The Pembrokeshire Herald 16/05/2025

HOPE FOR JOHN COOPER clears man jailed in 1987 • P18

Sad farewell to Folly Farm’s majestic Lion, Hugo

FOlly Farm has announced the heartbreaking loss of one of its most iconic residents, Hugo the African lion, who passed away this week at the age of 17.

Hugo arrived at the award-winning Pembrokeshire attraction in 2014, alongside his mate Luna and their four cubs – Sola, Zahra, Alika, and Ebele. Described as a “firm favourite” among both staff and visitors, Hugo quickly became a beloved figure at the zoo, known for his powerful presence and regal demeanour.

Folly Farm confirmed that Hugo had recently experienced a short period of illness. A comprehensive health assessment, carried out by the in-house veterinary team in collaboration with specialist zoo vets, revealed he was suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), a common but irreversible condition in ageing big cats.

His most recent health episode was identified as a uraemic crisis – a dangerous build-up of toxins due to kidney failure. Given his diagnosis and advanced age, the team made the difficult but compassionate decision to prevent further suffering by saying a peaceful goodbye.

“It’s never easy to say goodbye to one of our animals, particularly one as special as Hugo,” a spokesperson for Folly Farm said. “He has been a majestic presence here for over a decade and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

Tributes have begun pouring in on social media from visitors and long-time supporters of the zoo, many sharing

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Pembrokeshire man sentenced for stalking ex-partner

Restraining order: Thomas Jones

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has been handed a two-year restraining order after repeatedly stalking his ex-partner despite a court order that prevented him from having any contact with her.

Thomas Jones, 34, was brought before Haverfordwest magistrates in custody this week after breaching the order yet again, between April 11 and April 30.

“His behaviour appears to be persistent,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told the Bench.

“Once again the victim was contacted by the defendant despite being prohibited from being in that area.”

Jones, of Croft Road, Broad Haven, pleaded guilty to breaching the bail condition, plus additional charges of stalking the victim and causing criminal damage to her property in Milford Haven.

The court was told that between December 5 and January 22, Thomas

attended the woman’s address on several occasions and sent over 100 messages to her via texts, Facebook posts and envelopes which he left outside her front door.

On July 21, 2024, he visited her property in Milford Haven and caused damage to a door, a radiator, a cat litter tray and a cat scratch pole.

Thomas was sentenced to a 24-month community order during which he must carry out a 128 day alcohol abstinence monitoring programme and 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

He was ordered to pay £300 compensation to the victim for the damage caused to her property, £350 costs and a £114 surcharge.

A two-year restraining order was imposed, which prevents him from contacting the victim directly and indirectly and from making any references to her on social media.

fond memories and photos of the lion whose roar once echoed across the

Pembrokeshire countryside. Folly Farm has asked the public to extend their sympathies to the dedicated keeping team who cared for Hugo and are now mourning his loss.

Visitors are invited to share their memories of Hugo as the zoo remembers the life of one of its most cherished residents.

Welsh Water fined £1.35m for sewage permit breaches

DŴR CYMRU Welsh Water has been fined £1.35 million and ordered to pay more than £70,000 in costs after pleading guilty to more than 800 breaches of its environmental permits to discharge sewage.

The breaches, spanning hundreds of sites across Wales and Herefordshire, were identified through the company’s own self-monitoring data submitted to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) for the years 2020 and 2021.

Due to the sheer volume of noncompliances, the breaches were consolidated into 18 charges for the purpose of court proceedings. The company admitted guilt to 15 of these offences at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court on October 16, 2024, and accepted the remaining offences as Taken Into Consideration (TICs) in December.

Since 2010, water companies have been required to carry out self-monitoring of effluent discharges from sewage and water treatment works. NRW said it became concerned when the 2020 report from Welsh Water showed a sharp decline in the quality of monitoring data, revealing over 600 breaches at around 300 sites.

In court, Welsh Water blamed internal restructuring, IT scheduling failures, and the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic for the deterioration in compliance. Although the situation improved in 2021, further noncompliances were recorded.

NRW said contingency plans should have been in place to prevent such a large-scale failure, regardless of internal changes or external pressures. The

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regulator was unable to fully assess potential environmental harm due to missing data in 2020, but warned that the cumulative impact of hundreds of breaches could be significant.

Siân Williams, Head of Operations at NRW, said: “This case highlights serious inadequacies in Dŵr Cymru’s systems, which led to widespread breaches of environmental permits. While we understand the challenges presented by the pandemic, the company’s failings were avoidable had proper contingency planning been in place.”

She added that Welsh Water’s environmental performance has steadily declined in recent years. The company was downgraded from a four-star ‘industry leading’ rating in 2020 to twostar ‘requires improvement’ status in both 2022 and 2023.

In 2023, the utility recorded its worstever performance, with a rise in major pollution incidents and a fall in the number of incidents it self-reported.

The breaches prosecuted in this case are separate from those included in NRW’s annual Environmental Performance Assessment (EPA) but are part of wider concerns over Welsh Water’s compliance.

Ms Williams said: “The court’s decision follows a complex investigation, and I’d like to thank our regulatory teams for their diligence. We are increasing our compliance monitoring efforts across Wales and will not hesitate to take enforcement action when necessary.”

NRW says it has stepped up audits of Welsh Water’s self-monitoring activities as part of a wider crackdown on poor water quality across Wales.

A Welsh Water spokesperson said: “Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water has a strong record of compliance with our monitoring obligations prior to and after the period relevant to this matter.

“A combination of factors impacted our work during 2020-21 that included the COVID 19 pandemic. Despite this we met our monitoring requirements, which involve more than 18,000 tests per year, 98.95% of the time in 2020 and 99.45% in 2021.

“No sites were left unmonitored during this time, but the unique circumstances during 2020/21 caused significant challenges and disruption to our operations.

“There has been no identified environmental harm associated with this case and the monitoring failures represent a very small number of examples in a programme involving tens of thousands of submissions each year. Nonetheless, we recognise that our compliance fell short during 2020/21 and we entered a guilty plea at the earliest opportunity.

“Welsh Water will continue to work closely with our regulators to ensure that we deliver on our two main priorities, the best possible service to our customers and protecting the environment.”

A protest is scheduled to take place at Broad Haven on Saturday (Pic: Herald)

Tom

Livestock owner narrowly avoids jail sentence

A Crown Court judge has been shown horrific video footage of the suffering caused to animals at the hands of Pembrokeshire father and daughter, Richard and Brogan Scarfe.

The video showed a pig squealing in pain after being found with its head stuck in a holding pen while a young lamb was so weak, it could barely stand. Many animals, including pigs and sheep, were severely malnourished while a pig could be seen with two severely injured ears, possibly, the court was told, as a result of cannibalistic behaviour.

“The care you showed to those animals was highly inappropriate,” commented Judge Katherine Richards as she sentenced Richard Scarfe at Swansea Crown Court on Monday (May 12).

“You refused to accept the advice and opinion of experts, and you continued to think that your knowledge was better. But this caused prolonged periods of neglect and high levels of suffering to the animals in your care.”

Last month Richard Scarfe, 44, of Park Street, Pembroke Dock and his daughter Brogan, 26, of Woodbine Terrace, Pembroke admitted causing unnecessary suffering to pigs, sheep, poultry and dogs, between January 25, 2022 and April 18, 2023.

Richard Scarfe was further charged with breaching a Court Order, which banned him from owning, keeping or participating in the keeping of goats, donkeys, cattle, sheep and pigs, or being party to any arrangement under which he was entitled to control or have influence over their care, for a period of five years.

Animal welfare officers from both Pembrokeshire County Council and the RSPCA carried out a number of visit to monitor the animals’ welfare. And on each visit, they discovered the animals’ condition was deteriorating. They also discovered that Scarfe had remained actively involved in the day-to-day husbandry of his livestock despite a five-year disqualification imposed following a previous conviction for causing unnecessary suffering to animals in 2022.

During their visits, the officers discovered:

Dead pigs left in close proximity to enclosures containing live pigs;

Animals suffering from substantial levels of pain and suffering. One pig had extensive damage to both its ears, believed to be the result of cannibalistic behaviour caused by the pigs competing for the limited food and space.

Animal malnourishment, with inadequate food and drinking water supplies;

Severely emaciated sheep, showing their ribs and spine; Hazardous holding enclosures, often knee deep in mud.

When interviewed by the officers, the

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court was told that Scarfe claimed the animals were in a good state of health, claiming their underweight appearance was because they were young and still growing.

“Just like there are fat people and thin people, there are fat pigs and thin pigs,” he said.

A number of dogs were also found locked inside a makeshift kennel that was littered in faeces. Several were underweight and nervous, and despite making numerous visits, the officers never saw the dog released from their kennels.

As a result of the officers’concerns, veterinary advice was sought from the Animal and Plant Health Agency on the cattle, pigs, sheep and poultry found at Scarfe’s property. Body condition scores were carried out,which showed they were all in a substandard condition and suffering unnecessarily as a result of serious failures in their care. A certificate under Section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 was subsequently issued demanding their removal to a place of safety and to prevent further suffering. A total of one cow, 26 sheep, 43 pigs, 23 poultry and five dogs were subsequently seized and removed to a place of sanctuary where they were examined by a veterinary surgeon, with many needing medical intervention.

Richard Scarfe was sentenced to 11 months in custody, suspended for 12 months.

“The fact that you so brazenly breached the disqualification means custody is the only way of punishing you,” commented Judge Richards. Judge Richards suspended custody for 12 months as a result of Scarfe being the full-time carer of his partner as well as being jointly responsible for the home education of their young son. He was disqualified from keeping animals

for life

Sentencing Brogan Scarfe, Judge Katherine Richards said the defendant had ‘acted as a means of misplaced loyalty’ to her father.

She must serve a 12-month community order and carry out 100 hours of unpaid work. She was disqualified from keeping animals for five years.

A dead pig, found at the pigs enclosure

Stalker built secret den to spy on ex-partner

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has admitted building a secret observation den behind his former partner’s home in a disturbing attempt to monitor her movements following the breakdown of their relationship.

Dewi Williams, 32, of Neyland Road, Steynton, selected a secluded spot at the rear of the woman’s property in Pembroke Dock and used it over a three-month period to track her day-today activities.

Haverfordwest magistrates heard this week that Williams also regularly drove around the area in a further attempt to observe the woman, who has since been forced to move house.

“He had a look-out at the rear of her property and when the woman was told about this, she felt unable to return to her home,” Crown Prosecutor Ann Griffiths told the court.

“She had to make significant changes to her life and went to live in another location.

“This very persistent activity has had a significant and onerous effect on her lifestyle and has caused her considerable stress.”

Williams pleaded guilty to stalking the woman between May 15 and August 28, 2024. He was legally represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“This wasn’t done to deliberately cause her distress, but he struggled to cope when the relationship ended,” said Mr Lloyd.

“And he struggled in a way that can only be described as complete madness.

“This is a man with a previously clean character who has responded to an acrimonious break-up in entirely the wrong way. When arrested, the first thing he said was that he was sorry for what he had done.”

The court was told that since the incident, Williams has been engaging with counselling services.

Magistrates rejected a request by the Crown to send the case to Crown Court,

choosing instead to retain jurisdiction.

Sentencing was adjourned to June 3 for a pre-sentence report to be prepared by the probation service.

Williams was released on conditional

bail, with strict conditions not to contact the victim either directly or indirectly, and not to enter Pembroke Dock except to travel to and from his place of work at the Valero Oil Refinery.

Health and safety consultant sentenced for pub assault

A HEAlTH and safety consultant has been sentenced after assaulting two police officers and subjecting pub staff to a torrent of abuse during a night out in Haverfordwest.

Daniel Watson, 36, had been drinking at The Lost Coins on the evening of April 24 when he launched into a verbal tirade against two members of staff.

“The defendant had been drinking and became angry with the staff,” Crown Prosecutor Ann Griffiths told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“He continued shouting and swearing at them, and kept repeatedly hitting the table.”

Despite his behaviour, Watson proceeded to order a meal, but once it arrived, he again became verbally abusive.

“His behaviour made the staff feel unsafe in their job,” said Ms Griffiths. “Members of the public who were at the pub became stressed by his language and behaviour.”

Police were called to the scene and upon their arrival, Watson turned his aggression towards the officers. He pushed one officer in the chest and pulled another by her hands, causing

her to fall to the ground. The incident was captured on body-worn video footage shown to the court. Neither officer was injured.

Watson, of Rowan Drive,

Heybridge, pleaded guilty to two charges of using threatening, abusive and insulting words and behaviour towards pub staff, two charges of assaulting emergency workers, and one charge of resisting a police officer.

The court heard that Watson had arrived in Pembrokeshire earlier that day for work as a self-employed Health and Safety consultant.

Probation officer Julie Norman told the court: “He had checked into a local hotel and then went to The Lost Coins where he drank around ten pints of lager. He accepts that he has issues with binge drinking, because sometimes when he goes out, he doesn’t know when to stop.”

Watson was sentenced to an 18-month community order. He must complete ten rehabilitation activity requirement days and a 90day alcohol abstinence monitoring programme. He was also ordered to pay £50 compensation to each police officer, £85 in prosecution costs and a £114 court surcharge.

Skilled labour crisis hits fishing fleet

PEMBROKESHIRE’S fishing industry is facing a critical shortage of skilled labour, with local skippers among the most concerned in the UK over their ability to crew boats, a national report has revealed.

The 2024 Employment in the UK Fishing Fleet report, published today (May 15) by Seafish, shows that not a single Welsh skipper rated access to skilled crew as ‘good’ or ‘very good’. In contrast, nearly all described it as ‘bad’ or ‘very bad’.

This bleak outlook is far worse than in other parts of the UK. In England, 11% of vessel owners reported a positive view on crew access, while in Scotland the figure was 7%. Only Northern Ireland fared worse overall — but even there, some skippers expressed satisfaction with crew availability.

Researchers interviewed 32 Welsh vessel owners, including those operating out of Milford Haven, Fishguard, Saundersfoot and Tenby.

Many of these vessels — including scallop dredgers and demersal trawlers over 10 metres — require larger crews, making the labour shortage even more acute.

Locally, the consequences are already being felt.

“I’ve had to cancel trips because I couldn’t crew the boat. That’s lost income — and it’s happening more often,” one Milford Haven skipper told The Herald.

According to the report, access to skilled crew is now the dominant employment issue across the UK fleet. The causes are varied:

• An ageing workforce, with the average age of UK fishing workers now 44.

• Tightened visa rules, making it more difficult and expensive to employ

experienced foreign crew.

• Competition from offshore wind and aquaculture, which offer steadier hours and better conditions.

Despite the difficulties, a few Welsh vessel owners praised their current crew for loyalty and hard work — in contrast to other areas, where morale and experience were seen to be declining. The report also highlights Wales’ heavy reliance on seasonal labour. A staggering 28% of full-time fishing workers in Wales are classed as seasonal — the highest figure anywhere in the UK. In Pembrokeshire, many fishermen are now taking second jobs with the RNLI, ferry companies, in engine repair, or selling seafood directly. Visa-linked salary rules were also criticised. Under the Skilled Worker Visa scheme, crew must now earn over £30,000 per year — a figure some small boat operators say is unaffordable. Others have lost long-serving foreign

crew due to English language requirements.

“They were like family,” one skipper said. “But they couldn’t pass the test, so I had to send them home. The new lads are fine, but they don’t have the same experience.”

Seafish is calling on government and industry to expand training and recruitment efforts, including Fisher Apprenticeships, Maritime Studies courses and Sea Fishing Diplomas, in an attempt to attract more young people into the trade.

But concerns remain. No women were recorded as working aboard Welsh vessels in the latest survey, and nearly one-third of deckhands were foreign nationals on temporary visas.

With a shrinking pool of experienced crew and a growing reliance on seasonal and overseas labour, the future of Pembrokeshire’s fishing heritage is at a crossroads.

Window fitter denies raping woman in her own kitchen

A MOTHER has told a court how she was raped in her own kitchen after her children were ordered upstairs by the defendant.

“I kept pushing him away, saying I didn’t want to,” the woman told Judge Paul Thomas KC, sitting at Swansea Crown Court on Monday, May 12.

“I didn’t want to make a fuss because of my children.

“I was still saying ‘No’, but then he pushed me down on the floor.”

Richard Murray, 46, of Hill Street, Haverfordwest, denies orally raping the woman at her home in Narberth on August 25, 2022. He also denies sexually assaulting her and causing her to engage in a sexual activity without her consent.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, told the court that she’d met Murray earlier that afternoon at the Costcutter store, Narberth, after walking there with her young children,

to buy a pair of scissors. She explained that she wanted to cut posters out of her children’s comics, but was unable to find scissors at her property.

“I saw Ritchie [Richard Murray] and he asked me what we were doing there,” said the woman in a police video interview that was played to the court.

“He told me not to worry, but he’d come over and sort it out.”

She said that she’d known Murray, who at the time of the offence was employed as a window fitter, for several months leading up to the alleged incident.

When Murray and the victim returned to her home, the victim claims that Murray took out a Stanley knife and began cutting out the posters for her children.

“But then he became a bit more suggestive,” she said.

“He asked me if I wanted to have an affair and I said no. I just wanted him

to stop. He’s asked me this before. I’ve always said no, and it’s always stopped at this point.

“But then he began pulling me closer to him and he shouted at the children to go upstairs to hide, and then it happened. He shut the kitchen door and started putting my hands on him, in that area in front of his trousers.

“I was pushing him away but then he got [his penis] out and pushed me down on the floor and put it in my mouth. I kept pushing him away, saying nothing, and then I pushed hard and fell back against the tumble drier.

“I was terrified the children were going to know, as I didn’t want them to witness or have to deal with any of this.”

The victim said that following the alleged incident, Murray left her property.

She went on to accuse Murray of touching her breast at a previous incident at her home earlier that

But Prosecution counsel, Mr Dyfed Thomas, KC, claimed the victim had encouraged Murray’s advances in the weeks leading up to the alleged incident, despite knowing that he was married.

“You never told him he wasn’t welcome at your house, did you?” he said. “You didn’t have to let him in. You could have blocked him on your phone and you could have said ‘You’re not welcome any more. Come around here again, and I’m contacting the police.

“Or you could have said that you were going to phone his wife and tell her that he was around at your home all the time. But you didn’t do any of this, did you?”

The victim replied that her intention was ‘to avoid the situation’.

Richard Murray is expected to begin giving his evidence tomorrow (Tuesday).

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Fisherman Mark aboard Griffin Girl (Image: File)

Miller doubles down in Welsh language row

THE DEPUTY LEADER of Pembrokeshire County Council has defended the Cabinet from claims it is “anti-Welsh”.Cllr Paul Miller’s remark came after the content of a Cabinet discussion on WelshMedium Education in Pembrokeshire was criticised by the leader of the opposition, Cllr Huw Murphy, and the Welsh Language Commissioner.

During the Cabinet debate on April 28, Cllr Miller opined that Welshmedium schools were popular because they were new and had good facilities. He added fuel to the flames generated by his words by stating that most parents don’t care what language their children are taught in, as long as the quality of the education is good.

Cllr Miller’s words no doubt express his personal view and the view of those to whom he speaks.

However, their effect was to undo much of the good work the Council had done in meeting its obligations under the Welsh Government’s Code for Welsh in Education. Moreover, a Cabinet decision to ask officers to

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survey parents about the reasons for their choice of their children’s education was so poorly debated that it gave the impression that only parents electing to choose Welsh-medium education would be canvassed.

While the final wording of the Cabinet resolution on canvassing parents’ views is sufficiently neutral, the manner in which the Cabinet conducted its debate raised concerns among those more deeply rooted in the Welsh language than any Cabinet member.

Cllr Miller’s words and those of other contributors to the April 28 debate were dismissive and inflammatory.

They prompted Cllr Huw Murphy to refer the debate to the Welsh Language Commissioner and request a call-in to the local authority’s powerful Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

The Welsh Language Commissioner’s response was blunt and excoriated the Cabinet debate.

Efa Gruffydd Jones wrote: “In 2019,

the Welsh Government introduced significant changes to the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013 and also to the Welsh in Education Strategic Plans (Wales) Regulations 2019.

One of the main changes was to move away from the concept of measuring demand, and, rather, to place a duty on local authorities to encourage the demand for Welsh-medium education. That is, local authorities are expected to expand Welsh-medium provision proactively, thereby encouraging more parents to choose Welsh-medium education for their children.”

She added: “It is not clear to me why there is a need to question the choices of parents regarding Welsh-medium education in particular.

“It is also difficult to see how a process of questioning parents’ motivation for choosing Welsh-medium education would be compatible with the commitments that have been made in Pembrokeshire County Council’s WESP.”

Cllr Miller’s attempt to defuse

the row at the Education Committee meeting on Wednesday, May 14, was undone by his failure to reassure Committee members that the decision reached on April 28 was a neutral act by an authority merely seeking to capture potentially valuable data that might inform its future decisions. Cllr Miller constantly asked members to consider the issue in the context of the words of the resolution that the Cabinet passed. However, he failed to appreciate that the resolution’s context was framed by his and his fellow Cabinet members’ attitudes on April 28.

Instead, unwilling to apologise for fostering the wrong impression, Cllr Miller doubled down on his assertions about parents’ motivations for sending their children to the new Welsh-medium schools, stating that the parents he spoke to “couldn’t give a toss” about the medium of their children’s education. He also attacked Cllr Huw Murphy for calling in the decision and the Welsh Language Commissioner for her criticisms.

During the debate, it became apparent that the Cabinet was unaware of the additional cost of capturing the data it sought, how such a request might be framed, or how the received data would be handled. The Director of Education, Stephen Richards-Downes, could not help committee members who asked about the additional costs of the Cabinet’s proposal.

Cllr Miller might have paused to reflect that, accepting his rationale that free transport and good facilities in Welsh-medium schools enticed parents to send their children to Welsh-medium schools, the Council had work to do improving its English-medium provision.

At the conclusion of the debate, Cllr Huw Murphy pointed out the Cabinet had no Welsh speaker in its membership and that the absence of someone with a perspective on the importance of Welsh to Pembrokeshire’s communities would have avoided the loaded way in which the Cabinet conducted its debate.

The Committee voted to send the Cabinet decision back for reconsideration.

Warrant issued for Haverfordwest man who allegedly sent menacing messages

A WARRANT has been issued for a Haverfordwest man who failed to appear at court to be sentenced for sending a series of grossly offensive and menacing messages.

Butler had been due to attend Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (May 13) but failed to turn up. Magistrates issued a warrant for his arrest without bail.

The court heard the messages were “grossly offensive” and sent deliberately to cause harm. Prosecutor Ann Griffiths presented the case, with Mr Andrew Smith listed as defence.

Steven Butler, 39, of Douglas James Way, had previously pleaded guilty to an offence under the Communications Act 2003 after sending a number of messages via a public electronic communications network that were described as obscene, indecent, and threatening. The offences took place between October 23 and October 29, 2024, and were intended to cause distress or anxiety to the recipient or others who might see or be affected by the content.

Paul Miller

Man reunited with dog after two-year police kennel ordeal

A PEMBROKESHIRE man is to be reunited with his American bulldog nearly two years after it was seized by police following a biting incident at his home.

The dog, named Diesel, was taken into custody in May 2023 after biting a woman who had entered the property in Colley Court, Monkton, Pembroke. However, CCTV footage later revealed the woman had been “jumping around,” which the dog perceived as threatening.

At Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, Diesel’s owner, 44-year-old Anthony Wakeham, pleaded guilty to being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control, causing injury.

In a further blow, Wakeham was told he could be liable for more than £12,000 in police kennel fees—

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totalling £12,196—for Diesel’s detention since the incident. But magistrates rejected the police application for the fees after hearing mitigation from Wakeham’s solicitor, Michael Kelleher.

“Had this case been dealt with promptly, Mr Wakeham could have been told exactly what was required to keep the dog secure,” said Mr Kelleher. “Instead, it’s taken nearly two years to come to court. If you award these extremely high kennel costs, it will penalise him unjustly.”

The court heard the victim, Ashley Large, had been walking home from the local Spar store on May 24, 2023, when she encountered Wakeham outside his home.

Man jailed after repeated breakin to steal beer from Tenby home

A MAN from Cardigan has been jailed after repeatedly entering a house in Tenby early in the morning to steal bottles of beer, while the female occupant slept upstairs.

Mark Brook, 31, of Brynheulwen in Blaenannerch, was sentenced to 16 months in prison at Swansea Crown Court after admitting burglary as a trespasser with intent to steal.

The court heard that Brook, a serial offender with 17 previous convictions for 27 offences, was caught on CCTV entering the house on Lower Frog Street on three separate occasions between 6:00am and 7:30am on April 21, 2023.

After the victim’s husband left for work shortly after 6:00am, Brook was seen walking past the property. Minutes later, he returned and was filmed trying a neighbour’s door before entering the house and emerging with a beer. He came back again shortly before

7:00am, this time trying to open the bottle with his teeth. He entered the house a third time not long afterwards.

The victim, who remained in bed unaware of the break-in, later told police she felt “terrified” and “vulnerable” when she realised someone had been in the property while she slept.

Brook was arrested in Cardigan in July and had earlier pleaded guilty at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

His solicitor said a psychiatric report linked his offending to substance misuse and alcohol dependency.

Judge Paul Thomas KC told Brook that the real harm was not the value of what was stolen, but the distress caused to the homeowner.

He added: “The sentence I’m about to pass will hopefully give you an opportunity to get clean from those substances.”

Brook was sent to prison immediately.

someone else and felt threatened by her behaviour. It acted to protect what it perceived as its territory.”

The attack left Ms Large with serious leg injuries. “The dog could be seen shaking its head side to side, with its teeth still in her leg,” added Ms Griffiths. She was taken to Withybush Hospital, where she was treated for tissue damage, tendon injuries, and restricted movement.

However, the defence argued that Ms Large had not been formally invited and had been warned the dog disliked her. “Despite this, she came inside and began jumping around,” said Mr Kelleher. “It’s unclear if she was dancing or not, but the dog was mistakenly let into the room by

Mr Wakeham, the court was told, had not seen his dog since the incident.

“He’s extremely anxious to be reunited with Diesel,” said Mr Kelleher. “The dog was bought for companionship after the deaths of his mother and brother—it has great sentimental value.”

Magistrates imposed a fine of £120, with £200 compensation payable to Ms Large, court costs of £85, and a £48 victim surcharge. They also imposed a contingent destruction order, meaning Diesel can return home but must be kept securely on a lead and wear a muzzle in public.

Man due in court over alleged New Year’s Day GBH at Narberth pub

A MAN is due back before the courts later this month accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent during an incident at a Narberth pub.

Thomas Cuffe, aged 32, of the Cartref Hotel, High Street, Fishguard, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (May 13) for a first hearing relating to the alleged assault.

The case concerns a serious incident said to have taken place on New Year’s Day 2023 at The Eagle pub in Narberth. It is alleged that Cuffe unlawfully and maliciously caused grievous bodily harm to Wil Vallence, with intent to do him serious injury. The charge is brought under Section 18 of the Offences Against the Person

Act 1861 – one of the most serious assault offences in UK law.

During the brief hearing, no plea was entered. The court was told that Cuffe’s current address is temporary, and the Crown Prosecution Service will seek an updated address from police. As a result, the case was adjourned.

Cuffe, who is represented by defence solicitor Mike Kelleher, is now scheduled to return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, May 27 at 10:00am. The prosecution is being led by Ann Griffiths.

The next hearing is expected to include a plea, and depending on the outcome, the case may be sent to the Crown Court due to its seriousness.

“She was invited inside for a small party,” said Crown Prosecutor Ann Griffiths. “She sat on the sofa, but the dog bolted through the patio door and hurled himself at her.”

Paddleboarders rescued off Pembrokeshire coast

TWO young paddleboarders were rescued off the Pembrokeshire coast on Saturday (May 3) after being blown out to sea in strong winds.

Volunteer RNLI crew from Little and Broad Haven launched at 5:50pm following a distress call made from a mobile phone by the casualties, who had set off from Newgale. Initial reports placed them near Nolton Haven, but further updates from Milford Haven Coastguard – tracking the phone signal – confirmed they had drifted further south towards Druidston.

The RNLI lifeboat quickly located the pair, who were sharing a single paddleboard, wearing black clothing and no flotation devices. They were brought aboard, issued with lifejackets and a survival blanket, and the deflated board was recovered before all were returned safely to Newgale, where they were met by the Coastguard team from Broad Haven. Lifeboat Helm Ben Rudder said: “We headed to Newgale first, but couldn’t locate them. The Coastguard

updated their position, and even with the coordinates, it was hard to spot them due to their dark clothing and the fact they couldn’t stand up on the board. We were surprised how far out to sea they had drifted, and it was clear they were unprepared. I have no doubt the mobile phone saved their lives.”

Lifeboat Operations Manager Ian Thomas added: “They were very lucky. Their clothing gave little protection, and they had no flotation gear. The 999 call was vital – without it, the search would have taken far longer and they could easily have

ended up in the water and separated in worsening conditions.”

The rescue was supported by the Coastguard team from Broad Haven, who provided crucial communications assistance on a busy bank holiday weekend.

The lifeboat returned to station at 7:33pm, where it was refuelled and made ready for service with help from the shore crew.

The RNLI continues to urge those heading to sea to wear appropriate gear, always carry a means of communication, and check weather conditions before setting off.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Broad Haven Coastguard team were on hand to assist with recovering the casualties and paddleboard (Image: Denys Bassett-Jones/RNLI)

The paddleboard is recovered and deflated to be returned to shore (Image: Denys Bassett-Jones/RNLI)

Little and Broad Haven Lifeboat Crew locate paddleboarders in difficulty near Newgale (Image: Denys Bassett-Jones/RNLI)

Call for CCTV cameras to tackle Pembrokeshire fly tipping

A CALL for surveillance cameras to target fly tipping, as successfully done in Ceredigion using special UK government funding, can’t be replicated in Pembrokeshire this year as the funds have already run out, councillors heard.

In a question submitted to the May meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Viv Stoddart raised the issue of fly-tipping in her ward of Milford Hubberston.

Cllr Stoddart asked: “Ceredigion County Council recently sourced funding to place cameras at fly-tipping hot spots across the county. A surveillance camera was placed in a covert location overlooking a layby which had been identified as a flytipping and littering hotspot for several years.

“The camera caught an individual who arrived at the site in a car and threw a white plastic bag into vegetation bordering a river, before driving off again. This resulted in the successful issuing of a fixed penalty notice to the person responsible for the fly tipping.

“I frequently have to notify PCC of rubbish dumping at the two fly-tipping hotspots in Hubberston Ward; Silverstream

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Bridge and Lower Priory Woods. The replies from PCC to my previous requests for surveillance cameras at one or both locations was that it was not an easy matter and not recommended by the council’s environmental contractors WISE.

“Neighbouring Ceredigion funded their cameras from the Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Hot Spot Responses Fund, a UK Government initiative.

“Will PCC apply to this fund for a grant to install cameras in Hubberston Ward, and in similar fly-tipping hot spots across the county?”

Responding, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said the Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Hot Spot Responses Fund for 2025-26 had already been allocated, adding the council had previously look at potential surveillance options and would revisit the potential use of such systems in the county.

Members heard the council was targeting fly-tipping investigations, with 130 fixed penalties issued county-wide in 2024-25.

Fined for smashing hotel window and car

A 21-yEAR-OlD man has admitted causing nearly £1,100 in criminal damage during a night of disorder in Haverfordwest.

Ellis Rudkin, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week to damaging a sash window at the Mariners Hotel and smashing the rear window of a Volkswagen Golf.

The incident began on the evening of April 11, when Rudkin was refused service at the Greyhound Inn. Prosecutor Ann Griffiths told the court:

“The defendant sat at a table, threatened another individual, and then walked out of the Greyhound to the Mariners Hotel, where he punched a window.”

The cost of repairing the hardwood sash window was quoted by the hotel owner at £998.40.

Later that same night, Rudkin was seen smashing the rear window of a grey VW Golf parked outside its owner’s home on Barn Street.

Defence solicitor Michael Kelleher said his client had no memory of the incident. “But as well as having no

in Haverfordwest

memory, he had no marks on him. Normally, when someone punches a window or a windscreen, there are bruises and sometimes cuts.”

Mr Kelleher added that Rudkin had no previous convictions and described the incident as “totally out of character”.

“He has since moderated his drinking to ensure nothing like this happens again,” he said.

Magistrates ordered Rudkin to pay £998.40 compensation to the Mariners Hotel and £100 to the owner of the VW Golf. He was also fined £166 and

ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £66 victim surcharge.

Court action after log cabin and shepherd’s hut built without permission

A FORMER couple who built a shepherd’s hut and log cabin without planning permission have been ordered by a court to pay more than £4,000 between them.

Daniel and Megan Davies both pleaded guilty to non-compliance of an enforcement notice after the unlawful development was discovered on land at Seven Acres, Whitland, in

August 2023.

Daniel Davies of Seven Acres, and Megan Davies of The

Shed,

appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates Court on

Thursday May.

Pembrokeshire County Council issued an enforcement notice requiring removal of the cabin and hut on June 21st 2024 but no action was taken in respect of the requirements of the enforcement notice by the defendants.

Barrister Christian Hawley, defending, said his clients recognised they should have complied with the enforcement notice and expressed their remorse.

Mr Hawley told the court that the shepherd’s hut has been removed, The court fined Daniel Davies £1000 for non-compliance with the enforcement notice.

He must also pay victim surcharge of £400 plus costs in full of £1658.50 for a total owed to the court of £3058.50.

Megan Davies was fined £750 and must pay a victim surcharge of £300.

Potting

Whitland

Withyhedge landfill operator seeks to increase waste limit

THE COMPANY behind Pembrokeshire’s controversial Withyhedge landfill site has sparked outrage by applying to increase the volume of waste it is allowed to receive by an extra 50,000 tonnes per year.

Resources Management (UK) Limited (RML), the operator of the privately-run site near Dreenhill, has submitted an application to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) seeking a formal variation to its existing environmental permit.

Currently, the site is authorised to accept up to 250,000 tonnes of non-hazardous waste annually. The proposed increase would allow a further 50,000 tonnes specifically for what RML describes as a new “waste recovery activity”.

NRW confirmed this week that the additional material would be used solely for “engineering and capping” purposes—namely, restoring the site using soil-based materials. According to the regulator, RML has depleted its on-site stock and now needs to import external material to continue these works.

But campaigners say the timing and nature of the request are unacceptable, given the site’s recent history.

Colin Barnett, a founder member of the campaign group Stop the Stink,

said: “We will be taking part in NRW’s consultation and will be insisting that rather than increasing the waste accepted, NRW should decrease it by 50,000 tonnes.”

“This whole saga began because they rammed waste they should not have accepted into that landfill. Until they can be trusted to manage the site professionally, the answer must be no to any increase.”

Mr Barnett and others have criticised NRW and Pembrokeshire County Council for what they view as premature scaling back of oversight, after the multiagency Incident Management Team (IMT) and Air Quality Group were both stood down earlier this year.

The IMT had been established in 2023 following a major public outcry over emissions from the landfill. Residents across Haverfordwest, Merlin’s Bridge and beyond complained of overpowering smells and health impacts linked to Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), a gas that smells like rotten eggs and can cause nausea, eye irritation and headaches.

One local described the site at the time as “a stink bomb on steroids.”

The site was temporarily closed in

May 2023 and only reopened in January this year after NRW confirmed that RML had completed all required compliance works. Despite this, odour complaints have continued, including a flare-up in Haverfordwest earlier this month (May 1), prompting further public anger.

PCC later stated that no landfillrelated odours were detected during its investigation of those complaints, while air quality monitoring at Spittal School has reportedly shown no exceedances attributable to the site.

NRW says it remains committed to unannounced inspections and that its investigation into previous breaches is ongoing.

“We recognise the high level of public interest in this landfill,” said a spokesperson. “We will be enhancing

our communications as part of the upcoming consultation. Further details will be shared in due course.”

But campaigners remain sceptical, warning that trust in the operator— and in the regulators—has been “shredded.”

“We would like to reassure residents that unlike NRW and PCC, we are still monitoring the landfill’s activities closely,” said Mr Barnett.

“People’s lives were turned upside down last year. You can’t just forget that because the wind changes direction for a few weeks.”

Have your say: Residents wishing to comment on the application can do so during NRW’s public consultation, details of which are expected to be released shortly.

Public safety warning issued for Ward’s Yard and Criterion Quay

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN is urging members of the public to stay away from Ward’s Yard in Milford Haven and Criterion Quay in Pembroke Dock due to ongoing concerns over public safety.

Despite enhanced security measures, individuals continue to access both sites illegally—damaging fencing and ignoring prominent warning signage in the process.

Both Ward’s Yard and Criterion Quay (also known locally as the offshore jetty) are privately owned by the Port of Milford Haven. The Port has warned that any unauthorised entry constitutes trespassing, and incidents involving criminal damage could result in prosecution.

Niall Yeomans, Head of Health, Safety and Security at the Port of Milford Haven, said:

“Safety is our key priority. Members of the public are continuously putting themselves—and our staff—at risk of serious harm by trespassing in these areas.

“Both locations are isolated and lie adjacent to deep water, making them particularly hazardous. There is a serious risk of slips, trips, and falls.”

The Port is asking anyone who witnesses suspicious activity at either site to contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately by calling 101.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

RML wants a formal variation to its existing environmental permit

Community groups invited to bid for new £3,000 fund

COMMUNITY organisations and charities across Pembrokeshire are being invited to apply for a share of £3,000, following the launch of a new funding initiative aimed at supporting grassroots projects across the county.

The Visit Pembrokeshire Community Fund, launched in partnership with holidaycottages. co.uk, will award three grants of £1,000 each to local groups whose work directly benefits the area. The deadline for applications is 7 July 2025.

Organisers say the fund is designed to support projects that help strengthen communities, enhance the environment, and boost the local economy. Suggested uses for the grant include the creation of community gardens, accessible signage such as braille and town trail maps, and new seating in public spaces—though innovative ideas are also encouraged.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The initiative marks the start of a new partnership between Visit Pembrokeshire and holidaycottages. co.uk, part of the Travel Chapter group, which aims to deliver tangible benefits to the places most popular with visitors.

Serena Pearce, Regional Communities Manager at Travel Chapter, said:

“We are incredibly excited to be launching this community

At holidaycottages.co.uk, we are passionate about supporting the communities where we operate, and we take great pride in giving back to the places our guests love to visit.

“By investing in local projects, we hope to create lasting, positive impacts that help towns and villages thrive

and remain cherished destinations for both visitors and residents. We can’t wait to get started and make a difference together.”

Emma Thornton, CEO of Visit Pembrokeshire, added:

“This partnership reflects our shared vision for Pembrokeshire to be a global leader in regenerative tourism. That means ensuring the visitor economy delivers a net positive for the people who live and work here, as well as those who visit.

“We’re grateful to holidaycottages. co.uk for joining us in this effort, and we look forward to seeing the impact of this collaboration.”

Holidaycottages.co.uk has already supported a number of community initiatives in the region, most recently sponsoring the Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim, which raised over £30,000 for local causes.

Applications for the Visit Pembrokeshire Community Fund can be submitted online. Full details, including eligibility criteria and the application form, are available at: www.visitpembrokeshire.com/ industry/community-fund-initiative The deadline for applications is Sunday 7 July 2025.

fund with Visit Pembrokeshire.

Welsh Government announces changes to Bovine TB policy

THE Welsh Government has unveiled further changes to its bovine TB (bTB) control policies, with new measures set to take effect this autumn.

Under the updated approach, standard reactor-positive cattle will be restricted to their home herd. Movements from affected herds will be allowed only under licence—either directly to slaughter or into an Approved Finishing Unit.

WE HAVE LISTENED, MINISTER CLAIMS

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, stated that the new steps directly address concerns raised by the agricultural industry.

“Industry asked, and we have listened,” he said. “Evidence shows that resolved standard IR (inconclusive reactor) cattle are at greater risk of developing bTB. Allowing them to move presents a risk of disease spread—a concern the industry has been vocal about.”

The announcement follows a 4% reduction in on-farm slaughter numbers across Wales, attributed to changes introduced in 2023. Mr Irranca-Davies acknowledged the emotional toll of bTB on farming communities, reiterating the Welsh Government’s commitment to a partnership approach via the TB Eradication Programme Board and its Technical Advisory Group.

Speaking ahead of his update to Members of the Senedd on Tuesday (May 13), Mr Irranca-Davies said: “Our collaborative approach is delivering real change. I’ve seen first-hand the distress bTB causes. That’s why we’re taking further steps to tackle this disease while supporting our farmers.”

The Welsh Government claims the policy shift has been positively received, with 242 animals from 111 herds spared on-farm slaughter over the past year due to delayed removals, a result of more flexible policy implementation.

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Two new members have now joined the TB Eradication Programme Board: a representative from the Farming Community Network (FCN) and a delegate from the Young Farmers’ Club Wales, highlighting the growing recognition of the mental health toll that bTB continues to have on farming families.

ON-FARM SLAUGHTER AND TESTING

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Richard Irvine, acknowledged the ongoing impact of bTB but pointed to improved detection as a positive step forward.

“While the overall number of new herd incidents continues to trend downward, the number of cattle slaughtered in 2024 has risen,” he said. “That increase is due in part to strategic use of the high-sensitivity gamma interferon blood test alongside standard testing.”

He stressed that although these measures result in higher removal numbers, they aim to reduce long-term infection rates and prevent repeat outbreaks.

A new initiative based on principles developed in Pembrokeshire—focused on empowering farmers and vets through data sharing and education—is now being rolled out in North Wales.

CALL FOR URGENT PROGRESS

Dai Miles, Deputy President of the FUW, welcomed the changes but stressed

Monkton man sentenced after drug-driving over Cleddau Bridge

A MONKTON man who was found to be under the influence of drugs while driving over the Cleddau Bridge has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Aaron Simpson, 33, was stopped by police at around 9:45am on November 7 after officers observed the manner in which he was driving his Nissan Sunny on the A477.

A roadside drugs wipe tested positive, and further analysis at the police station revealed that Simpson had 796 micrograms of benzoylecgonine — a cocaine breakdown product — and 5.2 micrograms of delta-9tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in his bloodstream. The legal limits are 50 micrograms and 2 micrograms respectively.

Simpson, of Tenby Court, Monkton, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of drugdriving. He chose to represent himself in court.

“I was on my way to work, but there’s no excuse for driving under the influence,” he said. “This disqualification is going to be tough as I just want to get up and work, not sit on my a***. But I’ve done what I’ve done, and it’s a crime.”

Magistrates sentenced him to 17 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months. He was also disqualified from driving for three years and ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs.

that bTB continues to cast a “dark shadow” over Welsh farming.

He said: “The FUW has long campaigned for reform of on-farm slaughter rules. A 25% reduction in on-farm slaughter since the policy shift is a welcome sign, and it has helped spare many families some of the most traumatic scenes imaginable.”

However, he added that the percentage of TB-free herds remains largely unchanged, and the continued rise in cattle slaughter numbers reflects the severity of the current situation.

Mr Miles said he welcomed the representation of the FCN and Young Farmers on the Programme Board.

“Their inclusion brings valuable insight—particularly when it comes to the mental health impacts of bTB and the views of the next generation of farmers,” he said. “We’re seeing a tentative step forward through collaborative governance, but we now need a truly holistic, scienceled approach to eradication.”

NFU Cymru Bovine TB Focus Group Chair Roger Lewis also welcomed the

inclusion of new stakeholders in bTB policy discussions but warned that progress still feels slow for affected farmers.

“The new governance structures are now operational, and we value the opportunity to be part of the conversation,” he said. “But the pace and scale of action must increase. Farmers are dealing with this crisis daily, and for many, progress is hard to see.”

Mr Lewis noted that over 13,000 cattle have already been slaughtered in 2024— the highest figure recorded in any 12-month period. While increased testing sensitivity plays a role, he said, the statistics reflect a wider crisis that is still deeply affecting Welsh agriculture.

SENEDD SCRUTINY

During questions in the Senedd on Tuesday, local MS Paul Davies challenged the Welsh Government’s approach, describing the eradication strategy as ineffective.

He asked: “Does the Cabinet Secretary really believe that a 27% rise in slaughtered cattle is a sign of progress?”

Defending the Government’s policies, Mr Irranca-Davies pointed to regional successes.

“What we are seeing is the benefit of working with farmers on biosecurity and movement controls,” he said. “It is difficult, but in places like Pembrokeshire we’re starting to see results.”

Hope for John Cooper as DNA clears man jailed in 1987

A MAN jailed for a brutal murder 38 years ago has today walked free from court after the Court of Appeal quashed his conviction—offering renewed hope to others claiming wrongful imprisonment, including Pembrokeshire’s most notorious inmate, John Cooper.

Peter Sullivan, now 68, was convicted in 1987 of the rape and murder of 21-year-old barmaid Diane Sindall, who was attacked while walking home from work in Birkenhead. Despite maintaining his innocence throughout, Sullivan spent nearly four decades behind bars—until new forensic testing revealed DNA from an unknown man on preserved crime scene samples.

The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) referred the case back to the Court of Appeal last year, and today (May 13), judges ruled that the fresh evidence completely undermined the original conviction.

Sullivan’s case is now believed to be the longest-known miscarriage of justice involving a living prisoner in British legal history.

The ruling highlights the growing role that advances in DNA science are playing in overturning unsafe convictions. It also raises serious questions about other historic cases— including that of John Cooper, who is currently serving a whole-life sentence for the 1985 murders of Richard and Helen Thomas in Scoveston Park and the 1989 killings of Gwenda and Peter Dixon near Little Haven.

Cooper’s 2011 conviction relied heavily on DNA and forensic evidence—particularly fibres and trace DNA allegedly linking him to the crime scenes years after the murders occurred. Advances in forensic science were hailed at the time for cracking the cold cases, but serious questions have since been raised about the handling and interpretation of that evidence. Critics argue that crucial items were poorly stored, contaminated, or even cross-referenced between unrelated

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

cases, with incomplete exhibit logs and inconsistencies in how samples were managed. There are also concerns that some forensic results were presented to the jury with greater certainty than the underlying science could justify, potentially prejudicing the verdict.

Cooper’s legal team submitted a detailed appeal dossier to the CCRC in 2023.

THE CASE IS NOW UNDER FORMAL REVIEW

Concerns raised include missing or contaminated forensic samples, questionable police procedures, and the alleged mixing of evidence from unrelated cases.

One of the team supporting cooper in his fight to get his name cleared said:

Teen remanded over knife threats outside Pembroke Dock home

A 19-yEAR-OlD has been remanded in custody after allegedly threatening to stab two men outside their home in Pembroke Dock.

Kaleb Thomas, who is of no fixed abode, is accused of confronting the pair on March 21 at an address in the Pennar area.

“He was outside their home address, making threats to stab them,” Crown Prosecutor Ann Griffiths told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Ms Griffiths said doorbell camera

footage suggested Thomas was in possession of a ten-inch knife at the time of the incident.

Thomas denies using threatening or abusive behaviour towards the men.

His trial is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on June 19.

Following a request by the Crown Prosecution Service, magistrates remanded Thomas in custody on the grounds that he may commit further offences, interfere with witnesses, or fail to surrender to bail.

“If there was nothing in it, the case would have been rejected already.”

He added that the Peter Sullivan ruling shows how persistent investigation and modern science can uncover serious flaws in past prosecutions. While Cooper remains behind bars, the momentum from today’s decision may shift public and legal focus back to the unresolved questions surrounding his case.

38

Young motorist banned after marginal drug-drive reading

A 19-yEAR-OlD motorist has been disqualified from driving after he was found to be marginally over the legal limit for cannabis.

Rudy Poole was stopped by police while driving his Ford Fiesta near the Penblewin roundabout at around 8:30am on December 28. A roadside drugs test proved positive, and subsequent analysis at the police station showed 2.4mcg of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in his system. The legal limit is 2mcg.

“This is a hard-working man and the repercussions of losing his licence

are going to be life-changing for him,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd, after Poole pleaded guilty to drug-driving.

“He was only just over the legal limit and there was no evidence of any bad driving.”

The court heard that a character reference submitted by Poole’s employer described him as a diligent and reliable worker.

Poole, of Glebe Cottages Lane, Lamphey, was disqualified from driving for 12 months. He was fined £250 and ordered to pay a £100 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

Cleared after

years: Peter Sullivan , was convicted in 1987

Welsh Government’s pandemic response ‘chaotic” and “ineffective’

THE UK Covid Inquiry has begun its latest public hearings with stark criticism of the UK and devolved governments’ handling of testing, tracing and isolation strategies during the coronavirus pandemic.

On the opening day of Module 7, which focuses on “Test, Trace and Isolate” (TTI) systems, serious concerns were raised about the Welsh Government’s effectiveness, coordination, and longterm preparedness.

SYSTEMIC FAILURES

Sophie Cartwright KC, lead counsel to the Inquiry, laid out a damning picture of systemic disarray across the four nations, including Wales. She highlighted that despite early warnings and international advice, the Welsh Government did not fully roll out its Test, Trace, Protect strategy until mid-May 2020. By that time, the virus had already swept through communities.

The Inquiry heard that on March 12, 2020, all four UK nations, including Wales, stopped community testing and contact tracing—despite the World Health Organisation’s call to “test, test, test.”

Professor Chris Whitty, the Chief Medical Officer, told a COBR meeting that day that mass testing and tracing would no longer be pursued, even as infections surged.

The result was, as Cartwright put it, a “disastrous blind spot” in surveillance and control. While countries like South Korea and Japan avoided national lockdowns through robust test-and-isolate systems, the UK suffered repeated waves.

Professor Anthony Costello estimated that over 180,000 deaths might have been prevented had the UK adopted similar strategies.

FAILURE TO PREPARE LED TO DELIVERY FAILINGS

Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees, representing Covid Bereaved Families for Justice Cymru, criticised the Welsh Government for failing to act on pandemic preparedness plans. She highlighted that Exercise Shipshape, a 2003 SARS simulation involving Wales, had already identified the importance of being able to test, trace and isolate effectively. Yet, none of those lessons were implemented. Marsh-Rees said there was a clear failure to build resilient infrastructure and no meaningful contingency planning, despite numerous simulations and warnings.

TESTING DELAYS MADE BAD SITUATION WORSE

Marsh-Rees gave a stark account of the absence of routine and repeat testing during the second wave of Covid-19 in Wales. She revealed that repeat testing of patients wasn’t introduced until January 2021, and even then, only every five days, compared to every three in England. Worse, healthcare workers were not regularly tested until February or March 2021, despite lateral flow tests

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

being available from November 2020. She stated bluntly that this oversight contributed to Wales having the highest rate of hospital-acquired (nosocomial) infections in the UK, calling it one of the group’s most heartbreaking concerns.

MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

Wales launched its Test, Trace, Protect plan on May 13, 2020. Then Health Minister Vaughan Gething promised increased capacity and localised response. However, the Inquiry was told that testing capacity remained limited, with many key functions outsourced to UK-wide services like Lighthouse Labs and delivery partners like Amazon, rather than utilising existing NHS and university laboratories in Wales.

A submission from the Royal College of Pathologists noted that many NHS and academic labs in the UK were sidelined, despite offering higher quality and faster results than the private facilities that were favoured instead. The Microbiology Society echoed these concerns, saying the government did not properly engage with universities and local experts in Wales and elsewhere.

The Inquiry heard that by mid-2020, Wales had access to six drive-through test centres, eight mobile units and a handful of community testing sites—but by then, the damage had already been done.

TOO lITTlE, TOO lATE

The Welsh Government’s SelfIsolation Support Scheme, launched in November 2020, was described as wellintentioned but too slow in implementation. Earlier schemes in Northern Ireland and England had started months prior.

Evidence submitted highlighted how economic necessity led many to avoid testing to avoid losing income.

“I remember people saying, ‘I can’t test because if I test and I’m positive, I can’t work,’” one person told the Inquiry.

AVOIDABLE FAILINGS

Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees, representing Covid Bereaved Families for Justice Cymru, spoke on behalf of those in Wales who lost loved ones due to what they describe as “avoidable government failings.”

And those government failings were stark.

The Welsh Government failed to act on pandemic preparedness plans. Former Health Minister Vaughan Gething previously confirmed to the Inquiry that he had not even read the outcome of a 2003 SARS simulation that identified the importance of being able to test, trace and isolate effectively. The Welsh Government failed to implement any of the lessons from that exercise.

DElAy lED TO DISASTER

Ms Marsh-Rees said, despite numerous simulations and warnings, there was a clear failure to build resilient infrastructure and no meaningful contingency planning.

Repeat testing of patients wasn’t introduced until January 2021, and, even then, every five days, compared to every three in England.

Healthcare workers were not regularly tested until February or March 2021, despite lateral flow tests being available from November 2020.

Ms Marsh-Rees said the oversight contributed to Wales having the highest rate of hospital-acquired infections in the UK.

The British Medical Association described the wait to introduce routine healthcare testing in Wales as “inordinate”.

Most health boards in Wales did not implement routine testing of healthcare workers until March 2021, and in one case, as late as July 2021.

THE WELSH WAY TO CALAMITY

The programme the Welsh Government adopted was specific to Wales and diverged significantly from the programmes in other nations of the United Kingdom.

Ms Marsh-Rees said the programme in Wales was chaotic; policies appeared ill-thought-out and ineffective, messaging was confused and confusing, and implementation was late and inconsistent.

She cited the Welsh Government’s failure to provide routine testing in care homes as an example.

On April 29, then-First Minister Mark Drakeford told the Senedd that routine tests were not offered in care homes because “the clinical evidence tells us there is no value in doing so.”

However, in evidence given to the Inquiry, the Welsh Government’s Head of Science, Robert Hoyle, queried the rationale, evidence, and advice behind Mr Drakeford’s comment.

Furthermore, whilst the policy mandated testing twice weekly, in practice, it only took place every five days.

WELSH GOVERNMENT “DIDN’T WANT TO KNOW”

In her closing remarks, Marsh-Rees accused the Welsh Government of appearing as though it did not want to know if people were testing positive, implying that awareness would have triggered obligations to act. She pointed out that 178 people had contracted Covid in Welsh hospitals just last week, five years into the pandemic.

“Testing has been forgotten—or proactively not undertaken,” she said. “It’s like a concerted effort not to find out.” Her testimony called for an internationally informed overhaul of public health strategy and an end to political pointscoring in future pandemic response

The Inquiry continues this week with further evidence from bereaved families, scientists, and public health experts from across the UK.

Jailed for grooming and sending sexual messages to ‘child’

A WEST WALES man has been jailed for 12 years after he was caught sending sexually explicit messages to what he believed was a 14-year-old girl.

GUY BRIGDALE, aged 34, from Fforestfach, Swansea began sending a string of graphic messages in January this year, targeting what he thought was a young teenager. The account, however, was a decoy set up as part of an undercover operation.

Brigdale, who has links to Pembrokeshire, pleaded guilty to the following offences:

Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child

Attempting to cause/incite a girl aged 13–15 to engage in sexual activity

Attempting to cause a child aged 13–15 to watch or look at an image of sexual activity

Attempting to meet a child under 16 following grooming

Breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order

He was sentenced to an extended 12-year term, which includes a lengthy custodial period followed by extended licence conditions.

Detective Sergeant Samuel Stanway of South Wales Police said:

“The messages sent by Guy Brigdale,

to an individual he believed was a child, were abhorrent.

“There is no place for anyone who willingly engages in sexual communication with a child in our society. It is very fortunate that this wasn’t a real child involved in the conversation, as they could have been posed a great danger by someone like Guy Brigdale.

“The right place for him is prison, as is highlighted by this lengthy sentence.”

Brigdale will remain under strict conditions upon release due to the nature of the offending and the risk he poses.

Jealous attack leaves man with life-changing injuries

A JEALOUSY-FUELLED altercation that left a man with lifechanging facial injuries has reached the courts this week, as 22-yearold Oscar Allen admitted causing grievous bodily harm in Tenby town centre.

Haverfordwest magistrates heard that the incident took place on the evening of November 25 in Bank Lane, Tenby, during a confrontation between Allen and the victim, Jason Page.

“It was the result of the defendant’s jealousy when his girlfriend spoke to another male,” said Crown Prosecutor Anne Griffiths.

“Both parties became angry, things escalated quickly, and the defendant carried out a punch to Mr Page’s face that rendered him unconscious.”

The court was told that both men had raised their fists before the blow, but it was Allen who struck first. His solicitor argued that Allen had felt threatened but

accepted that the punch went beyond reasonable self-defence.

The attack left Mr Page with a broken jaw, requiring extensive surgery and the insertion of a metal plate.

“This has had a lasting impact on my everyday life,” Mr Page said in a victim impact statement read in court.

“Social situations are now a huge struggle, and this is having a negative impact on me and my family. It’s also changed my physical appearance with

permanent scarring, and I no longer feel like the person I was before this happened.”

Mr Page added that he has not been able to return to Tenby since the incident.

Magistrates adjourned sentencing until June 3 to allow for a pre-sentence report to be completed by the probation service. Allen, of The Ridgeway, Penally, was released on unconditional bail.

Hedgehogs successfully rehomed at Bluestone National Park Resort

THIS month, May 2025, Bluestone National Park Resort in Wales has rehomed three juvenile hedgehogs aged one year old as part of the five-star holiday resort’s long-standing partnership with Pembrokeshire Hogspital. Pembrokeshire Hogspital rescues and rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs, returning them to the wild in most cases.

Three hedgehogs, twin brothers and a single unrelated female, are now in the process of a soft release at Bluestone National Park Resort. A purpose-built lodge is made for them, gradually they are given more space, the fences are then taken away, and food will continue to be provided for them until eventually they are successfully integrated into the wild.

Marten Lewis, director of sustainability at Bluestone, said: “Over the past five years, Bluestone has been part of several heartwarming hedgehog releases. This spring we were delighted to have rehomed and released more hedgehogs who have received incredible care from Pembrokeshire Hogspital. This one is extra special as we also got a little help from our community, asking Bluestone’s social media followers to name the hedgehogs’ new ‘lodges’;

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

so, the new official lodge names are Tŷ Draenog and Hodge Lodge.”

Bluestone has a longstanding partnership of five years with its

local Hogspital, having donated money for an intensive care unit to provide incubators for looking after baby hedgehogs; and serving as an emergency release site, which is a safe place for hedgehogs that are ready to leave the Hogspital but for

a variety of reasons can’t be taken back to where they were found.

Find out more about how people and the planet are at the heart of Bluestone National Park Resort and book a stay at bluestonewales.com

Tufnell secures pledge to improve GP access across Pembrokeshire

A CAMPAIGN to improve GP access across Pembrokeshire has taken a significant step forward this week following a meeting between local MP Henry Tufnell and the Chief Executive of Hywel Dda Health Board.

The Herald understands that during the meeting it was agreed that best practice would be established across all GP surgeries in the county— something Mr Tufnell has been calling for since launching his primary care campaign several months ago.

The move follows a detailed public survey conducted by the MP, in which hundreds of residents voiced concerns over delays in securing GP appointments and inconsistent service levels across different practices.

In a video message posted to social media, Mr Tufnell said: “After a constructive meeting with Professor Phillip Kloer, I am pleased that we are both on the same page and recognise the need for real action in response to the needs of our community.

“For months now, I have raised the need for improvements, and thanks to the powerful feedback from my recent survey, we are on the right

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

path to establishing best practices that will benefit everyone across Pembrokeshire. We must finally see an end to the postcode lottery of accessing primary care.”

Mr Tufnell is expected to meet with Professor Kloer again later this summer to assess whether the promised improvements are being implemented effectiely.

He added: “I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to complete my survey on GP services. Your input is making a real difference, and together, we can continue to improve the healthcare services that are so vital to our community.”

The MP has also launched a new survey to gather public feedback on access to NHS dental services in the area.

Residents wishing to take part in the dental survey can do so online HERE.

https://actionnetwork.org/forms/ mid-and-south-pembrokeshire-nhsdentist-access-survey/

Pembrokeshire prepares for Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

local services step up to support growing demand as communityfocused theme takes centre stage

PEMBROKESHIRE will mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 from Monday, May 12 to Sunday, May 18, with a renewed focus on connection, compassion, and local support.

This year’s theme — “Community” — highlights the vital role of relationships, grassroots services and social belonging in protecting mental wellbeing. Across the county, local charities, counsellors and volunteerled projects are rising to meet growing demand for mental health support in the face of deepening rural isolation, post-pandemic pressures and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

To coincide with the national awareness campaign, The Pembrokeshire Herald has compiled a

special eight-page feature showcasing the county’s key mental health charities and support networks — many of which offer free, local and confidential help to anyone struggling.

From professional counselling and crisis intervention to drop-in cafés and mobile outreach vans, these organisations form a lifeline for hundreds of people each year. Whether you’re a farmer facing mounting stress, a young person experiencing anxiety, or someone simply in need of someone to talk to, support is closer than you think.

The Herald’s feature begins with Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind, one of the county’s largest providers of mental health support, followed by indepth profiles on:

• Pathway Counselling

• Adferiad Recovery

• The DPJ Foundation

• West Wales Action for Mental Health (WWAMH)

• Megan’s Starr Foundation

• Give The Boys A Lift

Each article explores how these services operate, what they offer, and how to get in touch — offering a clear guide for anyone seeking help, or looking to support the work being done.

With 1 in 4 people experiencing a mental health issue each year in the UK, and rural areas often facing greater barriers to access, the importance of community-based support has never been greater.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs help, the following services are available in Pembrokeshire and nationally:

Key Support Contacts:

• NHS Mental Health 111 (Option 2) – 24/7 urgent mental health support: Call 111 and select option 2

• Samaritans – Free, 24/7 confidential listening: Call 116 123

• Shout – Text-based crisis support, 24/7: Text “SHOUT” to 85258

• The DPJ Foundation Helpline – 24/7 for rural and farming communities: 0800 587 4262

• Mind Infoline – Information on mental health and services: 0300 123 3393

• YoungMinds Textline – Support for young people: Text “YM” to 85258

Over the coming pages, The Herald explores how Pembrokeshire is responding to the mental health crisis — not just with words, but with action.

Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind: Supporting mental wellbeing across West Wales

LOCAL branch of national charity provides vital mental health services and community support

Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind is a leading mental health charity operating in the heart of West Wales, delivering essential services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges across Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. As part of the larger Mind network, this independent branch has become a lifeline for many people in rural communities where access to services can be limited.

The charity offers a range of services designed to promote emotional wellbeing and resilience. These include drop-in sessions, oneto-one mental health support, and a specialist Evening Mental Health Support service operating from 5:00pm to 2:00am, Thursday through Sunday. This out-of-hours provision has been particularly well received, offering critical assistance to people when many other services are closed.

Additionally, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind runs a series of

free wellbeing activities, including art therapy, gardening projects, and yoga sessions — all designed to help people reduce stress and build a supportive network. The charity also provides employment support, working with individuals who are looking to return to work or retain their job while managing mental health conditions.

One of the key strengths of the organisation is its focus on lived experience. Many staff and volunteers have personal experience of mental health issues, creating an empathetic and nonjudgemental environment. Their “Peer Support” groups bring people together to share experiences, reduce isolation, and build confidence in a safe and welcoming space

Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind also works closely with local GPs, schools, and public health teams to improve awareness and early intervention. Their outreach into schools and colleges helps

young people understand mental health and access help early on, potentially preventing long-term issues.

With a dedicated team based in both Haverfordwest and Carmarthen, the charity remains firmly embedded in the local community. It continues to adapt and grow in response to rising demand, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing cost-of-living crisis, which have significantly impacted people’s mental wellbeing.

For anyone seeking support or wanting to get involved, whether as a volunteer or donor, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind offers a welcoming hand.

Contact information: Website: www.pcmind.org.uk

Phone: 01267 222990

Email: enquiries@pcmind.org.uk

Address: The Mount, 18 Wellfield Road, Carmarthen, SA31 1DS https://www.pcmind.org.uk/

Pathway Counselling:

Free, accessible support for those in emotional distress

H AVERFORDWEST - BASED service offers professional counselling to people across Pembrokeshire

Pathway Counselling is a vital mental health service based in Haverfordwest, providing free counselling support to individuals facing emotional and psychological challenges across Pembrokeshire. Run as part of the wider Pembrokeshire Action for the Homeless (PATH) organisation, Pathway Counselling is open to everyone — not just those experiencing housing difficulties.

Established to bridge the growing gap in mental health services, the charity offers a lifeline for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, and other emotional difficulties. Unlike many mainstream services, which often come with long waiting lists or financial barriers, Pathway Counselling is committed to accessibility. Sessions are provided completely free of charge, thanks to funding from the National Lottery and other grants.

The charity employs qualified, experienced counsellors and also supports the development of student counsellors, offering placement opportunities under professional supervision. This model enables Pathway to expand its reach while maintaining high standards of care.

One of the strengths of Pathway Counselling is its flexibility. Clients can access support both in person at their discreet Haverfordwest location and online via secure video platforms, making it easier for people in rural or remote areas of Pembrokeshire to engage.

This hybrid approach has proved especially valuable in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping those who may struggle to travel or feel more comfortable receiving support from home.

In addition to one-to-one counselling, Pathway also offers workshops and group sessions on topics such as managing anxiety, building self-esteem, and developing coping strategies. These group offerings help foster a sense of community and mutual support among participants.

Pathway Counselling is particularly aware of the stigma that can surround mental health, especially in rural Welsh communities. Its approach is sensitive, person-centred, and confidential, ensuring that clients feel safe and respected at all times. The charity also works closely with other local services and can signpost clients to additional support, including housing advice, food banks, and domestic abuse services.

By providing timely, compassionate, and professional support to those in need, Pathway Counselling continues to be a trusted mental health resource for the people of Pembrokeshire.

Contact information: Website: www.pathwaycounselling. uk

Email: counselling@ pembrokeshireaction.org

Phone: 01437 765335

Address: 21A Cartlett, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 2LH

Adferiad Recovery:

Practical help and housing support for people with complex needs

Pembrokeshire services provide tailored assistance for those managing serious mental illness and substance misuse

Adferiad Recovery is a Wales-wide charity that offers specialist support to individuals and families facing complex challenges — including serious mental illness, addiction, and housing instability. In Pembrokeshire, the charity runs several dedicated projects that provide practical, emotional, and social support to

some of the county’s most vulnerable residents.

The name “Adferiad” means “recovery” in Welsh, reflecting the charity’s core mission: to help people rebuild their lives and regain independence. Through local services based in Pembrokeshire, Adferiad’s staff work closely with clients to understand their individual needs and deliver personalised support.

One of the standout projects in the region is the Seibiant Mental

Health Community Support Project, which offers one-to-one support and group activities to people living with serious mental illness. It also provides respite and wellbeing support for unpaid carers — an often overlooked group under immense pressure. Seibiant’s focus on community, compassion, and continuity of care helps foster trust and long-term engagement.

Another crucial service is the Mental Health Community Housing Support Project, which helps individuals with enduring mental health conditions to live independently. The service supports clients in finding and maintaining accommodation, managing finances, accessing healthcare, and developing life skills. For many, this kind of wraparound support is what makes independent living possible.

Adferiad’s approach is holistic and trauma-informed. They understand that mental health difficulties are often intertwined with other issues — such as substance misuse, domestic violence, or poverty — and they provide

coordinated responses rather than siloed services. In Pembrokeshire, staff work closely with local authorities, NHS services, housing providers, and community groups to ensure seamless support for those in crisis.

The charity also plays a vital advocacy role, campaigning for better mental health services and contributing to Welsh Government consultations on health and social care. Their lived-experienceinformed model ensures that service users have a voice in shaping the help they receive.

For people who feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, Adferiad Recovery offers practical steps forward and hope for a better future.

Contact information: Website: www.adferiad.org

Seibiant Mental Health Project: Seibiant Project Details Housing Support: Housing Support Project Details General enquiries: info@adferiad.org Phone: 01792 816600

The DPJ Foundation:

Tackling rural mental health in Wales’ farming communities

SPECIALIST support for those in agriculture facing stress, depression, and isolation

The DPJ Foundation is a unique Welsh mental health charity dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of people working in agriculture and rural industries — especially farmers, who are at significantly higher risk of depression and suicide than the general population. With roots in Pembrokeshire, the charity has grown to serve rural communities across Wales while remaining deeply committed to its local origins.

Founded in memory of Daniel Picton-Jones, a young Pembrokeshire farmer who took his own life in 2016, the charity was set up by his wife, Emma, to address the silence around mental health in farming communities. Since then, the DPJ Foundation has become a vital and trusted voice, offering practical help and emotional support tailored to the unique pressures of rural life.

Farming can be physically isolating, financially precarious, and emotionally draining — factors that often prevent individuals from seeking help. Recognising this, the DPJ Foundation created a 24/7 confidential helpline called “Share the Load,” staffed by trained counsellors who understand the realities of agricultural life. Farmers and their families can call without fear of judgement and get immediate access to advice, support, and ongoing counselling referrals.

The charity also offers a fully funded counselling service, ensuring

that those who need professional help receive it quickly and locally.

Counsellors will travel directly to farms or offer telephone/video sessions, removing common barriers to access like travel or stigma. The waiting time for counselling is often just days — significantly faster than many NHS routes.

In addition to reactive support, the DPJ Foundation works proactively to improve awareness. They deliver mental health awareness training to businesses, agricultural organisations, and colleges, aiming to normalise conversations about mental health. Their “Are Ewe OK?” campaign uses clever branding and real stories from farmers to engage hard-to-reach audiences.

Crucially, the charity listens to the farming community itself, regularly adjusting its approach based on what people say they need. Whether it’s attending livestock marts, visiting Young Farmers’ Clubs, or running community events, the DPJ Foundation meets people where they are — both literally and emotionally.

Their motto, “It’s OK not to be OK,” is more than a slogan — it’s a lifeline.

Contact information:

Website: www.thedpjfoundation. co.uk

Email: contact@thedpjfoundation. co.uk

Helpline: Call or text 0800 587 4262 (24/7)

Registered Address: Ty Twt, Clynderwen, Pembrokeshire, SA66 7NP

West Wales Action for Mental Health: Championing rights and recovery in the community

SUPPORTING mental health services, carers, and service users through advocacy and partnership West Wales Action for Mental Health (WWAMH) is a regional charity that plays a key coordinating and advocacy role in the mental health landscape across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Ceredigion. While not a frontline clinical service provider, WWAMH works behind the scenes to strengthen the mental health support system, raise awareness, and ensure that the voices of those

affected by mental illness are heard at every level.

Established in 1992, WWAMH acts as a bridge between individuals with lived experience, voluntary organisations, statutory services (such as the NHS), and local authorities. The charity supports collaboration, partnership, and dialogue — all aimed at improving mental health outcomes in West Wales.

One of WWAMH’s core missions is empowerment. The organisation helps individuals and carers to understand

their rights, navigate the mental health system, and participate in decisions about their care. They provide information sessions, service user forums, and advocacy support to ensure people are informed, respected, and included.

WWAMH also works with smaller grassroots mental health organisations, helping them develop projects, secure funding, and improve governance. This support strengthens the local mental health network as a whole, ensuring that help is available in communities rather than centralised in a few urban centres.

In Pembrokeshire, WWAMH has partnered with various community organisations to deliver innovative wellbeing projects. These include arts for wellbeing programmes, mental health training for community workers, and initiatives supporting older adults, carers, and young people. They also support suicide prevention work and promote trauma-informed practices across sectors.

A key part of WWAMH’s work

is influencing policy and strategy. The charity sits on health boards and planning groups, bringing the lived experience of service users into strategic decision-making processes. They campaign to challenge stigma, improve services, and promote mental health equality.

The organisation is also involved in crisis planning and safeguarding work, advocating for systems that support recovery rather than punitive approaches. This includes contributing to regional mental health strategies and ensuring service user feedback informs future models of care.

WWAMH’s quiet but powerful presence in West Wales continues to make a real difference to how mental health is understood, supported, and prioritised across the region.

Contact information: Website: www.wwamh.org.uk

Email: admin@wwamh.org.uk

Phone: 01267 245572

Address: The Mount, 18 Wellfield Road, Carmarthen, SA31 1DQ

Megan’s Starr Foundation:

Healing hearts through hope, youth outreach, and community care

Milford Haven charity offers counselling, creative projects, and safe spaces for young people and families

Megan’s Starr Foundation is a Pembrokeshire-based mental health charity rooted in both heartbreak and hope. Founded by family and friends in memory of Megan Louise Davies –a young woman who tragically took her own life in 2017 at the age of 20 – the charity’s mission is to support children, young people, and families affected by mental health struggles, suicide, and trauma.

Operating from its base in Milford Haven, Megan’s Starr Foundation offers free, professional counselling for children, young people, and adults, with a trauma-informed approach that centres compassion and confidentiality. The charity’s therapeutic services are tailored to individual needs, including support for self-harm, grief, anxiety, and depression.

What makes Megan’s Starr Foundation unique is its strong focus on prevention and community outreach. One of its standout features is the Community Coffee House in Milford Haven — a safe, welcoming drop-in space offering hot drinks, snacks, and informal support. It’s a place where anyone, regardless of background, can simply come and talk, be heard, or seek help without pressure.

In an effort to reach rural areas where isolation is high and services limited, the Foundation also operates a mobile Speakeasy Coffee & Shake Van, taking its message and services to villages, school car parks, and

events throughout Pembrokeshire. This innovative outreach approach breaks down barriers, particularly for those who might not normally engage with mental health support.

Beyond counselling and crisis support, Megan’s Starr Foundation delivers awareness workshops in schools and community centres, educating young people about mental health, self-care, resilience, and suicide prevention. Their youth team works with schools to help embed a culture of openness around emotional wellbeing.

The charity also provides peer support groups, including a bereavement group and regular youth sessions where young people can socialise, take part in creative activities, and build confidence in a supportive environment.

Driven by a personal story but powered by community spirit, Megan’s Starr Foundation continues to grow its reach and reputation. Its name, and its work, are reminders that every life matters — and that no one should face mental health challenges alone.

Contact information: Website: WWW.megansstarr.com Email: megansstarrfoundation@ gmail.com Phone: 07709 479555

Community Coffee House: 18 Charles Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2HE Facebook: @ megansstarrfoundation

GET The Boys A Lift:

Driving mental health awareness through coffee, culture, and conversation

Pembrokeshire charity breaks down stigma with creative outreach and open-door support

Get The Boys A Lift (GTBAL) is a mental health charity based in Pembrokeshire that has carved out a unique space in the local landscape by combining support, creativity, and social enterprise. Known for its warm, community-centred approach, GTBAL helps people talk about mental health openly—through coffee, music, art, and friendly faces.

The charity began in 2018 as

a grassroots initiative by a group of friends determined to start conversations about mental health in a relaxed, accessible way. Since then, it has grown into a registered charity with its own mental health hub, a quirky and welcoming coffee shop in Haverfordwest that doubles as a drop-in centre and community space.

GTBAL offers free counselling sessions, a listening service, and low-cost therapy delivered by qualified professionals and supported volunteers. Their approach is informal

and stigma-free, aimed especially at young people and men—two groups who are statistically less likely to seek help through traditional channels.

One of the charity’s key strengths is its ability to blend mental health support with creativity and social enterprise. The GTBAL café is not only a safe space for conversation but also a hub of activity. Local musicians perform there, young artists exhibit their work, and community groups meet regularly. All profits from the café go directly back into providing free mental health services.

The team also runs outreach programmes in schools, workplaces, and events across Pembrokeshire. These include mental health awareness talks, interactive workshops, and creative therapy sessions. The aim is always to make mental health conversations as normal as talking about the weather.

GTBAL has also produced its own merchandise line, with thought-

provoking slogans designed to get people talking. Hoodies, mugs, and posters bearing messages like “It’s okay to not be okay” help spread awareness while generating income for the cause.

Run by a team of passionate staff and volunteers, GTBAL stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when a community pulls together. Whether someone wants to talk, needs counselling, or just wants a cup of coffee in a safe space, GTBAL is there — no judgment, just support.

Contact information: Website: https://gtbal.co.uk/ Email: info@givetheboysalift.co.uk

Phone: 07394 739866

Address: GTBAL Coffee House, 27 Dew Street, Haverfordwest, SA61 1ST Instagram/Facebook: @ givetheboysalift

Trefin celebrates VE Day 80th anniversary in style

THE PICTURESQUE village of Trefin in north Pembrokeshire burst into colour and song last week as residents came together to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a heartfelt tribute that blended history, humour and community pride.

Local celebrations were part of a national programme commemorating Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 1945 – the day World War II ended in Europe. In true Trefin spirit, the community ensured their tribute was both moving and memorable.

The festivities began with the official reading of the VE80 Proclamation, “Together We Stand,” delivered by village stalwart Abe Williams. Dressed in ceremonial robes and accompanied by a piper playing Celebratum – a specially composed piece for the occasion – Williams’ proclamation set the tone for a day of remembrance and joy.

The highlight came on Saturday when more than 40 residents donned wartime costumes and paraded through the village’s main street. Led by Abe Williams and a delightfully dressed border collie, the procession featured everything from Land Girls and Home Guard volunteers to a Winston Churchill lookalike flashing the iconic ‘V for Victory’ sign.

Vintage tractors and vehicles flew Union Jack and Welsh flags, with local farmer Martyn Hood’s tractor stealing the show, adorned with VE Day 80 bunting and cheer. Choir leader Sue Hood, seated on hay bales in the back of a trailer, waved to onlookers as she was towed through the village.

The community choir, Côr y Felin, clad in vibrant red, added music and mischief to the proceedings, while the “arrest” of a mock gangster by costumed police drew laughter from the crowd.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The festivities concluded at the Ship Inn, where a wartime-themed kneesup got underway. Locals enjoyed music, dancing, and traditional fare. Even the village pets got involved, with a Union Jack-draped bulldog posing proudly as unofficial mascot of the day.

Trefin’s VE Day celebration wasn’t just about looking back. It was a reminder of the enduring strength of rural communities, the importance of unity, and the joy found in coming together – values as relevant today as they were eight decades ago.

Pictures : Laura Miller

Pembrokeshire beaches best in Wales with 17 Coast Awards

PEMBROKESHIRE has been officially named home to the best beaches in Wales, securing a record-breaking 17 Wales Coast Awards in 2025—more than any other part of the country.

The results, released today (Thursday) by environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy, recognise coastal locations across Wales for exceptional environmental standards, excellent water quality, and a commitment to education and sustainability.

Out of the 49 beaches honoured across Wales, Pembrokeshire claimed 10 of the 21 Blue Flag Awards, including well-known locations such as Tenby South and North, Poppit Sands, Broad Haven (North), Newgale, Dale, Whitesands and Coppet Hall.

Saundersfoot and Tenby Castle beaches are also celebrating their 25th consecutive year holding Blue Flag status—an international mark of environmental quality administered by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). All of Pembrokeshire’s Blue Flag beaches have successfully retained their awards from last year.

In addition to its Blue Flag successes, Pembrokeshire also leads Wales in the number of Green Coast Awards, which are given to more remote, unspoilt beaches with high environmental standards. Of the 13 Green Coast Awards presented this year, seven went to Pembrokeshire beaches: Aberiddy, Freshwater East, Manorbier, Penally, Caerfai, Druidstone and West Angle Bay.

The Green Coast Award celebrates lesser-known, “hidden gem” beaches that offer natural beauty alongside excellent water quality and

environmental care.

Keep Wales Tidy has managed the Wales Coast Awards for over 20 years. The awards play a vital role in protecting the Welsh marine environment and are internationally recognised as a symbol of quality. To qualify, beaches must meet rigorous criteria on water quality, public information, environmental education, safety, and site management.

In addition to the Blue Flag and Green Coast accolades, 15 beaches across Wales earned the Seaside Award—a UK-only honour that signifies clean, attractive, and wellmanaged stretches of coastline. This year’s Seaside Award winners include

Aberystwyth South and North, New Quay Harbour, Aberavon in Neath Port Talbot, and Whitmore Bay and Jackson’s Bay in Barry Island.

Owen Derbyshire, Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy, praised Pembrokeshire’s outstanding performance.

“The Wales Coast Awards are a fantastic celebration of Wales’ beautiful and diverse coastline,” he said.

“They are testament to the huge effort of staff and volunteers at sites across Wales. Thank you to everyone who works so hard to protect and preserve our natural landscape in the face of increasingly challenging circumstances.”

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services at Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “We are incredibly proud to once again receive the highest number of Wales Coast Awards.

Pembrokeshire is rightly recognised as being home to some of the world’s best beaches, but it takes hard work and year-round commitment to maintain these standards and secure prestigious awards like the Blue Flag and Green Coast.”

“We look forward to welcoming both residents and visitors to our outstanding beaches this summer.” A full list of this year’s awardwinning beaches is available on the Keep Wales Tidy website.

Peppa Pig heads to the Torch for a cinema adventure full of family fun

PEPPA PIG is back on the big screen this half term with a brand new adventure – and this time, there’s a new baby in the family!

The Peppa Meets the Baby Cinema Experience is coming to the Torch Theatre, promising an oinktastic outing for children and their families. Join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig as they prepare for the arrival of a new sibling, with plenty of laughs, mischief, and touching moments along the way.

This special cinema experience features 10 brand new episodes, six catchy new songs, and music videos that are perfect for singing and dancing along with your favourite piggy pals. Expect house renovations, car shopping, and plenty of heartfelt

family fun.

“This is the perfect first cinema trip for little ones,” said Anwen Francis of the Torch Theatre marketing team.

“We just adore Peppa Pig here at the Torch – she always brings smiles to faces young and old. We’re so excited to welcome families to enjoy her latest adventure.”

Screenings of Peppa Meets the Baby will take place at 12:30pm on Friday, 30 May; Saturday, 31 May; and Sunday, 1 June.

Ticket prices are: Family (4 people) – £24, Adults – £7.50, Concessions –£7, and Under 16s – £6.

For more information or to book, visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Fire crews test skills in airport training exercise

FIREFIGHTERS from Haverfordwest and Milford Haven were put through their paces last week during a specialist training exercise held at Withybush Airport.

The operation, known as Exercise Red Kite, was carried out on Wednesday (Apr 29) and saw teams from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) simulate an emergency response at the airport, putting their incident command and rescue skills to the test.

As part of the exercise, crews deployed foam carriers and a water bowser, practising a complex rescue scenario designed to mirror the challenges of a real-life airport incident.

Station Manager Aled Lewis described the day as a valuable learning opportunity.

“Exercise Red Kite gave crews the chance to work together across stations, sharpen their operational response, and train in a realistic setting,” he said. “We’re very grateful to Withybush Airport for making the site available.”

The training forms part of the fire service’s ongoing commitment to readiness and teamwork in highpressure environments.

for further details and to register their interest.

Chief Scout honours Pembrokeshire boy with ‘Unsung Hero’ award

GEORGE BROMWICH from Pembrokeshire has been recognised with the prestigious Scouts’ ‘Unsung Hero’ award for his exceptional fundraising efforts in memory of family members lost to cancer.

The award was presented by Chief Scout Dwayne Fields at a special ceremony on May 9 at Gilwell Park, the historic home of the Scouts movement. Twenty young people from across the UK were selected from more than 100 nominations – out of 475,000 Scouts nationwide – for acts of bravery, compassion and service to their communities.

Together, the winners were responsible for saving eight lives, volunteering hundreds of hours, supporting others through difficult times, and raising an estimated £56,000 for causes close to their hearts.

George was moved to act after losing both his uncle and aunt to cancer, and witnessing his mother’s own battle with the illness. Wanting to contribute to “the science” that helps people recover, George set himself the challenge of walking 50 miles in six weeks to raise £150 for a cancer charity.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

He began by taking daily walks through the Pembrokeshire countryside, including along Brunel Way, often in harsh weather. His

journey was documented in a short video shared by his mother on social media, which quickly went viral. The groundswell of support led to the creation of a dedicated Facebook

page where George regularly posted updates and thanked supporters.

Not only did George exceed his distance target – walking 70 miles in total – but he also raised an astonishing £3,300, with help and encouragement from his school friends along the way. He continues to inspire others through his online platforms under the name George’s Fundraising Walks.

The Unsung Heroes Award celebrates young people from across the Scouts’ age range – from Squirrels and Beavers to Explorers and Network members – who have demonstrated extraordinary courage, leadership, and dedication. Nominations were submitted by Scout volunteers, with the winners chosen by a panel of Scout Ambassadors led by the Chief Scout.

Chief Scout Dwayne Fields said: “A huge congratulations to the winners of this remarkable award for their courage and selflessness in the community. Being part of the Scouts gives young people skills for life, and the stories of these award winners truly represent the very best of Scouting values. I want to thank you all for your dedication – this is a truly outstanding achievement.”

Families, friends, and Scout leaders gathered at Gilwell Park to celebrate the winners’ achievements and witness the presentation of this newest and most heartfelt Scout honour.

MAWWFRS is currently looking to recruit new on-call firefighters across the region. Anyone interested can

visit the service’s website

Councillor urges men to get tested following stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis

A MILFORD HAVEN councillor diagnosed with incurable prostate cancer is urging men across Pembrokeshire to take action and get tested.

Councillor Guy Woodham, former Mayor of Milford Haven, is backing a major awareness campaign led by Welsh charity Prostate Cymru, which is offering free PSA blood tests as part of a national screening drive. The next testing event will be held at Narberth RFC on Saturday, 1 June.

Cllr Woodham, now 56, was fit, healthy and had no symptoms when his GP suggested a routine check-up.

“My PSA level was slightly raised, which led to more tests,” he said. “I braced myself to be told I might need surgery, but nothing prepared me for the news that it was already stage four and had spread to my bones. I now have incurable, advanced cancer.”

He added: “There’s currently no screening programme, and some GPs are still reluctant to offer the PSA test. But it’s all we’ve got. I had no symptoms, and yet I was already stage four. My message is simple: get tested. It could save your life.”

Prostate Cymru is aiming to test over 3,000 men across Wales amid ongoing concerns that too many men struggle to access free PSA tests through their GP. So far, more than 1,400 men have been tested at events in Kenfig Hill, Cowbridge, Brecon and Swansea — with 90 red alerts issued to men requiring urgent follow-up.

Men aged 50 or over are eligible for a free test, with that threshold reduced to 45 for those with a family history of the disease or for Black men, who are statistically at higher risk.

The Narberth event is being supported by JCP Solicitors, which has named Prostate Cymru its Charity of the Year. CEO Hayley Davies said: “One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Early detection

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

makes all the difference.”

On the day, attendees will be able to speak with a specialist nurse and consultant about the PSA test and the next steps if results are elevated.

A further testing event will take place at Aberystwyth RFC on Sunday, 8 June, with plans to expand the campaign into North Wales later this year.

To register for a test, email psatest@prostatecymru.com or visit www.prostatecymru.com.

MIKE EDWARDS

My beloved’s command of language never ceases to surprise me.

Not only can she speak both Welsh and English, but she can also get by in conversational Cantonese – a legacy of working as a nurse in Hong Kong.

Most surprising is her capacity to produce paint-stripping language at will in a number of other languages. A skill acquired over her many years’ working with a number of nationalities in hospitals across South and West Wales.

Apparently, when nurses are not being ministering angels to the sick they spend quite a lot of time exchanging professional development tips about swearing. Or so Mrs Edwards claims.

Last weekend, I was busy in the living room watching cricket when I heard a loud shriek coming from the patio, followed by a loud clatter, my screamed name, and a string of inventive obscenity. Nervously, I poked my head out of the back door.

My most darling one was atop the patio table, small trowel in a hand pointing tremblingly at a small hole under the garden shed.

I could make out the word ‘rat’ amidst invective being broadcast at somewhere north of 130 decibels.

I was concerned about disturbing the neighbours and asked the wife to tone it down.

With that, the doorbell rang.

I left the wife to answer the bell. It was our neighbours, the Reverend Mike, carrying their Norwich terrier, and his husband Joel.

They were concerned for my wife’s welfare and – incidentally – about the heightened level of her bad language, I explained the situation and the Reverend nodded understandingly and hugged their pooch closer to his chest. With that, there was another clatter from the rear of the house and more yelling. I didn’t recognise the language being used but it was evident that Joel did. In so far as he could blanch, blanched.

The wife had decided that swearing was fine as long as nobody could understand what she was saying. Unfortunately, the Yoruba tongue was well-known to Joel, who bent over and muttered something in the Reverend’s right ear.

With a certain frosty hauteur, our neighbours wished us both well and departed with many a backwards glance over their shoulders as they retreated down the drive.

I returned to the patio, negotiated my beloved’s descent from the patio table and blocked the hole into which the wife’s rodent tormentor had scuttled. I assured her I would deploy all available means to deter the little critter and his ilk from returning.

Later that evening, we were sitting in the living room as the English council electionresults came in.

The wife, who has a keen interest in the electoral pain being visited upon the Conservatives, then expanded my own knowledge of the English language.

A short plump Conservative MP resembling a cross between Billy Bunter’s stunt double and two sacks of raspberry yoghurt stuffed into a suit was on the TV.

I don’t profess to know what ‘Cockwombly’ is but the wife assured me he was speaking it. Truly her linguistic skills are remarkable.

Young people transform Haverfordwest underpass with vibrant mural

A ONCE-DULL underpass in Haverfordwest has been transformed into a vibrant, eye-catching mural thanks to the creativity and hard work of five young people from the Haverfordwest High VC King’s Trust group, led by Youth Worker Ell Lewis. Supported by a Youth Bank Grant, GD Harries & Sons and funds raised

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

through raffles, cake sales, and bingo events at their school, the group collaborated with local businesses and the community to bring their vision to life. The result is a stunning

“This mural is more than just art –it’s a statement,” said Ell Lewis, Youth Worker at HHVCS. “It reflects the young people’s connection to their community, their appreciation for Youth Work, and the impact youth services have on their lives.”

Incorporated into the design is personal elements significant to the artists, including a visual tribute to the daily check-in system used in their Youth Work sessions highlighting the essential role of emotional support and connection in their development. “This is exactly what we need to see on our way to school in the morning” one participant shared. “It’s put a smile on our faces, and this is important for our wellbeing”.

Passersby have praised the mural, with many commenting on how it has transformed an overlooked area into a bright and inspiring space; “We hope this is just the start,” one resident commented. “The group has poured colour into their community. It would be great to see the project continue down the rest of the tunnels.”

public artwork that not only adds a splash of colour to the town but also represents Haverfordwest heritage and the voices, experiences and pride of Haverfordwest’s young people.

“This project is our legacy,” said one participant. “We’ve created something lasting that represents who we are and where we come from, it’s pretty amazing what a cup of tea and a conversation can result in.”

To bring their vision to life, the group collaborated with professional graffiti artist Lloyd, who led workshops involving young people, local businesses and community groups.

“This has been a project I’ve loved being part of from start to finish; the young people involved are a credit to the town and were great to work with,” explained Lloyd. “To not only come up with the idea, but to raise the funds and then take part in the painting as well, I was seriously impressed. Too often people are keen to talk down Haverfordwest, but these young people are certainly bucking the trend. Ardderchog pawb!”

Youth project

Heidi Lewis from County Sports remarked: “The project is really beneficial for the town and I love how inclusive it is. It is great to see the young people taking ownership and it has equipped the participants with valuable skills in planning, design, teamwork, and community engagement. It is inspiring”

One participant said “my friends and I got to take part in the workshop because we go to The Edge Youth Centre, the centre is really important to us and I really enjoyed being able to take part. I’ve shown it to all my family!”

The group would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all the local independent businesses and community members who supported the project through donations and collaborative efforts. Their contributions have helped turn a vision into a meaningful and lasting piece of community art.

Young People: Carly Sharief, Ayden Jones, Isaac Roach, Ffion Price, Lateesha Boyd, Youth Worker Ell Lewis with Lloyd Roberts.

Rhys Mwyn to present top Welsh acts at Llangollen International Eisteddfod

BBC RADIO CYMRU presenter and Welsh music pioneer Rhys Mwyn will host a special showcase of three standout Welsh artists at this year’s llangollen International Eisteddfod.

The outdoor event, “Rhys Mwyn yn Cyflwyno / Rhys Mwyn Presents”, takes place on Thursday 10 July from 4:30pm to 7:00pm and leads into the evening’s headline concert by BRIT Award-winning, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter KT Tunstall. Tunstall will perform her iconic debut album Eye to the Telescope in full with orchestral backing for the first time.

Rhys Mwyn will introduce performances by Pedair, Mared and Buddug – three trailblazing artists at the forefront of modern Welsh music.

Pedair is a supergroup formed by four of Wales’ most acclaimed folk artists, blending traditional roots with contemporary flair. Mared brings powerful vocals and poetic songwriting inspired by Welsh landscapes and culture, while Buddug offers a bold fusion of folk, pop and electronica, redefining the possibilities of Welshlanguage music.

Rhys Mwyn said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to present such incredible Welsh talent at this year’s Eisteddfod. Pedair, Mared and Buddug are pushing creative boundaries and bringing new energy to the Welsh music scene. It’s an honour to be part of this landmark festival, which has always stood as a beacon of cultural celebration. I can’t

wait to showcase these exceptional artists on what’s expected to be one of the festival’s biggest days.”

Morgan Thomas, trustee of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, added: “We’re delighted to partner with Rhys Mwyn and BBC Radio Cymru for this unique event. Rhys’s passion for Welsh music and commitment to nurturing talent is invaluable. This collaboration broadens our cultural offering and connects us to new audiences locally and internationally.”

The bilingual event celebrates Welsh culture, language and musical innovation. Entry is just £5, with free admission for those holding tickets to the KT Tunstall concert. Food and drink will be available on-site, making it the perfect pre-show experience.

Event details

What: Rhys Mwyn Presents – Pedair, Mared, Buddug

When: Thursday 10 July, 4:30pm–7:00pm

Where: Llangollen International Eisteddfod site

Tickets: £5 / Free with KT Tunstall concert ticket

Website: www.llangollen.net

Supported by BBC Radio Cymru, the Arts Council of Wales and Visit Wales, this promises to be an unforgettable celebration of contemporary Welsh music in the heart of one of the country’s most cherished festivals.

Eisteddfod Proclamation Parade will bring colour and celebration to Narberth

A MAJOR cultural celebration will take place in Narberth this Saturday (17 May) as the town hosts the official Proclamation Ceremony for the 2026 National Eisteddfod, which is set to take place in West Wales.

The day begins with a colourful procession featuring local schools, community groups, associations, and members of Gorsedd Cymru. The procession will depart from the car park behind Queen’s Hall at 10:00am, making its way through the town before arriving at Townsmoor for the main ceremony shortly before 11:00am.

Participants in the procession are asked to arrive at the Queen’s Hall by 9:45am to be placed in order. Parking will be available at Narberth Primary School.

Organisers are encouraging both large and small groups to take part, with a warm croeso extended to all.

Last year’s Proclamation Ceremony in Wrexham saw more than 400 people taking part. Community groups are also being invited to create and carry banners to reflect the inclusive, vibrant spirit of the Eisteddfod.

The Proclamation Ceremony, led by the Archdruid, will include the formal presentation of the 2026 List

of Competitions by the Chair of the local executive committee. Once presented, the list will be made public and available to purchase at the event and in shops across Wales.

As part of the tradition, local children will perform a dance inspired by the gathering of wildflowers from the fields and meadows, adding a colourful flourish to the proceedings.

Gorsedd Cymru ceremonies are a central feature of the Eisteddfod, which is widely regarded as one of the most welcoming and inclusive celebrations of Welsh language and culture. This Saturday’s event marks the official welcome of the National

Eisteddfod to the area—and the area to the Eisteddfod.

Those wishing to take part in the procession or celebration are encouraged to get in touch with the Eisteddfod team in advance. Community organisations across West Wales can also request a visit from Eisteddfod staff to learn more about how they can get involved in the build-up to the 2026 event. For more information, contact Lowri at: lowri@eisteddfod.cymru.

Events in Narberth will conclude in time for people to travel on to Eisteddfod Llandudoch, which also takes place on Saturday (17 May), ensuring a full day of cultural celebration for communities across the region.

To register for the Narberth procession, visit: www.eisteddfod.wales/ festival/2026/2026-eisteddfodproclamation

Gorymdaith y Cyhoeddi Proclamation Procession

Dewch yn llu gyda’ch baneri lliwgar a lleisiau canu gorau i ddathlu dyfodiad yr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol i ardal y Garreg Las rhwng 1-8 Awst 2026.

Come and join us with your colourful banners and best singing voices to celebrate the arrival of the National Eisteddfod in the Garreg Las area between 1-8 August 2026.

Rydyn ni’n eich gwahodd chi i’n

PRYD | WHEN? Dydd Sadwrn Saturday 17 Mai | May 2025

BLE | WHERE? Arberth

AMSER | TIME 10:00

Gorymdaith gymunedol Cyhoeddi lliwgar a chynnes. O’r ifanc i’r ifanc eu hysbryd, mae croeso i bawb i ymuno â ni wrth i ni gerdded a dathlu gyda’n gilydd.

Ar ôl i’r orymdaith orffen, beth am barhau gyda’r hwyl trwy fynd draw i gefnogi Eisteddfod Llandudoch?

We’re inviting you to a colourful and warm Proclamation community Procession. From the young to the young at heart, everyone is welcome to join as we walk and celebrate together.

After the procession finishing, why not continue the fun by heading over to support the Llandudoch Eisteddfod?

www.eisteddfod.cymru

Welcome to Wrexham: Season 4

The Emmy-winning docuseries Welcome to Wrexham returns for its fourth season on Friday, May 16, 2025, streaming exclusively on Disney+ in the UK. This season chronicles Wrexham AFC’s remarkable 2024–25 campaign, during which the club achieved an unprecedented third consecutive promotion, ascending from League One to the EFL Championship—a feat never before accomplished in English football history .

A Season of Triumphs and Transitions

Under the leadership of manager Phil Parkinson, who celebrated his 1,000th managerial game in January 2025, Wrexham secured a second-place finish in League One with 92 points. Parkinson’s strategic acumen earned him the League One Manager of the Month award

twice during the season . Defender Max Cleworth emerged as a standout player, scoring Wrexham’s first League One goal in 19 years and earning a spot in the League One Team of the Year alongside teammate Ryan Barnett . Conversely, fan-favorite striker Paul Mullin faced challenges, including a season-starting injury and a subsequent dip in form, resulting in limited appearances and only five goals scored .

Beyond the Pitch Season 4 continues to delve into the personal stories of players, staff, and the Wrexham community, highlighting the emotional and cultural impact of the club’s ascent. The series also explores the evolving dynamics within the team as new talent emerges and long-

standing players face uncertain futures.

How to Watch

UK viewers can stream Welcome to Wrexham Season 4 on Disney+ starting May 16, 2025, with new episodes released weekly following the initial two-episode premiere . The first three seasons are also available for streaming on Disney+.

For Sky customers, a special promotion offers free access to the series directly through the Sky TV home screen, eliminating the need for a separate Disney+ subscription

As Wrexham AFC prepares for its return to the Championship, Season 4 of Welcome to Wrexham promises an intimate look at a club and community experiencing a historic transformation

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

As the curtain draws on one of the most iconic action franchises in cinematic history, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning does more than just promise spectacle—it delivers a full-throttle emotional and physical crescendo worthy of Ethan Hunt’s swan song

Tom Cruise returns with undiminished intensity as IMF agent Hunt, a role he has inhabited for nearly three decades. With the stakes higher than ever and the globe-trotting action more relentless, The Final Reckoning is exactly what fans hoped for: a masterclass in tension, athleticism, and espionage drama that stays true to its roots while daring to go bigger than ever before.

The film, directed once again by Christopher McQuarrie, is part-two of the epic arc that began with Dead Reckoning, and it wastes no time plunging

us back into chaos. From the icy fjords of Norway to the dustchoked backstreets of Morocco, Hunt and his loyal team—Ving Rhames’ Luther Stickell, Simon Pegg’s ever-charming Benji Dunn, and Rebecca Ferguson’s formidable Ilsa Faust—race to prevent a catastrophic global meltdown engineered by a faceless adversary. At the heart of it lies a deadly AI force, both timely and chillingly plausible.

What sets The Final Reckoning apart isn’t just the scale of its set pieces—though the now-legendary Cruise stunts continue to astonish—it’s the emotional weight behind every decision. This time, Hunt’s unwavering commitment to saving lives comes at personal cost, and Cruise portrays this with a gravitas and vulnerability that elevates the film beyond standard action fare.

McQuarrie’s direction is sharp, with crisp pacing and

slick editing that makes even the densest plot threads easy to follow. Lorne Balfe’s thunderous score underscores the pulsepounding intensity, while cinematographer Fraser Taggart captures both the grandeur of the landscapes and the claustrophobic tension of handto-hand combat.

Yet, for all its adrenaline and tech-laden thrills, The Final Reckoning feels like a farewell letter to loyalty, sacrifice, and the human spirit in the age of the machine. It’s not just a movie about stunts and spy games— it’s about one man refusing to lose his soul in a world that increasingly demands it.

Whether this truly marks the end of Mission: Impossible remains to be seen—Hollywood never likes to close a profitable door—but as a finale, it’s as satisfying and explosive as any fan could hope for. If this is goodbye, it’s a glorious one.

Tech and Taff

ZUCK’S IMAGINARY FRIENDS

AI, Mark Zuckerberg assures us, will save us from ourselves. The Meta boss, still sounding like an animatronic intern who wandered out of the IT cupboard in 2004, has been on a charm offensive lately to promote a future where your best mate isn’t flesh and blood—but code.

According to Zuck, we’re facing a “loneliness epidemic”, and the answer isn’t more community centres or time spent with your nan. No, it’s friendship with “a system that knows you well”, just like the algorithm that recommends 19 reels of a dog skateboarding in a tutu because you accidentally liked one video of a pug once.

Now, I don’t want to be mean— but taking friendship advice from Zuckerberg feels like learning romance from a turnip. Or ethics from a conman. If your social life looks like a spreadsheet and your relationships involve a Terms and Conditions page, you may already be living the dream he’s selling.

At tech events and on a recent podcast, Zuck sketched a future where you’re scrolling your feed and stumble upon something that looks like a video—but you can talk to it. And it talks back. Just like your cousin Gethin, except the AI won’t borrow your drill and return it broken. The trouble is, Zuck wants us to believe that this kind of interaction is

not just like intimacy—it is intimacy. Which is bonkers.

Genuine human friendship isn’t built by an algorithm. Your best mate can surprise you, challenge you, annoy you, make you laugh till you snort lager through your nose—and, crucially, they exist. They’re sentient. You can drag them to karaoke and hear them absolutely butcher Bonnie Tyler.

Your AI pal, meanwhile, exists solely to keep you on the app and feed your data into the monetisation machine. The relationship isn’t real because the other party doesn’t actually exist. No soul. No spark. No slightly awkward hug goodbye.

Zuckerberg says that if it doesn’t feel like intimacy, maybe we need new words to describe what it is. That’s fine. I suggest: “syntimacy” –the synthetic feeling of being listened to by something whose primary aim is to harvest your preferences and sell you hair dye and scented candles.

And there’s danger here. Because if we tell people—especially the lonely, the isolated, the vulnerable— that this hollow mimicry is enough, they may stop looking for the real thing. AI might not make your life richer—it just makes your data profile more valuable.

So, by all means chat with your chatbot. Just remember: it’s not your friend. It’s your mirror. And it’s staring back at you with dollar signs in its eyes.

Full of magic

and menace: The Royal Opera’s Die Walküre comes to the Torch

A BRAND-NEW production of Wagner’s Die Walküre, presented by The Royal Opera and Ballet, will be screened live at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, this May as part of the venue’s acclaimed cinema season.

Directed by visionary opera director Barrie Kosky and conducted by Sir Antonio Pappano, this dark and emotionally charged staging forms the second chapter of Wagner’s epic Ring Cycle, following Das Rheingold which premiered in 2023.

Sung in German with English subtitles, Die Walküre immerses audiences in a mythological world of gods and mortals, forbidden love, and tragic destiny. On a stormy night, two strangers are drawn together by fate, igniting a love so powerful it could destroy worlds. Meanwhile, in the realm of the gods, Wotan (Christopher Maltman) faces off against his defiant daughter, Brünnhilde (Elisabet Strid), in a struggle that threatens to tear apart the heavens.

The production promises to be

a visual spectacle, with haunting set designs by Rufus Didwiszus, evocative costumes by Victoria Behr, and atmospheric lighting from Alessandro Carletti.

Writing for The Guardian, critic Erica Jeal praised the production’s bold staging: “Victoria Behr’s costumes suggest a non-specific here and now, although Siegmund’s blue top and yellow hoodie hint at Ukraine. Rufus Didwiszus’s sets are dark and bleak… the feral Valkyries collect charred corpses which disintegrate into ash. Finally, every Walküre needs a good Magic Fire at the end – and this one doesn’t disappoint.” The production was awarded four stars.

The live screening of Die Walküre takes place at 2:00pm on Sunday 18 May at the Torch Theatre. Tickets are priced at £20 (£18 concessions) and £9 for under 26s.

For more information or to book, visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate

RIGHT! Strap in, grab your nunchucks, and prepare for a metaphysical flurry of mutant mayhem, because Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate isn’t just a game—it’s a transcendental journey through the pixelated sewers of your subconscious, lovingly gift-wrapped in nostalgia and chaos by the techno-sorcerers at Super Evil Megacorp. yes, that’s actually their name.

Now imagine, if you will, the sacred quartet—Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo—not just as amphibious martial artists, but as avatars of archetypal energy flung into a roguelike cosmos where every corridor is different, every enemy encounter a chaotic dance of destiny. You’re not just fighting Foot Clan ninjas here— you’re wrestling with fate itself, my dear.

Each time you press “start,” you’re embarking on a psychedelic labyrinth, one

procedurally generated to keep you locked in the eternal now. New layouts! New loot! New existential dilemmas! And each Turtle brings a different flavour of violence—Leonardo with his meditative swordplay, Raph with his existential rage, Mikey the chaotic jester, and Donatello, the techno-mystic with a stick. Choose your fighter, choose your truth.

Combat? Oh, it’s tighter than a conspiracy theory on a Reddit thread. Dodge, parry, unleash elemental powers like a reptilian shaman in Times Square. You’re flinging fire, ice, and probably karma at waves of enemy goons and biomechanical beasties.

It’s twitchy, it’s tactical, it’s transcendence through violence. And when you throw in three mates for co-op? It’s like a rave in a dojo—utterly beautiful bedlam. Visually, it’s got that clean, comic-book flair—vivid, respectful, not too showy, like a ninja bowing after a roundhouse

kick. And the soundtrack? A thumping, adrenalised symphony that fuels your path to reptilian enlightenment.

But alas, even in a sewer utopia, there are cracks. Enemy variety, occasionally a bit samey. Some technical hiccups—frame rate dips and unexpected digital seizures, especially on the Switch. And yes, where is the iconic theme song? We want our “heroes in a half-shell” chorus blasting from the heavens!

Yet despite its flaws, Splintered Fate is a triumphant cocktail of the sacred and the silly. It respects the mythos of our green-skinned gladiators while reinventing the wheel with roguelike bravado. It’s nostalgia not as a prison, but as a portal.

Final Verdict: A kaleidoscopic brawler of mutant philosophy and frenetic fun. If you’re a fan of the Turtles, of chaos, or of smashing things in the name of enlightenment—this one’s a proper shell-shocker.

HOROSCOPES

in store for you. In the meantime, grant an audience to someone who’s asked to speak with you in private.

CANCER

Invitations aren’t hard for you to come by, and it’s not too hard to talk you into accepting them. The most attractive offer likely arrives via someone who wants to thank you for something sweet that you’ve never allowed yourself to be properly rewarded for. This time, don’t refuse the gesture! Everyone deserves their time in the spotlight when it’s earned, and you’ve certainly earned it this time.

LEO

“Entertainer” is your middle name, and you really feel it today. You can create an audience out of just about anything too. There will be plenty of opportunities to strut your stuff over the next couple of days, and you should jump on all of them. You don’t need an actual stage to perform. Try a dinner table, an office staff meeting, or in your own home. No matter where you are, give your fans what they came for.

VIRGO

Deep friendships and long-distance travel are on your agenda, and you can combine the two if you get creative. Whether you end up traveling to see a friend, road-tripping with a friend, or receiving a visit from a long-lost loved one, it should be a time to remember. Keep your eyes and your mind wide open. Far-off places and people offer the perfect opportunity to stretch, grow, and expand those horizons.

LIBRA

A sweet, frivolous invitation could arrive today, one that involves nothing but fun. After the past week, you’re unlikely to refuse or even think about refusing. You may need to talk your current sweetie into joining you, but you should be able to entice them with either a romantic dinner or an espresso at that little out-of-the-way cafe. You’ve got what it takes to have the best of both worlds.

SCORPIO

You don’t mind at all when someone else steps on your lines or tries to steal credit from you. It’s like they don’t understand that making things happen is more important than simple recognition. No one loves operating from behind the scenes as much as you do, being in charge of the whole production without hogging the spotlight. Bring something awesome to life and forget about what history has to say.

SAGITTARIUS

Recent events that you’re somewhat less than pleased about might make it tempting to just hop in the car, bus, or plane, basically to go anywhere but here. That’s not really your style, though. You’re used to facing life head on, and there’s simply no reason for you to do anything differently now. Show up as expected with a grin and a wise comment.

CAPRICORN

As is so often the case, you’ve got something to show the world. This time, the lesson involves the virtue of subtlety at a time when it’s far easier for us all to just give in and make a show of things. Strutting your stuff the same way the rest of the planet’s population is strutting theirs may be the easy thing to do, but that just doesn’t tempt you. On the other hand, you prefer to go your own way.

AQUARIUS

You’ve already paid your dues, and nobody can argue with that. Your karmic account should now be firmly in the black, so it’s definitely time for some much-deserved

PISCES

You

wITH EDDIE THE gAME gURU

Badger and the mechanics of meaning

ANIMALS aren’t cruel. They’re animals. Foxes - and don’t get Badger started about foxes - are vermin. But they are not cruel vermin. To a fox, ripping chickens to bits or chewing off the heads of lambs isn’t cruel. It’s part of being a fox. It’s a fox’s nature to be a bloodthirsty and indiscriminate killer, just like it’s a cat’s.

You cannot impose human emotions and ideals on animals. Imagine, for a moment, if lions could talk. Humans would have no common vocabulary with them, no shared concepts and could not understand what they were saying. Mr Tufty Bunny and Mrs Growly Lion are not human. Pretending they are is as pathetic a fallacy as ascribing emotions to weather.

Humans are united by their use of language and, amongst other things, divided by linguistic differences.

It’s the same with cultural concepts. When politicians claim that “there is more that unites us than divides us,” they miss a fundamental point about human nature. Humans’ natures and worldviews are defined by who they are, where they are from, and the environments and conditions in which they mature.

In Japan, a strong tradition of restorative justice is deeply rooted in the Country’s culture. In the early years of this century, the Blair government attempted to introduce a similar process in the United Kingdom. It was a risible failure. The cultural factors that make restorative justice effective in some Japanese criminal prosecutions are absent in British culture. The British do not view the world in the same way as the Japanese. Our background, history, and other cultural factors divide us as much as our languages.

Badger expresses no view on the superiority of one over the other, but, as a Welsh badger, he is intrinsically biased towards favouring the known and familiar.

That said, he celebrates differences as part of life’s warp and weft.

For just a few seconds, imagine a homogenised human race, all crafted in the image of Nigel Farage. That’s at least as possible as “more desirable” forms of equality. The idea of a world of Nigels literally reduces the argument about equality to the absurd. However, it is a deliberate exaggeration to make a serious point.

Some utopian idealists imagine that equality is a desirable end in itself. Badger disagrees.

One of the reasons that real equality

is unobtainable is that, pushed to its logical ends, there is no genius, no hope of a conceptual breakthrough to higher knowledge or greater art. Equality doesn’t mean billions of Einsteins, Shakespeares, or Mozarts. More probably, it would lead to billions of dullards. Some of whom may well be called Nigel.

Difference drives us. Differences make us human. Differences are a good thing.

One of the ways humans define themselves and others is through the use of labels. Labels matter a great deal. You can accept that proposition even while acknowledging that arguments about labels are often a pointless distraction.

We use labels to understand reality and chart our course through it, both individually and collectively. If you think labels don’t matter, tear them off all of your cleaning supplies, tins of pilchards, insecticides, prescription medicines, etc. Eventually, you’ll change your mind, or die in the pursuit of making a point.

At the same time, if you invest too much significance in labels, they end up doing your thinking for you. The words become separated from the thing. Reality becomes fodder for semantic games.

Suppose you wanted a working definition of what has gone wrong with politics in Western democracies since the end of the Cold War. In that case, you’d be going some to ignore how labels have defined our politics for the last thirty-odd years. It’s impossible to ignore

how the misuse and abuse of labels has infantilised politics, politicians, and how the public perceives both.

The labels “left,” “right,” “fascist,” and “socialist” are so debased that they are functionally redundant. The use of intensifiers and modifiers in front of the terms “left” and “right”—extreme left, hard right—is similarly otiose. Let’s consider a relevant recent example: Keir Starmer. From one deluded perspective, he leads an extreme left-wing government. From another, similarly bonkers perspective, he leads an extreme right-wing one. Careless use of mutually exclusive terms renders labels meaningless.

In truth, the current government - for all its multitudinous faults - is not extreme in any valid sense of that word’s meaning. It’s much like every government since 1990: which is to say, small ‘c’ conservative and capital ‘U’ unimaginative.

There are those on the fringes of political discourse who view this as evidence of a “uniparty” system that needs a shake-up to restore genuine choice between differing ideologies. Those who say that would have a point if they could agree on what those differing ideologies would or should be, or even present a coherent set of beliefs of their own.

The trends that matter in politics tend towards greater nationalism and increased nativism. Those terms are not interchangeable.

Nationalism is not a consistent

ideology. One hundred ninety-three nation-states are members of the UN, and several other states also claim (sometimes disputed) sovereignty. Against that fact, “nationalism” is more or less meaningless as an ideology.

Nativism is more particular, but even that is a pick-and-mix in which different elements combine and recombine to create unique compounds.

Secularist nativism is economic. It views the “non-native” as detrimental to the economic potential of the “natives.” It relies on a romanticised and supposedly shared idea of the past, the sort enshrined in the once-popular “histories” of England written by Sir Arthur Bryant and Sir Winston Churchill. It’s best expressed as the idea that “Once we were great and depended only on ourselves. To return to greatness, we must be once again selfreliant.”

Non-secular nativism looks to supposedly shared culture and religion. It relies more expressly on shared faith and the idea that ‘national character’ is defined and definable. It sees the “non-native” as damaging cohesion by introducing incompatible cultures into a formerly united society. It’s best captured in the idea that “There was a time before the Fall, and now there is the point to which we have fallen.”

The world’s great powers are unashamedly nativist, and have been, to a greater or lesser extent, for decades: China, Russia, and, among rising economic powers, India, are strongly nativist in impulse. The USA has always pursued its economic self-interest and has lately tacked towards a more explicit, but not novel, “America First” approach.

The rise of nationalism and nativism spells the end of globalism and internationalism. International trade will still exist because it’s essential. International diplomacy will still take place because it must. However, the cosy (and laughable) high-minded consensus that we’re all working for the common good that followed the end of the Cold War in Europe is gone.

Human beings thrive on difference. Attempts to impose uniform frameworks, whether moral (as with animals), political (as with equality), or ideological (as with labels or nationalism), are deeply flawed. Misunderstanding or denying differences can lead to miscommunication, ineffective policies, and a loss of innovation. Embracing pluralism, nuance, and the messy diversity of real life is not only more accurate but essential.

Starmer’s strange storm: The PM who besieged himself

BY STEPHEN SEAGULL, MILFORD HAVEN’S SHARPEST BEAK

WELL me feathers are in a flap, readers. I’ve seen some strange political tides in my time squawking down the docks, but this one’s a real riddle wrapped in a conundrum and deep-fried in ambiguity.

There he is — Sir Keir Starmer, our newly minted Prime Minister, perched up in Number 10 with a Commons majority so big you could land a mackerel trawler on it. You’d think the man would be swaggering through

Westminster like a puffed-up pigeon on chip day. But instead, he’s looking like a heron stuck in a shopping trolley — surrounded by space, yet somehow totally jammed in.

Let’s get one thing straight. He’s not under threat — not from the Tories, not from Kemi “who?” Badenoch, not from Reform, the Lib Dems, or the Greens. No one’s rallying the troops to take him down. His Cabinet’s so obedient you could mistake ‘em for Alexa devices. His backbenchers grumble a bit, sure, but it’s more pub mumbling than mutiny.

And yet… the man looks knackered already. Why? That’s the golden gull question.

Labour’s been doing stuff. Some folk are happy (junior doctors and train drivers), some are fuming (pensioners, small businesses), but no one’s entirely sure what it all means. Is there a plan? A vision? Or is it just fiddling with policies like a confused crab poking at a Coke can? Take immigration. Starmer says he wants it down. Okay, but… why? Not because of Farage, apparently (he swears it’s not to fend off that

pint-wielding pub phantom). No, it’s about skills. British workers need opportunities. Social cohesion is at risk. We’re turning into “an island of strangers,” he says.

Right. But instead of painting a hopeful picture — investing in people, bringing communities together — he’s rolled out the foghorn of fear. The white paper lands like a warning siren: shut the borders, activate the benefits claimants, and plug the labour gaps with folks who haven’t been working. Simple as that.

Except, it ain’t. It’s not a plan, it’s a punt.

Shutting the visa taps without a full tank of skilled British workers ready to leap into care homes and NHS wards is like expecting a puffin to pilot a ferry. It’s bonkers. And even if it works slowly (which it will), voters won’t see the difference — just the chaos on the way.

He’s got the means — power, votes, the opposition in tatters — but not the message. The “why” is missing. You can’t run a country on vibes and vague frowns. And when you start copying the language of your enemies (hello Nigel), don’t be surprised if people start mistaking you for ‘em.

The truth is, Starmer’s biggest enemy isn’t the right, the left, or the tabloids. It’s that hollow space behind every policy announcement where a purpose should be. He’s a Prime Minister who got the job by ducking and weaving, not dreaming and daring. That works in opposition. In government? Not so much.

So there he is — not threatened, but embattled. Not under siege, but somehow besieged. Like a seal flopped in a rock pool, wondering why the tide isn’t turning anymore.

Over and out from the dockside, where at least we seagulls know why we nick your chips: because we’re hungry, unapologetic, and very, very clear on our mission.

Till next week, Stephen

Creating a haven for hedgehogs as numbers plummet across the UK

BRITAIN’S favourite spiky garden visitor is under threat – but you can help turn things around.

Once a common sight in back gardens and hedgerows, hedgehog numbers have dropped by a shocking 75 per cent in the last two decades, largely due to habitat loss from housing developments and urban sprawl.

Now, as part of Hedgehog Awareness Week (May 4–10), tradespeople from MyBuilder. com are encouraging people to make simple changes to help hedgehogs survive and thrive. From building bespoke hedgehog houses to creating wildlife corridors between gardens, there’s plenty we can do to give nature a helping hand.

According to a recent survey, one in four Brits have never

seen a hedgehog in the wild – a figure that rises to 40 per cent among 18 to 34-year-olds. Yet, encouragingly, nearly threequarters of people say they’d be happy to help hedgehogs in their gardens.

James Lewis, gardening expert at MyBuilder, said: “Even the smallest outdoor space can support hedgehogs. Just cutting a hole in a fence to allow access can make a big difference. And building a simple shelter from leftover timber provides a safe place for hedgehogs to rest and hibernate.”

Sharon Jacobs, senior nurse at Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, added: “Gardens are vital for hedgehogs. But we urge gardeners to check for wildlife before using mowers, strimmers or hedgecutters — we see far too many injuries caused by garden

equipment each year.”

Six ways to make your garden hedgehog-friendly this spring:

• Leave wild patches: Let a corner of your garden grow wild. Nettles and dense foliage provide food and shelter. A ‘meadow edge’ of wildflowers also looks beautiful.

• Ditch the slug pellets: These are toxic to hedgehogs. Use natural alternatives like beer traps or coffee grounds instead.

• Check before mowing: Especially during spring and summer, hedgehogs may be sleeping in long grass. Always check before mowing or strimming.

• Build a hedgehog house: A small timber shelter with a 13cm x 13cm entrance

provides a safe retreat. Don’t paint the inside or leave food in it.

• Cover drains: Open drains are death traps for hedgehogs. Use covers or secure bags to prevent accidents.

• Create access routes: Hedgehogs roam 1-2km each night. Cutting a small hole in your fence or swapping it for a hedge helps them get around.

If you live in a new-build home, check your fencing –modern developments often use solid boundaries that are impassable for wildlife. Removing or modifying a panel can help.

To find out more, visit: www.mybuilder.com/blog/ help-for-hedgehogs

Every child in Wales to be given the opportunity to speak Welsh

THE SENEDD has passed landmark legislation to ensure that every child in Wales has the opportunity to confidently speak Welsh, regardless of their background or the language medium of the school they attend.

The Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Bill, passed today, aims to close the gap in Welsh-speaking ability among pupils from different schools. It supports the Welsh Government’s goal of reaching one million Welsh speakers by 2050 by strengthening the role of the Welsh language within education.

The Bill’s overarching ambition is that all pupils attending maintained schools in Wales will be able to use Welsh independently by the time they leave school.

Welsh Language Secretary, Mark Drakeford, said: “The Welsh language belongs to us all. This Bill gives children and young people a greater opportunity to become confident Welsh speakers and brings us closer to our national goal of one million speakers.

“As a Senedd, we have passed an important and farreaching Bill that will empower every child to use the Welsh language with confidence. I look forward to continued collaboration as we implement it.”

The legislation introduces three Welsh language categories for maintained schools, each with a minimum required level of Welsh language education. It also mandates action to expand access to intensive Welsh language immersion education across Wales, supporting learners of all ages — including those who may not currently use Welsh in everyday life.

Education Secretary, Lynne Neagle, said: “Our approach to late language immersion is unique. This Bill builds on the excellent work already happening across Wales and ensures that every child has the opportunity to learn Welsh, use it, and benefit from it.”

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR IMPLEMENTATION

To support the ambitions of the Bill, the Welsh Government is:

• Continuing grant schemes to increase the number of Welshspeaking teachers and teaching assistants.

• Offering free Welsh lessons to all school staff.

Additional initiatives include:

• Transition Scheme: Supports Welsh speakers

in primary schools or those teaching outside Wales to become secondary teachers in Welsh-medium schools.

• Iaith Athrawon Yfory Incentive Scheme: Offers £5,000 incentives to students training to teach through the medium of Welsh or to teach Welsh as a subject.

• Retention Bursary: Provides a £5,000 bursary to secondary teachers who have taught Welsh or through Welsh for three years since 2020 and remain in post during their fourth year.

• Expanding alternative routes into teaching, including the Open University’s programme and new accredited models like the Cardiff Metropolitan University scheme.

• A wide range of free Welsh language training courses for practitioners, including the sabbatical scheme, provided by the National Centre for Learning Welsh.

Key provisions of the Bill:

• Provides a statutory foundation for the 2050 target of one million Welsh speakers.

• Requires targets to be set for Welsh language education and broader usage,

including in workplaces and social settings.

• Establishes a standard method to describe Welsh language ability across all age groups, based on international frameworks (CEFR).

• Defines three school language categories, with minimum Welsh language education requirements:

• Primary Language – Welsh (80% of curriculum)

• Bilingual (50%)

• Primary Language –English, partial Welsh (10%)

• Sets language learning goals for each school category.

• Requires local authorities to take steps to provide intensive Welsh language immersion education for children aged 7 and over wishing to attend a Welshmedium or bilingual school.

• Introduces a national system for Welsh education planning, covering national, local, and school levels.

• Establishes a National Welsh Language Learning Institute, tasked with:

• Supporting Welsh language learning across all age groups.

• Ensuring the education workforce can learn Welsh and improve their Welsh skills.

West Wales’ produce showcased in the heart of Westminster

Carmarthenshire recently took centre stage in Westminster at a special celebration organised in collaboration between the Farmers’ Union of Wales and Caerfyrddin Member of Parliament, Ann Davies.

‘Carmarthenshire Day’ was held at the historic Westminster Hall, bringing together a wealth of parliamentarians, peers and producers in a vibrant showcase of rural Welsh excellence.

As part of the celebrations, nine celebrated producers from across the length and breadth of Carmarthenshire were present including Bremenda Isaf, Tregroes Waffles, Brecon Carreg, Castell Howell, Coaltown Coffee, Mêl Gwenyn Gruffydd, Caws Cenarth, Carmarthen Ham and The Welsh Wool Shop. Each had the opportunity to engage with MPs, Lords and guests, offering a powerful insight into the diversity and quality of Carmarthenshire’s food, drink and craft sectors.

The event was officially opened by Dame Nia Griffith MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the UK Government’s Wales Office, herself the Member of Parliament for the Llanelli constituency in Carmarthenshire.

The event drew a wide range of cross-party politicians and peers

from across the UK, including Ruth Jones MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee, Alistair Carmichael MP, Chair of Westminster’s Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Committee and DEFRA Shadow Secretary of State, Victoria Atkins MP. The politicians were also joined by over 35 Farmers’ Union of Wales members and supporters from Carmarthenshire, who made the journey along the M4 to celebrate the special day.

Commenting following the successful event, Ann Davies MP, who has served as Chair of the Farmers’ Union of Wales Carmarthenshire branch since 2023 said: “Carmarthenshire is a county built on hard work, innovation and community, it was a huge privilege to bring our producers to Westminster and to showcase what makes our part of Wales so special. This event was about more than products –it was about giving rural voices

the platform they deserve and reminding Westminster of the value of regions like ours both economically and culturally.”

The celebration follows similar events previously hosted by the Farmers’ Union of Wales in Westminster, including Montgomeryshire Day in 2023.

The Carmarthenshire Day celebrations were particularly timely for the Farmers’ Union of Wales too, as they celebrate seventy years since the agricultural union was founded in Carmarthenshire in December 1955.

Commenting, FUW President Ian Rickman said: “2025 marks an important year for the Farmers’ Union of Wales, as we celebrate seventy years since the Union was founded in Carmarthenshire.

“Working alongside Ann Davies MP, we were therefore delighted to support this successful event, bringing a taste of West Wales to the heart of Westminster.

“It was so heartening to see the event so well-attended by politicians and peers providing them not only with an opportunity to sample outstanding produce we boast in Wales, but also a valuable lobbying opportunity for FUW to highlight the range of challenges and changes facing Welsh farmers.”

Welsh farming’s challenges discussed with Welsh Conservatives Shadow Cabinet Secretary

Earlier this week, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) met with Welsh Conservatives Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Education and Rural Affairs,

Samuel Kurtz MS to discuss the changes and challenges facing Welsh agriculture.

The meeting followed the announcement earlier this month

that the Carmarthen West & South Pembrokeshire Senedd Member, had been reappointed as the party’s Rural Affairs spokesperson, having previously held the portfolio between 2021 and 2024.

With a year to go until the Senedd elections, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss a range of issues facing Welsh agriculture, including the continued impact of bovine TB, the implementation of Nitrate Vulnerable Zone regulations, and the future of the Sustainable Farming Scheme, which is due to be announced later this year.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the ongoing concerns over the UK Government’s changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) outlined in the Autumn Budget.

The FUW’s own analysis suggests as many as 48% of Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) recipients in Wales could be affected by the changes,with the union warning the changes could have devastating impact on family farms and food production.

Commenting following the meeting, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: “We welcomed the opportunity to

meet Samuel in the Senedd, and congratulate him on his re-appointment to the Rural Affairs portfolio. Through his farming background, Sam has an in-depth understanding of the sector and the many issues we face, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with him over the coming months.

“At a time when Welsh farmers are facing a perfect storm of changes and challenges, the meeting provided a useful meeting to discuss many of these aspects further - including the NVZs, SFS, and the dark shadow bovine TB continues to cast over the Welsh farming sector.”

Commenting, Samuel Kurtz MS added: “Our farmers are the backbone of our communities. They don’t just produce our food, they support our rural economy, uphold Welsh culture, and care for our countryside. I will always stand up for farmers across Wales and continue to fight for a future in which agriculture can thrive.

“I have been consistent that farming needs a friend, and I will continue to be that friend to farming in Wales.”

Agri Academy gives young farmer confidence and skills to turn dreams into reality

SETTING up and growing a successful new business is something many people will only ever dream about. young farmer Cian Iolen Rhys says that Farming Connect’s Agri Academy Junior Programme gave him the confidence and life-skills to do exactly that – at 17 years old! Together with his friend Owain, Cian has set up a successful sheep-shearing contracting business which now services 17 local farms.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today were it not for the confidence, skills, new friends and supportive networks I made through the Agri Academy and I’m so grateful for that opportunity.”

Cian farms alongside his dad and younger brother at a 150acre Council-owned beef and sheep farm near Bethesda. The second-year Coleg Glynllifon agriculture student combines his college commitments with being an active member of Dyffryn Ogwen YFC, playing rugby, singing and he’s an award-winning competitive ‘blade shearer’. He works parttime for local farmers and has been invited to Somerset and the Scottish Highlands for work experience this spring.

“It takes courage to try out anything new, but I was so

inspired by the farmers and mentors I met through the Agri Academy that my expectations of what I can achieve have soared! And I loved the media training – all brilliant!

“We visited a range of inspirational farm businesses across Wales and had a study tour to Norway which gave me a different perspective on so many different aspects of animal health, business and financial management and the importance of utilising technology.”

Cian says much of what he learned through the Agri Academy is now put into practice at home.

“We have set up a new techno strip grazing system, using electric fences to move the cattle every two days to make better use of our land, and we’ve also invested in mineral boluses which have improved the ewes’ condition and fertility percentages.

“The Agri Academy taught me that if you want to be successful, you need to work hard, be open to new ideas and learn from others!

“Working early mornings, late evenings, weekends and all through college holidays are the norm,” says Cian, but he clearly wouldn’t have it any other way, because as he says,

the personal development support and training provided through Farming Connect are helping him achieve his goals and they’ve certainly broadened his outlook on his future career pathway!

Having been set a great example by his dad who has a full-time job away from the farm, Cian is ambitious, focused and clearly hard-working –all attributes recognised by Lantra Cymru when he recently received his Young Learner of the Year ‘joint runner up’ award in the Under 20s category.

Cian says that his lifelong goal is ‘to be happy and continue enjoying what I do’. He’s set his sights on university or an apprenticeship and hopes to fulfil his boyhood dream of becoming a livestock auctioneer alongside hands-on farming, competitive ‘blade shearing’ and running his own business. Sounds a lot, but when you consider what he’s achieved so far, the future looks bright for this ambitious young farmer.

The application window for the Agri Academy Junior Programme is open until 20 May.

“Don’t hesitate, get your application in – it’s the stepping stone young farmers need!” says Cian

In the wake of much anticipation and uncertainty, last week the US and UK reached an initial agreement on trade and tariffs. However, despite President Trump’s characterisation of the announcement as a “major trade deal” on social media, its significance and scope remains debatable, with the agricultural sector still grappling with the potential ramifications.

Beyond tariff reductions or removals on UK exports such as cars, steel, and aluminum, agriculture was a key component of the deal. The US secured enhanced access to the UK agricultural market, notably gaining tarifffree quotas for 13,000 tonnes of US beef and for ethanol. In return, the UK received an equivalent beef quota at a reduced tariff rate, aligning it with other nations.

Throughout these trade talks, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) repeatedly stressed that Welsh agriculture must not become collateral damage in the UK Government’s pursuit of short-term trade concessions with the US. Crucially, the FUW emphasised the importance of preventing Welsh farmers from having to compete with cheap, sub-standard US imports, such as chlorinated chicken and hormone-injected beef.

The UK Government has been adamant in its assurance that this agreement will not compromise food, environmental, or animal welfare standards, which we appreciate. Such assurances are in keeping with the stated intention of the UK Government to ‘smooth’ the current trade deal in place with the EU, and whilst we acknowledge the opportunities this deal provides for Welsh farmers

in opening a potential new market for our worldleading produce, the size differential between our European markets and limited opening for beef exports to the US should not be ignored.

However, much apprehension remains in the industry regarding the agreement and its potential impact on Welsh farmers. While assurances regarding food safety (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) standards are welcome, as the FUW has highlighted on several occasions, a significant distinction exists between food safety and food production standards. Just because food is deemed safe to eat, does not mean it has been produced to the equivalent of our high production standards - and ultimately any deviation risks undermining Welsh farmers and the high production standards they maintain.

The FUW therefore emphasised that comprehensive and unambiguous countryof-origin labeling is vital to ensure the UK public can make fully informed purchasing decisions. Furthermore, meticulous scrutiny and policing of imports is non-negotiable in ensuring they meet the correct standards. A weakening in standards would constitute a betrayal of Welsh farmers, the food sector, and potentially undermine any future trading relationship with the EU.

Over recent years, Welsh farmers have too often borne the brunt of trade deals forged with countries that prioritise different food production standards. These have undermined UK food production, whilst delivering little return in regard to new markets or tangible opportunities. We will therefore withhold our final view of this deal as the dust continues to settle on this latest agreement.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 once again voted Best EV Executive Car at the Great British Fleet Awards

The multiple awardwinning Hyundai IONIQ 6 has continued its long run of success by being named Best EV Executive Car at the Great British Fleet Awards for the second consecutive year.

The annual awards are organised by the UK’s leading fleet title, Fleet World, and recognise the finest fleet-focused vehicles on the market, as well as cutting-edge developments in the industry. As in recent years, in 2025 there has been a particular focus on honouring products and services that support operators running safer, greener and more cost-effective fleets.

The winners were announced at a special ceremony in Milton Keynes, with Fleet World’s team of expert judges praising the IONIQ 6 for its sophisticated tech and distinctive design.

John Challen, Editor of Fleet World, said: “Daring to be different, Hyundai was prepared to take a chance with the IONIQ 6, and drivers gave a positive response. Ultra-fast charging and a high-tech interior are just two of the car’s many attributes, alongside striking looks that certainly make it stand out.”

Although the award constitutes a repeat of 2024’s recognition, it actually marks the

third year in a row that the IONIQ 6 has been named a winner in the Great British Fleet Awards, having initially collected the Best EV Compact Executive Car in 2023. Other notable successes for the model since launch include being named 2023 World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year, and Best Family Car at the 2024 UK Car of the Year Awards.

Tim White, Head of Fleet,

Hyundai Motor UK, said: “The continued recognition from Fleet World is testament to the IONIQ 6’s enduring appeal to fleet buyers and users who want to embrace electrification in style. It offers a winning blend of sharp design, impeccable quality, strong performance and real-world practicality, which is backed up our five-year, unlimited mileage warranty and a fantastic retail network which delivers genuine peace of mind.”

Customers have a choice of either a rear-wheel-drive powertrain offering 228PS and 350Nm or an all-wheel drive powertrain with 325PS and 605Nm. All models feature the long-range 77.4 kWh battery –allowing for a range of up to 338 miles – with the E-GMP platform’s standard 800v charging system providing 350kW ultra-fast charging. Two generously equipped Premium and Ultimate trim lines are available.

1.2

Fleet favourite: Škoda named Manufacturer of the Year in triple win at the Great British Fleet Awards

Škoda has confirmed its reputation as a leader in the fleet market by driving off with three key titles at the annual Great British Fleet Awards. Not only was the Czech brand named overall Fleet Manufacturer of the year, it also secured additional victories for two of its newest models – the Kodiaq and Superb.

The annual Great British Fleet

Awards recognise brands and vehicles that deliver exceptional value and quality, both for fleet operators and drivers. Over recent years, Škoda has enjoyed a growing share of the fleet market, thanks to its broad range of models, acclaimed value for money, and low running costs.

Having already won a string of Great British Fleet Awards in previous years, Škoda went one better in 2025 by

scooping the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year title for the first time. The judging panel praised the brand’s comprehensive range and attention to detail. Commenting on Škoda’s win, the panel said: “Škoda, quite rightly, receives a lot of praise for its growing portfolio of electric vehicles, but it also deserves recognition for a strong overall line-up.”

The judges also highlighted

Škoda’s ongoing commitment to offering unbeatable value for money, adding: “The range offers something for everyone, with costs that are competitive and specifications that are hugely impressive. The brand’s ‘Simply Clever’ additions just add to the overall appeal and value.”

In addition to winning the overall Manufacturer of the Year title, Škoda also secured two coveted class wins. The new Kodiaq was named Best Fleet Large SUV, while the new Superb was crowned Best Fleet Executive Car of the Year.

Explaining why the Kodiaq took top honours, the judging panel said: “The first-generation Kodiaq was a huge hit with drivers, and the replacement model has carried on the good work. Highlights include a fun-to-drive element, a wide range of powertrain options, and quality materials throughout. Strong RVs add to the appeal of the Czech SUV.”

The panel was equally impressed by the Superb, noting: “Want limousinetype characteristics for a fraction of the cost? There really is just one option. The Superb once again lives up to its name and does so much so well –including offering a choice of hatchback and estate versions, with efficient petrol, hybrid and diesel engines to suit different driver needs.”

The latest awards further cement Škoda’s status as a leader in the fleet sector. Thanks to a raft of new models and updates, the brand boasts one of the newest ranges in the industry –while the recent arrival of the all-electric Elroq SUV is set to further enhance Škoda’s appeal with fleet buyers.

A full database of media assets relating to all Škoda models is available at www.skodamedia.com.

MG HS takes podium place

THE new MG HS has added to its growing list of awards with a key win at the Great British Fleet Awards. The MG HS was judged to be the Best Fleet Medium SUV for 2025.

Judges commended the MG HS for its low and busy-friendly running costs whilst offering drivers with a highquality cabin that combines comfort with practical storage options.

“Generous interior space, numerous storage options and low running costs, the MG HS excels in a lot of key areas for fleets. For drivers, comfort and good quality materials around the cabin are two other major plus points that sees this car triumph over some strong competition. The 75-mile EV only range of the PHEV version is another major plus point for the MG HS,” said John Challen, Editor of Fleet World.

The new MG HS models – available both in Plug-in Hybrid and Petrol models - have performed strongly both with business and private customers. In the first quarter of 2025, the MG HS was the UK’s seventh best-selling vehicle and secured 9,738 registrations.*

Geraint Isaac, Head of Fleet Sales at MG Motor UK commented;

“The MG HS models are proving to

be popular within the Fleet environment. Particularly the PHEV variant with the combination of 75 mile EV range and only 12g/km CO2. This is a very fuel and tax efficient car.”

The new generation of the MG HS range offers customers the best possible overall value in the SUV marketplace. The petrol HS SE 1.5T is available from just £25,995 with the range-topping

HS Trophy PHEV priced from £34,495. And, like all MGs, there is a generous 7-year/80,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty supported by a 160 strong dealer network.

Closure of top-rated Pembrokeshire restaurant sparks row with council

A MUCH-LOVED

Pembrokeshire restaurant

praised by national food critics is being forced to close by the end of the year after its farm tenancy was not renewed— prompting a passionate plea from the family behind it and a blunt response from the local authority.

Paternoster Farm, based

in a converted milking shed near Hundleton, has featured in the Good Food Guide for three years running and was recently described by The Sunday Times as “a rural gem reinventing Welsh dining.” But despite its success and loyal customer base, the restaurant has been told to vacate the site following Pembrokeshire County

Council’s decision not to renew the family’s 10-year tenancy.

The farm and restaurant are run by Michelle Evans, a former solicitor who gave up law to pursue her love of cooking. She built the venture with her family from scratch over the last four years, offering a £58 set seasonal menu based on ingredients sourced from their

farm and the local area.

Michelle says the decision came as a shock. “By the time we were made aware, Paternoster Farm had already been offered to another party,” she said. “There has been no consultation, no negotiation, just a letter telling us to move on. The hospitality industry is tough enough—we’ve poured our heart, soul, time and money into this. Now, just as we’re getting there, it’s being taken away.”

The council has offered the family an alternative tenancy at a larger holding in north Pembrokeshire, but Michelle says it’s not a practical or fair solution. “This isn’t just a business. It’s our home. It’s our children’s childhood. We’ve built something here that’s part of the community—guests book their holidays around dining with us, local businesses benefit from the visitors we bring in. The council talks about economic development, but where’s the support for something that’s clearly working?”

The decision has prompted widespread concern among customers and locals, with Michelle encouraging supporters to write to Pembrokeshire County Council’s County Farm Estates department in protest.

In a statement, Pembrokeshire County Council defended its actions, saying: “Tenancies on our estate are not for life. They are for a fixed term, and tenants are fully aware of that when they sign up. In this case, the tenant has been offered a tenancy at a larger holding.”

But Michelle says that offer does little to reflect the deep roots the family has put down at Paternoster. “This peninsula means a lot to me. We’ve created something special here and it’s been cut short without any meaningful discussion. Our children are devastated. We’re now left to consider whether to fight this or start over somewhere else.”

The restaurant hopes to remain open until autumn 2025, but may close earlier if a new opportunity arises.

Opening the digital front door to the NHS in Wales

PEOPLE across Wales are being encouraged to download the NHS Wales App, as the Welsh Government re-launches the bilingual platform as part of its digital transformation of healthcare services.

Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sarah Murphy, unveiled the updated app at Wales’ first NHS Digital Summit, where she set out a 12-month roadmap for new features aimed at improving access to care and empowering patients.

The app now allows users to view hospital appointments and includes tools to help patients manage their health while waiting for surgery. In the coming months, new features will enable people to track their place on NHS waiting lists and manage treatment appointments directly from their devices.

Ms Murphy said: “Our vision for the NHS Wales App extends far beyond today’s re-launch. In the coming months, people will be able to track

their treatment waiting times and manage hospital appointments all from

their phone or device. This is just the beginning of our digital transformation,

as we work towards creating a digital front door to our NHS and social care services.”

Alongside the updated app, the Welsh Identity Verification Service is being rolled out. This will allow individuals without government-issued photo ID to verify their identity in person at their GP surgery to register for the app. Those with photo ID can continue to register online using the NHS Log-in service.

Addressing the Digital Summit, the Minister called for greater collaboration between NHS Wales, the Welsh Government and Digital Health and Care Wales to ensure the success of the digital transformation.

“This summit is a reset button and an opportunity to reaffirm relationships and to commit to working more collaboratively across the system to provide the best service for the people of Wales,” she said.

Tories criticise Cardiff Airport funding as Qatar Airways talks continue

THE WELSH Conservatives have renewed criticism of the labour Government’s continued public subsidy of Cardiff Airport, following confirmation that talks with Qatar Airways over restoring the flagship Doha route are still ongoing — but remain shrouded in secrecy.

It comes after a Freedom of Information (FOI) request revealed that the Welsh Government, Cardiff Airport and Qatar Airways have been in correspondence about the planned resumption of the long-haul service. However, the Government has refused to release any of the documents, citing commercial confidentiality.

Cardiff Airport’s press office confirmed to The Herald on May 1 that talks with the Qatari airline remain “positive”, but said there was “no update” on a return date.

The FOI response from Welsh Government officials, dated November 2024, confirmed that emails and letters between all parties exist, but the details were withheld under a public interest exemption — prompting questions over transparency and how taxpayer money is being used.

Since the airport was nationalised in 2013, the Labour-led Welsh Government has committed nearly £400 million in support, including a recent £206 million package to support post-pandemic recovery and new routes. Opposition parties say this approach lacks scrutiny.

Commenting, Welsh Conservative Shadow Transport Secretary Sam Rowlands MS said: “Labour’s continued mismanagement of Cardiff Airport has seen them pour hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ money into propping up a failing business.

“Despite repeated calls for

transparency, they’ve refused to provide answers on how this money will be spent or whether better options — such as private sector partnerships — have been properly explored.

“If taxpayer money is being used to entice airlines like Qatar Airways back to Cardiff, the public has a right to know the terms of those deals.”

The Welsh Government has previously argued that public investment is essential to retain international connectivity for Wales and avoid reliance on English airports such as Bristol. Ministers say they aim to make Cardiff Airport self-sustaining in the long term.

But critics say the lack of openness

over strategic negotiations, especially involving foreign carriers, undermines confidence in the airport’s management and public value for money.

The Herald understands that pressure is mounting for an internal review of the FOI decision, as questions remain over whether financial incentives are being offered — and what, if anything, taxpayers can expect in return.

Qatar Airways first launched its Cardiff–Doha route in May 2018, marking a major milestone for the airport. The daily service provided a vital long-haul connection between Wales and the Middle East, linking to over 150 global destinations via Hamad

International Airport. The Herald was present to celebrate the first anniversary of the service in 2019, with photos taken at the airport to mark the occasion. However, the route was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has never resumed.

By contrast, Qatar Airways resumed its Birmingham–Doha service in July 2023 following a three-year pause, with daily flights now operating from the West Midlands. Cardiff remains the only UK route previously served by Qatar Airways that has not returned postpandemic — a fact that continues to fuel concerns about the airport’s recovery strategy and the Welsh Government’s handling of international partnerships.

Celebrating community: The key to good mental health this Mental Health Awareness Week

THIS Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May 2025), the Mental Health Foundation is encouraging people across the UK to recognise and celebrate the power of community in supporting mental health.

The theme for this year’s campaign is #ThisIsMyCommunity, and the Foundation is inviting individuals, groups and organisations to share their own stories—whether it’s through photos, videos, or written reflections—about the communities that help them feel connected, supported and mentally well.

“Community is an essential protective factor for our mental health,” said Jemma Wray, Head of Wales at the Mental Health Foundation. “It gives us belonging and purpose. It helps us cope during tough times. This week, we’re celebrating the diverse, vibrant communities across the country that bring us together.”

WHY COMMUNITY MATTERS

Research shows that people who are socially connected are happier, physically healthier, and live longer. Strong communities help reduce stress and mental health challenges by fostering a sense of safety, meaning, and

mutual support. Communities come in many forms. Whether it’s a neighbourhood group, a faith community, a hobby club, a support group, or even a shared love of Taylor Swift—what matters is the sense of belonging and connection. Being part of a healthy community is not only about what we receive but what we give. Small acts of kindness and appreciation can deepen friendships, reduce loneliness, and boost self-esteem.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED AND CONNECT

To support better mental health through community engagement, the Mental Health Foundation offers a range of practical tips:

• Make it fun: Join a group that matches your interests— whether that’s reading, sport, crafts, music or gaming.

• Get outdoors: Walking groups, community gardening, or just a chat at the park can improve both mood and physical health.

• Look for like-minded people: Find groups that share your values or interests, but also be open to new perspectives.

• Practice kindness: Say hello

to neighbours, thank people, or offer to help—it builds connections and spreads positivity.

• Consider online communities: For those who face barriers to socialising in person, online spaces can offer a valuable sense of connection—just be mindful of toxic or harmful platforms.

• Volunteer: Helping others boosts your own sense of purpose and community.

• Support your local area: Take part in litter picks, local events, or campaigns to protect your environment.

• Welcome new faces: Invite newcomers to local events or simply offer a friendly word.

• Find peer support: Talking to others who’ve been through similar challenges can be powerful and healing.

More tips and downloadable resources are available at: www. mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw

Wear it Green Day –Thursday 15 May

As part of the week’s celebrations, the Foundation is asking people to turn the UK green for mental health. Whether it’s wearing your favourite green outfit, hosting a green-themed

quiz, or baking green treats, Wear It Green Day raises vital funds and awareness to support mental health services— especially for those most at risk. Schools, workplaces and community groups can download a free Wear It Green Day pack at: www.mentalhealth. org.uk/wear-it-green-day

About the campaign

Mental Health Awareness Week has been running for more than 20 years. Organised by the Mental Health Foundation, it aims to break down stigma, share expert advice, and empower people to take action to improve mental health.

Mental health remains the top health concern for UK adults—surpassing even cancer and obesity—according to recent Ipsos research (2024). That’s why the Foundation says this campaign is not just about awareness, but about action.

To join the conversation and celebrate your community, use hashtags #ThisIsMyCommunity and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, and tag @mentalhealth on social media.

For more information, visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw

Strength training gives hope to people with Parkinson’s

PEOPlE living with Parkinson’s in Pembrokeshire are being encouraged to take part in a unique strength training programme designed to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Run by Strength Academy Wales and funded by a Parkinson’s UK Physical Activity Grant, the sessions take place twice a week in Haverfordwest and offer a wide range of exercises specifically tailored to the needs of people with Parkinson’s.

The sessions, led by volunteer director and head coach Simon Roach, include functional strength and conditioning exercises aimed at building leg strength, improving posture and balance, increasing core stability, and enhancing overall mobility. Classes are held every Monday and Friday at 10:30am and are open to people of all fitness levels— no prior weightlifting experience is needed.

Participants in strength and weight training sessions for people with Parkinson’s in Haverfordwest (Pic: Supplied)

But the programme is about more than physical fitness. For many, it’s a chance to connect, build confidence, and find support among others navigating the same condition.

“Out of all the community programmes we deliver, this one is particularly close to my heart,” said Simon Roach. “My father, who was born and raised in Haverfordwest, lived with Parkinson’s. I saw how

strength training helped him maintain his independence for longer. Now, offering this to others in our local community is incredibly meaningful. Our Parkinson’s Strength Group is about more than lifting weights—it’s about lifting each other up.”

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world. In the UK, around 153,000 people are living with it, including approximately 8,300 in Wales. The condition causes a wide range of symptoms, including tremor, pain, and anxiety, and there is currently no cure. However, regular physical activity has been shown to help people manage symptoms and maintain wellbeing.

Dawn McGuinness, Wales Community Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK Cymru, said: “Being active is so important for people with Parkinson’s, as it can make everyday life easier, help manage symptoms, and improve mood. Community-based programmes like this are a lifeline to many.”

The Haverfordwest sessions have been made possible by the Parkinson’s UK Physical Activity Grants scheme, which supports activity providers to deliver inclusive, local programmes for people with Parkinson’s.

Sessions take place at Strength Academy Wales, Pembrokeshire Sports Village, Haverfordwest, SA61 2PY, every Monday and Friday at 10:30am. To sign up for free or find out more, visit: www.strengthacademy. wales/wellbeing

Expert shares link between mental health and financial struggles

A PEMBROKESHIRE money adviser is urging people to talk about money worries this Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12–18), as new data reveals three-quarters of those facing mental health challenges also struggle to manage bills and payments.

Frank Farrer, a money practitioner at Pembrokeshire FRAME, works with people across the county who are struggling with debt, fuel poverty and the rising cost of living. He says financial stress and mental health go hand in hand—and that local, face-to-face support can make all the difference.

“There’s a massive link between money and mental health,” Frank explained. “When you’re financially stressed, you might not sleep. That makes it even harder to think straight, make decisions or even feel confident enough to ask for help.”

He recalled one woman who was so overwhelmed by an Adult Disability Payment form she couldn’t even bring herself to look at it properly. “All she

could do was write her name and address. But when we broke it down together, step-by-step, it became manageable. That’s the kind of support that helps ease anxiety around money.”

Frank is part of the Community Fuel Guidance Team, supported by Wales and West Utilities and operating from Pembrokeshire FRAME. In the last year alone, the team has supported over 2,000 local families.

Liz Clarke, Chair of Pembrokeshire FRAME, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Frank and Sue and the work they’re doing. They bring real empathy and understanding to what can be a very difficult topic. Their support is making a genuine difference to families across the county.”

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is themed around ‘Community’, and Frank believes that’s key to helping people open up.

“Being part of a community means you’re visible, trusted and approachable,” he said. “When we attend local events, we’re not there in

suits with clipboards—we’re there to chat, to listen. We might sit down with someone over a cup of tea and a slice of cake. That informal approach helps people relax and feel safe enough to talk.”

According to the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), 74% of people with a mental health issue struggle to keep up with bills and payments, and 91% avoid

talking about money at all. Frank is a member of the MaPS-backed Money Guiders network, which provides selfdevelopment and training for those offering financial guidance in their communities.

Anyone worried about money can visit MoneyHelper for free, impartial guidance backed by the UK Government.

Senedd Members criticise ‘slow progress’ on Gypsy sites

SENEDD Members criticised a lack of progress on new Gypsy, Roma and Traveller sites, warning people are living in substandard conditions in contravention of their human rights.

John Griffiths raised concerns about the poor condition of councilrun sites in Wales after hearing evidence of disrepair, pollution and rat infestations destroying people’s lives.

The Labour politician, who chairs the Senedd’s housing and local government committee, led a debate on a report following two inquiries into the provision of sites.

Mr Griffiths, who will stand down next year having represented Newport East for 27 years, said it too often seems the needs of Gypsies and Travellers are not prioritised.

“Some described being treated as outcasts and second-class citizens,” he warned. “Nobody should be made to feel this way; we urgently need to see improvement.”

He told the Senedd: “At heart, this is a matter of human rights…. These communities are entitled

to an alternative way of life, aren’t they? In essence, I think a lot of these arguments centre around that: we have to facilitate and accommodate that alternative way of life.”

Conservative Laura Anne Jones was similarly concerned by slow progress on new sites, with a “shockingly” low number of applications from councils for grants.

Calling for greater care in identifying appropriate locations to meet needs and avoid fuelling community tensions, the shadow housing secretary said: “The process must be transparent and fair, and communities must feel their views are genuinely taken into account.”

Her Plaid Cymru counterpart Siân Gwenllian said: “This is a very concerning situation. Although the Welsh Government has accepted the 21 recommendations from the 2022 report – very, very little true progress has been made.”

Ms Gwenllian stressed: “We can’t accept a situation where

Gypsies and Travellers are living in conditions that aren’t just below standard but also contrary to their human rights.”

She pointed out that the Welsh Government’s anti-racist Wales action plan promised improvement but “none of the key actions have been achieved”.

Again, totally unacceptable and difficult to understand because the funding was available,” she said, calling for urgent action to restore faith in ministers’ ability to deliver.

Labour backbencher Carolyn Thomas warned of noise and air pollution, with sites too often placed next to busy roads and industrial estates.

The former Flintshire councillor said: “Some councils take a long time to deal with repairs and maintenance. I recall a home we visited had a broken window and another had ineffective gutters for surface water – it had been like that for a long time.

“Residents pay rent for their sites just like any other tenant and are subject to council tax, gas, electricity and other charges in the same way as settled communities.”

Recognising that some

Travellers prefer private sites, Ms Thomas expressed concerns about planning proving controversial and permission taking a long time.

She raised “disproportionate pressures” in Flintshire with 15 illegal sites, including ten set up in one year, despite the council adopting a local development plan with allocated areas.

Plaid Cymru’s Sioned Williams warned of a “shameful” lack of progress on providing sites for Gypsies, Roma and Travellers since the committee’s initial report.

The shadow social justice secretary warned: “Families are in a worse position now than they have ever been in and they’re not seeing any change.”

Jane Hutt, her opposite number, said the Welsh Government shares the committee’s ambition to deliver the best outcomes for Gypsies, Roma and Travellers in Wales.

She told the Senedd more than £2m was allocated to 14 councils for site improvements in 2024/25, with grant funding made available for buying land in 2025/26.

Ms Hutt vowed to take action if councils fail to meet their duties on housing needs, warning: “I will use my powers to enforce action against them if a resolution cannot be found.”

The minister highlighted an ongoing consultation on nonstatutory guidance for councils about managing Gypsy and Traveller sites, which was last refreshed a decade ago.

She pointed to proposals for a new transit site in Flintshire, with only two in Wales currently.

Closing the debate on May 7, Mr Griffiths said: “We don’t have to look very far from here to see the reality of some, at least, local authority sites in totally inappropriate places, juxtaposed to busy roads, to industrial development, to waste disposal sites.

“To see families living in that way in this new millennium is hugely disappointing, so there’s still a lot of work to be done here in Wales.”

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

New Chairman appointed at Pembrokeshire County Council

Cllr Maureen Bowen takes on civic role following annual meeting

PEMBROKESHIRE County Council has welcomed its new Chairman, Cllr Maureen Bowen, following her formal installation at the authority’s Annual Meeting on Friday (May 9).

Cllr Bowen, a Labour representative for Pembroke Dock Bush ward since 2022, succeeds Cllr Steve Alderman of Hundleton in the role. She also sits on Pembroke Dock Town Council.

A familiar face in local government, Cllr Bowen previously served as ViceChairman of the County Council and brings a wealth of experience to her new civic position.

Originally from Tenby, Cllr Bowen raised her two sons there while running a small business. After her children left home, she relocated to the West Midlands, where her political journey began. She served for 16 years as a Labour Borough Councillor

on Stafford Borough Council and was an active member of the trade union USDAW, sitting on its executive council and representing the union at trade delegations both in the UK and overseas.

Cllr Bowen returned to Pembrokeshire in recent years and has since been a committed local representative.

Her nomination for Chairman was made by Cllr Paul Miller and seconded by Cllr Joshua Beynon.

Speaking after taking the chains of office, Cllr Bowen said: “I am greatly honoured to be elected Chair of Pembrokeshire County Council to represent this wonderful county. I hope that my experience as an elected member will stand me in good stead to represent the county with dignity and pride.”

Also at Friday’s meeting, Cllr Delme Harries was elected Vice Chairman of Council.

How much money Pembrokeshire makes from second homes tax premium

THE COUNCIL tax premium paid by second home-owners in Pembrokeshire is expected to net the council nearly £12.5m, councillors heard.

Late last year, Pembrokeshire councillors voted to drop the council tax premium on second homes from 200 per cent, effectively a treble rate, to 150 per cent.

Prior to that, second-home owners in the county were charged a 100 per cent (or double rate) premium.

Under Welsh Government legislation, local authorities are able to increase the council premium on second homes to as much as 300 per cent, effectively a quadruple rate.

A question submitted by member of the public Sian Evans, heard at the May 8 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “Item 58 of the Guidance on the Implementation of the Council Tax Premiums on Long-Term Empty Homes and Second Homes in Wales states: ‘A local authority will be able to retain any additional funds generated by implementing the premiums… amendments to the calculation of the tax base will be made to facilitate this’.

“To be clear, the income referred to is not the income collected as a result of the premiums but because of the resulting increase in the tax base.”

She asked for responses on two points.

“With reference to their itemisation on the budget documents, how

the danger that tax premiums are set solely for the purpose of raising the tax base?”

premiums, the actual overall figure has yet to be confirmed.

much item 58 ‘additional income’ did Pembrokeshire ‘generate’ in 2024 –2025 by ‘implementing the premiums’ in this way?”

And secondly: “Are there any safeguards in place to protect against

Responding, Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Michelle Bateman, standing in for Cllr Joshua Beynon, Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, said it was budgeted to generate £12.45m in 2024-’25 from the council tax

On the second question, Cllr Bateman said the premium was not set for raising the tax base, but was “simply a consequence,” adding that officers would be happy to meet with Miss Evans to discuss the matter in further detail.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

W ITH ANDREW LyE

last week eo

XIV as Pope, the news was also dominated by the announcement that the UK had agreed a trade deal with the US and Trump. Whether it is a good or not depends on your political perspective.

Tory leader, Kemi Badenoch said the UK had been shafted. That was probably sour grapes as the last Tory government had failed over years, to reach one.

When Biden left office, UK car manufacturers exporting to the US were subject to a 2.5% tariff. Trump then raised it to 25%. So a reduction announced to 10% on the first 100,000 cars is still an increase of 7.5%, since Trump started his tariff wars.

In response, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

“When it comes to any trade deal – and especially one with someone as unreliable as Donald Trump –the devil will be in the detail. One thing is clear, Trump’s trade tariffs are still hitting key British industries, threatening the livelihoods of people across the UK.

The Government must now publish the full details of this deal and give MPs a vote. It would show complete disrespect to the public if this deal was waved through without giving Parliament a say.

“The Liberal Democrats will continue to ask the questions the public want answers to. Like so many people, we have grave concerns about Donald Trump’s attempts to undercut British farmers, undermine children’s

online safety and secure tax breaks for US tech barons. These are compounded by Trump’s history of breaking his word and ripping up trade deals on a whim.”

With a trade agreement also agreed recently with India, Deputy Leader and Treasury Spokesperson

Daisy Cooper responded to comments made by the Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, about the need to rebuild Britain’s trade relationship with the EU.

Daisy Cooper said:

“Andrew Bailey has today added his voice to what Liberal Democrats have been saying for years: that we urgently need to rebuild our trading relationship with our closest and most significant economic partners in Europe.”

“This isn’t about revisiting the past, it’s about boosting our economy and deepening cooperation for the future. Despite the Government’s US deal, Trump’s trade tariffs are still hitting key British industries and threatening the livelihoods of people across the UK.”

“The Government must embrace a pragmatic and ambitious approach to our relationship with the EU - cutting red tape and providing a vital boost for our businesses.”

Brexiteers may celebrate the deals with India and the US, saying this is a benefit of us leaving the EU, but in no way will these deals get anywhere near to making up for the lost trade that we once had with the EU. We must do all we can to get a better deal with the EU than the disastrous one that Boris Johnson negotiated and his party signed up to.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

‘This can’t happen to anyone else ever again’: Call for ban on strip searching of children

A HUMAN rights expert called for a ban on strip searching of children in Wales, with black children disproportionately subject to the traumatising and degrading practice.

Rhian Croke, of the Children’s Legal Centre Wales, warned strip search is a violation of children’s rights as she called for less invasive alternatives such as body scanners.

Dr Croke said: “Instead of traumatising and degrading children including those who may be involved in offending… children should be treated as children first with dignity and respect.

“In Wales, strip search is contrary to the nation’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Wales-only legislation that promotes children’s rights….

“Wales should take the lead on ending the practice of strip search and instead invest in alternative technologies, so children have their rights protected.”

She stressed: “Children in contact with the police may have already experienced layers upon layers of trauma, to then inflict a strip search on a child is completely inappropriate.”

Dr Croke, who holds a PhD in law, pointed out that in most cases nothing illegal was found during searches conducted in custody, “yet the degrading practice continues”.

In a briefing for Senedd Members, jointly prepared with fellow campaigner Saqib Deshmukh, she expressed concerns about “totally inadequate” monitoring of incidents of strip searches.

Warning of a failure in transparency and accountability, Dr Croke said freedom of

“This report has taken over a year to come into the public domain,” she wrote. “It is a report of significant public interest that reveals a lack of compliance with existing legislation, a failure to uphold children’s rights and raises critical questions.”

Concerns first came to light in 2020 when a schoolgirl in London was wrongly accused of having drugs and strip searched while on her period without an appropriate adult present.

During a legal case, the girl said: “I can’t go a single day without wanting to scream, shout, cry or just give up. I don’t know if I’m going to feel normal again. But I do know this can’t happen to anyone else, ever again.”

information (FoI) requests revealed discrepancies and contradictions in the data reported by police.

A total of 5,428 strip searches of children were undertaken in Wales in two years to 2023, mostly for drugs and weapons, with six cases involving under 13s, according to one review. 85 involved a more thorough or intimate search beyond removing a coat, jacket or gloves.

South Wales Police was among the forces with the highest rate in Wales and England, with research suggesting black children are four times more likely to be strip searched.

In a letter revealed under FoI, Jason Davies, the deputy chief constable, acknowledged disproportionality in the number of ethnic minority children being strip searched.

But South Wales, Dyfed Powys, and Gwent Police refused to provide any data on child strip search cross-referenced by ethnicity in response to FoI requests, according to the briefing.

The researchers wrote: “We question whether the struggle to access data across various agencies and governments is a question of competence.

“It is unclear if it is a failure to achieve basic professional standards of transparency or if it is an act of obfuscation – a failure to share clear and intelligible data to avoid legal challenge.”

Dr Croke raised concerns about the review showing North Wales Police were only able to confirm the presence of an appropriate adult in about half to two-thirds of searches.

In another case involving the Met police, an autistic girl, 15, was handcuffed, pinned down and searched, with her underwear cut off in front of male officers, after 20 hours in custody. She was so traumatised she tried to kill herself within weeks, her mother said.

Senedd Members discussed the issue during a social justice committee meeting on May 12.

Plaid Cymru’s Sioned Williams said: “The very thorough inquiry raises major questions about what’s happening in Wales in terms of the fact that we say that we respect children’s rights. I do think we should write as a committee stating that we want to see this come to an end.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds, a social worker for 27 years, questioned whether the Welsh Government would have the powers to ban strip searching of children.

She said: “It is about rights and it is about a complete injustice in that, sadly, we know that most children who are strip searched are those from black and minority ethnic groups.”

With most of the justice system non-devolved, Labour’s Jenny Rathbone, who chairs the committee, said: “I fear we don’t have the powers, I’m sure it sits on the ‘jagged edge’.”

In 2024, an independent commission recommended devolving more powers to Wales, beginning with youth justice, probation and policing.

Lord Timpson – the UK minister responsible for prisons, probation and reducing reoffending – is scheduled to give evidence at the committee’s next meeting on May 19.

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Starmer’s immigration policy could devastate social care

THE PRIME MINISTER’s announcement of stricter rules on legal immigration, including curbing the influx of overseas workers to the UK’s creaking social care sector, led to controversy this week as backbenchers and senior party members expressed disquiet.

Labour’s - and the Conservatives’ - disastrous showing in the English local elections was almost immediately followed by stinging criticisms from within Labour’s local government cohort of the Labour government’s decision to means-test Winter Fuel Allowance and target benefit claimants. The Labour leadership’s response was to say, in terms, we won’t turn back. We will press on with our programme.

Except, that is, on immigration.

It was only coincidental that ten days after taking a shoeing, Keir Starmer came forward with plans to restrict legal immigration to the UK. It was not, let’s be clear, a cynical stunt by a governing party stunned by its unpopularity.

A White Paper is forthcoming, and Mr Starmer has claimed it will end lowskilled migration into the UK, clamp down on alleged abuses in the system of legal migration, and change the regime underpinning leave to stay in the UK. To reiterate, these measures are intended to curb LEGAL migration.

Sir Keir Starmer’s shift on legal migration to the UK is almost complete. From welcoming overseas workers as essential to maintaining public services, such as the NHS and social care, he now wants to cut the UK’s dependence on them.

It’s not as if the need for the UK to source, train, and supply its lowerpaid workforce from within its citizens is a bad idea. However, the UK is not in that position and won’t be for years. Starmer’s dots don’t connect to create a coherent picture.

RATTLED AND RATTYSTARMER UNDER PRESSURE

Disquiet among Labour’s backbench MPs and from local government heavyweights, Sir Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham, indicates getting the changes onto the statute book will be trickier than a massive House of Commons majority might suggest.

Worst of all, the PM has left himself under pressure for his choice of language (“an island of strangers”), which echo remarks made by Enoch Powell, for going too far to appease anti-immigration sentiment, and for not going far enough by Reform UK and the artist formerly known as the Conservative Party.

He is certainly feeling that pressure,

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

as his rattled and ratty response to a question from Plaid Cymru’s Liz SavilleRoberts at PMQs showed.

In fairness to Mr Starmer, it was a spectacularly nasty question, which threw the PM’s previous views on immigration back at him and capped them with: “It seems the only principle he consistently defends is whichever he last heard in a focus group. I ask him if there is any belief he holds that survives a week in Downing Street.”

His response might come back to haunt Mr Starmer: “Yes”, he shot back, “the belief that she talks rubbish.”

The problem the PM has is that he has so often and so loudly promoted legal migration to support the healthcare and social care sectors that evidence of the completeness of his U-Turn on the topic will continue to be thrown at him. In the future, he will have to do far better when they are. As an experienced barrister, Mr Starmer should know that when a question rattles a witness, it’s

usually a sign they are not telling the whole truth and nothing but it.

DISCONNECTED GOVERNMENT

The content of the Prime Minister’s announcement of a new policy on migration came as a surprise to his colleagues in the UK’s devolved governments. Such a surprise reveals a lack of connectedness or unity within Labour on a key issue.

On Tuesday, Darren Millar, the Welsh Conservative Leader, took the chance to explore that raw nerve.

Mr Millar asked Eluned Morgan whether she agreed that “immigration to the United Kingdom is too high and that we risk becoming an island of strangers?”

Baroness Morgan tried ducking the question: “I will not be drawn into a debate where people are using divisive language when it comes to immigration.”

Instead of picking up on the big flashing beacon (“People are using divisive language”, which invites a gentle inquiry as to whether by

“people” she means the Prime Minister), Mr Millar rehashed his first question with some added goads.

The First Minister ducked the question again: “I recognise that there are concerns in some of our communities, but I would point out that the levels of immigration in Wales are actually quite low.”

She then added that, if implemented as announced, Westminster’s policy would affect the delivery of health and social care in Wales.

Darren Millar tried asking his first two questions again.

“Look,” Baroness Morgan said, “if you wanted to discuss immigration, you should have gone to Westminster. We do not have responsibility. I think that it is important for us to recognise that there will be challenges due to these proposals.”

WELSH GOVERNMENT NOT TOLD ABOUT PROPOSALS

The following day, a topical question to the Welsh Government’s Minister for Social Care, Dawn Bowden, posed by Plaid Cymru’s Mabon ap Gwynfor, exposed the extent of Labour’s divisions.

Mr Ap Gwynfor not only pointed out the PM’s implicit assertion that care staff are low-skilled, but he also asked a pointed question: “Did this Government have any prior engagement with the UK Government on the proposal to end visas for overseas social care recruitment?”

The answer was none. The benefits of having the same party in power at either end of the M4 did not extend to considering how the change in policy might affect Wales.

Ms Bowden also confirmed that the Welsh Government can’t assess the policy’s potential impact because it doesn’t have access to data specific to Wales.

Ms Bowden told MSs: “We already have recruitment and retention challenges in social care, and international recruitment has been a feature of how we can fill those vacancies.”

She said there would be “conversations with the UK Government.

Doubtless, those “conversations” will have much the same outcomes as the “conversations” on Winter Fuel Allowance, reforming the Barnett Formula, benefits cuts, inheritance tax on family farms, HS2, and the devolution of the Crown Estate. It’s not a conversation if the other party isn’t listening.

Mind the gap: Morgan refused to condemn Starmer’s words

Mabon ap Gwynfor: WG not told about move to end care worker immigration

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!

yOu

ARE DO BETTER, PRIME MINISTER

DEAR SIR,

I am utterly dismayed by Sir Keir Starmer’s approach to immigration. After all the promises of a “serious plan” and “restoring control,” what we’ve been given is more of the same Westminster waffle — high on soundbites, low on substance. His pledge to tackle illegal immigration is little more than a rebrand of Conservative failures. He opposes the Rwanda scheme, but offers nothing credible in its place. We’re told Labour will smash the gangs, but how? Where is the detail? Where is the urgency?

We’ve had years of talk and no results — does anyone seriously believe Starmer will be different? Meanwhile, net migration continues to soar. The British public never voted for open borders, and yet every year brings record numbers. Our services are stretched, housing is in crisis, and working-class communities

are being asked to shoulder the burden while politicians posture in Westminster.

Labour used to stand for fair rules and strong communities. Starmer’s Labour seems more interested in appeasing the lobbyists, NGOs and lawyers than in listening to the people who pay the price.

We deserve better than this.

Jane Devonald

GET IT SORTED, WELSH WATER – POLLuTION IS KILLING OUR TOURISM

DEAR SIR,

As a local resident, I am absolutely appalled by the revelations that Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water committed over 800 breaches of its environmental permits—and has now been fined £1.35 million for what is, in essence, industrial-scale pollution.

This isn’t just a technical issue or a bureaucratic slip-up. This is a full-blown environmental scandal,

systemic failure to care about the environment, about communities, or about the law.

They blame IT systems and COVID disruption. But plenty of other companies managed their compliance duties during the pandemic. If Welsh Water couldn’t get it together, they should have admitted it and put emergency systems in place. Instead, they ploughed on regardless, missing samples, failing to report data, and compromising environmental oversight.

Now we’re told that Natural Resources Wales couldn’t even assess the full environmental impact because so much data was missing. That’s not just incompetence—that’s negligence.

and one that directly threatens the backbone of our country’s economy—tourism.

People don’t travel from across the UK and beyond to come and paddle in sewage, fish dead trout out of rivers, or walk along beaches with warnings about contaminated water. They come here for the beauty, the wildlife, the serenity. If Welsh Water continues to treat our rivers and coastlines as open sewers, that reputation will be destroyed—and with it, thousands of livelihoods.

Just last week, I saw dead fish in the River Cleddau near Haverfordwest. Let that sink in. This isn’t a distant problem in some industrial backwater—this is happening on our doorstep. Visitors bring canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore our waterways. How long before they’re warned not to go near them?

The Cleddau, Teifi, Taf, and other rivers are all part of what makes Pembrokeshire special. When Welsh Water allowed over 600 sewage monitoring breaches in just one year—across more than 300 sites—it showed a

We’ve had years of promises from Welsh Water about investment in infrastructure and environmental protection. But every year the performance seems to get worse. According to NRW’s own performance assessment, the company has now fallen from a four-star rating to just two stars, and last year recorded its worst ever performance. Is this what we’re paying our water bills for? I run a tourism-focused business, and I can tell you this: visitors talk. They read the news. If word spreads that Pembrokeshire’s rivers are polluted and its beaches are no longer clean, they will go elsewhere. Once our reputation is gone, it will be years—if not decades—before we get it back.

Welsh Water needs to be held fully to account. This fine must not be the end of the matter. The public deserves a full apology, a proper explanation, and a detailed plan of action. Not more PR gloss. Not more empty promises. We need concrete investment in our infrastructure, independent monitoring of every discharge site, and proper oversight of this socalled “not-for-profit” utility. To the senior management at Welsh Water, I say this: Get it sorted. This is your wake-up call. You are damaging the very environment you exist to protect. You are undermining public trust. And you are playing with the future of Welsh tourism and the rural economy. Fix it—before it’s too late.

YOURS SINCERELY, JOHN

LEE

SunriSe over Milford Haven by berty barrett

Death Notices

COLIN BENjAMIN HICkS EVANS

IT IS with great sadness that we announce the sudden but peaceful death of Colin Benjamin Hicks Evans at his home in Cwm Cenau, Nevern aged 66, on 30th April 2025

Colin was a dearly loved husband of the late Steph, a beloved father of James, Rob, Matthew, Nia, Aaron and the late Alison. A most loving grandad, son, brother, brother-in-law, father-inlaw and uncle, partner to Sarah and a good friend to so many.

A happy, caring, gentle man, always with a smile and a pillar of strength to all.

The funeral will take place at 1pm on Tuesday 27th May in St. Brynach Church, Nevern. All are welcome.

Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Colin, if desired, can be made to the DPJ Foundation c/o Paul Jenkins and Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard. SA65 9BB

CHRISTOPHER HAROLD WILLCOCK

CHRIS PASSED AWAY PEACEFULLY ON THE 23RD OF APRIL AGED 95 YEARS

A dearly loved husband to the late Dorothy, father of Ann and Paul, and grandfather of Joseph and Katherine,

he will be greatly missed by family and all who knew him.

His funeral service will take place on Tuesday 20th May at 12.15pm Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only, donations, if desired, for the Paul Sartori Foundation can be sent directly to Paul Sartori House, Winch Lane, Haverfordwest, SA61 1RP.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

PETER WALkDEN

THE death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Monday 5th May of Mr. Peter Walkden, aged 80 years of Ardent Close, Steynton, Milford Haven.

Devoted husband of Wendy, dearly loved father and father-in-law to Tony & Anita and Chris & Sue, cherished grandfather of Keiron, Lee, Lauren, Jack & Harry and an adored great grandfather.

Peter will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his extended family and many friends.

The funeral service will take place on Monday 2nd June at 1pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Immediate family flowers only, donations if desired for The British Heart Foundation may be made via www.bhf. org.uk.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons

Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180

HILARy ANNE

FORD

HIlARy, of Derwent Avenue, Steynton, Milford Haven died peacefully at Parc Y Llyn Nursing Home, Ambleston on Sunday 20th April 2025, aged 87 years.

Beloved wife of the late Tony, devoted mother of Myfanwy, Rhiannon and David, cherished mother-in-law of Peter, loving grandmother of Alejandra and much-loved sister and sister-in-law of Jim and Louise.

Hilary was loved dearly and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday 22nd May 2025 at 11:30am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180.

GLANFFRWD EDWIN (GLAN) PHILLIPS FRCS

PASSED away peacefully at Morriston Hospital on Sunday 27 April.

Glan, a well known and much respected orthopaedic surgeon, served the County selflessly for over thirty years.

He will be sadly missed by Jennifer his loving wife, son Jonathan, and

grandchildren, Gethin, Owain and Nia. Funeral arrangements are to follow.

ROSALAE RICHARDSON

PEACEFULLY on April 24th, Rosalae of St. Davids aged 86 years.

Beloved wife of the late Larry, much loved mother of Stephen, Alan, Neil, Leigh and Mandy.

Dearly loved by all her grandchildren and many relatives.

Funeral Service on Wednesday May 14th at 12.00pm at St. Davids Cathedral.

Enquiries to W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, Funeral Directors 01437 720537

PAuL kNIGHT LuCAS BEM, JP

PAUL, passed away peacefully on Thursday April 17th 2025 aged 70 years.

Beloved husband of Eirwen, loving and devoted father of Alexandra and a dear father in law of Morgan. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all his family, many friends and the wider community of Pembrokeshire.

The funeral will be held on Friday 23rd May, service at 1.00 pm at St. Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest.

A private family cremation will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

Hakin United lift West Wales Intermediate Cup

First win in 21 years caps off remarkable season for the Vikings

HAKIN UNITED are celebrating after being crowned West Wales Intermediate Cup champions for the 2024–25 season, following a

dramatic 3–2 win over Tenby in Wednesday night’s final (May 15) at the Swansea.com Stadium.

The Vikings, who also recently

won the Pembrokeshire Senior Cup, completed a sensational double in front of a passionate crowd, ending a 21-year wait to reclaim the prestigious

regional title. Their last triumph in the competition came during the 2003–04 campaign.

The final proved to be a thrilling contest, with both sides going toe to toe in an evenly matched affair. Hakin’s attacking intent paid off with three vital goals, while Tenby refused to back down and kept themselves in the tie with two of their own. In the end, the Pembrokeshire League giants edged it, showing their experience and grit on the big stage.

The win was the culmination of a hard-fought campaign. Hakin had reached the final by overcoming Dafen Welfare 3–1 in the quarter-finals and then defeating St Joseph’s with a last-gasp winner from substitute Leon Luby in the semi-final – a moment that sealed their return to the West Wales showpiece after more than two decades.

The club’s official social media celebrated the achievement with the message: “West Wales Intermediate Champions 24/25 – Boys, we love you!” echoing the joy felt across the town and among the travelling supporters in Swansea.

This cup final success once again underlines Hakin United’s status as one of the most successful and consistent clubs in Pembrokeshire football. With silverware secured and pride restored, attention now turns to building on this momentum in the seasons ahead.

First outdoor pickleball courts open in Milford Haven

A NEW pickleball court has opened in Milford Haven — the first of its kind in Pembrokeshire.

Pickleball Milford Haven has spent the last few months preparing the play area at St Katharine’s Green on The Rath, transforming it into a dedicated space for the fast-growing sport.

The first session took place on Saturday (May 10), with a good turnout and several newcomers saying they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, is gaining popularity across the UK for its accessibility and fun, social nature.

Anyone interested in joining or learning more is invited to contact Mrs Queenie Scales on 07814 122443.

National Road Championships

returnS to West Wales this summer!

CEREDIGION will host the 2025 Lloyds National Road Championships from June 26 to 29, bringing elitelevel cycling to west Wales – and Pembrokeshire residents are being encouraged to make the short trip across the border to enjoy the action.

A total of ten national champion’s jerseys will be contested across three days of racing, with the time-trial on Thursday, June 26, the circuit race on Friday, June 27, and the road race concluding the event on Sunday, June 29.

Entries for all events are open now and will close at midnight on Sunday, June 1. Full route details can be found at www.ceredigion.gov.uk

Time-trial • Aberaeron

Thursday, June 26

The opening event takes place around Aberaeron, with a challenging route beginning in Ffos-y-ffin and heading along fast-rolling roads to Ciliau Aeron before returning via a short but steep climb at Rhiw Goch. Elite women and under-23 riders will cover 27km, while elite men will face a 41km course.

Circuit race • Aberystwyth

Friday, June 27

The circuit race will take place in Aberystwyth on Friday evening. Riders will race for 50 minutes plus five laps on a 1.6km loop through the town centre,

including Pier Street, Portland Street and Queens Road. The start and finish line will be on the seafront promenade. Spectators will have several opportunities to see the action as riders pass iconic landmarks like the Bandstand and old college.

Road race • Aberystwyth

Sunday, June 29

The championships culminate in a gruelling road race beginning on Aberystwyth’s promenade and heading out towards Trawsgoed on a 23.4km anticlockwise loop. The course includes a maximum gradient of 9.1% and a technical 13.8% descent from Moriah to the A44. The women’s race will cover 128km and the men’s 187km, finishing on the seafront.

The finishing circuits, which loop through the old harbour and over Trefechan Bridge, are expected to deliver a thrilling end to each race.

Stevie Williams, winner of last year’s Lloyds Tour of Britain Men and a native of Aberystwyth, said: “Racing on home roads is a rare opportunity which always makes it extra special, so I can’t wait to get out on the roads I know so well.”

Jonathan Day, Managing Director for British Cycling Events, said: “The locations for each of the championships are stunning and provide a great test for the riders. There are multiple opportunities for spectators to see the riders pass these iconic landmarks.”

Ceredigion County Council has worked

closely with organisers to support the event, which is expected to bring visitors and cycling fans from across the UK. Councillor Clive Davies said: “The routes will demonstrate all that Ceredigion has to offer, from the coast to the countryside, taking in iconic sights along the way.” Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans said the event was a key milestone as Wales prepares to host the Tour de France for the first time in 2027.

Thrills and tight finishes at Ramsey Island rowing race

Competitors travelled more than 100 miles to take part in one of the most eagerly anticipated sea rowing events of the calendar – the Ramsey Island Rowing Race – held on Saturday, 10 May.

Organised by Solva Rowing Club, the challenging eight-mile course pushes crews through one of the most treacherous and scenic routes in Welsh coastal waters. The race begins at Whitesands Beach, St Davids, with boats launching through the surf before tackling Ramsey Sound, navigating the notorious Bitches rocks, and squeezing through a narrow passage only wide enough for a single boat. Crews must then round the island’s exposed western flank before making their way back through the same demanding waters.

Owing to the hazardous nature of the course, the race can only be staged under specific tidal and weather conditions. Fortunately, this year’s event saw near-perfect conditions, allowing for a safe but thrilling competition.

A total of 21 Celtic Longboats completed the race, with the entire fleet finishing within 25 minutes of each other – and less than a minute separating the first and second crews.

Claiming the overall victory were Aberystwyth Men in Ceridwen, clocking an impressive 1 hour, 4 minutes, and 41 seconds, also

securing the title of top senior veteran crew. Hot on their heels, just 50 seconds behind, was the mixed veteran crew from Llangwm Longboats Rowing Club – Smile and Waves in Kiddles. In third place overall were the Cardigan men’s super veteran crew in Seconds Ahead, finishing a further 30

seconds later.

Among the standout performances was the Aberystwyth Ladies team, who were the first female crew home in Branwen. Notably, the two Solva Rowing Club crews – a ladies team and a men’s super veterans crew – finished with identical times, a rare occurrence in

such a demanding race.

Before the event got underway, part of Whitesands Beach was transformed into a temporary boat park. Crews launched and later recovered their vessels through the surf – fortunately, the waves remained manageable throughout the day.

Among the special awards handed out was one for best landing and recovery, presented to the Solva Selkies in Auntie Mattie, recognising their skilful handling in the surf.

Solva Rowing Club chairman Steve Probert paid tribute to the many individuals and organisations who made the event possible. He said:

“Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this event such a success – from the safety boat drivers and crew, Porth Mawr Surf Lifesavers for use of their building, the RNLI Lifeguards who helped with beach marshalling and keeping other sea users safe, St Davids City Council for their support and help with car parking, and, of course, our club members who worked so hard, both before and on the day.”

With another successful race in the books, the Ramsey Island Rowing Race continues to cement its reputation as one of the premier sea rowing challenges in the UK, drawing skilled crews from far and wide to test their mettle against the elements and each other.

Snooker: Waterloo B seal league and cup double in dominant display

WATERLOO B capped off a remarkable season by completing the league and cup double last night, defeating Hook B by 46 points in a well-contested final.

The match began with Lee Walters (Waterloo B) taking on Rob Phelps (Hook B). Phelps made the stronger start and opened up a 20-point lead, but Walters showed resilience, steadily closing the gap and potting the final three colours to take the frame by 12 points.

The second frame featured a doubles encounter between S. Jenkins & D. James (Waterloo B) and S. Jones & S. John (Hook B). It was a nervy affair, with both sides potting well, but the Waterloo pair edged ahead to win by 22 points — extending their team’s overall lead to 34.

In the third frame, Alan Davies

(Waterloo B) faced John Davies (Hook B) in a cautious, tactical contest. Alan’s well-placed snookers proved decisive, and John was unable to escape them cleanly. Alan went on to win the frame by 19 points, pushing Waterloo’s overall lead to 53.

The final frame brought together R. James & G. James (Waterloo B) against T. John & C. James (Hook B). With Hook needing a 53-point win to snatch the match, the odds were stacked against them. They fought hard and managed to take the frame by 7 points, but Waterloo B still secured a comfortable 46-point overall victory — and with it, the cup.

The match was played in great spirit, with both teams showing excellent sportsmanship. Thanks were extended to Peter Thomas for officiating the match.

Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League

Record chases in week of high drama

THE THIRD week of the Thomas Carroll Pembroke County Cricket League delivered thrilling contests, standout performances, and significant table movements as clubs across all divisions fought to build early-season momentum.

DIVISION 1: Carew crush Saundersfoot, Cresselly and neyland stay unbeaten

Carew made a resounding statement at the top of Division 1 with a 198-run demolition of Saundersfoot, amassing 341-5 thanks to a blistering 142 from Tim Hicks and 77 from Adam Chandler. With the ball, Barry Evans took 4-17 and James Hinchcliffe chipped in with 3-43 to bowl Saundersfoot out for 143.

Cresselly remain hot on Carew’s heels after a comfortable 132-run win at Haverfordwest. Tom Murphy struck a commanding 67 as Cresselly posted 254-6 before Christian Phillips ripped through the hosts with 5-22.

Elsewhere, Neyland’s powerful batting display secured a 47-run win over Whitland. Paul Murray’s 83 set the

tone before Jack John’s 6-36 dismantled the Whitland response.

Herbrandston edged Lawrenny in a tight contest, winning by 10 runs after setting 215-9. Key all-round contributions came from Harry Nicholas (43 & 2-37) and Nathan Banner (32 & 2-24), while Lawrenny’s Finley Lewis hit 56 in vain.

Burton picked up their first win of the season, beating Llangwm by 30 runs, thanks to 56 from Dan Llewellyn and a four-wicket haul by Morgan Scale.

Carew top the Division 1 table with 58 points from three wins, closely followed by Cresselly on 56. Neyland remain in third with 46 points.

DIVISION 2: nail-biters and centuries as top three pull ahead

A remarkable unbeaten 93 from Loui Davies guided Narberth to a tense twowicket victory over Burton II, maintaining their perfect start. Narberth now lead the Division 2 table on 58 points, level with Hook, who scraped a one-wicket win over Cresselly II after chasing 262, powered by 98 from Neal Williams for

the hosts.

Pembroke are close behind in third, following a 13-run win over Llechryd. Krunel Patel starred with 24 and 4-22 to edge out a tight defence of 145.

Carew II edged St Ishmaels by five runs in another low-scoring affair, with Sam Harts claiming 4-32. Johnston dominated Llanrhian by nine wickets, thanks to Lee Summons’ unbeaten 70 and a collective bowling performance that left the hosts 153-9.

DIVISION 3: laugharne hammer neyland ii, fishguard lead the pack

A breathtaking 98 from Callum Collins-Davies and a five-wicket haul from Sam Lynch propelled Laugharne to a 171-run rout of Neyland II, who were bowled out for just 59.

Fishguard top Division 3 after a 62-run win over Lamphey, with Nigel Delaney producing an all-round masterclass, scoring 85 and taking 2-16.

Pembroke Dock, Stackpole, and Kilgetty all registered wins to stay in the title hunt, with Josh Davies’ unbeaten 89 leading Stackpole to a five-wicket win over Kilgetty.

DIVISION 4: durey and Hawkins star in huge wins

Crymych’s Nitai Durey slammed an unbeaten 119 as his side chased down Narberth II’s 167 with ease. Steffan Williams also hit 79 not out and took 5-30 in a dominant all-round display.

Darren Hawkins’ century anchored St Ishmaels II’s 72-run win over Carew III, while Saundersfoot II retained their position at the top of the table with a

narrow six-wicket win over Pembroke II, thanks to Steve Cook’s unbeaten 78. Lawrenny II were clinical in a 10-wicket win over Llangwm II, as Alfie Buckle’s 103* ensured a perfect chase of 166.

DIVISION 5: High-scoring thrillers and tight finishes

Herbrandston II edged Haverfordwest IV by just two wickets, with Johnnie Lewis hitting 79 not out. Pembroke Dock II also impressed, chasing 190 to beat Hundleton II by eight wickets, led by Luke Murray’s unbeaten 82. Cresselly III crushed Neyland III by 62 runs with Tom Rowlands topscoring on 72, while Whitland II romped to a nine-wicket win over Llechryd II, powered by 58 from Dafydd James and 4-10 by Rhys Davies.

DIVISION 6: Jenkins and James shine for Haverfordwest/Cresselly Haverfordwest/Cresselly maintained top spot with a six-wicket win over Whitland III, bowling them out for 93. Arthur Jenkins and Jake Manuel took two wickets apiece before the latter guided the chase with an unbeaten 19.

LOOKING AHEAD

With three weeks of action completed, early trends are emerging in all divisions. Carew and Cresselly appear set for a fierce Division 1 title battle, while Division 2 is shaping up into a three-way tussle between Narberth, Hook, and Pembroke. In Division 3, Fishguard’s form is commanding, and in Division 4, Saundersfoot II’s unbeaten start has made them the early pacesetters.

Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League Table

RESuLTS: 10/05/2025

Burton (181) beat Llangwm (151) by 30 runs

Carew (314-5) beat Saundersfoot (143) by 171 runs

Haverfordwest (122) lost to Cresselly (254-6) by 132 runs

Lawrenny (205) lost to Herbrandston (215-9) by 10 runs

Whitland (218) lost to Neyland (265-4) by 47 runs

Cresselly II (262-8) lost to Hook (266-9) by 1 wkt

Llanrhian (153-9) lost to Johnston (156-1) by 9 wkts

Narberth (143-8) beat Burton II (139-6) by 2 wkts

Pembroke (145) beat Llechryd (132-9) by 13 runs

St Ishmaels (156) lost to Carew II (161-8) by 5 runs

Fishguard (197-8) beat Lamphey (135-8) by 62 runs

Hook II (53) lost to Pembroke Dock (57-3) by 7 wkts

Hundleton (112-8) lost to Haverfordwest II (113-6) by 4 wkts

Kilgetty (160) lost to Stackpole (161-5) by 5 wkts

Neyland II (59) lost to Laugharne (230-6) by 171 runs

Carew III (184-8) lost to St Ishmaels II (256-3) by 72 runs

Crymych (207-1) beat Narberth II (167) by 40 runs

Haverfordwest III (131-7) beat Llanrhian II (129-8) by 3 wkts

Llangwm II (166) lost to Lawrenny II (167-0) by 10 wkts

Saundersfoot II (187-4) beat Pembroke II (186-7) by 6 wkts

Herbrandston II (163-8) beat Haverfordwest IV (162-7) by 2 wkts

Llechryd II (149-8) lost to Whitland II (153-1) by 9 wkts

Neyland III (143) lost to Cresselly III (205-7) by 62 runs

Pembroke Dock II (191-2) beat Hundleton II (190-7) by 8 wkts

H’west-Cresselly (94-4) beat Whitland III (93) by 6 wkts

FIXTuRES: 17/05/2025

Cresselly v Lawrenny

Herbrandston v Haverfordwest

Llangwm v Carew

Neyland v Burton

Saundersfoot v Whitland

Burton II v St Ishmaels

Carew II v Llanrhian

Hook v Pembroke

Johnston v Narberth

Llechryd v Cresselly II

Haverfordwest II v Neyland II

Lamphey v Kilgetty

Laugharne v Hook II

Pembroke Dock v Hundleton

Stackpole v Fishguard

Lawrenny II v Carew III

Llanrhian II v Crymych

Narberth II v Saundersfoot II

Pembroke II v Haverfordwest III

St Ishmaels II v Llangwm II

Cresselly III v Llechryd II

Haverfordwest IV v Pembroke Dock II

Hundleton II v Herbrandston II

Whitland II v Neyland III

Kilgetty II v Lamphey II

Llechryd III v Whitland III

Pembroke III v H’west-Cresselly

National Road Championships returnS to West Wales this summer!