The Pembrokeshire Herald 23/05/2025

Henry Tufnell MP

Shop worker robbed at knifepoint for £50 from till

A SHOP WORKER was robbed at knifepoint during a terrifying incident in Milford Haven on Saturday morning (May 17).

Pirintha Jeyanthirakumar, who was working her shift at the Pill Ship store on Pill Lane, described the ordeal as “scary” after a masked man entered the shop at around 10am and demanded money.

“I was very very scared, shocked,” she told The Herald. “I gave him the money and straight away I called the police.”

The suspect, described as a young man wearing a mask and a hoodie, reportedly demanded £50 before fleeing the scene.

Shop owner Mathan Sritharin, who was not present at the time of the robbery, told The Herald that police responded swiftly. “The police came quickly – within about 20 minutes,” he said.

When The Herald visited the premises at around 2:00pm, a police forensics officer was on site dusting for fingerprints and collecting evidence in an effort to identify the suspect.

The manager said that while they had reviewed CCTV footage, the individual was hard to recognise due to the mask. He added that it is possible the man is not from the local area, although this has not been confirmed.

Staff at the store said they intend to post the clearest possible CCTV image on the shop’s Facebook page. The Herald has agreed to share any images on its social media platforms to assist with the investigation.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact DyfedPowys Police. The police said: “We are appealing for information following a report of a robbery at a shop in Milford Haven this morning (Saturday, May 17).

“A call was received at 10am reporting that a man wearing a face covering and holding a Stanley knife entered the Pill Corner Shop on Pill Lane and demanded cash.

“He was described as being around 5’ 5” tall and was dressed in black. He possibly had black tights pulled over his face.

“When he left the shop, he ran towards Beech Hill.

“Anyone who saw a man matching this description, or who was driving in the area and might have dash cam footage of him, is asked to get in touch in one of the following ways:

https://orlo.uk/SMiCo 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk 101

Please quote reference 100 of Saturday, May 17.”

Woman denies using sock filled with snooker balls in street fight

A 37-YEAR-OLD woman from Pembroke Dock has denied possessing a sock stuffed with snooker balls during an alleged town centre street fight.

Frances Wallace, of King Street, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week charged with possession of an offensive weapon and using unlawful violence towards others

during an incident in Pembroke Dock on June 15, 2024.

She is accused of arming herself with the makeshift weapon—a sock containing snooker balls—during what prosecutors described as a “serious public order offence” witnessed by around 20 members of the public.

Also in the dock was Stephen Charge, 52, of Pembroke Street,

Pembroke Dock, who faces a single charge of using threatening and unlawful violence. He entered no plea.

Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies told the court: “Both defendants were involved in a street fight that took place in Pembroke Dock. Police carried out extensive investigations, including reviewing video footage, which showed Frances Wallace armed herself with the

sock containing snooker balls and used it as a weapon.

“You can imagine what it must have been like in Pembroke Dock at the time.”

Magistrates declined jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the case and it will now proceed to Swansea Crown Court on June 20.

Both defendants were released on unconditional bail.

Police appeal to locate wanted man

DYFED-POWYS POLICE are appealing for information to help locate Gareth Edwards, aged 35, from Aberystwyth

He is wanted on suspicion of sexual assault and a drug offence.

dwards is believed to have links to the Swansea area and may be in that region.

Anyone who has seen Gareth Edwards or has information that could assist officers in locating him is urged to contact police via one of the following methods:

• Online form

• Email: 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk

• Call: 101

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

Please quote reference: 25000405741.

Malicious communications charges dropped against Welsh prison campaigner Zack Griffiths

WEST WALES prison reform advocate Zack Griffiths has had all malicious communications charges against him dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service—but still faces one remaining charge linked to a video posted on social media. Griffiths, who has become a prominent critic of conditions at HMP Parc in Bridgend, was arrested in April this year while attending Cardiff Crown Court. He was subsequently recalled to prison, where he remains in custody.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The dropped charges were originally brought under the Online Safety Act and related to alleged online harassment. However, the CPS has now confirmed it will offer no evidence on these counts.

Supporters have claimed the charges were part of a campaign to silence Griffiths’ outspoken activism.

The remaining charge concerns

a video filmed inside a prison, which appeared in a Facebook group run by Griffiths. While it is not alleged that Griffiths himself posted the footage, prosecutors claim he is liable as the group administrator for failing to remove the content.

His legal team, however, argue that the video was uploaded using the platform’s anonymous posting feature, and that Griffiths had no knowledge of its publication. They are expected to apply to have the charge struck out at a hearing on Friday (May 24).

Griffiths is a former inmate who served time for drug-related offences. Since his release, he has dedicated himself to campaigning on behalf of prisoners and their families, often using social media to highlight alleged corruption, drug abuse, and violence inside UK prisons—particularly HMP Parc.

In November 2024, he was jailed for 12 months for posting a video of a Parc prison officer restraining an inmate. He also falsely accused a staff member of involvement in drug dealing, leading to a restraining order. Griffiths represented himself during that trial and argued he was acting in the public interest.

The case against him continues against the backdrop of intensifying scrutiny at HMP Parc, where six prison officers have been arrested in recent months on suspicion of misconduct in public office, and where several deaths in custody are under investigation.

Griffiths’ supporters have branded the ongoing legal proceedings a “witch hunt” and are calling for a public inquiry into G4S-run Parc Prison.

Health board launches critical services consultation as MP demands answers

A MAJOR public consultation on the future of nine vital NHS services in west Wales is expected to be launched on Wednesday (May 29), following a meeting of Hywel Dda University Health Board.

The consultation, part of the board’s Clinical Services Plan, will run until August 31 and seek views on how care is delivered across services including critical care, stroke, radiology, emergency general surgery and orthopaedics. All nine services have been described as “fragile” by the board due to mounting pressures on staff, infrastructure and safety.

The consultation comes after months of political pressure, with elected representatives across parties accusing the health board of presiding over a system that is “not delivering” for the people of west Wales.

TUFNELL PRESSES FOR ACTION

Labour MP Henry Tufnell, who represents Mid and South Pembrokeshire, has already met with Hywel Dda’s leadership several times this year, including a formal meeting with Chief Executive Dr Phil Kloer on February 14, where he presented findings from a major survey of over 1,000 local residents.

“There’s still no acceptance by the board that there’s a problem,” Mr Tufnell said. “The management is failing us here in Pembrokeshire. There’s a complete lack of transparency and accountability.”

He said 62% of residents reported waiting over a week for a GP appointment, and 87% believed health services in the region had worsened in recent years. He has submitted a Freedom of Information request to the board demanding transparency on waiting times, patient access, and emergency care capacity.

Although health is devolved to the Welsh Government, Tufnell insists he will continue to apply pressure as the public face of growing discontent in Westminster.

“I want to see concrete commitments to improving patient access and safeguarding the future of local hospitals. The people I represent deserve clarity, not vague promises,” he added.

MSS

WARN OF CRISIS AND CALL FOR PROTECTION OF WITHYBUSH

Concern over the future of Withybush Hospital and wider NHS services is also being raised by Senedd Members. On Wednesday (May 22), Samuel Kurtz MS and Paul Davies MS met with senior

Health Board figures to demand urgent action.

“The number one issue in my inbox is unacceptable treatment delays,” Kurtz said. “Behind every statistic is a person — someone living in pain, anxiety, or uncertainty because our health system is not delivering.”

He went further, accusing the Welsh Labour Government of failing after 26 years of overseeing NHS Wales:

“No amount of spin from Labour Ministers can cover up the truth: our health service is in crisis.”

Kurtz and Davies called for full protection of Withybush Hospital and its emergency department, warning that any further downgrading would be “unacceptable to local people.”

WITHYBUSH: HOSPITAL UNDER STRAIN

Withybush General Hospital in Haverfordwest remains at the heart of local fears. In 2023, six wards were forced to close due to the discovery of

in the structure—leading to the loss of over 100 beds during emergency repairs. Although the hospital reopened in April 2024, officials warn the issue is ongoing, with further scanning and potential closures scheduled later this year.

The hospital has already seen key services centralised or reduced over the past decade, sparking repeated public protests. Critics argue the consultation could be used to justify further cuts.

CONSULTATION OPENS AMID NHS CRISIS

The Clinical Services Plan proposes to review nine key services across west Wales: critical care, emergency general surgery, stroke, endoscopy, radiology, dermatology, ophthalmology, orthopaedics and urology.

The Health Board says no preferred option has been chosen and insists the public consultation is vital to shaping future services.

Interim Medical Director Mr Mark Henwood said: “We want to hear your views on which options best address

the challenges, improve standards, and reduce waiting times. We’re also keen to understand any concerns, impacts, or alternative ideas you may have — including your thoughts on the future role of our main hospitals.”

The consultation launches amid the release of new NHS Wales data showing continued underperformance on cancer treatment targets, delays in A&E departments, and worsening waiting times across many regions—including Pembrokeshire.

GET INvOLvED

The public can share views through online questionnaires and at a series of in-person and virtual events running throughout the summer. The consultation results will be considered by the Health Board in November 2025—unless high response levels delay analysis.

To take part or learn more, visit: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/clinicalservices-plan

Residents can also register with the board’s engagement scheme at: https://www.haveyoursay.hduhb. wales.nhs.uk/siarad-iechyd-talking-health

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Henry Tufnell MP: Says Heath Board has lack of transparency and accountability

WG celebrates missing NHS performance targets

LONG waits for treatments in Wales have fallen by two-thirds in the last 4 months.

The Welsh Government is celebrating that statistic in response to the latest data release regarding Welsh NHS performance.

In the Hywel Dda UHB area, two-year waits for outpatient treatment have been reduced to nil.

However, the hard fact is that, even after moving the goalposts for performance, the Welsh Government failed to ensure that Wales’s health boards hit the target it set for eliminating them.

MISSING THE TARGET AGAIN

That harsh interpretation of the figures is underscored by the fact that the thenHealth Minister, now First Minister, Eluned Morgan, pledged to eliminate two-year waits by March 2023 and, when that target was dismally missed, by March 2024. While waiting lists have fallen to their lowest levels since April 2021, that still means they are far higher than they were before the pandemic.

Being the Welsh Government’s Health Minister is a thankless task. Each month, they must continue to look for a golden needle in a haystack of poor performance. Nevertheless, despite missing its targets (again), Jeremy Miles was able to signal some positive achievements.

Thousands more treatments and tests have been delivered across NHS Wales due to more evening and weekend appointments, regional working between health boards and renewed efforts to improve access to planned care.

The overall size of the waiting list has also decreased for the fourth consecutive month, and long waits for outpatient appointments and diagnostic treatments in March 2025 also declined.

Nevertheless, one statistic, highlighted as an achievement by the Welsh Government, demonstrates the severity of the waiting list crisis. Two thousand one hundred sixty-six additional neurodevelopmental assessments, beyond core NHS activity, eliminated three-year waiting lists for them. The existence of a three-year waiting list casts the claimed “win” into sharp relief.

MILES TAKES THE “WIN”

Wales’s Health Secretary, Jeremy Miles, said: “There are now just under 8,400 people waiting more than 2 years.

“I would particularly like to praise Swansea Bay and Hywel Dda University Health Boards, which have joined Powys Health Board in having no patients waiting more than a year for a first outpatient appointment or two years for treatment.”

Mr Miles praised NHS staff for their efforts, taking care to highlight how the Welsh Government was working “together” with them. That glib association is undermined by Labour politicians’ ongoing attacks on the Health Boards that

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

employ those staff. It suggests that Welsh ministers accept any praise for improved performance, while any performance failures are attributed to others.

Jeremy Miles continued to acknowledge that “pressure on emergency services continues”.

Although performance against waiting time targets improved in A&E departments, Hywel Dda UHB has issued repeated warnings about its A&E services under pressure, including requests for patients not to attend. Furthermore, the Welsh Government’s desperation to change the goalposts on ambulance waiting times for the most serious emergency calls was demonstrated by the fact that barely half of such calls were met within eight minutes.

“ANY

SUCCESS OvERSHADOWED”

Commenting on the latest statistics, James Evans MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said: “Any success claimed by Labour Ministers today will be overshadowed by the fact that the Welsh NHS remains fundamentally broken after 26 years of mismanagement.

“The Welsh Labour Government is still missing its cancer targets, and no one at all should be waiting two years for treatment or over 12 hours in A&E, let alone over ten thousand patients.”

Mr Evans continued: “The Welsh Conservatives would go much further, guaranteeing 12-month maximum waits for treatment and 7-day waits for GP appointments, by declaring a health emergency and directing the resources and the entire apparatus of government at the health service.”

While the Welsh Government celebrates its failure to hit its two-year wait target, it continues to miss a series of other targets.

TARGETS MISSED BY A MILE

The Welsh Government set a target of no one waiting for longer than a year for their first outpatient appointment by the end of 2022. There are 71,000 open patient pathways over one year.

A target to reduce the maximum wait for specified diagnostic tests to eight weeks and the maximum wait for access to specified therapy services to fourteen weeks was due to be met by Spring 2024. Thirty-five thousand two hundred patient pathways were waiting longer than the target time for diagnostics. Four thousand patient pathways were waiting longer than the target time for therapies.

One hundred fifty-five thousand eight hundred patients were waiting more than one year in most specialties. The Welsh Government pledged to eliminate such waiting times by earlier this year.

Those are the Welsh Government’s targets. It has missed them.

A target to reduce the proportion of patients in A&E waiting for treatment, discharge, or referral for further treatment for more than twelve hours is nowhere near being hit. In April, 10,186 patients waited 12 hours or more in Welsh emergency departments. The target is zero.

CONSTANT FAILURE AND MISSED TARGETS

Plaid Cymru criticised the Labour Government’s mismanagement of the NHS over the last 26 years of power, accusing them of running the Welsh NHS into the ground by consistently missing targets with no real sign of improvement.

Plaid Cymru spokesperson on Health, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, said: “Hundreds of thousands of people on waiting lists, over 8,000 of those waiting over two years. The fact that any government is trying to claim that as a win is a sign of how far down the road of Labour mismanagement we are.

“A record of constant failure and missed targets - that is the record of this

Labour Government when it comes to our NHS. A record of people waiting too long, not getting the service they deserve – a record of failure.

“Even after moving the goalposts from their original target of eradicating two-year waits in 2023, Labour have still managed to miss their targets. Not only that, but on every single performance indicator, Labour has missed its targets.

“An NHS run into the ground, and waiting lists as long as this simply isn’t as good as it gets for Wales, our NHS can be so much more than this.”

Mary Cowern, Head of Wales, Cymru Versus Arthritis, said: “The reduction in the number of people waiting over two years for orthopaedic surgery is of course positive, but the reality is that whether someone is waiting slightly above or slightly below two years is really besides the point. The reality is that nobody should be waiting anywhere near that length of time in pain for vital surgery.

“The Welsh Government has created its own backlog of missed waiting times targets. It’s vital they clear two year waits as soon as possible, but we need a lot more ambition and urgency. We need to know when the 29,694 over one year waits for orthopaedic surgery will be cleared and how and when the NHS will return to the old 26 week target.

“We hear from people on the orthopaedic waiting list - the lives behind the statistics - every day. They tell us of the all-day, every-day pain they live with, its impact on their mental health and how they fear losing their independence. Their frustration is enormous, they know how transformative orthopaedic surgery can be.

“We need to see decisive action to clear the orthopaedic backlog, including faster progress on delivering surgical hubs and more regional working to provide equity of access and ensure capacity meets current and future demand across Wales.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS said: “Two-year-long waiting lists for NHS treatment are unacceptable, given England virtually wiped out waits of this length several years ago, serious questions remain about how Labour have managed the NHS in Wales.

“People should never be forced to go private because they are spending months in pain waiting for treatment; the public deserves better.”

Commenting on the general state of the statistics published today, Jane Dodds MS said:

“Waiting lists in Wales are far too high, even though some reductions are welcome. Labour’s mismanagement of the health service in Wales for the past 25 years has cost the public dearly.

“Unless social care is fixed, we won’t see the long-term reduction in pressure on our hospitals, and that is why fixing social care is the Welsh Liberal Democrats’ biggest priority as we head into next year’s Senedd elections.”

Teenager jailed for stabbing outside Milford Haven McDonald’s

A YOUNG man has been jailed after a teenager was stabbed during a violent confrontation near McDonald’s in Milford Haven last summer.

The incident happened on the night of August 24, 2024, when a group of friends were confronted near the Victoria Bridge and later outside the fast food restaurant.

MCAULEY BROWN, aged 18, of Tower View, Marloes, pleaded guilty on the day of his trial at Swansea Crown Court to inflicting grievous bodily harm and threatening another man with a knife. The court heard he used what appeared to be a six-inch “zombie knife” to stab one of the victims in the shoulder and slash at another.

Two other teenagers — HAYDN BLOCKWELL, 18, of James Street, Hakin, and HAYDN ASHTON, 19, of Larch Road, Milford Haven — also admitted their roles in the incident by pleading guilty to affray.

Prosecutor Helen Randall told the court that the victims were initially threatened while crossing Victoria Bridge, as the defendants shouted from a passing car: “We’ll stab you up” and “We’ll shut you up”.

Shortly afterwards, the vehicle returned and stopped near the McDonald’s. All three defendants got out. Brown, wearing a balaclava, punched one of the men before drawing a knife from his waistband and slashing at another victim while yelling: “I’ll slice you.”

The victim sustained cuts to his torso and fingers before being stabbed in the shoulder. He did not immediately realise he had been stabbed and only sought medical help after returning home.

Blockwell, who was unarmed, followed one of the victims shouting threats, while Ashton was said to be carrying a metal pole. All three fled the scene laughing after the stabbing, the court was told.

Police arrested the defendants shortly afterwards. Phone evidence showed that the driver — who has not been charged in connection with the violence — searched online for legal advice about stabbing

incidents and exchanged messages with Ashton discussing what they might tell police.

Brown also admitted criminal damage after carving his initials into a police cell door.

Judge Huw Rees sentenced Brown to three years and two months in a Young Offender Institution. Blockwell was handed a 16-month term but was released immediately due to time served on remand. Ashton received a 13-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, and must complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Brown had previous youth cautions for possession of a bladed article and common assault. The court heard that all three defendants expressed remorse for their actions.

Car fire closes Market Street in Haverfordwest

FIREFIGHTERS were called to tackle a vehicle blaze in the centre of Haverfordwest on Monday afternoon (May 19).

The incident occurred at around 2:50pm on Market Street, where a car

was reported to be alaze.

A crew from Haverfordwest Fire Station responded swiftly and brought the fire under control within half an hour. The road was temporarily closed while emergency services dealt with the situation.

A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 2:51pm, firefighters from Haverfordwest attended a car fire on Market Street. The vehicle was well alight on arrival.

One hose reel jet, a thermal imaging camera, small tools and a breathing apparatus set were used to extinguish the blaze.

“The crew left the scene at 3:24pm.” No injuries were reported.

Milford woman to stand trial over assaults and criminal damage

A MILFORD HAv EN woman is due to stand trial at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (May 22) charged with two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and two counts of criminal damage.

Karen Harper, aged 57, of Marble Hall Close, Milford Haven, is accused of assaulting two individuals during

an incident on March 18 this year in Milford Haven.

Harper is alleged to have assaulted Jane Annettes, causing actual bodily harm, and also faces a separate charge of criminal damage after reportedly destroying a £100 necklace belonging to Ms Annettes during the same incident.

In a further charge relating to

the same day, Harper is accused of assaulting Lee Dimmick, also causing actual bodily harm.

She has also been convicted of criminal damage to a DyfedPowys Police vehicle, admitting to damaging the cage door of a police van following her arrest. That charge was dealt with at an earlier hearing, but sentencing was adjourned to be

considered alongside the remaining matters.

All offences are alleged to have taken place on March 18 and were previously adjourned from March 20 for a trial to be held.

The trial is scheduled to begin at 10:00am at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Court reporter

MCAuley BrOWn

Withyhedge Landfill permit consultation now open to public

NATURAL RESOURCES

WALES has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the environmental permit for Withyhedge Landfill in Pembrokeshire.

Resources Management UK Ltd has submitted a variation application (ref: PAN-025929) to modify its existing permit (EPR/MP3330WP) under the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.

The proposed changes include:

Revised final restoration levels

• Updates to the management and monitoring of groundwater, surface water, and leachate

• Permission to accept an additional 50,000 tonnes of waste soils per year for restoration purposes under a new waste recovery activity

• A consolidated and modernised version of the existing permit, including a review of current Improvement and Pre-operational Conditions

NRW says it recognises the high level of public interest in the site and is committed to an open and transparent process.

Huwel Manley, Head of South West

of the application, such as emission controls, potential impacts on health and the environment, and waste management practices on site.

online consultation hub: https://bit.ly/ WithyhedgePermitVariation.

Operations for NRW, said:

“We understand the sensitivity of Withyhedge Landfill to the local community and are committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be heard. This consultation allows us to gather views that will help inform our decisionmaking, and I encourage anyone with an interest to take part.”

The consultation will focus on environmental and technical aspects

However, NRW emphasised that certain issues — including traffic, site location, land use, visual impact, access, and operating hours — fall under the remit of the local planning authority and cannot be considered as part of this process.

The consultation is open until Friday, 20 June, 2025. Members of the public can review the application and submit comments via NRW’s

Documents can also be accessed through NRW’s public register. Hard copies are available on request by contacting NRW’s Customer Service Centre on 0300 065 3000 or emailing: enquiries@naturalresourceswales. gov.uk. Charges may apply.

At the end of the consultation and technical review, NRW will publish its decision on whether the permit variation will be granted and explain how public feedback has been considered.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Habitual cocaine supplier jailed following Neyland drugs raid

A PROLIFIC county line cocaine dealer has been jailed following a police raid carried out in Neyland .

This week Swansea Crown Court heard how 22-year-old Marcel Mullins has previous convictions for supplying heroin and crack cocaine in Cambridgeshire and Staffordshire, however in March of this year, he turned his attention to Pembrokeshire.

On March 27 he was found asleep inside a property at College Park, Neyland, after police officers executed the raid on suspicion that the house was being used for the supply of Category A drugs.

There they discovered Mullins together with £1,740 in cash, a bum bag containing cannabis, a weighing scales containing traces of cocaine, snap bags and two mobile phones which had been snapped in half. Despite the phones’ condition, police investigations showed they were linked to a number ending in ‘999’ that had been extensively used for distributing messages concerning the trafficking of drugs. The same number was also found on Mullins’ personal mobile phone together with evidence that he had been dealing in cannabis and cocaine.

Mullins, of no fixed abode, was arrested, but remained silent during his police interview. On March 30 he

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

was charged with supplying cocaine, supplying cannabis and being in possession of criminal property, namely £1,740 in cash. He subsequently pleaded guilty to all three charges.

On Monday, May 19, Mullins appeared in Swansea Crown Court via a video link from Swansea Prison where he he been remanded since his arrest.

“The severity of this has now fallen

Banned after been twice over limit

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has been banned from driving after being caught behind the wheel while twice the legal alcohol limit.

Jonathan Goodrick, 37, was stopped by police at around 7:00pm on May 3 while driving his Volvo through Templebar. Officers carried out a routine stop check and detected alcohol on his breath.

“This wasn’t the result of bad driving, but just a stop check,” Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

A roadside breath test proved positive, and further analysis at the police station revealed Goodrick had 70 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Goodrick, a father of two, pleaded guilty to the drink-driving charge. His solicitor,

Awen Harries, said he had consumed two pints of alcohol after picking up friends in Saundersfoot.

“He chose to drive as he didn’t think he would be over the limit,” she said. “This has been a learning curve for him.”

Ms Harries told the court that Goodrick, of Milton Terrace, Pembroke Dock, is still recovering from a serious road traffic collision in 2023 and has since been registered as disabled. His role as a mechanical supervisor is reliant on his ability to drive.

“He is disappointed to be before the court today and wishes to apologise,” she added.

Magistrates disqualified Goodrick from driving for 17 months. He was fined £178 and ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £71 victim surcharge.

Scrap metal collector’s ‘disastrous’ decision

A DECISION to drive onto the Pembroke Dock to Rosslare ferry route after consuming alcohol has been described in court as a “complete and utter disaster” for Cardiff man Charles O’Brien.

The 39-year-old was stopped by police on May 3 and tested positive during a roadside breath test. He was taken to Haverfordwest police station for further analysis.

“But he was unable to blow long enough for the machine to register,” Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies told Haverfordwest magistrates this week. “As a result, he failed to provide a specimen for analysis.”

O’Brien, of Grangetown, Cardiff, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen. He was represented by solicitor Michael Kelleher.

“This was a complete and utter disaster,” said Mr Kelleher. “He took his vehicle into the restricted port area. While it is not open to general members of the public, the offence still applies.”

The court heard that O’Brien is selfemployed as a scrap metal collector.

Magistrates disqualified him from driving for 12 months. He was also fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £32 victim surcharge.

on his shoulders, and he regrets ever becoming involved in drugs,” said his barrister, Caitlin Brazel, KC.

“But now he must face the consequences.”

Imposing sentence, Judge Huw Rees said Mullins was ‘wasting his youthful years’ by his persistent dealing of category A drugs.

“You’ve spent your adult life trading in heroin and crack cocaine in different parts of the country, which means you’re a habitual supplier of serious

drugs,” he said.

“You’re simply wasting your youthful years in custody.

“If you carry on in this way, your sentences will simply get longer and longer. And the proof of that is today.”

Mullins was sentenced to 2,045 days in prison, which amounts to just under five years and eight months.

A forfeiture and destruction order was imposed on the mobile phones and the £1,740 of cash that was found on him during the police raid.

West Wales cannabis farm cultivators back in court

THREE men jailed for growing vast levels of cannabis at a disused school in West Wales have returned to court in a legal effort to recover and confiscate their criminal assets.

Njazi Gjana, 27, Ervin Gjana, 24, and Armeld Troski, 29, returned to Swansea Crown Court on Monday afternoon to face the Proceeds of Crime Act proceedings after they were convicted of growing cannabis at the former primary school in Llandysul.

A police raid carried out in November 2024, discovered a large-scale and highly sophisticated operation at the purposely modified school, where cannabis, worth up to £620,000 was being cultivated across three floors.

Following their conviction in January of this year, Troski is serving a custodial sentence of three years and four months while Njazi and Ervin Gjana were both sentenced to two years and six months.

This week the trio re-appeared before Judge Huw Rees where they were legally unrepresented. Following the Judge’s ruling, the matter was adjourned to enable the trio to seek legal representation.

“I hope they realise that I’m doing this in fairness to them,” commented Judge Rees.

The matter will now proceed at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, May 23.

Man assaulted partner during pub row over drugs

A HAvERFORDWEST man assaulted his partner during a night out after she told him he could not take drugs, a court has heard.

Swansea Crown Court was told that Kieran Vaughan and his partner had gone out for lunch and drinks on March 8 when the incident took place.

Prosecutor Georgia Donohue said that while they were out socialising, Vaughan was approached by another person and began discussing drugs. When his partner told him he was not to take any drugs that evening, tensions escalated.

The pair moved on to another pub, where an argument broke out. During the dispute, Vaughan grabbed his partner’s hand and tried to pull her engagement ring off her finger.

She later attended A&E with pain in her arm. Although no fracture was found, she was believed to have suffered a sprained wrist. She left the hospital before receiving treatment.

Vaughan was arrested later that day and initially denied any assault. He was originally charged with several offences including assault

occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of strangulation, assault by beating, controlling and coercive behaviour, and sending a threatening message.

However, all charges except the ABH were later dropped after the victim withdrew her support for the prosecution and indicated she wanted to resume the relationship.

Vaughan, aged 37 and of Caradoc Place, subsequently pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of assault by beating. The prosecution accepted the plea.

The court heard that Vaughan has 27 previous convictions for 44 offences and was already subject to a community order at the time of the assault.

Defending, Jon Tarrant said his client had spent the equivalent of four months in custody on remand and had been aware the complainant no longer supported the case before he entered his guilty plea.

Sentencing, Judge Huw Rees imposed a four-month prison term, meaning Vaughan would be released immediately under standard prison

release arrangements.

The existing community order remains in force.

“There is a lot of work for you to do,” Judge Rees told him.

Community concern reignites over Caradoc Place address

Following Vaughan’s release, concerns have resurfaced among neighbours in the Furzy Park and Caradoc Place area of Haverfordwest, where both he and his partner reside.

Six residents have previously written to housing association ATEB demanding action over ongoing disturbances at the address, citing antisocial behaviour, threats, and intimidation.

One neighbour told The Herald this on Friday evening: “He is back at the house. We are all worried. The police told us nothing—he just turned up.”

In March, the situation prompted a major police response after an incident at the property led to the arrest of a woman. At that time, neighbours described chaotic scenes as the arrest unfolded, with one mother, Yana Gencheva, tearfully recounting how

the stress was affecting her autistic daughter.

Another neighbour, Jan Davies, who has lived in Caradoc Place for over a decade, said in a letter to ATEB: “It’s currently impossible to live in Caradoc Place. We are not enjoying retirement—we’re living in fear in our own homes.”

The Herald has contacted ATEB again for comment on the renewed anxiety in the community following Vaughan’s return.

A paedophile who meticulously planned sex offences against young girls has been jailed.

A 60-YEAR-OLD “determined paedophile” who was operating in west Wales has been sentenced to six years and seven months in prison for sex offences against girls as young as nine years old.

Steven Loveridge of Ystalyfera, near Swansea, was charged with two counts of indecent exposure, two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and a further three counts of possessing indecent images of children.

Loveridge pleaded guilty to all seven charges including the possession of 469 indecent images of children, with 82 of them being Category A images – the most serious rating for such offences.

Described by the prosecution as a “determined paedophile who has an entrenched sexual interest in young girls”, Loveridge was sentenced to six years and seven months in prison when he appeared at Swansea Crown Court today. He will also serve a further six years on license at the end of his custodial sentence.

The full extent of Loveridge’s depravity began to unfold when, upon arrest, he was found to be in possession of two multi-coloured dice along with a pack of modified playing cards.

In a shocking account of calculated offending, the court heard how Loveridge would use the dice and cards as part of a game to dictate the nature of his offending and the age of his victims – which were always children.

It was told how certain colours on the dice would correspond to certain age groups of children, and the cards signalled which predatory action he intended to carry out.

A chilling audio recording downloaded as evidence from the defendant’s phone indicated that the blue colour represented an age he referred to as ‘playgroup age’.

The playing cards were marked with words such as ‘kids’, ‘parents’, ‘follow’, ‘stop’, ‘pursuing’, ‘girl incoming’ and were used along with the dice as part of his disturbing game.

Searches of the defendant’s property and digital devices found annotated maps of local areas where he could encounter children, including playing fields, parks, and schools.

Further screenshots of digital maps were found to be marked with possible escape routes and the locations of known CCTV cameras.

Digital forensic examinations found internet searches for the start and finish times of schools in his local area, revealing how the timing, location, targeting and nature of his offending was pre-mediated to a startling degree.

Sentencing him to six years and seven months in prison at Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (May 22), Judge Catherine Richards said: “Your sexual interest in young children has existed since 2007. In

recent years, you have been building up to contact sexual offences with meticulous planning. There is currently, plainly, further risk of you committing specified sexual offences, and a significant risk of you causing serious harm as a result.”

The 60-year-old was first arrested on Monday 9 December 2024, following a report of indecent exposure against two young girls, aged 12 and 13, inside the Home Bargains store in Ystradgynlais on Sunday 8 December 2024.

The court heard how Loveridge masturbated as he followed the girls around the shop, before exposing his penis to them, asking if they wanted to touch it. The girls immediately reported the incident to an adult in the store and Loveridge quickly left the scene.

A formal report was made to DyfedPowys Police and officers shared CCTV footage with neighbouring forces to identify the suspect. South Wales Police believed this to be the same man they were looking for in relation to a similar incident involving a nine-year-old girl at the Asda store in Ystalyfera just the week before.

On Monday 9 December 2024, Loveridge was arrested in Ystradgynlais on suspicion of indecent exposure and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was swiftly charged and remanded into custody.

Appearing at Swansea Crown Court on 13 January 2025, Loveridge pleaded guilty to the offences committed against the 12 and 13-year-olds in Ystradgynlais and the nine-year-old in Ystalyfera.

Commenting on the evidence seized from Loveridge’s home and his digital devices, officer in case, DC Andy Leonard said: “The handwritten notes and audio recordings made by Steven Loveridge himself suggest that the offences he committed against the young girls in are just a glimpse of what this monster could be capable of.

“While the offences he has been sentenced for today are hideous enough alone, I believe the timing of his arrest was critical to preventing the escalation of his dangerous and criminal behaviour. The reality is, we don’t know how far Loveridge would have gone to satisfy his heinous sexual desires if he wasn’t behind bars today.”

Further digital investigations carried out in early 2025 uncovered a disturbing library of sexually explicit and abusive images of children that were dated as early as 2007.

While remanded in custody, Loveridge was further charged with the possession of indecent images of children and pleaded guilty at Merthyr Magistrates Court on Friday 4 April.

In addition to his custodial sentence, Loveridge has been issued with a 15-year restraining order and will be made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order

drafted by Dyfed-Powys Police’s Legal Services team.

Officer in case, DC Andy Leonard continued: “I would like to thank the victims and their families for their courage and support during the investigation. I hope that today’s sentence and the orders in place against Mr Loveridge provide a sense of justice and that they can feel safer knowing he is in prison. Every child should be able to feel safe in their community and not have to live with the fear of offenders like Mr Loveridge.

“The investigation demonstrated excellent collaborative work from

colleagues in Dyfed-Powys Police across multiple departments from the arrest, building the case, bringing the offender to justice and work to draft the Sexual Harm Prevention Order. I would like to thank colleagues from South Wales for their support in the investigation and the CPS for their support and guidance throughout this complex investigation.

“I hope today’s sentence will be of some reassurance to the community and sends a clear message to perpetrators that crime against children is abhorrent, and that we as police will find the perpetrators and seek justice for the children involved.”

Crew welcomed with bacon rolls after rescue

ANGLE RNLI lifeboat crew were paged in the early hours of Wednesday morning (May 22) to assist a lone sailor aboard a 25ft yacht that had suffered engine failure south of Grassholm Island.

The alarm was raised at 3:23am after the yacht, which had been drifting for hours without power, became a concern due to the sailor’s increasing exhaustion. The all-weather lifeboat launched swiftly and reached the casualty vessel approximately 35 minutes later.

After assessing the situation, the crew deemed the safest option was to establish a tow. A line was passed and the vessel was taken under tow towards Milford Haven — a journey which took around three hours.

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At the entrance to Milford Marina, the crew established an alongside tow to guide the yacht safely through the lock. The vessel was brought alongside without incident, and the sailor was left safe and well.

The crew returned to Angle station, where the lifeboat was refuelled and made ready for service again by 8:45am.

In a much-appreciated gesture, staff at the Lord Nelson Hotel in Milford Haven were waiting with hot bacon rolls for the tired crew — a small but welcome reward after a long and challenging rescue.

Two-vehicle crash closes A4076 for over two hours

THE A4076 was closed for more than two hours following a crash between Haverfordwest and Johnston on Tuesday afternoon (May 20).

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 1:35pm following reports of a two-vehicle collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the road was shut to allow for vehicle recovery, with the closure lasting until approximately 3:45pm.

A spokesperson for the force said:

“Dyfed-Powys Police attended a report of a two-vehicle road traffic collision on the A4076 between Haverfordwest and Johnston at around 1:35pm on Tuesday, 20 May. The road was closed for vehicle recovery and was reopened at around 3:45pm. No injuries were reported.”

Traffic returned to normal following the reopening of the road.

Cops launch appeal for information after beach-side assault in Tenby

POLICE are appealing for information following an earlymorning assault near North Beach in Tenby.

The incident happened at around 1:30am on Saturday (May 17) on The Croft, near Croft Court, overlooking the popular beach.

Officers are searching for a man in connection with the assault. He is described as being approximately 6ft 2in tall, of slim build, with mediumlength dark brown hair. At the time,

he was wearing a red top and was accompanied by a yellow Labradortype dog.

Dyfed-Powys Police are urging anyone who may have seen the incident or who has information that could assist the investigation to come forward. Information can be reported online via https://orlo.uk/kMmSw, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101.

Those making contact are asked to quote crime reference 25000406189.

Whitland farmers face animal welfare and ID charges

A 79-YEAR-OLD farmer from Whitland is facing a string of serious animal welfare and regulatory charges following an investigation at Penycraig Farm in Carmarthenshire.

Thomas Raymond Jones, of The Flats, St John Street, Whitland, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Friday (May 16), where he pleaded guilty to two offences and not guilty to a further fourteen.

Martha Christine Randell of Tawelan, Bronwydd Road, Carmarthen was also charged with the same set of offences and leaded the same way.

The charges, brought by Carmarthenshire County Council, stem from alleged breaches of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013, the Cattle Identification Regulations 2007, and the Animal By-Products (Enforcement) (Wales) Regulations 2014.

Among the most serious allegations, Mr Jones and Mrs Randell are accused of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog by failing to provide a suitable environment, proper diet, or medical treatment. He has pleaded not guilty to this offence.

They aer also charged with causing unnecessary suffering to nine lame cattle by failing to obtain veterinary treatment – a second offence under the Animal Welfare Act, to which he also pleaded not guilty.

However, the pair admitted two offences:

• Failing to meet the welfare needs of bovine animals by not providing dry lying areas

Court reporter

and allowing access to a cow carcass.

• Failing to comply with animal by-product regulations by not ensuring the timely removal and secure storage of dead livestock, thus posing a risk to public and animal health.

Additional not guilty pleas were

entered in relation to:

• Failing to provide feed and water to a cow and a calf.

• Obstructing a veterinary inspector during an official visit.

• Failing to keep proper veterinary medicine records.

• Failing to report the deaths and movements of animals and loss of cattle passports.

• Keeping untagged bison, and

• Failing to register two bulls within the required timeframe.

In total, the defendants are facing 16 separate charges. The offences span multiple dates between February and March 2024 and relate to alleged mismanagement of both companion animals and livestock.

Magistrates adjourned the case to June 13 for case management. The defendants, who are represented by Richard Griffiths Solicitors, were excused from attending the next hearing.

Man avoids jail after breaching supervision order

A MILFORD HAvEN man has avoided a custodial sentence after breaching the terms of a post-prison supervision order.

However, in February this year, Roberts failed to attend one of the scheduled meetings, prompting enforcement action.

He appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week and pleaded

Liam Roberts, 32, of Marble Hall Road, was released from custody earlier this year following a 16-week sentence. As part of his release conditions, he was required to attend regular probation appointments until February 2026.

guilty to failing to comply with the supervision requirements.

Defence solicitor Tom Lloyd told the court that Roberts is the primary carer for his mother, who is undergoing treatment for cancer.

“He’s a tremendous source of help to her and she is heavily reliant on him for

day-to-day support,” said Mr Lloyd. “He is now keen to comply fully with the order and re-engage with probation services.”

Magistrates imposed a £60 fine and ordered Roberts to pay £60 in probation enforcement costs.

Narberth woman denies burglary over stolen SD card

A 51-YEAR-OLD woman from Narberth has denied breaking into a family member’s home and stealing an SD card from a camera.

Natalie Lewis is alleged to have

entered a property at Heritage Gardens on the night of November 15, 2023, and taken the memory card.

The value of the item is unknown. Lewis, of Summerhill, Narberth,

appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where she pleaded not guilty to burglary and theft.

She elected for a trial at the Crown Court, and the case was sent to Swansea

Crown Court, where proceedings are due to begin on June 20. Lewis was released on unconditional bail.

Strangulation charge dropped against Pembrokeshire man

A 22-YEAR-OLD man from Haverfordwest has been formally cleared of an allegation that he strangled a woman earlier this year.

Byron Rowlands, of Baring Gould Way, had faced a charge of intentional

strangulation following an alleged incident in the town on 15 February.

He denied the accusation from the outset, and a trial had been scheduled for later this year.

During a previous hearing, his barrister said Rowlands had been

clear that the incident “did not happen”.

However, the case was brought back before Swansea Crown Court after a review was triggered by a bail application.

Prosecutor Regan Walters

confirmed that no further evidence would be offered against Rowlands. Judge Catherine Richards recorded a not guilty verdict and told the defendant he would be released. “This concludes the matter,” she said.

Fined for driving without any insurance or licence

A HAvERFORDWEST man has been fined after driving a friend’s car without a valid licence or insurance.

Dyer Dastom, 23, was stopped by police on May 3 while driving through Market Street, Haverfordwest. Checks revealed he was not driving in accordance with the terms of his provisional licence, rendering the vehicle uninsured.

Dastom, of Dew Street, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he pleaded guilty to driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and driving without third party insurance.

The case was heard with the assistance of a Farsi interpreter, as Farsi is the official language of Iran.

Addressing the court, Dastom said: “I’ve never been to court before, and I appreciate the police work and the work that everyone is doing here. I’m not going to do this kind of thing again, and I’m not going to be coming to court again.”

Magistrates fined Dastom £120 and endorsed his licence with six penalty points. He was also ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £48 victim services surcharge.

Oil rig worker taken off road

AN OIL rig fabricator has been banned from driving after being caught over the legal alcohol limit while behind the wheel in Pembroke Dock.

Police were called to Bush Street shortly before 11:00pm on May 2, after a member of the public reported concerns about a black van being driven erratically.

“They’d seen a black van pull out very fast and stop at the kebab shop,” Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies told Haverfordwest magistrates this week. “The driver was then seen banging on the door and was obviously drunk.”

Officers arrived to find 37-yearold Peter Sykes, who admitted he was driving the Ford van. A roadside breath test was positive, and a further test at the police station revealed 86 microgrammes of alcohol in 100

millilitres of breath – more than double the legal limit of 35.

Sykes, of Salamander Close, Grimsby, pleaded guilty to driving while over the alcohol limit and chose to represent himself in court.

“It was stupid,” he told magistrates. “I had problems at home and there’s nothing more I can say. It was stupid and I shouldn’t have done it.”

He explained that he works as a fabricator at oil refineries across the UK and Europe. “My boss said he’ll try and keep me in work, but if the disqualification affects my job, I’ll have to hand in my notice,” he added.

Magistrates disqualified Sykes from driving for 20 months. He was fined £3,500 and ordered to pay a £200 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.

Woman spared jail after drunken assault on two police officers

A PEMBROKESHIRE woman battling a complex range of mental health issues has narrowly avoided prison after spitting at and assaulting two police officers while heavily intoxicated.

Elisha Callen, 25, of Glenview Avenue, Pembroke Dock, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week for sentencing after admitting two counts of assaulting emergency workers and being drunk and disorderly in a public place.

The court heard that on April 21, Callen was found in a severely intoxicated state on Larch Road, Milford Haven. Officers attempted to

calm her, but she became increasingly aggressive.

“She was told to behave herself, but she failed,” said Crown Prosecutor Dennis Davies.

Following her arrest, Callen lashed out at officers at the station—striking one and spitting in the face of another.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, one of the officers said: “As a police officer, we expect to face conflict on a daily basis, but I don’t expect to be spat on by someone I’ve never met before.”

Callen later told officers she had no recollection of the incident.

Her solicitor, Tom Lloyd, urged

magistrates to impose a suspended sentence, arguing she had significant mental health issues and was engaging with support services.

“Letting her attempt to seek help on her own hasn’t worked,” he said. “If you look at the marks on her neck and hands, you can see this is someone with far more going on than just anxiety and depression.”

“This is an individual with complex needs who is extremely upset by what happened and wants to apologise to every officer involved,” he added.

Magistrates imposed an 18-week custodial sentence, suspended for 24 months. Callen must also comply with

a mental health treatment requirement, attend 25 rehabilitation activity days with drug and alcohol support, and complete a 120-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement.

“I can’t emphasise enough that this is your last chance,” the presiding magistrate warned. “You’ve come that close to custody.”

Callen was also ordered to pay £85 costs, a £154 victim surcharge, and £100 in compensation to each of the two officers.

As she left court, Callen said: “Thank you so much. This won’t happen again. I just need support.”

Death at Pembroke Dock property sparks police probe – arrests made

A HEAvY police presence was seen on Glenview Avenue, Pembroke Dock on Tuesday evening (May 20) after emergency services were called to a medical emergency at a residential property.

Multiple police units and ambulances responded to the scene at around 7:30pm. Officers remained at the location throughout the night. It has now been confirmed that one person sadly died at the property. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Next of kin and HM Coroner have been informed.

In a statement issued to The Herald on Wednesday afternoon

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(May 21), Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Officers were called to assist paramedics following a report of a medical emergency at a property on Glenview Avenue, Pembroke Dock at around 7:30pm on Tuesday (May 20). Sadly, one person died at the scene.”

“Three people have been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

“They remain in police custody.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death.”

Magistrates decline jurisdiction in Pembroke Dock Samurai sword case

A MAN has appeared before magistrates charged with brandishing a Samurai sword in an alleged street fight in Pembroke Dock town centre.

Michel Valmont, 47, was arrested on June 15, 2024, after police were called to a fracas in Pembroke Street. The Crown claims that officers discovered Valmont in possession of a sharp pointed weapon, namely a samurai sword.

This week he appeared before

Haverfordwest magistrates where he entered no pleas to being in possession of the samurai sword and a second charge of affray by using threatening violence towards another person.

Given the seriousness of the alleged offences, magistrates declined jurisdiction and the case will now proceed at Swansea Crown Court on June 20.

Valmont, of Water Street, Pembroke Dock, was released on unconditional bail.

Man sentenced after drug-fuelled outburst

A HAvERFORDWEST man who subjected his wife to a torrent of verbal abuse during a drug-fuelled outburst has been sentenced by magistrates.

Michael Tomlin, 40, of Coronation Avenue, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week after previously pleading guilty to a string of offences.

The court heard how Tomlin’s behaviour spiralled after taking crack cocaine, nitrous oxide and amphetamine. His wife, speaking through a victim impact statement, described the effect of the incident on her family.

“This was the worst I’ve ever seen him,” she said. “It made me feel embarrassed for us as a family.”

Prosecutor Dennis Davies told the court that police were called to the couple’s address following a disturbance.

“He called her a fat bitch, amongst other things,” he said. “As a result, he finds himself before the court today.”

Tomlin admitted the following offences: possession of crack cocaine; possession of nitrous oxide with intent to inhale; possession of 2.95 grams of amphetamine; using threatening and abusive language likely to cause

alarm, harassment or distress to his wife; failing to stop for a police officer on Back Lane, Haverfordwest; driving without insurance; driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence; and failing to attend a drugs assessment after testing positive for cocaine.

His solicitor, Tom Lloyd, said Tomlin was ready to turn his life around.

“There is another side to this defendant,” he said. “He’s a good father and wants to address his issues with the support of a Community Order.”

Magistrates sentenced Tomlin to a 12-month community order, including 20 rehabilitation activity days, a 12-month drug rehabilitation requirement, and a 120-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement. A forfeiture and destruction order was made in relation to the drugs seized. He was also ordered to pay a £134 court surcharge and £65 costs. His driving licence was endorsed with six penalty points.

Sentencing, magistrates told Tomlin: “This is your last chance. You’re very fortunate that your wife has stood by you today. It’s important that you comply with probation. We don’t want to see you in this court again. We wish you luck.”

Week of action launched to tackle knife crime across Wales

POLICE forces across Wales have launched a week of action as part of Operation Sceptre — the national campaign aimed at reducing knife crime.

Running from Monday (May 19) to Sunday (May 25), the initiative involves a coordinated effort by neighbourhood policing teams, who will be visiting retailers to provide guidance on legislation and encourage staff to challenge underage attempts to purchase knives.

The campaign also offers members of the public a safe and anonymous way to dispose of knives and bladed articles. Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the following police stations will accept voluntary surrenders throughout the week:

• Llangunnor Road, Carmarthen

• Old Castle Road, Llanelli

• Boulevard St. Brieuc, Aberystwyth

• Parc Teifi, Cardigan

• Merlins Hill, Haverfordwest

• Park Lane, Newtown

A police spokesperson said: “This is part of our ongoing commitment to remove knives from our communities and reduce the risk of harm. While the vast majority of people do not carry knives, the impact of even one incident can be devastating.”

Residents are also urged not to donate unwanted knives to charity shops. Instead, they can safely dispose of them in designated metal bins at local recycling centres.

Anyone concerned that someone they know may be carrying a knife is encouraged to report it — either to the police directly, to a trusted adult, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Country sportsman loses gun licence after drug-driving conviction

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has been forced to surrender his firearms licence after testing positive for a cocaine derivative while behind the wheel.

Shane Beynon, 50, was stopped by police on Clay Lane, Hundleton, on November 8, 2024. Subsequent tests revealed 240 micrograms of

benzoylecgonine – a cocaine metabolite – in his system. The legal limit is 50.

This week, Beynon, of Hean Castle, Saundersfoot, pleaded guilty to drugdriving when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates.

“He doesn’t take cocaine and is very surprised this was found in his system,” said defence solicitor Michael Kelleher.

“He’d been out the night before, but he accepts that no one is going to come to court and say they spiked his drink.”

Mr Kelleher told the court that the mandatory driving ban would have a significant impact on Beynon, both professionally and personally.

“He is a self-employed fencing contractor who relies on his vehicle, and

he’s also a keen shooter. As a result of this charge, he’s had to surrender his firearms to the police,” he added. “The future is very uncertain for him.”

Magistrates disqualified Beynon from driving for 12 months. He was fined £300 and ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £120 victim surcharge.

Welsh Labour Government invests £10 million to revitalise Pembrokeshire towns

TOWNS across Pembrokeshire are being backed by more than £10 million of Welsh Government investment as part of efforts to breathe new life into local high streets and boost the economy.

Since 2021, the Welsh Labour Government has provided £10,050,000 to Pembrokeshire County Council through the Transforming Towns programme, funding key regeneration projects including the Western Quayside development in Haverfordwest and the South Quay project in Pembroke.

The latest funding figures were released following the Welsh Government’s announcement last week of a further £31.5 million for the Transforming Towns fund in 2024/25. Councils across Wales can now bid for this year’s funding, with an additional £10.8 million earmarked for four local authorities in South West Wales in 2025/26.

The Transforming Towns programme aims to help local authorities regenerate town centres and create vibrant, sustainable places. Since its launch in 2020, the programme has delivered more than £314 million in grant and loan funding across all 22 Welsh local authorities.

In Pembrokeshire, the funding has already supported the Western Quayside redevelopment at the site of the former Ocky White’s department store in Haverfordwest. The scheme will deliver new restaurant and leisure facilities, complementing the town’s existing retail offering on Bridge Street and Riverside Quay.

The council has also purchased

the Riverside Shopping Centre in Haverfordwest for future redevelopment and is progressing the South Quay regeneration project in Pembroke, located beside the iconic Pembroke Castle.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said: “Transforming Towns isn’t just a

snappy slogan or government jargon – it’s real investment going directly to communities who know how best to renew their local areas. Working in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council, we’re helping bring new life to the county’s historic town centres.”

Labour Senedd Member for Mid and West Wales, Joyce Watson MS, added: “Our towns and high streets are the beating hearts of our

communities. They provide jobs, attract visitors, and grow the local economy – helping put money back into people’s pockets.”

Pembrokeshire MS and First Minister Eluned Morgan also welcomed the investment: “The £10 million already provided by the Welsh Labour Government has helped transform key local sites. These projects will protect and enhance our towns for future generations to enjoy.”

Streetscape improvement funding scheme deadline extended

INTERESTED businesses in eligible towns have until 30th June to apply for a shop frontage grant scheme via the 2025 Shared Prosperity Fund programme.

The new Street Enhancement Scheme is aimed at commercial properties in the town centre zones of Fishguard and Goodwick, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke, Pembroke Dock and Tenby.

Eligible owners and tenants/ leaseholders with written consent from the property owner can apply for a

grant of 80 per cent, up to a maximum grant value of £24,999, towards to total expenditure of upgrading external facades.

This new grant scheme is an extension to the previous paint scheme enhancement element for commercial properties which is continuing within the town centre zones of the above towns, and for St Davids, Saundersfoot, Narberth, Crymych and Newport.

It has also been successfully delivered in a number of our County’s towns.

The paint scheme enhancement will provide funding for 80% of the costs, up to a maximum grant value of £4,999, towards the repainting of street facing façade(s).

The aim of the grant is to help improve the attractiveness of our town centres and encourage footfall to support businesses.

Eligible works include replacement of signage, window and other building elements replacement or cleaning, external facade repairs and decoration.

This new grant scheme will run alongside the existing paint scheme

which will be continuing.

The last date for receipt of applications under this call for projects is 30th June, and works must be able to be completed by 31st October 2025. No expenditure should be incurred before grant approval, as the grants cannot be awarded retrospectively.

For more information and full scheme guidance see: https://www. pembrokeshire.gov.uk/uk-sharedprosperity-funding/pembrokeshirestreetscape-enhancement-scheme or via email to spfstreetenhancement@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk

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Vandalism at Narberth’s old library sparks concern

THE OLD library building in Narberth has been targeted by vandals ahead of its planned auction, prompting concerns from a senior Pembrokeshire councillor.

The incident, which occurred on Friday, April 26, saw the former library on St James Street broken into and damaged. The property, which has stood derelict for some time, is due to be sold by auction through John Francis.

Cllr Marc Tierney, Cabinet Member for Young People, Communities and the Wellbeing of Future Generations, said the intruders appeared to have forced entry by kicking in a side door, smashing glass panels and windows in the process.

Inside the building, crockery was destroyed and graffiti daubed across the walls.

Cllr Tierney said: “We’re all facing stretched budgets at the moment, and damage like this simply adds to the cost burden on the taxpayer. It’s very disappointing—this is an iconic building in the heart of Narberth, and it’s upsetting to see it treated in this way.”

The Herald understands this is the first time the old library has been vandalised. Pembrokeshire County Council is now increasing security at the

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site while the sale process continues. There is concern the incident may be part of a wider trend of people targeting derelict buildings. Cllr Tierney warned: “There seems to be a craze at the moment for people to break into old properties and mess about. It’s not just illegal—it’s dangerous and irresponsible, especially in a residential area.”

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed they are investigating the matter.

A spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a burglary and vandalism at the old library on St James Street, Narberth, on April 26. Officers attended and identified broken windows and graffiti inside the vacant building. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Cllr Tierney also posted on social media following the incident, describing the damage as a blow to the local community and calling for those responsible to be held accountable.

He added that he hoped the building could still serve a useful purpose in future, saying: “While it is due to be sold, I’d like to think there is still a chance for this site to play a positive role in the town again.”

Cllr Marc Tierney,

Paddle-out protest sees 200 take to the water in Broad Haven

BROAD HAvEN was the scene of a dramatic demonstration on Saturday (May 17) as around 200 swimmers, surfers, and paddleboarders took to the sea in protest against sewage pollution.

The “Paddle Out Protest” was part of a nationwide campaign coordinated by Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), with similar events taking place at over 40 coastal locations across the UK. It marked a growing wave of public anger over sewage discharges into rivers and bathing waters.

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In Pembrokeshire, the Broad Haven protest was the flagship event for Wales. Campaigners gathered on the beach from midday, taking part in placard-making and a community beach clean before heading into the water at around 2:30pm for a mass paddle-out.

Organisers said the message was clear: enough is enough.

“This is about protecting our beaches, our wildlife, and our health,” said Kate Beardsmore, one of the local organisers. “We’re not just making noise – we’re demanding accountability from the water companies and from the government.”

Speakers at the event included Sian Richardson, founder of the Bluetits cold-water swimming movement, and Sue Burton, Marine Conservation Officer for Pembrokeshire. Both stressed the importance of clean water for local communities and the wider ecosystem.

The event ended with live music, food, and speeches at Rwts, formerly Sunshine Italian, overlooking the bay.

The protest comes amid growing scrutiny of the UK’s water companies, which have faced criticism for repeated sewage discharges and underinvestment in infrastructure.

Surfers Against Sewage say that public pressure is having an impact, but warned that without continued action, nothing will change.

Photos by Martin Cavaney

Milford Haven mum named one of UK’s most influential people

MILFORD HAvEN campaigner

Nicola Harteveld has been named one of the UK’s Top 100 Most Influential People for 2024—an accolade she kept secret for months to avoid drawing attention away from her team’s work.

The emotional award ceremony took place in Cardiff in March, but Harteveld, 44, only recently shared the news publicly. “I didn’t set out to influence—I set out to survive,” she said, dedicating the award to her daughter Megan, who died by suicide aged 14 after suffering cyberbullying.

“I’m still in disbelief,” Harteveld said as she accepted the award, “but I accept this for Megan, and for everyone in our community who believes in kindness and hope.”

The honour recognises individuals who have made a significant difference in British society. Harteveld was recognised for her work with Megan’s Starr Foundation, an anti-bullying charity she founded in memory of her daughter. The foundation has grown to become a leading grassroots voice on youth mental health in Wales.

Despite the national recognition, Harteveld said she didn’t want the award to overshadow recent projects in her home county. “We were busy opening The Dizzy Bear and our new support centre—that had to be the focus,” she said.

The Dizzy Bear, which opened earlier this year at Milford Waterfront, is more than just a café. Run as a social enterprise by the Megan’s Starr Foundation, it combines food, fun, and a mental health mission. Alongside waffles and street food, the café offers youth training schemes and a safe, welcoming space for those in need. Every purchase helps fund the charity’s free counselling and outreach services for vulnerable young people in Pembrokeshire.

“We’re unBEARlievably proud of what we’ve built,” said a spokesperson for the café. “This is about community, kindness, and giving young people a place to belong.”

Harteveld’s journey from personal tragedy to public impact has inspired people across Wales. Since losing Megan in 2018, she has devoted more than 40 hours a week to the foundation. In 2023, she was named Volunteer of the Year at the Welsh Charity Awards.

The charity’s motto—“Be kind”— comes from a note Megan wrote before her death, and has since sparked a movement in Pembrokeshire schools, encouraging empathy and mental health awareness.

From local coffee mornings to national talks, Harteveld has shared her story to highlight the dangers of bullying and the need for better support. “No young person should feel they have no choice but to end their life,” she said.

Volunteers with Megan’s Starr Foundation include those who’ve faced adversity themselves, offering

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

peer mentorship and lived-experience counselling.

Organisers of the Top 100 Influential People list praised Harteveld’s dedication, saying she had turned heartbreak into hope and was “leading a quiet revolution” in youth mental health.

In Milford Haven, news of her award has been met with an outpouring of local pride. “This may have my name on it,” Harteveld said, “but it belongs to all of us—my team, our supporters, and of course Megan. We are just getting started.”

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 A v ERFORDWEST - 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

Plans for ‘alien’ Tenby harbour gate refused after outcry

COUNCIL plans for ‘alien’ and ‘industrial’ metal gates to prevent vehicle entry on to Tenby’s iconic harbour have been refused by the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Pembrokeshire County Council sought permission to install a swing gate that prevents unauthorised vehicle entry, but allowing pedestrians, at Tenby Harbour Yacht Station & Harbour Office, Pier Hill, Tenby, in the town’s conservation area.

The proposed gates would be sited approximately mid-way along the harbour office.

The scheme included a related listed building consent application covering the harbour ‘pier’.

The scheme was supported by Tenby Town Council but Tenby Civic Society objected due to design, operation, justification and impact on the harbour setting.

A national park officer report recommending refusal said: “Whilst consultees are generally supportive of the proposal, it is not regarded as acceptable in terms of its impact upon the special qualities of the National Park including both character and appearance of Tenby Conservation Area and the setting of listed buildings.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

“Whilst it is recognised that restricting access to the working pier would sustain harbour activities and may contribute to a certain extent to supporting community cohesion and health, the proposal is not considered to conserve or enhance the existing character of the harbour.”

It added: “The design and scale of the gates neither preserve or enhance the character of the area. In terms of character, the pier currently is available for users and visitors to enjoy daily except when during occasional events and operations when temporary fencing is erected. The proposed meshed metal gates are seen as intrusive in this context, quite alien to the public enjoyment of the area.

“Officers have considered the weight to be given to the desirability of restricting access to the working pier and reducing conflicts such as tombstoning activities and conflicts with boats. Temporary fencing has currently been used to achieve this which does not require permission.”

“Due to the industrial design of the

It detailed the scheme: “This application is for the installation of a metal gate on Tenby Pire alongside the Harbour Office to restrict unauthorised access to the end of the pier. The pier itself is Grade-II-listed and the site lies within Tenby Conservation Area central to the iconic harbour view.

gates in what is a highly sensitive and extremely popular area, the proposal is not considered to preserve the setting of the listed pier or the character or appearance of Tenby Conservation Area.

“It therefore follows that there will be an impact on the special qualities of the National Park, that the proposal will cause visual intrusion and that it pays little regard to the sense of place and local distinctiveness.

The application was refused on the grounds it “would introduce an unacceptable visual intrusion due to the overly industrial design of the proposed gates which would not conserve or enhance the existing character of the harbour,” and would “also cause harm to the setting of a listed building”.

Forensic report sheds new light on Llangolman deaths

Expert review challenges original conclusion in Pembrokeshire’s most haunting unsolved case

Griff and Martha/Patti Thomas:

UNSOLvED murders in small communities have particular resonance. They leave echoes, spawn theories, and leave those remaining wondering how well they knew the victims and whether a killer remains undetected amongst them.

MURDERS IN A SMALL TOWN

On April 28, 1996, Constables Jennifer Eastman and Neal Miller were dispatched to a semi-detached residence in Wilmslow, a town known for its quiet affluence and leafy respectability. The task was simple: check on an elderly couple, Howard and Bea Ainsworth, who had not been seen for several days. Concerned neighbours had raised the alarm.

Upon arrival, officers found the rear kitchen door unlatched.

Through a bedroom doorway, a pair of lifeless legs hung from the bed’s edge. The officers entered and were met with a harrowing sight.

Bea Ainsworth had suffered a grisly end. One senior officer later described the scene with blunt force: “She had been butchered. Most of her head was soaked in blood.”

Her husband, Howard, lay beside her, his face shrouded in a plastic bag— dead, seemingly by his own hand.

In November of 1999, another elderly couple—Donald and Auriel Ward— vanished without a word. For days, their house remained eerily untouched. The breakfast table was set. Four days’ worth of newspapers gathered by the door. When concerned friends entered the home, they discovered a bloodstained horror upstairs: both Wards were savagely slain in their beds.

This time, crime scene specialists spoke of “expressive violence”—the kind that tells of rage, not mercy. The scene bore the hallmarks of something deeply personal and disturbingly intense.

In both cases, the coroners’ verdicts were murder-suicide.

The story of subsequent investigations into the cases is in a prize-winning crime journalist’s book, “The Hunt for the Silver

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

AN UNCANNY RESEMBLANCE

The stories of both investigations and attempts to unpick the flaws in them have an uncanny resemblance to the ‘Ffynnon Samson’ murders at Llangolman in the bleak midwinter of 1976.

Griff and Patti Thomas were discovered by the local postman in their shared farmhouse near a small village. They met their end in bizarre circumstances.

Patti had been beaten to death in the sitting room. Griff, who had suffered a serious head injury that exposed his skull, was found burned to death in the kitchen.

The police concluded that Griff, all of five feet three, crippled by spinal arthritis, and with a hand bent and almost unusable, had somehow beaten his sister to death before contriving to somehow kill himself by pulling a heavy settle on top of himself before a fire incinerated him so badly he was barely identifiable.

With their minds made up within twenty-four hours of attending the scene, the police stopped looking or considering evidence that contradicted their theory of the crime. In 1977, a coroner’s inquest found that Griff had killed Patti and met his death in uncertain circumstances.

The local community and those who knew Patti and Griff have always rejected that verdict. An investigation by The Herald revealed serious flaws in the Police investigation. It raised questions about how important evidence that contradicted the investigation officer’s hasty conclusion was glossed over or ignored. Dyfed-Powys Police accepts its original inquiry did not meet professional standards, either at the time or now.

Pembrokeshire’s Welsh-language newspaper, Clebran, has continued to probe the case and obtained a promise from Dyfed Powys Police’s Commissioner that it would be re-examined. That inquiry, Operation Hallam, is still ongoing.

THE FORENSIC EvIDENCE

Investigation methods have changed since 1976, and how the police handle and process evidence is almost unrecognisable. In addition, advances in forensic science have made what seemed slam-dunk convictions unsafe and brought offenders who thought they’d got away with murder before the courts and into prison.

While speculation about what developments in forensic evidence might reveal in notorious cases is rife, a December 2024 forensic report by Stephanie C. Davies, a veteran in death investigation, re-examined the Llangolman case.

She suggests that the evidence never supported the conclusions of the police’s investigation and that Griff Thomas’s reputation as a murderer is a gross miscarriage of justice.

Her review identifies troubling gaps and assumptions in the original inquiry, notably the absence of a clear motive, the unlikelihood of the frail Mr Thomas being able to bludgeon his sister and orchestrate a fire, and the enigmatic presence of a sewing machine smeared with his blood, neatly covered up, as if by someone attempting to hide its use as a weapon.

The crime scene, as re-analysed, bore hallmarks not of domestic discord but of deliberate staging: furniture piled, fires kindled in two rooms, yet only one catching hold.Miss Thomas had injuries consistent with a savage attack, while Mr Thomas suffered blood loss and injuries not fully accounted for in the post-mortem.

A watch stopped at 8:20, a dog vanished without a trace, and signs of struggle in multiple rooms only deepen the unease.

SHORTCOMINGS HIGHLIGHTED

Stephanie Davies’s review of the evidence illuminates the serious flaws in the original investigation.

She contends that the crime scene shows signs of staging by a third party. A key amongst those signs is evidence

of multiple ignition points for the fire at Ffynnon Samson. That, Ms Davies says, demonstrates an element of planning to obscure potential evidence. In addition, the origins of a serious injury to Griff Thomas’s chest were overlooked by the initial investigation. That injury remains unexplained, as do the circumstances in which Mr Thomas aspirated blood. Blood spatter suggests an assault of considerable force and violence, which, Ms Davies suggests, was beyond Griff Thomas’s physical capabilities.

Tellingly, Ms Davies shows how the original forensic timeline was flawed. She says that investigators made inaccurate assumptions about the times of Griff and Patti Thomas’s deaths and the sequence of events within the property on the day they died. Simply put, the evidence does not fit the timing proposed by the original investigation.

Physical evidence suggesting more than one weapon was used on both Griff and Patti Thomas was minimised, overlooked, or actively ignored. The police’s original conclusion that a blood thumbprint on the sewing machine belonged to Griff Thomas, despite there being no other corresponding prints found anywhere at Ffynnon Samson and no way of lifting a print from his charred corpse, is comprehensively debunked. That the cover was replaced on the sewing machine, Stephanie Davies suggests, is a classic indication of an attempt to stage the scene of crime and obscure evidence from detection. Both factors, she says, indicate third-party involvement in the Thomases’ deaths.

POLICE FELL AT THE LAST HURDLE

While Ms Davies praises the 1970s officers for their exhaustive efforts in evidence-gathering, she states that the ultimate conclusion—that no outsider was involved—was based not on proof but on the lack of it. That is a classic error in logic, she contends. The conclusion shaped the evidence instead of the other way around.

Stephanie Davies’s report recommends a new inquest into Mr Thomas’s death and urges a reexamination of any remaining forensic evidence.

In the words of Ms Davies: “Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.”

She states: “My professional opinion is that because the police could not find evidence of third-party involvement, they made potentially unfounded assumptions about the Thomases so that the case could be closed.

“A fresh inquest with a new pathological opinion could provide an opportunity to revisit Mr Thomas’s manner of death, as well as consider evidence that was not previously considered at the first inquest.”

Given the manifest failings of the original investigation, that new inquest cannot come soon enough.

Murderer”.

Hundreds gather in Narberth for colourful Eisteddfod parade and proclamation ceremony

CROWDS lined the streets of Narberth on Saturday (May 17) as a spectacular parade and formal proclamation marked the official countdown to the 2026 National Eisteddfod in Pembrokeshire.

Under blue skies and blazing sunshine, local schoolchildren, Welsh cultural groups, and the Gorsedd of Bards processed through the historic town in a vivid display of colour, tradition, and community spirit. The event, known as the Proclamation Ceremony, is held to formally announce and bless the future Eisteddfod’s location.

Pupils from local schools including Ysgol Arberth and Ysgol Bro Gwaun proudly marched through the town waving flags and banners, while women and girls in traditional lavender dresses carried wildflower bouquets to symbolise peace and heritage.

The Gorsedd of Bards – clad in their iconic white, green and blue robes –followed in solemn procession from the Town Hall to the Proclamation Stone. Accompanied by music and cheering from the gathered crowd, the ceremony culminated with the traditional Gorsedd

rituals, conducted in Welsh, declaring Pembrokeshire as the host county for the 2026 National Eisteddfod.

The high street shops formed a lively backdrop as onlookers waved red dragon flags and cheered in support of Wales’ unique culture and language.

Local councillors, community leaders and Gorsedd officials took part, along with young people chosen to represent the future of Welsh culture. One young girl dressed in ceremonial robes and holding a bouquet smiled as she led part of the procession, with many onlookers describing the atmosphere as “joyful” and “deeply moving.”

A local resident said: “It’s a proud day for Narberth. The sun is shining, the town is full, and it really feels like we’re coming together to celebrate our culture. Roll on 2026!”

The National Eisteddfod – one of Europe’s largest cultural festivals – is due to take place in Pembrokeshire in summer 2026, with preparations now officially underway following today’s proclamation.

Pics: Gareth Davies/Herald

Repair works at historic Narberth mill and restaurant

AN APPLICATION to rebuild a weather-damaged riverside wall at a historic Pembrokeshire mill and museum, now a restaurant, has been approved by national park planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners, Bluestone Resorts Ltd sought permission for the replacement of a collapsed riverside retaining wall at the listed Blackpool Mill, Blackpool Bridge, near Narberth.

A supporting statement through agent Graham Frecknall Architects said: “The property of Black Pool Mill is a Grade-II*-protected heritage asset located on the south bank of the Cleddau River at Blackpool Bridge.

“The property was granted formal planning and listed building consent in 2020 to convert the former museum use to a restaurant with ancillary on site facilities and was opened to the public in July 2023.

“In October 2023 after a spell of

considerable rainfall and high tides, a large portion of the existing stone faced, riverside retaining wall located immediately adjacent to the main mill building and to the rear gable of the store building collapsed into the Cleddau River. In November 2023 following liaison with conservation and NRW officers, temporary works were installed to limit further collapse and/ or erosion of the retaining wall whilst a permanent solution was sought.

“The proposals for the new retaining wall look to re-create the coursed stone façade of the pre-collapsed riverside wall in modern, structural materials, formed and coloured to match the basement stone façade of the main mill building adjacent.”

The restaurant opened in 2023 after William McNamara, CEO of Bluestone National Park Resort, received permission to restore the mill in 2020.

A total of £3 million was spent on

preserving, restoring, and transforming the Georgian building and its grounds.

The 210-year-old mill had been renovated and rebuilt by skilled craftspeople and engineers who have taken care to preserve its historical character.

They installed 53 traditional sash windows that match the classic Georgian architecture, as well as custom-made staircases.

The original milling equipment, including the connecting rods and braces, was also restored to reflect the mill’s industrial history.

The restaurant created 35 new jobs both front and back of house.

An officer report for the latest application, recommending approval, said: “The wall is to be built of pre-cast ‘Redi-roc’ to a traditional batter, the outer facing giving the appearance of coursed rock-faced masonry, the colour to match the masonry of the mill. The wall will be underpinned by a reinforced concrete foundation on bed rock.”

Detailing the mill itself, the report said: “Blackpool Mill, listed Grade II* is a rare and complete survival of a Late Georgian former corn mill, a tall and imposing symmetrical winged group, on the upper tidal reaches of the Eastern Cleddau,” adding: “The site is of archaeological importance, being the site of an iron forge, established in 1760, ceasing production in 1806.”

The latest application, and a related listed building application, was conditionally approved by national park planners.

Narberth Castle site to close for essential conservation repair work

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL says it is pleased to confirm that essential conservation and repair works at Narberth Castle will start on Monday, May 19.

The works are part of a carefully planned conservation programme designed to stabilise the castle’s historic stone walls using specialist mortar bedding techniques, undertaken in accordance with CADW guidance.

Given the sensitive and technical nature of the works, and the need to use tracked access equipment across uneven grassed areas, a full closure of the site to the public will be required for a period of 12 weeks.

This includes the footpath through the site.

This closure will enable contractors to carry out vital repair and stabilisation work safely and effectively.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of August 2025, at which point the entire site will be fully reopened to the public.

Currently, several areas of Narberth Castle remain closed due to structural safety concerns.

While it is fully appreciated that

the summer months are important for tourists and visitors, prolonged dry weather during this period is essential to carry out the specialist conservation works effectively and safely.

These essential works are key to ensuring the long-term preservation of this important heritage site.

Pembrokeshire County Council says it remains committed to keeping the community informed throughout the project and will provide regular updates as the work progresses.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “We apologise for the short notice before this work begins but it is important that we acted as quickly as possible to deliver this project whilst the weather allows it.

“It will mean some inconvenience now, but with the outcome that this important heritage asset remains in good condition for the foreseeable future.

“We thank people in Narberth for their patience on this matter and I am sure they would want to see a safe and accessible cultural asset in their community for the long term.”

Cllr Marc Tierney, the local Councillor for the Narberth Urban ward, added: “Narberth Castle is really important to the people of the town and historically as a place linked to the Mabinogion.

“The delay to repair works has been frustrating, and a continued closure is disappointing. However, I realise that good weather is needed to ensure the repairs hold, which means the Castle will reopen to all in a few months.

“Many local residents have asked how the Castle grounds could be further improved, and this is part of an ongoing conversation that I am having with the Town Council, Pembrokeshire County Council and other interested parties.”

MIKE EDWARDS

AS I sit here on a pleasant spring day, I cannot help but feel the juices rising and the temptation to dig out the old cricket kit and make a comeback.

Thankfully, the missus will have none of it. She reminds me that I lost more teeth and broke more bones playing cricket than I ever did playing rugby. And that was when I was younger and didn’t need glasses to watch the telly. There comes the point in one’s life when the prospect of having delicate facial bones further rearranged by a five-and-a-half-ounce ball of red spite becomes less attractive.

Look what happened to poor old Morris ‘Brains’ Morgan, for example. When I started playing, Brains already appeared to be a very old man to the stripling me. He must have been only in his thirties, but he had clearly lived in some very rough digs. He was one of those people with a face like a knuckle and a body like a bag of spanners. There was no subtlety or nuance in him. He was not only a man without fear, but he was also a man without sense.

For Brains, no bowler was too quick, and no fielding position was too suicidal. The red leather beat a tattoo on his body every week, and he often ended up with a torso so scarred and cratered that it resembled the moon’s surface. His teammates concluded that only a direct strike from a comet could stop him.

As it turned out, it took far less. It was a bright sunny day, and despite his advancing years, Brains was standing about ten feet in front of the batsman as our opening bowler limbered up.

Brains glared at the batsman, blinking as his eyes tried to focus. Down came a juicy, slow, long-hop. The batsman wound up. The tendons on his massive arms stood out. The ball was met with a resounding smack. Realising he was about to be obliterated by the ball, Brains turned, ducked and protected his head. There was a sickening thud as the ball thundered into his posterior parts at high speed. He dropped like a stone but gradually rose unsteadily to his feet and winced.

There was no sign of Brains at tea. A couple of us, Dai Knickers (don’t ask) and I, went to look for him. From the changing rooms, we heard an unearthly howl of anguish. Hearing the shower running, we looked inside to find Brains, shower hose in hand, playing a jet of cold water over the pair of pigeon egg-sized bruises on either side of where the sun shineth not. Dai and I looked at each other and slipped soundlessly away.

Brains carried on playing until the end of the season, often entertaining us with the way he carefully positioned an inflatable rubber ring under himself as he sat down and forgot to put the stopper in.

I still don’t know what was funnier: the forlorn farting noise the ring made as it deflated or the screams that followed as his backside hit a hard surface.

Full house for moving ‘Music of Unity’ concert in Milford Haven

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven was filled with music, colour and community spirit on Sunday (May 18), as the Ukrainian music group vILNI and the Milford Haven Town Band joined forces for a powerful charity concert celebrating unity across cultures.

Titled Music of Unity, the free concert attracted a full congregation, with standing room only by the time the choir took to the front of the historic church. Dressed in traditional Ukrainian embroidered blouses, the performers from VILNI moved the audience with a series of stirring songs that spoke of hope, resilience, and homeland.

The event was a touching show of solidarity from the local community, with many attendees waving small flags or wearing blue and yellow in support of Ukraine. The concert was followed by a community gathering in the church hall, where guests shared refreshments and took part in a raffle to raise funds for Ukrainian families affected by war.

The Milford Haven Town Band added a local musical flavour to the event, performing several pieces and supporting the vocalists with warm brass harmonies.

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One attendee told The Herald: “It was one of the most moving afternoons I’ve experienced. The music was beautiful, but it was the togetherness in the room that really stood out.”

Organisers thanked everyone who donated, with all proceeds going towards humanitarian support for Ukraine. Donations were accepted by cash or card, and raffle prizes included hampers, vouchers, and locally crafted gifts.

Photos from the event show a vibrant gathering of people of all ages, brought together by music and a shared sense of compassion.

Full support: A packed house listens to the Music of Unity in Milford Haven (Pic: Herald)

Celebration after song: Community members gather for refreshments and a raffle in the church hall (Pic: Herald)

Castle regeneration project enters exciting new phase

A MULTI-MILLION pound

regeneration of Haverfordwest Castle has entered its next major stage, as work continues to transform the historic landmark into a flagship visitor attraction for Pembrokeshire.

The ambitious redevelopment is part of a wider £17.7 million UK Government-funded scheme to revitalise Haverfordwest town centre and make better use of its rich heritage assets.

Over the past six months, conservation specialists iBEX have carried out meticulous repairs to the ancient walls of the Scheduled Ancient Monument, while archaeological excavations have been undertaken by Heneb – The Trust for Welsh Archaeology. The castle’s inner bailey has been newly landscaped to host outdoor events and concerts, and preparatory work has been completed on the old County Gaol building by site contractor Morgan Sindall.

The project now moves into its next phase: converting the former gaol into a modern, state-of-the-art visitor experience that will explore both the history and future of Pembrokeshire through immersive exhibits, interactive displays and innovative digital storytelling.

Plans also include the refurbishment and relaunch of the Haverfordwest Museum, which will be housed in the Grade II-listed Governor’s House, along with free outdoor interpretation trails

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throughout the castle grounds.

A development grant of £368,525 has been awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to support the next design phase. Leading interpretation specialists The Creative Core have been appointed to shape the museum’s layout and exhibitions. Local residents will be invited to participate in focus groups, surveys and workshops throughout 2025 to help inform the final designs.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader and

Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change, said:

“We are excited to see this ambitious project continue apace. This next stage brings us closer to delivering a highquality heritage attraction that will boost not only the town’s economy but the entire county.”

Local member Cllr Thomas Tudor added: “It’s fantastic to see real progress. Our town’s castle is a source of pride, and we want to make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.”

Pembrokeshire County Council is working in partnership with the

Haverfordwest Castle Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), which will run the attraction once complete. The CIO, which evolved from the project’s stakeholder group, is also seeking further funding support with the help of professional fundraisers.

The redevelopment has been nearly a decade in the making, and is expected to deliver a year-round cultural attraction for Pembrokeshire—welcoming local people, schools and tourists, while acting as a gateway to explore the wider region.

MP visits working group supporting Oriel y Parc gallery

ST DAvIDS was the backdrop for a show of cross-community support this week as MP Henry Tufnell met with members of the Pembrokeshire Landscape Gallery Working Group on Wednesday (May 14).

The group, which has been instrumental in promoting and defending the gallery at Oriel y Parc, welcomed the local MP on a sunny afternoon to discuss the importance of retaining access to world-class art in Pembrokeshire.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “It was a privilege to spend the afternoon with the brilliant Pembrokeshire Landscape Gallery Working Group here in St Davids. I’m proud to support their work in protecting our state-of-the-art gallery at Oriel y Parc.”

He added: “Art enriches our communities, and having access to world class art right here in Pembrokeshire is so important.”

The gallery, which is run in partnership with Amgueddfa Cymru –Museum Wales and Pembrokeshire

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Coast National Park Authority, plays host to a rotating programme of exhibitions. The current display, a celebration of the RNLI, runs until 1 June.

Local residents have praised the gallery for its diverse programme. Jill Simpson commented online: “The Gallery at Oriel y Parc hosts some brilliant and varied exhibitions. The present one, a celebration of the RNLI, is certainly worth visiting before it closes on 1st June.”

Mr Tufnell encouraged residents and visitors alike to check the gallery’s website to see what’s on: “If you haven’t visited recently, take a look at their brilliant range of exhibitions and activities.”

During the visit, the group discussed their shared vision for protecting and enhancing Pembrokeshire’s cultural offering, amid wider concerns over council cuts and the future of community

‘Allo ‘Allo! comes to the Torch Theatre this June

FANS of the beloved British sitcom ‘Allo ‘Allo! are in for a treat this June, as the Torch Theatre hosts a live stage adaptation of the wartime comedy classic.

Presented by New Xenon Theatre Company—a newly formed group created by members of the much-loved Xenon Liberal Arts—the show brings all the farcical charm of the original series to life. Expect slapstick humour, larger-than-life characters, and chaotic plot twists as café owner René Artois juggles Nazis, the Resistance, secret British airmen, and an increasingly complicated love life, all within his humble café in occupied France.

The plot centres on René and his long-suffering (and tone-deaf) wife Edith, who are hiding a priceless stolen painting in a sausage in their cellar—alongside two downed RAF airmen awaiting rescue. Add to that a malfunctioning wireless disguised as a cockatoo, a series of inept disguises, and a visit from a Führer impersonator, and the stage is set for an evening of classic comedic mayhem.

Director Allison Butler, who also plays Michelle of the Resistance, said: “We’re thrilled to bring this hilarious show to the Torch as our maiden production for New Xenon Theatre Company. The cast members really are doing a wonderful job of bringing all the characters to life, and we’re looking forward to welcoming you to Café René!”

Jordan Dickin, who takes onthe role of Officer Crabtree, added: “Rehearsals have been an absolute blast, and it’s a joy to embody such an iconic character. Listen very carefully, I will say this only once… make it a Good Moaning and

get your tickets before they vanish like phantoms into the night!”

Performances of ‘Allo ‘Allo! will take place at the Torch Theatre on:

• Thursday 19 June at 7:30pm

• Friday 20 June at 7:30pm

• Saturday 21 June at 2:30pm and 7:30pm

Tickets are £18, with £16 concessions available for the Thursday performance only. For bookings, visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

spaces.

A photo of the MP alongside members of the group was taken

outside the gallery under a bright blue sky, symbolising a hopeful outlook for the arts in rural Wales.

Support for the arts – MP Henry Tufnell meets with the Pembrokeshire Landscape Gallery Working Group in St Davids (Pic: Supplied).

Matt’s gift inspires patient on mental health ward to play music again

A YOUNG MAN receiving treatment at a local mental health unit has found hope and inspiration through a piano donated in memory of Matt Baker – just days after the instrument arrived at the hospital. Matt, affectionately known as “Mr Good Times” of Haverfordwest, passed away in March aged 49. In tribute, his family used donations from his funeral to gift a Yamaha electric piano to Bro Cerwyn Hospital, where Matt had spent the final months of his life.

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Now, in a moving story shared by Matt’s mother, Phyllis Oostermeijer, one of the patients on Matt’s former ward has already been uplifted by the gift – reconnecting with music and even expressing an interest in attending local art charity The VC Gallery, which also received a donation in Matt’s name.

Phyllis said: “I am writing this with tears of joy and emotion running down

my cheeks. A mother got in touch with me. Her son, who is on the same ward Matt was, had discovered the piano. He was playing from the music book that came with it and told his mum, ‘It’s beautiful – it makes me want to make music again.’”

The patient initially thought his own keyboard had been brought in from home. When he learned it was a gift donated in memory of Matt, whom he remembered playing and singing on the ward, he was moved.

“He told his mum how wonderful it was to listen to Matt sing and play,” said Phyllis. “Now that he knows Matt gave the piano and supported The VC Gallery, he says he wants to go there –somewhere he never previously wanted to visit.”

For Phyllis, the encounter has reaffirmed the family’s decision to donate the instrument: “Did we do right to decide on a piano? I think this confirms we did. Mental health wards are desperate for this kind of help –activities to help unwell people find themselves again.”

She added: “So Matt is helping from the grave – or from the sky. We have to keep helping where we can.”

The story has touched hundreds online and highlights the power of small acts of kindness and the enduring legacy of a man whose love for music and people continues to ripple through the community.

Donations in Matt Baker’s memory support local mental health charities

THE FAMILY of Matt Baker, affectionately known as “Mr Good Times” of Haverfordwest, has presented donations to three local mental health projects during Mental Health Awareness Week.

Matt passed away in March aged 49, and his funeral in April drew hundreds of mourners. In his memory, the Baker and Oostermeijer families collected donations to support causes close to Matt’s heart.

This week, £700 cheques were presented to two well-known Pembrokeshire organisations: Get The Boys A Lift and The VC Gallery. Both groups work extensively with people experiencing mental health challenges, offering safe spaces, support sessions, and community outreach.

A further donation was made to Bro Cerwyn Hospital, where Matt had spent ten months receiving care. The family

gifted a Yamaha electric piano, complete with stool and headphones, in the hope that music can bring comfort and joy to patients.

Phyllis Oostermeijer, Matt’s mother, said: “We as a family would like to thank everyone concerned. Truly amazing –and I trust it will do a lot of good. Perhaps every now and again a pianist can go to the hospital and play for the patients. Matt would like that.”

The gesture comes at a time when mental health support services across Wales continue to be stretched, with charities and community organisations increasingly relied upon to bridge the gap.

Reuben Baker and Aad Oostermeijer, Matt’s brother and stepfather, attended the cheque presentation at The VC Gallery alongside representatives from the supported organisations.

Matt’s legacy of positivity, compassion,

and community spirit continues to make an impact – not just on those who knew him, but on the many people these donations will go on to help.

MARvEL STUDIOS’ Ironheart is set to premiere on Disney+ on June 24, 2025, as the final installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Phase Five. The six-episode miniseries will launch with a three-episode premiere, followed by weekly releases.

The series centers on Riri Williams, a brilliant teenage inventor introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. After assisting the Wakandans, Riri returns to her hometown of Chicago to develop a more advanced version of her Iron Maninspired suit. As she builds her place in the superhero world, she faces off against Parker Robbins, also known as The Hood — a villain who merges mysticism with menace through the use of dark magic. This collision of cutting-

edge technology and ancient sorcery sets the stage for a unique and thrilling narrative.

Dominique Thorne reprises her role as Riri, leading a cast that includes Anthony Ramos as The Hood, Lyric Ross, Alden Ehrenreich, Regan Aliyah, Manny Montana, Matthew Elam, and Anji White. Rumors also hint at a surprise appearance from Sacha Baron Cohen as the enigmatic Mephisto.

Behind the scenes, the show is helmed by creator and head writer Chinaka Hodge, with episodes directed by Sam Bailey and Angela Barnes. The executive production team includes Marvel veterans and visionary filmmakers such as Ryan Coogler, Kevin Feige, and Louis D’Esposito.

Set against the vibrant

backdrop of Chicago, Ironheart explores themes of identity, innovation, and the moral consequences of power and ambition. Riri’s journey to carve out her own heroic legacy — separate from that of Tony Stark — unfolds as a powerful blend of emotional growth, high-stakes conflict, and explosive action. With sleek new Ironheart armor and a bold new adversary, the series promises to deliver a compelling blend of heart, brains, and battle.

The official trailer offers a glimpse of the challenges ahead for Riri as she steps fully into her role as Ironheart. With its fusion of science and sorcery, Ironheart stands ready to push the boundaries of what an MCU series can be.

LILO & STITCH

Disney’s live-action reimagining of Lilo & Stitch, directed by Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’s Dean Fleischer Camp, is already being hailed as one of the studio’s best adaptations to date—perhaps even the best. Set to premiere in UK cinemas on May 23, 2025, the film blends heartfelt storytelling, clever humor, and nostalgic warmth in a way that’s winning over early viewers and critics alike.

The story remains rooted in the emotional core of the 2002 animated original: the unbreakable bond between a lonely young girl and an alien experiment who crashlands on Earth. Maia Kealoha, in her feature debut, shines as Lilo, capturing the fierce independence and emotional vulnerability of the character. Sydney Agudong brings new depth to the role of Nani, Lilo’s overburdened but loving older sister, offering a performance that strengthens the film’s portrayal of family and resilience. Meanwhile, the beloved Stitch is once again voiced by his original creator, Chris Sanders, maintaining his chaotic yet lovable charm.

Critics like Daniel Baptista have called it “the biggest surprise of the year” and “easily the best Disney live-action remake yet,” pointing to the film’s mix of heartwarming moments and laugh-out-loud comedy.

Wendy Lee Szany echoed this praise, noting the film delivers on its emotional beats while still offering enough fresh material to keep longtime fans engaged.

The supporting cast features comedic heavyweights Zach Galifianakis as the mad scientist Jumba and Billy Magnussen as the excitable Pleakley. Notably, Pleakley’s iconic penchant for cross-dressing—beloved for its quirky humor and implicit LGBTQ+ representation— has been removed. Director Dean Fleischer Camp admitted he fought to preserve it, but ultimately the studio opted against including it, a decision that’s drawn some criticism from fans of the original.

Other changes include the absence of the character Gantu, a key antagonist in the animated version. While the film streamlines certain story elements, it still preserves much of the original’s emotional resonance and thematic depth, emphasizing ohana—the

Hawaiian concept of family—as a guiding force.

Musically, Lilo & Stitch hits a nostalgic sweet spot. Classic Elvis tracks like “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Hound Dog” return with fresh energy, while a new rendition of “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride,” performed by American Idol winner Iam Tongi and the Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus, offers a culturally rich and emotionally stirring update.

Despite some creative decisions that have sparked debate, the 2025 Lilo & Stitch stands out for its sincerity. It doesn’t just aim to capitalize on nostalgia—it revisits a beloved story with care, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. With vibrant visuals, earnest performances, and a heartfelt message that still rings true, this remake proves there’s plenty of life in the tale of a little girl and her blue alien “dog.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the story for the first time, this reimagining invites you to believe in the power of family—chosen or otherwise—and reminds us all that even the most unlikely creatures can find a place to belong.

Tech and Taff

THE HIDDEN CRISIS BEHIND THE SCREEN

WHEN you think of what causes poor mental health in young people, your mind might jump to the usual suspects – stress, poverty, isolation, maybe even family history. But there’s a more insidious driver we don’t like talking about. One that hides in plain sight and leaves scars long before most know how to speak them aloud: abuse. And in today’s world, that abuse doesn’t always happen behind closed doors. Increasingly, it’s happening online – often right under our noses.

Chad Varah, the founder of Samaritans, once said that many people who rang their suicide helpline did so because of abuse in their past. That was decades ago – long before the internet gave abusers a direct line to their victims’ bedrooms.

The truth is, the digital age hasn’t just brought us video calls and cat memes. It’s brought new risks. Big ones. The kind of risks most parents in Wales – or anywhere else – didn’t grow up with and aren’t fully equipped to tackle.

Take Roblox. You’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a harmless digital playground – blocky graphics, silly games, popular with the under-10s. But beneath its bright, cheerful surface lies a world where predators can, and do, lurk. A recent investigation found adult users contacting children as young as five and even asking for Snapchat details. In one horrifying case, a man allegedly used the game to lure and abduct a 10-year-old. This isn’t a fringe problem. It’s happening right now.

New research from Childlight – a safety initiative based at the University of Edinburgh – found that around 830,000 children globally are at risk of sexual exploitation and abuse every single day. That includes grooming, blackmail, explicit image sharing, and sexual coercion – all facilitated by the platforms kids use to relax after school.

And here’s the kicker: a lot of this abuse

doesn’t involve any physical contact. It’s about exposure – to language, images, and manipulation that a developing brain simply isn’t equipped to process. And it leaves mental scars: anxiety, depression, PTSD, even suicidal thoughts. Kids don’t always speak up about it either. Just like in real-world abuse, the same shame, fear, and confusion keeps them quiet.

In 2023, almost one in five children aged 10 to 15 in England and Wales had chatted online with someone they’d never met. Nearly a third of young gamers speak to strangers while playing. Not every stranger is a predator, of course. But it only takes one.

What’s frightening is how out of step adults often are with the digital spaces children live in. We wouldn’t let our kids walk the streets of Cardiff or Carmarthen alone at night – but we hand them a smartphone without a second thought. And in that phone lives the whole world: good, bad and terrifying.

So what do we do?

First, we talk. Not once, but often. And not just about “stranger danger” –but about real risks, real platforms, and real conversations. We teach kids that they can talk to us about anything, and we listen when they do.

Second, we stop relying on tech companies to police themselves. They’ve had their chance. On 25 July, the Online Safety Act will kick in across the UK. It gives regulators real power to hold platforms accountable for the harm caused to children. It’s long overdue –and not a moment too soon.

And finally, we confront the uncomfortable truth that behind the emojis and avatars and filters are real people causing real harm. If we want to prevent future calls to the Samaritans, we have to face those truths head on – and act before it’s too late.

We wouldn’t ignore lead in the water. We shouldn’t ignore poison on the screen.

— Professor Barry Davis, blowing the whistle from the land of leeks and lag.

Queens Hall: Sorted Ska Band

IF you’re feeling the summer heat creeping in, there’s no better way to cool down than by dancing your socks off to the nuttiest sounds in town.

On Saturday, June 14th, the mighty Sorted Ska Band – proudly hailed as Wales’ leading Two-Tone tribute band – will be bringing their high-energy show to The Queens Hall. Expect a full-throttle tribute to ska legends like Madness, The Specials, Bad Manners, and The Beat. This isn’t a night for sitting still – it’s standing room only, and your feet will be moving from the first beat to the last!

Joining them on the decks is DJ

‘Allo ‘Allo!

Roberto, spinning an all-vinyl set packed with old skool Ska, Bluebeat, Rock Steady, and Reggae classics – guaranteed to get the good vibes rolling.

Doors open at 8pm, and tickets are £15 in advance, so get yours early to avoid missing out. All ages are welcome, though under 18s will need to bring an adult along for the ride. Whether you’re a long-time rude boy or just ska-curious, this night promises nothing but top tunes, big energy, and a chance to dance like nobody’s watching. Don’t miss it!

Tickets and more info available at The Queens Hall website

at the Torch Theatre

Laughter is set to echo through the Torch Theatre this June as New Xenon makes its debut with a riotous stage adaptation of the beloved British sitcom ‘Allo ‘Allo!, running from Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st June 2025.

This spirited amateur production promises to bring the charm and chaos of the original television classic to life, complete with all the familiar faces from the wartime farce that captivated audiences for seven seasons. Fans of the series will be delighted to see René, the beleaguered café owner caught between the Nazis and the Resistance, back in action – along with his famously tone-deaf wife Edith, bumbling Officer Crabtree, the eversinister Herr Flick, and the enigmatic Michelle of the Resistance.

The plot centres around René’s desperate attempts to conceal a priceless painting — stolen by the Nazis and cleverly hidden inside a sausage in the cellar. If that weren’t enough, two stranded British airmen

are also being harboured in the café’s basement, awaiting their return to Blighty with the help of the Resistance. With a wireless disguised as a cockatoo for communicating with London and imposters dressed as Hitler causing further confusion, René is forced to summon every ounce of wit and cunning to stay alive and keep his café afloat.

This marks the inaugural performance from New Xenon, a newlyformed amateur troupe composed of familiar faces from Xenon Liberal Arts, a name warmly remembered by local theatre enthusiasts. The group’s arrival breathes new life into Pembrokeshire’s amateur dramatic scene, with this first outing promising a faithful and joyously over-the-top homage to a much-loved British institution.

Tickets are priced at £18.00, with a £2 concession available on Thursday evening. Given the popularity of both the series and its stage adaptations, early booking is advised.

ELDEN RING NIGHTREIGN

AH YES, a shimmering shard of digital madness emerging once more from the deliciously deranged minds at FromSoftware, those electronic alchemists of agony and ecstasy.

But don’t expect a stroll through the familiar ruins of open-world melancholy — no, no, this is a co-op roguelike fever dream, a kaleidoscopic whirl through a procedurally generated pandemonium where time itself is your most malevolent enemy.

We’re no longer meandering through the mournful majesty of the Lands Between — we’re hurled headlong into Limveld, a surreal echo, a warped reflection of former glories, where you, dear player, become a Nightfarer — a kind of mystical warriorcipher galloping toward doom on a three-day timer that ticks like a cosmic doomsday clock forged by Lovecraft and Nietzsche on a bad trip.

As the minutes bleed into hours, the world collapses around you, shrinking like the pupil of an awakening god — forcing confrontation, communion, conflict. Boss battles loom not as mere obstacles but as existential crescendos, cataclysms that reset reality itself. Each run?

A ritual. Each failure? A lesson whispered by the void.

And oh, the classes — eight avatars of carnage and charisma!

The Duchess, all balletic brutality and finesse. The Guardian, a stoic fortress of will and steel.

The Revenant, weaving melodies from beyond the veil. Each one a poem of violence, an invitation to expression through destruction. Magic, might, mysticism — the whole gamut of the metaphysical and martial.

Now, before you start frothing about stats and Soulsborne minutiae — relax, dear gamer. This ain’t a spreadsheet simulator. It’s been streamlined,

simplified in places, but never dumbed down. Weapons don’t sneer at your attributes. Combat has the fizz and crackle of a pub brawl in Valhalla. It’s tuned for three-player cooperation, a mystical ménage à trois of strategy and spontaneity.

Granted, there’s no crossplatform play, which is a bit like building a church and forgetting the front door — but still, the core loop is an addictive spiral of glory, death, and rebirth. A game that doesn’t just demand your time, but makes that time feel sacred.

Elden Ring: Nightreign isn’t just a sequel or a spin-off — it’s a transmutation, a bold alchemical remix of the Souls formula into something leaner, fiercer, and dare I say, more psychedelic. Will it stand the test of time? Or will it vanish like a dream at sunrise? Who knows. But one thing’s for sure — Nightreign isn’t here to whisper. It’s here to howl.

HOROSCOPES

You

head out and notice what a vibrant and rich world it really is. That change in attitude might feel like it needs a new look to accompany it, so indulge in remaking yourself from the inside out. There’s no better accompaniment to a makeover of the soul than a great new haircut and maybe a kicky new outfit too!

LIBRA

Remember that haste makes waste now, especially if you’re tempted to rush into something just to feel like you’re making progress. You could actually cause delays and setbacks by jumping into a new project without thinking it through, especially at work or taking care of home improvement. These matters need your full, patient attention. A happy ending may take longer than you would like.

SCORPIO

You’re a seeker of knowledge of all kinds, from the physical to the emotional and mental. You need to realize that you’re still a student in many ways, no matter how much you may know or how old you (or your soul) may be. This humble attitude serves you well when it comes to facing a new challenge in your life. Allies should flock to help with what you need, and you may make friends for life.

SAGITTARIUS

Your schedule is just a little overloaded! Old friends and new contacts are booking you left and right, because no social event is complete without your winning smile and fantastic presence. It’s not that you put on a big show wherever you go, far from it. It’s just that every person who sees and talks to you feels so much better afterward. Who wouldn’t want someone like you at their party or meeting?

CAPRICORN

You need to strike a balance between your cravings and your fears, and it might not be easy. Wake up from your dream life and try to figure out what’s actually necessary as opposed to what is merely desired. No amount of money can purchase inner security, so try to make sure that your purchases are more sensible. Any financial tidal waves should smooth out and become mere ripples.

AQUARIUS

Big workplace rewards are in store for you,

Badger starts the big countdown

Of councils, whingers, grumblers, of cabbages, and stings.

As Badger counts down the hours and days toward his departure, your resident mustelid could spend his time settling some scores. He cannot see the point. After all, readers, so what?

Badger’s view about the perpetually discontented is that their lives must be like widdling themselves. No doubt, it gives them a fleeting warm feeling of pleasure, but observers regard it as embarrassing if not repellent.

Those incontinent of opinion who relish the warm, golden feeling of their conviction that they are always right are, in Badger’s experience, completely bereft of ideas. They squawk and complain, hawk their jeremiads and flail against the world. However, the depth of their thinking is best encapsulated by the line in Rebel Without a Cause.

“What are you rebelling against?”

“What’ve you got?”

The rebels without a clue have as much traction and impact on the population of Pembrokeshire as the plop of a pebble in the Great Southern Ocean.

If you go looking for scandal and conspiracy, be sure you will find it, readers. Badger’s experience is that, generally speaking, cock-up and institutional inertia have far more to do with what goes on in public life than any other factors.

For sure, Badger has contempt on a rolling boil for many of those who pass themselves off as politicians in this benighted age. A greater bunch of unimaginative, ideologicallyclosed and tribal dimwits you’d be hard pressed to find.

Badger has spent the last fortyodd years of his adulthood watching politics descend from being a proper battle of ideas to little more than a reality TV programme where what matters is either (a) how sorry the public are for you - see Ed Davey; (b) how much an arse you are prepared to make of yourself - see

Ed Davey; or (c) how much you appeal to sentiment, grievances and prejudices - see every other party leader.

Ask yourselves one important question, readers.

What’s the big idea?

If you can tell Badger what the big idea animating any of the major political parties is, you’re clearly experienced in entering a dark, unlit cellar and finding a black cat that isn’t there.

Look at Labour in Cardiff Bay. What’s their big idea? Not what abstract concepts they espouse, but their big, concrete vision: i.e., we will do this, and the result will be that, and we will be responsible for the plan and its outcome. It’s all numinous fart-arsing around.

This week, Sam Kurtz made the elementary error of asking his opposite number, Huw IrrancaDavies, what he thought of a UK government policy affecting his rural affairs brief.

Badger sieved Mr IrrancaDavies’s reply for a snippet of the opinion canvassed. He found none.

Assuming Huw Irranca-Davies has an opinion on something other than the magnificence of Huw Irranca-Davies, Badger can only conclude he was too cowardly to answer the question. On the one

hand, he’d piss off a load of Welsh voters ahead of May 2026. On the other hand, he’d piss off his boss, the Secretary of State for Wales, Jo “Knuckles” Stevens.

Best to say nothing and hope nobody notices.

In a way, Badger misses Lee Waters as Wales’s de facto transport minister. At least he had an intellectually coherent set of ideas (no matter how wrong Badger thinks some of them were) and the courage of his convictions. Bluntly, none of the current mob even has the courage of someone else’s convictions. They are a time-serving non entity’s non-entities.

This week, Sir Keir Starmer announced a reset in the UK’s relationship with the EU. The PM’s announcement peeved, nay vexed, those deranged Brexit headbangers who kiss Nigel Farage’s photo before they go to bed each night. More importantly, it highlighted the almost total irrelevance of the Welsh Government.

Fishing is a policy area devolved to the Welsh Government. After Keir Starmer announced his big deal, Eluned Morgan was, quite rightly, asked what input the Welsh Government had into an agreement with the EU that affected the Welsh Government’s fisheries policy. No

matter how she tried to duck, dive, and equivocate, the answer - it soon became apparent - was not only bog-all, but that she and her ministers either said bog-all or they were ignored.

The irony is that those who still think Brexit has had positive results for the UK’s economy and citizens say they are distraught that, as they see it, the UK is once more a rule-taker instead of a rulemaker. Imagine being a Welsh Government minister, having spent fourteen years railing against being rule takers from Westminster, they find themselves being told what to do, to say, and to think by Labour’s Westminster machine. Even where Welsh ministers have the power to make the rules, they are sidelined. It’s a contemptible position to be in, but to stay in power, the current mob in Cardiff Bay are prepared not only to be contemptible but beneath contempt.

Eluned Morgan’s posturing about “the red Welsh way” cannot hide the fact that she’s really on a Yellow Brick Road. It’s worth remembering what lay at the end of the Yellow Brick Road, readers. The Great and Powerful Oz turned out to be a fraud, a carnival huckster with as much magic in him as a three-day-old dog turd and a balloon filled with hot air.

Where is the big idea?

Not old, rehashed slogans, vacuous concepts, and catchphrases, but something genuinely impressive. The Welsh Government needs to forget empty aspirations and focus on doing real things that affect real people. The problem it has is that where it might make progress, for example on waiting times in the NHS, it is solving a problem it created.

In that sense, Eluned Morgan most resembles Rishi Sunak: desperately trying to get the credit for turning around a series of disasters inflicted by his party.

And we know what happened when Rishi went to the country.

A HOUSE DIVIDED, A NATION DRIFTING

A SEAGULL’S seen a few things in his time – storms battering the breakwater, lorries tumbling off the Irish ferry, and even a councillor who could spell “budget.” But what I’m seeing in Britain right now feels more like a ship cracking down the middle.

Abraham Lincoln once said: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” Now, I’m not saying we’re on the verge of civil war like the Americans were – but by heck, it’s starting to feel like we’re flapping into something we mightn’t come back from.

We’ve got a UK that’s splintering: Scotland eyeing the lifeboats, Wales shouting from steerage that no one’s listening, and England tearing itself apart over who gets to wear the captain’s hat. And in the middle of it, there’s First Mate Starmer trying to keep the deckhands talking to each other.

Last week he tried patching things up with this “Council of the Nations and Regions” – sounds impressive, doesn’t it? Bit like the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen but with more red tape and fewer gadgets. It’s meant to be a place where everyone – from the Welsh Senedd to the Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire – can come together and talk like grown-ups. Only problem is, no one’s quite sure what it’s for.

Is it a new Lords? Is it a glorified coffee morning? Gordon Brown once had a grand plan for it to replace the House of Lords altogether, but Labour’s gone quieter on that than a puffin in a snowstorm.

Truth is, Britain’s been muddling through devolution like a drunk seagull on a floating crisp packet. A bit of power here for Scotland, a smidgen there for Wales, and England left without a proper plan of its own. London’s got a Mayor, so why not Liverpool or Llandudno? And why are some mayors barely trusted to run a bus timetable while others get whole regeneration budgets?

Still, at least Starmer’s giving it a go

– which is more than can be said for the Boris and Liz double-act. Those two wouldn’t know devolution from a doner kebab. Boris called it a disaster and then tried to bulldoze over it like a skip lorry in a cul-de-sac. Liz barely lasted long enough to learn where Wales was. But now the game’s changing. Reform UK’s flapping their wings over Hull, Lincolnshire, and making noises about the Senedd. SNP’s Swinney has

remembered how to growl. The Labour red tide of 2024 already feels like it’s ebbing away.

So what now? If Starmer wants to fix the UK, he’ll need to listen – really listen – to the mayors, ministers, and the people who never got invited to Westminster garden parties. He can’t just be seen to be doing something –he’s got to be doing something.

Because if this council turns out

to be just another round-table talking shop with no decisions, no teeth, and no point – well then, you might as well hold the next one in the café down Milford Marina. At least there, you’ll get a bacon roll with your disappointment. Until next time, keep your wings steady and your chips close.

Yours from the mooring bollard, Stephen

Tell us what your dog means to you

HAvE you got a pooch who puts a smile on your face every single day? Maybe they greet you at the door like you’ve returned from a fiveyear mission to Mars – even if you only went out for a pint of milk. Or perhaps they’ve helped you through some of the hardest times, just by being their tail-wagging, nose-nuzzling, biscuitbegging selves.

Well now’s your chance to say thank you – and tell the nation just how special they are.

The National Dog Survey 2025 launched this week

(Monday, May 13), and it’s looking for voices from across Wales. Run by Dogs Trust, it’s Britain’s biggest dog census and aims to capture just how much joy our four-legged companions bring into our lives – from muddy-pawed chaos to moments of pure comfort.

Last year, over 373,000 people took part, sharing stories about more than 430,000 dogs. The results were heart-warming and, frankly, a little bit hilarious. Apparently, 96% of dog owners say their mental health is better thanks to their dog, but only 24% can correctly spot when their dog’s

feeling anxious. (Time for a brush-up on those floppy ears and tail tucks, folks!)

Whether your dog is your best friend, jogging buddy, counsellor or biscuit thief, this is a chance to celebrate them.

Owen Sharp, the big boss at Dogs Trust, says:

“Dogs are so much more than pets – they’re part of the family. This year’s survey is all about those special everyday moments. We want to hear how your dog fits into your life and why they mean the world to you.”

You don’t even have to own a dog to take part. If you love

them from afar, borrow your neighbour’s, or follow about 57 spaniels on Instagram, they still want to hear from you.

The survey takes just 15 minutes and is open until Tuesday, June 24. You can take part online at:

www.dogstrust.org.uk/ survey-25

And remember – every response helps Dogs Trust improve life for dogs across the UK, including those still waiting for their forever homes.

Until next time – paws up, tails wagging, and may your walks be dry and your slippers unchewed.

Healthy food for schools: New proposals to improve children’s diets

THE WELSH GOvERNMENT has this week launched a public consultation on new school food regulations aimed at improving children’s health and well-being by ensuring all pupils have access to nutritious meals.

The proposed changes focus on increasing the amount of fruit and vegetables in primary school meals and reducing the availability of sugary desserts and fried foods. The plans align with UK dietary guidelines and

are part of a broader strategy to promote healthy eating habits from an early age.

Evidence shows that many children in Wales consume too much sugar and not enough fruit, vegetables, or wholegrains. This imbalance contributes to childhood obesity, with one in four children starting school already overweight or obese.

These new proposals support the Healthy Weight: Healthy Wales strategy and follow the completion of the rollout of

universal free school meals for all primary pupils. They mark the next phase in the Government’s commitment to making the healthy choice the easy choice.

Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, said:

“Good nutrition is vital for helping young people perform at their best – whether in the classroom, on the pitch, or chasing their dreams. Our evidence-based updates to school food rules will give children the best start in life, support Welsh food producers,

and nurture a generation of healthy eaters to safeguard the future of our NHS.

“Schools and catering teams across Wales are already working hard to provide nutritious meals. I want to build on that progress and hear directly from parents, teachers, suppliers and young people. By working together, we can shape food standards that benefit every child in Wales –both now and in the future.”

Rachel Bath, Consultant in Public Health at Public Health Wales, added: “Public Health Wales welcomes these proposals for primary schools. Evidence shows that robust food standards in schools can have a lasting positive impact on children’s health and well-being. Strengthening these regulations is a vital step toward building lifelong healthy eating habits.

“These changes not only benefit children’s health but also support a more sustainable food system and local economy. Through collaboration and oversight, school food can become a powerful tool for improving public health in Wales.”

International exchange of training ideas between Wales and Catalonia

THE ORGANISATION representing work-based learning providers across Wales has welcomed representatives from Catalonia to Cardiff to exchange international ideas on vocational training and youth employment.

Part of Taith, Wales’ international learning exchange programme, the visit was organised by the National Training Federation for Wales (NTFW) and included an opportunity for the visitors – who work for the Catalan Government’s Education Department, with specialists in youth employment and international mobility – to view ACT’s apprenticeship and youth training programmes.

The NTFW, which represents the interests of training providers and learners across Wales, fosters strong partnerships with key stakeholders including the Welsh Government, Medr, Members of the Senedd, Qualifications Wales, Education Workforce Council and Estyn.

The Federation brings together four of Wales’ leading

training providers – ACT, Itec Skills and Employment, Cambrian Training Company and Educ8 – all of whom were represented during the discussions.

The visit formed part of a wider European study tour for the Catalan representatives who have also visited Finland, France, Italy, Portugal and Mexico to explore how different nations deliver governmentfunded training programmes.

Despite differences in qualification frameworks and awarding bodies, both the Welsh and Catalan groups

quickly identified shared challenges.

These included rising numbers of young people classified as NEET – not in education, employment or training – difficulties in reengaging learners once they leave the system and the growing demand for improved mental health support in training environments.

NTFW members shared their experiences with the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme, which equips 16 to 19-year-olds with the skills, qualifications and work

experience necessary to progress into employment or further training.

In turn, Maribel Rodriguez, international programmes specialist with the Catalan delegation, introduced the ALMA programme. Funded by the Spanish Social Security Fund, the programme focuses on providing training, career guidance and overseas internship opportunities for young people seeking work abroad.

Richard Spear, ACT’s managing director, said: “It was incredibly valuable to sit down with our visitors from Catalonia and learn about the innovative approaches they are taking to address challenges we also face here in Wales.”

Lisa Mytton, NTFW strategic director, who chaired the meeting, added: “We were delighted to share how we are championing vocational training in Wales. It’s clear that while we face similar hurdles, we also share many strengths. Opportunities like this remind us of the power of collaboration and the importance of learning from each other.”

EDUCATION

Scrap, don’t delay the family farm death tax - Samuel Kurtz MS

FOLLOWING a report from the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee, where MPs have called for a year-long delay to proposed changes in farm inheritance tax.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs has reiterated Welsh Conservative calls to scrap the plans altogether.

The Labour Government plan will see inherited agricultural assets over £1m taxed at 20% starting in April 2026, sparking widespread protests from farmers. Critics, including the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) and the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), argue the policy could drag the average family farm into the higher tax bracket.

Commenting Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Samuel Kurtz MS, said:

“UK Labour’s reckless inheritance tax reforms threaten the livelihoods of hardworking farming families and risk decimating the rural economy, yet Labour continues to pile on the pressure without understanding the consequences.

“After the Welsh Labour Government have already clobbered the industry with

their, Wales-wide Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ), botched Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) and their failure to control bovine TB, these unfair changes add insult to injury. Instead of offering support,

both Governments are driving rural communities into financial instability

“These changes will threaten lives and livelihoods in rural Wales, and simply delaying these plans is not enough. It is high

time the Labour Government realises this and scraps these damaging proposals entirely. Otherwise, we risk not only the dismantling of family farms but also a serious threat to our nation’s food security.”

FUW and David Chadwick MP discuss need for fairness for farmers within supply chains

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) recently met with Brecon, Radnor & Cwm Tawe Member of Parliament, David Chadwick to discuss a range of issues facing Welsh farmers, including the need to secure fairer prices for farmers and food producers across the UK.

The meeting followed the Welsh Liberal Democrat MP’s efforts over recent months to strengthen the Groceries Code Adjudictator (GCA), improving fairness for farmers and producers within the supply chain.

The Groceries Code Adjudicator was established in 2013 to regulate the relationship between large grocery retailers and their direct suppliers, including farmers. However, the GCA has come under increased criticism over recent years due to its limited scope, resource constraints, enforcement challenges, and broader structural issues within the grocery sector.

These failures were highlighted in Parliament earlier this year in a Westminster Hall debate led by David Chadwick MP focussing on the agricultural supply chain. During the debate he highlighted concerns over supermarket treatment of farmers and the effectiveness of regulatory bodies.

The Brecon, Radnor & Cwm Tawe has since joined a range of cross-party MPs in sponsoring the Food Supply

Chain Fairness Bill, which would see the role of the Groceries Code Adjudicator strengthened, among other provisions aimed at improving fairness within the supply chain.

The Bill, introduced to Parliament in March 2025 by Alistair Carmichael, Chair of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Orkney and Shetland, would also support greater public procurement of locally produced

food and enhanced origin labelling requirements.

Commenting following the meeting FUW Deputy President, Dai Miles said: “The FUW has long argued that the Westminster Government should take necessary action to redress the imbalance in the powers held by primary producers, processors and retailers.

Whilst the establishment of the GCA over a decade ago was an

important step forward, it has become increasingly apparent it lacks the scope, resources and enforcement to effectively safeguard the interests of farmers and producers.

We therefore welcomed the opportunity to meet David Chadwick MP and discuss efforts to deliver a stronger, fairer voice for farmers within the supply chain.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss many of the wider challenges and changes facing Welsh agriculture, including the repercussions of the US-UK trade agreement, and continued concern over the UK Government’s proposed change to the Agricultural Property Relief (APR).

David Chadwick, Member of Parliament for Brecon, Radnor & Cwm Tawe added: “Unfairness in the supply chain is one of the biggest issues raised with me by farmers and producers in my constituency and I am happy to be working with stakeholders like the FUW and a cross-party group of MPs to try and the imbalances in the system we see.

“The farming sector is facing unprecedented challenges in recent years and I look forward to continuing to work with the FUW to ensure farmers and producers are heard in Westminster and we get the best possible outcomes for our rural communities.”

NFU Cymru gives a cautious welcome to UK-EU reset

NFU Cymru has today given a cautious welcome to the outcome of the UK-EU summit which should help reduce trade friction between the UK and its largest trading partner when it comes to the export of agri-food products.

Responding to the outcome of the summit, NFU Cymru President Aled Jones, said: “For some time we have been calling on government to pursue a better relationship with the EU, with the aim of reducing trade costs and friction. Securing an ambitious Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) agreement with the EU is one of the ways which will help to reduce friction at the border, and indeed that was something we called for in our general election manifesto of this time last year.

“I am pleased that the UK Government has clearly listened to these concerns. With the scope to remove Export Health Certificates and cumbersome controls at the border, this deal will deliver many benefits for agri-food exports to the EU.

“Since 1st January 2021, the EU has applied thirdcountry customs and border

controls to UK agri-food exports, including documentary and physical checks, with UK exporters of products of animal origin including meat and dairy, needing vets to inspect individual export consignments and sign Export Health Certificates.

“If we consider the volume of products moving into the EU from the UK since 2019, then these show a significant decline. Exports of meat and meat preparations have reduced by 33%, whilst dairy products and eggs have fallen by 20%. Although there are multiple contributing factors to these drops, new trade frictions under the post-Brexit EU-UK trade relationship are likely to be an important driver of these falls, and that is why we have to do what we reasonably can to reduce and dismantle these barriers to trade.

“Welsh food and drink exports to the EU were worth £813m in 2023, with meat and meat products accounting for £280m of this, and compared to the rest of the UK, Wales has been and remains more reliant on the EU as an export destination, with 75% of our food and drink going to the

SINCE 2016 we’ve seen Brexit, Covid-19 and a steady stream of UK Prime Ministers come and go. Meanwhile, farmers have been quietly getting on with creating, restoring and managing habitats, often on the same land that feeds us all.

well as contributing to cleaner, slower flowing water, clean air, and carbon sequestration alongside food production.

EU compared to 57% of food and drink exports from the UK. Today’s news is therefore of particular relevance to Welsh farmers.”

Although encouraged by today’s news, Mr Jones did sound a note of caution saying: “Whilst today’s positive news should mean that in future our goods will be able to reach the markets of the EU 27 without the current costs and complexities which undoubtedly have impeded trade flows, we have always argued that trade with the EU must be based on equivalency.

“Despite the benefits this deal brings, full dynamic alignment comes at a significant cost of committing to future EU rules, in which we will have little say. There remain important questions about what is within the scope of this agreement and, where current rules and regulations do differ, if there will be any exclusions. NFU Cymru will therefore be taking a particular interest in what limited exceptions there might be to dynamic alignment and urging the UK Government to protect our ability to make crucial regulatory decisions domestically.”

With this Thursday marking the International Day for Biological Diversity, it provides an opportunity to celebrate these efforts that have delivered impressive results for local wildlife and environmental resilience. For example, diverse hedgerows which flower and fruit are a priority habitat for 12 of the UK’s most threatened bird species, and restored or managed ponds and scrapes can lead to a 25-times increase in emergent insect biomass, supporting even more biodiversity than rivers and lakes.

The extent, and success of this work was recently highlighted by the Farmers’ Union of Wales following some data analysis from Welsh Government figures. Between 2016 and 2023, an average of 388,460 hectares was managed under agri-environmental contracts - around 21% of Welsh farmland. As part of this work, farmers planted, restored or laid 1,716,529 metres of hedgerows, created 72,134m² of new ponds, and created or maintained 1,218.51 hectares of streamside corridor/riparian woodland, alongside creating orchards, hay meadows and winter bird seed sources.

All of these combine to create cover, food and connectivity for insects, birds, and small mammals as

As the FUW gathered these figures, the Welsh Government released its Wales National Trends and Glastir Evaluation report for 2010-2021 (ERAMMP Report 105). Some of these efforts made by farmers through Glastir agreements can be seen within national trends.

For example, the management of unharvested/ unsprayed cereals or winter stubble providing seed, insects and shelter has led to a 24% increase in granivorous bird species. Riparian or streamside woodland corridors provide a multitude of benefits, and the report shows that 80% of headwaters remain in good ecological condition, with a halt in decline of plant species richness in broadleaved woodland.

However, the report also makes for sobering reading, with generally negative and some ‘stable’ impacts for Wales’ environment and wildlife as a whole. Farmers have been following the prescriptions provided to them by the Welsh Government through its editions of agrienvironment schemes for decades, so we must ensure that future schemes offer practical options that work for both farming businesses and biodiversity in Wales. It is an FUW priority to ensure future support, largely through the Sustainable Farming Scheme, works for all farming businesses.

The all-new Mazda6e – Jinba Ittai for the electric era

With the launch of the allnew Mazda6e, the Jinba Ittai driving philosophy enters a new era, transferring the seamless connection between car and driver into the age of electric mobility. Every detail of the Mazda6e has been developed to deliver precise handling, intuitive response and a natural sense of control, creating the sense of unity between car and driver that defines Jinba Ittai.

The five-door hatchback’s driving dynamics have been finetuned to inspire confidence and offer lasting driving pleasure.

A driver-focused cockpit layout and ergonomically designed seats ensure clarity, comfort and control, even on longer journeys. Customers can choose between two electric powertrains delivering 258PS or 245PS - both configurations deliver 320Nm of torque, ensuring smooth acceleration and responsive rear-wheel drive performance.

Like all Mazda models for the European market, the all-new Mazda6e has been refined by Mazda engineers in Hiroshima, Japan, and Oberursel, Germany, to meet the expectations of European customers. Steering, suspension and pedal calibration have been precisely adjusted to create a harmonious and reassuring driving feel. Rearwheel drive, a multi-link rear

suspension, and a balanced 50:50 weight distribution enable confident handling and direct feedback. The yaw rate aligns with human perception, while carefully tuned steering and damper characteristics increase precision in every manoeuvre.

An integrated brake control system permits fluid transitions between acceleration, braking and cornering, enhancing both stability and ride comfort. The rear spoiler deploying automatically at 60mph increases downforce and optimises high-speed stability.

The Mazda6e offers three drive modes — Normal, Sport and Individual — allowing drivers to tailor their driving experience to their individual style.

Normal mode ensures

smooth driving by harmonising range and performance, making it ideal for everyday use. In this mode, acceleration is smooth, regenerative braking is set to a standard level, and power steering resistance is also standard.

Sport mode is designed to deliver a more engaging and dynamic experience. It offers strong acceleration, medium regenerative braking, and increased steering resistance for greater road feel.

Individual mode allows drivers to configure acceleration, regenerative braking and steering characteristics to their personal preferences. Acceleration can be set to either medium or strong, regenerative braking is

available in four levels—low, standard, medium and strong— and steering resistance can be adjusted between standard and sport settings.

The all-new Mazda6e represents the evolution of Jinba Ittai in the age of electrification. It retains the distinctive driving experience of its predecessors while introducing a new level of precision, responsiveness and refinement. Every aspect of its design contributes to a dynamic, engaging and unmistakably Mazda driving experience.

Blending craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and cuttingedge technology, the all-new Mazda6e will arrive in UK dealer showrooms in 2026.

1.2

Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept makes its global debut

PREMIERED from 19 May on the Renault stand at the Roland-Garros French Open tennis tournament, Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept is a show car of stylish, go-anywhere looks, designed for the modern-day “gentleman explorer”. The name of Savane was already synonymous with exploration back in the 1950s. And in 1986, Savane continued its journey with a version of Renault 4 that was more laid-back, but still ready for adventure. Today, it is making its return with a vehicle expressing an even greater sense of freedom.

To this end, ground clearance is 15 mm higher on Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept than on the normal Renault 4 E-Tech electric. It gains special Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ 225/55 tyres – still 18-inch – with specific “Savane” wheels, while the front and rear tracks are 10 mm wider on either side.

Above all, Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept features a second electric motor on the rear axle for permanently available all-wheel drive. It is agile on muddy, snow-covered and unsurfaced routes, and even on terrain that demands offroading capabilities. This show car demonstrates the potential of the AmpR Small platform to create a B-segment electric vehicle with fourwheel drive.

Renault 4 Savane features bodywork in Jade Green, a new colour whose chic appearance is underlined by the gloss black bumpers and wheel arches. The roof features a printed fabric, based on pixel variations, for a concealment effect. The conventional stops on the front and rear bumpers are replaced by new 3D-printed parts with

shock-absorbing properties. A specific “4Savane” logo can be seen on the side of the vehicle, while the tailgate states its identity as a 4x4.

The interior features a sophisticated design, with seats in Deep Brown refined textile (TEP) fabric. At the top of the backrest, a quilted pattern of number 4s in tonal hues adds a graphic touch. A houndstooth pattern provides a stylish finish for the backrest trim and lateral reinforcements.

The dashboard is also clad in Deep Brown refined textile. Top-stitching in tonal hues runs in a horizontal line, through to the driver and passenger door panels. A backlit 4Savane logo on the dashboard strip gives the show car its signature.

“True to the spirit of exploration of the Renault 4 Savane from the 1960s, the Renault 4 Savane 4x4 Concept show car pushes the adventurous side of the Renault 4 E-Tech electric to the maximum. Its increased ground clearance and widened tracks are combined with a permanently active allwheel drive system to allow it to tackle the most rugged terrains. With its unique Jade Green color combined with Glossy Black elements and the Deep Brown interior, it adds a chic spirit worthy of ‘gentlemen explorers’ eager for limitless journeys.”

Sandeep Bhambra, Chief Designer Advanced, Ampere & Renault Renault 5 Turbo 3E and Renault 5 Roland-Garros in the spotlight

Following its reveal at the end of the winter, Renault 5 Turbo 3E is taking up residence at Roland-Garros this spring. On display to the public for the first time, in a showcase whose spectacular design is on a par with its exuberant looks, the electric ‘mini-supercar’ will be

decked out in black, yellow and white livery, similar to that of the Renault 5 Turbo that won the Tour of Corsica in 1982. With its 800V architecture and the 555 hp developed by its in-wheel motors, it reflects both the innovative DNA and sporting credentials of the Renault brand.

The enthusiasm around the reveal of Renault 5 Turbo 3E turned into real excitement when orders opened on 22 April. Over 500 customers and 200 dealers have already reserved one of the 1,980 examples available, now with a provisional recommended retail price of €160,000.

Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be taking centre stage with the RolandGarros special series. Elegant and sporty, it pays tribute to the world of tennis and the Roland-Garros tournament. Available in four elegant shades, it features the Cross of Saint Andrew inside and outside, inspired by the architecture of the stadium. On board, the focus remains on RolandGarros with a special light grey upholstery in recycled textile. The front seatbacks feature a heat-embossed Roland-Garros logo, while the centre console includes a clay-coloured induction charging mat.

Renault 5 E-Tech electric RolandGarros is a Comfort Range version, with a 52 kWh battery for a combined range of up to 250 miles.Renault, official transport provider with an 87% electrified fleet

Reflecting its commitment to the mobility of tomorrow, Renault is supporting the ecological transition of the tournament by further reducing its carbon footprint every year. This ambition is supported by a fleet of 187 E-Tech electric full hybrid and E-Tech

vehicles, designed for performance and environmental awareness. The main vehicles in the 87% electrified fleet are Scenic E-Tech electric and Rafale full hybrid E-Tech 200hp. New Renault Espace full hybrid E-Tech 200hp completes the line-up, alongside Renault 4 E-Tech electric, making its debut, and of course the Renault 5 E-Tech electric Roland-Garros special series.

Renault is also taking advantage of the 2025 tournament to continue trialling autonomous shuttles on the open road, in partnership with WeRide. Two autonomous electric minibuses will run between Porte d’Auteuil and the village, serving the many spectators expected.

Ugo Humbert is the new face of “La Lignée Renault” and “Give me 5”

Ugo Humbert, French number 2, is the new face of “La Lignée Renault”. He joins the “Give Me 5” programme, an initiative launched in 2022 to develop access to sport for young people from disadvantaged areas. “Give Me 5” brings together well-known ambassadors to work on projects with a strong social impact, combining sustainable mobility, inclusion and access to sport. Ugo Humbert joins Casper Ruud, No.10 ATP and three-time Grand Slam finalist, Félix Auger-Aliassime, No.19 ATP, Diede de Groot, a wheelchair tennis legend with 42 Grand Slam titles and Luca Van Assche, a French tennis hopeful and winner of the Roland-Garros Junior tournament in 2021. Each tennis court renovated as part of the “Give me 5” programme becomes a meeting place and sports venue, run by local associations with the involvement of the ambassadors, in order to maintain real social impact over the long term.

Special-edition Volkswagen SUVs pack extra style and value

The T-Roc Style Design and Black Edition Plus come with added flair and features compared with the already well-specified Style and Black Editions trims, which they replace.

Both gain improved standard specification over their outgoing counterparts, including 19-inch Misano black alloy wheels, an electric tailgate, rear-view camera, keyless access, a panoramic sunroof and metallic paint with a black roof. The Style Design also gains a design pack – adding black door mirrors to match the roof – and Volkswagen’s IQ. Light matrix headlights that react automatically to oncoming traffic and road conditions to maximise nighttime visibility for drivers.

The additional features on the Black Edition Plus would normally cost £3,225 if ordered as T-Roc options, but come at no extra cost on the newcomer; its price matches the previous Black Edition at £36,515 (on-the-road recommended retail price including VAT).

The Style Design’s additional features would cost £5,520 if ordered as options, but the upgraded model is priced just £1,000 more than the outgoing Style trim, at £33,205 (onthe-road recommended retail price including VAT).

from Volkswagen UK Retailers from Thursday 22 May.

The T-Roc Style Design and Black Edition Plus can both be ordered

With the previous T-Roc R-Line no longer available to order, the two new special editions sit between the entrylevel T-Roc Life (£29,315) and Match

(£29,490), and the high-performance T-Roc R and R Black Edition (£45,390 and £46,640 respectively, all onthe-road recommended retail prices including VAT).

Fresh plans to extend contentious Pembrokeshire holiday park

FRESH plans for a Pembrokeshire holiday park extension have been submitted after a high court judgement overturned a council approval against repeated officer recommendations for refusal.

In late 2023 councillors approved a contentious application by Heritage Leisure Development (Wales) Ltd for works including the installation of 48 bases for holiday lodges, a spa facility at a former pub, holiday apartments, a café and cycle hire, equestrian stables, a manège and an associated office at Heritage Park, Pleasant Valley/Stepaside.

It was said the scheme, next to the historic remains of the 19th century Stepaside ironworks and colliery, would create 44 jobs.

The final decision was made at full council after members of the planning committee had twice supported the scheme against officer recommendations of refusal, based on the Local Development Plan, included the site being outside a settlement area.

Approval was given, by 37 votes to 16, with two abstentions, as it was considered that greater weight should be afforded to economic benefits of the scheme rather than policy.

Since that approval, a successful legal challenge was launched by Stepaside & Pleasant Valley Residents’ Group (SPVRG Ltd), who had objected to the original application.

A March High Court hearing presided by Judge Jarman KC recently ruled against the council decision, quashing that approval, and saying “the reason given by the council did not deal

adequately with the important principal issues of development in the countryside, sustainability and precedent”.

It added: “Nor did it deal adequately with the important principal issue of the extent to which detrimental impact on existing sites was or should be taken into account when weighing the economic benefit of the proposed development.

The economic assessment of the interested party expressly dealt with the latter, but not the former.”

It said the “major departure from countryside and sustainability policies is likely to have a lasting relevance for the question of policy in future cases,” and the “council’s

resolution [was] simply to endorse the resolution of the planning committee, which predated the fuller report of the head of planning to the council.”

A fresh application has now been submitted by Heritage Leisure Development (Wales) Ltd, through agent Lichfields, which is identical to that previously approved, aimed at addressing issues raised in the recent judgement.

In its lengthy submissions, Lichfields says “it is clear that members can reach a decision that is contrary to the development plan without setting a precedent”.

It adds: “However, given that there remains a conflict with the plan policies, there is also a need to consider the nature of the 2024 scheme that comprise unique circumstances that mean

that the decision would not set a precedent.”

Listing a long list of ‘unique circumstances’ reasons, it says: “Together the application offers a unique development which, when considered in its entirety, is a bespoke offering that means that there are specific reasons why the proposed development at Heritage Park should be granted and that in doing so, this will not be setting a precedent for future decisions.”

It finishes: “The council has already granted planning permission for the development with members having grappled with many of the issues raised in the judgment. We would welcome the council reaching the same decision while also setting out the requirements raised in the judgment as part of the reasons for granting planning permission.

“This will ensure that there can be no further delays to the delivery of the proposed development and investment being made at Heritage Park while supporting the wider economic development and community offer for the local area and Pembrokeshire as a whole.”

Amroth Community Council has once again objected; councillors proposing the scheme be ‘called in’ for decision by Welsh Government organisation Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW).

The latest application will be considered by county planners at a later date.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

New Barti BBQ sauce launches at Angle’s iconic Old Point House

A FLAvOUR-packed celebration took place at The Old Point House in Angle on Saturday (May 17) for the official launch of a new

Barti Spiced Rum BBQ Sauce – a collaboration between Barti Rum, the Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company and Pembrokeshire Chilli

Farm.

The event, held at the historic 16thcentury pub perched on the shoreline of East Angle Bay, brought together locals and visitors for an afternoon of food, music and sea air – with live entertainment from The Connections adding to the lively atmosphere.

Guests were treated to a one-off menu featuring slow-cooked belly pork sandwiches glazed in the new Barti BBQ sauce, served with Point House Kitchen salads, house pickles and Pembrokeshire potatoes. A Barti Rum Punch was also served, with vegetarian alternatives available.

The new barbecue sauce – infused with the brand’s popular spiced rum –is described by the company as smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy. It is suitable for vegans and gluten-free, and is now available to purchase online and through selected local retailers.

A spokesperson for Barti Rum said: “This new sauce is a proper Pembrokeshire collaboration – made with seaweed, local chilli, and of course

our rum. It’s the perfect addition to any summer barbecue.”

The Old Point House, which reopened in recent years under the stewardship of the Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company, has become a destination for those seeking local seafood and distinctive coastal cuisine.

The Herald understands that more collaborative events are planned throughout the summer season, with further product launches on the horizon.

Plan to rescue Oakwood revealed as local man makes bid to save park

A PEMBROKESHIRE resident has launched a bold rescue plan to bring Oakwood Theme Park back to life — just two months after its shock closure was announced.

Oakwood, Wales’ largest theme park, closed its doors suddenly on March 4 after four decades of family fun. The site, owned by Spanish firm Aspro Parks, had faced a sharp decline in visitor numbers and growing financial challenges in recent years.

But now, a new proposal has been submitted by a local group known as Richens Leisure Projects (RLP), which aims to restore Oakwood to its former glory and turn it into a flagship attraction once again.

The man behind the bid, who wishes to remain anonymous, said the project is deeply personal. “I grew up in west Wales,” he told The Herald. “I remember every queue, every hill climb, every first drop. Oakwood wasn’t just a theme park — it was a rite of passage for so many children in Wales. You didn’t just go there. You remembered it.”

RLP says its proposal includes a phased investment plan, promising to repair and update ageing infrastructure, reintroduce popular rides, and generate over 100 seasonal jobs in the local economy.

“This isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about rebuilding pride. It’s about giving today’s kids the same memories we had, but doing it with proper community backing and long-term thinking,” the group said.

Since its closure, Oakwood has been stripped of several well-known attractions, and the future of the site

remains unclear. However, the new bid aims to change that, and discussions with Aspro Parks have been initiated.

“We’re not here to pressure anyone,” RLP said. “We’re trying to do things properly and respectfully. But if the park’s future is undecided, we’re ready to step in. What we’ve put forward isn’t just an idea — it’s a fully costed, deliverable plan that can begin immediately if given the green light.”

Asked about funding, the group said it would not disclose specific backers at this stage due to the uncertain ownership position. However, it claims the business case is robust and based on professional financial modelling.

The campaign has already attracted

support from local residents, many of whom were shocked by the park’s closure. A petition launched just days after the announcement gathered thousands of signatures.

RLP added: “We’ve kept this quiet until now, out of respect for the owners and the park’s legacy. But the time has come to show people that there is a serious option on the table. This doesn’t have to be the end for Oakwood — it can be the start of something new.”

The Herald contacted Aspro Parks for comment but had received no response at the time of going to press.

Background

Oakwood Theme Park first opened in 1987 as a small family attraction

before expanding dramatically during the 1990s and early 2000s. It was home to popular rides including Megafobia, Hydro, and Speed, and welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors each year at its peak.

In recent years, however, the park faced growing criticism over ageing infrastructure, rising prices, and the closure of key attractions. In March this year, its owners confirmed that keeping the park open was no longer viable. Whether the new rescue plan will be accepted remains to be seen — but for many in Pembrokeshire, it offers a glimmer of hope that the thrills and laughter of Oakwood might one day return.

Welsh Ambulance Service invites public to next Board meeting

THE WELSH AMBULANCE SERvICE will hold its next bimonthly Board meeting on Thursday 29 May 2025, and members of the public are invited to attend virtually via Microsoft Teams.

A moving contribution will come from Corinne and Laurence Cope, the parents of nine-yearold Dylan Cope, who tragically died of sepsis in December 2022. They will speak about their experience contacting NHS 111 Wales and raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis.

Senior leaders at the Trust will also present updates on a new ambulance performance framework, due to be introduced in July. The revised approach will move away from traditional response time targets and focus instead on patient outcomes. There will also be discussion on the evolution of the Trust’s clinical model to improve patient safety and preserve ambulance capacity for the most urgent cases.

The meeting will include a live Q&A session, offering members of the public the opportunity to pose questions directly to Board members.

Colin Dennis, Chair of the

Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “Our Board meetings are an important part of how we operate openly and transparently, and I encourage anyone with an interest in our work to join us virtually.

“They’re a chance to stay informed about the progress

we’re making and the challenges we face as we continue to evolve ambulance services for people in Wales, as well as an opportunity to put questions to our decisionmakers.”

The meeting begins at 9:30am, and the link to join will be available 10 minutes before

the start time. Questions for the Board can be submitted in advance by emailing AMB_ AskUs@wales.nhs.uk no later than Wednesday 28 May 2025.

The meeting agenda will be published on the Welsh Ambulance Service website in the days leading up to the event.

Award-winning Arts Boost returns to support young people’s mental health

THE INNOvATIvE Arts Boost programme is returning in 2025 to support children and young people across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire who are receiving help from the Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (S-CAMHS).

Launched in 2022 by Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB), Arts Boost was developed in response to a sharp rise in the

number of young people seeking mental health support. Now in its fourth year, the award-winning initiative continues to use the arts to reduce emotional distress and promote better mental health. The programme is delivered in partnership with Span Arts (Pembrokeshire), People Speak Up (Carmarthenshire), and Small World Theatre (Ceredigion). Together, they provide a variety of creative sessions for 12- to 18-year-olds known to

S-CAMHS and experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges.

Through a flexible model called Creative Freestyling, participants can choose from a wide range of expressive art forms, including animation, aerial performance, journaling, clay modelling, painting, drawing, and DJ’ing.

The programme has already received national recognition.

In October 2023, Arts Boost was named runner-up in the Commissioning for Patient Experience category at the Patient Experience Network National Awards, held at the University of Birmingham. These prestigious awards are the only UK accolades dedicated to recognising best practice in patient experience across health and social care.

Katie O’Shea, Psychological Therapies Lead Specialist at S-CAMHS, said at the time:

“We are thrilled that this innovative project has been awarded for excellence in care for patient experience. Our success is down to the exceptional collaboration with our arts in health partners and the skill of the commissioned

artists in creating safe, nurturing spaces for our young people.”

Angela Lodwick, Assistant Director of Mental Health and Learning Disabilities at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “It is wonderful to see Arts Boost return for a fourth year. Over the past three years, we’ve seen how creative engagement helps improve young people’s wellbeing, reduce their distress, and build life-long coping skills.”

The programme is open to anyone aged 12–18 currently under the care of S-CAMHS in the Hywel Dda area. Families are encouraged to speak to their Primary Mental Health Clinician for more details or contact Katie O’Shea, Lead for Psychological Therapies at S-CAMHS, on 01267 674450.

Arts Boost is underpinned by a growing body of research that highlights the positive impact of the arts on wellbeing, selfconfidence, self-esteem, and emotional expression. Hywel Dda UHB continues to contribute its findings from Arts Boost to the national Arts and Minds programme, funded by the Baring Foundation and the Arts Council of Wales.

Half of adults unaware of key dementia symptom

ALMOST half of adults in Wales are unaware that problems with vision can be a common symptom of dementia, according to new research released by Alzheimer’s Society Cymru.

The figures come as Dementia Action Week (May 19–24) begins, with the charity aiming to raise awareness of the condition and encourage earlier diagnosis. An estimated 50,000 people are currently living with dementia in Wales — but nearly half of them do not have a formal diagnosis.

The new data reveals that 50 per cent of Welsh adults did not recognise changes in vision as a symptom of dementia. One in ten people surveyed could not identify a single common symptom.

Vision-related symptoms can include difficulty judging distances, trouble recognising objects, and misinterpreting patterns or reflections. Larger print may also become harder to read.

Other commonly overlooked signs include changes in mood or communication difficulties. Across the UK, only 61 per cent of adults recognised problems with communication as a symptom, and 64 per cent identified mood changes.

Rachel Nelson, Country Manager for Alzheimer’s Society Cymru, said: “At Alzheimer’s Society, we see too

many people delaying seeking a diagnosis because they’re scared or unsure what it will mean.

“A diagnosis is not the end. It’s the beginning of getting the right support, making informed choices and living well.

“That’s why this Dementia Action Week, we’re encouraging everyone to learn more about the symptoms of dementia and to seek help if they notice changes in themselves or someone close to them.”

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is promoting a free online symptom checklist to help people better understand the warning signs and take action.

Corinne Mills, Interim CEO of Alzheimer’s Society, added: “More than a third of people with dementia don’t have a diagnosis, meaning they’re missing out on the vital care, support, and treatment they need.

“Our research shows that 97 per cent of people affected by dementia

saw a benefit in getting a diagnoss.” The six most common symptoms of dementia include:

• Memory loss – especially of recent events

• Difficulty organising thoughts – trouble making decisions or solving problems

• Problems with communication –struggling to find the right words or follow conversations

• Problems with vision – difficulty judging distances or seeing edges of objects

• Confusion about time or place –losing track of the day or forgetting where they are

• Changes in mood or personality – becoming unusually anxious, irritable, or withdrawn

The charity emphasises that dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and early diagnosis allows access to treatments, care options, and the ability to plan ahead — including appointing a power of attorney and managing finances.

To check symptoms or get support, visit alzheimers.org.uk/checklist or call the Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456. Welsh language support is available on 03300 947 400.

Senedd demands action to protect firefighters from cancer risks

SENEDD Members called for annual health checks for firefighters in Wales, with a study showing instances of cancer are up to 323% higher than the general population.

Luke Fletcher, who has been campaigning on the issue over the past two years, led a debate in the Senedd on a cross-party motion calling for urgent action.

“The dangers our firefighters face do not end once the flames are out,” said Mr Fletcher.

“Fire creates a cocktail of toxic chemicals that are known to increase the risk of cancers and other lifethreatening illnesses.”

The Plaid Cymru politician pointed to research commissioned by the Fire Brigades Union, showing firefighters aged 35 to 39 faced an age-specific cancer rate up to 323% higher.

Mr Fletcher added: “Firefighters serving 15 years or more were almost twice as likely to develop cancer than those who served less time.”

Calling for urgent reform to safeguard firefighters’ health, he said: “Across the world, countries like the US, Canada and Australia have recognised the link between exposure to toxic effluents and the increased incidence of cancer among firefighters.

“Legislation in these countries ensures firefighters not only receive

fire service people and the families who have lost loved ones because of this occupational risk.”

the road for the next government to resolve. The risk, the danger and the responsibility sit firmly at the government’s door – and action must be taken.”

Responding to the May 14 debate for the Welsh Government, Jayne Bryant said ministers support the Fire Brigades Union campaign to reduce the risk of cancers firefighters face.

The housing and local government secretary told the Senedd all three fire and rescue services in Wales provide regular fitness and medical checks.

workplace compensation when illness strikes but also have access to routine medical monitoring, designed to catch illnesses early. Yet here in Wales, as across the UK, little such support exists.”

Mr Fletcher criticised Welsh ministers for not committing to a specific health monitoring programme: “Every delay now carries consequences and we just need to get on with it.

“Further delays simply translate into more deaths due to cancer. The evidence is there, the stories are there – and the risk is very real.”

He concluded: “Quite simply, it is the right thing to do, to do right by our

Altaf Hussain, a surgeon-turnedSenedd Member, said: “Firefighters regularly put their health on the line to deal with threats to ours and we regularly let them down.”

The Conservative added: “We, at the very least, owe this service a commitment to do everything to minimise and mitigate the risk of the job.

“That includes ensuring they are protected from toxins as well as monitored for exposure. This is not an issue that should be left to individual fire and rescue authorities.”

Rhys ab Owen, who sits as an independent, said: “The issues raised in this report cannot be kicked down

But Ms Bryant, whose responsibilities include fire services, stated the UK National Screening Committee does not recommend targeted screening programmes based on occupation.

She said Isabel Oliver, who was appointed the chief medical officer for Wales In January, will work with experts and relevant UK bodies to consider the evidence

“I’d like to reassure the Senedd that we remain fully committed to addressing these risks as effectively as possible,” she said. “We will continue to work in social partnership with employers and unions to do so.”

Senedd Members voted 30-0 in favour of the motion, with 14 Labour members and the Conservatives’ Tom Giffard abstaining.

Supporting early diagnosis: Alzheimer’s Society Cymru urges people to check symptoms and seek help during Dementia Action Week (Pic: Alzheimer’s Society).

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Natural Resources Wales criticised over incident response cuts, closures and tax blunder

A SENEDD committee has issued a scathing report on Natural Resources Wales (NRW), accusing the body of failing to uphold its environmental responsibilities and mishandling both public funds and public trust.

The report, published this week by the Senedd’s Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure Committee, raises “grave concern” over NRW’s decision to stop responding to so-called lowcategory incidents—including flytipping, minor chemical spills, and low-level water pollution.

NRW claims these incidents, which form the bulk of reports to its front-line teams, usually result in no serious environmental harm. The agency says it wants to focus instead on major breaches and preventative work.

But the Committee warned that such an approach risks allowing cumulative damage to the Welsh environment.

“We are gravely concerned that Natural Resources Wales is adopting a higher tolerance of risk,” the report states. “Low-level pollution can still have a damaging impact, especially over time. This change in approach could result in real harm to our natural environment.”

STRETCHED RESOURCES, LEGAL OBLIGATIONS

The report acknowledges that funding pressures have left NRW

“stretched too thin” to meet its legal duties. However, it insists that consistent enforcement and visible presence across Wales are essential.

vISITOR CENTRE CLOSURES CRITICISED

The Committee also condemned NRW’s decision to close three key visitor centres—at Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Ynyslas, and Coed y Brenin—without a clear plan to replace services.

Although NRW is now seeking commercial partners to take over food and beverage operations

at the sites, the report states the closures were “premature” and have damaged public confidence.

“New proposals should have been developed before the centres were closed,” the report says. “We urge NRW to publish a clear timetable and communicate transparently with affected communities.”

£19 MILLION TAx BLUNDER

A separate section of the report highlights a serious financial error. NRW’s failure to correctly follow IR35 tax rules for contractors led to the Welsh Government being

forced to pay £19 million to HMRC.

“This is a serious governance failure,” the Committee said. “It is highly regrettable that taxpayers’ money is being diverted from vital services to pay for such errors.”

NRW said it has since overhauled its procedures and used external consultants to avoid a repeat. But the Committee is calling for a full independent review and further reassurances.

NRW DEFENDS CHANGES

In a statement issued on Tuesday (May 20), interim chief executive Ceri Davies defended staff and emphasised ongoing reforms.

“We are not standing still,” she said. “We’re focused on building a more agile and futureready organisation. Our goal is to make sure every pound we spend delivers maximum environmental value.”

NRW confirmed it will prioritise incidents that pose the greatest risk to public health or the environment, with an increasing focus on prevention and compliance.

While some visitor centres are now unstaffed, public access to trails, car parks and play areas remains open. NRW says it is working with local businesses and communities to provide replacement services.

With Wales facing intensifying threats from climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, the report concludes that robust and proactive environmental oversight is more vital than ever—and that NRW must urgently rebuild trust and capacity.

‘Landmark’ homelessness bill ‘a missed opportunity’

SENEDD Members welcomed a bill aimed at ending homelessness in Wales but warned of missed opportunities to support veterans, prisoners and those discharged from hospital.

Jayne Bryant gave a statement on the introduction of the homelessness bill which aims to increase access to services and prioritise social housing for those most in need.

With around 11,000 people currently housed in emergency temporary accommodation, Wales’ housing secretary told the Senedd: “Across Western Europe and beyond, homelessness poses an escalating and urgent challenge.

“It is a devastating and pervasive issue. It shortens lives and isolates people from their communities. It impacts people’s health, mental wellbeing, people’s ability to engage in work or with the economy, or indeed on educational outcomes.”

Ms Bryant, who is also responsible for councils, said the pandemic revealed a hidden homelessness need, placing unsustainable pressure on households and services.

“This is why reform is absolutely necessary,” she said, describing the “landmark” bill as an important step towards a bold vision of a Wales free from homelessness.

She explained that the bill, “which is rooted in evidence and experience”, will move away from a system that responds to crises to one focused on early identification and prevention.

She said the priority need and intentionality tests for homelessness support – which have been criticised as “unjust and immoral” for setting a high threshold – will be abolished.

Ms Bryant was particularly proud of a new duty in the bill on councils to take reasonable steps to secure suitable accommodation for young people transitioning from care.

“These reforms are ambitious,” she said. “They have to be to match the scale of the challenge. They will take time to implement. This is not a quick fix.”

Laura Anne Jones, the Conservatives’ shadow housing secretary, broadly welcomed the “much-needed” reforms, particularly the commitment to care leavers.

But she expressed concerns about ministers not taking forward proposals to specifically support those leaving hospital or custody – “two of the most high-risk groups”.

“Ignoring these proposals misses a vital opportunity for a joined-up approach,” she warned.

Ms Jones asked: “What message does that send, that support for people leaving NHS care or prison has been dropped from our most significant homelessness reforms in years?”

She added: “While we support these reforms, let’s not pretend they solve the

officials are working on regulations to stop veterans being “pushed down the list for social housing just because they do not have a local link”.

most vulnerable people down – with one in four young care leavers homeless, so I am pleased to see this bill focusing on those at particular risk.”

deeper crisis that we face… the chronic shortage of social housing in Wales.”

She called for radical levels of investment to deliver desperately needed housing, pointing out that the Welsh Government is set to miss its target of 20,000 social homes by 2026.

Ms Jones raised concerns about an Audit Wales report, which suggested between £580m and £740m extra could be required to deliver on the target.

Calling for an exemption, she warned that the local connection test for support could discriminate against veterans who may not live near family nor friends.

“We all owe them a debt, not just local communities,” she said, pointing out that the UK Government removed the local connection rule for veterans in England.

Ms Bryant argued that ensuring nobody is discharged from hospital into homelessness can best be achieved by using existing mechanisms rather than creating a new duty.

She said guidance will be introduced to stop people being discharged onto the streets or stuck in hospitals due to a lack of suitable housing.

Ms Bryant agreed the bill must be underpinned by an increased supply of social homes, with a record £2bn set to be invested from 2021 to 2026.

Turning to veterans, she said the bill provides powers for ministers to reconsider certain elements including problems associated with the local connection test.

Ms Bryant told the Senedd her

The bill was part of the now-collapsed cooperation agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru in return for support to pass budgets.

Siân Gwenllian, Plaid Cymru’s shadow housing secretary, welcomed the trauma-informed, person-centred approach taken in the bill.

She said: “We have to confront the situation… because the figures on homelessness today are truly staggering. There are more than 11,000 people in temporary accommodation, including over 2,600 and 400 children living in B&Bs or hotels.

“At the moment, we are letting the

Warning of a lack of social housing, Ms Gwenllian told the Senedd: “You as a government have to recognise that you have entirely failed to meet your own targets.”

Ms Bryant stressed: “Legislation alone can’t end homelessness… we do recognise that supply and social housing has a really important role to play.”

Closing her statement on May 20, the Labour minister said: “This is a government that cares about the future of Wales – a future where homelessness is confined to the history books. These reforms take us closer to realising that vision.”

Plaid Cymru MS Siân Gwenllian

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

W ITH ANDREW LyE

Last week in the House of Commons, the Liberal Democrats forced a vote on a policy that would scrap the ban on asylum seekers working if they had waited for a decision on their claim for 3 months. Sadly, it was blocked by an alliance of Conservative, Labour and Reform MPs – all voting against the national interest just so they could appear anti-immigration.

The UK has a long, proud history of welcoming newcomers – whether people seeking to build their lives here, or refugees fleeing war and persecution. People from all over the world have greatly enriched our economy, our culture and our communities.

We must do everything in our power to protect this legacy - not least after everything the Conservatives did to trash it.

They closed down safe and legal routes for refugees, putting more power in the hands of traffickers. They allowed the asylum backlog to balloon on their watch, trapping asylum seekers in limbo for months or even years and left taxpayers complaining at the hotels costs. And they threatened the fundamental right to asylum with their cruel Illegal Migration Act and failed Rwanda scheme.

Now, the Labour government has a real opportunity to fix this mess and start building a more compassionate, effective system. But sadly, they have so far failed to bring forward the positive change that people deserve.

Lisa Smart MP, the Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Home Affairs said:-

“I’m deeply proud of our party’s history of standing up for people fleeing war and persecution in particular. From getting new visas introduced for Hong Kongers coming to the UK, to ending the previous

Labour Government’s practice of detaining children for immigration purposes, Liberal Democrats have long been at the forefront of securing change.

“I’m determined that we continue in this proud tradition - which is why I’ve been making these same arguments as the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill passed through Parliament.

First and foremost, that means pushing for more safe and legal routes for refugees.

Whether that’s establishing new humanitarian travel permits, or continuing Lib Dem peer Sally Hamwee’s tireless efforts to extend family reunion rights. This will be crucial for taking power out of the hands of the criminal trafficking gangs responsible for dangerous crossings in the Channel.

“At the same time, we need an asylum system that makes decisions fairly and swiftly - which is why we’ve been calling to tackle the backlog by establishing a dedicated unit to improve the speed and quality of asylum decision-making.

“And we will keep pushing Labour to take the action that’s needed. If they really cared about improving integration, they would have backed our amendment this week that would have scrapped the ban on asylum seekers working. But our party won’t give up, and will now take this fight to the House of Lords.

In the face of divisive and destructive politics, it is more important than ever that the Liberal Democrats continue to offer a liberal alternative. One that is kind and compassionatestanding up for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, and ensuring all migrants are treated with dignity and respect like they deserve. I am determined to do everything in my power to ensure this is the case.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Trade Deals Show Brexit UK is Now a

Rule Taker

SPEAKING in Westminster in March 2023, I labelled the Northern Ireland deal signed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as the beginning of the unwinding of the damage caused by the extreme Brexit pursued by the previous Prime Minister, Boris Johnson. Although limited in scope, it was the beginning of the long march back to sanity, writes Jonathan Edwards.

The Labour UK Government took further steps this week as part of the EU-UK summit. The most welcome element of the announcement was an openended sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement to slash red tape on food and drink exports and imports between the UK and the EU. In many ways, the complexities of the situation on the island of Ireland make this a commonsense decision, which will be hugely beneficial for Welsh food producers.

Someone like me would argue that the UK Government should be moving faster to reintegrate. Reports indicate that this week’s agreement will be worth a measly 0.3% to the UK in GDP by 2040, compared to the OBR calculations that Brexit will hit the UK economy by 4% over the long term.

The experiment in splendid isolationism has completely failed, as was obvious from the start, and the UK will eventually have to rebuild the sabotaged bridges to the continent.

What seems completely obvious to most impartial observers, therefore, overlooks the political caution of a Labour

party wary of upsetting its supporters who flocked to the Brexit banner. We are in a game whereby focus groups are leading policy, not policy-leading people. The Prime Minister would be better advised to say it as it is: the British public was sold a pup, and it was a decade overdue to call out the whole farce. This would have the added benefit of forcing Mr Farage to defend his record.

The Tory/Reform attack line of so-called ‘surrender’ was completely pathetic and completely foreseeable. That would have been the attack line no matter what had been agreed, so the UK Government may as well have gone further and faster. Regardless, this week’s announcement is a step in the right direction and all steps, even baby ones, should be welcomed.

Developments follow other trade announcements, particularly an agreement with the United States. Although limited in scope, it was good optics for the Labour Party after the Tories failed to land a post-Brexit deal with the States. However, the agreement only lessened the impact of Trumpian tariffs on products such as cars. In reality, Mr Trump’s bully-boy tactics have worked.

However, I would like to focus on how both agreements highlight the weakness of the UK trade position post-Brexit. Progress with the EU requires “dynamic alignment”—which means the UK following rules set by Brussels—in areas covering the SPS deal, emissions trading

and potential cooperation in the electricity market.

Dynamic alignment was the term used by Theresa May to support her policy of adopting EU regulatory standards, thereby preventing divergence and, consequently, the need for checks on the economic border. From what I can see, the deal this week is less ambitious in scope than the May deal, so Starmer delivered an agreement that was less ambitious than the House of Commons rejection in 2018. Regardless, it is a concession that if the UK wants access to EU markets, it must follow their rules.

In terms of the US deal, there has been extensive reporting worldwide about how the agreement requires the UK to accept US restrictions on supply chain security and ownership of certain assets. These protocols are targeted at China. Essentially, the US now has a veto over the UK’s trade policy with a third country. I must have missed the white flag jibes.

This is unprecedented in international trade deals and suggests that the new US Administration intends to utilise trade agreements with individual countries as part of a more aggressive, comprehensive strategy aimed at its primary rival.

Forget the optics. As many of us warned at the time, far from being a swashbuckling, independent trading nation, Brexit Britannia finds itself at the mercy of far larger predators, able to undermine British sovereignty at will.

Council shifts stance after backlash over Welsh education survey

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL has revised its position following mounting criticism over its handling of Welsh-medium education policy, agreeing to broaden the scope of its planned parental survey.

The move comes after a political and public backlash to comments made during the Council Cabinet’s April meeting, where Deputy Leader Paul Miller suggested that some parents were choosing Welsh-medium schools not for the language but for newer facilities. His remarks, and the nature of the Cabinet debate, drew sharp criticism from opposition leader Cllr Huw Murphy, the Welsh Language Commissioner, and Cabinet Secretary for the Welsh Language and Culture, Mark Drakeford.

Critics accused the Cabinet of taking an “anti-Welsh” tone and of singling out parents who chose Welsh-medium education. The row escalated after Mr Drakeford told BBC Cymru: “I can’t see why we would ask parents why they choose Welsh or why they choose English… Local authorities should be making the case for choosing Welshmedium education, not questioning those who do.”

Now, in an apparent attempt to address those concerns and reset the debate, the Council has issued a fresh statement following its Cabinet meeting on Wednesday (May 21). It confirms that data collection will be considered for all parents, not just those opting for Welsh-medium education.

A Council spokesperson said: “Cabinet has today agreed to explore the collection of information from all parents, regardless of language preference, in order to better understand school choice across the county.”

The updated resolution now asks the Director of Education to explore methods for capturing data on the relative importance of different factors influencing school choice. These include language preference, learning outcomes, quality of facilities, transport provision, and support for pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALN).

The Council says the data will help

inform future decisions on modernising the school estate, ensuring they reflect the priorities of a broad and representative sample of parents.

Despite the softened stance, the issue remains politically sensitive. Cllr Huw Murphy, whose formal “callin” prompted the Council to revisit its earlier decision, has argued that any perception of bias against Welshmedium provision risks undermining public trust and the Council’s obligations under the Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP).

The Welsh Language Commissioner had also expressed concern over

the original approach, stating that questioning only parents choosing Welsh-medium schools was “not compatible” with the Council’s statutory duties.

The revised position may go some way toward cooling tensions, but the debate has already highlighted deeper divisions over language policy, school choice, and how local authorities should approach data collection in the context of bilingual education.

The Herald will continue to follow developments closely as the Council works through the next phase of its data-gathering plans.

Starmer U-turns on winter fuel payment cuts as Age Cymru demands urgent clarity

THE UK GOvERNMENT has announced a reversal of last year’s controversial cuts to Winter Fuel Payments, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirming during Prime Minister’s Questions that more pensioners will now be eligible for support this coming winter.

The U-turn follows widespread criticism of the means-testing approach introduced last year, which excluded millions of older people from receiving the payment. In Wales, the move was heavily criticised by charities, including Age Cymru, which now says the government must act quickly to restore support before winter returns.

Victoria Lloyd, Chief Executive of Age Cymru, welcomed the Prime Minister’s remarks but cautioned that “the detail is needed” to ensure no one is left behind.

“We welcome the Prime Minister’s comments and commitment to change,” she said. “But we must be confident that any policy change is going to support those older people that we know are struggling without this vital payment.”

Last winter, Age Cymru saw a surge in distress among older people across Wales, with many too frightened to turn on their heating due to soaring bills

and reduced support. The charity says the situation left vulnerable individuals in misery and placed their health at serious risk.

Ms Lloyd said: “Means-testing Winter Fuel Payments in the way the UK Government announced last summer resulted in many pensioners

on low incomes missing out on money they simply couldn’t afford to lose.”

“We said last autumn that we were especially worried about the welfare of older people entitled to Pension Credit but not claiming it; those whose incomes were meagre but just above the threshold; and others who are

seriously unwell and whose heating bills are exceptionally high because they cannot allow themselves to get cold.”

The Prime Minister’s comments come just six months ahead of the next winter season. Ms Lloyd warned that time is running out to develop a fair and effective replacement.

“We will judge the success of any new policy proposals by the extent to which they help vulnerable older people and those on low and modest incomes to heat their homes adequately next winter,” she said.

Age Cymru is also calling for the introduction of a social energy tariff as a longer-term measure to protect those most at risk, but says immediate relief is now essential.

Sir Keir Starmer, speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday (May 21), confirmed the U-turn, stating that he wants “more pensioners to be eligible for the benefit” after last year’s cuts were met with backlash from older people’s groups and anti-poverty campaigners.

With public confidence shaken, Age Cymru said restoring trust and ensuring that no older person is left in the cold must now be the government’s top priority.

SEND yOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTICES

FOUNDATIONAL ETHICAL TRUTHS

DEAR SIR,

It is vital that all teenagers in UK schools are taught the foundational ethical truths of our universe—truths revealed through the history of philosophy and affirmed by science and metaphysics, as shown by figures such as Isaac Newton.

Consider these examples of profound moral failure throughout human history:

1. The burning of dissenters at the stake in the 16th and 17th centuries;

2. The passing of laws by UK Conservative peers and MPs to legalise black slavery in the 1820s;

3. The Nazi regime’s systematic murder of 5

million Jews in the 1940s simply for being Jewish;

The brutal murder and hostage-taking of innocents by Hamas, who cynically shield themselves behind children; The killing of children by Israeli forces, even when their enemy hides among them— actions that betray a lack of moral learning from history, however justified the desire to eliminate Hamas.

These are just some examples of inhumanity— behaviours more depraved than anything found in the animal kingdom. They stand in direct opposition to the ethical and rational order of the universe revealed through philosophical inquiry.

Today, market-driven capitalism dominates as a purely pragmatic worldview, concerned only with profit—a

vulnerable communities. Our simple approach – providing a daily meal in school – not only tackles hunger, but also draws children into the classroom, giving them the energy to learn and hope for a better future.

Today, with the growing impact of conflict, climate change, and the global cost-ofliving crisis, our mission is more urgent than ever. That’s why I’m reaching out to your readers with a heartfelt request: please consider setting up a monthly gift to Mary’s Meals.

language many understand, yet one entirely devoid of ethical principles. This narrow focus has replaced the ethical teachings once considered fundamental.

Even if many of us were never taught these truths, history still offers us brutal, undeniable facts that should provoke thought, reflection, and, ultimately, a renewed commitment to ethical education.

C.N. WESTERMAN

ONE GIFT. THREE TIMES THE IMPACT FOR HUNGRy CHILDREN THIS MAy

DEAR SIR,

At Mary’s Meals, we serve nutritious school meals to children living in some of the world’s poorest and most

Until 31 May, a generous supporter has pledged to triple your first three monthly donations. This means a commitment of just £5 a month will have the power of £15 –enough to feed 150 children during the first three months. As each meal costs just 10p, every pound truly makes a difference. Regular donations are the backbone of our work. They allow us to plan ahead, grow our programmes, and keep our promise to the 2.6 million children we already serve daily. Children like 11-year-old Grace in Zimbabwe, who lives with her 83-year-old great-grandmother, Elly. The region’s severe drought has left many families struggling to survive. For Grace, the hot mug of porridge she receives at school each morning is often her only meal – but it transforms her day.

“I can concentrate better,” she says. “I can read more when my tummy is full. When I’m older, I want to be a teacher.”

Her great-grandmother Elly adds: “Everyone is happy about the porridge. It’s the biggest difference I’ve seen in this community.”

Too many children like Grace are still waiting. Your readers can help us reach them – by setting up a monthly gift via Direct Debit or their employer’s payroll giving scheme. Together, we can give more children food, education, and a brighter future.

With heartfelt thanks, Marie Doyle Executive Director, Mary’s Meals UK

PICTURE OF THE WEEK!

Puffins on skomer by Lucy crockford

Death Notices

Family flowers only.

PATRICIA ANN BOWEN

PAT passed away suddenly on the 2nd of May aged 85 years.

A dearly loved wife, mother and grandmother, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

Her funeral service will take place on Tuesday 27th May at 2.00pm in St. Ismael’s Church, Uzmaston followed by 3.15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only, donations if desired to Safe Haven for Donkeys and may be sent to www. safehaven4donkeys.org in memory of Pat Bowen.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

PRISCILLA STEWART

P EACEFULLY at Withybush Hospital on Friday, 9th of May, Pris formerly of Pant y Caws, Glandy cross and Ffynnon- Heulog, Tegryn.

Beloved wife of the late Malcolm, and sister to Will.

Loving mother and mother- inlaw to Edward, Zoe, Kate, Dudley, James, Emma, Liz and Greg.

Loving grandmother to Daniel, Dylan, Pip, Bethan, Drew, Anwyn, Elis, Llewyn and Idris.

Funeral service on Friday, 30th of May 2025 at 1.45pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to the ‘Riding for the Disabled Association’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard. Tel: 01348 873250.

WILLIAM (BILLy) yOUNG

SUDDENLY at his home on May 6th, Billy, aged 83 years.

Beloved husband of the late Margaret, dearly loved father and father-in-law of Shaun and Anne, Grant and Serena, Nicola, Craig and Jackie. Much loved Grampy of Max, Ben, Alfie, Evie, Charlie, Lottie, Josh, Alicia and Logun.

Funeral service Friday 23rd May at St.Aidan’s Church Solva at 2.00pm.

Donations, if desired, to “Solva Care” or “British Heart Foundation” c/o W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, 62 New Street, St.Davids, SA62 6SU.

MAByN CHARLTON

IT is with heavy hearts the family wish to inform you of the passing of Mrs Mabyn Charlton, of Stokes Avenue, Haverfordwest.

Mabyn passed away on Friday 2nd May 2025 at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, aged 85 years.

Predeceased by her husband David and her daughter Katherine.

She leaves to mourn, Helen and Nigel (daughter & son-in-law), Julia

and Richard (daughter & son-in-law), Stephen (son-in-law).

Lena Bale (Sister) of Milton Keynes and David Williams (Brother) of Perth, Australia.

Grandchildren and their families; Huw & Katy, Leonie, Ben & Carly, Emma, Thomas, Mark & Lottie.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 3rd June at St. Martin’s Church, Haverfordwest SA61 2EA at 1.00pm followed by interment at Prendergast Cemetery.

Donations in lieu of flowers, for St. Martin’s Church who have been a tower of strength to the family and also Breast Cancer Wales may be sent c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH & 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS who are carrying out the funeral arrangements.

MAUREEN VIOLET BOWLEy

THE death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Wednesday 23rd April of Mrs. Maureen violet Bowley of Bush Street, Pembroke Dock. She was 92.

The devoted and much loved wife of Bill, she will be greatly missed by all her loving family and many friends.

The funeral will take place on Friday 23rd May with a service at St. John’s Church, Pembroke Dock at 1.00.pm followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn

Crematorium at 2.30.pm.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Maureen for Cancer Research may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

G ARETH W ILLIAM T HOMAS

AFTER a short illness, Gareth William Thomas - Gary, of 11 Bloomfield Gardens Narberth, passed away peacefully at home with his family around him, on Saturday 3rd May 2025, aged 90.

Devoted Husband of Ann Cherished Dad to Sharron and Joanne and Father- in- law to Bob and Andrew Adored ‘Gramps’ to Emma, Carys and Bethan Treasured brother of Royce and the late Owen and Sheila

The funeral service will take place on Friday 30th May 2025, at 1.00pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

All are welcome to celebrate Gary’s wonderful life, with the family requesting that any colour other than black is worn.

There will be immediate family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired, to Paul Sartori Foundation c/o E.C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, L LANTEG , N ARBERTH SA67 8QH

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SIX NATIONS 2026

BIG CHANGES TO COME

THE SIx NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP is poised for a historic revamp in 2026, with organisers confirming a series of firsts in next year’s fixture list –including the tournament’s inaugural Thursday night match and Wales’ first Friday night clash in Dublin.

Since the introduction of Friday night matches in 2009, only France and Wales have taken up hosting duties under the lights. However, with broadcasters increasingly favouring primetime slots, Ireland will now join that list, welcoming Wales to the Aviva Stadium in Round 4 on Friday, 6 March.

France, who have embraced Friday fixtures in recent years – including their opener against Wales in Paris this year – will host the tournament’s firstever Thursday night encounter. The 2026 Championship will begin with a blockbuster clash between France and Ireland on Thursday, 5 February, kicking off at 8.10pm. However, the specific venue for that historic game has yet to be confirmed.

Wales’ campaign will get off to a challenging start, travelling to Twickenham to face England on Saturday, 7 February. Gatland’s side will be looking to make amends after ending

this year’s tournament with a record 6814 defeat at the hands of their old rivals.

The following weekend sees Wales return to Cardiff for a Sunday afternoon fixture against France, before welcoming Scotland to the Principality Stadium the weekend after.

Next year’s tournament has been shortened by a week, with only one rest weekend included in the schedule. As a result, the opening three rounds will be played across consecutive weekends.

Following the solitary break, Wales will make the trip to Dublin for their Friday night clash with Ireland – a venue they have visited before on a Friday, albeit behind closed doors during the Covidaffected Autumn Nations Series in 2020.

The 2026 edition will conclude with the traditional ‘Super Saturday’ finale on 14 March. Wales will host Italy in Cardiff at 4.40pm, sandwiched between Ireland v Scotland in Dublin and the final showdown of the tournament – France v England under the lights at 8.10pm.

While Ireland have previously played Friday night fixtures against the likes of New Zealand and Argentina during the autumn internationals, this will mark the first time the Six Nations will see a Friday night crowd in Dublin.

SIx NATIONS 2026 FIxTURES

R O u ND 1

France v Ireland

Thursday 5 February, 8.10pm

Italy v Scotland

Saturday 7 February, 2.10pm

England v Wales

Saturday 7 February, 4.40pm

R O u ND 2

Ireland v Italy

Saturday 14 February, 2.10pm

Scotland v England

Saturday 14 February, 4.40pm

Wales v France

Sunday 15 February, 3.10pm

R O u ND 3

England v Ireland

Saturday 21 February, 2.10pm

Wales v Scotland

Saturday 21 February, 4.40pm

France v Italy

Sunday 22 February, 3.10pm

R O u ND 4

Ireland v Wales

Friday 6 March, 8.10pm

Scotland v France

Saturday 7 March, 2.10pm

Italy v England

Saturday 7 March, 4.40pm

R O u ND 5

Ireland v Scotland

Saturday 14 March, 2.10pm

Wales v Italy

Saturday 14 March, 4.40pm

France v England

Saturday 14 March, 8.10pm

Bluebirds book place in uEFA Europa

HAvERFORDWEST COUNTY AFC will once again fly the flag for Pembrokeshire in Europe after a thrilling 3–1 win over Caernarfon Town in the JD Cymru Premier European play-off final on Sunday (May 18).

In front of a passionate home crowd of 1,717 at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium, the Bluebirds produced a composed and clinical performance to book their place in the First Qualifying Round of the 2025–26 UEFA Europa Conference League.

Ben Ahmun opened the scoring for the hosts in the 17th minute with a composed finish, before Dan Hawkins doubled the lead shortly after the half-hour mark. Ahmun sealed the victory with his second of the afternoon in the 85th minute, rounding off a memorable display.

Caernarfon pulled one back deep into injury time through Louis Lloyd (90+4), but it was too little, too late for the visitors, as Haverfordwest celebrated back-toback European qualifications — a historic achievement for the Pembrokeshire club.

This result means Haverfordwest will enter the UEFA Conference League at the First Qualifying Round, with the draw expected in mid-June and matches

scheduled for July.

It continues an impressive rise for the club, who last summer thrilled supporters across Wales with their dramatic European ties against Shkëndija of North Macedonia, narrowly exiting the competition on penalties after a heroic second-leg performance in Cardiff.

The win also cements Haverfordwest’s growing reputation as a force in domestic Welsh football — with a strong squad, local support, and the experience of last year’s European campaign to build on.

Manager reflects on unity, discipline, and a season built on belief

IN the days leading up to Sunday’s playoff final, Haverfordwest County manager Tony Pennock said one thing clearly: “The boys are looking forward to it and will be up for the challenge.”

He wasn’t wrong.

While supporters rightly celebrate a 3–1 win over Caernarfon Town and the return of European football to the club, it’s worth remembering that this moment was forged not in 90 minutes, but across a season

built on togetherness, hard graft, and quiet conviction.

Pennock, reflecting before the final, pointed to signs he’d seen as early as last June.

“From the first session up at the Racecourse, then the beach the following week, you just saw a group that really wanted to work hard for each other,” he said.

That unity has defined the Bluebirds’ campaign. They achieved a club-record 51 points and finished with the best defensive record in the Cymru Premier — conceding just 26 goals in 32 games. It was a season not of flashy wins, but of collective discipline, focus, and belief.

And while Haverfordwest’s third-place finish guaranteed them a home final, it also meant an unusually long layoff — nearly four weeks without competitive football. For some, that might have spelled rust or lost momentum. For Pennock, it was opportunity.

“The break has given us a chance to get a few of the injured boys back fit,” he said on Friday. “No excuses from us — the boys are ready.”

Sunday’s performance proved that

Conference League

readiness, not just in energy but in character. It was a composed display from a squad that knew what was at stake and trusted in the process that had brought them this far.

Behind the scenes, there was also a challenge: keeping the squad focused and mentally prepared during the long wait. “Whatever happened in the previous 32 games doesn’t matter anymore,” Pennock said. “It’s all about Sunday.”

With the job now done and European qualification secured for the second year running, attention turns to logistics, the UEFA draw, and the question of whether Haverfordwest will again have to play at Cardiff City Stadium due to ground regulations.

But for now, the focus remains on a season that delivered on its promise — and on a manager who asked for belief and got it in return.

Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League Table

Carew crush Llangwm as title race begins to take shape

CAREW remain the team to beat in Division One of the Thomas Carroll Pembroke County Cricket League after another dominant performance, as the early-season table starts to take shape.

The 2022 champions were ruthless against Llangwm, piling on a massive 365-5 before skittling the visitors for just 102 — winning by 263 runs. Nick Davies struck a classy 101, supported by 88 from Shaun Whitfield and 62 from Tim Hicks. In reply, James Hinchcliffe tore through the Llangwm batting with figures of 4-8, while Iori Hicks chipped in with 2-15.

Cresselly remain on their heels, comfortably beating Lawrenny by eight wickets. After bowling Lawrenny out for 119 — with Tom Arthur taking 3-29 and Charlie Arthur 3-32 — Morgan Lewis (60) and Charlie Arthur

(41*) saw them home in just 21.5 overs.

Neyland kept pace near the top with a hard-fought four-wicket win over Burton. Ashley Sutton’s 76 and Dai Davies’s unbeaten 23 proved vital after Burton posted 147 all out, with Luke Hayman contributing 22 and taking 3-35 in a losing effort.

Saundersfoot also chalked up a win, chasing down 102 to beat Whitland by seven wickets. Prashant Gautam was the pick of the bowlers, taking 5-10, while Nick Cope took 4-21 and hit 26 not out to complete a fine all-round display.

Haverfordwest edged past Herbrandston by four wickets in a nervy low-scoring affair. Herbie were dismissed for 98, with Chris Phillips taking 3-11 and Fin Ateyo 3-13. Ben Field guided Town to victory with a

patient unbeaten 50.

DIVISION TWO: N ARBERTH AND P EMBROKE

UNBEATEN

Narberth stay top with a dominant 155-run win over Johnston. Jamie McCormack smashed a stunning 175, before Ryan Williams (4-49) helped bowl Johnston out for 169.

Pembroke are hot on their heels after chasing down Hook’s 230 with six wickets in hand. Jack Harries was the standout, finishing unbeaten on 125.

Carew II and Llechryd also enjoyed wins, while St Ishmaels crushed Burton II by 217 runs, with Brennan Devonald (136) and Peter Bradshaw (83) in the runs.

DIVISION THREE: F ISHGUARD FLYING

Fishguard top Division Three after an eight-wicket win at Stackpole. Nigel Delaney anchored the chase with 63 not out.

Jake Davie’s unbeaten 96 helped Pembroke Dock beat Hundleton by 72 runs, while Steve Williams (73) and Charlie Holder (54) powered Hook II past Laugharne.

Elsewhere, Lamphey edged out Kilgetty by 3 wickets, and Neyland II held off Haverfordwest II in a tight contest.

DIVISION FOUR: S AUNDERSFOOT II STAY PERFECT

Saundersfoot II made it four from four with an eight-wicket win over Narberth II. Lewis Treadway-Williams top-scored with 44 not out.

Pembroke II were equally dominant, thrashing Haverfordwest III by 131 runs with Paul White unbeaten on 118 Crymych and St Ishmaels II also recorded big wins, while Carew III saw off Lawrenny II by 70 runs.

DIVISION FIVE: P EMBROKE D OCK II OUT FRONT

In Division Five, Pembroke Dock II made light work of Haverfordwest IV, winning by nine wickets. Tom Grimwood hit an unbeaten 60. Herbrandston II defeated Hundleton II, while Llechryd II cruised to victory over Cresselly III. Whitland II and Neyland III did not play.

DIVISION SIX: L AMPHEY II CLIMBING

Lamphey II secured a sevenwicket win over Kilgetty II, while Whitland III eased past Llechryd III by ten wickets. Pembroke III won a lowscoring game against Haverfordwest/ Cresselly.

Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League Table

RESULTS: 17/05/2025

Cresselly (123-2) beat Lawrenny (119) by 8 wkts

Herbrandston (98) lost to Haverfordwest (100-6) by 4 wkts

Llangwm (102) lost to Carew (365-5) by 263 runs

Neyland (148-6) beat Burton (147) by 4 wkts

Saundersfoot (103-3) beat Whitland (102) by 7 wkts

Burton II (76) lost to St Ishmaels (293-4) by 217 runs

Carew II (226-2) beat Llanrhian (222-7) by 8 wkts

Hook (230-9) lost to Pembroke (233-4) by 6 wkts

Johnston (169) lost to Narberth (324-5) by 155 runs

Llechryd (90-0) beat Cresselly II (89) by 10 wkts

Haverfordwest II (166-6) lost to Neyland II (178-5) by 12 runs

Lamphey (181-7) beat Kilgetty (180-7) by 3 wkts

Laugharne (141) lost to Hook II (222-5) by 81 runs

Pembroke Dock (206-4) beat Hundleton (134) by 72 runs

Stackpole (190-5) lost to Fishguard (191-2) by 8 wkts

Lawrenny II (146) lost to Carew III (216-5) by 70 runs

Llanrhian II (139) lost to Crymych (215-6) by 76 runs

Narberth II (104-9) lost to Saundersfoot II (106-2) by 8 wkts

Pembroke II (260-2) beat Haverfordwest III (129) by 131 runs

St Ishmaels II (172-8) beat Llangwm II (130) by 42 runs

Cresselly III (88) lost to Llechryd II (89-3) by 7 wkts

Haverfordwest IV (119) lost to Pembroke D II (121-1) by 9 wkts

Hundleton II (95-8) lost to Herbrandston II (97-1) by 9 wkts

Whitland II (0) w/o v Neyland III (0)

Kilgetty II (72) lost to Lamphey II (74-3) by 7 wkts

Llechryd III (141) lost to Whitland III (144-0) by 10 wkts

Pembroke III (67-2) beat H’west-Cresselly (66) by 8 wkts

FIXTURES: 24/05/2025

Burton v Herbrandston

Carew v Haverfordwest

Lawrenny v Neyland

Llangwm v Saundersfoot

Whitland v Cresselly

Cresselly II v Carew II

Johnston v Burton II

Llanrhian v Hook

Narberth v Pembroke

St Ishmaels v Llechryd

Haverfordwest II v Laugharne

Hook II v Lamphey

Hundleton v Stackpole

Kilgetty v Pembroke Dock

Neyland II v Fishguard

Carew III v Narberth II

Crymych v Lawrenny II

Haverfordwest III v Llangwm II

Pembroke II v Llanrhian II

Saundersfoot II v St Ishmaels II

Herbrandston II v Cresselly III

Llechryd II v Haverfordwest IV

Pembroke Dock II v Neyland III

H’west-Cresselly v Kilgetty II

Lamphey II v Llechryd III

Pembroke III v Whitland III

Bluebirds gain place in Europa Conference League