a flying start, with winger Harry Fuller crossing in the corner before scrum half Lewys Gibby produced a superb solo effort close to the posts. Both were converted by fly half Jonathan Rogers to make it 14-0 after just 15 minutes.

Bargoed responded with two tries of their own, but a Rogers penalty on the stroke of half time gave Narberth a 17-12 lead at the break.

Early in the second half, Rogers tapped a quick penalty which allowed wing Dean

James to sprint almost the length of the field for a spectacular try in the corner. Rogers added another penalty to extend the lead to 22-12, but Bargoed hit back with a converted try following a dazzling run from their full back to narrow the gap to 22-19. Rogers’ accuracy from the tee gave Narberth further breathing space, but Bargoed showed their resilience and crossed for a fourth try with ten minutes remaining, the conversion edging them ahead 26-25. Just when it looked like the visitors would take the spoils, Narberth were awarded a penalty just inside halfway. Rogers stepped up under pressure and coolly slotted the kick to restore a 28-26 advantage. The Otters defended resolutely in the dying moments to secure a famous victory.

Captain Tom Powell was named Courtland Law Man of the Match. Narberth now face a tough trip to Pontypridd next weekend before returning home to play Cross Keys on Saturday, September 20.

manderwood Pembrokeshire leagUe

Fixtures

Division