The Pembrokeshire Herald 14/03/2025

MAN FACES CHARgES OvER tragic death of baby • P4

‘Shark fishing’ ruse exposed as £100m cocaine haul uncovered

A FISHING boat supposedly heading out for a shark-fishing trip was, in reality, smuggling more than a ton of high-purity cocaine worth £100 million into the UK. The Lily Lola, intercepted by Border Force officers off the coast of Cornwall, had been used to retrieve drug parcels from the sea in a sophisticated smuggling operation.

Two men from west Wales, Jon Williams and Patrick Godfrey, were arrested after the vessel was boarded last September. Williams, who had purchased the boat just two months earlier for £140,000, was at the helm, while Godfrey was found sleeping on deck. The boat had sailed from Newquay to a designated drop-off point near the Isles of Scilly, where packages were floating in the water, believed to have been left by a South American cartel. Law enforcement agencies had been tracking the Lily Lola for some time. Covert surveillance included listening devices and GPS trackers, allowing officers to monitor the crew’s movements

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and conversations. When the boat was seized and taken to Plymouth Royal Dockyard, officers discovered 49 bales of cocaine, though messages retrieved from the vessel’s Garmin device suggested they had failed to collect 19 additional parcels.

Investigators also found damning evidence on Godfrey’s phone, including a message instructing someone to “delete everything u see and not show anybody” and an internet search for “how long does it take a ship to leave Peru to UK.”

Both Williams, aged 46, of Windmill Terrace, Swansea, and Godfrey, 31, of Danygraig Road, Swansea, denied conspiring to smuggle cocaine but were convicted at Truro Crown Court following a trial. Two other men onboard, Michael John Paul Kelly, 45, from Manchester, and Jake Marchant, 27, of no fixed address, had already pleaded guilty to the offence. All four are due to be

sentenced on May 8.

Following the convictions, NCA branch commander Derek Evans said: “This seizure has prevented a massive quantity of cocaine from flooding the streets of the UK and Europe. Organised criminals would have made vast profits from this smuggling operation, but thanks

to the work of the NCA and Border Force, we have dismantled a key supply chain.”

The case highlights the lengths criminal gangs will go to in order to smuggle drugs into the country, with law enforcement agencies remaining vigilant against increasingly sophisticated trafficking methods.

Some of the cocaine recovered by the National Crime Agency (Image NCA)

The Lily Lola was a drugs collection vessel (Image NCA)

Some of the bails of cocaine (Image NCA)

Man faces charges over tragic death of baby

A MAN accused of involvement in the death of a six-month-old baby in a multi-storey car park in Tenby has appeared in court.

Flaviu Naghi, 34, from Leigh, is charged in connection with the incident that led to the death of Sophia Kelemen on January 2. The infant was rushed to hospital but succumbed to her injuries the following day.

Naghi faces allegations of causing death by dangerous driving, as well as driving without a licence or insurance.

However, his legal representatives argue that he was not behind the wheel at the time.

At a recent hearing, Naghi’s defence solicitor, Dean Pulling, suggested the case against him might be dismissed, stating that while Naghi had turned on the car’s ignition, he had not actually entered or driven the vehicle. According

to the defence, the handbrake had been left off, causing the car to move forward unintentionally.

Naghi was granted bail after a hearing at Swansea Crown Court, pending further checks on his proposed bail address. A decision on whether the case will proceed is expected on March 21, with a provisional trial date set for June 2.

Dyfed-Powys Police, who continue to investigate the tragic incident, have urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances.

Sophia was airlifted to hospital with critical injuries, including a broken pelvis and a brain bleed, but tragically died the following day (Jan 3).

Her devastated family have since launched a fundraising appeal to help repatriate her body to Romania. Writing on GoFundMe, Sophia’s aunt, Adriana, said: “Never in a million years would I have thought I would have to write a post like this. A seemingly ordinary day turned into our family’s worst nightmare.”

She added: “Despite the efforts of the doctors, Sophia could not cope with the impact, the surgery, anaesthesia, and the brain bleed. All the injuries were too much for her fragile heart, which eventually gave out.”

Witnesses described chaotic scenes at the car park, with emergency services flooding the area and a helicopter hovering overhead. One bystander said: “I saw loads of blue lights and people gathered. It was clear something very serious had happened.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Our thoughts remain with Sophia’s family at this incredibly difficult time. They are being supported by specially trained officers.”

The Range to open new store in Haverfordwest

The Range has announced the opening date for its new store in Haverfordwest, set to welcome customers on Friday, April 25. The store, located in the former Homebase unit, is part of a wider expansion plan, which aims to convert more than 50 locations by the end of May.

The Range confirmed: “Our brandnew dog-friendly store is opening on Friday, April 25 in the former Homebase unit.”

The new store will also include a Homebase Garden Centre, offering a variety of gardening and outdoor products.

The Range has encouraged customers to attend the official opening, stating: “Join us for our grand opening to be among the first to explore the new store, shop our range of favourite products, and take advantage of unmissable offers.”

The first 50 customers in the queue will receive goody bags, while the first five dogs to visit will also receive special treats.

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Calls for urgent reform as violence among teens rises

WALES is experiencing an alarming surge in violent crime among young people, sparking urgent calls for the Welsh Government to reassess its approach to youth justice and crime prevention. This growing crisis has led to renewed scrutiny of the Youth Justice Blueprint for Wales, with critics arguing that it is failing to prevent serious offenses, including knife crime, sexual violence, and gang-related violence.

A GRoWING EpIdEMIC oF YoUTH vIoLENCE

The issue of youth crime has come to the forefront following several high-profile cases involving teenage offenders. Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Dr. Altaf Hussain MS, has expressed grave concerns about the rise in youth violence, citing cases such as:

• The knife attack at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford, where a 14-year-old girl attempted to murder two teachers and a fellow student. The girl later told police she did it “for notoriety.”

• Stabbings in Mid Wales, where violent altercations between teenagers have left multiple victims hospitalised.

• Attempted murder in Newport, highlighting an increasing trend in serious violence among young offenders.

Dr. Hussain stressed that the rise in violent crime is not limited to youth offenders. He pointed out that Wales is “bucking the national trend,” with violent crime increasing in regions such as South Wales and Gwent, even as other parts of the UK see a decline.

“Disturbingly, South Wales Police is the only force to see a rise in sexual violence, and conviction rates remain dismally low,” Dr. Hussain stated. “We need assurances from the Welsh Government that Police and Crime Commissioners have robust plans to tackle violent crime and sexual violence so that families and communities in Wales can feel safe.”

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CRIME dATA: THE REALITY IN WALES

Recent statistics support the growing concerns about violent crime across Wales. According to the latest figures:

Knife crime is on the rise across Wales, following a 4% national increase in knife-related offenses in England and Wales, reaching 50,010 incidents in the year ending March 2024 (ONS).

Sexual offenses reported in South Wales increased last year, making it the only force area in the UK to see a rise in such crimes.

1.9 million violent or sexual crimes in England and Wales were closed without a suspect being caught or charged in the year to June 2024, with 89% of all offenses going unsolved (The Guardian).

Additionally, the Crime Survey for England and Wales shows that 0.5% of people aged 16 and over experienced violence with or without injury from an acquaintance, and 0.7% experienced stranger violence, with no statistically significant change from the previous year.

Local perspective: What’s happening in Dyfed-Powys?

Closer to home, Dyfed-Powys Police data provides a clearer picture of crime in Pembrokeshire and surrounding regions:

• Violence against the person remains one of the most common offenses in Dyfed-Powys, with reports increasing year-on-year.

• Knife-related offenses are rising, although the total number remains lower than in urban areas like Cardiff and Newport.

• Drug-related violence and gang activity are emerging issues in towns across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Ceredigion.

The force has warned that social media is fueling gang culture among teens, with platforms like Snapchat and TikTok being used to organize fights and intimidate rivals.

ARE CURRENT STRATEGIES FAILING?

In 2019, the Welsh Government introduced the Youth Justice Blueprint for Wales, aimed at reducing reoffending rates among young people. However, critics argue that the strategy has failed to address early intervention, and many offenders remain trapped in a cycle of crime.

Dr. Hussain has called on the Welsh Government to take immediate action, including:

• Ensuring Police and Crime Commissioners adopt stricter crime prevention strategies.

• Increasing funding for youth intervention programs that deter young people from joining gangs or engaging in violence.

• Addressing the root causes of youth crime, such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and social exclusion.

“We cannot allow Wales to become a breeding ground for violent crime,” Dr. Hussain added. “If the Welsh Government is serious about tackling this issue, it must act now, before more lives are lost.”

WHAT’S NExT?

With violent crime continuing to escalate, pressure is mounting on the Welsh Government to take decisive action. The public, police, and politicians agree that something must be done— but the question remains: how soon will change come?

For now, communities across Wales remain on edge, hoping for urgent reforms that will bring safety back to the

Former Bishop jailed for historic child sex abuse

A FoRMER bishop has been jailed for sexually abusing a boy over a fiveyear period while serving as a priest.

Anthony pierce, 84, who was bishop of Swansea and Brecon from 1999 to 2008, admitted five counts of indecent assault on a child under 16.

Swansea Crown Court heard the abuse took place between 1985 and 1990 while pierce was a parish priest in West Cross, Swansea.

Sentencing him to four years and one month in prison—half to be served behind bars before release on licence— Judge Catherine Richards told him: “You exploited his age and your position of trust.”

In a statement read in court, the victim said he remembered “exactly how I felt as the abuse took place” and described an “overwhelming sense of embarrassment” that prevented him from speaking out at the time.

“I have very low self-esteem and selfworth. I do not have friends. I feel trapped as I’m unable to move past the trauma of what happened,” he said.

The victim said he became dependent on alcohol as a teenager and struggled to form relationships. However, speaking out had given him an “overwhelming sense of relief” and made him feel “released from something that’s had a hold over me all these years”.

Pierce, who appeared in court with

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grey hair and glasses, was also made subject to a sexual harm prevention order and will remain on the sex offenders register for life, barring him from working or volunteering with children or vulnerable adults.

Prosecutor Dean Pulling said the abuse was “completely uninvited and unwanted”.

“He said he felt repelled by what the defendant did to him,” Mr Pulling told the court.

During a police interview, Pierce denied being attracted to children.

Judge Richards told Pierce, who was

in his late 40s at the time of the offences: “You were expected to be trusted and respected. Any parent or adult at that time would understandably have trusted that their child was safe with you and you would act in accordance with your professed Christian values.

“Instead, you began to groom him.”

Defending, Heath Edwards said Pierce “deeply regrets the behaviour” and warned there was a risk he would “spend the rest of his life serving a custodial sentence”.

The Church in Wales said it felt “profound shame” over the offences and confirmed allegations about Pierce’s abuse only emerged in 2023 when the victim came forward.

In a statement, a spokesperson said: “Anthony Pierce has abused his position, disgraced his church and, worst of all, inflicted appalling and lasting trauma on his victim.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim in this case, who has shown immense courage in reporting what are deeply painful experiences. We offer him the most heartfelt apology for what he has had to endure.”

It later emerged that a separate allegation of sexual abuse against Pierce was reported to senior church figures in 1993—17 years before it was passed to police. The alleged victim, believed to

have been under 18 at the time, had died by the time the church informed officers in 2010.

The Church in Wales has launched an independent review into the handling of that complaint and wider safeguarding procedures.

Pierce, who was made a commander of the Order of St John in 2002 and a knight of the order in 2010 for charitable service, is no longer a member, St John Ambulance confirmed.

He stepped down as bishop in January 2008, aged 67. Swansea University, which had awarded him an honorary fellowship, said it would now review that decision.

The Right Reverend John Lomas, the current Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, said he would ask the tribunal to consider deposing Pierce from Holy Orders—the most severe sanction available.

Monique McKevitt, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said Pierce initially denied the offences but pleaded guilty when confronted with “overwhelming prosecution evidence”.

She described his actions as a “gross abuse of trust” by someone expected to preside over important religious ceremonies.

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “As a parish priest, Pierce grossly exploited his position of trust in the community to abuse a teenageboy.

“The victim in this case has shown great bravery in speaking out and helping to ensure Pierce faced justice for his crimes.

“Child sexual abuse can have a devastating and lasting impact on the victims, which is why it is so important that anyone who suffers such abuse knows that if they speak out, they will be listened to and supported.

“It is also vital that anyone who has worries about a child’s safety, raises their concerns. They can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or help@ nspcc.org.uk.”

St Dogmaels man sentenced after sword stick discovery and assault

A MAN who admitted assaulting another man and possessing a concealed sword has been sentenced at Aberystwyth Justice Centre.

David Rees, 62, of St Dogmaels, pleaded guilty to assault by beating and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place. The court heard that Rees had a sword stick—a weapon disguised as a walking stick—at his home.

The incident took place on September 16, 2024, at a building plot in St Dogmaels. That day, armed police, dog units, and a helicopter were deployed to the village, with police later describing the matter as an “isolated incident” that had been “safely resolved.” Officers remained in the area into the evening to reassure residents.

Rees had admitted both offences last year, but sentencing was delayed for a Newton hearing—a process used when there is a dispute over key facts that could affect sentencing.

On Thursday (Mar 6), magistrates handed Rees a 12-month conditional discharge. This means that if he commits another offence within the next year, he could be sentenced for both crimes.

The court also issued a forfeiture and destruction order for the sword stick and imposed a restraining order preventing Rees from contacting his victim or visiting a specified address in St Dogmaels. Rees was ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £26 victim surcharge.

Tom

Launch of Celtic Freeport ‘vital’ for economic growth

THE CELTIC FREEpoRT has been officially launched, bringing significant inward investment to South West Wales and taking a major step towards creating thousands of new jobs, the Welsh Government announced this week. It also re-affirmed its commitment to £26 million of UK Government investment.

The freeport, covering the ports of Milford Haven and Port Talbot, is set to play a crucial role in the UK’s clean energy future. It spans multiple industries, including clean energy developments, fuel terminals, power generation, heavy engineering, and the steel sector.

Businesses operating within the freeport area will benefit from substantial UK and Welsh Government tax breaks and customs exemptions to encourage investment. The initiative is expected to attract £8.4 billion in private and public investment, generate 11,500 new jobs, and contribute £8.1 billion in economic value (GVA) to the region.

The freeport was launched at an event in Cardiff, attended by Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens and Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning.

Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for

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Wales, said: “This Government has a Plan for Change focused on delivering economic growth and ensuring the UK becomes a renewable energy superpower. This announcement is a significant step towards achieving those ambitions.

“The Celtic Freeport will create up to 11,500 well-paid, highly skilled jobs and could leverage up to £8.4 billion in investment.

“The UK Government has committed £26 million to the freeport, alongside significant incentives from both the UK and Welsh Governments. I am very pleased to see two governments working in partnership to deliver for the people of Wales.”*

“A vital cog in the UK’s low-carbon economy”

Rebecca Evans, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said:

“The official opening of the Celtic Freeport sends another clear signal to the world that the industrial heartlands of South Wales are a vital cog in the UK’s low-carbon economy.

“We are already seeing real enthusiasm across the region and

beyond to capitalise on the skills and job opportunities that this new industrial age will provide. The Welsh Government will be at Celtic’s side, offering major tax reliefs to attract business investment.

“The Freeport will also be able to use future non-domestic rates revenues to fund vital infrastructure and skills projects, benefiting Port Talbot and Milford Haven for generations to come.”

Freeport projects already making progress

Following the successful launch, Luciana Ciubotariu, CEO of Celtic Freeport, highlighted the rapid progress of key projects: “The Celtic Freeport is making significant strides forward with milestones such as planning consents for LanzaTech’s sustainable aviation fuel production plants, RWE’s Pembroke Green Hydrogen plant, and the launch of the Milford Haven CO Project.

“Other major developments include H2 Energy and Trafigura’s West Wales Hydrogen project securing a hydrogen CfD, Haush establishing a green energy HQ, and the approval of wind turbine developments to expand Dragon Energy’s Renewables Park.

“These initiatives, alongside investments in battery energy storage by RWE and port infrastructure at Port Talbot, are accelerating South Wales’ reindustrialisation and driving a decarbonised economy rich in evolving and new industries.”

A CLEANER, GREENER FUTURE

The Celtic Freeport aims to establish a green investment and innovation corridor, driving inward investment, skills development, and national decarbonisation. Key focus areas include:

• Floating offshore wind (FLOW) in the Celtic Sea

• Hydrogen economy and sustainable fuels

• Carbon capture and storage

• Cleaner steel production

• Low-carbon logistics

As one of 12 Freeports across the UK, the Celtic Freeport will play a pivotal role in the UK Government’s Growth Mission, supporting the transition to green industries and creating thousands of high-quality jobs for local communities.

Driver fined for ignoring no overtaking sign near Narberth

A VAN DRIVER has been fined for failing to comply with a traffic sign on the A40 near Narberth.

Ieuan Jones, 21, of Brynheulog, Maesglas, Tredegar appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Mar 12), where he pleaded guilty to the offence.

The court heard that on October 11, 2024, at 5:16pm, Jones was driving a Citroen Relay along the A40 when he failed to comply with a no-overtaking

sign. The restriction was part of The A40 Trunk Road (Robeston Wathen Roundabout to Pengawse Hill Junction) Temporary Traffic Order 2022. Jones was fined £40, ordered to pay £110 in costs, and a £16 victim surcharge. He must pay the total amount by April 9, 2025. A second charge against him— failing to provide police with the identity of a driver—was withdrawn.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens – Speaking at the Celtic Freeport event in Cardiff

No jail for Pembrokeshire man with child images

A pEMBRoKESHIRE man who was found with hundreds of indecent images of children on his phone has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Swansea Crown Court heard that police arrested Lawrence Lambert, 26, of Llandissilio, following an investigation by Dyfed-Powys Police’s online child abuse unit.

Officers searched his home on August 17, 2022, seizing his iPhone 13 Pro Max. A preliminary examination at the scene uncovered a URL in the phone’s notes app that linked to a website storing illegal images.

Further analysis revealed Lambert had 250 Category A images—the most serious level of abuse—comprising 207 videos and 43 photographs. In addition, officers found 115 Category B and 134 Category C images. The site was accessed using an account registered with an email and phone number linked to Lambert, and traced to his home IP address.

In his first police interview, Lambert answered “no comment” to most questions

but insisted the pornography he watched was “18 plus.”

He initially denied three charges of making indecent images of children and was due to stand trial on February 19. However, he changed his plea on the morning of the trial, admitting to all charges.

Defence solicitor Jon Tarrant said Lambert had no previous convictions but struggled to accept responsibility for his offending. He described him as “isolated” and said the case had had a “considerable impact” on him.

Sentencing, Judge Catherine Richards told Lambert: “These are not just indecent images of children. These are images of children being sexually abused. By your actions, you supported that vile trade.”

Lambert was sentenced to 13 months in prison, suspended for 18 months. He must complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 25 rehabilitation days.

He will remain on the sex offenders register for 10 years and is subject to a five-year sexual harm prevention order.

Electrician banned after drink-driving on A40

A self-employed electrician has been banned from the roads after being caught driving through the A40 Scotchwell roundabout when he was over the legal drink-drive limit.

Police were called to the roundabout soon after 3.30 pm on February 24 following reports from members of the

public concerning a motorist’s standard of driving.

There they discovered a vehicle driven by 42-year-old Steffan Jones.

A roadside breath test proved positive while further breath tests carried out at the police custody suite showed he had been driving with 58 mcg of alcohol in

his system. The legal limit is 35.

This week Jones, of Risdale Road, Bristol, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates where he pleaded guilty to the offence.

“What’s happened is a bit of a disaster,” said his solicitor, Michael Kelleher. “He’s a self employed

electrician and he has his own van which he takes to jobs. But all of that will now cease and he’s very unsure about his future.”

Jones was disqualified from driving for 12 months and was fined £200. He must also pay £85 court costs and an £80 surcharge.

Labour’s welfare benefits cuts slammed

pLAId leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has accused Labour First Minister Eluned Morgan of failing to stand up to Keir Starmer over planned welfare cuts that will hit Welsh families.

In a series of media briefings and interviews, Labour has suggested it plans to cut up to £5bn off the welfare bill by targeting disability benefits, including PIP, and other benefits payments.

MoRGAN REFUSES To SpEAK To STARMER ovER BENEFITS CUTS

Rhun ap Iorwerth asked the First Minister about the proposed changes in the Senedd this Tuesday, March 11.

“The First Minister can’t hide on this one. Will she muster the courage to tell Keir Starmer that enough is enough, or is she refusing to give a voice to the voiceless at a time when they need it most?”

As usual, Baroness Morgan tried to flannel her way out of the question by saying that welfare benefits had nothing to do with her government, as though that excused her from raising any concerns about them with her Labour bosses in Westminster.

Mr ap Iorwerth stuck the First Minister with her colleague Mark Drakeford’s words that: ‘a Labour government with its hands on those levers that allow you to use macroeconomic policy and the social security system for the benefit of those people who need it most.’

He continued: “I fail to understand how a Welsh First Minister cannot see the relevance to Wales of decisions taken by a UK Government of the same colour as hers on an issue as fundamental as the welfare state. If the UK Government takes away support for some of the most vulnerable people in Wales, it is up to her budget to step in to make up for that. It’s always defend, defend, defend, isn’t it? You’re defending the indefensible week after week.”

Eluned Morgan again failed to answer the question or the relevant point, reacting by deflecting instead of engaging with the substance.

WELSH GovERNMENT SHAMELESSLY KoWToWING

To STARMER

It’s scarcely any wonder that so many Labour’s Welsh MSs absent themselves from the Chamber when their putative leader is apparently unable to defend even her government’s policies and manifesto pledges in the face of Westminster’s indifference and hostility. The sheer scale of the Labour group in the Senedd’s hypocrisy after spending over a decade flaying the Conservatives for welfare cuts and intruding on devolved issues is

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

something to behold before it can be believed.

Speaking after the exchange, Rhun ap Iorwerth said: “Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said: “In refusing to criticise Starmer’s sweeping cuts to welfare not only once, but twice today, the First Minister confirms that they are content to see the most vulnerable people in Wales condemned to more financial hardship.

“This Welsh Labour Government shamelessly finds itself defending the indefensible week after week – from cuts to the winter fuel allowance to keeping the two-child cap, turning their backs on 1950s women, hiking national insurance contributions, the family farm tax, and now welfare cuts.

“Wales deserves a First Minister who will stand up to Keir Starmer and stand with the people of Wales.”

LABoUR’S pLANS WILL INCREASE Food BANK USE

on going after the disabled to help the UK government meet its fiscal rules.

CHARITIES WARN GovERNMENT ABoUT dRIvING dISABLEd INTo povERTY

The Charity Scope wrote an open letter to the UK Government.

They wrote: “Scope’s analysis of government figures shows that without PIP, a further 700,000 more disabled households could be pushed into poverty.

“Life costs more for disabled people. Huge numbers already live in poverty as a result of extra costs. The impact of any cuts to disability benefits would be devastating.

“We agree with the government’s ambition to support more disabled people into work. However, making cuts to disability benefits will not achieve this goal or fix the system.

“In fact, there is little evidence to suggest cutting benefits increases employment outcomes. We know the benefits system is broken and needs reform. That there are disabled people out of work who want to work given the right support. And for some disabled people, work isn’t appropriate. Changes to welfare must start here. Not with cuts.”

Scope is one of over a dozen charities that have written to the government, asking it to reconsider cuts to disability benefits.

When Rachel Reeves spoke to the Labour Party conference in October 2024, she said there were: “Too many people out of work through chronic illness, waiting for treatment, or without the skills, training and security they need to fulfil their potential. And a welfare state that does not always incentivise work.”

Speaking about the planned benefit cuts for disabled people, a spokesperson for The Trussell Trust said: “We agree with the UK government that disability benefits urgently need reform. But balancing the books cannot come at the expense of people already having to survive on incredibly low incomes and people with physical and mental ill health conditions.

“Our data shows that disabled people are far more likely to need support from a food bank, which likely reflects that life costs more for disabled people, with additional costs like therapies, treatments, specialist kit to help with day-to-day activities and paid care to think about on top of food, bills and toiletries.

“Welfare and disability benefit cuts risk pushing even more people to the doors of food banks. Many disabled people are terrified of the prospect of cuts to disability benefits, which are already not enough to live on.”

Nevertheless, Rachel Reeves and her Labour colleagues appear hellbent

Now that push has come to shove, Labour’s method of incentivising work is remarkably similar to that of the last government. It will not invest in skills training, security, or helping those with chronic illnesses find work as a first step. Instead, it will cut their benefits in the hope and expectation that those with chronic illnesses will be forced into work through poverty.

Bearing in mind the number of benefits claimants out of work with clinical diagnoses for mental health conditions, it very much looks like Labour is insensitive to the effects of its policies on individuals or families.

LoCAL Mp’S SILENCE

The Pembrokeshire Herald asked Henry Tufnell, the MP for Mid & South Pembrokeshire, who is committed to “using my skills to fight for a kind, caring and compassionate society where everyone is valued,” for his response to Labour ministers’ media briefings and speculation about incoming cuts to the benefits upon which many of his constituents rely.

At the time of writing, he had not replied to our request for a comment

pLAId leader Rhun ap Iorwerth

Paedophile jailed for raping two young girls over two decades

A MAN who orchestrated a campaign of rape spanning more than 20 years, abusing two young girls over 110 times, has been jailed. Ronald Richards, 66, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday (Mar 11) after his crimes were revealed when one of his victims broke down in tears years later.

The court heard harrowing details of the abuse, with prosecutor Ian Wright describing how Richards, raped his first victim at least 60 times when she was under 13 and continued the abuse when she was under 16. His second victim was raped on at least 50 occasions before she reached 13. Both victims stood in court to describe the lasting impact of their ordeals.

One victim told the court: “I can’t remember a time when I didn’t feel anxious or have a feeling of dread in my stomach. I moved away from my home town in an attempt to feel safe. I had to pretend everything was OK, but I have never really been able to be myself.”

She recalled suffering from flashbacks and suicidal thoughts, adding: “He stole my childhood and my innocence.”

The second victim said: “I don’t

actually know how to feel. I have blocked out so much. I felt like I had to do whatever he said. The most painful thing for me is looking at old photos of myself from before this happened.”

Defence barrister Ieuan Rees told the court that Richards is in poor health, suffering from diabetes and deteriorating eyesight, and acknowledged that his sentence would likely see him remain in prison for the rest of his life.

Richards was convicted of 14 offences, including multiple counts of rape of a child under 13, rape of a child under 16, sexual assault of a child, indecency with a child, and indecent assault.

Sentencing Richards to 25 years in prison—24 years of a determinate sentence plus a one-year extended term—Judge Geraint Walters told him: “You systematically abused two young children in an unspeakable way. The scars of such abuse are lifelong.”

Richards, from Port Talbot must serve two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for parole. He has also been placed on the sex offenders’ register for life and is subject to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order and restraining orders preventing him

from contacting his victims.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Joanne Williams of South Wales Police praised the victims’ bravery, telling The Pembrokeshire Herald: “To have been subjected to this level of abuse from such a young age is sickening.

“The victims will have to carry these

memories for the rest of their lives. Ronald Richards is a very dangerous man who preyed upon defenceless children.

“The level and frequency of his offending was staggering. It is right that he should go to prison for a significant amount of time.”

Man sentenced for driving four times over drink-drive limit

A 64-year-old chef has admitted driving through St Florence when he was over four times the legal drinkdrive limit.

Police were called to the village soon after 10.30 on the morning of February 22, following calls made by a member of the public who was concerned at the standard of Nigel Hunt’s driving.

“A 21-year-old woman had been following his vehicle and she became considerably concerned at the way in which he was driving,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“At one point, he was reversing backwards in the main road.”

After stopping his Transit Connect on the B4318 at Manor Park, St Florence, officers carried out a roadside breath test which proved positive. Further breath tests at the police custody suite showed that Hunt had no less than 149 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

“This is a very high reading,” concluded Sian Vaughan.

Hunt, of Greenhill, Stoops Lake, Pembroke Dock, pleaded guilty to the offence. He was legally represented in

court by solicitor, Mr Michael Kelleher.

“The defendant is self employed, and works in the hospitality sector,”

Mr Kelleher informed the magistrates. “Things aren’t going particularly well for him at the moment, and he’s been worried about his business.

“on the day of the offence he found a bottle of alcohol that was left over from Christmas, he drank it, and was then over the limit.”

Mr Kelleher’s comments were endorsed by probation officer Julie Norman.

“It was 10.30 in the morning, and

he is aware of the risks to other road users,” she saiud.

“His business hasn’t been doing too well and he’s been struggling with that and the debts that have accrued. That morning, he’d drank the alcohol, went to his business and was on his way home when he was stopped.”

Hunt was sentenced to 10 weeks in custody suspended for 12 months and must carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.

He was disqualified from driving for 36 months and ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Milford man jailed for hurling racial insults during verbal attack

A Milford man has admitted hurling a barrage of racial insults at a male, after calling him ‘a black b******’ and ‘n** n**.

Appearing via a video link from HM Parc Prison, Ben Hilton, 32, admitted carrying out the racially aggravated harassment of Mr Mikeal Campbell between February 19 and February 27, 2024.

“Work had been carried out at the victim’s property in Market Street, Haverfordwest and a dispute broke out over money and how much work had been undertaken,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“There was a break down in their working relationship, and various comments were made to the victim.

“These included ‘a dirty conman’, ‘a

dirty black b****** and a’n** n**’.

Hilton, 32, of Marble Hall Road, Milford Haven, was legally represented in court by Alaw Harries.

“No threats of violence were made, although he accepts that this was racially aggravated,” she said.

“He should not have made those comments, and he knows that.

“But the defendant was frustrated as he believed the victim owned him money for work. However some level of distress was caused to the victim.”

Alaw Harries said that Hilton is currently serving a custodial sentence following a previous conviction in July 2024.

“Since then, he’s made significant progress in custody and is in a stable environment where he can address his issues,” she said.

“He’s been working as a cleaner and has been doing educational work in English and maths.”

Hilton was sentenced to nine weeks in custody. He was ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Dog attack sparks police probe and online debate

A vIoLENT dog attack in pembroke dock town centre on Tuesday (March 11) has led to a police investigation and a heated online debate over the fate of the attacking dog.

The incident took place in broad daylight on Dimond Street, where Bailey, a golden retriever, was attacked by another dog. A video circulating on Facebook shows a white dog pinning Bailey down, while two young males struggle to pull it away—one striking the dog and the other attempting to kick it off.

Bailey suffered multiple wounds, including a deep ear injury requiring a staple. His owner, Julie Jenkins, posted an urgent appeal on Facebook, asking for help in identifying the dog and its owner. She expressed her frustration, stating:

“My dog got attacked today in Pembroke Dock with bad injuries! If anyone knows who these two boys and dog are, please get in touch!!! I will do my very best to get this dog put down ASAP!!! If this had been a child, god help.”

However, Mikey Newman, who claims to be the owner of the dog involved, has responded online, insisting that the attack was an accident and that his dog, Bobo, is a rescue dog still in training. He stated that Bobo escaped from his yard unintentionally and was not being walked

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

off-lead. Newman also apologized for the incident, offered to cover any vet bills, and has been trying to contact Jenkins.

“I had no idea this video was circulating or that the owners were searching for me. If you know Julie Jenkins, please share this and let her know I’ve been attempting to get in touch.”

The incident has divided opinion online, with some calling for action against dangerous dogs, while others argue that Bobo should not be put down. Debra Watts, another commenter, criticised the backlash, saying:

“Calling for me and my dog to be put down? They have 0 context and are reacting aggressively in the comments. This was an accident.”

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed they received a report of the attack at around 5:15pm. Officers are continuing their enquiries, and no people were injured in the incident.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a dog-on-dog attack on Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock at around 5.15pm on Tuesday 11 March.

“No person was injured during the attack. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Man jailed for six years after hiding cocaine in police car

A MILF o R d HAv EN man has been jailed for six years after attempting to hide nearly 50 grams of cocaine under the seat of a police car after he was arrested.

Shaun Clawson, age 39, had been travelling as a passenger in a Seat Leon car on February 1, when officers stopped the vehicle on the A40 near St Clears.

Clawson was found with a phone, a cling film wrap and spoon containing traces of white powder in the footwell where he had been sitting.

After being arrested, police in-car camera footage showed Clawson

removing a cling-film wrap from the back of his trousers and dropping it on the floor of the car while being conveyed to custody.

The wrap contained an approximate 48.5g of crack cocaine worth an estimated £4,850.

Clawson pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine at Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. He was sentenced to six years imprisonment.

Three other suspects were also arrested at the scene for possession with intent to supply a class A drug and have been bailed pending further

enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Vinny Barrett, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “This sentence should serve as a warning to anybody considering engaging in the supply of illegal drugs that Dyfed-Powys Police will not tolerate the supply of class A drugs into our communities. We will seek to relentlessly target those who engage in the supply of illegal substances.”

To report anything suspicious or concerns about the selling and taking of drugs in the community contact Dyfed-Powys Police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline,

by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.pnn. police.uk, or by calling 101.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the nonemergency number on 07811 311 908101.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

To seek advice and support, visit https://barod.cymru/where-to-gethelp/west-wales-services/ddasdyfed-drug-and-alcohol-service/

Man accused of repeated assaults on partner to face Crown Court

A Haverfordwest man has appeared before magisrates accused of assaulting his partner on four separate occasions and intentionally strangulating her over a three-month period.

This week James Jeffreys, 41, was brought before Haverfordwest magistrates after being remanded in custody following allegations of carrying out four assaults causing actual bodily harm on Stacey Davies. He is further charged with causing her intentional strangulation between January and March, and of causing criminal damage to her mobile phone. Jeffreys, of College Court, Hill Street,

Haverfordwest, denies all six charges.

“Matters culminated on March 8 when the assault was heard by the complainant’s mother and son on the phone,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan.

“They intervened and saw that the complainant had been injured.”

The Crown claims that Ms Davies’ injuries included a bleeding nose, badly bruised arms and injuries to her back, while a glass containing alcohol had been thrown over her.

A victim impact statement was read out to magistrates.

“It makes me feel as if this is normal, but I know it’s not,” Stacey Davies.

“It’s left me feeling emotionless. I just want him to leave me alone.”

“This is clearly a very vulnerable individual, but she now has the courage to come forward,” concluded Prosecutor, Sian Vaughan.

James Jeffreys denies each of the six allegations.

“The relationship isn’t working because she’s drinking to excess and is saying things to the police which simply aren’t true,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd.

“These are extremely serious allegations, but the defendant says it’s all nonsense. None of it is true.”

Given the seriousness of the

allegations, magistrates declined jurisdiction; Jeffrey’s trial proceedings will now commence at Swansea Crown Court on April 11.

An application to remand the defendant in custody pending his Crown Court trial was refused by magistrates and he was released on conditional bail. The conditions are that he has no direct or indirect contact with Stacey Davies; he does not enter North Court, Haverfordwest; he observes a daily doorstep curfew between 7 pm and 7 am and he lives and sleeps at his home address at College Court, Hill Street, Haverfordwest.

John Cooper appeal file still under review

THE CRIMINAL CASES REvIEW COMMISSION has confirmed that its review of John Cooper’s convictions remains ongoing, with no fixed timeline for a decision. The process, described as extensive due to the volume of evidence and the potential need for expert analysis, is expected to continue well into 2025, with an update likely in october.

Cooper, who is serving a life sentence for the murders of Richard and Helen Thomas in 1985 and Peter and Gwenda Dixon in 1989, applied to the CCRC last year for a review of his convictions. Unlike many applications, which are dismissed early, Cooper’s case has progressed further than most, with dedicated case workers assigned—suggesting it is being taken seriously.

A spokesperson for the CCRC told The Herald on Monday (Mar 10): “Reviews can often be extensive, particularly when there is a lot of evidence to analyse; if we need to consider new case law or instruct scientific experts. A more complicated review can take many months, or even years.”

Sources close to the matter indicate that Cooper’s application, which exceeds 1,000 pages, is well-researched and has met the threshold for further scrutiny. While the CCRC operates under strict resource constraints, it is understood that this case is receiving significant attention.

Despite the high-profile nature of Cooper’s original trial, particularly following the ITV drama The Pembrokeshire Murders, the CCRC review has received little media coverage so far.

Cooper has always maintained his innocence, though previous appeals have failed.

If the CCRC ultimately refers his case to the Court of Appeal, it would be a significant legal development.

When approached for comment, Dyfed-Powys Police told The Herald: “We will comply with our obligations in any judicial process, but consider it inappropriate to provide specific comments at this time.”

The CCRC plays a crucial role in determining whether there are any anomalies in Cooper’s conviction or sentencing. If any are identified, the case will be referred to the Court of Appeal. Cooper’s case gained national attention partly due to its dramatization in the ITV series The Pembrokeshire Murders, which highlighted his appearance on the TV game show Bullseye—a crucial yet circumstantial piece of evidence in his conviction.

At his 2011 trial, Justice John Griffith Williams sentenced Cooper to life imprisonment, describing him as a “very dangerous man” whose conviction relied heavily on advances in forensic science.

As readers may recall, The Pembrokeshire Herald previously uncovered significant concerns about the handling of forensic evidence in Cooper’s

case. An investigation by this newspaper revealed a series of procedural failings, including missing or incomplete exhibit logs, the mixing of different evidence samples, and a previously unreported flood in the storage area where forensic materials were kept.

Documents obtained by The Herald suggested that some forensic exhibits were not properly logged at key stages of the investigation, raising concerns about gaps in the chain of custody.

The absence of complete records makes it difficult to determine whether all items were handled and stored correctly, an issue that is particularly significant in cases where forensic evidence plays a central role in securing a conviction.

The mixing of evidence samples was another area of concern. It was found that items from different cases had been stored together, a practice that increases the risk of cross-contamination. The potential for DNA transfer between exhibits, particularly when stored in close proximity, is well-documented in forensic science. Any such contamination could have serious implications for the reliability

of the evidence used to convict Cooper.

Perhaps most troubling was the discovery of a flooding incident in the forensic storage facility. The flood, which had not been disclosed in court or in any official reports at the time, raised concerns about whether water damage may have compromised key exhibits. The extent of any damage and whether steps were taken to mitigate the risk of evidence degradation remain unclear. The possibility that critical forensic materials were exposed to moisture, mould, or other contaminants could be a crucial issue for the CCRC to consider.

Despite these concerns, the forensic evidence presented by the Crown was substantial and was not challenged during Cooper’s unsuccessful 2012 appeal. However, advances in DNA testing and forensic methodologies since his trial may now allow for more sophisticated analysis of key exhibits. If the CCRC determines that new scientific techniques could yield different results, this may influence its decision on whether the case should be referred to the Court of Appeal.

Statistically, Cooper faces an uphill battle. Between April 1997 and February 2023, the CCRC received 29,845 applications but referred only 811 cases to an appeal court.

However, if his case does reach the appeal stage, historical data suggests a roughly 70 percent chance of a successful challenge.

Chloe Handling from the CCRC press office confirmed to The Pembrokeshire Herald previously: “I can confirm we have received two applications for John Cooper.”

“However, we won’t be able to comment any further while the review is underway.”

With no fixed timeline for completion, Cooper’s case remains under detailed review.

The Herald will continue to follow developments and provide updates as they emerge.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Welsh Labour whips MSs to oppose Welsh Government policy

WELSH politics is a lookingglass world. There is a Labour Government in Cardiff Bay held in such contempt by Welsh constituency Labour Mps that its policies are dismissed as “for the birds”. Even bearing that in mind, Wednesday, March 12, was a day in the Senedd that went from the bizarre to the surreal.

GETTING WALES A FAIR SHARE

Plaid called a debate on transport funding. Their motion called on the Welsh Government to confirm its position that Wales should receive the resultant consequentials in line with figures quoted by current UK Government Ministers when in opposition. It also asked for the Welsh Government to write to the UK Secretary of State for Transport to ask for the full consequentials to be made available to Wales.

The “consequentials” referred to are the £4.2bn that the Labour Government in Wales and Labour MPs and ministers in Westminster called for from the Conservative government. The Conservative government under David Cameron designated HS2 an England and Wales project despite the fact that not one centimetre of track or one cubic metre of concrete would be in Wales. Scotland received funding as a result of the project’s cost. Wales did not.

The pursuit of funding for Wales as a result of HS2 is uncontroversial in the Welsh Parliament. EVERY party, including the Conservatives, have consistently called for the funding to

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

come to Wales for years. It is Welsh Government policy.

In those circumstances, Plaid’s motion calling for the Welsh Government to stand by its policy and write to the Secretary of State for Transport should have been uncontroversial. All those Labour MSs who spent years talking about how the Tories had robbed Wales of funding on a transparent ruse would surely line up to demand that their Labour comrades do likewise.

THE WoRLd oF UNREASoN

Alas, on Wednesday, March 12, things took a turn so surreal that a visitor from a country taking the first steps towards democracy might well have turned around after watching what unfolded and begged for the return of a repressive dictatorship in their nation.

Instead, Labour Minister Jane Hutt filed an amendment to Plaid Cymru’s motion that deleted any reference to HS2 funding and instead thanked Westminster for not nuking Cardiff. That last might be an exaggeration, but not much of one.

As the debate unfolded, our fictional visitor from a foreign land would’ve been forgiven if they’d spent a long time looking for the hidden camera and the gotcha reveal.

Labour MS after Labour MS stood up and pilloried the last Conservative government for failing to fund transport infrastructure in Wales adequately.

Labour after Labour MS stood up and praised their Labour counterparts in Westminster for notionally increasing funding for transport infrastructure in Wales. All those Labour MSs conspicuously failed to support the Welsh government’s policy that Wales should get full consequential funding from HS2. Of course, they’d all like to have it, but now there is a Labour government at the other end of the M4, it doesn’t matter to them. Or, if it does, those speaking from the Labour benches in the debate are hypocrites whose previous call for funding was grandstanding duplicity.

We had the bizarre experience of watching Welsh Labour MSs barracking Welsh Conservative MSs during the latter’s speeches, calling for nothing more than the Welsh Labour government to follow its policy. And also to write a formal letter to the Labour Westminster government repeating its previous calls for equitable treatment.

As virtually all Labour MSs represent constituencies within the South Wales Metro area, a project already well underway and scheduled for completion relatively soon, it came as no surprise that they mentioned that project. Somehow, none of them mentioned that Westminster’s funding for it via funding to Cardiff Bay long predated July 4, 2024.

Outside South Wales, they were not much interested.

There wasn’t as much as lip service to rural Wales’s transport needs. Instead, Labour MSs mentioned “a pipeline of projects”, most of which are not advanced beyond the bluesky-thinking stage.

doddS’ doWNBEAT CoNTRIBUTIoN SHINES

Plaid’s contributions were not much better. Instead of a laser focus on HS2 funding, their motion gave Labour members a chance to chip away at comparatively small beer in financial terms. “Who needs £4.2bn when we’ve been told we’ll get £34m for Labour constituencies?”

Two factors hamstrung the Conservatives’ contributions. First, none of their best performers spoke in the debate. Second, the last Conservative government not only ignored their calls over HS2 funding but also made unfunded pledges for rail infrastructure in Wales.

It took the Welsh Parliament’s sole Liberal Democrat to point out the fatuousness of Labour MSs’ posturing conduct and the Welsh government’s abuse of the amendment system.

Jane Dodds said: “This is really quite depressing for two reasons. One is that those two parties just want to tear chunks out of each other for not doing what the other one thinks they should be doing. And the second reason—and I am very frustrated with the Welsh Government—is the ‘delete all’ that you’ve put on the motion.

“I challenge every single one of you here just to reread what the motion calls for. With the greatest of respect to my Labour colleagues, let’s remind ourselves. Do tell me what you disagree with here.

“It ‘calls on the Welsh Government to provide updated figures on the shortfall in rail enhancement investment in Wales’. What’s wrong with that? “Secondly [it asks the Welsh Government to] ‘confirm its position that HS2 should be redesignated as an England-only project and that Wales should receive the resultant consequentials in line with figures quoted by current UK Government Ministers when in opposition’.

“What’s wrong with that?

“And thirdly: ‘write to the UK Secretary of State for Transport to ask for the full consequentials to be made available to Wales and reversal of low levels of enhancement spending.’

“That is the focus and the ask of this debate. We all accept that services could be better elsewhere, in ‘where I live’ or whatever, but it’s not about that. I feel these Wednesday afternoon debates are really the opposition parties putting down a motion and the Welsh Government saying ‘delete all’, and it feels like on this occasion just for the point of

doing it.”

Her reward for a thoughtful intervention was another interruption from Alun Davies MS. This time, Mr Davies pointed out Ms Dodds’s Liberal Democrat colleague was transport minister in the coalition when HS2 was designated for England and Wales.

As whataboutery goes, it’s hard to beat. It is for Mr Davies to explain

how what a Liberal Democrat MP did a dozen or more years ago was relevant to the terms of Wednesday’s debate and why the promises made by Labour in Westminster while it was in opposition no longer bind it.

Perhaps Labour MPs in Westminster are as hypocritical and as guilty of grandstanding as their Cardiff Bay counterparts.

SKATES SpEECH BEYoNd pARodY

One thing neither Alun Davies nor any other Labour MS addressed was the substance of what Jane Dodds said. They couldn’t explain what they opposed in the motion or elucidate any points of disagreement. Labour

filed their “delete all” amendment and opposed the motion not because they opposed it or disagreed with it but because they’d been told to oppose it and disagree with it.

Transport Minister Ken Skates’s response to the debate was so risible that he ended up talking about Plaid’s policy on Welsh independence instead of the motion before the Chamber. Mr Skates fatuously stated that it was a good job Wales wasn’t independent because then there’d be no question of funding from Westminster, let alone HS2 funding.

At that point, our foreign visitor was on the plane back to their homeland, plotting to burn down polling stations before the disease spread.

Heledd Fychan, for Plaid, tried in vain to get the Transport Minister to stick to the motion’s point. It proved beyond Mr Skates. She may as well have tried nailing jelly to a wall.

As Labour members unanimously voted against doing something that reflects Welsh government policy, all that was missing was a Terry Gilliam animation and the closing credits to Eluned Morgan’s Flying Circus.

This is how devolution ends, not with a bang but to the strains of The Liberty Bell March.

Pembrokeshire among cheapest councils for bulky waste collection

SpRING cleaning is in full swing as searches for decluttering peak on March 20, with many households looking to dispose of unwanted furniture and large items. However, new research has revealed that the cost of bulky waste collection varies significantly across Wales.

According to a study by Cardiffbased waste management experts BusinessWaste.co.uk, Ceredigion County Council has the highest bulky waste charges in Wales, with a minimum collection fee of £61. This fee covers up to six items, with an additional charge of £61 for a further six items.

At the other end of the scale, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council offers the lowest minimum charge at just £6.70.

WHERE doES pEMBRoKESHIRE RANK?

Pembrokeshire County Council ranks 17th out of 22 Welsh councils in terms of bulky waste charges, making it one of the more affordable options. The council charges £21.30, covering up to ten items per collection—more items than most councils in Wales.

Despite the relatively low cost, Pembrokeshire does not offer any discounts or concessions for those on benefits, pension credits, or other financial support schemes. However, fridge collection is included at no additional cost.

HoW do oTHER CoUNCILS CoMpARE?

The study ranked the top ten most expensive councils in Wales, with

Unprovoked argument between brother and sister ends up in court

An unprovoked argument between a brother and sister has resulted in a court sentence for Ricky price after he pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to his sister’s car and causing threatening, abusive or insulting words and behaviour with intent to cause her fear.

The argument broke out on November 24, 2024 when Price, 27, became aware of his sister moving backwards and forwards outside his caravan situated on Kilgetty roundabout in Begelly.

“Ricky Price was at home in the caravan with his mother, while his sister, Sophie Price, lived in a separate caravan at the same location,” probation officer Julie Norman told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

Ms Norman went on to say that the defendant suffers from mental health issues, including psychosis and emotional disability disorder.

“He was experiencing a dip in his mood, and as his sister was walking back and forth to his caravan, he went outside and there was an argument between them,” she said.

“But Ricky Price has never troubled the court before and he’s very remorseful for the incident. He didn’t mean to cause his sister any distress and there were no alcohol nor drug issues involved. It was all because of his emotional wellbeing.”

During the altercation, Price damaged his sister’s car, however details and the cost of the damage were not presented to the court.

Price was sentenced to a 12-month community order during which he must carry out ten rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was fined £40 and ordered to pay a £114 court surcharge, £85 costs and £50 compensation to his sister.

Ceredigion leading, followed by Wrexham (£57.50) and the Isle of Anglesey (£46). At the opposite end, Cardiff has one of the lowest rates (£12.50), while Carmarthenshire sits in 13th place with a charge of £25.

WALES vERSUS THE UK

On a national level, Wales has the sixth highest average bulky waste collection charge at £29.84. The South East of

England is the most expensive region, with an average charge of £44.81, while Northern Ireland is the cheapest, averaging just £5.97.

KEY FINdINGS FRoM THE REpoRT:

• No Welsh councils offer a free collection service.

• Pembrokeshire’s ranking in the UK is 256th out of 382 councils, placing it in the bottom 33% for bulky waste charges.

• Fridge collections are free across all Welsh councils.

• Carmarthenshire ranks 227th in the UK, with a £25 charge covering up to three items.

A spokesperson for BusinessWaste. co.uk said: “Bulky waste collection is a vital service for households looking to dispose of large items responsibly, but the costs vary widely across the UK. While some councils offer reasonable rates, others charge significantly higher fees, which can deter responsible waste disposal.”

For the full report, visit: www. businesswaste.co.uk.

Withyhedge site monitoring cost the council £170,000

pEMBRoKESHIRE County Council’s monitoring of the controversial Withyhedge landfill site and unsuccessful legal challenge cost it nearly £170,000, councillors heard.

Last October, Pembrokeshire County Council went to court to seek an interim injunction against operators RML after asking it to give a legally binding undertaking to stop the odour coming from Withyhedge Landfill, near Haverfordwest.

The legal action came after months of residents complaining of foul odours and potentially harmful gasses coming from the landfill site.

A circuit judge found that the tip was causing nuisance, but believed that the council had gone about its application in the wrong way, refusing to grant an interim injunction.

The authority’s legal counsel had recommended the council appeal that decision, but this was not done due to costs involved and the situation at the tip had improved.

A report, presented by Cabinet member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett at Pembrokeshire County Council’s March 6 meeting, said: “Although our legal counsel did not believe this decision was correct

and recommended an appeal, the Authority was in a difficult position when considering the costs of appealing and the costs outlay already incurred for taking the court action, as well as the provision of independent air quality monitoring and officer time dealing with this issue.

“This was due to the potential financial exposure considered against the fact that a marked improvement in

the situation has been noted. We would like to stress that it is firmly believed that the legal pressure the council had placed on the operator in the period from April to October 2024 had a significant impact on the efforts and pace of the remedial works undertaken by the operator.

“Legal costs were ordered to be paid by the Authority in the sum of £169,110.87, although the actual sum was reduced by agreement to £100,000.”

The report also detailed other

financial implications for the council: “Costs for air quality monitoring, legal and ancillary costs for translation of reports and some staff overtime in out of hours monitoring total £166,544 [to date]. This figure includes the additional static monitoring until 31 March 2025.”

Members heard that complaint numbers to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and PCC have been low since early January 2025 when waste tipping started again, other than a peak in midJanuary from a Ricardo static monitor located at Spittal School, but were “not considered to be emanating from the landfill site,” with site inspections “indicating that the operator is following revised waste acceptance procedures which have previously been reviewed and accepted by NRW”.

Funding from Pembrokeshire County Council and Natural Resources Wales has been secured to allow the air quality monitoring via the static monitor at Spittal School to continue until March 31, but would cost £57,215 for an extra year, members heard.

Members agreed to note the report and to continue the air quality monitoring at Spittal school, reviewed on a quarterly basis, dependent on air quality results and the level of community odour complaints received.

Man facing charges of rape and sexual assault

A CARMARTHENSHIRE man has appeared in court accused of multiple serious offences, including rape and controlling behaviour, with the case now being sent to Swansea Crown Court.

Phillip Evans, 74, of Derwent Street, Llanelli, appeared before his local magistrates’ court on Tuesday (Mar 12) facing three charges: rape, sexual assault, and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship.

The court heard that Evans is accused of raping a female over the age of 16 at an address in Llanelli between October 31, 2022, and December 28, 2022.

A second charge alleges that during the same period, he sexually assaulted the same woman by penetration without her consent.

A further charge states that between September 1, 2022, and December 28, 2022, Evans engaged in controlling and coercive behaviour

towards his former partner, knowing his actions would have a serious effect on her.

Evans did not enter pleas to the charges during the hearing.

The magistrates declined jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the allegations and sent the case to Swansea Crown Court under Section 51 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

He was granted unconditional bail and is scheduled to appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Swansea Crown Court on April 4 at 9:30am.

Due to legal restrictions under the Sexual Offences Amendment Act 1992, the identity of the complainant is protected.

The case was heard by magistrates Mrs A Milward, Ms M Radford, and Mrs C Jones, with Sian Vaughan prosecuting on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Concern at ‘bullying’ reports in Pembrokeshire fire service

p EMBR o KESHIRE’S leader is to meet with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service after a recent review said there was a “bullying culture” in the service.

A recent jointly commissioned Independent Cultural Review, facilitated by Crest Advisory found several serious widespread concerns being reported by staff including discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment.

Senior staff at the service have said that they will now be looking to implement the recommendations of the report.

At the March 6 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, a submitted question by Cllr Alistair Cameron asked: “On February 5, Crest Advisory published their Independent Culture Review into Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

“The review was highly critical and included the following statements in its conclusion.”

Cllr Cameron’s question quoted the report: “Our findings revealed that MAWWFRS is divided along grey book (operational vs green book (support and corporate), gender and rank with a formal hierarchy fostering mistrust, disconnection, and a culture of fear and conformity, stifling open dialogue and innovation.

“Staff raised cultural issues including leadership failures, outdated management practices, and inadequate staff support across our engagement.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

“These issues perpetuated inefficiencies, lowered staff morale and increased inequalities.

“High levels of bullying and harassment, a fear of retaliation and ostracism hampering confidence in reporting, and a lack of confidence on action from senior leaders, reflect a bullying culture at MAWWFRS.

“A resistance to change, particularly at the executive level, and rooted in a structure that prioritises operational firefighting over broader public safety roles, hindered attempts at positive cultural change.

“MAWWFRS must undergo transformative reforms, modernising its culture and structure to align with contemporary public safety priorities, addressing systematic issues, and rebuilding trust through decisive, bold and inclusive action.”

He added: “Whilst MAWWFRS is to be commended for commissioning this work, could the Leader of the council seek an urgent meeting between the Chief Fire Officer and council so that he can explain what measures have been put in place to address these serious issues?”

Responding, Leader Cllr Jon Harvey said: “I fully share the concerns of the findings in certain cultural aspects of MAWWFRS and am aware work has already started.

“I’ve already had a response back from the fire service with a meeting

scheduled for March 20.”

Cllr Cameron welcomed the Leader’s response, highlighting the review’s highly critical view of a “bullying culture,” adding: “The only positive thing is the fire service did request this report.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service Fire Authority Chair Councillor Gwynfor Thomas has previously said: “Members of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue

Authority are saddened to read the findings of the independent culture review of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

“We are humbled by people’s courage in giving open, honest and challenging feedback, and it is with thanks to those who contributed that we can see the urgency with which we must act to tackle poor culture and behaviour where it exists.”

Milford Haven man accused of coercive control and suffocation

MILFoRd HAvEN man Christen Booth, 30, has been accused of coercive control and intentional suffocation.

Booth, of Cleddau House, Hakin, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on February 21, charged with engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship. It is alleged that he exerted domesticrelated control over a woman between July 31 last year and February 20.

He also faces a charge of intentional

suffocation, accused of suffocating the same woman on February 20.

The prosecution is being led by CPS Wales (South West), with Ann Griffiths representing the Crown. The case was heard before Magistrates Mr M Gower and Mr E Jones.

Booth, who was represented by defence solicitor Jess Smith, was remanded in custody, and the case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court for trial. He is set to enter his pleas on March 24.

Children as young as 11 targeted by sextortion criminals

CHILdREN as young as 11 are being targeted by online sextortion gangs for the first time, experts have warned.

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has described the trend as “deeply concerning” and said criminals are widening their efforts to trap young victims.

Sextortion is a form of blackmail where victims – often teenage boys, though cases involving girls are rising –are tricked into sending explicit images to fraudsters who contact them via social media and messaging platforms. The criminals then demand money, threatening to distribute the images if their demands are not met.

The IWF reported five confirmed cases last year involving victims aged 11 to 13, out of 175 total cases involving children under 17. While the total was slightly lower than the previous year’s 176, experts say the threat remains serious.

‘CHILdREN AS YoUNG AS EIGHT TARGETEd’

Last month, parents at a primary school were urged to check their children’s devices after an eight-yearold girl was reportedly targeted in a sextortion scam.

The school warned that an individual had been impersonating pupils on Snapchat, and police confirmed that an investigation was underway after multiple reports of indecent images

being shared.

Tamsin McNally, IWF’s hotline manager, said the organisation had observed a disturbing new tactic used by criminals.

“They are now not only threatening to share images but also making it appear as if the victim is responsible for a sexual crime. This adds an extraordinary level of pressure, making victims more likely to comply with demands,” she said.

SExToRTIoN CASES REpoRTEd IN WALES

South Wales Police reported a rise in sextortion cases in 2024, with victims being blackmailed into paying money to prevent explicit images from being shared. Criminals often impersonated acquaintances on social media to manipulate individuals into sending intimate content.

The National Crime Agency also issued an alert to schools across Wales, warning of an increase in financially motivated sextortion targeting children and young people. Organised crime groups were identified as a key driver behind these scams, coercing victims into sending images before demanding payments under threat of exposure.

North Wales Police have since provided guidance on responding to sextortion attempts, urging victims not to comply with demands and to report incidents immediately.

oNLINE BLACKMAIL GANGS opERATE GLoBALLY

The National Crime Agency (NCA) has previously warned that international cybercriminals are running sextortion scams from abroad, with West Africa and Nigeria identified as hotspots for these criminal networks.

Experts believe many children remain unaware that they can remove intimate images from the internet through a dedicated service designed to help victims. The ‘Report Remove’ tool, operated by the IWF and the NSPCC, allows children to anonymously flag explicit content so that tech platforms can take it down or prevent it from being uploaded.

In 2024, usage of the Report Remove tool surged, with 1,142

reports processed – a 44% increase from the previous year. Nearly half of the cases involved victims aged 14 to 15, while 151 of the 175 sextortion cases reported last year came through the tool.

One parent, speaking anonymously, said the service had been a “gamechanger” after their 16-year-old son was targeted by a sextortion gang.

Derek Ray-Hill, interim chief executive of the IWF, said: “These figures show just how ruthless offenders are in targeting our children. There has never been a greater need for services like Report Remove to protect young people from exploitation.”

Parents and children are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspected sextortion attempts to police and online safety organisations.

Community comes together for Big Haverfordwest Litter Pick

HAvERFoRdWEST residents joined forces to clean up the town in a community-driven litter pick organised by Haverfordwest Town Council, HaverHub, and Haverfordwest Heritage.

The event, which saw volunteers collecting rubbish to improve the town’s appearance, was attended by County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who represents the Castle Ward on Pembrokeshire County Council.

Cllr Tudor said: “It was lovely to participate in and help with the Big Haverfordwest Litter Pick. I’d like to thank everyone who attended today—this will be the first of many similar initiatives for Haverfordwest, the County Town of Pembrokeshire.”

The initiative is expected to become a regular event to maintain cleanliness and encourage civic pride.

Cawl competition celebrates International Women’s Day in Pembroke

pEMBRoKE marked International Women’s day on Saturday (Mar 8) with a successful cawl competition, bringing the community together to celebrate and support local women.

The event, organised by Pembroke Town Team, saw participants enjoy a variety of cawl, including vegetarian and vegan options, from Gio Recchia Pizza Contemporanea, Watermans Arms, Buddy’s Baked, and Will’s of Pembroke.

A key highlight was the inspiring speeches from local women who play a vital role in the community. Information stalls were also present, with groups such as New Pembrokeshire Pride, Pembroke Street Pastors, and Lamphey WI sharing resources and support.

Local businesswomen showcased

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their products, offering visitors the chance to browse and buy from a range of stalls.

The event was made possible thanks to a donation from Pembrokeshire Women, which organisers said played a crucial role in ensuring the day’s success. Volunteers, including Lisa Boswell, Angela Marston Halifax, Rhian Cowen, Ness Moseley, Ann Mortenson, and Tegan, worked tirelessly to keep things running smoothly, with Lewis George stepping up as compere.

Organisers thanked all those who attended, saying the support from the community made the event truly special.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

New owners reopen The Vibe in Milford Haven

MILFoRd HAvEN’S popular pub and restaurant, The vibe, is reopening under new management on Monday (Mar 10), bringing a fresh start to Charles Street’s hospitality scene.

The new team behind The Vibe has worked around the clock to transform the venue in just six days, ensuring it is ready to welcome customers once again. The revamped pub and restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with extended opening hours throughout the week.

The new owner, who has taken on the venture as their first business, expressed gratitude to Sharon Matthews, chef at The Bull Inn in Haverfordwest, and owners Randy and Lori Bennett, whose support made the reopening possible.

Speaking ahead of the launch, they said: “We have had some of the best lads working day and night—there’s been sweat, tears, laughter, and even a few arguments! But we pulled it off and can’t wait to welcome everyone back.”

They also paid tribute to former owner Kerryanne, promising to maintain the pub’s name and spirit: “One thing I promised Kerryanne was to keep the name, and that will remain. We just want to give it back the love she had for the place.”

The Vibe’s new opening hours are:

Monday to Friday: 9:00am –11:00pm Saturday: 9:00am – 12:30am Sunday: 10:00am – 11:00pm Breakfast: 9:00am – 11:00am Lunch: 12:00pm – 4:00pm Dinner: 5:00pm – 9:00pm

With a new menu featuring fresh, homemade dishes— including a highly praised lasagne—The Vibe’s new owners are confident customers won’t be disappointed.

They added: “You won’t need a bank loan to be wined and dined here—we’re offering great food at affordable prices.”

The doors officially open at 9:00am on Monday (Mar 10) for breakfast, marking the beginning of a new chapter for The Vibe and Milford Haven’s dining scene.

Sub-postmaster caught in Horizon scandal offered fraction of claim

A FoRMER sub-postmaster from Roch, pembrokeshire, who was wrongly prosecuted in the Horizon IT scandal, has said he was left “in disbelief” after being offered less than 17% of his compensation claim. Tim Brentnall was prosecuted in 2010 for false accounting after a £22,500 shortfall was identified at his branch. In 2021, his conviction was overturned, and he submitted a claim for full financial redress to the Post Office last August. Four months later, in December, he received a response that he described as “litigation all over again.”

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Speaking to the BBC, Mr Brentnall said: “[I was] just in disbelief. What I prepared myself for and what came were two totally different things. It very much reminded me of receiving a summons to court from the Post Office the first time around.”

LEGAL BATTLE CoNTINUES

Mr Brentnall, who had his claim prepared by lawyers and forensic

accountants, said his offer was significantly lower than expected. “We haven’t picked these figures out of the air,” he added.

He is one of 736 former subpostmasters who were prosecuted due to faults in the Horizon computer system. His response from the Post Office came in a 50-page letter dismissing much of his claim, along with nearly 15,000 supporting documents that he has spent the past three months reviewing for re-submission.

“You sit down and get to a number or percentage where you think, ‘well, that’s enough for me to walk away and draw a line under it.’ But what I was offered was nowhere near that.”

vICTIMS STILL WAITING

Mr Brentnall highlighted the case of Terry Walters, a fellow former subpostmaster who died in February without receiving full financial redress, despite submitting his claim more than a year ago.

“I’m 43, I can afford to wait,” he said. “But there are so many people much older than me who should be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the years they’ve got left. Instead, they’re still fighting.”

He criticised the slow pace of compensation payments, pointing out that the UK government was able to act swiftly when public opinion demanded it. “Surely they can do something, because people are dying, and it’s not fair.”

A dEvASTATING IMpACT

Mr Brentnall and his parents had

bought the shop in Roch when he was 22, hoping to secure a future in the community where he grew up. That future was shattered in 2009 when auditors found a discrepancy and he was suspended before being taken to Haverfordwest police station for questioning.

“It was horrific. I felt totally alone and helpless. Even though I knew I hadn’t taken any money, my parents were desperate to make up the missing funds, so they took out a loan to cover the supposed debt. Then I was prosecuted anyway.”

His conviction meant he was given an 18-month suspended sentence and 200 hours of community service. “It wiped out any savings my parents had, the business we had, and cost me any future employment for the last 15 years.”

In 2021, his conviction was finally overturned, and he gave evidence to the Post Office inquiry the following year.

GovERNMENT STEpS IN

On Monday, the UK government confirmed it would take over responsibility for the Overturned Convictions Scheme, which compensates those who have had their convictions quashed.

A spokesperson for the Post Office said more than £768m had been paid to 5,100 people affected by the scandal, adding: “We continue to listen to feedback to make improvements to the redress process for those affected.”

However, for Mr Brentnall and many others, the fight for fair compensation continues.

Caldey Island mourns loss of beloved long-time resident

CALdEY ISLANd is in mourning following the passing of its oldest resident, Rita Cunningham, at the age of 95. A well-known and muchloved figure, Rita had called the monastic island home for over four decades, leaving a lasting impact on both the island’s community and its many visitors.

Originally from Liverpool, Rita led a fascinating and varied life. She spent time as a Carmelite nun at Bridell Carmel before moving into a completely different sphere, working as an IT manager for a paper manufacturing company in Cardiff. However, it was on Caldey Island where she truly found her place, dedicating herself to numerous roles that helped sustain and enrich island life.

Rita played a key part in maintaining the island’s infrastructure, assisting with everything from building repairs and water monitoring to running St Philomena’s guesthouse. She was also involved in the production of Caldey’s famous perfume and honey. A talented

musician, she took great pleasure in teaching piano to the island’s younger residents and served as the church organist for many years.

Father Jan Rossey, the Abbot of Caldey Abbey, paid tribute to her unwavering presence and devotion.

“Rita was a faithful member of the island community, a reassuring figure throughout my time here. She attended Mass daily, regardless of the weather, and her contributions to our church and community will never be forgotten. We will miss her greatly.”

Known for her warmth and sociability, Rita embraced the tranquil island lifestyle but was always keen to share a chat and a story with islanders and visitors alike. Many fondly remember her sitting outside the Post Office, engaging visitors with anecdotes, her sharp wit, and a sparkle in her eye. She also had strong connections with the nearby town of Tenby, where she was always warmly received during her visits.

One of her most iconic roles on

Caldey was assisting visitors with their luggage, transporting bags to and from the boats on her trusty mini-tractor. Her willingness to lend a hand, coupled with her kind-hearted nature, earned her deep affection from all who met her.

Last November, Rita marked her 95th birthday, receiving messages and well wishes from across the world— an indication of howmuch she was

cherished.

Caldey Island announced her passing on March 6, and plans are underway for her funeral to take place on the island. Further details will be shared in due course.

Rita Cunningham’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her contributions to island life will not be forgotten.

Pembs child joins Dragons Den team in conquering disability misconceptions

WILSoN Mills-McBeth is one enchanting child.

His face has already earned him a contract with the inclusive modelling agency Zebedee UK, while his mission in life is to throw himself wholeheartedly into absolutely everything that comes his way. And if this means having to overcome a particularly difficult challenge, the invincible eight-year-old will storm onwards with a passion and unquenchable zest for life that defines his character so distinctly.

But what makes Wilson’s achievements even more laudable is the fact that he has Down Syndrome.

This month Wilson, who lives in Saundersfoot, has been selected by Dragon Den victors ‘Stand Out Socks’ to take part in their Empowerment project. This gives people in the community who have any form of disability the opportunity to show society that despite those disabilities, their obstacles can be overcome and their goals can be achieved.

“Wilson is one extremely determined little boy who tries so hard at everything he does, and he has a determination to do things just as well as his siblings,” his mother, Sara, told The Pembrokeshire Herald.

“And this is because Down Syndrome isn’t an illness. People don’t suffer from it, they just have it. And as a family, we want to change people’s perceptions and lose the stigma about having a disability. It’s ok to be different, and Wilson is far more capable than many people realise.”

Four years ago Wilson, with the help of his family, began sharing images and accounts of his everyday life on social media via his Facebook and Instagram accounts, where he’s known as ‘Wilson Pretty Fly For a Small Guy’.

“The idea was to include images and stories of all his achievements, but also his not so great days, so that people could get an insight into what life is like for a little boy with Down Syndrome.

“Children with Down Syndrome aren’t always happy, as society often thinks they are. They have the same feelings and emotions as everyone else and Wilson can be your typical stroppy and stubborn eight-year-old.

“There are lots of things that Wilson can do, but there are also very many

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

things that he struggles with. But we know that with his determination and a little bit of help along the way, he’ll get there.

“But obviously he’s being helped by his siblings who are very close to him in age but also in helping him come on board and throw himself into whatever it is that they’re doing. If his older brothers can do it, then what’s stopping Wilson from doing it too?”

It was this all-embracing ethos that was presented to the Dragon Den judges by Christian and Ross Laing who were eager to show society that people with disabilities are just as capable of holding down careers and entrepreneurial projects as anyone else.

“Ross has Down Syndrome yet despite the fact that he was extremely enthusiastic and more than capable

of holding down full time employment, no one was prepared to give him a chance,” explains Sara.

So the brothers formed ‘Stand out Socks’ and sold their idea to Dragons Den, winning the backing of entrepreneur hosts Peter Jones and Steven Bartlett. Their name comes from the fact that people with Down Syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21, while chromosomes resemble small socks

“Only 5% of people with disabilities are in paid employment, and this again is something that we’re trying so very hard to change,” said Sara.

“As we’re seeing with Wilson, his enthusiasm for everything that comes his way is exceptionally strong and he’s more than capable of carrying out those tasks and completing them.”

Earlier this month Wilson, who is a pupil at Ysgol Hafan y Mor in Tenby was chosen by ‘Stand out Socks’ to take part in their Empowerment Project where his task is to sell 100

pairs of socks in the run up to World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. The socks are priced £4 for children and £7.50 for adults and are available in a selection of bright designs. He is the sole person in Pembrokeshire selected to take part.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Wilson to kickstart his mini entrepreneurial journey and, as we would expect, he’s thrown himself into it with tremendous energy. But this is very much a team effort, and Wilson’s brothers are putting as much effort into it as he is himself. They’ve all been creating ideas on how to market the socks, they’ve designed some flyers and posters and he’s even made a little stall out of boxes. So my kitchen is currently in chaos.

“But the whole aim is to help people and children like Wilson get their foot in the door of making their entrepreneurial ideas work and getting the recognition that they so greatly deserve.

“The brothers are now starting to operate their own fully fledged little business, and it means so much to us, as a family, that they’re helping to get the message out into the community.”

All proceeds from Wilson’s sock sale will go to The Sibling Group, Pembrokeshire and any excess money will go towards a deposit on a tricycle for Wilson.

“This is a fantastic charity that provides support to children aged between 7 and 18 who have a sibling who’s been diagnosed with a disability, a chronic illness or additional needs,” explained Sara.

“They get taken on trips every month, and once a year they go on a residential overnight stay. A lot of these siblings are carers themselves, so what The Sibling Group is providing to them is invaluable.”

Meanwhile Wilson’s socks can be purchased via his Facebook and Instagram accounts. His older siblings have also been given permission to sell them at a stall at their school at Caer Elen in the run up to World Down Syndrome Day.

“The sole purpose is to change the way that disabilities are being regarded so that we can promote inclusion and start losing those outdated, old fashioned stigmas,” concluded Sara.

“Wilson is just a little boy trying to make a big difference in society.”

Pembrokeshire becomes latest council to consider devolution of Crown Estate

SENIoR councillors will consider a bid for pembrokeshire to become the latest council to support the devolution of Crown Estate assets to Wales.

15 local authorities are currently backing calls for this economic asset to be placed in Welsh hands.

The latest to join the campaign are Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil (both on March 5), and Isle of Anglesey (March 6), bringing the total across Wales to 15.

The Crown Estate owns 65 per cent of Wales’ riverbeds and beaches, as well as more than 50,000 acres of land – valued at over £603m.

Proceeds from these go to the Crown Estate, funding the Royal Family and contributing to the UK Treasury.

Responsibility for the Crown Estate is already devolved to the Scottish Government, which has previously been reported as generating £103.6 million into the public coffers in Scotland in 2023.

A notice of motion submitted to the March 6 meeting by Plaid Cymru councillor Michael Williams said: “We ask PCC to support the proposal for the Crown Estate assets to be devolved to the people of Wales, so that profits can be used to invest in the economy and communities of Wales.

“A poll in 2023 showed that 75 per cent of the population were in favour of taking control of the assets of the Crown estate rather than the profits going to the Treasury and the Crown.

“Local Authorities are under huge financial pressure and placing the Crown Estate in the hands of Wales would be a significant step to address the lack of

investment in our local government.

“We call upon the Welsh Government to ask Westminster to devolve the assets and revenue of the Crown Estates as a matter of urgency, as was done in Scotland in 2017.

“We demand that Wales is treated fairly and accepts management of the Crown Estate land for the benefit of the people of Wales.”

Members agreed the matter be referred to the council’s Cabinet for further consideration.

Earlier in that meeting, a submitted question by Independent Group leader Cllr Huw Murphy on the subject was heard.

He asked: “Can PCC provide the annual income the Crown Estates derive from Pembrokeshire as the Crown Estates map indicate that the majority of the Pembrokeshire Coastline to include much of the Milford Haven waterway is owned by the Crown Estates?”

Responding to that question, Cabinet member for finance Cllr Joshua Beynon said the total amounted to £59,005, including £26,600 for foreshore lease agreements, £8,520 for the land around Haverfordwest’s Riverside Market, and £12,800 for a sailing centre and care park at Cosheston Pill near Pembroke Dock.

Late last year councillors in neighbouring Ceredigion backed a call for the Crown Estate assets to be devolved to the people of Wales, following a notice of motion by Cllr Catrin M S Davies, seconded by Cllr Alun Williams.

Pembroke residents invited to meeting on £500,000 gas upgrade

pEMBRoKE residents are invited to learn more about a £500,000 gas upgrade set to begin later this month.

Wales & West Utilities is holding a drop-in session at the Town Hall foyer, Main Street, Pembroke, on Sunday, March 24, from 1:15pm to 5:45pm. Locals will have the opportunity to view plans and ask project team members about the work, which will upgrade gas pipes across the Pembroke St. Michael and Pembroke St. Mary South areas.

The upgrade, aimed at ensuring a safe and reliable gas supply for homes and businesses, is scheduled to begin on March 31 and continue until September, barring any engineering delays.

Work will take place in Holyland Road, Gooses Lane, Grove Hill, Main Street, Orange Way, Rock Terrace, and Well Hill. Wales & West Utilities

is coordinating with Pembrokeshire County Council, and traffic management measures will be announced in due course.

Project manager Adam Smith said: “We’d like to see as many residents as possible at our drop-in event so we can share the details of he work.

“While most of the gas network is out of sight, it plays a vital role in daily life—whether it’s heating homes, cooking dinner, or running a hot bath. We understand the inconvenience of roadworks, but this upgrade is essential to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply now and for the future.

“Our engineers will be on-site throughout to complete the work as safely and quickly as possible while keeping disruption to a minimum. This project will also prepare the network to transport hydrogen and biomethane,

supporting a greener future.” For further information, residents can contact Wales & West Utilities’ customer service team on 0800 912 2999, via X (formerly Twitter) @WWUtilities, or on Facebook at facebook.com/wwutilities. Wales & West Utilities supplies gas to 7.5 million people across Wales and the South West of England. If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, call the emergency line on 0800 111 999 immediately.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Pembrokeshire celebrates major win at Crufts

ANYoNE who has had the honour of showing a dog at Crufts – known internationally as the biggest and greatest dog show in the world – will understand just how important that infamous green carpet is. As soon as feet and paws descend upon it, the exhibitors know that they really have entered the golden realms of top showing.

Last weekend a 23-year-old Pembrokeshire woman fulfilled her lifetime’s ambition after entering that prestigious green-carpeted ring to earn herself a magnificent third place in the championship handling classes.

“It really was a dream come true,” said Ffion Thomas after she was placed third in the Young Kennel Club Handling competition after showing Dylan, who is a seven-year-old Chinese Crested powderpuff.

“It’s very difficult to describe the excitement we feel when we enter the ring at Crufts because that green carpet really does mean something very special. When you step onto it something just clicks, and you start to feel that incredible sense of adrenalin that only Crufts can produce.”

Ffion was introduced to dog handling at a very young age after her father, Emyr, presented his wife Kathryn with a beautiful little weimaraner puppy as a Christmas present.

“My father has often said that this was one of the worst mistakes of his life, because my mother then started showing the dog…and as much as my father loved the animal, he certainly didn’t enjoy the showring,” laughs Ffion.

Needless to say, seven-year-old Ffion soon found herself bitten by the dog showing bug.

“I was obviously too small to handle a weimaraner, so I started showing our King Charles Spaniel and our little chihuahua, and from both those dogs I learnt the basic handling techniques are required for the show ring.”

For the last 17 years, Ffion has perfected those techniques to the extent that last year, following a major win at the West of England Ladies Kennel Society Show in Malvern –when she showed the family’s threeyear-old chihuahua, Elsa – Ffion qualified for a place in the senior handling class at this year’s Crufts.

“Yes, it’s a frightening prospect because Crufts is obviously the biggest dog show in the world, and the only one of its kind. But I realised how fortunate I was to have had the opportunity to get into that show ring, and I was determined to enjoy every

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

moment and hopefully pass that positive feeling onto the dog.”

And this is one of the key factors in getting a dog to perform well for the judges.

“It’s important to try and form a strong rapport with the dog,” continued Ffion.

“A lot of a handler’s anxiety or nervousness can get passed down the lead, so it’s important to try and send the right signals across to your dog.

“And a dog will always feel that tension, so on Friday I just kept telling myself how lucky I was to be there, get onto that carpet and make things work.”

As a result of Ffion’s flawless handling, she fought her way through 11 finalists which included both toy and utility dogs. to reach the shortlist of five. And after some near-perfect handling, Ffion was put into third place, despite being the highest placed toy dog handler.

“We were in the ring for around 45 minutes, which is a long time to

keep a dog calm and happy. Initially the dogs are lined up for the judge to look at them briefly, before they then start looking at the dogs’ movement. And this is when we have to walk the dogs around the ring in a circular movement.”

Toy dogs, like Dylan, are then placed onto a show table where they are expected to retain a perfect posture throughout their inspection by the judge. Sometimes the judge will deliberately move the dog’s paw or leg, requiring the handler to return it to its precise position, while the handler is also expected to display the dog’s teeth in a particular manner. The judge may also pounce questions on the handler relating to the dog’s origins, its breed traits and its anatomical issues. Once the individual assessment is completed, the dog is then required to move around the ring in a set pattern, normally a triangle, extending from the right corner, the left corner and then back to the judge.

“Dylan is a beautiful dog to handle, despite the Chinese Crested breed sometimes being considered difficult, as they’re not always friendly towards other dogs,” continued Ffion.

“And then of course, handling is a very personalised thing, where everyone has their own particular way of doing things. So you never really know what the judge is going to want from the handler. All you can do is remain confident with your own style and just hope that the judge will like it too.”

Despite last weekend’s success when Ffion and all the other exhibitors and handlers walked away with prizes from the most prestigious dog show in the world, their thoughts are already turning to Crufts 2026.

“My class is open to young handlers up to the age of 24, which means I’ve got one more left to handle at Crufts,” said Ffion.

“So already we’re starting to think about which shows to get to this year, with the hope of qualifying once again in 2026. Living in London – [Ffion is currently working towards an MA in vocal performance at the Royal Academy of Music] – obviously makes things a bit more difficult, but dog handling is definitely something that’s in my blood. And I can’t think of a life without going to shows and doing my absolute best for the dogs.”

Care home funding crisis worsens bed-blocking at Withybush Hospital

A MAJoR investigation has revealed a direct link between underfunded care homes and a worsening bed-blocking crisis at Withybush Hospital, exacerbating an already critical healthcare situation in pembrokeshire.

Research by Care Forum Wales (CFW) highlights how elderly patients who should be discharged to care homes remain in hospital due to a lack of available spaces. This is worsening overcrowding, ambulance delays,

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and treatment backlogs at Withybush Hospital.

CARE HoMES UNdERFUNdEd, CAUSING NHS GRIdLoCK

According to CFW, local authorities under Hywel Dda University Health Board pay some of the lowest fees for care home placements in Wales. This

has resulted in fewer available care home beds, leaving elderly patients stuck in hospital for weeks or even months, increasing pressure on the NHS.

Care Forum Wales Chair, Mario Kreft MBE, said: “There is a clear link between underfunded care homes and high levels of delayed hospital discharges.

“Local authorities are prioritising budget protection over patient care, and the result is a catastrophic breakdown

in the system.

“At Withybush Hospital, ambulances queue outside while patients who could be safely placed in care homes are taking up hospital beds.

“Elderly patients are occupying hospital beds at a cost of £500 a day, while care home places cost less than £200 a day. It makes no financial or moral sense to continue this way.”

CARE HoME CLoSURES CoULd WoRSEN CRISIS IN ApRIL

The situation could deteriorate further in 2025. Care homes in Pembrokeshire and across Wales face potential closures due to the UK Government’s increase in National Insurance contributions, which will drive up staffing costs and put struggling homes out of business.

“We fear more care home closures and redundancies from April,” Mr Kreft said. “The care sector is the solution to the NHS crisis, but it’s being neglected. If homes shut down, where will these elderly patients go?”

WITHYBUSH HoSpITAL’S BEdBLoCKING CRISIS: LoCAL IMpACT

Withybush Hospital has been severely affected by bed-blocking, losing over 100 beds following the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in its structure in 2023. With fewer hospital beds available, the problem has escalated:

• Elderly patients waiting for care home places are trapped in hospital.

• Emergency Department (ED) overcrowding is at breaking point, with patients waiting in chairs or

corridors for treatment.

• Ambulances queue for hours outside Withybush, unable to admit patients due to a lack of available beds.

• A recent report found that over 1,500 patients across Wales are currently waiting for discharge because social care and community care services lack the capacity to take them.

CoUNCIL FUNdING dISpARITIES: WHERE doES pEMBRoKESHIRE STANd?

A CFW league table ranking Welsh councils by the amount they pay for care home places shows Pembrokeshire County Council among the lower funders. In contrast, areas like Newport and Torfaen, which pay higher rates, experience fewer hospital bed-blockers.

Based on historical data and broader trends in the Hywel Dda University Health Board (HDUHB) area, it’s reasonable to estimate that around 65–75% of bed-blocked patients in Pembrokeshire are awaiting discharge to a care home or social care setting.

This estimate aligns with previous reports indicating that Hywel Dda and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Boards have some of the highest rates of delayed discharges in Wales.

WE do KNoW THAT:

• In Gwynedd and Anglesey, where care home fees are among the lowest, over 80% of bed-blocking patients are waiting for a care home place.

• In Neath Port Talbot, Swansea, and Carmarthenshire, where fees are also low, care home patients account for over 75% of those awaiting discharge.

• In Newport, Torfaen, and Blaenau Gwent, which pay higher care home fees, less than 18% of delayed discharges are linked to care home wait times.

Mr Kreft said: “The NHS is haemorrhaging money, paying £500 a night for people to stay in hospital when care home beds costing £200 a night are sitting empty.

“We need to fund social care properly and fix this mess before it’s too late.”

What is being done to fix the crisis?

Several measures are being introduced to reduce bed-blocking at Withybush Hospital, but experts warn that without proper care home funding, these changes won’t go far enough.

NHS dISCHARGE pLANNING INITIATIvES

• Hywel Dda University Health Board is using the SAFER patient flow model to speed up discharges.

• Frailty screening is being used to identify patients who could be safely

moved to care homes or community care.

RECoNFIGURATIoN oF WITHYBUSH EMERGENCY dEpARTMENT (Ed)

• An ambulatory care unit and rapid assessment system are being developed to reduce ED overcrowding.

TECHNoLoGY SoLUTIoNS

• New bedside apps like SPARK Fusion® are being trialled to track bed availability and speed up discharges.

INCREASEd FUNdING – BUT WILL IT BE ENoUGH?

• The Welsh Government has announced a care home fee increase, raising the standard weekly nursing home rate from £235.88 to £254.06 in April 2025.

• Care providers warn this is not enough to prevent closures and further staff redundancies.

MoRE HoSpITAL BEdS AT WITHYBUSH?

• Three of the six closed hospital wards at Withybush are expected to reopen by mid-2025, adding desperately needed capacity.

CoNCLUSIoN: CARE HoME FUNdING MUST BE FIxEd –BEFoRE IT’S Too LATE

The bed-blocking crisis at Withybush Hospital is not just an NHS problem

– it is a social care crisis caused by underfunded care homes.

Without urgent intervention, the lack of care home spaces will:

• Continue to trap elderly patients in hospital unnecessarily.

• Cause longer A&E and ambulance waits.

• Lead to more Pembrokeshire care home closures.

The system is failing both patients and the NHS. Unless decisive action is taken, the crisis will only deepen.

Câr-Y-Môr leads Wales’ £105m regenerative sea farming push

pEMBRoKESHIRE INITIATIvE LAUNCHES CRoWdFUNdER To ExpANd INdUSTRY

WALES is poised to develop a £105 million regenerative sea farming industry, projected to create over 1,000 jobs while restoring marine and soil biodiversity. A recent highlevel discussion, convened by Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Derek Walker, brought together key government and industry stakeholders to explore the challenges and opportunities in this emerging sector.

The talks included representatives from The Crown Estate, Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru/Natural Resources Wales, WWF, Pembrokeshire County Council, the Development Bank of Wales, and sustainable packaging manufacturer Notpla. The meeting follows an initial forum in June 2024, attended by the Prince of Wales, which recognised regenerative sea farming as a major opportunity for Wales.

pIoNEERING CHANGE IN pEMBRoKESHIRE

Pembrokeshire-based community benefit society Câr-Y-Môr is at the forefront of Wales’ regenerative sea farming movement. During the discussions, the organisation called for a clear and consistent regulatory framework, streamlined licensing, and financial support to help early-stage farms invest in infrastructure and innovation.

“Regenerative sea farming has the potential to strengthen coastal economies, create sustainable jobs, and enhance marine biodiversity,” said Owen Haines, managing director of Câr-Y-Môr. “There is growing evidence that seaweed-based biostimulants can improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers. This is a real opportunity for Wales’ land farming community as well as its coastal economies.”

A GRoWING CoMMUNITY BUSINESS

Founded in 2019, Câr-Y-Môr is demonstrating how regenerative farming and local fishing can boost the Welsh economy and improve environmental sustainability. The initiative has already:

• Built a 500-strong community, generated a £300,000 turnover, and created 20 year-round jobs.

• Educated over 1,200 children and young people through school visits and workshops.

• Kept 35 tonnes of Welsh seafood in the UK, ensuring local communities benefit from their own resources.

• Partnered with farmers to trial a seaweed-based biostimulant, increasing crop yields by up to 24% and reducing synthetic fertiliser use.

• Supported 12 fishermen and gatherers with fair prices and local market access.

• Hosted over 100 boat trips to showcase the industry’s potential to policymakers and researchers.

CRoWdFUNdING FoR THE FUTURE

To sustain its momentum, Câr-YMôr has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Crowdfunder UK. In 2025, the organisation plans to lease a disused RNLI station to develop a seaweed and shellfish hatchery, expand seaweed biostimulant trials, and establish new offshore farms.

The public is invited to invest in this community-driven initiative by visiting: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ car-y-mor-share-offer.

BUILdING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

As Wales’ first regenerative sea farm, Câr-Y-Môr exemplifies a model where community-owned businesses can create lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits.

“We thank all who attended this meeting for their positive input and sincerely hope this results in tangible progress to benefit Welsh communities, land and sea,” said Haines.

New water quality data sheds light on health of Wales’ waters

dATA on phosphorus levels in Welsh Special Area of Conservation (SAC) rivers shows small improvements, while interim water quality classifications for Welsh rivers hold steady.

Collaborative and concerted efforts to tackle water pollution must continue at scale to drive water quality improvements, say experts at Natural Resources Wales (NRW) as new and interim water quality data is published.

Data for phosphorus compliance shows that 50% waterbodies in Welsh SAC rivers are now meeting stringent targets, compared with 39% in 2021.

In total, 122 individual water bodies within Wales’s nine SAC rivers were assessed –eight more than were assessed for th 2021 report.

A direct comparison between those assessed in both 2021 and 2024 shows 17 moving to a pass, and five falling out of compliance.

But while there are improvements recorded, due to the changes in passes and failures on individual water bodies, the number of whole SAC river catchments with non-compliances rises from five in 2021 to seven.

The Afon Gwyrfai and Afon Eden SAC rivers in north west Wales both previously met phosphorus targets, but now each have one failing water body.

This now means that the Afon Gwyrfai SAC will be subject to development restrictions to prevent further phosphorus impacting water quality. It will not be required for the Eden catchment as the failure was driven by one high sample.

Improvements downstream in the River Wye, which is now passing the phosphorus target, means that development restrictions on neutrality can be lifted in the most downstream water body only.

However, sustainable development will still be required in order to maintain compliance in the future.Mary Lewis, NRW’s Head of Natural Resource Management said: “The results for our Special Area of Conservation rivers are encouraging, and suggest that the scale of action undertaken in recent years is starting to make a difference.

“But we must also remember that there is a lag between our actions and measurable improvements in water quality, and it will certainly take more time before we see the kind of significant improvements we all want.

“Since our 2021 report, we have seen action at scale – by ourselves as environmental regulators, Government, industry and communities – to improve the health of our rivers.

“What is important now is that we use this evidence to continue to work towards our shared goal of better river health for people and nature. We must keep up the momentum that has been built in recent years, and we must all play our part in driving down phosphorus and pollution in our waters.”

Since NRW’s 2021 phosphorus compliance report, Nutrient Management Boards have been established in failing SAC catchments, tasked with reducing phosphate pollution.

A series of river pollution summits led by Welsh Government Ministers have brought together key representatives from different industries to deliver a plan of actions, including action to unlock housing

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

development in phosphorus sensitive catchments.

This includes an extensive project led by NRW to review the environmental permits of larger wastewater discharges in SAC catchments. In total NRW has varied 162 permits to include or tighten a phosphorus limit – either immediately or within Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water’s Asset Management Programmes.

This work has been vital in informing water companies and local planning authorities about where there is capacity for new housing developments, without adding to the phosphorus load in catchments which are exceeding targets.

Also published today are interim classifications under the Water Framework Directive Regulations.

These show water quality remaining steady with 40% of water bodies at good or better overall status. This is the same as NRW’s most recent 2021 classification but an improvement of 3% from 2015 and 8% since 2019.

The Water Framework Directive Regulations uses a ‘one out all out’ approach for the overall status assessment, which means if one of the elements assessed fails, the whole water body fails. Without this, looking at each individual elements, 93% of water bodies reach good or better status.

The Water Framework Directive Regulations require measures to protect the ecological health of our rivers, lakes, estuaries and groundwaters using River Basin Management Plans to establish the collective actions required to achieve Good Ecological Status.

It provides a set of environmental standards for assessing the status of each water body. Regulators are required to undertake this assessment every six years. NRW has decided to publish an interim classification at year three in order to better track progress of water quality improvements.

Next financial year the Welsh Government is committing £16m to NRW’s Water Capital Programme to help tackle some of the key challenges facing our waters.

Later this year, NRW is aiming to also publish condition assessments for marine Special Areas of Conservation wholly in Wales.

Mary added: “Wales’s marine Special Areas of Conservation support a wealth of habitats and species, but like our rivers, are under increasing pressure.

“These condition assessments will be vital evidence which will help to prioritise the actions and measures needed to improve these highly protected sites.

“It is our long term ambition to align all reporting on water quality data to provide a more holistic overview of the current state of water quality in our rivers, lakes, groundwaters and the sea.”

Phosphorous pollution can lead to rapid growth of algae and poor water quality through a process known as eutrophication. Algal growth prevents light from penetrating our rivers and uses up oxygen in the water, suffocating other species in the process. Wildlife Trusts Wales warns this can lead to fish deaths and harm to other aquatic life which call Welsh rivers home. According to

the Trusts, ensuring rivers are in good health is vital, not only for wildlife, but also for the quality of water needed by people across Wales and beyond.

Reflecting on the findings of today’s report, Tim Birch, senior policy and advocacy manager at Wildlife Trusts Wales, says: “Despite public outcry and political promises, today’s evidence shows worsening river pollution in seven of nine of our most protected natural rivers in Wales. These special rivers are officially recognised for their high importance for wildlife, yet two more are now showing significant deterioration since their last assessment in 2021, putting water quality and even more wildlife at risk.

“At a time when our rivers should be improving, not worsening, these levels of phosphorous pollution are unacceptable. Run-off from slurry and fertilisers from intensive farming are the main causes leading to phosphorous pollution in Welsh rivers. Natural Resources Wales needs to recognise the scale of this problem so that urgent action can be taken to restore our rivers for the benefit of wildlife and people.”

The increase in pollution of rivers in Wales is at odds with the Welsh Government’s UN Convention on Biological Diversity international commitment to reduce damaging levels of nutrients in all water bodies by at least 50% by 2030.

Paul Sartori receives further support from The James Tudor Foundation

pAUL SARToRI HoSpIC AT HoME, a pembrokeshire-based charity, has secured a £10,000 grant from The James Tudor Foundation to support its end-of-life care services. The funding will contribute to the charity’s Registered Nursing Team, which provides essential palliative care across the county.

THE ANNUAL CoST oF dELIvERING THIS SERvICE ExCEEdS £200,000.

Paul Sartori takes a holistic approach to end-of-life care, offering home nursing, complementary therapies, bereavement support, physiotherapy, future care planning, and training. Its team delivers thousands of hours of respite care each year, ensuring patients receive support in the comfort of their homes.

The charity’s Registered Nurses play a vital role in bridging gaps in local palliative care. Their flexible and responsive approach ensures that patients’ wishes to remain at home are honoured. They conduct assessments, facilitate referrals, collaborate with healthcare providers, and offer expert advice. The nurses also assist with symptom management, medication administration, and operate the charity’s 24/7 on-call service, providing immediate assistance in emergencies. Additionally, they coordinate fast-track personal care packages to help patients return home from hospital with adequate support.

“The presence of a Paul Sartori Registered Nurse at home brings immense reassurance to families during a challenging time,” said Laura Hugman, Clinical Team Manager at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. “Our nurses uphold the highest standards of compassionate care, prioritising dignity

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

and quality of life. Having a Registered Nurse available at night means that patients and families can receive prompt assistance without delays.”

Judith Williams, Grant Development Officer at Paul Sartori, expressed gratitude for the continued support: “We are incredibly thankful to The James Tudor Foundation for their generosity. Their funding helps us maintain our

nursing service, which is a lifeline for many families facing end-of-life care challenges. Our nurses make a significant impact, alleviating stress and providing much-needed comfort.”

The James Tudor Foundation focuses on the relief of human sickness, supporting organisations that provide direct care to individuals affected by physical or mental health issues. Their commitment to improving endof-life support aligns with Paul Sartori Hospice at Home’s mission to provide

compassionate and dignified care in Pembrokeshire’s rural communities.

“The Foundation is pleased to support Paul Sartori Hospice at Home once again in delivering this crucial service,” said a spokesperson for The James Tudor Foundation. “Ensuring individuals receive practical and emotional support at the end of life is vital, and we are impressed by the charity’s unwavering dedication. We look forward to hearing more about the impact of their work.”

Lower income families offered free entry to Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025

The Cabinet Secretary for Welsh Language, Mark drakeford said: “The Urdd Eisteddfod is one of the cultural highlights of our Welsh calendar and a fantastic way for families to use, hear and experience the language. Cymraeg belongs to us all and this funding ensures financial barriers won’t stop families from enjoying the Urdd Eisteddfod. We’re proud to support the Urdd and help more people connect with Cymraeg through this important event.”

The Urdd as an organisation has committed to offer free entry to Local and Regional Eisteddfodau to families or individuals who are eligible for free school meal vouchers, the school uniform grant or the Educational Maintenance grant scheme.

Leading up to the Eisteddfod, the Urdd will also be working with Neath Port Talbot Council, the Welsh Local Government Association and local organisations who support lower-income families to make

sure that those who could benefit are aware of the low-income tickets.

Entry tickets to the festival go on sale 19 March and early bird tickets will be available until 1 May. Lower income families will be able to claim their free entry tickets in two ways:

Urdd £1 Membership. An e-mail will be sent to families who receive the Urdd £1 Membership with information on how to claim their tickets.

The Urdd’s website. Before tickets can be claimed, the person or family will need to confirm that they are eligible within the listed criteria. Full information and criteria of who can apply for the lowincome tickets will be available on the website.

Eisteddfod yr Urdd is one of Europe’s largest youth touring festivals, and thousands are expected to compete at the final stages of the festival in Margam Park between 26 and 31 May 2025. To purchase tickets or to claim lower-income tickets visit www.urdd.cymru/eisteddfod.

Prime Pembrokeshire holiday park for sale at £1.85 million

GREAT INvESTMENT oppoRTUNITY IN THE HEART oF THE NATIoNAL pARK

LLANTEGLOS HOLIDAY PARK, a well-established and picturesque retreat close to the fabulous Amroth Beach, is now on the market for £1.85 million. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a tourism-based asset with fantastic trading and development potential and

exceptional owner’s accommodation, on the fringes of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The sale is being managed by Colliers’ specialist Parks team.

Nestled within 3.5 hectares of tranquil countryside, Llanteglos Holiday Park is set within the original orchard and gardens of Llanteglos House, a charming period residence that

provides the owner’s accommodation. Located just two miles from Amroth Beach, known for its golden sands and rock pools. Visitors can also explore the nearby market town of Narberth, as well as the ever-popular coastal towns of Saundersfoot and Tenby.

The holiday park includes 24 singlestorey chalets with mezzanine floors dating from the 1970s leased to third parties under 99-year leases with indexlinked annual charges. Additionally, there are eight two-storey chalets. Oak Lodge has been retained and is used for holiday lets. The holiday park also features spacious grounds, complete with a tennis court, children’s play area, and peaceful gardens, making it an attractive and relaxing getaway. Beyond its existing accommodation, the estate

offers exciting development potential.

The property includes the Wanderer’s Rest Inn, the premises license for which extends to the wider estate making it perfectly suited for functions and events. Llanteglos Cottage is a charming period cottage currently used for residential lettings, presents an opportunity for holiday rental conversion. Garden Lodge provides a ground floor business unit with a four-bedroom apartment used for holiday lettings on the first floor.

It is very rare for planning permission to be granted for new holiday accommodation developments in such sensitive locations and the holiday park benefits from planning permission for a development of a further eight luxury sustainable holiday units, enhancing its appeal as a modern, eco-friendly holiday destination.

The Baron family, who are now looking to retire, bought this estate 24 years ago, relocating from London, and the business could once again attract a similar purchaser profile of city professionals looking for a lifestyle change running their own tourismbased business in the UK’s only coastal National Park.

Ben Jones, director in Colliers’ Parks team commented: “This is a rare opportunity to acquire a tourism-based asset in a prime location on the fringes of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. There is a core holiday park offering with tremendous trading and development potential and some truly exceptional owner’s accommodation. The additional planning consent for further development makes this a truly great opportunity.”

For more info contact colliers.com

Parents forced to buy unhealthy food due to soaring costs

FAMILIES STRUGGLING AS THE CoST-oF-LIvING CRISIS dEEpENS

THE RISING cost of living is forcing Welsh parents to buy unhealthy food for their children, as healthier options become unaffordable, a new survey by Barnardo’s Cymru has revealed.

According to the survey, around one in five parents (22%) admit they have no choice but to purchase unhealthy food every week due to financial constraints. The findings come as Barnardo’s Cymru reports visiting homes where there is no food, with some mothers skipping meals entirely to ensure their children can eat. Maria Jones, a children’s services manager with Barnardo’s Cymru, said: “We are seeing families who are beyond crisis point. It is no longer a choice of heating or eating for some. They simply have no heat and their cupboards are bare.”

CHILdREN SURvIvING oN UNHEALTHY dIETS

Families are increasingly reliant on supermarket discount shelves, purchasing whatever is cheapest, regardless of nutritional value. Jones added: “Too many children are now just living on chips. It’s a huge problem, and who knows what the long-term impact will be.”

To combat food insecurity, Barnardo’s

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Cymru has distributed thousands of pounds worth of food vouchers in recent months. However, even food banks struggle to provide fresh produce, leaving families with limited nutritious options. Jones, who works in Newport, highlighted the city council’s role in supporting the distribution of supermarket vouchers. “We have had families breaking down in tears on the doorstep because they are so grateful to have help with fresh food,” she said.

SURvEY ExpoSES GRoWING CRISIS

The YouGov survey questioned 231 parents across Wales with at least one child under 18. Key findings include:

• 22% of parents bought unhealthy food weekly due to affordability issues.

• 41% said they had to opt for cheaper, unhealthy food at least once a month.

• 72% of parents who resorted to unhealthy food choices expressed concern over their children’s diets.

• 18% believed their children’s diets had worsened due to the cost of living.

Barnardo’s has also published a report, Nourishing the Future, which highlights the growing number of children missing out on nutritious food. The report warns that the average height of five-yearolds in the UK is declining, and Victorianera diseases linked to malnutrition, such as rickets, are making a return.

STRUCTURAL INEqUALITIES dEEpENING Food INSECURITY

The report, drawing on insights from children, parents, and experts, reveals:

• Families and young people want healthier diets but struggle to afford them.

• Healthy food is out of reach for those on low incomes or Universal Credit.

• Structural inequalities in the food system make it harder for certain groups to access nutritious food.

Barnardo’s also highlights the additional difficulties faced by families in temporary accommodation. Many are living in single hotel rooms without cooking facilities and rely on takeaways for months. Even after securing housing, families often move into unfurnished spaces without basic necessities such as beds, cookers, or fridges.

Jones explained: “They have a roof over their heads but very little else. We often have to step in with essentials like blow-up beds while they wait for emergency grants.”

CALLS FoR GovERNMENT INTERvENTIon

Parents without access to budget supermarkets are also facing higher costs, as they are forced to shop at expensive corner stores.

Sarah Crawley, Director of Barnardo’s Cymru, said: “We are seeing the impact of poverty on children’s nutrition in homes across Wales. Far too many children and young people are missing out on nutritious food, with huge knockon effects for their health.

“We know that parents are making big sacrifices so their children have the best food they can afford. But healthy food is out of reach for so many families.”

THE

CHARITY’S REpoRT RECoMMENdS GovERNMENT ACTIoN, INCLUdING:

• Increasing the value of healthy shopping vouchers for low-income families.

• Strengthening regulations on the quality of school meals.

• Using revenue from future sugar or salt taxes to tackle food insecurity.

Barnardo’s Cymru is calling for urgent measures to ensure that no child in Wales has to go hungry or suffer long-term health consequences due to financial hardship.

MIKE EDWARDS

AS YOU grow older, pain is something you learn to live with. Aches become the garnish of every strenuous task. From getting up in the morning to doing the garden or walking the sodding mutt in the cold and rain, those little twinges and larger twangs all get worse with life’s progress from birth to the great full stop.

These days, there’s always a niggle somewhere: knee, hip, back, shoulder, elbow, neck, feet. All my joints like to join in with the fun and games.

That’s all bad enough. It’s inevitable, though, if you spend your years between youth and middle age playing sports while carrying around the equivalent of a three-year-old child strapped to your midsection.

I used to cheer myself up by looking at far-fitter types. The sort that plays squash and talks about it as though squeaking shoes are interesting. In fact, the type who spent large amounts of time bandaged, strapped up, or under a surgeon’s knife, while apart from cosmetic damage to my teeth, nose and pride, I sailed through life largely uninjured.

And then.

Last week, I was unwise enough to gloat about my wife, who is as fit as the proverbial meat vendor’s pooch, slipping and injuring herself. I expressed barely concealed pleasure at the prospect of not trudging across hills and fields in the damp and chill of early March.

More fool me.

It was a fine sunny day in March, and the clocks had just struck thirteen. Well, on the twenty-four clock.

I was in our front garden admiring the lawn and thinking of the milliseconds of pleasure I would get from the half an hour it would take to cut it. With a resigned sigh, I spun on my heel to head towards the mower. And kept on spinning. There was an interesting crunching sound as my face smacked into the concrete on our drive. I want to say I saw stars. Angelina Jolie giving me the kiss of life would’ve been nice. However, what I saw was my palm wiping my face and coming away covered in blood.

I staggered inside and stared in the kitchen mirror. My face was a red mask of yuckiness. I called to my beloved. My wife hobbled into the kitchen, took one look at the claret-covered visage of her wounded husband, and responded in the way I expected.

“You bloody fool, Mike Edwards, what have you done now?”

“Slipped. Fell. Drive. Ow!”

And so it was. I spent Sunday in Withybush Hospital, getting stitched and glued back together instead of mowing the lawn.

On the whole, I’d have preferred cutting the grass.

My poor mush.

It’s never been the most prepossessing of things, but now it looks like I’ve gone three rounds with the heavyweight champion boxer of your choice. Never mind my chiselled good looks. My face looks like it’s been strip-mined. I have learned an important lesson. If you think you’d rather do anything instead of cutting the lawn, think again.

ENGLAND: TOM WILLIS

Ireland: Sam Prendergast

‘It’ll

be their

THIS SATURdAY, the principality

Stadium in Cardiff will host one of rugby’s most storied rivalries as Wales face England in their final Six Nations match of the 2025 tournament. For Wales, it’s a crucial opportunity to end a 16-match losing streak and avoid a second consecutive wooden spoon.

TEAM NEWS

Wales have been dealt a blow with the news that wingers Tom Rogers and Josh Adams will miss the match due to injuries. Rogers requires surgery for a fractured thumb, while Adams has not recovered from a hamstring issue. Interim coach Matt Sherratt has not called up

replacements, with Josh Hathaway expected to start in Rogers’ place. England, on the other hand, are dealing with their own injury concerns. Centre ollie Lawrence suffered an Achilles injury in their recent victory over Italy, casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming match and potentially affecting his Lions tour prospects.

ENGLAND’S PERSPECTIVE

England enter the match with title aspirations, sitting second in the Six Nations table. A win in Cardiff is essential if they are to challenge France for the championship. Captain Jamie George acknowledges the significance of

their World Cup final’

the fixture, stating, “I think a lot gets spoken about Wales and how much it means to them. A message from me is that we should never shy away from how much it means for us to play for England and what this fixture means to us.” he continued “It will be their World Cup final, and we are going there to win the tournament,”

WALES’ CHALLENGE

Under Sherratt’s interim leadership, Wales have shown

glimpses of promise, narrowly losing to Ireland and Scotland. However, the absence of key players and the weight of their losing streak present significant challenges. The team will need to harness the passionate support of their home crowd to overcome the formidable English side.

KICK-oFF DETAILS

The match kicks off at 16:45 GMT on Saturday, March 15, at the principality Stadium. Coverage

begins on BBC one at 16:00 GMT.

LooKING AHEAD

For Wales, this match is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity to restore pride and build towards future successes. For England, it’s a critical step in their pursuit of Six Nations glory. Both teams have much to play for, ensuring a thrilling encounter that rugby fans won’t want to miss.

The team to face england

Wales head coach Matt Sherratt has announced his team to face England in their crucial Six Nations encounter at the principality Stadium this weekend. The fixture, part of Super Saturday, sees England arriving in Cardiff with the opportunity to secure the championship title if they emerge victorious.

Wales will be looking to break their recent losing streak against their old rivals, having last beaten England in the Six Nations back in 2021. England have won the last three encounters, though two of those matches were decided by a narrow margin of four points or fewer. Last year’s contest was particularly agonising for Wales, as George Ford’s 71st-minute penalty saw them slip to a 16-14 defeat at Twickenham.

Sherratt has had to contend with some injury concerns ahead of this crucial match. As reported earlier in the week, Cardiff winger Josh Adams and Scarlets back Tom Rogers have been ruled out. Adams sustained a hamstring injury during training, while Rogers fractured his thumb in last weekend’s match against Scotland.

This fixture also marks what is set to be Sherratt’s final game in charge of Wales.

Starting xv: Blair Murray; Ellis Mee, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Joe Roberts; Gareth Anscombe, Tomos Williams; Nicky Smith, Elliot Dee, WillGriff John, Will Rowlands, Dafydd Jenkins, Aaron Wainwright, Jac Morgan (captain), Taulupe Faletau.

Replacements: Dewi Lake, Gareth Thomas, Keiron Assiratti, Teddy Williams, Tommy Reffell, Rhodri Williams, Jarrod Evans, Nick Tompkins.

LOOK OUT FoR...

WALES: Joe Roberts

SCOTLAND: TOM JORDAN

TakeawAyS from Scotland

THE contrast between Wales’ performances in Round Two and Round Four of the Six Nations was stark. A key factor? The return of Taulupe Faletau.

The veteran number eight has long been a game-changer for Wales, and his presence against Scotland reaffirmed that notion. With 107 caps for the British and Irish Lions, Faletau once again demonstrated his world-class ability, providing a crucial carrying option, making hard-fought metres, and contributing immensely on both sides of the ball.

His impact was evident in every aspect of the match. He made 22 tackles, gained significant metres, and ensured stability at the breakdown, in open play, and at the lineout. In a moment that could have defined the game, Faletau surged down the pitch in the 75th minute to score what looked like a crucial try. However, following a TMO review, the try was controversially disallowed. The officials deemed that Cameron Murray had jumped a tackle, an interpretation of the law that seemed harsh. While the law prohibits jumping over a tackling player, the decision to penalise Murray for hurdling a flailing arm appeared highly debatable. Referee Andrea Piardi, who otherwise had an excellent

game, opted for a conservative ruling, and the try was chalked off. Wales’ back-row impressed throughout, with Jac Morgan once again showcasing his brilliance and Aaron Wainwright making a significant impact from the bench. However, it was Faletau who stole the show, proving once again why he remains a pivotal figure in Welsh rugby. As he eyes a fourth and final British and Irish Lions tour at the age of 34, his performance served as a reminder of his enduring class.

In the backline, there were promising signs for Wales’ future. Gareth Anscombe worked tirelessly to maximise the potential of the youthful players around him. Notably, both centres managed to get on the scoresheet—an encouraging sign for a team that has long struggled with midfield combinations. Over the years, Wales have experimented with various selections, often playing individuals out of position or recalling experienced heads. However, the inclusion of Mason Grady and Joe Roberts, both natural centres, suggests a step forward. Grady still needs to refine his decision-making, particularly in terms of his running lines and when to keep the ball alive, but his intelligent cutback for his try demonstrated his

awareness of positioning, making the subsequent conversion easier.

Elsewhere, Cameron Murray and Ellis Mee had their moments, with Murray injecting life into the contest with a crucial first-half try following a moment of brilliance from Anscombe. Meanwhile, Joe Roberts’ sheer determination in setting up Llewellyn’s try highlighted the resilience and

hunger within this young Welsh squad.

Despite the disappointment of defeat, Wales can take heart from the progress shown. With youthful talent forming the core of their future plans, there is a growing sense of optimism. If they continue on this trajectory, the long-term outlook for Welsh rugby appears promising.

Park welcomes First Minister with spectacular dragon parade

THE pEMBRoKESHIRE CoAST

NATIoNAL pARK AUTHoRITY hosted a dragon parade in St davids on Saturday (Mar 1), led by the First Minister and other distinguished guests.

The event celebrated St David’s Day with a dazzling showcase of community spirit, creativity, and Welsh heritage.

The lively procession set off from Oriel y Parc, filling the streets of St Davids with colour and energy and the dynamic sounds of drumming group Samba Doc.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said:

“The St David’s Day parade was a spectacular occasion this year. The city really comes into its own on the day of our patron saint and it was great to see the artwork of the local school children and Kate Evans, which provided a wonderful and very Welsh theme for the parade.

“Thank you to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority for organising such a memorable event. It was an honour to join the Dragon Parade – a huge well done to everyone involved for their hard work.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

market featuring handpicked local stallholders took place throughout the day, offering a variety of handmade crafts and locally produced goods. The market provided a fantastic opportunity for visitors to support local artisans and enjoy a taste of Pembrokeshire’s rich creative community.

To mark the occasion, Tegryn Jones, Chief Executive of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, presented a framed retro print featuring St Non’s Chapel to the First Minister to mark the St David’s Day celebrations.

Speaking of the day, Tegryn Jones, said: “It was our pleasure to welcome the First Minister to lead this year’s Dragon Parade, joined by notable guests and a host of community representatives, who all helped to make the event a resounding success. The parade has grown in significance over the years and now marks an important part of the city’s cultural celebrations for St David’s Day.

Parade participants included school and community groups such as Care in the Community, Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi (Non Campus) Years 2 and 3, Croesgoch School (Years 3 and 4), and Cylch Meithrin Croesgoch Playgroup.

the festivities continued with a captivating static performance by Samba Doc in the courtyard. The highlight of the event was the highly anticipated return of the baby dragon, a stunning creation developed in collaboration with local artist Kate Evans. Schools and community groups worked closely with Kate to bring this imaginative centrepiece to life.

“On behalf of the Authority, I’d like to extend thanks to all participants, volunteers, and spectators for joining us on the day and ensuring the success and smooth running of this popular event.

As the parade returned to Oriel y Parc,

Alongside the celebrations, a vibrant

Planning a VE Day street party? Don’t forget to apply for a road closure

ARE you planning a street party to celebrate the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe (vE) day this May?

If so, please ensure you apply for a temporary road closure to Pembrokeshire County Council’s traffic

team by March 24th.

There are four days of celebration planned for the UK from May 5th to 8th including military processions, flypast, concerts and a special service at Westminster Abbey.

Communities are also invited to come together to celebrate this historic occasion and the Council will waive road closure application fee. Costs associated with any required Traffic Management would be payable by applicants.

The Council will be collating all successful temporary road closure applications into one order

To allow time for processing, applications must be received by Monday, March 24th.

In order to consider a road closure application, please provide:

• Name of applicant

• Contact details – email address, full address and telephone number

• Location of event – this would need to be residential street/close/estate and not a main arterial route

• Date (specify May 5th, 6th, 7th or

8th) and times of the proposed event

• Plan – please provide a plan or sketch of where you wish to hold the event

All temporary road closure applications must be sent to Roadclosures@pembrokeshire.gov.uk by March 24th at the latest.

Requests will be assessed for suitability before permission is granted.

Information will then be provided on how to proceed, clear signage will be required for closures of the Public Highway. A traffic management company would be required to advise on what is necessary and to supply at the applicant’s expense.

Please note an application should only be submitted where the event is requested to take place on the highway.

Applicants are kindly asked to liaise with their local town or community council before submitting to ensure there is no duplication of applications. Events ‘off road’ on grassed areas, village greens, play parks etc. would need the landowners’ permission.

Auditor general criticises ‘irregular’ Industry Wales accounts

THE AUdIToR general sounded the alarm about the “irregular” accounts of a wholly Welsh Government-owned company, warning of a lack of evidence to support financial claims.

Adrian Crompton took the extraordinary step of stating he could not form an audit opinion on Industry Wales, the trading name of Sector Development Wales Partnership Ltd (SDWP).

Industry Wales, which aims to provide expert advice and support to grow “Wales plc”, has received about £9.7m from the public purse in the past decade, according to accounts.

Mr Crompton said: “This is a highly unusual position whereby I am stating that I am unable to provide either a ‘true and fair’ or ‘regularity’ opinion on the accounts as I have been unable to obtain sufficient, appropriate evidence over material assets.”

In a letter to the Senedd public accounts committee, he wrote: “Unfortunately, this inability to obtain sufficient, appropriate evidence applied to multiple connected parts of the accounts.”

The auditor general concluded: “The impact is so significant and pervasive in the context of SDWP’s accounts that I am unable to give an opinion at all.”

Industry Wales – a relatively small umbrella organisation for forums in key sectors such as aerospace, net zero

and the automotive industry – has an annual budget of about £1m.

In a disclaimer on the 2024 accounts, Mr Crompton pointed out that the company failed to follow the Welsh Government’s own procurement law in awarding a contract in 2021/22.

The company, which was set up by ministers in Cardiff Bay in 2013, has spent more than £1m on an automated decorating, cutting and packing line which is not yet operational.

The firm entered into a contract with Llanelli-based manufacturer EBS Automation which scored second on price in the non-compliant procurement process.

Mr Crompton said Industry Wales claims to have assets valued at more than £1m but the bulk comes from the packing line, with indications it may have significantly impaired value.

Declaring £829,000 of the spending to be “irregular”, the auditor general also warned of a lack of robust record keeping and accounting controls for another £217,967 of assets.

The audit, which had an initial deadline of December 31, was delayed until late February due to “significant deficiencies” in obtaining the required evidence.

But Mr Crompton, an ex-senior civil

servant in the Senedd, remained unable to complete the work he was appointed to undertake on the 2024 accounts which showed a £35,000 loss.

The arm’s-length body is chaired by Professor Keith Ridgway and run by chief executive Dr Jenifer Baxter, who are experts in manufacturing and sustainability respectively.

Directors’ remuneration has totalled £245,000 over the past two financial years and the Bridgend-based company employs three to four people, according to accounts.

Mark Isherwood, the Tory chairman of the public accounts committee, said: “It is a matter of concern that the auditor general has ‘disclaimed’ his audit opinions on these accounts.”

The north Walian added: “This is a highly unusual position and there are questions that need to be asked as to why this has occurred. The public accounts and public administration committee will be discussing this matter on Thursday.”

Industry Wales and the Welsh Government were invited to comment.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show – the perfect introduction to live theatre

THE CRITICALLY acclaimed production of The very Hungry Caterpillar Show created by Jonathan Rockefeller features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets.

The production faithfully adapts four stories by author/illustrator Eric Carle: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Busy Spider and of course, the star of the show –The Very Hungry Caterpillar and can be seen at the Torch Theatre this April.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, a vibrant celebration of Eric Carle’s adored classics, is the perfect introduction to live theatre and has delighted generations of readers since it was first published in 1969 selling more than 48 million copies worldwide. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, now celebrating 50 years, has sold more than 18.2 million copies.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is the world’s #1 show for young children, playing to over 1 million attendees in over 10 countries and the iconic Hungry Caterpillar artwork created by Eric is instantly recognizable.

“We can’t wait to welcome The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show here to the Torch Theatre. Everyone has heard of the Caterpillar or read about him and now you can see the loveable character on the Torch stage with his friends. What better way to spend a morning or afternoon with the three performances

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

we have on offer,” said Anwen Francis, from the Marketing Team at the Torch.

The show has been described by

the New York Times as “Bedazzling! Will Mesmerize Audiences!” and as “A Knockout Success” by the Daily Telegraph.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show can be seen at the Torch Theatre on Wednesday 23 April at 2pm; Thursday 24 April at 11am and Thursday 24 April at 2pm. Tickets are: £14.00 | £12.00 Child | £47.00 Family. Visit the website for further details www.torchtheatre. co.uk or phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Action for a better world – Exhibition at Cardigan Guildhall

THERE’S a long and proud history of activists who have worked for a better world by rebelling against the status quo when change was needed. The suffragettes and civil rights protesters often spring to mind, but many others have also changed our world for the better over the centuries.

This history will be be brought right up to date at the Cardigan Guildhall Corn Exchange next week. The role of current-day activists will be illustrated in an exhibition of Faces of Rebellion from 17th to 22nd March.

It features the work of Mark Skipper, who uses the name Bitterjug for his art work. He says, “I’m a software engineer with a sketchbook. I’m also a climate activist, and reportage sketcher: I take my sketchbook to protests to capture scenes and atmosphere in ways that photography cannot.”

Mark’s sketches of activists’ faces are surrounded by the person’s own words about how and why they became active, and the variety is striking.

Mark continues, “Faces of Rebellion tells the stories of climate activists as humans in a way the media cannot. Its enduring themes are compassion and community.”

Mark encourages other artists to get involved, and portraits by Solutionairy, from The Netherlands, will also be included. Solutionary gives her background: “I trained as a solution focussed psychologist. We focus on people’s strengths and their unique ways to deal with life’s challenges. With Faces of Rebellion I get to apply this to our greatest challenge. I’m inspired by the variety of stories of courage and kindness in the face of climate breakdown.”

Caroline Juler is a local artist and film-maker who lives in Brynberian. She has made many short videos of Cardigan based climate activists, and these will also be part of the exhibition. “I’ve been very aware of the escalating climate crisis for some time, and recently I’ve been taking a more active part in trying to do something about it. We all bring our own backgrounds and talents to climate work, and these all feed into effective climate campaigning when we work together. I wanted to make the videos to show how this works for some of the many local activists.”

The exhibition has been arranged by West Wales Climate Coalition members, and Philippa Gibson has helped with some of the organisation. She says, “It’s easy to feel disheartened by slow progress,

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

and Donald Trump’s denial of the climate cristis doesn’t help, but we need to be aware that we are part of an “ecosystem of change” that includes COP international climate conferences, national legislation, community action, industry innovation, and individual commitment, including protests and non-violent direct action to to challenge damaging practices.” She added, “All these parts work together to make meaningful impacts achievable. We ALL have a role to play. This exhibition aims to be inspiring and positive.”

If you’d like more information about the exhibition or about local climate campaigning, contact cardiganxr@ protonmail.com

APPLE TV’s: Dope Thief

App LE T v + is set to launch its gripping eightepisode crime drama, ‘ d ope Thief’, on 14 March 2025.

The series stars Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura as small-time criminals who, while posing as DEA agents to rob drug dealers, inadvertently uncover a vast narcotics network along the Eastern Seaboard.

Henry portrays Ray, a thief confronting his troubled past amidst escalating dangers. He describes the role as a “homecoming” due to its deep emotional resonance.

The ensemble cast includes Marin Ireland, Kate Mulgrew, Nesta Cooper, Amir Arison, Dustin Nguyen, and Ving Rhames. The series is created by Peter Craig, with Ridley

Scott directing the first episode. ‘Dope Thief’ is based on Dennis Tafoya’s 2009 novel and is produced by Apple Studios in association with Scott Free Productions.

The first two episodes will be available on Apple TV+ from 14 March, with subsequent episodes released weekly until 25 April 2025.

STAR WARS ‘ANDOR’ SEASON 2 COMING SOON

The highly anticipated second and final season of “Andor,” the critically acclaimed Star Wars prequel series, is set to premiere on Disney+ on 22 April 2025. This season will consist of 12 episodes, continuing the journey of Cassian Andor, portrayed by Diego Luna, as he evolves from a reluctant revolutionary to a key figure in the Rebel Alliance, bridging the narrative gap between the series and “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.”

Creator Tony Gilroy has structured Season 2 to cover four pivotal years leading up to the events of “Rogue One.” The episodes are organised into four blocks, each comprising

three episodes that depict events spanning a single year. This format allows for an in-depth exploration of Cassian’s transformation and the escalating conflict with the Galactic Empire.

The season will delve into the complexities of rebellion, highlighting the personal sacrifices and challenges faced by its leaders. Key storylines include Mon Mothma’s public struggles and the evolving dynamics among characters such as Luthen Rael, Dedra Meero, and Syril Karn.

Diego Luna will reprise his role as Cassian Andor, joined by returning cast members Adria Arjona as Bix Caleen,

Stellan Skarsgård as Luthen Rael, Genevieve O’Reilly as Mon Mothma, and Forest Whitaker as Saw Gerrera. New additions to the cast include Ben Mendelsohn, returning as Orson Krennic, and Alan Tudyk, voicing the droid K-2SO.

The first season of “Andor” received widespread acclaim for its mature storytelling and complex character development, being hailed as “the most complex, mature story in Star Wars.”

With Season 2 poised to delve deeper into the intricacies of rebellion and personal transformation, expectations are high for its contribution to the Star Wars saga.

MARCHING POWDER

“MARCHING poWdER,” directed by Nick Love, is a British film that delves into the tumultuous life of Jack (played by danny dyer), a middle-aged football hooligan entrenched in a lifestyle of substance abuse and violence.

The narrative follows Jack’s struggle as he faces the ultimatum of reforming within six weeks or serving a prison sentence.

The film marks the fifth

collaboration between Love and Dyer, known for their raw portrayal of British “lad” culture. This time, however, they explore themes of masculinity in crisis, presenting a more nuanced perspective on their previous works.

Stephanie Leonidas co-stars as Dani, Jack’s wife, offering a compelling performance that adds emotional depth to the storyline. Her character’s support for Jack is tested as she grapples

with his destructive behavior and the impact on their family.

“Marching Powder” has garnered attention for its unflinching depiction of drug use and its candid approach to sensitive subjects. The film holds an 18 certificate, reflecting its mature content and intense scenes. Despite its controversial elements, it provides a raw look into the challenges of breaking free from a cycle of addiction and violence.

The Alto Knights: A Riveting Tale of Mafia Rivalry

THE ALTo KNIGHTS, directed by Barry Levinson, is a biographical crime drama featuring Robert de Niro in a dual role as Mafia bosses Vito Genovese and Frank Costello.

Set in 1950s New York, the film explores the rise of Genovese, who betrays his former ally Costello in a bid for power, forcing Costello to retire and changing the criminal landscape.

The cast includes Debra Messing as Bobbie Costello and Kathrine Narducci as Anna Genovese, with Cosmo Jarvis and Michael Rispoli in supporting roles. The screenplay

is by Nicholas Pileggi, known for Goodfellas, and produced by Irwin Winkler and Barry Levinson.

Originally scheduled for release in February 2024, the film was delayed and will now premiere on March 21, 2025, in the U.S., distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The official trailer, released in January 2025, has been met with positive reactions, particularly for De Niro’s performance.

The Alto Knights promises to be a gripping Mafia drama. Mark your calendars for March 21, 2025, to experience this compelling saga.

Tech and Taff

META’S MESSY LEGACY

Once upon a time, Facebook was the darling of the internet—a place to reconnect, share updates, and poke people for no reason. I even visited its Menlo Park HQ, marvelled at the free food, and sneered at the “graffiti wall” where employees answered: What would you do if you weren’t afraid? (Say something negative about Facebook and not get fired?)Back then, Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook’s thenCOO, was at the helm, pushing corporate feminism through Lean In, a book that encouraged women to climb the ladder—without much mention of the systemic barriers blocking the way. Fast forward to today, and Sandberg’s legacy is crumbling, much like Facebook itself. A bombshell memoir, Careless People by ex-employee Sarah Wynn-Williams, lifts the lid on Meta’s toxic culture, painting a picture of corporate dysfunction, hypocrisy, and power gone unchecked.

Most of us already knew Zuckerberg was willing to bend democracy for profit, but the new claims about Sandberg are jawdropping. Allegedly racking up $13,000 in lingerie expenses and inviting an employee to share her bed on a company jet, her public image is taking a nosedive. The book also claims Zuckerberg sucked up to China, lied to

Congress, and turned a blind eye to Facebook’s role in fueling genocide in Myanmar.

Sandberg left Meta in 2022, officially stepping down from the board this year—reportedly after falling out with Zuckerberg, who allegedly blamed her for making Facebook “too feminine.” Just when it seemed she might quietly exit the stage, Careless People drags her back into the spotlight. Wynn-Williams describes witnessing an assistant curled up in Sandberg’s lap and being personally invited to share a bed with her boss. She declined.

Meta has dismissed the book as a mix of old claims and outright lies, branding Wynn-Williams a “disgruntled ex-employee.”

True or not, the overall theme is clear: Meta is a company where power demands obedience, and those at the top are rarely held accountable.

For years, Sandberg’s Lean In movement was hailed as progress, but Wynn-Williams argues it was just a clever corporate act—one that demanded loyalty rather than real change. And that’s a familiar tune, not just in tech, but across the corporate and political landscape we all navigate today.

Port Talbots got a Banksy

THE ToRCH THEATRE in Milford

Haven is set to present port Talbot Gotta Banksy, an urgent new play about the power of community, people, and the transformative nature of street art. The production will be showing from Tuesday, 20 May 2025.

The story begins in December 2018, when world-renowned artist Banksy surprised the industrial town of Port Talbot with a unique Christmas gift: one of his iconic murals, painted on the garage of a local steelworker’s home. The artwork quickly became an international sensation, bringing the town into the global spotlight.

Fast forward to 2024, and Port Talbot again finds itself making headlines.

The town bids farewell to its blast furnace steel-making heritage, a shift that marks the end of an era but also brings with it a sense of uncertainty about the future.

In the weeks following the unveiling of Banksy’s mural, Paul Jenkins and Tracy Harris of Theatr3 began speaking to local residents, collecting their thoughts and responses. What

started as a project focused on the first Banksy piece in Wales soon evolved into something much larger. Over six years, the project became a vivid portrayal of Port Talbot’s community, highlighting the town’s enduring character and resilience.

Now, the voices of Port Talbot’s people take centre stage in this compelling and compassionate verbatim play. Port Talbot Gotta Banksy brings their words to life, performed by a professional cast, offering a powerful snapshot of the community’s strength in the face of change and adversity.

Directed by Paul Jenkins, the play is a celebration of the town’s spirit and its ability to withstand whatever life throws at it. The production is a collaboration between Theatr3 and Sherman Theatre, supported by the National Theatre Studio and funded by the Arts Council of Wales.

Join us as the people of Port Talbot share their story in their own words, shedding light on a town that has weathered both the challenges of industrial decline and the surprise of an unexpected artistic legacy.

The History of Studio Ghibli

Join us at The Queens Hall on Friday, 14 March 2025, for The History of Studio Ghibli, an engaging talk suitable for ages 14 and above. Doors open at 7:00 pm, with tickets available from £16.00.

Studio Ghibli, founded by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, has revolutionised Japanese animation, with its films exhibited worldwide, including at the Academy of Motion Pictures Museum in Los Angeles and the Museum of Modern Art in Tokyo.

In this talk, Dr. Rayna Denison will explore the artistic legacy of Miyazaki

and Takahata, examining the influences that shaped films like My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and The Tale of Princess Kaguya (2013). Dr. Denison will reveal the rich sources of art and fine traditions that Ghibli films draw upon, as well as the lesser-known aspects of the studio’s operations, including the role of women in its productions and how music videos and commercials shaped young animators.

This fascinating talk offers a unique look at the art and industrial practices behind Japan’s most renowned animation studio.

RIGHT, gather round, you delightful rebels of the digital world, because I’ve got a tale to tell about a renaissance in the realm of hack-and-slash!

After a seven-year hiatus, a seven-year pilgrimage if you will, Omega Force and Koei Tecmo have finally breathed life into the Dynasty Warriors series with Dynasty Warriors: Origins, released on January 17, 2025. And this, my friends, is no ordinary return — it’s a rebirth, a bold step into uncharted territory, a departure from the familiar and a leap into the unknown!

Gone are the days of a hundred characters hurling their swords at you like a chaotic buffet of historical madness. No, no, Origins gives us something a little more intimate, a little more personal. Enter the Wanderer, the lone protagonist, a figure whose purpose is wrapped in mystery, his memories scattered across the tumultuous landscape of China’s Three Kingdoms period. Think of him as a sort of

amnesiac nomad, lost in a sea of ancient warfare, trying to piece together the fractured fragments of his past. The focus is sharper, like a lover’s whisper in the dark, and it allows for a more nuanced, deeper exploration of narrative and character than we’ve seen before.

And where does this epic tale take us? Well, it all kicks off with the Yellow Turban Rebellion — a historical moment of chaos and uprising — and leads us through some of the most iconic events in history: the rise of the tyrant Dong Zhuo, the birth of the Three Kingdoms, the clash of empires!

But here’s the kicker — your choices matter! Yes, you heard that right! Decisions you make along the way shape the story’s outcome, leading to multiple endings, which means replaying this beast is not just encouraged, it’s practically demanded. Now, let’s talk about the meat and potatoes of this digital feast — the gameplay! Oh, it’s not just a mindless hack-and-slash,

HOROSCOPES

no. There’s a sweet balance between strategic depth and the visceral thrill of battle. You’re not alone on this journey; you command troops, summon a companion general to lend a hand, and wield a vast array of weapons and customisations. There’s a proper sense of scale here too, with up to 10,000 soldiers on screen at once, like some grandiose vision of battle, an absolute assault on your senses!

Critics, naturally, have fallen head over heels for Dynasty Warriors: Origins. CGMagazine called it “the best entry in the Musou franchise in years,” a kind of revival, a breath of life injected into the very bones of the series. IGN, meanwhile, has applauded its “deep combat mechanics, engaging storyline, improved visuals, and replay value,” and I, for one, can’t help but agree. It’s a beautiful blend of the old and the new, a game that respects its roots while still reaching for the stars.

set up for romance, passion, and a renewed closeness to the ones you love. Better try to sneak some rest after work, because it’s probably going to be a late one.

LIBRA Today could get a little tricky, but only if you let it. The most important thing you can do is to separate yourself from negative energy, gloomy people, and harmful or depressing circumstances. That means no falling prey to anyone who’s jealous, resentful, or even plain old whiny. Offer advice, but if someone keeps coming up with reasons why they can’t take it, put some distance between you and the bad attitude. Fast.

SCoRPIo

You’ll be in the unique position of yielding to your elders today, and it may feel weird at first. So if you find yourself in the position of backing down from a dispute with an authority figure, don’t feel bad about it. Be proud of your wisdom and your ability to design to the sagacity of others. Respect is a quality that’s earned, and someday you’ll be the experienced leader.

SAGITTARIUS

Despite someone’s efforts to dissuade you, what you’re still after, first and foremost, is quiet time. You don’t want any noise, confusion, or ruckus from the maddening crowd. Right now, silence is the only thing you want to hear. That, and maybe the sound of running water, either hot and bubbling into your tub, or cold and flowing down the side of a tranquil mountain. Either way, enjoy!

CAPRICoRN

There’s definitely something to be said for keeping quiet when you have a wonderful secret, you know, the kind that keeps you grinning and staring out the window when you’re supposed to be working. Still, no one’s saying it’s going to be easy to bite your tongue. So if you absolutely must say something to someone, why not talk to your best friend? Remember, just your best friend, no one else.

AQUARIUS

You’re putting out some pretty high-octane vibes at the moment, attracting the attention of just about everyone who happens to amble by. Do them and yourself a favor. If you’re already attached or just not interested, don’t even think about flirting. And

Badger: Fade to Grey

TAx, readers. Nobody wants to pay it. Everyone thinks it’s too high. It doesn’t matter what the tax is: income tax, vAT, National Insurance (an income tax in all but name), Council Tax, corporation tax or (taking a wild swing) Inheritance Tax, all taxes are too high.

Let’s consider what the state does with taxes: it provides security, policing, the NHS, welfare benefits, old age pensions, social care, transport infrastructure, and just about every other essential service that citizens use.

Badger doesn’t know how many of those services or which his readers use, but here’s the bad news: taxes on working people are bound to increase. The reason for this is straightforward: the number of people of working age and below is falling as a percentage of the population, and the number of older people who do not work is growing.

Since the end of the Second World War, the UK has pursued economic shorttermism. Instead of ploughing receipts from surpluses, North Sea oil and gas, and privatisation to secure the UK’s long-term future, governments of all parties converted capital into revenue and revenue into tax cuts. That means that the services used by today’s pensioners and the state pensions paid to them are paid for by those who currently pay taxes.

To avoid doubt, National Insurance - as currently constituted - is a massive Ponzi scheme wherein investors (pensioners and those on benefits) are paid from current receipts. NI is a con. It should be recategorised as what it is: a tax on income and a tax on employment.

The alleged “contributory principle” is a sham. Consider the Winter Fuel Payment. Suppose you paid a full measure of NI during your working life and get the maximum state pension. In that case, you won’t get the Winter Fuel Payment unless you get other qualifying benefits or

exemptions. If, however, you did not pay National Insurance for the qualifying number of years, you will get the Winter Fuel Payment as you get Pension Credit. Pension Credit tops up your income to make its recipients only fractionally worse off than someone who paid NI contributions in full.

During the current tax year, Pension Credit guarantees a minimum of £218.15 for singles and £332.95 for couples. The State Pension for singles is £221.20 or around £440 for couples. The new state pension that applies if you retired after 2016 is less generous, with couples getting around £371 a week.

The difference between having to jump through hoops not to freeze to death in winter and getting a significant boost to your household income through a fuel subsidy is £3.05 if you’re single.

CoNTRIBUToRY pRINCIpLE, BE dAMNEd.

Not every pensioner needs the State Pension to make ends meet. You get it whether you’re stoney broke or a millionaire. Teaching, policing, the NHS, civil service, and local government have pension schemes funded by taxpayers. Some of those are generous.

In Pembrokeshire, the

Council raises around £130m via Council Tax. Almost one-quarter of that sum disappears into meeting its pension obligations. If you pay £2,000 per year in Council Tax, that’s £500 going to pay pension obligations. Bear in mind that the majority of Council employees also pay Council Tax. That means a wodge of their salary goes into paying for pensions, to which they’re already contributing through their salaries.

Sensing the green ink brigade jumping up and down and waving their knickers in the air, Badger points out that Pembrokeshire is unexceptional in the level of its pension contributions. Other Welsh councils pay more, and others pay less. Pembrokeshire is somewhere in the middle.

For some crackers reason, which doubtless made sense years ago but doesn’t now, the Local Government Pension Scheme is not managed centrally in a consolidated fund but by eighty separate bodies. The bulk of it is invested in overseas companies, meaning the funds under management do not support UK businesses or UK investments. As late as 2022, around £200m was invested in Russia.

The Scheme is expensive to run, with management fees as a percentage of the assets under control exceeding those charged in the private sector (£0.5bn in

2023/24).

In the private sector, payments into workplace pensions get a tax break at the input end (in the form of tax and NI reliefs) and a tax break at the output end (pension payments are not subject to NI, lump sum payments taken at the point of retirement are free from tax). This double tax break costs HMT billions each year and does not bar those contributing to private pensions from accessing precisely the same services and benefits as those of us who pay (or have paid) full NI on our earnings.

Governments’ traditional response to spiralling pension liabilities and an ageing population has been to ignore the chance to reduce the state pension bill (for example, by means-testing against other pension income) and to focus on saving the equivalent of pennies by targeting those on low incomes or who receive other welfare benefits.

If you think that’s unreasonable, please consider this, readers. Suppose you are a married couple who retired before April 2014 and get a combination of private or occupational pensions, paying out a total of £25,000 per year. In that case, you get the same £441 per week state pension as a couple who retired at the same time but don’t have private or occupational pensions. Blimey readers, even someone pulling down £250k a year in a personal pension is eligible for the state pension.

That is bonkers. It’s even more bonkers than managing government finances by hitting the poorest and most vulnerable in a vain attempt to make ends meet.

Saving £3bn a year, which the government claims it will do by hitting welfare claimants, is like pissing in the ocean of government debt. But never mind, readers, it will play well with pensioners. And there are more of them than ever. And they vote.

TRUMP’S CHINA BLUNDER

A SEAGULL’S vIEW FRoM MILFoRd HAvEN

A’IGHT, HUMANS! Gather round, ‘cause Stephen Seagull’s got a tale to tell, and it’s bigger than that time I found a whole battered sausage floating in the marina. Now, you lot might be flapping about Donald Trump’s latest tariffs on China, but let me tell you, over in Beijing, they’re not exactly losing feathers over it. In fact, the big gull at the top, Xi Jinping, is sitting pretty while Trump does his work for him.

See, Trump’s gone full bull-in-achina-shop (pun absolutely intended) on global trade again. He’s slapping tariffs on everything with a ‘Made in China’ label, thinking he’s playing hardball. And yeah, it stings China’s economy short-term, like when some toerag swipes your chips. But longterm? Oh, mate, Trump’s handing Xi Jinping a bigger prize than a trawler full of mackerel.

The orange one isn’t just picking fights with China – he’s having a pop at America’s allies, too. He’s rattling NATO, turning his back on Europe, and even eyeing up Canada and Greenland like they’re prime seagullnesting territory. This means the countries that usually back the US are now wondering if they should look elsewhere for a new best mate – and guess who’s waiting in the wings? That’s right: China, grinning like a cat that’s just raided the fishmonger.

Xi’s got a grand plan called ‘The China Dream’ (bit cheeky nicking slogans, but whatever). He wants to make China top dog—er, top gull—in the world, steering global politics and trade to suit Beijing’s interests. And for that, he needs the world to see the current system – led by the US and its allies – as broken. Lucky for him, Trump’s making that argument for him, like a seagull doing your homework and handing it in for free. Take Trump’s Ukraine plan, for example. He’s basically rolling out the red carpet for Russia, which makes

his European allies sweat. Then there’s his threats to Canada and Greenland—what’s next? Annexing Barry Island? The bloke’s running foreign policy like he’s doing dodgy property deals, and the only winner here is Xi, who’s watching the West tear itself apart.

China’s been pushing its ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ – a massive project linking countries in trade and infrastructure. It’s had some success, but it’s been slow going. Now, with Trump cutting off US aid and turning his back on international institutions, China can swoop in, play the good guy, and offer its own version of how the world should work. Trump’s practically written Xi’s next speech for

him!

Here’s the kicker: Trump’s ‘America First’ approach is doing the opposite. Instead of making America stronger, he’s making it look unreliable. And that’s the golden ticket for China to say, ‘See? We told you the US only looks out for itself!’ It’s like a seagull squawking about food wastage while secretly raiding the bins – clever tactics, gotta respect it.

So, while Trump thinks he’s taking China down a peg, he’s actually giving Xi everything he wants on a silver platter. A fractured West? Check. US allies looking for new partnerships? Check. A global south that’s more inclined to side with Beijing? Big fat check. The bloke’s practically running

a ‘Make China Great Again’ campaign without realising it.

Now, I don’t know much about politics – I’m a simple seagull who enjoys chips and chaos – but even I can see what’s happening here. Trump’s trying to be the big man, but he’s playing right into Xi’s claws. And when it comes to the long game, China’s got patience – like a seagull waiting outside a chippy at closing time.

So, humans, you lot best brace yourselves. Trump might think he’s being tough on China, but from where I’m perched, all he’s done is give Beijing the wind under its wings. Achafi! What a mess.

35% rise in sick and injured wild animals taken into RSPCA centres

Animal lovers urged to create wildlife-friendly gardens

THE NUMBER of sick and injured wild animals admitted to RSpCA centres has surged by 35% in just one year, prompting the charity to urge people across Wales to help wildlife by creating safer environments in their gardens and local green spaces.

In 2024, the RSPCA admitted a staggering 10,209 wild animals to its wildlife centres, compared to 7,519 in 2023. Meanwhile, the charity received 1,758 reports relating to wildlife from concerned individuals in Wales, with many of the rescued animals requiring rehabilitation at Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Cheshire and West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Somerse

Of the 1,758 calls made in Wales, the highest numbers came from Cardiff (256), Swansea (232), and Carmarthenshire (125).

The RSPCA’s wildlife centres care for thousands of animals each year, many of which are found in residential gardens suffering from injuries caused by common hazards such as netting entanglement and strimmer accidents.

The sharp rise in wildlife admissions follows an exceptionally busy year for the RSPCA. Across England and Wales, the charity responded to 40,003 incidents involving wild animals in 2024.

Public urged to help wildlife

The RSPCA is now encouraging the public to create wildlife-friendly gardens and community green spaces to offer a vital “lifeline” to struggling animals and ease the burden on the charity’s resources

RSPCA wildlife expert Rebecca Machin said: “These shocking wildlife admission numbers show that wild animals are facing huge challenges. We cannot tackle this alone, so we’re urgently asking the public to do their part to help.”

She added: “From removing hazardous netting to creating safe environments with ponds and wild areas, small changes in gardens can make a big difference. Everyone across Wales can do their bit, and these simple solutions could provide a lifeline for wildlife while also easing pressure on our dedicated teams on the frontline.”

Beyond gardens, the RSPCA is also encouraging people to get involved in litter-picking initiatives such as the Great British Spring Clean and to take part in projects like annual toad migration patrols.

“By working together, we can create a better world for every animal,” Machin added.

RSPCA’s top 10 tips for a wildlife-friendly garden

• Encourage ‘wild’ areas in gardens to attract insects.

• Avoid using netting, which can entangle and harm animals.

• Cover drains and turn watering cans upside down to prevent animals from falling in.

• Check for animals before mowing, strimming, or lighting bonfires.

• Provide logs, compost, and leaf piles to create shelter for insects and small mammals.

• Add a pond with easy access points to support amphibians and provide a natural water source.

• Create homes for wildlife, such as hedgehog shelters, bat boxes, birdhouses, and insect hotels. Leave out fresh, clean water and suitable food sources for wildlife.

• Avoid harmful pesticides and chemicals, keeping them securely stored.

• Plant native species to

encourage pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Wildlife rescue advice

If a small sick or injured wild animal is found, and it is safe to do so, members of the public are urged to take them directly to a vet for immediate assistance. More advice on supporting wildlife is available on the RSPCA’s website at www.rspca. org.uk/reportcruelty.

Reports of wildlife incidents in Wales (2024)

Cardiff – 256

Swansea – 232

Carmarthenshire – 125

Bridgend – 95

Conwy – 98

Pembrokeshire – 97

The Vale of Glamorgan – 103 Denbighshire – 89

Flintshire – 70

Newport – 69

Neath Port Talbot – 59

Rhondda Cynon Taf – 66

Wrexham – 36

Powys – 40

Ceredigion – 40

Gwynedd – 75

Isle of Anglesey – 40

Monmouthshire – 40

Blaenau Gwent – 16

Caerphilly – 44

Merthyr Tydfil – 34

Torfaen – 34

• Total reports: 1,758

• Most common garden mammals admitted

• Species Admissions

• Hedgehogs 2,275

• Red foxes 176

• Common pipistrelle bats 130

• Badgers 69

• Grey squirrels 43

College learners inspired by St Fagans museum visit

LEARNERS from the UAL Level 3 & 4 Foundation diploma in Art and design course at pembrokeshire College recently embarked on an enriching cultural study visit to St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff. The visit provided an invaluable opportunity for learners to gather source material, which they later developed into

time periods. The immersive experience allowed learners to engage with diverse architectural styles, objects, and environments, deepening their understanding of Welsh cultural heritage.

Inside the museum, learners explored artefacts showcasing traditional crafts such as weaving, embroidery, pottery, wood carving, blacksmithing, and furniture-making, all of which highlight the richness of Welsh cultural identity both past and present.

The visit coincided with temporary exhibitions. ‘The Wool Coat’ project, for instance, explored sustainability and cultural heritage through the repurposing of Welsh blankets into contemporary garments. This project also involved the independent Cardiff-based printmaking studio ‘Printhaus,’ which designed screen printed lining fabrics. Learners were particularly engaged by the project’s social impact, as it also provided sewing skills to immigrants in Cardiff to help with workplace integration. Issues of sustainability, re-use, culture, traditional skills and immigration were addressed through this multi-faceted project.

Another art installation explored colonialism featuring furniture once owned by ‘Clive of India,’ the installation highlighted the powerful role of visual artists in raising awareness of injustice and driving cultural change. Adding to the dynamic experience, learners witnessed the film industry in action as a production team adapted historic buildings and filmed scenes for ‘Young Sherlock,’ offering a fascinating glimpse into how historical settings can be reimagined for contemporary storytelling.

Back in the College print workshop, learners translated their observations into a collaborative screen-printed banner. They explored both hand-stencil and photographic exposure techniques to create a bold visual response to their visit. The final design reflected elements of the day’s experience, incorporating imagery gathered through drawing and photography.

A highlight of the visit was the warm praise from members of the public, who sought out staff to commend the learners on their conduct, their consideration for others and their interest in and engagement with the Museum and staff members.

Sinclair editor@herald.email

creative works through screen printing workshops back at the College.

The outdoor museum features a remarkable collection of relocated and reconstructed historical buildings from across Wales, spanning a variety of

We are incredibly proud of our learners and their ability to translate this inspiring experience into innovative artistic outcomes in such a short period of time. Their visit to St Fagans has not only expanded their creative practice but also deepened their appreciation for Welsh cultural heritage and the role of art in shaping contemporary discourse.

This impressive banner is now proudly on display in the College’s atrium.

Tom

Kurtz applauded by farmers following Senedd speech

AppLAUSE from the public gallery followed a speech by Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz as he urged the UK Labour Government to scrap planned changes to Agricultural property Relief (ApR).

The debate saw Welsh Conservatives and Plaid Cymru unite in calling on the Welsh Labour Government to press Westminster to reconsider the policy, which has sparked concern among Welsh farmers.

The removal of APR could force Welsh family farms to sell off land to cover inheritance tax following the death of a farm owner, jeopardising profitability, impacting farmers’ mental health, and opening the door for companies to acquire farmland for greenwashing purposes.

Following the debate, Samuel Kurtz said: “It is shocking that the Welsh Labour Government remains silent on the issue of APR. Even Welsh Labour MPs have recently voiced their support for reviewing this decision.

“The Welsh First Minister met with the Chancellor, the very person leading these changes, yet raised none of the concerns of Welsh farmers.

I believe this is a dereliction of duty from a First Minister who

is supposed to represent all of Wales and all of its people.

“We had the opportunity, as a Senedd, to send a unified message down the M4 to

Westminster in support of our farmers, but Labour chose not to take it.

“We must continue applying pressure on both the Welsh and

UK Labour Governments. Once family farms are sold off, they will be lost forever, depleting the rural communities that are so much the lifeblood of Wales.”

Annual figures show headline changes in trade trends

TRENdS underlying the red meat trade figures released for 2024 reveal likely and significant impacts on both beef and lamb domestic and export market dynamics in the future.

Recently released UK trade figures are the focus for this month’s Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales’ (HCC) Market Bulletin.

They show UK beef production increased by four per cent while sheep meat production declined by seven per cent in 2024. The rise in beef production was driven by a three per cent increase in total throughput, while the number of sheep and lambs processed fell by eight per cent compared to 2023 data.

“These changes in domestic production, recorded by Defra, have directly impacted the availability of meat for export and contributed to notable shifts in red meat trade dynamics in 2024,” commented Glesni Phillips, HCC’s Intelligence, Analysis & Business Insight Executive.

HMRC figures indicate UK sheep meat exports totalled around 79,500 tonnes, down some six per cent from 2023. However, the total value of these exports rose by seven per cent, reaching £582.8 million.

“This was likely due to strong UK and global farmgate prices,” said Glesni. “Subdued volumes are possibly a result of tight domestic supplies, with production

falling by seven per cent in the UK to 266,500 tonnes.

“Despite this, export levels in 2024 were higher than both 2022 and 2021. Exports to both the EU and non-EU markets fell, with Ireland and Germany seeing the largest decreases in tonnage.”

UK imports of sheep meat surged by forty per cent on the year, reaching 67,880 tonnes – the highest level since 2018.

“This was driven primarily by increased imports from New Zealand - up 14,300 tonnes - and Australia - up 6,500 tonnes,” said Glesni. These two markets now account for 86 per cent of UK sheep meat imports, up from 78 per cent in 2023.

“The rise in imports reflects lower prices from the Southern Hemisphere along with the new Free Trade Agreements, a tight domestic supply and record level deadweight prices in the UK. Imports have grown in order to meet demand – which has spiked around key religious festivals,” observed Glesni.

Further HMRC data identified the UK exported nearly 113,000 tonnes of beef during 2024, a nine per cent year-onyear increase. The total value of these exports grew by 16 per cent, reaching £567.2million.

“This growth was largely driven by increased shipments to France, Canada,

and the Netherlands,” said Glesni.

Ireland remained the top destination for UK beef but its share dropped from 34 per cent in 2023 to 29 per cent, with a seven per cent decrease in imports to 32,500 tonnes. UK beef imports also rose during the year, with volumes up eight per cent to 240,700 tonnes. The value of these imports increased on the year by 11 per cent, reaching to £1.4 billion. Ireland remained the main supplier and the volume of Irish beef imported grew by 13 per cent. Shipments from both New Zealand and Australia also saw growth and accounted for almost 50 per cent of volumes from non-EU countries.

Export data for the year showed the total value of red meat (fresh/frozen) exports from Wales reached £277.4 million – nine per cent higher than a year earlier. Beef exports were also estimated to be nine per cent higher, reaching almost 16,000 tonnes, with their value also rising by 16 per cent. For sheep meat, domestic supply constraints led to a seven per cent decrease in export volumes to an estimated 27,200 tonnes.

“Despite this decline, the value of sheep meat exports increased by six per cent on the year, driven by stronger farmgate prices,” said Glesni.

The Market Bulletin can be found on the HCC website: https://meatpromotion. wales/en/market-intelligence/marketbulletin/

Dairy farmer urges the industry to seize CPD opportunities

CoNTINUING professional development (Cpd) is an anticipated mandatory requirement for all farm businesses in Wales which enter the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). due to start on 1 January next year, the version of the SFS currently being considered includes the requirement to complete a minimum of six hours of learning, plus an element of Health & Safety, every year, for each business.

Well-known Pembrokeshire dairy farmer Stephen James, FRAgS of Gelliolau, Clynderwen says this is a positive step forward for Welsh farming. Mr James welcomed the Welsh Government’s response to the last SFS consultation, which resulted in a decision to make the training requirement more flexible and inclusive by including short courses, online training modules, attendance at demonstration days, discussion groups and other knowledge transfer activities eligible for CPD.

Committing to learning will help equip farmers and all those working in the land-based industries with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and prosper in today’s rapidly changing rural landscape,” says Mr James, who was recently awarded Lantra Cymru’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Most professions insist on some level of CPD and this approach will benefit Welsh agriculture significantly, helping farmers to stay viable, resilient and competitive.

“Whatever age we are and however experienced we might me, the onus is on us as an industry to have the mindset that embraces personal development, which in turn leads to business development.”

Working together will create a professional, efficient and sustainable sector

“Welsh Government provides a wealth of support for rural businesses and thanks to organisations including Farming Connect, Lantra Cymru, our levy boards and others, the industry is working collaboratively to create a more professional, efficient and sustainable farming sector that can adapt to changing policies and market demands while achieving the highest standards of environmental stewardship.

“If we fail to take advantage of all this support and don’t

learn about innovation, invest in new technologies, adopt best practice and find more efficient, cost-effective ways of sustainable land, livestock and business management, we risk losing out in today’s evolving markets.

“To safeguard the future of family farms for future generations, we need to focus on farming sustainably and comply with regulations, alongside working towards stronger business performance and achieving optimum productivity levels,” said Mr. James.

Finding solutions to challenges

Mr James, a well-known and well-respected rural figurehead, combines hands-on regenerative farming at the 600acre family dairy farm he runs in partnership with his son Daniel, alongside numerous publicfacing roles. A passionate advocate for young and new entrants, Mr James has been at the forefront of rural affairs in Wales for over 40 years.

Chair of the Wales Animal Health & Welfare Framework since 2018, he is a past president of the NFU Cymru, remains closely associated with Wales YFC and has served with numerous agricultural organisations, not only within Wales but internationally. He has advised both the Welsh and UK Governments, former European Commission bodies and remains a vocal and influential figure within many of agriculture’s key stakeholder organisations, including through his longstanding membership of the Farming Connect Programme Board.

“We all recognise that our industry is under pressure. Climate and nature emergencies, market pressures, changing consumer demands and the requirement for sustainable land management which protects the

As the lambing season gets underway, it’s a busy time of year for Welsh farmers, and whilst the sense of new life fills the air, many challenges continue to emerge that threaten the viability of the farming sector.

environment, present us all with daily challenges.

“If we stay informed, we stay prepared, we stay adaptable and resilient,” said Mr James who emphasised that it is the responsibility of all those working in the land-based sectors to take full advantage of the wealth of support, guidance, events and training that’s available.

“The level of support available in Wales is the envy of many other farming nations and it’s essential we make full use of this.”

Stay informed, prepared and adaptable

“The transition to the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) heralds change but brings new opportunities too and will transform the way we manage our land, our livestock and our businesses for the better across all sectors, combining sustainable land management with profitability.

“As environmental custodians, it is our responsibility to professionalise and modernise the industry, to protect what we have for the next generation – upskilling must be a key component of this,” said Mr. James.

Eligible farmers registered with Farming Connect can access a range of fullyfunded or subsidised training options including face-to-face accredited courses, e-learning modules and knowledge transfer options from key industry experts including Animal Health & Welfare training workshops, all eligible for CPD.

For further information on Farming Connect’s skills, training and knowledge transfer provision, visit https:// businesswales.gov.wales/ farmingconnect/business/skillsand-training or contact your local development officer.

Last week, Hungary confirmed its first footand-mouth disease (FMD) case in more than 50 years, just two months after the virus appeared in a herd of water buffalo in Germany. For Welsh farmers, mention of the disease will be a cause of alarm, with memories of the 2001 outbreak, and the disease’s farreaching impact on farms, the rural economy and our communities still very much alive.

Responding to the case, the UK Government has stepped up measures to prevent the spread of the disease - preventing the commercial import from Hungary and neighbouring Slovakia of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, as well as untreated products including fresh meat and dairy.

Whilst the Farmers’ Union of Wales has welcomed these steps, as we’ve warned on several occasions, this recent development is also a timely reminder of the desperate need to increase security measures and vigilance to combat illegal meat imports.

These illegal imports pose significant risks to animal health and the UK’s biosecurity. The magnitude of the problem was displayed last year, with almost 100 tonnes of illegal meat seized at the Port of Dover in 2024. The

alarming figure reflected a substantial increase on 2023’s figuresreflecting a worrying trend.

The need for stringent biosecurity measures are not only important in combating the potential spread of foot-and-mouth disease, but also a range of other threats, including African swine fever. Any weakness in our borders could have catastrophic consequences on our agriculture sector, and in light of the recent foot-and-mouth cases in mainland Europe, the UK Government should be ramping up efforts to combat these illegal trades.

Whilst we will keep a close eye on developments on the continent regarding foot-and-mouth, closer to home other diseases continue to pose uncertainty for our farmers. In particular, Bluetounge, an infectious disease which affects sheep, cattle and other ruminants, continues to be a worry, despite Wales currently remaining free of the disease.

To this end, the Farmers’ Union of Wales welcomed the recent decision by the Welsh Government to approve the emergency use of three Bluetongue-3 vaccines from the first of March this year to mitigate the impact on livestock. In light of this development, farmers should remain vigilant to clinical signs of Bluetongue, and those considering vaccination should consult with their veterinary surgeon to discuss whether vaccination is appropriate for their livestock.

Kia EV3 crowned UK Car of the Year 2025

THE Kia Ev3 has been named ‘UK Car of the Year 2025’. The award follows Ev3 topping the ‘Small Crossover’ category on 20 February, which automatically shortlisted the brand’s latest Ev for the overall prize of ‘UK Car of the Year 2025’.

The UK Car of the Year Awards are an independent set of awards, voted for by a 31-strong jury of industry experts, working across the UK on automotive, business and tech publications. The EV3’s success follows in the footsteps of its larger sibling, the EV9, which took home the trophies for ‘Large Crossover’ and overall ‘UK Car of the Year’ in last year’s awards.

Paul Philpott, President & CEO of Kia UK, commented:

“We’re delighted to once again be victorious winning the outright UK Car of the Year Award with EV3. This follows our success in 2024 with EV9. These consecutive awards clearly demonstrate Kia’s strong leadership in electrification, the genuine demand from UK customers and the quality of our product line up. With this outstanding recognition and our increasing order bank, we and our dealer partners are confident EV3 will continue being a popular and accessible choice for the growing number

of people switching to electric.”

John Challen, Co-chairman of the UK Car of the Year Awards: “With this car, Kia has successfully grown its EV portfolio, following the success of the EV6 and the UK Car of the Year 2024, the EV9. Securing back-to-back successes in this competition has only been achieved once before, which shows the outstanding attributes and appeal of the Kia

EV3, which emerged victorious from a strong field of finalists. The specification, driving range and distinctive interior and exterior styling are just three EV3 elements that impressed our panel of experts.”

This recognition continues the EV3s string of success since its launch at the end of 2024, having also being named a finalist for European Car of the Year and a finalist for the

2025 World Car Awards, with the final three nominees due to be announced later in March.

The EV3 is Kia’s newest EV on sale in the UK and represents the next step in the company’s ‘Plan S’ strategy. With a range of up to 375 miles* on a single charge, the EV3 offers the longest range of Kia’s electric vehicle line-up, in the most compact package.

Volkswagen provides preview of entry-level electric model

WoLFSBURG – Since the Beetle, volkswagen has been enabling affordable mobility for millions of people with compact and likeable cars. Now, with the world premiere of the Id. EvERY11 show car, the German car manufacturer is presenting an entry-level all-electric model. volkswagen will launch the production version in 2027 – with a starting price of around 20,000 euros. The Id. 2all1 will be launched in the 25,000 euro class as early as in 2026. Both models are part of the new Electric Urban Car Family with front-wheel drive, which is being developed under the umbrella of the Core brand group in the volkswagen Group. They are based on volkswagen’s new modular electric drive platform: the MEB with front-wheel drive.

Maximum variety: attractive mobility in the electric era from Europe for Europe is one of the central pillars of the brand’s plan for the future. With the European launch of the allelectric Urban Car Family from 2026, Volkswagen will offer the most diverse portfolio in the high-volume segment – from efficient combustion-engine models and advanced hybrids to future-oriented all-electric vehicles.

Thomas Schäfer: “The ID. EVERY1 represents the last piece of the puzzle on our way to the widest model selection in the volume segment. We will then offer every customer the right car with the right drive system –including affordable all-electric entrylevel mobility,” says Schäfer. “Our goal is to be the world’s technologically leading high-volume manufacturer by 2030. And as a brand for everyone – just as you would expect from Volkswagen.”

Focus on people. “In the future model, we talk about Customer Defined Vehicles. The ID. EVERY1 shows that we are putting our customers, their wishes, interests and preferences at the centre of vehicle development more consistently than ever,” says Kai Grünitz, member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development. The production version of the ID. EVERY1 will be the first model in the entire Group to use a fundamentally new, particularly powerful software architecture. This means that the future entry-level Volkswagen can be equipped with new functions throughout its entire life cycle if its users so wish. Even after purchase of a new car, the vehicle can

still be individually adapted to their needs.

Characteristic design with charisma and identity. The up! – the immediate predecessor of the ID. EVERY1 – built until 2023 still impresses today with its clear, unmistakable design. The new Volkswagen design language also picks up on characteristic elements in the EVERY1. Volkswagen Head of

Design Andreas Mindt: “Our ambition was to create something bold yet accessible. The ID. EVERY1 has a self-assured appearance but remains likeable – thanks to details such as the dynamic front lights and the ‘smiling’ rear. These design elements make it more than just a car: they give it character and an identity that people can relate to.”

Female entrepreneurs championed in economic growth drive

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs as a key driver of economic growth during International Women’s day celebrations.

Economy, Energy and Planning Secretary Rebecca Evans made the pledge while visiting Deploy Tech, an innovative Welsh manufacturing company co-founded by awardwinning entrepreneur Beren Kayali.

The Pontyclun-based company produces pioneering portable water storage tanks used in critical infrastructure protection, climate resiliency, defence, and disaster relief. It highlights the innovation and success of female-led businesses in Wales.

Deploy Tech has received support through the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme to expand into international markets, including India and Europe. Government support for women in business

Speaking during her visit, the Economy Secretary said: “Female entrepreneurs contribute significantly to Wales’

economic success, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. From tech start-ups to social enterprises, female business leaders are shaping the future of our economy.

“Deploy Tech shows exactly how Welsh businesses are delivering solutions to global challenges while creating highquality jobs here in Wales. It is a perfect example of what can be achieved when we support talented women to reach their full potential in business.”

Beren Kayali, co-founder of Deploy Tech, said: “Women are not a quota to fill; we never were. We are scientists, engineers, lawyers, teachers, doctors— you name it—full of passion and ambition. We are humans with careers who have faced countless setbacks, failures, and sleepless nights, but we kept waking up and kept going.”

Roundtable discussion on business support

Following the visit, Kayali joined other successful female business leaders from across Wales for a roundtable hosted by the Economy Secretary.

The event brought together entrepreneurs who

have benefited from Welsh Government support through Business Wales, Social Business Wales, and Creative Wales. Discussions focused on key priorities, including skills development and investment opportunities.

The Economy Secretary added: “We want to ensure female entrepreneurs can break down barriers and access targeted support as we build a fairer, more prosperous Wales where talent and innovation can thrive regardless of gender.”

Pembrokeshire Pie wins top spot in British Pie Week contest

A NEW take on the traditional pembrokeshire pie has been crowned the winner of a national contest to create new regional pies as part of British pie Week (March 3–9).

The competition, organised by Swiss kitchenware brand Zyliss, aimed to fill in the gaps on a comprehensive map of UK pies. People from across the country were invited to submit ingredient suggestions that best represented their region, with hundreds of ideas flooding in.

Following a live tasting session at Divertimenti Cookery School in London, hosted by MasterChef 2020 winner Thomas Frake, five new regional pies were shortlisted for the final vote.

The final five pies

• The Sussex Lob-star Pie – a luxurious shellfish pie featuring lobster from the Sussex coast, paired with broccoli and a rich, creamy filling.

• The Yorkshire Wensleydale & Leek Pie – combining Wensleydale cheese with sweet leeks in a golden

pastry crust.

• The Ayrshire Haggis & Neeps Pie – a Scottishinspired blend of haggis, mashed neeps, and peppery gravy with a splash of whisky.

• The Pembrokeshire Lamb & Laverbread Pie – a taste of Wales using tender Welsh lamb and the umami richness of traditional laverbread.

• The Armagh Pork, Bramley Apple & Irish Whiskey Pie –featuring Armagh Bramley apples, locally sourced

pork, and a splash of Irish whiskey.

After guests sampled each pie and cast their votes, the Pembrokeshire Lamb & Laverbread Pie emerged as the winner. Judges praised its rich flavour and authentic representation of Welsh culinary heritage, offering a fresh twist on the traditional Pastai Penfro.

‘A worthy winner’

Thomas Frake said: “The Pembrokeshire Pie was a fitting testament to the tastes

of the region – with exceptional Welsh lamb mixed with local favourite laverbread to create a genuinely delicious pie. A worthy winner!”

Heidi Thomas, Head of Marketing at DK Household Brands, which includes Zyliss, said the contest aimed to celebrate Britain’s rich piemaking traditions.

“The UK’s pie history is rich in tradition, with some fantastic regional pies out there. We wanted to honour that heritage by filling in the blank spaces as best we could,” she said.

More pies to come?

She added that while the map was as comprehensive as possible, there is room for more regional pies.

“Although enjoying five fantastic pies was clearly a tough task, we were able to dig deep and find a winner in the hotly contested yet very deserving Pembrokeshire Pie,” she said.

The full recipes for the top five pies can be found on the Zyliss website at zyliss.co.uk/ blogs/recipes/regional-piefilling-recipes.

For more information about Zyliss, visit www.zyliss.co.uk.

Welsh shop workers face rising abuse

RETAIL workers in Wales are facing increasing levels of abuse, threats, and violence, according to new figures released by the shop workers’ union, Usdaw. The latest survey, published on Tuesday (March 5), shows that incidents remain at double pre-pandemic levels, highlighting a growing crisis in the sector.

Usdaw’s survey of 540 Welsh retail staff found that in the past year:

• 73% have experienced verbal abuse (compared to a national average of 77%).

• 42% were threatened by a customer (53%).

• 7% were assaulted (10%).

Usdaw says retail crime is out of control and that workers are being left to face the consequences of lax enforcement.

‘They just laugh at us’

Workers shared shocking accounts of their experiences:

“Refused sale of alcohol, told to ‘f**k

off’ and threatened by five people that I’d get beaten up when my shift finished.”

“Spat at, pushed against a wall. Punched and threatened with a knife.”

“Been punched in the face, kicked under my chin and had stitches. Wrist sprained and products thrown at me,

knocking me to the floor.”

“Shoplifters just laugh in our faces as they leave with bags full of washing powder. They don’t care anymore because they know we can’t do anything.”

Usdaw General Secretary Paddy Lillis said: “Welsh retail workers are suffering far too many incidents of violence, abuse, and threats. No-one should feel afraid to go to work, but our evidence shows that too many retail workers are. It is shocking that over three-quarters of our members working in retail are being abused, threatened, and assaulted for simply doing their job and serving the community.”

Calls for action

Usdaw is backing new government measures to tackle retail crime, including the Crime and Policing Bill, currently going through Parliament. The union is pushing for the removal of the £200 minimum threshold for prosecuting shoplifters and the introduction of Respect Orders to protect retail workers. The first debate and vote on the bill is scheduled for Monday (March 10).

Usdaw represents around 360,000 workers across the retail, transport, and manufacturing sectors. Its Freedom from Fear Campaign seeks to prevent violence and abuse against shop workers by pressuring the government for tougher action.

Wales tourism industry criticises lack of support in Welsh Government budget

THE WALES ToURISM ALLIANCE (WTA) has welcomed some elements of the Welsh Government’s latest budget but has raised concerns over what it describes as a lack of financial support for the tourism sector.

The WTA has praised the additional funding allocated to health and social care, as well as the introduction of a £1 bus ticket pilot for under-21s. It highlighted that many young people in Wales start their careers in tourism and hospitality, and this initiative will make public transport more accessible, helping their earnings go further.

However, the alliance is disappointed by the continued lack of investment in tourism, an industry that contributes approximately £3.8 billion annually to the Welsh economy. It is calling for more funding for visitor infrastructure and greater promotion of Wales as a destination.

Instead, the sector is facing what it describes as “punitive” policies from the Welsh Government, including the requirement for holiday lets to be occupied for at least 182 days a year to qualify for business rates and the proposed visitor levy.

CoNCERNS ovER ToURISM poLICIES

The 182-day rule, introduced to ensure that holiday lets contribute to the local economy rather than sitting empty, has been met with opposition

from tourism businesses. Many in the sector argue that meeting such occupancy levels is unrealistic in certain areas, particularly in rural Wales, where seasonal tourism is dominant.

The proposed visitor levy, which would allow local authorities to impose a per-person, per-night charge on overnight stays, is another source of concern. The Welsh Government argues that the levy, which is common in other tourist destinations worldwide, will generate up to £33 million annually to fund local infrastructure and tourism services.

However, the WTA and business owners fear that the charge will discourage visitors and place further financial pressure on the industry at a time when businesses are already struggling with rising costs. Ashford Price from the National Showcaves Centre has described the proposal as “utter insanity,” warning that it could add up to £35 to a family’s weekly stay and significantly impact tourismdependent communities.

poLITICAL REACTIoN

Andrew RT Davies, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, has strongly opposed the visitor levy, calling it “punitive” and warning that it will make visiting Wales more expensive during a cost-of-living crisis.

The Welsh Government has defended its policies, arguing that they are necessary to balance

economic growth with sustainability and fairness to local communities.

Mark Drakeford, in his role as finance secretary, has highlighted that such levies are standard practice in many international tourist destinations and provide a reliable revenue stream for reinvesting in tourism-related infrastructure.

BUSINESS RESpoNSE

Business organisations have expressed a mixed reaction to the budget. While they welcome some measures, such as the continuation of the 40% business rates relief for the retail, leisure, and hospitality sectors, they have called for more

targeted support. Industry leaders want improvements to the planning process, greater business support for growth, and further reforms to the business rates system to help smaller businesses.

With tourism contributing significantly to the Welsh economy, industry representatives argue that the government must do more to protect businesses from financial pressures and ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.

The WTA has urged the Welsh Government to reconsider its approach and work with the industry to create policies that support rather than hinder tourism in Wales.

GPs to play key role in NHS transformation

Gps in Wales will have a vital role in tackling NHS waiting lists and improving patient care, Health Secretary Jeremy Miles will tell the Welsh Local Medical Committees Conference on Saturday (Mar 8).

He will say the coming year must focus on transforming healthcare delivery to ensure more treatment is available closer to home. As part of this shift, GPs will take a more active role in managing waiting lists and expanding diagnostic testing in communities to ease hospital pressures.

A new initiative aimed at improving continuity of care will begin by identifying the most vulnerable patients who would benefit from seeing the same health professional at each appointment. The approach is expected to improve outcomes for people with chronic conditions and support efforts to keep more patients well at home.

With more diagnostic and treatment services moving out of hospitals and into local settings, Miles will acknowledge that funding must follow. Health boards will be required to increase and declare primary care spending to support the shift.

Gp RESpoNSE

While the Welsh Government is keen to shift more responsibilities to primary care, GPs have expressed concerns

about workload distribution and financial support.

In January, the BMA’s Welsh GP committee accepted a revised General Medical Services (GMS) contract, which included an additional £23 million in stabilisation payments, bringing total additional investment for 2024/25 to £52.1 million. The contract ensures fair pay for practice staff, including a 6% uplift for GP partners and salaried GPs.

Dr. Gareth Oelmann, chair of the BMA’s Welsh GP committee,

said: “This settlement does not resolve every issue, but it provides a solid foundation for future negotiations.”

GPs in Wales are also set to vote on a proposal requiring partners to provide a minimum number of clinical sessions, aimed at ensuring consistent patient care across practices.

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: “It is vital we work together to address the pressures in our NHS by improving access to care and patient flow through the system.

“The role of GPs is fundamental to bringing the system back into balance. This is not about general medical services taking on more and more but about commissioning services in a way that makes primary care sustainable.

“GPs are at the heart of their communities. I want to work with them to develop a system that values their expertise, provides them with the right tools, and ensures patients receive the care they need closer to home.”

Reeves has ‘one month’ to prevent £759m tax rise for Wales’ health sector

LIB dEMS CALL FoR ExEMpTIoN oF

HEALTH ANd SoCIAL CARE FRoM NATIoNAL INSURANCE HIKE

have not committed to extending this support to other health and care providers, including care homes, GPs, and dentists. Recent protests in Westminster saw thousands calling for action on social care, including the scrapping of the tax hike for care providers. The Liberal Democrats are pressing for an exemption to be announced in the upcoming Spring Statement before the tax rise takes effect on April 6.

IMpACT oN CARE pRovIdERS

The financial strain on care providers is becoming increasingly evident. Glan Rhos Nursing Home in Brynsiencyn anticipates a £127,500 increase in costs due to the NI hike, representing a 10% rise in their expenses. Similarly, Cariad Care Homes in Gwynedd projects an additional £95,795 in NI contributions, equating to an extra £56 per resident per week.

‘A JoBS TAx BoMBSHELL’

Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster spokesperson David Chadwick MP said:

“Rachel Reeves has just one month to save health and social care from this jobs tax bombshell.

Health and care providers in Wales, including dentists, GPs, and care homes, are set to be hit with an additional £147.1

THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS have urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to exempt the health and social care sector from an impending National Insurance tax rise, warning that Welsh providers face a £759 million increase over the next five years.

million in National Insurance contributions next year. By the end of the decade, this annual cost is expected to rise to £159.7 million, significantly burdening the sector.

The UK Government has pledged to cover the rise in Employer’s National Insurance for the NHS. However, ministers

“Since the Chancellor’s failed budget, I have spoken to healthcare providers in Wales, and their message is clear: this tax rise could deny vulnerable people the care they need.

“Social care is on its knees, GP waiting times are soaring, and NHS dentistry is on the brink of extinction in Wales. Years of Welsh Labour neglect are being compounded by these extra costs.

“Pride should not stand in the way of doing what is right. The voices of health and social care providers across Wales must be heard, and this tax must be scrapped.

“Rachel Reeves must announce this exemption in the Spring Statement on April 6 or risk throwing care providers and those who rely on them to the wolves.”

GovERNMENT RESpoNSE

A UK Government spokesperson defended the tax policy, stating:

“The decision to increase National Insurance contributions was made to ensure a sustainable funding model for public services, including the NHS and social care. The government has already committed to covering this rise for the NHS, and further support for other healthcare providers is under review.

“We remain committed to strengthening the health and social care sector, and we continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure the sector is supported in the best possible way.”

Supporters of the tax rise argue that it is necessary to ensure long-term funding stability for vital public services. Critics, however, warn that without exemptions, independent healthcare providers could face financial strain, potentially leading to service reductions.

Welsh Government considers Scottish-style income tax changes

THE WELSH GovERNEMNT is exploring potential changes to Wales’ income tax system, with Finance Secretary Mark drakeford commissioning a review into whether a more flexible model, similar to Scotland’s, could be adopted.

Speaking in the Senedd during the Final Budget debate, Drakeford described the current system as too “blunt” and confirmed that “the work has already begun” to examine alternative approaches. He revealed that he had met with the Scottish Finance Secretary to discuss how Scotland has used its wider tax powers.

A more ‘progressive’ system?

At present, Wales can only adjust income tax rates within the existing basic, higher, and additional bands set by the UK Government. The Scottish model, however, allows for more variation, including:

• An intermediate rate of 21% on incomes between £26,562 and £43,662.

• A higher rate of 42% on

incomes between £43,663 and £75,000.

• An advanced rate of 45% on incomes between £75,001 and £125,140.

The SNP-led Scottish Government has announced that, from April, it will impose the

highest income tax rates in the UK for anyone earning over £30,318. While no specific proposals have been announced for Wales, Drakeford’s comments have fuelled speculation that a similar system could be introduced. Opposition concerns Welsh Conservatives have

strongly opposed the prospect of increased taxation. Sam Rowlands, the party’s Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance, warned: “Further Labour tax rises on hardworking Welsh people would be a disaster for Wales.”

Andrew RT Davies, former leader of the Welsh Tories, also voiced concerns, stating: “The last thing Wales needs is higher and more complex taxes.”

The Welsh Government has not confirmed whether any changes would mean tax rises, but Drakeford emphasised that the review aims to assess whether a more progressive tax system could benefit public services and economic growth.

No immediate changes

While discussions are ongoing, no firm decisions have been made, and any reforms would require extensive consultation. The Herald understands that the Welsh Government is in the early stages of reviewing its options, with further details expected later this year.

Delays to Wales’ tribunal system ‘deeply troubling’

SENEdd Members urged ministers to press ahead with urgently needed reforms of the Welsh tribunal system or risk leaving the courts unable to cope with demand.

Adam Price, Plaid Cymru’s shadow justice minister, warned the clock is ticking on the Welsh Government’s proposals to modernise and unify Wales’ tribunal system.

The proposals followed 2021 recommendations for reform from the Law Commission, which warned the devolved tribunals evolved haphazardly and “it is difficult to call them a ‘system’”.

But, with only a year to go until the next Senedd election, the Welsh Government has rejected calls to commit to bringing forward a tribunal bill before the end of term.

Mr Price, whose partner is a judge in the non-devolved tribunal system, described ministers’ refusal to commit to the “absolutely crucial” legislation as deeply troubling.

“We need this legislation now,” he said. “It’s essential to resolve the significant operational, financial and administrative challenges facing Welsh tribunals today.

“Delaying this essential legislation is not prudent governance. It’s negligence,

actually.

“It risks leaving our tribunals unable to cope with current demands, let alone future responsibilities, such as youth justice or education appeals. It weakens Wales’ justice infrastructure and compromises our commitment to fair and accessible justice.”

Contributing to a debate on the Welsh tribunal president’s annual report, Mr Price called for full transparency around plans to devolve further parts of the justice system to Wales.

He said: “Anything less, in our view, would be an abdication of responsibility – leaving Wales’ justice system underserved, undervalued and ill-prepared for the challenges ahead.”

Labour’s Mike Hedges, who chairs the Senedd’s justice committee, similarly stressed the importance of introducing legislation on tribunals as soon as possible.

The Tories’ Paul Davies echoed this position. He also raised concerns about training, with the judicial college having no remit to train devolved tribunal members.

“My concern is this mirrors slow progress with the reform of

the Welsh tribunals,” he said. He added that use of the Welsh language remains low in the legal system.

Mr ab Owen warned: “If it doesn’t happen before the 2026 election, there is no guarantee that it will happen at all. I think it’s quite something how strongly in favour the president of the Welsh tribunals was for reform in his report – that cannot be ignored.”

Responding to the debate on March 11, Julie James said the First Minister will make a statement on the Welsh Government’s legislative plans shortly after Easter.

Julie James MS, counsel general designate and minister for delivery

Ms James, who is counsel general, the Welsh Government’s chief legal adviser, said: “We’re still fully committed to reforming the devolved tribunals.

“But I’m not in a position to say yet whether the tribunals Bill will make it into that programme. There is much competition for space in year five.”

Ms James told the Senedd the Welsh tribunals budget has increased from £4.1m to £6m.

“That’s a real commitment to making sure our tribunals have the resources they need,” she said. “We’ve reinstated pay parity for tribunal members, with an 8% uplift, bringing their pay in line with those in the reserved system.”

Chris Haines

ICNN Senedd reporter

Welsh steel industry faces uncertainty amid US tariffs

THE WELSH steel industry is facing renewed pressure after the United States imposed a 25% tariff on all UK steel and aluminium imports. The decision, effective from March 12, has sparked widespread concern among industry leaders and politicians, who warn it could deal a severe blow to an already struggling sector.

IMpACT oN WELSH STEEL

Wales is home to key steel plants, including Tata Steel’s Port Talbot facility and operations in Trostre (Llanelli), Celsa (Cardiff), Llanwern (Newport), and Shotton (Deeside). The U.S. market plays a crucial role in the UK steel sector, accounting for around 9% of exports by value and 7% by volume. The newly imposed tariffs threaten to undermine the competitiveness of Welsh steel producers in this vital export market.

Jonathan Reynolds, the UK Business Secretary, described the U.S. decision as “disappointing,” stressing the importance of diplomacy to negotiate a resolution. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that all options remain open but that the priority is constructive engagement to remove the barriers imposed by the U.S.

CALLS FoR RETALIATIoN

Welsh Liberal Democrat MP David Chadwick has called for a tougher stance. He said: “This development only goes to show that Donald Trump and his sidekick Elon Musk ride roughshod over UK interests, while the Conservatives and Nigel Farage gleefully cheer them on.

“Labour must respond to Trump’s move with a show of strength to protect what is left of the Welsh steel industry. We know from his previous actions that this is the only way to stand up to him.

“The Government should now draw up plans for retaliatory tariffs, including a Tesla tariff to hit Musk where it hurts.”

INdUSTRY CoNCERNS

Steel industry representatives have echoed concerns over the potential consequences. Gareth Stace, Director General of UK Steel, described the tariffs as “hugely damaging,” warning that they come at a time when the UK steel sector is already struggling with high energy costs, sluggish domestic demand, and an increasingly protectionist global market.

GLoBAL TRAdE TENSIoNS

The European Union has announced countermeasures on €26 billion worth of U.S. goods in response to the tariffs, set to take effect from April 1. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the tariffs “unjustified” and said the EU’s response would be “swift and proportionate.”

While the UK has so far refrained from immediate retaliation, government officials are under mounting pressure to act. With the steel industry being a vital part of Wales’ economy, many argue that without decisive intervention, the sector could face further decline.

As negotiations continue, Welsh steel producers face an uncertain future, with the need for strong political support and strategic planning to secure the industry’s survival in a challenging global landscape.

Kurtz Champions green energy at Empower Cymru 2025 conference

SAMUEL KURTZ Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South pembrokeshire, delivered the closing address at the Empower Cymru 2025 conference this week.

The event, held at Techniquest in Cardiff, brought together industry professionals from wind and solar energy, oil and gas, education providers, and other key stakeholders to discuss the future of Wales’ energy sector.

Closing the conference, the Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Energy highlighted the prosperity that energy production can bring to communities that have long felt left behind.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for pragmatic policies that encourage investment in renewable energy, including hydrogen production and carbon captur, while being realistic about Wales’ need for oil and gas for the foreseeable future.

Speaking after the event, he said: “It was fantastic to see so many people from across the energy sector come together to discuss Wales’ future. We have talked at length about our country’s incredible potential for renewables, thanks in part to our extensive coastline and access to the Celtic Sea, but now is the time for action.

“If we can demonstrate that Wales is open for business, we can attract investment in infrastructure and education, ensuring secure energy supplies, creating green jobs, and generating prosperity for our local communities.

“For too long, industrial decline has led to fewer job opportunities and economic stagnation in parts of Wales. By embracing energy production, we have the chance to reverse that trend, revitalise our economy, and safeguard our economic and energy security during these turbulent times.”

W ITH ANDREW LYE

is budget season for the Senedd, County, Town and Community Councils, as well as the police Authorities, with the new financial year starting next month.

At the Senedd, the Welsh Labour Government needed one additional vote to get their budget across the line. They had been looking for a deal after the Plaid Cymru cooperation pact came to an end, last summer. The Conservatives had said they would not participate.

The headline news is that after weeks of negotiations, they agreed to £107.8m of Welsh Liberal Democrat priorities that include £15m for a pilot of £1 bus fares for those aged 16 to 21 to travel anywhere in Wales, £30m for childcare, £30 for social care and tackle delayed discharge, £10m for playgrounds and leisure centres, £10m for rural investment and £5 to tackle river pollution. Although not a budget item, a greyhound racing ban would be introduced.

The concessions won by Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader and Regional MS for Mid & West Wales, Jane Dodds,

Plans for harbour takeaway kiosk refused after backlash

was sufficient for her to abstain on the Budget, which passed by 29 votes to 28, on 4th March.

Jane Dodds said she felt a deep sense of responsibility to reach an agreement on the crucial budget. Speaking in the debate, Jane Dodds said “If we don’t pass this budget, we risk losing over £4bn from the UK Treasury, over the course of the next financial year and I cannot in good conscience let that happen. I entered politics to improve people’s lives and strengthen communities. Not to simply vote against the other side.”

But explaining her decision to abstain, Jane Dodds said “I cannot fully support a budget that falls short of delivering the investment and radical change Wales needs. I know how Labour have failed the people of Wales. Just this week, I use my First Minister Question to criticise Labour’s record on child poverty.”

“We knew when entering into this process that we weren’t going to fix decades of government failures in a single budget, but we should be proud of the changes we’ve made to the budget that will positively impact peoples lives.”

Had Jane Dodds joined Plaid Cymru and the Conservatives to vote down the budget, just imagine the damage to Senedd budgets if over £4bn of money didn’t come to Wales from the UK Treasury!

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

pLANS to site a takeaway food kiosk at a former lifeboat store in Tenby’s seaside harbour have been refused despite an officer recommendation for approval.

In an application before Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s March development management committee, Ruby Goodrick sought permission from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners to turn the old RNLI lifeboat store, Penniless Cove, Tenby Harbour, into a takeaway cold food outlet, open 10am-10pm seven days a week.

A supporting statement accompanying the application said she has a five-year lease from Pembrokeshire County Council to use the site; an accompany flood risk assessment saying the beachside site is not at risk of tidal flooding is considered low risk.

The application came before committee members rather than an officer decision as Tenby Town Council has objected, and was recommended for approval despite being a departure from the adopted development plan.

An officer report, recommending approval, said: “Whilst it is acknowledged that the proposed used would introduce a retail element to this area of the harbour, on balance, officers consider that no significant harm would be caused to the character of Tenby Harbour as a result of

this development since the use proposed occupies a relatively small floor area, and would not be a destination in and of itself, rather, it would rely on the existing footfall within the harbour.”

Speaking at the meeting, Alistair Mckay, on behalf of Tenby Sailing Club, said granting the scheme would lead to a potential conflict with other harbour users.

Applicant Ruby Goodrick told members the plan was to turn the empty building with “small and thoughtful touches” and was “more than happy” to adjust the hours of opening of the business, building on the success of her mother’s former sandwich shop in the town called Truly Scrumptious.

Ruby said the proposed takeaway, called Truly@The Harbour would “contribute positively to the local economy”.

However, concerns were raised by committee members, issues including congestion in the area and waste.

Refusal, against officer recommendations, was moved by Cllr Simon Hancock, who said: “It’s a commendable enterprise but I just feel this is the wrong location, it’s almost an alien feature in what is a working harbour,” adding: “With regret I’m going to move we refuse this application.”

He was joined by Tenby councillor Cllr Sam SkyrmeBlackhall, who said she was “all for new businesses in the town, especially for young people,” but worried about a potential precedent being set by approval.

Members voted by 12 in favour to three against refusal.

A related application for a display board to the front of the property advertising the takeaway, also recommended for approval, was deferred for a delegated decision to be made.

The scheme has previously come under fire from Tenby Civic Society and Tenby North county councillor Michael Williams.

Cllr Williams wrote to the park authority saying: “To allow this development would do considerable damage to the historical environment of the harbour estate which is a Grade-II-listed building.”

He pointed out that this is the only area of the harbour where commercial fishing activities can be operated, and it is used by a number of commercial fishing vessels to land catches.

“The very nature of this work would be entirely incompatible with this proposal,” Cllr Williams added.

“My other concern is that a precedent might well be created opening up this priceless historical area to unacceptable and unsuitable commercial exploitation.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

WG set to change key ambulance target

A KEY target for ambulances to respond to the most urgent 999 calls within eight minutes, which has not been met in five years, will be ditched following a review.

Jeremy Miles, Wales’ health secretary, announced a move away from the time-based target of responding to 65% of lifethreatening “red” calls within eight minutes from July 1.

The Welsh Government target was last met in July 2020, with 48% of 6,073 red calls receiving an emergency response in eight minutes in January this year.

Mr Miles said a clinician-led review found the eight-minute target, which has been the standard since the 1970s, is no longer appropriate nor fit for purpose.

In a statement to the Senedd on March 11, he explained the ambulance service will trial changes over the next year which will focus on outcomes rather than response times.

A purple category – for cardiac and respiratory arrest – will be added, with the red category for major trauma, bleeding and cases where a person’s condition could rapidly deteriorate.

Mr Miles said of the current eight-minute target: “There is no evidence it helps drive better outcomes. It does not support effective clinical prioritisation.”

He added: “This means that precious ambulance resources are being dispatched to people who are less seriously ill and may not require emergency treatment or onward hospital care.

“And we measure success purely through the lens of response time in these examples. So, if an ambulance arrives in eight minutes and one second and the person survives – that would be regarded as a

failure because the response time target was missed.

“But, perversely, if the ambulance arrived within eight minutes and the person unfortunately died – that would be regarded as meeting the target.”

Mr Miles said survival rates in Wales after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are less than 5%, compared with 9% in Scotland, 10% in England and far higher elsewhere in the world.

“This is not acceptable…,” he told the Senedd. “We must aspire to do better and to match survival rates in European countries and some US cities.”

The health secretary stated both the purple and red categories will be subject to timebased targets, with an average expected response time of six to eight minutes.

He detailed a focus on early CPR and defibrillation before announcing a group to review ambulance patient handovers, with around 27,000 hours lost due to delays in January.

Mr Miles told Senedd Members: “We must have

a significant improvement in ambulance handover performance to ensure ambulances are available to respond to 999 calls in the community and not stuck outside hospitals for hours on end.”

Before the pandemic the median response time for red calls was four minutes and 30 seconds but at the beginning of this year the average was eight minutes and 17 seconds.

Most calls are “amber”, for which there is no corresponding measure, but a further review will assess whether to introduce targets for the category which includes stroke symptoms.

The Senedd’s health committee called for a review of the red target in a report published in August after taking evidence from the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust.

Russell George, the Tory chair of the committee, welcomed the statement, adding: “But, of course, having targets in place is important – they’re there to ensure accountability.”

Plaid Cymru’s Mabon ap Gwynfor also backed the change in direction, describing the red response time target as “largely ornamental” over the past half a decade.

BLUE VIEW

MARK CARTER

I write this not as a Conservative County Councillor but as the owner of Carters shop in Newgale and I thought I would share my views of the proposed Newgale road scheme.

We have owned our hardware shop in Newgale for nearly 30 years and we feel we have a somewhat unique business in this modern age. It is often described as an “ Aladdin’s Cave” as it is far bigger inside than it looks from the outside. The property has never flooded

Prior to us owning it, it was a convenience store that closed down in 1994, I suspect due to having no winter trade. It has been run by 3 generations of my family. I have lived close to Newgale since 1975 , and whilst there have been many storms over the years, only two in 1987 and 2014 have really caused serious damage and shut the road for an extended period. After the 2014 event that involved a bus being hit by a freak wave, the now retired Pembrokeshire County Council Coastal engineer commissioned a study into the shingle bank with the aid of a firm of consulting engineers. They came to the conclusion that a sea defence that has stood in Newgale for many years has a limited life span , a new diversion road should be built and the businesses on the front be abandoned and nature would take its course. Originally when the new road crossing further up the valley was to be built, the original seafront road was to be kept for up to 30 years to provide a route across the village and service the seafront properties

The latest scheme involves immediately ripping up the original road and replacing it with a diversionary route up the valley from Bay View Farm, Penycwm to Southwood farm between Roch and Newgale with a very large raised piece of road across Brandy Brook taking land from 5 farms against the farmers wishes. To allow residents and visitors to cross from one half of Newgale to the other a boardwalk is proposed to be built. I understand that the cost in investigation work so far is about £3m and the cost of the scheme in total is in excess of £40M . A local resident has

proposed and costed a scheme that will extend the life of the shingle bank for many years for approx £0.5M

So what is my view of this proposal? For my business it is a disaster . We are not affected by any flooding from sea or river, other than the temporary road closures when traffic is diverted via Roch bridge . The diversion itself is awkward but an alternative arrangement has been suggested to make it one way but this has not been acted upon. Without passing traffic , our business is dead and the 5 people that are employed there would have to be laid off or relocated. We also let the 2 flats above the shop. If the shop is not viable, then the fact that the shop subsidises the flats means that 2 homes are lost. The cafe next door, I would be certain, would also lose all passing trade. If the sea defence is abandoned then the surf shop and the camp site would soon be useless and who would ever want to rebuild the fire damaged pub without it having a future? Newgale has a history of 5 thriving business’s and a location that attracts huge crowds for 6 months of the year with the most iconic of views as you approach from Haverfordwest. Nothing is better than sitting outside the pub with a cold drink in your hand .I have yet to meet anyone who wants this scheme to happen or indeed thinks that this is a wise way for Pembrokeshire County Council and the Welsh Government to spend £40m of public money that could be put to far better use . I get that in time, Global warming will necessitate many adaptations to our daily life but in my view this scheme is not needed now or probably for many years. We have a hospital that is crying out for help and £40M spent in Pembrokeshire by the Welsh Government to improve healthcare and dentistry provisions would provide an immediate benefit for all residents Everyone I am sure, residents and visitors alike love Newgale for what it is, please just leave us alone for as long as possible to enjoy it and spend that money where there will be real benefit to the County.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Health secretary Jeremy Miles

SEND YoUR LETTERS To: THE EDIToR, 11 HAMILToN TERRACE, MILFoRD HAVEN, PEMBRoKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTICES

PICTURE OF THE WEEk!

by Phill lees-Griffiths

‘MY CoUNTRY, RIGHT oR WRoNG.’

dEAR SIR,

There are 8 billion people on the planet, divided into 194 nations, each working to mould the mind of every child to become adults believing, ‘My country, Right or Wrong.’, traditional, selfcentred, conservative Nationalist ethics, Brexit and Sovereignty, rejection of cooperation with foreigners.

So the nations divide into opposing groups, where Truth becomes the first casualty, on both sides, first in all forms of Media, Press, TV, Social Platforms, privately owned, a majority of adults and eventually, the developing minds of children, to see foreigners as mad villains, so different from ourselves.

When war breaks out, as an insanely inefficient mechanism by which to resolve these conflicting and contrary opinions, beyond my own, we have opposed each annual ceasefire, perhaps leading to discussion, while declaring that we are peacemakers, in my poisoned mind.

The consequence of all this

is that many children are killed, who have not yet been pressed into my firm opinions, nor the wicked beliefs of the enemy.

Could it be possible that adults who hold very fixed opinions that they themselves are intellectual giants, and know they are never wrong, yet may be prepared to set up group, international discussions of their differences, because of their certain knowledge, that children die, foreign ones and ours, if you think that makes a difference? That is a price too high.

The UK should know. Ever since the Battle of the Boyne or the Curse of Cromwell, 400 years ago, parents have preached hatred to their children, and still it burns.

All of us should learn that every parent and every Government, has a duty to be something superior to what they are, to create a different world, while there is breath in their bodies.

C N Westerman

STANDING FIRM WITH UKRAINE dEAR SIR,

from resisting Nazi Germany to confronting Soviet expansionism. We should not abandon that legacy now. Supporting Ukraine—through military aid, economic sanctions on Russia, and humanitarian assistance—is not just an act of solidarity; it is a necessary stand against a world order where might makes right.

Pembrokeshire has already shown its support in tangible ways, from local fundraising efforts to the extraordinary convoy of aid sent to Ukraine in the early days of the invasion. This spirit of generosity and moral clarity should continue. The people of Ukraine are fighting not just for themselves, but for all of us who believe in freedom and self-determination.

We cannot and must not turn our backs on them.

I am writing to express my unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjustified invasion. The events of the past two years have been a stark reminder that democracy, sovereignty, and human rights are not just abstract concepts— they are values that must be defended at all costs.

Ukraine is not just fighting for its survival; it is fighting for the principles that we in the UK hold dear. The right of a nation to determine its own future, to govern itself without foreign interference, and to exist free from tyranny—these are fundamental rights that Russia seeks to destroy. Allowing Putin’s aggression to succeed would set a dangerous precedent for authoritarian regimes worldwide, emboldening them to redraw borders by force.

Some argue that the war should end at any cost, that Ukraine should “negotiate” and accept whatever terms Russia dictates. But what kind of peace is it when a nation is forced to surrender its land and people under threat of annihilation? A peace dictated by an invading power is not peace—it is subjugation.

The UK has a proud history of standing up to aggression,

John Lee FIRST MINISTER’S STATEMENT oN UKRAINE

dEAR SIR,

I am pleased that our support for Ukraine and its people has been, and will continue to be, unwavering.

I am truly proud that Wales has given full support to Ukraine, from the moment Ukraine was illegally and brutally invaded by Vladimir Putin. Let me be clear, there can be no justification for the invasion of Ukraine, and we must stand full square behind President Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine.

We, in Wales, have offered the hand of friendship to Ukraine and to Ukrainians who have lost their homes because of Russian aggression. We remain committed to helping Ukrainians who have been forced to leave their country.

Our solidarity with Ukraine and its people is unequivocal, and we must continue to stand by our friends in Ukraine in these difficult times.

Eluned Morgan MS First Minister

Death Notices

K ATHLEEN V ERA G RIFFITHS

L ETTERST o N

pEACEFULLY on Wednesday 26th February at Withybush Hospital, Kathleen of Letterston.

Beloved wife of Randall, loving mother of James and Rebecca, much loved Nanny of Milly and Alex and a dear sister.

Funeral service on Monday 17th March at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 10:45am.

Family flowers only.

Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘British Heart Foundation’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

E ILEEN JoAN T H o MAS

P EMBR o KE

T HE death occurred suddenly but peacefully at her home on Saturday 15th February of Mrs Joan Thomas of p oyer’s Avenue, p embroke. The devoted wife of the late Garfield, she will be greatly missed by all her loving family and many friends.

The funeral will take place on Saturday 15th March with a service at Monkton Priory Church at 11.00. am followed by interment at Monkton Cemetery.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Joan for Monkton Priory Church may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel.

01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

H AYDN N ICH o LAS L EWIS

P EMBR o KE

S uddenly on Monday 24th February, at home, aged 98 years, Haydn of North Road, Whitland (former d eputy Headteacher at Whitland Grammar School).

Beloved husband of the late Sheila, dear brother of Valmai and Gordon, a devoted and special uncle to Anna, Datcu to Nicholas and Christopher, and dearly missed by all his nieces and nephews.

Public funeral service at Tabernacle Chapel, Whitland on Monday 17th March at 11:00am, followed by private interment at Nazareth Cemetery.

Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if so desired, may be made to Kidney Research UK via www.pefd.co.uk or c/o Peter Evans Funeral Directors, Rosewood, Plashett, Laugharne, Carmarthen, SA33 4TT. Tel: 01994 427 261.

G ARETH R HYS J AMES

N ANHYFER , Trefdraeth, Sir Benfro / Nevern, Newport, p embs. ( gynt o / formerly of Trecwn Isaf, Cippyn, Llandudoch / St d ogmaels ) Yn dawel, ar ôl cystudd byr, Fore Sul, Chwefror 16eg, 2025 yng Nghartref Gofal Parc y Llyn, Treamlod, hunodd Gareth, yn 83 oed. Gŵr annwyl y Diweddar Janet; Tad gofalus Geraint (Arwerthwr); Brawd yng nghyfraith parchus Lynn a Margaret; ac ewythr hoffus Dylan ac Elgan a’u teuluoedd.

Yr Angladd - Ddydd Sadwrn, Mawrth 22ain. Preifat ar yr Aelwyd am 11.50yb, ac yna’n Gyhoeddus yng Nghapel Blaenwaun, Llandudoch SA43 3JL am 1.00yp. Cleddir yn y fynwent gyfagos. Blodau’r Teulu yn unig.

Passed peacefully, after a short illness, on Sunday Morning, 16th February, 2025 at Parc y Llyn Nursing Home, Ambleston, Gareth, aged 83 years. Loving husband of the Late Janet; caring Father of Geraint (Auctioneer); respected Brother-inlaw of Lynn and Margaret; and fond Uncle of Dylan and Elgan and their families.

The Funeral - Saturday, 22nd March. Private at the House at 11.50am, followed by a Public Service at Blaenwaun Chapel, St Dogmaels SA43 3JL at 1.00pm. Interment in the adjoining cemetery. Family Flowers only.

Derbynnir Rhoddion i’w rhannu rhwng: / Donations in lieu to be shared between: “Eisteddfod Gadeiriol Llandudoch” & “Tir Dewi” â dderbynnir yn garedig gan: / kindly received by: Mr David Lewis, Penrhiw, Heol Pencader, Llandysul. SA44 4RN.

Ymholiadau pellach / Enquiries to: Paul Jenkins a’i Feibion, Abergwaun / Fishguard. 01348 873250

Do RIAN E VANS

The family of d orian Evans are sad to announce that he passed away unexpectedly in Withybush hospital on 15th February.

He leaves behind his loving children, Ed, Antonia and Rosie,

granddaughter Freya, brother Bryan and lifetime friend and co-grand/ parent Samantha.

The funeral will be at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Thursday 13th March at 11a.m.

The funeral procession will depart 146 Robert Street, Milford Haven at 10a.m.

All enquiries to Ken Davies & Sons, Funeral Directors, Clunderwen. Tel; 01437 563319.

IN MEMoRY oF A dEAR dAd BoBBY BEvANS

Who sadly passed away March 22nd 2021 aged 89 Sadly missed and will never be forgotten. By loved ones Simon & Dawn

SERvICES

CLEARANCES

CAMERAS & PHoToGRAPHY

Narberth stay top as Fishguard edge nine-goal thriller

LEAGUE leaders Narberth remain in control of the division 2 title race, holding a two-point advantage over Fishguard Sports, who secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over Johnston.

FISHGUARd WIN NINE-GoAL

BATTLE

Fishguard Sports kept their title hopes alive with a thrilling 5-4 win over Johnston. Goals from Anthony Couzens, Greg Hughes, Ieuan Llewellyn, Luke Thomas, and Matthew Lewis ensured the visitors claimed all

three points. Johnston fought back with a hat-trick from Callum Rees and a strike from Josh Knapp, but it wasn’t enough to deny Fishguard.

LAWRENNY RUN RIoT AGAINST SoLvA

Two of last season’s promoted sides met in a crucial battle for survival, with Lawrenny overpowering Solva 8-3. Joe Kidney led the charge with a hattrick, supported by Owen James (2), Matthew Lewis (2), and Sam Davies. Solva responded through Kieran Price (2) and Josh Bland but struggled to cope with Lawrenny’s attacking firepower.

CAREW RESERvES CLAIM vITAL WIN

Carew Reserves picked up a crucial 3-1 away victory at Broad Haven. Connor Hay opened the scoring before James Hinchliffe struck twice. Marco Valentine netted for the hosts, but the visitors proved too strong.

WEEKENd RoUNd-Up

With Hakin United Reserves and Camrose both out of action, Fishguard closed the gap on Narberth, while Broad Haven remain winless at the foot of the table.

Goodwick maintain unbeaten run, Monkton hit Milford for six

Goodwick edge out St Ishmaels League leaders Goodwick United maintained their unbeaten league record with a narrow 1-0 victory over St Ishmaels. Nathan Greene’s goal proved the difference, securing another three points for the Phoenix Park outfit. The win takes them to 52 points from 18 games, with a +68 goal difference, keeping their title charge firmly on track despite recent cup disappointment.

Hakin United remain their closest challengers, trailing by seven points with a game in hand. However, with Hakin’s focus shifting towards cup competitions, it appears unlikely they will catch Goodwick in the league.

CLARBESToN RoAd EdGE

TENBY IN FIvE-GoAL THRILLER

Clarbeston Road moved up

to third in the table after a hardfought 3-2 win over Tenby. Goals from Jake Booth, Rhys LloydRoberts, and Laurie Haworth were enough to secure victory, despite Scott Ferney’s brace for the visitors.

MoNKToN SWIFTS HIT MILFoRd FoR SIx

Monkton Swifts delivered a dominant performance, thrashing relegation-threatened Milford

United 6-1. Dylan Davies led the charge with a hat-trick, while Connor Davies, Paul Miller, and Jonathan Lee also found the net. The emphatic win lifts Monkton to fourth in the standings.

oTHER FIxTURES

The match between Kilgetty and Merlins Bridge was postponed, leaving both sides in mid-table.

Neyland dominate to retain Sutton Cup with huge victory

NEYLANd 105 – LLANGWM 10

NEYLAND delivered a ruthless performance to retain the Sutton Cup, running in 15 tries to overwhelm a determined Llangwm side.

From the outset, the All Blacks controlled proceedings, opening the scoring in the second minute through experienced second-row Andrew Slark. Full-back Oli Rothero was flawless with the boot, converting every try and notching up a personal tally of 35 points.

Rothero’s outstanding performance saw him surpass 200 points for the season, prompting speculation about whether his 15-from-15 kicking display is a club record. Neyland supporter Peter Davies commented: “Congratulations to Oliver Rothero, whose 35-point haul on Saturday against Llangwm saw him pass the 200 points for the season. Oli successfully kicked 15 out of 15 conversions and has left us wondering if anyone else has surpassed this at Neyland or any other club locally. At Pembrokeshire Sport, do you know anyone who’s beaten this?

“Followers of Neyland RFC, is this a club record of points in a senior match? Please let us know! Congratulations, Oli—let’s keep the points coming .”

doMINANT dISpLAY

Neyland’s attacking prowess was evident throughout, with half-backs Rothero and Owen Hamer orchestrating

play. Hamer crossed twice, while captain George Williams, second-row Adam Peel, winger Henry Macbeth, and hooker Alex Swales all got on the scoresheet. Veteran Mark ‘Russell’ James also added his name to the list of try-scorers.

Despite relentless pressure, Llangwm refused to back down. Coach Dan Chesmer and team manager James Lewis stepped in to help field a full side, while scrum-half Rhys Nicholas, playing on permit from Whitland, worked hard to keep Llangwm battling.

SUTToN CUp STAYS IN NEYLANd

Beyond the emphatic scoreline, Neyland’s victory secured the Sutton Cup, an annual contest between the two rivals. Holding a commanding lead after the first leg at Pill Parks (54-19), the All Blacks comfortably lifted the trophy, presented by former player Phil Sutton on behalf of his family.

Williams, the Neyland skipper, celebrated with the silverware after a dominant performance that keeps his side firmly on course for promotion.

While Neyland march towards the league title, Llangwm remain at the foot of the table. However, their fighting spirit ensured an entertaining contest despite the lopsided scoreline.

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Hakin United secure final spot with second-half surge

HAKIN UNITEd 4 – pENNAR RoBINS 1

HAKIN UNITEd booked their place in the final with a dominant second-half display, scoring three unanswered goals to see off pennar Robins under the lights at the ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium.

Shane Walsh put the Vikings ahead with a precise strike from the edge of the box, but Pennar quickly responded as Ben Adams finished a low cross to level the score before halftime.

Early in the second half, Hakin regained the lead when a teasing Kieran King delivery was inadvertently turned into his own net by Pennar’s Sam Southcott. With time running out, Ben Aldred extended the advantage with a stunning free kick, and in stoppage time, substitute Mason Dalling set up Walsh to grab his second and Hakin’s fourth. The match ended on a sour note for Pennar as Luke Phillips received a straight red card just before the final whistle. Hakin, the competition’s most

successful team with 12 titles, will now face the winner of the upcoming semi-final between current holders Charlestown Road and Milford United.

The final is scheduled for Saturday, April 12, at the Ogi Bridge Meadow, kicking off at 2:30pm.

MATCH SUMMARY

Hakin started brightly, nearly taking an early lead when Aldred’s curling free kick was tipped onto the bar by Pennar goalkeeper Rory Williams. Soon after, Ryan Wilson won possession and unleashed a

fierce strike that Williams saved. Pennar’s first real chance came when Phillips fired off target from a tight angle, failing to trouble Hakin’s keeper, Gareth Fawcett.

The breakthrough arrived in the 33rd minute when Walsh drilled a low right-footed shot from 18 yards into the bottom corner. Pennar responded four minutes before the break, with Phillips delivering a low cross that Adams met with a first-time finish past Fawcett.

Hakin came out strong after the interval and reclaimed the lead in the 49th minute as Southcott inadvertently turned King’s cross into his own net.

Three minutes from time, Aldred put the game beyond reach with a superb free kick from the edge of the area, leaving Williams helpless as the ball crashed into the net. Walsh wrapped up the scoring in stoppage time, converting from close range after good work from Dalling.

A strong second-half performance sees Hakin United move one step closer to another Senior Cup triumph.

From Cymru Premier to Champions League: The rise of Nicky Hayen

AT the time, it seemed an unexpected appointment for semiprofessional Haverfordwest County. Now, just three years later, the man who arrived in west Wales on New Year’s Eve 2021 has taken Club Brugge to the knockout stages of the Champions League.

Nicky Hayen, the first Belgian to manage in the Cymru Premier, is now one of the most sought-after managers in Europe. Having guided his side past Europa League holders Atalanta in the play-offs, his rapid ascent has caught the attention of the footballing world.

Some pundits have even suggested the 44-year-old could be in line for the Liverpool job when Arne Slot departs.

Few of the 273 fans at Bridge Meadow Stadium for Hayen’s biggest home victory – a 6-1 win over Cefn Druids – could have imagined that their manager would soon be preparing for Champions League clashes against Aston Villa.

But for Haverfordwest chairman Rob Edwards, who remains in regular contact with Hayen, his rise comes as no surprise.

WoRK ETHIC ANd EARLY IMpRESSIoNS

“The guy was a workaholic,” Edwards said. “He lived in my house while in Wales, and I’d wake up at 8:00am to find him watching match footage. When I went to bed at 11:00pm, he was still at it.”

A former defender with more than 400 appearances in Belgium and the Netherlands, Hayen arrived in Haverfordwest via coaching roles in Belgium and Saudi Arabia. His time as technical director and interim manager at Waasland-Beveren ended in relegation during the Covid-affected season.

Introduced to Edwards through a mutual contact in Belgium, Hayen impressed the Haverfordwest board with his detailed analysis and tactical vision.

“We just wanted to listen to every word he said,” Edwards recalled. “We knew he was the right person for the job and did everything we could to bring him in.”

TRANSFoRMING HAvERFoRdWEST

Hayen’s influence was immediate. He took Haverfordwest from secondbottom to the brink of European qualification within six months, introducing a structured, possessionbased style rarely seen in the Welsh top flight.

“He didn’t over-coach the players,” Edwards explained. “Instead, he gave them detailed opposition analysis and focused on their welfare. He got the best out of players in a way we didn’t expect.”

Despite the culture shock of moving to a small market town in Pembrokeshire, Hayen embraced his new surroundings.

“There are 14,000 people in Haverfordwest. It’s a beautiful place, but it was all about football for him,” said Edwards. “He is a family man, doesn’t drink, and stays off social media. He just works hard.”

THE MovE To BRUGGE ANd EURopEAN SUCCESS

Edwards always knew Hayen wouldn’t stay forever. When Club Brugge came calling in 2022, offering him the chance to take charge of their Under-23s, the move was inevitable.

By 2023, he was assistant manager to Scott Parker before stepping in as interim boss when Ronny Deila left in March 2024. With Club Brugge

struggling in the league, Hayen led them to nine wins from their last ten matches to clinch the Belgian title.

Former Ajax and Anderlecht striker Jan Mulder predicted in May 2024 that Hayen would soon be on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs.

“Next year, he will play a series of matches in the Champions League, attracting the attention of Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern and Manchester,” Mulder wrote.

His words have proven accurate. Hayen’s Club Brugge defeated Villa, Sporting, and Sturm Graz in the group stage, while also holding Juventus and Celtic. They then dispatched Atalanta in the play-offs with a commanding 5-2 aggregate win.

WHAT NExT FoR HAYEN?

Ahead of their Champions League clash with Aston Villa, Hayen spoke about how he continues to draw inspiration from his late mother, who passed away four years ago.

For Edwards, Hayen’s rise is a testament to his relentess dedication.

“Club Brugge have had better squads on paper, but he gets the best out of his players,” he said. “He is fanatical and leads by example. The younger players are thriving under him.”

Hayen’s short time in Wales also laid the foundation for future success at Haverfordwest. Under Tony Pennock, they qualified for Europe in 2023 for the first time in 19 years.

“It’s fantastic for the club to be linked with someone like him,” Edwards said. “And this is just the beginning. If he keeps going, he will be managing at the highest level soon enough.”

MANDERWOOD PEMbROkESHIRE LEAgUE

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From Cymru Premier to Champions League:

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