The Pembrokeshire Herald 28/02/2025

Woman who died on Fishguard ferry named

A WOMAN who was found dead onboard a ferry travelling from Fishguard to Rosslare on Tuesday (Feb 25) has been named locally as 39-year-old Mary Cash.

Ms Cash, originally from Ireland but living in the UK, was reportedly travelling with family and friends to a funeral in Co Kildare when she was discovered unresponsive in a bathroom cabin on the Stena Nordica.

While her death was initially treated as unexplained, Gardaí now believe it to be a personal tragedy and do not suspect foul play. A post-mortem examination was carried out at Waterford University Hospital on Wednesday, but Gardaí have stated that the results will not be released “for operational reasons.”

BRAWL FOLLOWED DISCOVERY

Reports now indicate that a brawl erupted onboard following the discovery of Ms Cash’s body, leading to an emergency distress call from the ferry

captain. Witnesses have described the incident as “extremely shocking,” with some stating that tensions escalated among a group of passengers, sparking a heated altercation.

A transport company owner familiar with the incident said a driver present at the time had observed members of the group behaving erratically before the incident, suggesting alcohol or drugs may have been involved. The driver also noted that a hearse was on board, indicating that the group was en route to a funeral in Kildare.

MAN RELEASED WITHOUT CHARGE

A man who was arrested in connection with the investigation has now been released without charge. A Garda Family Liaison Officer continues to engage with and support the family of the deceased.

A Garda spokesperson confirmed: “A Garda Senior Investigating Officer will now supervise the completion of an investigation for the purpose of a file to assist a Coroner’s Inquest.”

Authorities have reiterated that there are no separate investigations into any public order incidents aboard the vessel.

LARGE EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Following the discovery of Ms Cash’s body, the ferry captain issued an emergency distress call approximately 30 minutes before docking. Armed Gardaí and officers from the Public Order Unit boarded the vessel upon arrival at Rosslare Harbour, sealing off the area as a crime scene.

The Stena Nordica was carrying a significant number of passengers at the time, including fans returning from Ireland’s Six Nations match against Wales.

Speaking to the PA news agency, Wexford councillor Ger Carthy said: “I

think the reaction here locally was one of shock and indeed sadness at what transpired on board the Stena Nordica en route to Rosslare Port here and the tragic events that unfolded. The response by Gardaí and state agencies was second to none, with a large presence of specialist units and national ambulance services.”

FERRY DISRUPTIONS

Stena Line confirmed that services were temporarily impacted, with sailings cancelled following the incident. However, Rosslare Europort has stated that all services resumed on Wednesday evening and are now operating as normal.

A spokesperson for Stena Line said: “An incident occurred on the 2:00pm sailing from Fishguard to Rosslare. This is a police matter.”

Gardaí are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward as inquiries continue.

Man to stand trial after abandoned Audi found in hedge

A MAN is to appear before magistrates for trial after his extensively damaged car was found abandoned in a hedge in Sardis.

Police were called to the white Audi A3 on September 14, following reports from a member of the public that the vehicle had left the road.

“The vehicle was in the hedge and no one was inside,” Crown Prosecutor

Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“All airbags had been deployed.”

Nia James said that attempts had been made to remove the vehicle’s registration plates, however, officers discovered one underneath the vehicle. Further checks identified the vehicle’s registered keeper as Stephen Conjoice.

When officers arrived at his property in Burton Road, Houghton, they discovered the 42-year-old defendant asleep in bed with a head injury.

After giving a breath test, he was conveyed to hospital where further breath tests were carried out, giving readings of 62 mcg of alcohol. The legal limit is 35.

Nia James said that DNA tests carried out on the vehicle’s airbags gave matches to the defendant’s blood and saliva.

Conjoice denies the charge of drink-driving.

The trial will take place on April 20, and he was released on unconditional bail.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Non-compliance at Withyhedge Landfill Site just days after resuming operations

WITHYHEDGE LANDFILL SITE

has already recorded two new non-compliances just days after resuming operations, following an eight-month closure due to severe odour issues described by residents as a “stink bomb on steroids.”

An inspection carried out by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) on January 30, shortly after the landfill reopened, identified two instances of non-compliance. Both related to inaccuracies in the description of waste being accepted at the site.

Documentation from NRW stated that the landfill operator, RML, initially used a waste description reading “MIXED WASTE – MISCELLANEOUS: MISCELLANEOUS WASTE”. However,

NRW officers observed that the waste being deposited did not match this description. Upon further investigation, NRW officers discovered that the actual waste being accepted was “non-hazardous general waste”. After discussions with NRW, RML provided a corrected documentation form.

A non-compliance score of C3, indicating a moderate breach, was issued against the site’s general management and operating techniques.

The fresh compliance issues follow significant controversy at Withyhedge throughout last year, when the landfill’s overpowering odour, described by residents as a “stink bomb on steroids,” severely affected the quality of life for

those living nearby.

Residents had previously held demonstrations and public meetings to highlight their plight, urging NRW and Pembrokeshire County Council to intervene and improve conditions at the landfill.

Waste acceptance had halted for nearly eight months, during which RML invested in major infrastructure upgrades, notably enhancements to the gas management system. NRW had required comprehensive improvements before permitting the site to reopen.

Despite these improvements, local concern remains high. An Incident Management Team, comprising representatives from NRW and Pembrokeshire County Council, met recently to address residents’ continuing worries.

NRW confirmed they would maintain a strong presence at the landfill, conducting regular inspections to ensure future compliance with environmental regulations. Air quality monitoring at Spittal School, measuring hydrogen sulphide levels, will continue until at least March 2025.

Residents experiencing odour issues are encouraged to immediately report incidents to NRW via their dedicated form or call 0300 056 3000. Alternatively, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Pollution Control Team can be reached on 01437 764551 or via complaints.withyhedgelandfill@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk.

Pembroke Dock child attack: Banned breed dog put down

A DOG that attacked a young child in Pembroke Dock, leaving them with serious injuries, was a banned breed, police have confirmed.

The attack happened at a property on Bush Street at around 6:50pm on Saturday (Feb 22). Dyfed-Powys Police were called to the scene following reports that a child had been bitten.

The child remains in hospital with serious injuries.

A dog was seized at the scene and has since been put down. Police have now confirmed the animal was described as a Pit Bull Terrier, a breed banned under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

A 42-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury. She has since been released on bail as investigations continue.

Tom Sinclair

editor@herald.email

A significant police presence remained at the property throughout the weekend, with forensic officers conducting examinations.

Police have urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances of the incident while their enquiries are ongoing.

Johnston railway station named as United Kingdom crime hotspot

UNSTAFFED PEMBROkESHIRE STOP HAS HIGHEST CRIME RATE PER PASSENGER

JOHNSTON train station in Pembrokeshire has been revealed as one of Britain’s most crime-ridden stations, according to new figures from British Transport Police (BTP).

Despite recording only ten crimes in 2024, Johnston’s crime rate per million passengers is the highest in the UK. The small, unstaffed station, which serves just 7,000 passengers a year— an average of 19 a day—logged a crime rate of 1,440 per million passengers.

Figures show that four of the ten recorded crimes at Johnston were violent incidents, which could include altercations, assaults, or even stabbings. The data analysis, conducted by MailOnline, placed Johnston at the top of the list due to its low footfall relative to the number of reported offences.

A spokesperson for BTP said: “Stations like Johnston appear to have a high crime rate because they have a low number of crimes recorded combined with a low footfall of passengers. With less than one crime recorded per month, it’s incorrect to suggest passengers are at greater risk of crime at these stations.”

Crime on the railways at all-time high

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The report comes as overall crime on the UK’s transport network has surged to record levels, with nearly 80,000 offences recorded by BTP in 2023/24. Violent crimes and sex offences have more than doubled over the past decade, while overall crime levels are up 55 per cent compared to ten years ago.

Johnston is not the only small station where crime rates appear disproportionately high. Redbridge station near Southampton recorded 38 crimes last year, translating to 1,180 crimes per million passengers. Similarly, Tiverton Parkway in Devon ranked fourth with a crime rate of 830 per million passengers, mainly due to theft and shoplifting incidents.

SERIOUS INCIDENTS AT MAJOR Uk STATIONS

While small stations dominate the crime rate rankings, larger stations continue to record the highest total number of crimes. London St Pancras International saw 1,616 crimes in 2024 but serves more than 38.5 million passengers annually.

High-profile violent incidents have

raised concerns about safety at UK train stations. In August, 19-year-old mother Stephanie Marie was stabbed to death by her boyfriend in front of commuters at Crawley Station. Last November, 87-year-old Dorothy Chiles died after being attacked at Birmingham New Street Station.

BTP said they are increasing proactive operations to tackle crime on the

railways, including stop-and-search initiatives and targeted crackdowns on county lines drug gangs. They urged passengers to report any concerns via their 61016 text service.

Despite the statistics, authorities stress that the chance of becoming a victim of crime on the railway remains low, with serious violent incidents remaining rare.

Man ‘covered in blue paint’ tasered and arrested

A MAN was tasered and arrested by police in Haven Drive, Milford

Driver arrested after crash near Sentry Cross roundabout

DYFED-POWYS

Police is investigating a two-vehicle collision that occurred on the A477 near the Sentry Cross roundabout just after 8:30am on Thursday (Feb 20).

The crash involved a dark blue Volkswagen Golf and a silver Renault van, with both drivers taken to hospital for treatment. They have since been

The driver of the Golf has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury through dangerous driving, driving without insurance, driving while disqualified, driving while unfit through drink or drugs, and possession of an

Police are appealing for witnesses and are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage of the incident.

Anyone with information can contact Dyfed-Powys Police via their website, by calling 101, or by messaging @ DyfedPowys on social media.

Man in court accused of stalking former partners

A PEMBROkE man has been accused of persistent and unwanted stalking of former partners, leading to a Stalking Protection Order being sought.

Mark Ion, residing at Colley Court, Monkton, Pembroke, is accused of carrying out repeated stalking behaviours since November 2023.

The application for the Stalking Protection Order, brought under the Stalking Protection Act 2019, was heard

at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on February 20.

The hearing was adjourned until June 12 at 12:00pm for a final hearing.

Ion, who is not currently in custody, has been issued an interim Stalking Protection Order prohibiting him from contacting or approaching Laura Livermore by any means.

The court ordered that Ion must submit his statement by April 1 and any legal submissions by May 1.

Motorist fined £600 for failing to identify driver

J ack Turner, 26, from Cefn Hengoed, has been fined £600 after failing to identify the driver of his vehicle to South Wales Police.

Turner, of Oxwich Close, did not attend the hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on February 20.

He was convicted of failing to provide driver identification details regarding an incident involving a Ford Fiesta on May 1, 2024.

In addition to the fine, Turner must pay £264 victim surcharge and £90 court costs. He has been disqualified from driving for six months, effective from November 12, 2024, due to repeated offences. Turner was also ordered to pay £5 per week starting March 20, 2025, towards his outstanding fines, which total £954.

Man banned from contacting woman after series of ‘serious’ assaults

suspended for 12 weeks, at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on February 5. He must pay £600 in compensation to the victim, who was granted a one-

Clears, was charged with three counts on three separate occasions—twice in Lloyd was sentenced to 12 weeks,

Man found not guilty over Goodwick pub bust-up

A MAN has been found not guilty at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Feb 21) after throwing a glass at another man in The Glendower Hotel, Goodwick, leaving him with a fractured eye socket.

Judge P. H. Thomas KC addressed the defendant, saying: “What the jury didn’t know is that you have a long history of violence. If you come before the court again, you should expect a sentence.”

Daniel Mitchell, 29, of Dunster Close, Rugby, but living in Goodwick at the time, had been on trial for inflicting grievous bodily harm and damaging property.

As the trial unfolded, the jury heard that the incident, which took place on April 18, 2023, stemmed from a longstanding financial dispute.

He pleaded not guilty to both charges, arguing that he had acted in self-defence.

Mitchell claimed he had lent the complainant £240, which had not been fully repaid. On the night in question, both men were drinking at The Glendower Hotel, where they became embroiled in a heated argument near the pool table.

CCTV footage showed the complainant walking over to Mitchell,

Madeline Knox editor@herald.email

at which point, Mitchell recalled: “I was feeling scared during the conversation. I felt like something was going to happen.”

The complainant allegedly responded: “I only owe you £50.”

Tensions escalated quickly. CCTV footage then captured the complainant pushing Mitchell backwards twice, nearly causing him to fall from his seat.

‘I wanted him to stop attacking me’

Mitchell told the court: “When he came for me again, I threw my whole glass at him from two metres away. I wanted him to get away and stop attacking me.”

The glass struck the complainant in the face, leaving him with a threecentimetre laceration above his eye, a two-centimetre laceration below, and a fractured eye socket.

Following the incident, Mitchell fled the pub and went to a friend’s house in Fishguard. Later that night, he walked 45 minutes back to Goodwick, where police found him hiding in a wardrobe upon his arrest.

Prosecuting counsel Georgia Donohue argued: “Throwing a glass in a man’s face was completely excessive,

and you were not acting in proportionate self-defence.”

However, Mitchell’s defence barrister Ashanti-Jade Walton countered: “The jury must assess this through the lens of the heat of the moment. Mr Mitchell’s main goal was to leave, and he acted instinctively.”

Walton emphasised that Mitchell had been pushed twice before reacting

and did not have time to weigh his response.

After deliberating for around 90 minutes, the jury returned not guilty verdicts for both grievous bodily harm and criminal damage.

Judge Thomas discharged Mitchell from the dock, but warned him that any future offences would not be met with such leniency.

Arrest following Johnston ‘disturbance’

ARMED police rushed to The Close in Johnston following reports of a disturbance just before 3pm on Tuesday (Feb 25).

The exact nature of the incident has not been disclosed, however a woman was arrested at the scene and later released without any further police action.

The police confirmed the arrest.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Officers were called just before 2.50pm on Tuesday, February 25, to reports of a disturbance in the Johnston area of Haverfordwest.

“A woman was arrested in connection with the incident.

“Following a number of enquiries she was released with no further police action at this time”

Essex man breached restraining order and damaged ex-partner’s car

An Essex man breached a restraining order against his expartner in Pembrokeshire, causing over £2,000 worth of damage to her car.

Steven Quaif, 27, of Chelmsford, had been due to stand trial for five offences, including assault and strangulation, but the prosecution offered no evidence, and not guilty verdicts were entered.

However, he admitted to criminal damage, cannabis possession, and

breaching the restraining order. The court heard Quaif and the victim had reconciled without cancelling the order. While on holiday in Jameston, he shouted at her in the car, ripped off a door handle, and punched the console screen.

Judge Paul Thomas KC sentenced Quaif to eight months for breaching his community order, restraining order, and criminal damage. Having served the equivalent of a 12-month sentence on remand, he was set for release.

Tenby’s Eileen Machin celebrates 101st birthday

TENBY’S remarkable Eileen Machin turns 101 tomorrow (Feb 28), marking another milestone in a life filled with adventure, service, and love.

A proud veteran of the Women’s Services during the Second World War, Eileen has lived through history and continues to embrace life with an energy that puts many to shame. She still lives independently in her own flat and regularly uses her free bus pass to travel to Pembroke, where she meets family for catch-ups.

Eileen, a mother of six, also fostered many children over the years, providing a loving home to those in need. Her warmth and generosity have extended through the generations, as proven by a remarkable family photo taken last year, featuring five generations—ages 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100—alongside grandchildren from Pembroke and even as far as New Zealand. Pictured with her are four great-grandsons (two from the UK and two from New Zealand) and one great-great-grandson.

A true adventurer at heart, Eileen made headlines last April when she renewed her passport—free of charge, as is the privilege for centenarians— and jetted off on a family holiday to Cyprus. She was the life of the party, dancing the nights away and making the most of the all-inclusive perks with a few well-earned gin and tonics.

Eileen’s incredible life and stories are an inspiration to all who know her. As she celebrates her 101st birthday,

Eileen Machin with her five-generation family, including four great-grandsons and one

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

surrounded by loved ones, one thing is certain—this extraordinary woman isn’t slowing down any time soon!

Man admits criminal damage and assaulting pensioner

A HAVERFORDWEST man has pleaded guilty to assault and criminal damage following an incident in Winch Crescent just before Christmas.

James Britton, 32, of Coronation Avenue, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 25), where he admitted to causing actual bodily harm to 74-year-old cancer survivor Kevin Bunston and damaging his belongings, including a mobile phone, glasses, and dentures, worth £915.98.

The court heard that the offences took place on December 23, 2023. Britton was charged with criminal damage under the Criminal Damage Act 1971 and assault occasioning actual bodily harm under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861.

Magistrates remanded Britton on conditional bail, with restrictions preventing him from contacting the victim directly or indirectly and barring

him from entering Winch Crescent. A pre-sentence report has been ordered ahead of sentencing, which will take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on March 18.

Britton is required to attend the next hearing, scheduled for 10:00am in Courtroom 1.

great-great-grandson.

Fly-grazing horses finally removed from Pembroke

THE LONG-RUNNING issue of fly-grazing on St Daniels Hill in Pembroke has finally seen action, as illegally left horses have now been removed from the land. The situation had been causing significant distress to residents and road users alike.

Paul Hay, a local funeral director and landowner, announced in a post on the Pembroke Dock & Pembroke Citizens Forum group on Facebook that the horses, which had been left on his land without permission, were finally removed after a prolonged struggle.

“After considerable worry and stress, with numerous phone calls and texts from concerned motorists and residents, I am delighted to inform you that the horses have been removed from our land on St Daniels Hill in Pembroke where they have been illegally fly grazing for a considerable time!” Hay said.

Hay explained that, although some believed the land was common land, it has actually been in his family for generations, having previously belonged to his grandfather. He described the ordeal as both a challenge and a nightmare for him and his family as they attempted to go through the proper channels with the police and the council. He also called for new legislation to be pushed through Parliament to enhance the safety of both road users and the animals themselves.

GROWING CONCERNS

The seriousness of the problem was highlighted this week by a post on The Pembrokeshire Herald Facebook page. Caroline Briggs said: “My dad hit and killed an Irish coloured cob in Kilgetty. There were two loose horses

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

on the A477 in the dark. He wrote his car off and was taken to Withybush and sustained head injuries. The police did not pursue the case. Something MUST be done about this problem.”

The ongoing issue of fly-grazing in Pembrokeshire continues to spark frustration and safety concerns among residents, with local authorities working to find a resolution.

County Councillor Jonathan Grimes (Pembroke St Mary South & Monkton) has been engaging with residents, Pembrokeshire County Council, and Dyfed-Powys Police to address the increasing problem of loose horses, particularly on St Daniels Hill. The presence of unmonitored horses poses a significant risk to road users and property owners.

One affected resident shared their experience, expressing frustration over repeated incidents involving loose horses damaging their property. “All I can say is when I looked out the window, I saw two horses running around my property and ran outside, where I saw the police. I told them that they were not mine and that it was the second time the horses had been at my property in less than 24 hours. It took the police and members of the public around 30 minutes to catch them. The road on St Daniels Hill was closed off. What happened to the horses afterwards, I couldn’t tell you, as I was trying to keep my children and dogs inside the house while the police dealt with it.”

THREATS AGAINST JOURNALIST AND COUNCILLOR

After posting an article about this issue over the weekend, The Herald received a very nasty phone call. Editor Tom Sinclair explained: “We received a threatening phone call from a male claiming to be the owner of the horses asking us to remove our story. The call included threats of violence and intimidation. The caller was also threatening violence against Cllr Grimes for trying to help the community with this problem. We do not remove newspaper articles on threat of violence. When asked if anything was inaccurate in the article the caller couldn’t think of anything,

just kept ranting. The owner needs to sort their horses out, not threaten journalists doing their job to highlight the dangers of these animals running wild.”

Authorities have assured residents that they are working on a solution to prevent further occurrences. However, questions remain as to whether enough is being done to tackle the persistent problem.

Residents affected by fly-grazing incidents are encouraged to report concerns to Pembrokeshire County Council and Dyfed-Powys Police as efforts to address the issue continue.

Councillor ‘should be able to work without fear’

THE LEADER of Pembrokeshire’s Conservative group has said it will support a fellow Tory county councillor who received threats after raising a local constituency concern.

The county has witnessed a significant increase in incidents of horses being left on public land and highways – known as fly-grazing.

Concerns have been raised many times around the Pembroke and surrounding area, with Pembroke Monkton county councillor Cllr Jonathan Grimes taking to social media over the weekend to highlight residents’ concerns..

Cllr Grimes, who said he had previously had a window smashed before Christmas, said the threats to him had been reported to police, adding: “I’m trying to represent my residents as best I can but it’s extremely frustrating; the police are frustrated, they need the council to do something before they can enforce it.”

Conservative group member Cllr

Grimes added: “I’m trying to do what I can to help the community and yet there’s threats and intimidation; we had the recent anniversary of David Amess [MP for Southend West murdered in 2021] he went to his surgery and didn’t come home that night.”

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received reports concerning threats made against two individuals on Sunday, February 23. Safeguarding advice has been provided to the two individuals and enquiries are ongoing.”

Speaking after the threats were made public, Conservative group leader Cllr Di Clements said: “We take all threats to any elected member very seriously. Their personal safety is of paramount importance.

“As a democratically elected

support Cllr

As well as Cllr

Danger to road users: Horses have been left on the side of local roads to graze

councillor, Jon should be able to carry out his duties on behalf of his constituents without fear. We will

Grimes to continue to do that.”

Grimes, The Pembrokeshire Herald editor, Tom

Sinclair, received a phone call threatening violence unless a post about the flygrazing problem was removed. The call came from a man claiming to be the owner of the horses. The Herald refused to take down the story.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Pembrokeshire Conservative Group leader Cllr Di Clements and Cllr Jonathan Grimes. Pictures: Pembrokeshire County Council. (Image: Pembrokeshire County Council)

Horses were spotted fly-grazing in Reynoldston, Pembrokeshire, in recent years

No jail for Puncheston man with over 1,000 indecent child images

The judge said this was because a short prison sentence, as required by sentencing guidelines, would not change the offender’s behaviour

A PUNCHESTON man has been sentenced after police discovered more than 1,000 indecent images and videos of children on his electronic devices.

Thomas Becton, 40, was arrested after officers executed a warrant at his home on the morning of February 2 last year. Prosecutor Caitlin Brazel told the court that police seized multiple devices, including a phone, laptop, handheld console, flash drives, and a computer tower.

A forensic analysis uncovered 11 Category A videos—the most serious classification—along with five Category B videos. In addition, officers found 1,011 images and 17 videos in Category C. Further examination revealed that Becton had made 52 online searches related to child sexual abuse.

When interviewed by police, Becton admitted that the illegal material belonged to him. He later pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children, corresponding to the different categories found on his devices.

“ABHORRENT OFFENCES”

Defence solicitor Emily Bennett acknowledged the severity of the crimes, stating: “Being in possession of such materials is abhorrent, for which there is no excuse. He recognises the harm inflicted upon children for this.”

Bennett told the court that Becton had been “open about his unhealthy attraction to children” with the probation service and had begun steps to address

his behaviour.

Since his arrest, Becton—who is a qualified IT professional—resigned from his job as a supermarket delivery driver.

JUDGE’S VERDICT

Sentencing him at Swansea Crown Court, HH Judge Catherine Richards said: “You accept that you have a sexual interest in children. Those images involved real children being harmed, and by your actions, you have supported the pain and suffering caused to them.”

She acknowledged that cases like this were a sad reality of how frequently such offences come before the courts. However, she explained that sentencing guidelines placed certain constraints on the punishment that could be imposed. While an immediate prison sentence might seem the obvious response given the severity of the case, she noted that the relatively short term allowed under the guidelines would not provide Becton with sufficient time to address his behaviour through rehabilitation. Becton received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. As part of his punishment, he must complete 150 hours of unpaid work, participate in the iHorizon programme, and attend 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

He was also ordered to register as a sex offender for a decade. A separate hearing was scheduled to determine the details of a sexual harm prevention order sought by the Crown Prosecution Service.

Man greeted police with illegal zombie knife

A COURT has heard how Haverfordwest police officers became fearful for their safety after being greeted by a man carrying an illegal zombie knife.

Officers had been called to a property in Winch Lane, Haverfordwest, just after 10:00pm on February 5 following reports that somebody was ‘smashing up’ one of the flats inside Glebe House.

“When officers arrived they heard banging coming from the property,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

After knocking on the front door, the officers were greeted by 25-yearold Jack Mills.

“His right hand was hidden behind the door so that whatever he was holding couldn’t be seen,” said Nia James.

“When he was asked what was in his hand, Jack Mills moved to the centre of the door and officers could see that he was carrying a large combat-style knife. The officers became scared for their safety so they red-dotted him and instructed him to put his hands in the air and drop the knife.”

After retrieving the knife, officers

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

could see that it had a serrated blade with the words ‘Kombat Tactical’ written on it.

“This meant it was a zombie knife, which is illegal to possess, even in your own home,” said Nia James.

After pleading guilty to being in possession of the illegal weapon in a private place, Mills’ solicitor, Mike Kelleher, said he was holding the knife out of concern for who may have been knocking on his door.

“A few days earlier someone had tried to break down his door, to the extent that the door frame was weakened and cracked,” he said.

“When the officers arrived, it wasn’t the defendant who was smashing up his flat, as the banging was coming from another flat upstairs.

“Someone then began banging on his front door and at the same time, an alarm started going off. The defendant was simply concerned about who might have been knocking on his door.”

Mr Kelleher told magistrates that

Mills had bought the zombie knife before they were made illegal by new government legislation introduced in September 2024.

“This knife started off as a legal implement but has since become illegal,” he said. “Are people aware of this?

“It wasn’t used for any threatening purpose but stayed behind his back the whole time.”

Mr Kelleher informed magistrates that Mills is employed by a local construction company.

Mills was sentenced to 18 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. He must also carry out 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 120 hours of unpaid work. He was ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs while a destruction order was imposed on the zombie knife.

Man accused of strangling woman and assaulting child to face trial

A 48-YEAR-OLD man has appeared before magistrates charged with assaulting a 14-yearold child and intentionally strangling a female.

The Crown Prosecution Service alleges that on August 27, 2023, Alan Hall carried out both offences at Solva.

“He assaulted a 14-year-old child and intentionally strangled a female by placing both hands around her throat and pressing hard, which made her feel dizzy,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates

this week.

Hall, of South Road, Sully, denied the intentional strangulation of the woman and causing the ill-treatment of a young person likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury.

Despite a request by Nia James, magistrates accepted jurisdiction in the matter, however, Hall elected a Crown Court trial. His trial proceedings will commence at Swansea Crown Court on March 11, and he was released on conditional bail, with the condition being not to contact the prosecution witnesses.

Son subjected mother to abuse and caused £700 worth of damage

A COURT has heard how a woman was subjected to a tirade of abuse from her son as he caused over £700 worth of criminal damage to items in her house.

Regan Boswell, 52, arrived at his mother’s home in Hamilton Court, Pembroke Dock, on the evening of June 26, 2023, where he had been residing for approximately six months.

“When he arrived, his demeanour kept changing,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“He didn’t want his dinner and he took his cup of tea upstairs.”

Shortly afterwards, his mother, Mrs Julie Boswell, heard a loud banging noise coming from one of the bedrooms.

“Regan Boswell started shouting and swearing, and when his mother asked him to be quiet, he became more aggressive and started throwing items down the stairs,” said the prosecutor.

Mrs Boswell subsequently rang 999, and Regan Boswell left the property.

“By now, neighbours had started arriving at the scene after they heard loud noises coming from the property,”

continued Nia James. “They also saw the damage that had been caused to her items.”

These included a television set, a remote control, a kitchen table, four plant pots, a vacuum cleaner, and mugs. A ceiling also had to be repainted after Boswell threw liquid against it.

Boswell, who is currently serving a custodial sentence for a previous offence, pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage. He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd.

“His behaviour was appalling,” he said.

“His mother has tried to help him out significantly over the years and has done everything in her power to assist him. He understands she needs time and space away from him so that he can sort himself out, but he’s hopeful that once again he’ll be able to have a relationship with his mother.”

Boswell was ordered to pay a total of £719 compensation to his mother, and a restraining order was imposed for 18 months, preventing him from having any form of contact with Julie Boswell. This includes contacting her via electronic devices.

Questions over Welsh Government’s £668m third-sector spending

WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’s use of third-sector bodies and grant funding has created an unaccountable network of supposedly “independent” bodies that rely on public funding for their survival. Welsh Government accounts indicate that, at a time when public spending is under extreme pressure, the Welsh Government shovelled out over £688m in grants to third-sector bodies.

The sums involved are huge. Putting the £668m allocated to the third sector in 2024 in further context is instructive. That sum is £126m more than the Welsh Government allocated to the whole Economy budget (capital plus revenue) and over £230m more than it allocated to the Rural Affairs budget in 2023-24.

THE DATA

One set of key data shows payments made by the Welsh Government with a value of over £25,000. We examined that data, which does not capture all Welsh Government grants to thirdsector bodies.

In one month, August 2024, and looking only at transactions over £25,000, the Welsh Government made cash grants to third-sector bodies totalling almost £5.5m. The same month, it made further capital grants of over £4.7m to Wales’s third sector.

However, that is not the end of the story. The Welsh Government also makes grant payments to private sector bodies and what it euphemistically calls “sponsored bodies”. Sponsored bodies are arm’s length bodies of the Welsh Government, such as the Arts Council Wales or Natural Resources Wales. Those bodies also award grants to third-sector bodies.

THE MONEY TRAIL

In effect, the Welsh Government gives grants to bodies to give grants to other bodies, who, heaven knows(!), might well give grants to other bodies. At every stage of that process, the grant scheme’s administrator will extract an administrative charge. That means that if every grant administrator in a simple chain extracted a 10% admin fee, the value of what reaches the end of the grant line has been reduced.

Suppose NRW gets a grant pot of £1,000,000. It distributes it in ten equal portions to ten different third-

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

sector bodies. It charges a 10% admin fee for the grant process. £900,000 hits the second stage. That is £90,000 each. Now, the second stage grant administrator must filter down that money to a final end user. It charges a 10% admin fee. It allocates the cash in equal instalments to another ten bodies. The amount it disburses is, therefore, £81,000. Of the original £1,000,000, almost £200,000 is lost in admin costs.

That is a crude example, but consider this: the Welsh Government, NRW, the Arts Council for Wales, and the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action all appear as separate funders on several charities’ or NGOs’ websites. That is a duplication of effort and bureaucratic waste writ large.

Now, consider that across 428 organisations and £668m in funding. The potential waste is staggering and raises questions about transparency and allocation priorities.

Going back to August 2024, the Welsh Government also made grants of £240,000 to the Wales TUC and of £400,000 to Cardiff Airport, both scheduled under “grants to the private sector”.

THE GRANT MACHINE

A key challenge in scrutinising these data lies in their density and recording method.

The Welsh Government cannot provide a breakdown of every line item it allocates to third-sector bodies within the scope of a Freedom of Information Act request as the

number of organisations involved and the number of individual grants is too large to capture. To address that issue, we focused on one organisation: The Welsh Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA).

The WCVA is the national membership organisation for the third sector and volunteering in Wales. It provides services and support to charities, community groups, voluntary organisations, social enterprises and volunteers.

In the ten months of 2024 for which the figures are available, and bearing in mind only expenditure over £25,000 is recorded, the WCVA received over £23.25m from the Welsh Government.

To get an idea of what the missing two months’ data might look like, we checked the previous year’s figures. That adds another £3.1m to the tenmonth total.

There is no suggestion that the WCVA engages in sharp practice or

is doing anything wrong. However, the money it receives as grants from the Welsh Government is public money, but the public has no say over where it goes or what it’s spent on. However, the Welsh Government does. Funding comes from defined pots for defined purposes that advance Welsh Government policy priorities. The bodies to which the WCVA makes grants, the amount they receive, and the purposes for which they are put are unidentifiable in the WCVA accounts. We can, however, say with certainty that there is little or no democratic accountability about where that money goes.

Even though the Welsh Government directs which funding pot gets the dough, ministers are not accountable for it. As we shall examine next week, the third sector operates alongside the public and private sectors and competes with both for scarce public money.

Man sentenced for threatening police officer in Milford Haven

A PEMBROkESHIRE man has been sentenced after screaming at a police officer, “I’ll f****** head butt you and f****** kill you.”

Police were called to the Mount Estate, Milford Haven, on August 17, 2024, to speak to Lee Boswell.

“Because of information the officers had received, they wanted to arrest him,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“But when the officer went to place the handcuffs on him, he began pushing his hands away, becoming agitated and resisting.”

Boswell then stood up and began flailing his arms, striking the officer on the shoulder.

“He was shouting, ‘I’ll f****** head

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

butt you and f****** kill you.’”

Boswell, of High Street, Pembroke Dock, pleaded guilty to a charge of obstructing or resisting a police constable in the execution of their duty. He was represented in court by Mr Michael Kelleher.

“He’s appalled at his behaviour and has no recollection of what happened nor of what he said,” said Mr Kelleher.

“But he’s seen the CCTV footage, and he realises that his behaviour was totally inappropriate. He’d like to apologise.”

Boswell was fined £166 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £66 surcharge.

Camrose man admits attempting to incite ‘teenage girl’ to commit sexual act

A CAMROSE man has admitted attempting to incite what he believed to be a 13-year-old girl into performing a sexual act.

Phillip Jackson, 42, of The Causeway, appeared before Swansea Crown Court, facing two charges linked to online offences.

The court heard that between September 22 and October 20 last year,

Jackson engaged in sexually explicit communication with a person he thought was a teenage girl. In reality, the account was operated by a decoy.

He also attempted to persuade the supposed child to perform a sexual act on herself.

Jackson pleaded guilty to both charges.

“The defendant made full admissions in his police interview and cooperated with

officers,” said Dan Griffiths, representing him.

Judge Paul Thomas KC adjourned sentencing until Friday, February 28, warning Jackson that a custodial sentence was inevitable.

Jackson was released on bail to sort out his affairs before his sentencing. He is now required to register as a sex offender.

Two men jailed after cannabis farm found

TWO MEN have been sentenced after a routine vehicle interception led police to uncover a large-scale cannabis operation inside a former primary school.

Alfred Perkola, 44, was sentenced to 45 months in prison, while Aldi Gjegjaj, 25, received a 36-month sentence after both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis at Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday (Feb 26).

VEHICLES INTERCEPTED ON M4

The case began on Thursday, July 4, 2024, when officers intercepted two vehicles suspected of involvement in cannabis supply. A Volvo and a hire van were stopped and searched shortly after leaving the M4. Inside, officers discovered nearly 100kg of cannabis, hidden in laundry bags, with an estimated street value of £1 million. Several mobile phones were also seized.

Both Perkola and Gjegjaj were arrested on suspicion of supplying cannabis. However, further investigation revealed a much larger operation.

GPS DATA LEADS OFFICERS TO ABANDONED SCHOOL

A tracking device on the hire van allowed police to analyse its movements. They noted that the vehicle had been stationary for an extended period in Marble Terrace, Llandysul, prompting officers to visit the location.

On arrival, police found an apparently deserted building—Hen

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Ysgol Gynradd, a former primary school. Suspicious features included boarded-up windows, large silver ventilation pipes protruding from the premises, and a strong smell of cannabis.

SOPHISTICATED CANNABIS FARM UNCOVERED

A search of the building uncovered a sophisticated cannabis cultivation

setup. Various rooms had been converted into grow spaces, while other areas showed signs of recent harvests. Officers seized 956 cannabis plants, along with living quarters that suggested the site had been occupied.

CCTV footage from the premises showed multiple people, including the arrested men, making repeated visits in the days leading up to their interception. Mobile phone records further linked them to both vehicles.

POLICE RESPONSE

Detective Constable Steve Thomas

welcomed the sentences, saying: “This is an excellent result, taking two more individuals out of the illegal drugs trade in the Dyfed-Powys area.

“The interception of these vehicles and the subsequent investigation have removed nearly £2 million worth of drugs from the supply chain, preventing them from reaching our streets.

“Drugs have no place in our communities. We are committed to making our force as hostile as possible to drug-related crime and will continue to crack down on supply operations.”

Dairy farm worker caught drink-driving after whisky binge

A DAIRY FARM worker has been sentenced for hitting a kerb before wavering across the A40 dual carriageway after a whisky drinking binge.

Police received calls just after 3:30pm on February 9 that a grey BMW 320 had been seen travelling on the Carmarthen to St Clears road.

“It was swerving to the nearside, collided with a kerb and then began wavering towards the centre line, almost crossing into lane two,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

When officers stopped the vehicle, they discovered it was being driven by Madalin-Gorge Pascu, 35, who is an employee at the Parc-yr-Abbott dairy farm in St Clears.

A roadside breath test proved positive, while further breath tests carried out at the police custody suite showed he had 69 mcg of alcohol in

his breath. The legal limit is 35.

Pascu, who resides in a caravan at Parc yr Abbott Farm, pleaded guilty to the drink-driving charge. He was represented in court by solicitor Aled Owen, who said the defendant had been drinking whisky the night before with some work colleagues.

“He works very long, intensive and difficult shifts of between 12 and 14 hours a day,” said Mr Owen.

“The night before, he and some colleagues had been drinking whisky at the farm. The following day he failed to recognise that he wasn’t fit to drive, so this was negligence on his part.

“In future, if he drinks to excess with his colleagues, then he’ll have to be more careful.”

Madaloin-Gorge Pascu was disqualified from driving for 17 months. He was fined £500 and ordered to pay a £200 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Gas engineer banned from driving after being caught over drink-drive limit

A SELF-EMPLOYED gas engineer has been ordered off the roads after being caught driving his van through Haverfordwest town centre while over the legal drink-drive limit.

Police officers discovered the van parked near the traffic lights at Bridgend Square roundabout, Haverfordwest, on February 9. Its hazard lights were on, and officers believed the vehicle had broken down.

When the officers approached the van, they discovered it was being driven by Dean Tunniclef, 28, who smelt of alcohol.

“He told them that he was having problems with the gear lever and said that he needed someone to put their foot on the clutch so that he could move it,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

Milford Haven man remanded in custody for multiple offences

A MILFORD HAVEN man has been remanded in custody after appearing before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court charged with multiple offences, including theft, affray, assault, and criminal damage.

Kyle Allerton, 26, of no fixed abode, appeared before magistrates on Tuesday (Feb 25) facing several charges, including theft in a dwelling, affray, assault by beating, and criminal damage to a police vehicle.

The court heard that on February 16, 2025, Allerton stole food items of an unknown value belonging to a local resident in Milford Haven. On the same date, he was also charged with affray after using or threatening unlawful violence, causing a person of reasonable firmness to fear for their

personal safety.

Additionally, Allerton was charged with assault by beating against an individual on February 16. He pleaded not guilty to the assault charge during a hearing on February 18. He was also convicted of criminal damage after admitting to damaging a police vehicle in Haverfordwest on October 12, 2024.

Magistrates cited the nature and seriousness of the offences, previous record, and breach of bail conditions in their decision to remand him in custody. They also highlighted concerns that he was likely to offend and could interfere with witnesses.

Allerton will remain in custody until his next hearing, scheduled for March 25, 2025, at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Community order amended due to health concerns

WALTER PROBERT, 27, of kingsmoor Common, Begelly, kilgetty, successfully had his community order amended by magistrates due to medical grounds. Probert, who was physically unable to engage in

the unpaid work originally required, had this requirement revoked. He will now complete alternative rehabilitation activities, continuing until February 23, 2026.

Suspecting that Tunniclef had been drinking, officers carried out a roadside breath test, which proved positive. Further readings showed he had 52 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

Tunniclef pleaded guilty to the drink-driving offence.

His solicitor, Mike Kelleher, said that at the time of the offence, the defendant was driving his business

van and the gear lever had ‘popped out’.

“The defendant is a self-employed gas engineer, so as from today, his business has no future,” he said.

Tunniclef, of New House Crescent, Watford, was disqualified from driving for 12 months. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.

Fire and Rescue Service help three dogs escape fire

THREE dogs were rescued by firefighters as they tackled a kitchen fire at a West Wales residential property.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to an incident in Dihewyd at 3.02pm on Monday, February 24.

Crews from Aberaeron and New Quay fire stations attended the incident, and found that a fire was confined to a hob within the address.

They used two breathing apparatus sets, one hose reel jet, one thermal imaging camera and one positive pressure ventilation fan to extinguish the fire.

As they were combatting the blaze, firefighters rescued three dogs from the property.

The crews left the scene at 4.41pm.

A fire service spokesperson said: “The fire is believed to have started by

the cooker being turned on accidentally, with items left on top of the cooker.

“Around 60 per cent of fires in the

home start in the kitchen, but it’s easy to enjoy cooking more safely with a little planning and awareness.

“Information on cooking safety is available on Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s website.”

Guilty of careless driving on A40 near Haverfordwest

A CARMARTHEN man has been found guilty of driving without due care and attention after a cyclist’s helmet camera captured him overtaking at an unsafe distance on the A40 near Haverfordwest.

Gethin Thomas, 20, of Brynglas, Trelech, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Feb 26) for a first hearing. The court heard that on August 16, 2024, Thomas was driving a Ford Ranger, registration PN68 FUD, along the A40 adjacent to Haverfordwest Airfield when he dangerously overtook a pedal cyclist. Prosecutor Llinos Davies told the court that the incident was recorded on the cyclist’s GoPro 10 camera, which showed the defendant passing at a close and unsafe distance, putting the cyclist at risk. The footage demonstrated that Thomas’s driving fell below the standard expected of a careful and competent driver.

Thomas did not enter a plea, and

the case was proved in his absence. Magistrates Ms S Thomas, Ms V Knapp, and Mr P David found him guilty of careless driving, contrary to section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. He was fined £220, ordered to pay £110 in costs, and an £88 victim surcharge. His driving record was endorsed with four penalty points. Thomas must pay the full amount by March 26, 2025.

Man sentenced for careless driving causing serious injury

A CARMARTHEN man has been handed a suspended prison sentence after admitting to causing serious injury by careless driving.

Conor Howlett, 24, of Penralltddu, Hermon, Cynwyl Elfed, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 25) for sentencing. The court heard that on December 24, 2023, Howlett drove a BMW 525D without due care and attention at the High Street junction with Carpond Lane in Ely, resulting in serious injuries to two individuals.

Howlett pleaded guilty to the offence at an earlier hearing on December 2, 2024. Magistrates imposed a 26week custodial sentence, suspended

for 18 months, citing the seriousness of the offence, excessive speed, and significant injuries caused.

In addition to the suspended sentence, Howlett was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work within 12 months and attend up to 20 days of rehabilitation activity as directed by a responsible officer. He was also disqualified from driving for 18 months and must pass an extended driving test before regaining his licence.

The court also ordered Howlett to pay £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service and a £154 victim surcharge. His guilty plea was taken into account during sentencing.

Missed appointments lead to fine

HAVERFORDWEST man John McMichael, 36, of College Court, has been fined after admitting he missed probation appointments scheduled for January 21, 2025, and unpaid work

set for January 6, 2025. Magistrates at Haverfordwest imposed a fine of £180 and ordered McMichael to pay £60 in costs. Payment must be completed by March 24, 2025.

Hundreds of nurses from India to help ease pressure on NHS in Wales

A FURTHER 200 nurses and doctors from kerala in India will be recruited to join the health service in Wales.

The announcement strengthens the agreement made between the Welsh Government and the Government of Kerala last year to support ethical recruitment from India to Wales, and on the basis of mutual benefit.

The NHS in Wales now has more staff than at any point in its history, directly employing almost 97,000 fulltime equivalent staff, and the Welsh Government is committed to continue investing in the current workforce and in training the NHS workforce of the future.

By welcoming healthcare professionals from Kerala, the NHS is benefiting from a wealth of knowledge which bring skills and experience that enrich the healthcare system.

More than 300 healthcare professionals have already taken up positions across NHS Wales from the Indian state since the agreement was signed in March 2024.

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Jeremy Miles met staff coming to Wales and thanked them for their support of NHS Wales.

Staff Nurse Teena Thomas from Karunagappally is set to join NHS Wales soon and said: “I’m drawn to NHS Wales’ commitment to providing highquality patient care and its reputation for excellence in healthcare.

“I’m excited to be part of a team that values compassion, kindness, and respect. The opportunity to work in a multicultural environment and contribute to the well-being of the Welsh community is truly fulfilling. I’m looking forward to developing my skills and expertise in a supportive and inclusive work environment.”

The Health Secretary also met with Minister for Health, Woman and Child

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Development, Veena George, to reaffirm and strengthen the working relationship between Wales and Kerala.

Health Secretary, Jeremy Miles said: “We are committed to delivering a sustainable NHS workforce which can handle present demands and meet the needs of the future.

“Wales has a long and proud tradition of welcoming healthcare professionals from all over the world and ethical international recruitment is a key part of our workforce strategy to ensure that the NHS in Wales has the right people and skills it needs.

“I am pleased a further 200 healthcare professionals from Kerala will be playing an important part in supporting NHS Wales, joining those who have already been recruited to our healthcare system.

“I thank them for everything they do and the Government of Kerala for the warm welcome and look forward to continuing to build our strong working relationship.”

Fine for breaching community order

SHAUN TUCKER 38, of Scotchwell View, Haverfordwest, has been fined £180 after admitting he failed to attend probation appointments on September

4, 2024, and January 21, 2025. Tucker was ordered to pay additional costs of £60, with payment due by March 24, 2025.

Speeding conviction overturned and reopened

A PEMBROKESHIRE man’s conviction for speeding has been overturned after he successfully applied to have his case reopened. Christopher Guard, 41, of no fixed abode, previously convicted for driving at 68mph on the

A48 near Carmarthen, had his case reopened by magistrates. The matter is adjourned until March 24, 2025, to examine mitigating factors and possible exceptional hardship to avoid disqualification.

Unpaid work requirement removed due to imprisonment

MAGISTRATES have removed the unpaid work requirement from a community order for Peter Billydean Hope Price, 27, currently held at HMP Parc, Bridgend. Price is serving a 21-month prison sentence imposed on November 7, 2024. The original community order was made by Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court in July 2023. Price will still be required to engage in rehabilitation activities until the order ends on July 19, 2025.

Brandished chainsaw outside shop

A NORTH Pembrokeshire man has been sentenced for brandishing a chainsaw outside a local store after grabbing a child and the child’s scooter.

Soon after 8:30pm on December 3, 2024, a 999 call was made by a member of the public stating that a male was acting erratically outside the Premier Store in Clynderwen. The male was later identified as Rhydian Morse, 39, who was standing in the middle of the road, holding an operating chainsaw.

Some 30 minutes earlier, a member of staff working inside the store saw Morse drive up in a BMW, playing loud music. He got out of the vehicle and was seen to enter and leave the store on numerous occasions. He was also seen kicking a small plastic bin which had been positioned beside the shop’s coffee station.

After leaving the store, Morse was seen approaching a 13-year-old child who was riding a scooter.

“The defendant grabbed the scooter and started to play with it,” said Nia James. “He then grabbed the child by his arms, swore at him, and pulled the child’s hood over his head.”

Morse then walked back to his car and removed a chainsaw from the boot.

“He started it up and was waving it around in the road,” said Nia James.

“A witness thought he was going to be approached by him, while some young children were seen waiting inside the store, concerned about leaving.”

Morse, of Precelly View, Grondre, Clynderwen, eventually put the chainsaw back into his car and drove off.

He pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour, causing criminal damage to the plastic bin, assault by beating, and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

After considering a full psychiatric assessment outlining the reasons for his behaviour, Morse was sentenced to 34 weeks in custody, suspended for 18 months, during which he must carry out 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

He was ordered to pay £75 compensation to the child, £85 costs, and a £187 court surcharge. A destruction order was imposed on the chainsaw.

Waspi campaigners threaten legal action over pension compensation

Government refuses to pay £10bn to women affected by pension age rise

CAMPAIGNERS fighting for compensation over changes to the state pension age have threatened the government with legal action after ministers ruled out a £10bn payout to those affected.

The Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) group has sent a “letter before action” to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), warning of high court proceedings if the matter is not resolved.

The dispute stems from changes that saw the state pension age for women born in the 1950s gradually raised to match men’s retirement age. The parliamentary and health service ombudsman ruled last March that these changes had not been properly communicated and recommended compensation. However, in December, the government announced that no payments would be made.

Labour leader Keir Starmer previously acknowledged concerns but defended the decision, stating: “Ninety per cent of those impacted did know about the change – and in those circumstances, the taxpayer simply can’t afford the burden of tens of billions of pounds of compensation.”

Angela Madden, chair of the Waspi campaign, accused the DWP of “gaslighting” those affected. She said: “The government has accepted that 1950s-born women are victims of maladministration, but it now says none of us suffered any injustice. We believe this is not only an outrage but legally wrong.

Chancellor

and Work and Pensions

financial hardship, forcing them to rethink their retirement plans.

CAMPAIGN GATHERS POLITICAL BACkING

The campaign has previously

“We have been successful before, and we are confident we will be again. But what would be better for everyone is if the secretary of state now saw sense and came to the table to sort out a compensation package.”

Liz Kendall, when the party was in opposition.

Around 3.6 million women in the UK were affected by the pension changes, first announced in 1995 and later accelerated in 2011 under the coalition government. Many have claimed they were left in

Labour MP Brian Leishman was among those calling for action, warning that if the party did not deliver “improved living standards,” the next UK government could be a “hardline far-right effort.”

G OVERNMENT STANDS FIRM

A government spokesperson said: “We accept the ombudsman’s finding of maladministration and have apologised for the 28-month delay in writing to 1950s-born women.

“However, evidence showed only one in four people remember reading and receiving letters they weren’t expecting, and by 2006, 90% of 1950s-born women knew the state pension age was changing. Earlier letters wouldn’t have affected this. For these and other reasons, the government cannot justify paying for a £10.5bn compensation scheme at the expense of the taxpayer.”

been backed by key Labour figures, including

Rachel Reeves

Secretary

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Plaid politicians criticise final settlement for Ceredigion

ELIN JONES MS and Ben Lake MP

call for further support

PLAID CYMRU politicians have slammed the latest budget settlement for Ceredigion, arguing that the Welsh Government’s funding formula unfairly penalises rural communities.

The county has received a funding increase of 3.6% for 2025/26, ranking 15th out of 22 local authorities in Wales. This represents the lowest increase per head of population in the country. By comparison, councils such as Newport and Cardiff received increases of 5.6% and 5.3% respectively.

The Welsh Government’s settlement has left Ceredigion County Council facing a budget shortfall of £7.4m to £7.5m, forcing it to consider cuts to services or significant council tax rises to balance the books. The council is currently modelling a potential 9.7% to 9.9% council tax increase to address the funding gap.

CEREDIGION COUNTY COUNCIL HQ

Elin Jones MS said: “This is a minuscule uplift for Ceredigion Council and will give the council very little flexibility to ease its budgetary pressures. By having a lower than average uplift from Welsh Government, the effect of this will be felt by important local services and the council taxpayers in Ceredigion. If the funding floor had matched the average increase of 4.3%, as had been hoped, then the pressure on services and taxpayers in Ceredigion would have been much eased.”

Ben Lake MP added: “It is disappointing once again that rural councils are being disproportionately underfunded by the Labour Welsh

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Government. There seems to be an inherent bias in the funding formula against rural areas and this needs to be investigated and rectified. Council taxpayers in rural areas are having to pay more than their fair share and this is increasingly unsustainable.”

Funding concerns and service pressures

The council’s budget report warns of continued financial difficulties, with cost pressures expected to reach £11.8m in the next financial year. These include a £4m burden due to National Insurance increases, £2.4m to cover pay rises for social care workers under the Real Living Wage policy, and an additional £2m for out-of-county children’s placements.

While a 10.5% increase in capital funding from the Welsh Government will provide an additional £612,000 for infrastructure projects, the council states that overall funding remains lower in real terms than it was 15 years ago.

Ceredigion has also suffered a significant cut in its allocation from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which has been slashed by 43% from £8.8m to £5m. The council warns this will impact local economic development projects.

CALLS FOR A FAIRER FUNDING MODEL

Both local Plaid Cymru politicians and Ceredigion County Council leaders are urging the Welsh Government to implement a funding floor of at least 4.3% in the final budget settlement.

The council argues that the current system disadvantages rural areas like Ceredigion, where service delivery costs are higher due to a sparse population and greater travel distances.

The council’s financial resilience report warns that without changes to the funding formula, future budgets will remain unsustainable, with increasing

pressure on council taxpayers to make up for shortfalls.

Elin Jones MS and Ben Lake MP have vowed to continue lobbying for a fairer deal for Ceredigion, highlighting the disproportionate burden placed on rural communities compared to urban areas.

St Davids named ‘best place to spend 48 hours’ in national spotlight

ST DAVIDS has been featured in the national press this week, highlighting its charm and appeal as a perfect weekend getaway.

The Daily Express article, titled “I visited UK’s smallest seaside city named ‘best place to spend 48 hours’,” delves into the unique attractions and experiences that make St Davids a standout destination.

St Davids holds the distinction of being the UK’s smallest city, offering a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of larger urban areas. Despite its modest size, the city boasts a rich history and a vibrant community, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing weekend.

At the heart of St Davids lies the magnificent St Davids Cathedral, a site of pilgrimage and worship for over eight centuries. Adjacent to the cathedral are the medieval ruins of the Bishops Palace, offering a glimpse into the area’s ecclesiastical past. These landmarks provide a deep dive into the history and culture that have shaped this unique city.

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Surrounded by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, St Davids is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The nearby Blue Lagoon, a former slate quarry, is now a popular spot for kayaking and coasteering. The picturesque harbors of Porthgain and Solva offer charming settings for leisurely exploration. For beach lovers, Whitesands Bay and Caerfai Beach provide stunning coastal views and opportunities for relaxation.

CULINARY DELIGHTS AND ACCOMMODATION

The city offers a range of dining options, from traditional Welsh dishes at local eateries to fresh seafood at renowned restaurants like The Shed in Porthgain. Accommodation choices are equally diverse, with establishments like Twr y Felin Hotel providing luxury stays adorned with local art, ensuring a

comfortable and enriching experience. For a comprehensive guide to spending 48 hours in St Davids, you can read the full article here: I visited UK’s smallest seaside city named ‘best place

to spend 48 hours’ This feature underscores the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes St Davids a

destination.

mustvisit

Milford Haven Hosts First-Ever Festival of the Sea Free weekend-long event 8-9th March

PEMBROkESHIRE’S Milford Haven is set to make waves next month as it hosts the inaugural Festival of the Sea on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th March. Organised by Y Môr a Ni, the twoday celebration will bring together local artists, marine experts, conservationists, and adventurers for an immersive experience highlighting the wonders of the sea.

On Saturday 8th March, Milford Waterfront will transform into a hub of creativity and ocean exploration from 10am to 5pm. Visitors can participate in marine-themed art workshops at the Waterfront Gallery with local artists Dawn Steward and Janet Taylor, also engage with exhibitors in the Link Building showcasing ocean literacy, renewable energy, marine biodiversity, seagrass, as well seaweed products with specialists Cậr y Môr. Outside on Mackerel Quay, organisations including the Royal Navy, RNLI, and Pembrokeshire Coast

National Park will offer interactive displays, real-life diving gear, and accessibility kit including specially adapted beach wheelchairs. Free parking is available, and no booking is required.

On Sunday 9th March, the Torch Theatre will host an array of talks covering nature, wildlife and the environmental conservation as well as interactive exhibits, and handson workshops focused on art and craft concluding with Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum’s ‘Living Coast’ event featuring local marine champions.

To make the most of the event, the Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront has a special offer with B&B stays across the weekend from £110 per room per night based on two sharing or family rooms £153 (four sharing including breakfast). For more information https://www.ty-hotels. com/destinations/milford-waterfront/

For more information: https://www. milfordwaterfront.co.uk/whats-on/ festival-of-the-sea

A celebration of the sea at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven

DIVE into a day and night of events and celebrations, highlighting the connection people have with the sea at the very first Festival of the Sea in the Uk including an art exhibition and forum at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. Organised by the Y Môr a Ni / The Sea and Us will showcase the marine environment around Pembrokeshire with an array of activities.

Festival of the Sea at Milford Haven will start on Saturday 8 March on Mackerel Quay, Milford Waterfront before heading to the Torch Theatre on Sunday 9 March at 11am culminating with the annual Pembrokeshire Living Coast Forum at 7pm.

The Torch Theatre will be a hive of activity throughout the day with an opportunity to meet a range of vendors from the Darwin Centre, National Trust, Sea Trust, Field Studies Council and the Cleddau Project on their stands in the communal areas of the theatre. Uncover the issue of marine plastics with the Sea Trust before getting crafty and creating your own marine plastic treasure in the main auditorium. Join the artist, Fran Evans, during her morning session of art and craft in the studio theatre before going on a

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journey into the marine world around Pembrokeshire and find out how Natural Resources Wales work – held in the main auditorium.

Get your hands dirty with Câr y Môr and help make some bio-fertiliser from seaweed and dive into the wonders of the deep with an award-winning marine photographer, diver and author in the company of Lou Luddington who will also showcase her exciting new ocean story telling platform. Mark Burton will discuss anything and everything from puffins to shearwaters and porpoises to seals as he recalls his time on Skomer Island before you attend the Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum 2025 in the main auditorium.

Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum is running its annual ‘Living Coast’ photo competition, in which photographers of all ages and skill levels are invited to capture the beauty and diversity of Pembrokeshire’s coast. The competition has four categories: ‘Children’s Wildlife’, ‘Children’s Coastal Life’, ‘Adult’s Wildlife’ and ‘Adult’s Coastal Life’. The entries of the winners and runners up, announced on Sunday 9 March, will be mounted and displayed at the Torch’s Theatre Joanna Field Gallery, alongside the work of Milford Youth Matters.

Take a walk on the wild side through the art exhibition at The Torch Theatre throughout March as part of Festival of the Sea – the first event of the recently launched Y Môr a Ni Ocean Literacy Strategy for Wales. Y Môr a Ni is designed by the Welsh Ocean Literacy Coalition and the wider Wales Coasts and Seas Partnership.

Discover the hidden underwater world that surrounds the Welsh coast through local art, stories and awardwinning photography; dance the day away to traditional Welsh sea shanties and be inspired to make a splash for our seas whilst meeting guest speakers and meandering around some local Pembrokeshire stalls.

Festival of the Sea held in Milford Haven on Saturday 8 March on Mackerel Quay, Milford Waterfront and at the Torch Theatre on Sunday 9 March at 11am with the annual Pembrokeshire Living Coast Forum at 7pm.

For further information, visit the Torch Theatre website www. torchtheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Hydrogen fuel plant development planned for Pembroke Dock

A 15MW green hydrogen fuel production facility scheme at a Pembrokeshire dockyard has been submitted to county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire county Council, green energy specialists Haush Ltd is seeking permission for the facility, including electrolysers, compressors, a substation, and associated infrastructure, at Gate 4, Pembroke Dockyard, The Dockyard, Pembroke Dock.

Green hydrogen is produced from water, in an electrolysing process using electricity obtained from renewable sources, in this case through an 11kV substation supplied by renewable electricity via the national grid.

A supporting statement through agent Locogen Consulting Ltd, a specialist Renewable Energy Consultancy based in Edinburgh, says: “Haush’s vision is to address one of the biggest challenges of our time –decarbonising the transportation and construction industries. Their innovative solution lies in working in partnership with communities to produce Green Hydrogen, a clean and renewable energy vector that can significantly reduce carbon emissions.”

It adds: “The applicant has sought to identify opportunities to produce and supply Green Hydrogen across the UK to areas where it is most needed.

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The site was considered suitable for the proposed development, as it would align with the ambition for Pembroke Dock Marine to transition to a worldclass centre for marine energy and engineering, focussed on the low carbon energy sector.

“The applicant’s ambition to deliver

the proposed development, which would produce clean energy from Hydrogen, aligns with the aspiration and vision for Pembroke Dock Marine.”

It says there would be up to six HGV movements to and from the site per day when operational, with “each taking approximately five hours to fill to capacity, resulting in a low turnaround of vehicles to and from the site”.

On safety issues, it says: “The site would utilise rigorous safety measures,

alongside the applicant adopting a production strategy that further reduces the risk profile.

“Most notably, there will be no fixed onsite storage of Hydrogen. Instead, Hydrogen will be produced and compressed on-demand and will be transported immediately offsite using operated tube-trailers owned by the applicant.”

The application will be considered at a later date.

Paul Sartori and Shalom House celebrate successful ‘Light up a Life’ concert

THE PAUL SARTORI FOUNDATION and Shalom House are delighted to announce the success of their recent ‘Light up a Life’ concert, held on January 25th, 2025, at the historic St Davids Cathedral. This annual event, part of the national hospice initiative, brought the community together for a beautiful evening of reflection and remembrance, honouring loved ones who are no longer with us. The event also raised a staggering £3,795 to share between these two important Pembrokeshire charities.

The concert featured captivating performances by the amazing female group, Bella Voce, the fantastic Paul Sartori Community Choir, the talented Cwm Cerwyn Ensemble, and clarinet soloist Julie Conybeare, accompanied by Margaret Blackledge. Attendees were treated to a diverse musical repertoire by candlelight, creating a serene, contemplative, and unforgettable atmosphere within the cathedral’s hallowed walls.

The event was made possible through the generous support of local businesses, including Richard Brothers, A Way with Flowers, St Davids Bookshop, The Retreats Group, Topp Tyres, Chilton Cars, Nex Media, and Syncro Motor Factors. Their contributions ensured the concert’s success and underscored the community’s commitment to

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supporting vital hospice care services in Pembrokeshire. Thanks, too, to the fantastic team at St Davids Cathedral.

Rosalind Raymond, Trustee at The

Paul Sartori Foundation and Sam Wilson-Croft, Business Manager at Shalom House, echoed their gratitude for the support of the community and local businesses on the night.

Both the Paul Sartori Foundation and Shalom House Palliative Care Centre are dedicated to providing

compassionate end-of-life care to individuals and families across the county. The funds raised from the ‘Light up a Life’ concert will directly support these essential services, enabling both organisations to continue their mission of delivering hospice care to those in need.

Freddie the ginger cat seeks a loving home

SOUTH PEMBROkESHIRE CAT RESCUE is looking for a new home for Freddie, a confident and affectionate seven-month-old ginger male.

Freddie has been neutered, fleatreated, wormed, microchipped, and vet-checked. He has also received his first vaccination.

Having only lived as a house cat, Freddie is young enough to transition to a home with outdoor access or remain an indoor pet. However, all adopted cats must be kept indoors for at least three weeks to allow them to settle and bond with their new family.

Freddie is both cat and dogfriendly, making him an ideal family pet. Playful and affectionate, he has a charming personality and is very

people-orientated, making him a wonderful companion.

ADOPTION DETAILS

Anyone interested in adopting Freddie can message South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue on Facebook or comment on their post. If a home check is successful, adoptions usually proceed the same day.

All rescue cats are vet-checked on their adoption day for peace of mind. The adoption donation is £60, which goes directly towards helping the next cat in need.

Successful adopters must bring a secure cat carrier for transport. South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue does not rehome on Sundays or bank holidays.

Significant funding boost restores Welsh publishing to pre-cut levels

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has confirmed a major funding boost for Wales’ publishing sector, restoring its financial support to pre-cut levels and reinforcing its commitment to the creative industries.

An additional £272,000 will be allocated to the sector through the Books Council of Wales (BCW), as part of the government’s Final Budget for 2025-2026. This is in addition to an earlier uplift of £120,000 announced in the draft budget, bringing the total increase in funding for the next financial year to £392,000.

This move effectively restores the sector’s overall funding to 2023-2024 levels, reversing reductions made in the previous budget cycle. The BCW, which operates as an arms-length body, will oversee the distribution of these funds to publishers across Wales.

INVESTMENT IN INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE AND DIVERSITY

The Welsh Government has also reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to promoting Welsh publishing on the global stage. Additional funding is regularly provided to the BCW to support Welsh publishers at major international events, including the Frankfurt Book Fair and the London Book Fair. Last year, 18 Welsh publishers attended Frankfurt, where they showcased their work to a global audience.

Beyond international outreach, the government is investing in broadening audience engagement through the BCW’s New Audiences Fund, managed by Creative Wales. Over the past three years, £1.5 million has been channelled into more than 100 projects, leading to the creation of 117 new jobs and commissioning of over 540 pieces of work. The initiative aims to increase diversity across the publishing sector.

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Beneficiaries of this funding have included a range of innovative projects and organisations. Broken Sleep Books received support for a literary festival, while the anthology Writing Back Home—a collection of letters from Syrian writers to their homeland—was made possible through this scheme. News platform Nation Cymru has used the funding to nurture creative talent, while the history magazine Hanes Byw has supported authors in their research fields.

GOVERNMENT STANCE ON PUBLISHING SUPPORT

Jack Sargeant, Minister for Culture, welcomed the funding confirmation, describing it as a clear signal of the

Welsh Government’s commitment to publishing as a core part of the nation’s creative economy.

“This significant funding confirmation shows how serious we are about supporting Welsh publishing as a priority creative sector,” he said. “Despite the creative sector’s continued brilliance, I am all too aware of the challenges also being faced. I welcome the strong and constructive relationship the Welsh Government has with the Books Council as we look to write a positive next chapter for publishing in Wales. Our Final Budget will no doubt bring good news for the wider sector too and is a positive step forwards from which we can build together.”

WIDER INVESTMENT IN ARTS AND CULTURE

The publishing sector is part of a broader Welsh Government strategy to

enhance funding for arts and culture. The total additional investment in arts, culture, heritage, and sport revenue for the 2025-2026 budget now stands at £9.6 million, bringing the total allocation to £122.5 million.

Additionally, capital investment in this sector has seen a dramatic rise. The 2025-2026 budget allocates £73.8 million in capital funding—an increase of £18.4 million compared to 2024-2025. Since 2014-2015, capital investment in the sector has surged by 274.2% in real terms.

This funding increase represents a renewed push to support Welsh publishing, bolster the creative economy, and ensure the sector remains resilient in the face of economic pressures. With restored funding levels and a clear strategy for international and domestic growth, Wales’ publishing industry is set to enter its next chapter with renewed strength.

Dyfed-Powys Police to sell off Narberth police station

DYFED POWYS POLICE have confirmed that they are to sell Narberth Police Station and relocate to a new base with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS).

Narberth Station has been identified as not meeting modern day policing requirements by DyfedPowys Police.

As a result, and as part of a £10m savings plan spanning three years, a decision has been made to formally close the station and sell the property.

This decision is part of a bigger change programme across Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police, where estates and technology and the kit available to officers and staff are coming together to improve policing and the service to our communities.

Dyfed-Powys Police will maintain their presence in Narberth, and will operate from a new collocation base, with Mid and West Wales Fire who are an important Blue Light partner with established long-standing relationships already in existence. Collaborating with MAWWFRS will mean that Dyfed-Powys Police can continue to ensure a visible presence and effective engagement with localresidents and businesses in the town.

Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis said: “This decision has come after careful evaluation to make best use of resources and deliver an effective police service that meets the needs and expectations of our communities.

“The closure and sale of this police station is a step forward in modernising and improving our services, enabling officers to continue their work with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

“The decision has been made

with the best interests of taxpayers and the community in mind, as the current station does not meet modern day policing requirements and is expensive to run.

“I want to reassure our local communities that Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police is committed to maintaining the same level of service and support for our local communities, and residents and business in Narberth will see no difference.

“Your local neighbourhood policing and prevention teams will continue to provide a visible presence and effective engagement with residents and businesses.”

Police and Crime Commissioner

said: “Discussions around police stations closing or being sold have, in the past, sparked concerns about police visibility, response times, and community safety. I completely understand those worries.

“However, Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis has assured me that this estates decision will not affect the level of service provided to the public.

“While these changes are not easy, I want to be clear—our commitment to public safety remains unchanged. This decision is about making sure Dyfed-Powys Police can operate as efficiently as possible, ensuring officers and resources are in the right places to serve our communities effectively.

“In an increasingly digital world,

there are now more ways than ever for people to stay connected with DyfedPowys Police. Alongside traditional phone contact, I encourage the public to make use of online services and the Force’s social media channels, which offer important updates, crime prevention advice, and opportunities for engagement.

“By embracing these alternative ways to communicate, we can all play a role in ensuring policing remains responsive and accessible, while allowing officers to focus on critical incidents.

“If you have any concerns or questions, please get in touch with my office. Your feedback is important, and we value your support in keeping our communities safe.”

MAWWFRS’s Chief Fire Officer, Roger Thomas KFSM, said: “MAWWFRS is delighted to further its partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police continuing the long-standing and positive relationship we have with one of our blue light partners.

Our Service is committed to keeping the communities of Mid and West Wales safe and by increasing the number of community Fire Stations available to Dyfed-Powys Police’s Officers further enhances our ability to work closer together”.

If you need the police when it is not an emergency, you can contact them through a direct message on Facebook and X, online, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the nonemergency number on 07811 311 908. If a crime is in progress, or there is a danger to life, risk of serious injury, or damage to property, always dial 999.

Reverend Nicola Davies licensed as Assistant Curate in Bro Amman

A WARM welcome was extended to Reverend Nicola Davies, from Milford Haven, as she was officially licensed as Assistant Curate in the Local Ministry Area (LMA) of Bro Amman in a special ceremony held on Thursday night (Feb 20).

The event saw members of the community, clergy, and well-wishers gathering to mark this significant milestone in Reverend Davies’ ministry. Many attended in person to offer their support, while others sent heartfelt messages of congratulations. Some even took the time to visit her personally, bringing gifts of plants and cake as a symbol of their warm welcome.

Expressing her gratitude, Reverend Davies shared her appreciation for the kindness and support shown by the community. “It’s a joy to receive such a

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welcome,” she said.

Special mention was given to those who traveled from Pembrokeshire, particularly from the Roose LMA, where Reverend Davies had previously served. She expressed her deep gratitude to her former parishioners, acknowledging that while she will miss them, she looks forward to the new beginnings ahead in Bro Amman.

The Plwyf Llandybie Parish, which was also part of the celebrations, echoed the sentiments of excitement and gratitude, highlighting the significance of Reverend Davies’ arrival in the community. Her appointment as Assistant Curate marks a new chapter in her journey of faith and service, and the warm reception she received

is a testament to the impact she has already made.

As she embarks on this new role, the community of Bro Amman looks forward to her ministry and the

contributions she will bring to the LMA. The evening was not only a celebration of Reverend Davies’ appointment but also a reflection of the strong spirit of faith and fellowship within the parish.

Dafydd Llywelyn

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Portfield Fair could return to St Thomas Green

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HAVERFORDWEST TOWN

COUNCIL wants to bring a popular fair back to St Thomas Green this year.

At its meeting on Thursday, February 20, councillors discussed potential locations for the Portfield Fair, due to take place in October.

Despite last year’s successful event at Rifleman Field Car Park, councillors agreed that St Thomas Green would be the preferred venue.

Cllr Randell Thomas Turner said: “The feedback on bringing the Portfield Fair back to St Thomas Green has been positive. We should push to have it back there.”

However, some councillors also acknowledged the benefits of holding the event at Rifleman Field Car Park, where last year’s fair was well attended. Discussions will continue in the coming months before a final decision is made.

‘Instagrammable’ footbridge faces further frustration and delay

PEMBROkESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL has confirmed that the construction of Haverfordwest’s controversial ‘Instagrammable’ footbridge has been delayed once again, with its completion now pushed back to at least September 2025. The project, originally designed to improve pedestrian access and enhance the town’s visual appeal, has been met with growing scrutiny over rising costs and the justification for its design.

DELAYS AND COST INCREASES

The footbridge is a key part of the Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange (HPTI) scheme, a wider regeneration project aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility in the town. The project was originally budgeted at £5.7 million, but concerns have been raised over whether additional delays could push costs even higher.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council outlined the reasons for the latest setbacks, stating:

“There has been a delay in fabrication modelling due to the time required to clarify and resolve technical queries related to the complex design and methodology for fabrication and installation. Additionally, there has been a delay in crane availability, which has further impacted the timeline.”

CRITICISM OVER THE PROJECT’S

PRIORITIES

The bridge has been a point of

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controversy since its announcement, particularly regarding its design focus.

Councillor Rhys Jordan, who was among the first to publicly criticize the project before leaving office in October 2023, raised concerns about the emphasis on making the bridge visually appealing for social media rather than prioritizing functionality.

Cllr Jordan said:

“The focus on an ‘Instagrammable’ design raises serious questions about whether this is the best use of public funds. While aesthetics are important, the people of Haverfordwest need practical infrastructure that meets their daily needs.”

His comments ignited wider debate about the project’s priorities, with some residents and local business owners questioning whether resources could have been better allocated to other infrastructure improvements.

POLITICAL AND PUBLIC REACTIONS

The Welsh Conservative group, led by Councillor Di Clements, has also expressed concerns over the project’s financial management and delays. While acknowledging the need for regeneration in Haverfordwest, the group has called for greater transparency regarding the rising costs and timeline extensions.

“Residents deserve clear answers

on why this project continues to face setbacks and whether further delays will result in additional costs. We need assurances that this investment will truly benefit the town and not become an expensive vanity project,” a spokesperson for the group stated.

IMPACT ON LOCAL BUSINESSES

Local business owners have voiced frustration over the ongoing delays, with some reporting a decline in foot traffic due to construction disruptions. The bridge, once completed, is expected to improve access to key areas of the town, but the prolonged construction phase has left many questioning when they will see the benefits.

Commuters have also expressed concerns about accessibility, with some calling for alternative pedestrian routes to be improved while construction continues.

WHAT HAPPENS NExT?

Despite the delays, Pembrokeshire County Council maintains that the bridge will ultimately be a valuable addition to the town’s infrastructure. However, with completion now expected in late 2025 and lingering concerns over costs, the project remains under intense public and political scrutiny.

Residents and stakeholders are now waiting to see whether the council can meet its revised timeline—or if further setbacks will once again push the bridge’s completion even further into the future.

Fishguard carpenter building site could become police base

A SCHEME to convert a former carpenter’s workshop in a Pembrokeshire town to a unit for patrolling police officers has been submitted to county planners.

The Dyfed Powys Police application to Pembrokeshire County Council seeks permission for the change of use at Unit 3, Feidr Castell, Fishguard.

A supporting statement by agents Asbri Planning Ltd said the unit would be used by local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

It adds: “The unit was formerly used by a carpenter, however, due to the unit now being vacant Dyfed Powys Police, as part of their ongoing efforts to create comfortable working spaces for PCSOs, have declared a strong interest in purchasing the property to create a base/hub for patrolling officers.”

It concludes: “The change of use of the building would allow Dyfed Powys Police to provide a base for their PCSOs in the area. The external alterations are limited to a new door along the western elevation and the only other changes that would be required are internal alterations which fall under permitted development rights.

“The approval of the application would allow a vacant unit to be utilised and would assist Dyfed Powys Police in providing a safe environment for their staff.”

Dyfed-Powys Police recently

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submitted an application for a change of use of the former Public Information

Centre, Argyle Street, Pembroke Dock to a police station.

In that application, it said its current station in the town’s Water Street is “no longer fit for purpose,” with the force declaring a strong interest in

purchasing the Argyle Street property “to enable a more efficient building to house their new model hub for policing”.

Both applications will be considered by planners at a later date

New creative space aims to help revitalise Haverfordwest town centre

A FRESH initiative is bringing a creative spark to Haverfordwest’s high street, with the opening of a new shared studio space designed to support local artists and breathe life into empty shops.

Breakout Gallery, led by Arthur Brooker, officially opened its doors to the public on Friday, February 14, offering both a workspace and a platform for artists to showcase their work.

Arthur, who has been running Breakout Gallery for nearly a decade, has shifted the focus of the business in response to changing times.

“We initially specialised in selling artwork on commission,” Arthur explained. “But after COVID and the cost-of-living crisis, we needed to rethink our approach. Now, our main goal is to help regenerate Haverfordwest by transforming vacant retail spaces into hubs of creativity.”

The gallery has been redesigned to include individual studio units, allowing artists to rent space to create and exhibit their work.

Beyond the studio, Breakout Gallery is well known for its street exhibitions, which add a vibrant touch to local festivals and events. The team also rents out event decorations and manages a space at Westival.

Arthur is now setting his sights on further expansion. “There’s so much potential in Haverfordwest,” he said.

“We’re already exploring another premises to offer even more creative space. It’s all about revitalising the

town, one shop at a time.”

In addition to providing studio space, the gallery hosts exhibitions and events, with the next major showcase, Heartbreak Hotel by Harriet Davis, set to open on Friday, February 28. Life drawing and oil painting classes are

also being introduced to further engage the local artistic community.

A former director at Haverhub, Arthur is passionate about bringing more artists into the fold and ensuring that Haverfordwest becomes a thriving creative hub.

Massive wind turbines could be built close to holiday parks

THE FIRST stage of a potential scheme for three 328-foot high wind turbines close to Pembrokeshire’s Bluestone holiday park and the Oakwood theme park has been lodged with county planners.

Agents Sirius Planning Ltd, on behalf of an as-yet unnamed applicant, have requested a Screening Opinion for a proposed scheme at Newhouse Farm and Blackpool Farm, Canaston Bridge/ Cross Hands, close to Bluestone and Oakwood.

A screening opinion is a request to a planning authority to determine if an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required for a proposed scheme, to identify applications that could have significant effects on the environment.

Supporting documents say the three 100-metre-high turbines, each producing 1MW of power, would – in total – generate enough electricity to provide power for 1,900 homes, adding: “It is anticipated that the proposed development could provide power to local businesses such as New House

three to five months with the majority of vehicle movements occurring during the construction phase, the agents say.

used with a hub height of 69m and a tip height of 100m, the agent says.

It says: “There are no designated or non-designated features within the application site which are protected for their landscape and scenic value. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park lies to the north and west beyond the Bluestone Resort and Oakwood Theme Park.

Farm, Bluestone Holiday Park Resort and/or Oakwood Theme Park.”

Construction, if a later formal scheme is approved, is expected to take between

The specific wind turbines selection is dependent on the final commercial choice by the developer, however it is anticipated that EWT turbines will be

“The landscape character already incorporates existing wind turbines and other large vertical structures, such as Oaklands [sic] Theme Park rollercoasters which are existing detractors within the landscape.” It finishes: “It is therefore considered that the characteristics of the proposed development are not likely to have the potential for ‘significant’ environmental effects and thus would not constitute EIA Development. It has been demonstrated that an EIA is not required in connection with the above application.”

A response to the request will be considered by county planners at a later date ahead of any formal Aapplication.

The Speculation Inn pub seeks permission to undergo facelift

A RETROSPECTIVE scheme for works at a historic Pembrokeshire pub has been submitted to county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Chris Grey seeks permission for retrospective works for additional shower/toilet facilities for the Speculation Inn Public House and authorised Caravan & Camping Club, near Hundleton, and a replacement store.

A supporting statement through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd says: “The premises has changed hands in recent years and the pub has been sensitively refurbished and the rear paddock operates under a Camping and Caravanning Club exemption and has proven very popular.

“The applicants seek two expansions, which are mainly in retrospect and relate to the following: Bespoke separate toilet / showers for the authorised campsite / tourer site. A small facility is available in the pub, however, this is not ideal for campers who need showers.

“Replacement of a corrugated building attached to the pub, which had collapsed, with a replacement store for the Speculation Inn and its various function.

“The toilets are positioned to the rear of the Speculation Inn and its beer garden and use an existing treatment plant and soakaways for roof water.”

It adds: “It is the applicant’s intention to retain the current toilet/

shower facilities offered to visitors who wish to park their caravans at the Speculation Inn Meadow certified site, or who have come with the intention of camping, and by expanding their offering with a further

toilet / shower block, all being more appropriate for modern camping and caravanning client expectations and being Covid friendly.

“A new British Standard compliant package treatment plant with associated drainage fields is now installed ensuring that the clarified water will not cause diffuse water

pollution (DWP) in the downstream water network.”

It concludes: “It already brings a benefit in regard to providing quality tourism operations with required enhanced facilities.”

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

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Multi-agency marina search following reports of missing man

A major multi-agency search has been carried out at Milford Marina following a 999 call claiming that a person had been spotted in the water close to the town’s bowling alley.

The call was made to Angle Lifeboat station at precisely 8.58pm on Friday. But just one minute later, the message was cancelled.

“A person reported that somebody was in the water near to the bowling alley, but just one minute later, our crew received a cancel message, stating that the person was now out of the water,” commented a spokesperson for Angle Lifeboat station.

But four minutes later, the crew received another call, claiming the person was once again back in the water.

“As a result, the lifeboat was launched but with the marina lock gates

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closed, the lifeboat had to tie alongside the pontoon within the lock, with the pier head staff locking the lifeboat in as quickly as possible,” explained the Angle spokesperson.

“ Fortunately, because the water levels weren’t too dissimilar as a result of the rising tide, the lifeboat was soon within the docks and able to make its way to the area in question.”

A search was carried out of the area where the person, believed to be a male, had been seen entering the water but it was soon confirmed that he had recovered. He was later seen on the quay wall with police officers together with members of the fire service and the coastguard rescue team.

1,200 holiday homes in West Wales at risk of dangerous mould

STUDY HIGHLIGHTS HEALTH DANGERS IN EMPTY WINTER LETS

THOUSANDS of Uk holiday homes could be “breeding grounds” for dangerous mould, with more than 1,200 properties in West Wales and almost 500 in Pembrokeshire posing health risks, according to new research.

A study by property insights platform Minut, which monitors rental properties in real-time, found that one in 11 holiday lets met the threshold for “heightened risk,” suggesting that over 41,000 holiday homes across the UK could be affected.

The findings raise concerns for families staying in holiday accommodation, particularly those with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems.

MOULD THRIVES IN EMPTY, UNHEATED PROPERTIES

The research analysed temperature and humidity readings from more than 10,000 properties. It found that holiday homes are particularly vulnerable in winter when they sit empty, with little to no heating or ventilation.

“Mould doesn’t just mean a guaranteed bad review, it’s a serious problem that can impact the health of guests,” said Nils Mattisson, CEO and co-founder of Minut.

“Exposure is particularly dangerous for people with respiratory conditions, allergies, and weakened immune systems. It’s simply not good enough that holiday homeowners and managers are not taking proactive measures to combat mould.”

Despite warnings, only 22% of owners or property managers took action to reduce the risk level after being notified, leaving 78% of high-risk properties unchecked.

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Mould thrives in environments with high humidity and sudden temperature changes, which lead to condensation.

Britain’s housing stock is the oldest in Europe, with over a third of properties built before 1946, meaning many lack modern insulation and ventilation needed to prevent damp and mould.

A PREVENTABLE PROBLEM

According to Mr Mattisson, tracking

humidity and temperature is the most effective way to manage the risk of mould.

“If you’re not regularly in the property, how can you be sure mould isn’t quietly taking hold? The short answer is you can’t,” he said.

“Monitoring humidity and temperature effectively gives you an early warning system so you can tackle problems before they turn into full-blown health risks. As winter approaches, holiday homeowners need to be aware of the heightened risks.

“With proper precautions and swift action, mould can be easily prevented,

giving guests the safe and clean environment they deserve.”

UK holiday lets at high risk of mould

London: 7,400

Cornwall: 2,200

West Wales: 1,200

Lake District: 1,100

Devon: 850

Brighton and Hove: 500

Anglesey: 290

Oxford: 370

Edinburgh: 630

Gwynedd: 680

Cotswolds: 620

Pembrokeshire: 490

Five ‘hidden heroines’ to be celebrated at Pembrokeshire’s new heritage centre

WHEN it comes to fighting for their nation – be it politically, culturally, socially and ethically – the women of Wales have proven themselves invincible.

Yet despite their significant achievements, Wales’ heroines have remained largely hidden, and their stories forgotten.

Now, thanks to the commitment of the ‘Monumental Welsh Women’, five influential females have finally been acknowledged following commissions to erect public statues in their honour.

“Despite what so many women have done and achieved in Wales, there wasn’t one single public statue commemorating their achievements,” said Pembrokeshire historian Angela John, who has been one of the Monumental Welsh Women who has campaigned for their recognition for the last eight years.

“There has been a complete lack of visibility.”

Later this week, Angela will be giving a talk in her home town of Newport, Pembrokeshire, on the five women selected.

The first was Betty Campbell, a black woman of poor parentage who was told at school that the problems for a working class black girl would be ‘insurmountable’. Despite this stark statement, Campbell won a place as one of the first female students to study at the Cardiff Teacher Training College where she enrolled whilst the mother of three young children. She taught at Butetown, Cardiff, for 28 years where, as a black teacher, she experienced some hostility from parents. In the 1970s, she became Wales’ first black head teacher at Mount Stuart where she began teaching children about slavery, black history and the system of apartheid.

“Betty Campbell was a huge influence in Wales who won the poll for the first statue which was unveiled in Central Square, Cardiff in 2021,” explained Angela John.

The following year saw the arrival

of Mountain Ash’s Elaine Morgan, born into a poor mining family but who won a scholarship to study at Oxford.

Following her graduation she taught for three years with the Workers’ Educational Association and began writing plays to help make ends meet. She then began making an impact in the male-dominated world of the small screen with her first television scripts accepted before she even owned her own TV set. Elaine Morgan went on to become a top TV writer, a feminist icon and a ground-breaking evolutionary theorist, winning a host of awards and scripting some of the best loved dramas in television, including ‘How Green Was My Valley’, and ‘The Life and Times of Lloyd George’.

The Elaine Morgan statue is located in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash.

In 2023, Ceredigion celebrated the arrival of Llangrannog’s Sarah Jane Rees, better known by her bardic name of Cranogwen.

Her first claim to fame was as a master mariner and for two years she worked as a sailor on cargo ships between Wales and France before returning to London and Liverpool to further her nautical education. She gained her master mariner’s certificate – a qualification that allowed her to command a ship in any part of the world. Back in West Wales, overcoming opposition to the appointment of a woman, she became a head-teacher at 21, educating the children of the village, and also taught navigation and seamanship to local young men. Many men who would later go on to sail and captain ships across the world’s oceans were trained by Sarah Jane Rees.

In 1865 her writing skills turned her into an instant Welsh celebrity as she became the first woman to win a poetry prize at the National Eisteddfod, beating some of the major male Welsh poets of the day. Her winning poem – Y Fodrwy Briodasal

At a tim when public speaking by women was frowned upon, Cranogwen embarked on a career as a lecturer, Temperance campaigner and a preacher, travelling across America twice, and often facing opposition from male preachers when she took to the pulpit.

Her statue is situated in the centre of Llangrannog, close to the church, where she was buried.

The fourth statue, erected in 2024, is that of the iconic Lady Rhondda (Margaret Haig Thomas), a suffragette who made the fight for the women’s vote front page news.

She brought Emmeline Pankhurst to Wales and confronted the anti-suffrage Prime Minister Asquith by jumping on his car. She also set fire to a post box and was sent to prison, where she went on hunger strike while during the First World War she ensured women played a vital role, recruiting them into the women’s services. She became Commissioner for Wales in the Women’s National Service Department, then Chief Controller of women’s recruitment at the Ministry of National Service in London.

She went on to become the greatest global business woman of her era and sat on the board of no fewer than 33 companies, and chaired seven of them. She oversaw an industrial empire of mines, shipping and newspapers and became the first, and to date, the only female, to be President of the Institute of Directors.

The fifth and final statue, which be unveiled later this year,is in honour of Elizabeth Andrews who was a great social reformer and campaigner for women’s rights.

She was one of the most influential Welsh female political activists of the early 20th century, being an internationalist, a suffragist and a socialist. Forced to leave school at 13 to help her parents

make ends meet, the Welsh-speaking dressmaker brought the needs of working-class women into the political arena because she shared their lives and voiced their hopes and fears.

She became the first Labour Party Women’s Organiser for Wales and set up women’s sections, describing them as ‘working women’s universities.’ One of her earliest tasks was translating leaflets from English to Welsh to urge women to use their newly-won vote. She also became one of Britain’s first female magistrates and put the needs of women and children at the heart of her campaigns.

“Whittling our original list of 50 down to just five has been difficult, as there have been so many incredible women here in Wales who have achieved so many significant things for their nation,” concluded Angela John.

“But throughout our campaign, the support we’ve had has been tremendous with regular features on the media and support from the Welsh government who decided to give us £20,000 funding towards the cost of each statue, with each one costing around £100,000 to produce.

“We’ve also seen a huge public interaction, particularly with the number of school children who’ve been involved.

“This shows the enormous changes in the ways in which people are now relating to Welsh history. Previously, it was taught around kings and queens, their battles and all their relevant dates, while now there’s far more attention being given to race and social issues, so history is no longer such an elite subject but is there for everybody. The fabric of everyday life has become as much a part of people’s understanding of history as anything else.

“And each our five statues have gone a long way in helping to address this.”

Angela John will be speaking at Bethlehem Chapel, Newport, Pembrokeshire this Wednesday, February 26, at 7pm.

(The Wedding Ring) – was a satire on the married woman’s destiny, using the wedding ring as a recurring symbol.

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

Stronger Starts grant opens riding opportunities for Dinefwr children

CHILDREN and young people of all abilities in Dinefwr now have the chance to experience horse riding, thanks to a £1,500 grant from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme.

Dinefwr Riding Group in Carmarthenshire received the funding to help children and young people learn to ride, regardless of disability or background. The initiative, voted for by local shoppers at Tesco stores, allows the charity to subsidise lessons, making them accessible to all.

Ellen Gladders, a volunteer at Dinefwr Riding Group, said: “Seeing the smiles on the faces of these children as they connect with the horses is truly heartwarming.

“We are incredibly grateful to the local community for voting for Dinefwr Riding School to receive this grant. Their support means we can now offer riding lessons to everyone, no matter their age or abilities.

“It’s amazing to see how horse riding helps children with physical challenges build strength, while those with autism often find it incredibly calming and engage more easily afterwards. This wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our local residents.”

Founded in 1989, Dinefwr Riding Group operates on over 140 acres of farmland in the foothills of the Black Mountains. The charity runs sessions every Wednesday during school term time, welcoming children from special needs schools and local council referrals. A team of 13 volunteers works with children facing various

challenges, from muscular conditions to autism.

Claire de Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “We are delighted to support Dinefwr Riding Group in their incredible work providing riding opportunities and fostering positive experiences for people of all ages and

abilities.

“Supporting groups like Dinefwr through our Stronger Starts grant reflects our commitment to building stronger, healthier communities together.”

Tesco shoppers in Carmarthenshire can continue supporting local schools

and children’s groups by placing their Stronger Starts blue tokens into the relevant voting box at store exits. The scheme, run in partnership with the charity Groundwork, funds community projects across the region, helping to make a lasting impact.

Public urged to nominate Dyfed-Powys Police heroes

WE CARE AWARD NOMINATIONS OPEN AHEAD OF 2025 FORCE AWARDS

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is inviting the public to nominate officers, staff members, and volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their duties for the 2025 We Care Award.

As part of the upcoming Force Awards ceremony, the force is seeking nominations for individuals who have made a real difference in people’s lives, providing exceptional care and support.

Whether it’s a police officer offering crucial updates during an investigation, a family liaison officer guiding loved ones through difficult times, or a dedicated PCSO improving community safety, the force wants to hear about their impact. The award also extends to those working behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth running of policing operations.

Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis said: “Every day, our officers, staff, and volunteers go the extra mile to serve

the public, often in ways that aren’t widely seen. The We Care Award is a fantastic way to recognise the compassion and commitment of those in Dyfed-Powys Police. If someone has made a positive impact on you, no matter how big or small, we’d love you to help us celebrate their work by making a nomination.”

HOW TO NOMINATE

Nominations can be submitted via an online form at https://forms.office. com/e/Db0BHcWS9x or by post to:

We Care Award, c/o Corporate Communications, Dyfed-Powys Police HQ, Llangunnor, Carmarthen, SA31 2PF

Submissions should include the nominee’s name, the reason for the nomination (with as much detail as possible), as well as the nominator’s name and contact details.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, 21 March 2025.

Nothing can come between our local RNLI crews and their cake!

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

THEIR task is to confront some of the most treacherous sea conditions that our waters churn up and their mission is to drop everything at a moment’s notice and risk their lives to ensure that the people at sea remain safe. Our RNLI lifeboat crews truly are an incredible bunch of people. But now two local RNLI stations have taken on an eclectic challenge which is way off the chart as far as their normal lifeboat skills are concerned.

Fishguard RNLI and Cardigan RNLI, which operates from Poppit Sands in north Pembrokeshire, have launched a fortnightly RNLI Bake-Off where crew members are encouraged to bring along their culinary creations – some of which are pretty impressive – for tasting and

judging.

“And some of the cakes that are being brought along are absolutely incredible,” said Gill Chalk, who is the administration officer for Cardigan RNLI.

“So not only do we have some fantastic lifeboat crews operating from the Cardigan and Fishguard stations, but we have some pretty impressive master bakers, too.”

The Bake-Off challenge was the idea of Fishguard’s All Weather coxswain, Gill Cox.

“She was the instigator and her aim was to bring the two RNLI stations together on a social basis so that everyone can get to know each other that little bit better. Obviously when we get a call out, the two stations often have to work alongside each other, but it’s nice to have the opportunity to socialise and have a bit of fun.”

Each bake-off has a set theme, and an impressive 20 entries were submitted to the first session (vegetable cakes), hosted by Fishguard RNLI. The home team scooped both first and second prizes with a delicious carrot creation and a courgette, thyme and lemon cake while the third prize was split between the two stations’ courgette and lime cakes, with surprise ingredients including avocado and pistachio. The Cardigan crew braved challenging sea conditions and arrived on board their Atlantic 85, which proved that nothing comes between an

RNLI crew and their cake.

Week two, and the crews were asked to bake tarts, this time with judging taking place in the crew room at the Cardigan station. Fishguard’s All-Weather Lifeboat travelled up to Poppit, while the tarts were carefully transported by road. And this time it was Cardigan who stole the show, winning both first and second prizes, with joint third going to Fishguard.

The third session took place last Sunday, when the bakers were asked to cook something free from one or more ingredients, such as dairy, gluten or animal product, and the final round will take place in two weeks’ time.

“It’s been absolutely incredible to see the effort that’s being put into preparing these cakes, with a fantastic standard of entries but also a pretty strong competitive element and a fair amount of kudos,” added Gill.

“We all get to taste the entries, and then individual stickers are awarded for the bake which we think is the best. So the winner is the one which has accrued the most stickers.

“When you consider that the vast majority of our crews are volunteers, many with young children, their commitment to the RNLI is truly amazing. And now they’re spending their Saturdays and Sundays baking these beautiful cakes for our bake-offs. They really are a very special group of people.”

Vincent Davies unveils refurbished Café Vincent

VINCENET DAVIES Department Store has officially reopened the newly refurbished Café Vincent, following an extensive renovation.

The firm said: “The team’s hard work and dedication over the past few months have brought the vision to life, creating a fresh and inviting space for

customers to enjoy. Their passion and teamwork have been evident throughout the project, resulting in a transformation that the entire team can be proud of.

“A heartfelt thank you goes out to our valued customers for their patience during the temporary pop-up café period. We truly appreciate your support and

are delighted by the positive feedback received so far.

“While a few final touches are still being added, we look forward to sharing more images of the revamped café with you soon. Come and experience the new Café Vincent for yourself!”

Gas upgrade plans drop-in event scheduled

WALES & WEST UTILITIES is set to carry out a £500,000 gas pipe upgrade in Pembroke St. Michael and Pembroke St. Mary South, with work scheduled to begin on March 31 and expected to finish in September.

The project aims to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for local homes and businesses for years to come.

Residents are invited to a drop-in session at the Town Hall foyer, Main

Street, Pembroke, SA71 4JS, on March 24, from 1:15pm to 5:45pm, where they can view plans and speak with the project team.

Wales & West Utilities is working with Pembrokeshire County Council to manage the project, and traffic measures will be put in place. Further details will be announced in due course.

Adam Smith, who is overseeing the work, said: “We know working in areas

MiKE EDWARDs

THE other day, I chanced upon the wife and her friend Morfa Price sitting at the kitchen counter with the local newspaper open in front of them.

They were playing their popular weekly game of ‘obituary bingo,’ in which each player takes turns exploring an appalling anecdote about the recently deceased or their wider family.

I remember my late mother and her even later sister huddled around the kitchen table when local papers were the size of bedspreads. They indulged in a similar pastime every Thursday when Ivy popped around for tea and a slice of whatever Mr Kipling had on offer that week.

At the time, I was a young and impressionable lad upon whom Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities’” had been inflicted in the preceding school year.

The scene that greeted me on a Thursday morning during those school holidays made me remember nothing more than Charles Dickens’ portrayal of the tricoteuses gathered around the guillotine, needles clacking, as they waited for the next luckless soul to be parted simultaneously from their head and their life. I would not say that either my sainted mother or her sister quite reminded me of Madame Defarge; however, it would be remiss of me not to mention that they both seemed to take pleasure in tattling over the bones of the deceased, as it were.

“Do you remember? His mam had the shop on the corner. With the septic leg that time and the sister with a funny eye? His wife was the girl Probert whose dad fell in the well after one too many in The Bell and Dragon.”

There would be much clucking, which as time went on came to hear like nothing more than the endless knitting around the condemned during the Reign of Terror.

And there I was, of a sudden, standing in my own kitchen, gazing on my own wife and Morfa doing almost exactly the same. Of course, the glory days of obituaries have almost all long gone. There was a time when even a scoutmaster got two tightly set columns of eight-point type with a list of mourners measured in inches of newsprint. If a local councillor or magistrate bit the big one, you could be looking at a photo, as well as copious tributes from the hypocrites who hated them when they were still alive.

These days, the information provided is much sparser – ‘a long illness nobly borne’ has almost vanished from the vocabulary of the obituary writer as have other circumlocutions for dementia and cancer. Although ‘in tragic circumstances’ still makes the occasional appearance.

The wife and Morfa love picking over these slim biographical pickings. They’re like Bletchley Park codebreakers. The information they can extract from a 200word write-up or a 30-word death notice is almost unbelievable.

like this is not ideal, but this upgrade is essential to keep the gas flowing safely. Our engineers will be on-site throughout to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible, while keeping disruption to a minimum.”

He added that the upgrades will also future-proof the gas network, making it ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane as part of efforts to support a greener energy system.

I have a plan to beat this sort of postmortem analysis. I intend to be like Enoch or Elijah in the Old Testament and ascend to Heaven before the point of death. As I am not at all religious, I am counting on God having spotted my mother, Ivy, my beloved and, Morfa Price and having a good sense of humour.

After last wweekend’s result in Cardiff, I suspect I’m on fairly solid ground, as it showed there’s always hope.

ENGLAND: TOM WILLIS

Ireland: Sam Prendergast

Wales show fight but

IRELAND continued their march towards another Six Nations title with a hard-fought 27-18 victory over Wales at the Principality Stadium. While Andy Farrell’s men ultimately secured the win, the hosts delivered their best performance of the tournament so far, proving far more competitive than many had anticipated.

First half: A competitive opening

From the first whistle, Wales showed an energy and cohesion that had been missing in their previous matches. A sell-out Cardiff crowd roared them on as they matched Ireland’s early intensity, refusing to allow the visitors to dominate proceedings as they so often have in recent encounters.

It was Ireland who struck first, with Jack Conan powering over the line in the seventh minute after relentless pressure inside the Welsh 22. Sam Prendergast, stepping in for Johnny Sexton’s longterm successor Jack Crowley, slotted the conversion to make it 7-0.

However, unlike in previous matches where Wales had struggled to respond to early setbacks, this time they hit back almost immediately. A pinpoint cross-field kick from Sam Costelow found Rio Dyer, who soared above James Lowe to touch down in the corner. Costelow’s conversion attempt drifted wide, but at 7-5, Wales had sent a clear message: they were here to fight.

The remainder of the half saw Ireland’s trademark structured play tested by Wales’ aggressive line speed and improved breakdown work. While the visitors added a penalty through Prendergast, the Welsh continued to press, forcing errors from an Irish side that is usually so clinical. Costelow’s boot kept the scoreboard ticking, and at halftime, Ireland led by a slender 13-11 margin.

Second half: Ireland’s quality tells, but wales stay in the fight

With the match finely poised, the second half began in breathless fashion.

but Ireland’s class prevails

Ireland sought to assert their authority, and their cohesion in attack began to stretch the Welsh defence. A moment of brilliance from Caelan Doris, breaking through a tired Welsh defensive line before offloading to Dan Sheehan for a crucial try, shifted momentum back towards the visitors.

Prendergast’s conversion made it 2011, and for a brief moment, it looked as if Ireland would pull away. But this newlook Welsh team had other ideas. Gareth Thomas epitomised their resilience with a thunderous hit on Bundee Aki, forcing a turnover that led to another attacking opportunity. A flowing backline move saw George North slice through before offloading to Tomos Williams, who dotted down under the posts. Costelow’s conversion closed the gap to 20-18, setting up a grandstand finish.

Wales, sensing an opportunity for an upset, surged forward, but crucial handling errors at key moments allowed Ireland to escape unscathed. As the clock ticked down, the visitors’ superior squad depth and game management proved decisive. A penalty won inside the Welsh half provided the platform for one final assault, and a slick move off a rolling maul saw Josh van der Flier crash over to seal the victory. Prendergast’s conversion added the final gloss to the scoreline, but the margin of victory did not reflect the closeness of the contest.

Final thoughts: A step forward for

Wales, a step closer

for Ireland

For Ireland, this was another significant step towards retaining their Six Nations crown and securing the Triple Crown. Their ability to withstand pressure and execute clinically in key moments was the difference, with players like Doris, Sheehan, and Prendergast making telling contributions.

Yet, despite the loss, Wales can take great encouragement from this performance. Interim head coach Matt

Sherratt had demanded a response from his side, and he got one. This was a display full of grit, intelligence, and attacking ambition—qualities that had been missing in recent matches. Young talents such as Costelow and Dyer shone, while the experienced core of North, Williams, and captain Dafydd Jenkins provided the leadership needed to challenge one of the world’s best teams. Though they remain winless in the tournament, this was a performance that should instill belief in the squad and fans alike. If they can replicate this level in their remaining fixtures, that first victory may not be far away.

Final score: Wales 18-27 Ireland

LOOK OUT FoR...

WALES: DAN EDWARDS

SCOTLAND: TOM JORDAN

ScotS must be ‘ruthless’ against Wales

FORMER Scotland captain Rory Lawson has described the prospect of losing to Wales in the Six Nations as “incomprehensible” and insists Scotland must channel their frustration from the narrow defeat to England into a ruthless display at Murrayfield.

Gregor Townsend’s side suffered a 1615 loss at Twickenham, despite scoring three tries, ending any realistic hopes of claiming the Six Nations title. With two matches remaining, Lawson believes the Scots have no choice but to respond with a commanding performance against a struggling Welsh team.

“Scotland must win that game and are expected to win that game against Wales,” Lawson told the BBC’s Scotland Rugby Podcast.

Wales, now under interim head

coach Matt Sherratt, showed signs of improvement in their 27-18 defeat to Ireland. However, they have endured a dismal run of 15 consecutive Test losses. Lawson acknowledges Sherratt’s impact but remains confident in Scotland’s superiority, particularly at home.

“Matt Sherratt’s changed the narrative, he’s changed the mindset of not only the Welsh team but the Welsh public,” Lawson said. “But it’s a different story when you lift that Welsh team up and take them out of Cardiff.

“For Scotland, they have to exert what they would view as cohesion, togetherness, and an understanding of what it takes to win big Test matches at Murrayfield.”

Reflecting on the missed opportunities at Twickenham, Lawson urged Scotland

to be more clinical when they face Wales on 8th March.

“They have to take all the frustration of Allianz Stadium from the weekend and say, ‘We’re going to be ruthless. When we get the chance in the red zone, we’re going to be patient, but we’re going to be punchy and we’re going to take our opportunities when they come’.”

Although the championship is now out of reach, Lawson insists there is still plenty to play for in the remaining fixtures against Wales and France.

“We know with the Scotland team, they

create opportunities, they can create field position, and they have game breakers,” he added.

“Scotland have to go into this game looking to deliver a result that takes us on the road to Paris with some element of hope of grabbing something from this championship, albeit only two wins from four after that Wales game, hopefully.”

With Scotland seeking to salvage pride and momentum, all eyes will be on Murrayfield to see if they can deliver the response Lawson demands.

Tenby streets packed for annual pancake run

TENBY lifeboat crew joined in, as locals and visitors gathered in Tudor Square for some half-term fun at the now-famous annual pancake race.

Crowds lined the streets as competitors of all ages took on the 60-metre dash, flipping pancakes as they ran. The highly anticipated showdown among members of Tenby’s RNLI crew was once again the highlight, providing plenty of excitement and laughter.

Participants brought their own frying pans and pancakes, demonstrating impressive flipping skills in a spirited contest that has become a cherished community tradition.

Organisers confirmed that this year’s event raised valuable funds for Tenby RNLI, with each competitor contributing a £3 entry donation. All proceeds from the day will directly support the lifesaving efforts of the town’s dedicated volunteer lifeboat crew.

Speaking after the races, a spokesperson from Tenby RNLI said: “It’s always wonderful to see the community come together and support such a fun event. The lifeboat crew were determined to retain their bragging rights, and we’re thrilled with the turnout and generosity shown again this year.”

Planning for next year’s pancake race is already underway, with organ

Pictures by Gareth Davies

Don’t let AI exploit Welsh journalism—its impact could be disastrous

THE Uk GOVERNMENT must urgently reconsider proposals allowing tech giants unrestricted use of online content without compensation to its creators.

Today, The Pembrokeshire Herald, alongside newspapers and news organisations across Wales, devotes our leading article to an issue with potentially catastrophic consequences—not only for regional journalism, but for the UK’s entire creative industry.

Under planned changes to copyright legislation, multinational AI companies would have the freedom to train their systems using text, photographs, music, and any online content without paying the creators behind that work. These companies could then summarise, reproduce, or even directly copy the content—profiting substantially while the original creators receive nothing. This threatens the very foundation of Welsh journalism and undermines our ability to continue producing quality, locally-focused stories. Our journalists tirelessly cover vital issues for Pembrokeshire: from coastal erosion in Tenby and the challenges facing Milford Haven Port to the future of agriculture in rural communities and crucial debates over tourism and

second homes.

Quality journalism holds authority to account, from Pembrokeshire County Council to the Hywel Dda Health Board and the Welsh Government. Our investigative journalism gives a voice to communities across Pembrokeshire, shining a light on stories and issues others may overlook.

Editor Tom Sinclair said: “These changes represent nothing less than an existential threat to journalism in Pembrokeshire and beyond. Allowing multinational corporations to exploit our hard-earned work without compensation would severely damage the quality and integrity of local journalism.”

He added: “Our journalists tirelessly cover issues that genuinely matter to our communities. If AI companies are permitted free access to our content, it will stifle our ability to deliver independent, investigative reporting that holds power to account and gives a voice to local people.”

Tom Sinclair concluded: “We stand united with Wales’ journalists, photographers, musicians, writers, and creators. The Government must act decisively to protect our creative sectors, ensuring fair compensation for those whose efforts and ingenuity

economies dependent on creative industries.

The creative industry in the UK employs around 2.4 million people and contributes approximately £126 million to the economy. Allowing big tech unrestricted access to this creative output would severely damage the sector, reducing opportunities, stifling innovation, and harming local

We stand united with Wales’ journalists, photographers, musicians, writers, and creators. The Government must protect our creative sectors, ensuring fair compensation for those whose efforts and ingenuity enrich Welsh life. Pembrokeshire—and Wales—cannot afford to lose its independent voice.

enrich Welsh life. Pembrokeshire— and Wales—cannot afford to lose its independent voice.”

Herald editor Tom Sinclair

BBC Make a Difference Awards launched in Wales for first time

BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru are joining forces to celebrate Wales’ community heroes with the launch of the BBC Make a Difference Awards 2025.

Led by BBC Radio Cymru’s Shân Cothi and Radio Wales’ Lucy Owen, BBC Cymru Wales is calling on listeners to nominate their local heroes.

The Make a Difference Awards, which launch for the first time in Wales this year, will celebrate and recognise people who do incredible things for each other and their local communities, shining a light on these everyday, unsung heroes.

There are eight categories, including the Community Group Award for a group of people who have helped to change the lives of others within their community; the Young Hero Award, which will honour an individual under the age of 16 who has made a significant positive impact in their community; and the Active Award, which will recognise individuals or groups who have used physical activity or sport to improve the lives of those in their community.

Finalists will be selected by a panel of judges and awards will be given in each category.

Winners will be announced at the Make a Difference Awards ceremony on 20 September 2025.

Rhuanedd Richards, Director of BBC Cymru Wales, said: “We’re so excited

to be bringing the Make a Difference Awards to Wales this year with the support of BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru, led by our fantastic team of presenters. We know there will be lots of people out there who deserve to be recognised for the positive impact they’ve had in their local community, no matter how big or how small. So now is the time to help them shine!”

Nominations are now open and will close on Monday 31 March 2025 at 5:00pm. For a full list of categories – and details of how to nominate someone, go to bbc.co.uk/makeadifference, where you can also see full Terms and our Privacy Notice.

Categories 2025:

• The Volunteer Award – awarded to an individual who makes a notable difference to their community by giving their time voluntarily to help others.

• The Young Hero Award – awarded to someone under 16 who has made a positive impact in their community or achieved something exceptional.

• The Great Neighbour Award –awarded to an individual who helps to make the neighbourhood a better place to live or work in, either on a regular basis or through a single act of kindness.

• The Active Award – awarded to an individual or group of people who have used physical activity or sport as a way of improving the lives of those in their community.

• The Animal Award – awarded to either a remarkable animal that improves people’s lives, or an individual or group of people who improve the welfare of animals.

• The Green Award – awarded to an

individual or group of people who improve or conserve their local environment.

• The Fundraiser Award – awarded to an individual or group of people who have gone the extra mile to raise funds for a good cause.

• The Community Group Award –awarded to a group of people who have helped to change the lives of others within their community.

A jam-packed timetable at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven

IT’S all happening at the Torch Theatre this spring and summer. kicking off with the Torch Youth Theatre Spring production of Ravers, the Summer Youth Theatre production of The Bangers and Chips Explosion by Brough Girling, and finally the ever-popular summer schools make a welcome return with opportunities for Juniors, Seniors, and Adults – there really is something for everyone!

We’re only a few weeks away from Torch Youth Theatre’s latest production, Ravers, which promises to be a fun filled evening of comedy. This brandnew play written by Rikki Beadle-Blair specifically for young people aged 15 -18, runs in the studio theatre from Thursday 6 March to Saturday 8 March with performances starting at 7.30pm nightly. Don’t forget to get your tickets!

The Torch Theatre has you covered for a summer fun too! Rehearsals begin for their spectacular full youth theatre production The Bangers and Chips

Explosion in April. The playis based on a popular children’s novel and adapted specifically for youth theatre’s just like the ones at the Torch. It’s Roald Dahl meets David Walliams in this wild and raucous, family friendly comedy, which promises to be a great experience for all the youth theatre members and will run from 21 to 23 July.

“There so many brilliant characters for our young actors to get their teeth into – useless headteachers, efficient school secretaries, a monstrous dinner lady, and a gang of comic book crooks!” said Tim Howe, Torch’s Senior Manager Youth and Community who wrote the adaptation and directs the youth theatre.

“Stink bombs, kidnapping, abseiling, mistaken identity and a heavy dose of comic disguises all fill up the action of this play, which will delight our audiences! If you saw last year’s The Wind In The Willows, the you’ll know exactly what to expect from our young people, and this promises to be a night of theatre which won’t disappoint!” said

Tim, who can’t wait to see you and your young people join in on the fun.

But Torch’s summer of fun doesn’t stop in July. Their in-demand summer schools make a welcome return for more fun filled creative activities.

“Our Summer School provisions are the highlight of many people’s Summers, especially since we have expanded our courses to include an adult option. We are so pleased that thanks to our sponsors Milford Haven Port Authority and The Ingles Charitable trust that we can continue to offer all this provision at accessible price points, with a range of payment plans available.” said Tim.

This year the Torch is offering sessions called Dramatic Detectives for ages seven to 11, running daily from 10am to 3pm, Monday 4 to Friday 8 August, Playmakers for ages 11 -18 running from 10am to 4pm, Monday 11 to Friday 15 August, and Show off! for those 18 and over, welcomes writers, singers and performers … All talents are welcomed for the Adult Summer School

which runs on Thursday evenings throughout August with a showcase performance on Saturday 30 August.

“Our summer schools are for total novices as well as those just wanting to brush up on their dramatic skills. Everyone is welcome and the best thing about our summer schools is that there’s no audition to join us, you can just turn up and get involved,” said Tim.

He concluded: “We can’t wait to welcome you to the Torch this summer, as either a participant or an audience member! And if you would like to support any of this amazing work for our community then please do check out our membership schemes or how to make a donation – it is your generosity that helps us provide a safe creative space for people, give them the confidence to find their voice, and the courage to be who they want to be.”

For further information, visit the Torch Theatre website www.torchtheatre. co.uk or phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

DOPE GIRLS

“DOPE GIRLS” is a compelling new six-part drama series that transports viewers to the vibrant and tumultuous streets of post-World War I Soho, London.

Set in 1918, the series delves into the lives of women who, empowered by their wartime roles, are reluctant to return to traditional domesticity. Instead, they immerse themselves in the burgeoning underground club scene, exploring unprecedented opportunities on both sides of the law.

The narrative centers on Kate Galloway, portrayed by Julianne Nicholson (“Mare of Easttown”), a widowed mother determined to provide for her daughter, Evie (Eilidh Fisher). Facing financial hardship, Kate ventures into Soho’s illicit nightlife, establishing a nightclub that becomes a nexus for jazz, moonshine, and the era’s evolving social dynamics. Her

path intersects with Violet Davies (Eliza Scanlen of “Little Women”), one of the first female officers in the Metropolitan Police, assigned to infiltrate this clandestine world. Within the club’s pulsating environment, they encounter Billie Cassidy (Umi Myers), a captivating dancer whose life is irrevocably altered by Kate’s ambitions.

The series also features Geraldine James as Isabella, the formidable matriarch of the Salucci crime family, adding layers of intrigue and tension to the storyline. Created and written by Polly Stenham and Alex Warren, “Dope Girls” is inspired by historical events and offers a fresh perspective on the birth of modern nightlife, highlighting the resilience and audacity of women in a transforming society.

“Dope Girls” premiered on BBC One on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 9:15 PM. For those

who prefer to binge-watch, all six episodes are available on BBC iPlayer. Filmed in Wales with the support of Creative Wales, the series brings to life a forgotten chapter of British history with authenticity and flair.

Critics have lauded the show for its dynamic portrayal of a pivotal era. The Financial Times describes it as a “heavily stylised descent into post-first world war Britain’s murky underworld,” noting its “intoxicating atmosphere” and “anarchic spirit.” The Guardian highlights its “plucky period drama” essence, set against Soho’s “heady underworld,” and draws parallels to the success of “Peaky Blinders.” With its rich character development, immersive setting, and gripping plotlines, “Dope Girls” is poised to be a standout series, offering viewers a blend of historical drama and thrilling storytelling.

FANS of Stephen k ing will soon have a new tale to unravel, as The Monkey, a horror-comedy film adapted from k ing’s 1980 short story, makes its big-screen debut.

Directed by Osgood Perkins, known for Longlegs and The Blackcoat’s Daughter, the film brings to life a creepy, supernatural tale of family, curses, and a sinister toy.

Set in the 1960s, the film follows twin brothers Hal and Bill, who discover a strange wind-up monkey toy in their father’s attic. The seemingly innocent trinket becomes the source of terror after the toy’s cymbals clash, triggering a series of gruesome and unexplained deaths that tear the family apart. Desperate to escape the curse, Hal and Bill go their separate ways, but when the monkey resurfaces 25 years later, the estranged siblings must reunite to confront the evil that has haunted them.

The movie features an impressive cast, with Theo James taking on the roles of both Hal and Bill, while Tatiana Maslany portrays their mother, Lois Shelburn. Elijah Wood also makes an appearance as Ted Hammerman, alongside Christian Convery as young Hal and Bill, and Colin O’Brien as Petey, Hal’s son.

Produced by horror maestro James Wan, best known for The Conjuring and Saw, The Monkey promises a blend of spinechilling horror and dark humor, all wrapped up in a distinctive retro aesthetic. The film, distributed by Neon in the U.S. and Black Bear internationally, brings Perkins’ signature eerie visual style and King’s brand of macabre storytelling together in a way that has already sparked plenty of buzz.

Since its premiere in U.S. theaters on February 21, 2025, The Monkey has been

generating mixed critical reviews. While some have praised its haunting imagery and bold direction, others have found it lacking in originality. Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert. com awarded the film three out of four stars, calling it an engaging blend of suspense and dark humor. However,

For those looking to experience a twisted blend of family drama and supernatural horror, The Monkey might just be the film to watch. The movie opens in UK cinemas on February 25, 2025, giving British audiences the chance to experience the eerie thrills for themselves.

Whether it becomes a new cult classic or simply a momentary blip on the horror radar, The Monkey is sure to make an impression. Don’t miss it when it hits theaters near you.

Tech and Taff

Microsoft’s Quantum Leap or Just Another Qubit Quandary?

Now, boyos, if you thought your computer was fast, wait until you hear what Microsoft has been up to. They’ve been chasing a dream that sounds like something out of a sci-fi novel – the topological qubit. If you don’t know what that means, don’t worry, neither do most of us. But essentially, it’s a fancy new type of quantum computing unit that could be the key to making practical quantum computers a reality.

For years, quantum computing has been like the hoverboard from Back to the Future – always just out of reach, always promised, never quite delivered. But now, Microsoft claims they’re closer than ever to cracking the quantum code, thanks to these special qubits that are supposedly more stable than the ones currently being used by the likes of Google and IBM.

What’s the Big Deal?

The problem with quantum computers so far is that they’re about as reliable as a second-hand Skoda with 200,000 miles on the clock. Normal qubits (the building blocks of quantum computers) are so delicate that even the tiniest interference – a stray atom, a bit of heat, someone sneezing in the next room – can make them go haywire. Microsoft, however, believes their new topological qubit could be the answer, as it should, in theory, be far more stable and resistant to errors.

If they’re right, this could be a gamechanger. Quantum computers work in a fundamentally different way from the ones we use today, solving problems in minutes that would take traditional computers thousands of years. That means potential breakthroughs in medicine, materials science, artificial intelligence – even cracking the world’s toughest encryption (so don’t expect your passwords to be safe forever).

But Here’s the Catch…

Before we all get carried away thinking we’ll be running quantum versions of Minecraft or streaming Gavin & Stacey in 16K, Microsoft still hasn’t built a working quantum computer yet. They’ve made promises before, and each time the finish line seems to move a little further away. Other companies, like Google and IBM, have already built quantum machines, but they’re not particularly useful yet –more like glorified science experiments than anything you’d put in your office. What Microsoft is doing differently is betting on a more complex but potentially more powerful approach. If they can get this to work, it could put them ahead of the competition. But if it doesn’t, it could just be another case of big talk, no qubit.

What Does This Mean for Us in Wales?

Look, you’re not going to be popping into Currys in Carmarthen and picking up a quantum laptop any time soon. But Wales does have a growing tech sector, and quantum computing could eventually have big implications. From advanced cybersecurity to new AI-driven industries, if we position ourselves right, we could be at the forefront of this revolution. Maybe it’s time for Aberystwyth University to start offering degrees in quantum computing – after all, if they can teach people to herd sheep, surely they can teach them to herd electrons.

So, is this the future or just another overhyped tech fantasy? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure – if Microsoft’s topological qubit really works, we could be on the verge of the biggest computing revolution since the internet. And if it doesn’t, well, at least we’ll still have our trusty PCs, chugging along like a well-worn Ford Fiesta.

Pet Shop Boys head to Cardiff

THE PET SHOP BOYS have been announced as the latest headline act set to perform at Cardiff Castle this summer.

The iconic duo, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, will bring their acclaimed Dreamworld: The Greatest Hits Live tour to the Welsh capital on Thursday, 31st July. Fans can expect a night of pure pop pleasure as the duo serve up their signature West End Girls swagger and Go West grandeur.

Fans will be able to access pre-sale tickets from 9am on Thursday, 27th February, with general sale opening at 8am on Friday, 29th February, via depotlive.co.uk and ticketmaster.co.uk. It’s a case of Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots of Money) for those eager to grab their tickets early!

The Pet Shop Boys, officially recognised by The Guinness Book of Records as the most successful duo in UK music history, have been a dominant force in the industry since signing with Parlophone Records in 1985. Their extensive career boasts 44 UK Top 30 singles, including 22 Top 10 hits and four chart-topping number ones. They have also released 15 UK Top 10 studio albums, with their latest, Nonetheless, reaching number two in the UK charts upon its release in April 2024 and achieving Top 10 status worldwide.

The Dreamworld: The Greatest Hits Live tour began in Milan in May 2022, captivating audiences across Europe and the UK. Last year, the duo played a soldout five-night residency at the Royal Opera House before headlining Radio 2 In The Park in Lancashire. Over their illustrious career, the Ivor Novello and BRIT Award winners have performed in 63 countries to millions of fans, headlining many of the world’s most prestigious festivals. With

a setlist that is sure to include timeless classics like It’s a Sin and Always on My Mind, fans will be Left to My Own Devices in excitement ahead of the show.

The Cardiff Castle show is part of TK Maxx presents Depot Live, organised by promoters DEPOT Live and Cuffe and Taylor. Speaking about the announcement, Nick Saunders from DEPOT Live said: “We’re beyond excited to welcome the legendary Pet Shop Boys to Cardiff Castle for what promises to be an unforgettable night. Their music has shaped generations, and this show will be a true celebration of their iconic sound in the heart of the city.”

The performance is one of several major events set for Cardiff Castle in summer 2025, with other headline acts including Rag’n’Bone Man, Faithless, Snow Patrol, The Human League, James, Fontaines D.C., Alanis Morissette, Elbow, Sting, The Script, Jess Glynne, and UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, with more names yet to be announced.

Julian Murray, promoter at Cuffe and Taylor, added: “Pet Shop Boys are the epitome of the British music icon. With 40 years of hits behind them, this is sure to be one of the highlights of TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle. I cannot wait for this show!”

TK Maxx has joined DEPOT Live and Cuffe and Taylor as the presenting partner for the series, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the arts and local communities.

For fans eager to secure their spot, Pet Shop Boys tickets will be available via Ticketmaster, with pre-sale on 27th February and general sale starting on 29th February. Don’t be Jealousy of those who get their tickets early – make sure you Go West (or at least to the ticket site) and secure yours before they’re gone!

sPliT FicTiON

ALRIGHT, let’s take a deep breath, open our minds, and plunge headfirst into the psychedelic, cooperative wonderland that is Split Fiction—a game so brimming with creativity, so laced with the ineffable magic of human imagination, that it threatens to tear apart the very fabric of what we consider “gaming.”

Now, this isn’t just any old buttonmashing, microtransaction-infested, dopamine-rinsing corporate mush. No, this is Hazelight Studios, the absolute mavericks of modern co-op gaming—the very same rebels who brought us It Takes Two. And once again, they’ve returned to remind us of something truly profound: life, much like storytelling, is a deeply interconnected experience.

At its heart, Split Fiction is a metaphysical tug-of-war between two writers—Mio, the sci-fi brainbox, and Zoe, the fantasy dream-weaver. These two are thrust into a surreal, AI-infested simulation hell-bent on hijacking their creative genius. Why? Because, dear friends, the world we live in doesn’t value originality—it seeks to commodify and control it. But our heroes? They’re having none of it

As they battle their way through

a kaleidoscope of worlds—one drenched in cybernetic dystopia, the other steeped in high-fantasy mythology—their only means of escape is by fusing their visions together, blending steel and sorcery in a way that transcends their individualistic leanings. And therein lies the deeper message: unity, synergy, and the dissolution of binary thinking.

This is a co-op game through and through—none of this soulless, AI-controlled companion nonsense. You’ll need an actual mate (or a stranger, if you fancy rolling the digital dice on human connection).

The Friend’s Pass lets one person own the game while another joins for free, because Hazelight clearly understand that true artistry cannot be constrained by capitalism’s grimy little paws.

Every level reinvents itself, flipping between different mechanics—one minute you’re piloting a hovercraft through a cybernetic warzone, the next you’re taming dragons in an enchanted forest. It’s not just variety for the sake of spectacle; it’s a deliberate, intelligent merging of two disparate realities, illustrating the power of contrast and collaboration.

And the Side Stories? Extra

HOROSCOPES

mini-adventures designed to flesh out the backstories of our protagonists, offering deeper insights into the creative forces that shape them. A game that respects narrative depth? In this economy? Unbelievable.

Built in Unreal Engine 5, Split Fiction isn’t just stunning—it’s an ocular symphony. Expect silkysmooth 60fps action, whether you’re dodging laser blasts in a neon-lit megacity or scaling the vines of some ancient enchanted monolith. It’s the kind of visual storytelling that taps directly into your subconscious and plants itself there, growing like some sacred digital mycelium.

Early previews are calling Split Fiction a potential Game of the Year contender, but that’s almost irrelevant. What matters is the spirit of the thing—the ethos of shared creativity, the radical rejection of corporate blandness, the unashamed embrace of art as a collaborative force.

It is, in short, an anarchic celebration of storytelling, the dissolution of duality, and the wild, untamed magic of human connection. So, grab a mate, jump in, and prepare to have your perceptions split wide open.

the next few weeks to be absolutely wonderful. The two of you will be so close you’ll wonder how you ever took a breath before you met, and it will only get better. If you’re single, someone could be along shortly who matches the mental picture you’ve carried for ages. Good luck!

LIBRA

A coworker or authority figure you’ve been spending a lot of time with lately could reach out to you for your advice, counsel, or benefit of your experience. If your past track record is any indication, you’ll be more than happy to do what you can to help. While you’re in the process of doing what you can for them, you may also discover an untapped need to learn something you’ve been mesmerized by for a long time.

SCORPIO

Someone who’s been on your mind a great deal lately could contact you soon, maybe even today. The problem is they’ll want a lot more from you than just the chance to catch up. Does this mean you should let them take advantage of you and the tender, pensive mood you’re in? Not at all. But if you need to let them know how you feel about the way you left things, even if it’s just to gain closure, do it. You, more than anyone else, need to know where you stand.

SAGITTARIUS

There are a lot of tentative ideas coming to the forefront today. Many of the loose plans you cooked up with a friend a few months ago are coming up again in conversation, and you may need to make a commitment. Too much is still left up in the air, and things need to get finalized. Get in touch with all the main players (preferably in person) and agree on a main detail or date. It’s going to take some effort to make everyone come to an agreement.

CAPRICORN

Something that is very unlike you is about to unfold. You’ll want to have a very serious conversation about a very serious romantic matter. This doesn’t mean you’re losing that world-famous ability to make light of any matter that isn’t worth the effort, something you’re an expert at sniffing out. But it may mean that someone who thinks more of petty details than you will think you’re suddenly on their team.

AQUARIUS

Badger and the Art of the Deal

DONALD TRUMP’s conduct as US President is contemptible and a parody of what a strong and effective government must achieve. His ideas, or rather the ideas of those who whisper in his ear, are crackpot and will result in American debt piling up ever higher, leaving future generations to pick up the cost of his folly.

However, Badger does not wish to dwell on Donald Trump’s obvious and multitudinous shortcomings. Instead, Badger wants to place Donald Trump correctly in the American approach to foreign policy.

For the Americans, foreign policy has always been transactional and aimed at protecting what American presidents and the American legislature have regarded as American self-interest. At its heart lies two key concepts: the sphere of influence and trade. The Americans fought wars in Korea and Vietnam to curtail the expansion of communism’s sphere of influence in South-East Asia. Throughout the twentieth century, America fought wars directly, indirectly, and by proxy in Latin and South America, Iran, Afghanistan, and Africa. In each case, American economic interests underlined American geopolitical aims. One did not exist without the other.

And, the point is, that remains the position.

Consider this example, readers: during the Obama administration, the US concluded a trade agreement with South Africa. The agreement fulfilled two aims. South Africa had limited preferential treatment for its exports to the US, thereby becoming closer to the US, while China expanded its economic influence across sub-Saharan Africa. Part of the exchange involved an agreement on treatments and vaccinations for HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS. AIDS is a crisis in large parts of sub-Saharan Africa, especially in South Africa. The South African government needed effective drugs to treat the epidemic and signed a deal to buy those drugs from the US. In exchange, the US insisted that South Africa protect US companies’ patents for drugs and not buy generic (cheaper) drugs for its healthcare system. Humanitarianism came with a big dollar price tag. And that is what happens when there’s a disparity in the bargaining positions

between two entities, whether national or corporate.

That’s one example, but for the UK, there’s a far better example closer to home.

Since Churchill, successive UK governments have emphasised the importance of the special relationship between the USA and the UK. Readers, that is piffle, romantic nonsense, and the delusion of a country whose industry and empire were in decline long before 1939.

Before entering the Second World War in December 1941, the US supported the UK through access to purchase credits for American goods and the limited supply of armaments. It didn’t do so out of the goodness of its collective heart or from any fond fellow feeling. Internal US politics were strongly isolationist, and there was limited congressional support for embroiling the US in a European conflict.

The deal the American government imposed on the UK, which had Hobson’s Choice, had huge implications for the UK and the US’s future. The UK was forced to dismantle its system of tariffs and currency controls, giving the US a huge competitive advantage

in the Pacific. It handed over strategic bases in the Caribbean, including Guantanamo Bay. British companies with US subsidiaries were forced to sell up to US companies. The US dictated how much the UK government could borrow and how much it could hold in currency reserves. The UK could not use raw materials shipped to it from the US for export goods, thereby effectively ending the UK’s long-standing trade links with South America and opening the door for US companies. The UK Government was forced to liquidate its US assets and sell them off at fire sale prices.

Those concessions allowed the UK to hang in the war until 1942. However, the post-war costs can be measured in hundreds of millions, if not billions, in lost trade opportunities and the end of the UK’s largely illusory imperial power. The US made out like gangbusters.

In addition, in 1945, the US loaned the UK such a large sum of money (around twice the size of the then-UK economy) that it was not paid off until 2006. In today’s money, the loan would be equivalent to £119 billion. Among the conditions of the loan were the end of the sterling area and full currency convertibility. Those conditions

hindered the UK’s post-war economic recovery. Again, the US made out like gangbusters on the back of the UK’s indebtedness to it and the prior forced transfer of British industrial assets to the US.

Churchill described the US technique in glowing terms in public and parliament. In private, he compared the US’s actions to that of a bailiff taking a debtor’s last stick of furniture. Churchill even composed a furious telegram to Roosevelt berating him about the US’s treatment of the UK. Before it could be sent, wiser heads prevailed, and the explosive telegram was never sent. The US entered the war two months later.

That history lesson, Badger hopes, puts the present US administration’s approach into context.

Other countries have acquired overseas territories by conquest, occupation, and colonisation. The USA has colonised the world through trade and economic might. Along the way, in countries like Guatemala, Haiti, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Iran, Iraq, and Cuba (all between 1900 and 1960), the US pulled the strings to force regime changes favouring US economic interests.

The US government’s behaviour regarding Ukraine is explicable as a consequence and continuation of historical US foreign policy.

Donald Trump has a mobster mentality. To the extent he thinks of anything at all, it’s all about the deal. There’s no art to Donald Trump’s deal. The world is not made up of people; it consists of assets to be traded.

Readers, you can make a moral judgement on Donald Trump’s naked espousal of American self-interest. You may be morally outraged by his crass conduct. Like European leaders, you might wish to clutch your pearls and howl blue murder. However, the Teflon Don is only saying out loud and offensively the bit that previous US Presidents expressed through back channels in slightly more diplomatic language.

There’s little art in Donald Trump’s deal. It’s an exercise in power and inequality in power. Nobody wants to wake up next to a horse’s head. Once you understand that and place it in context, you will be prepared for the next four years.

AUSTERITY WITH A SIDE OF AMMUNITION

SQUAWk! War drums are thudding again, and it seems the solution to Britain’s woes is less bread and more bombs. The big fish in Westminster have decided that if we can’t fix potholes or fund the NHS, we can at least roll out the red carpet for a bigger military budget. Yes, lads and lasses, the overseas aid budget is being raided to pump the purse strings up to 2.5% of GDP for defence. Because when the going gets tough, the tough… cut foreign aid and buy more tanks?

It’s a classic case of political alchemy— turning humanitarian goodwill into hard power. And the timing is just perfect, what with Donald Trump back in the White House, playing world politics like a dodgy game of Monopoly. The new American policy on Ukraine seems to be: ‘We’ll help, but only if you cough up a few strategic oil fields and maybe a small chunk of land.’ That’s right, folks—extortion is the name of the game, and if you don’t pay up, don’t expect Uncle Sam to come riding in on his bald eagle to save the day.

And so, Britain must step up and prove it’s still a big player on the global stage, or at least not a total pushover. Enter Keir Starmer, a man who moves with the urgency of a seal pup deciding whether to enter cold water. He didn’t want to make this call before a full defence review, but Trump’s latest antics have forced his hand. Now, we’re on a trajectory to become one of NATO’s big spenders, ensuring our invite to the next ‘What Do We Do About Putin?’ summit.

Of course, Starmer wants us to know he’s not happy about nicking money from overseas aid to bolster the war chest. No, no—he’s deeply regretful. But as he eyes up military spending as the new industrial strategy (jobs! Factories! Growth!), one wonders if regret is just another word for ‘campaign strategy’. Labour MPs might grumble, but they’ll fall in line—after all, the Tories would have done the same thing, only with even fewer apologies and a bit more flag-waving.

And let’s not forget the fine print. When defence gets a bigger slice of the pie, something else has to shrink. Education? Welfare? The NHS? All fair game, apparently. Britain is gearing up for an economic future where public services must wait their turn behind the war machine. The question is, does the public have the patience for yet another

round of ‘tighten your belts, Britain’ while the government writes cheques for new aircraft carriers?

The cold truth is that Britain is slipping into a wartime economy without a war. Not officially, at least. But with global tensions on the rise and a new world order taking shape, the days of peacetime spending are over. Blitz spirit, we’re told, will be needed once again. But after years of austerity, COVID, and cost-of-living crunches, there’s not much left in the tank. And let’s be honest—does Starmer really look like the kind of bloke you’d follow into battle? More ‘firm headmaster’ than ‘Churchillian commander’, if you ask me. If history teaches us anything, it’s that when leaders start banging the drum of national security, it usually means they’ve got something else to distract from. And with a UK economy still limping along, a crumbling health system, and public discontent bubbling away like an overfilled kettle, what better way to keep the masses in check than by convincing them to prepare for an impending conflict? It’s the oldest trick in the book—when in doubt, wave the flag and warn of the bogeyman abroad.

Meanwhile, in the real world, working families are struggling to put food on the table while the government scrambles to find billions for the military. We can all agree on national security, but how about securing a nation where people don’t

have to choose between heating and eating? Funny how there’s always money for missiles but never quite enough for meaningful public investment. What happens next? Well, expect more calls for ‘sacrifice’ from the same politicians who never seem to sacrifice much themselves. Expect a media blitz selling us the idea that ‘strength’ means pumping billions into military contracts while local services wither. And expect a lot of chin-stroking about how Britain needs to ‘step up’ as a global force, when

in reality, the public just wants to step out of another economic downturn. So, here we are—fewer handouts, more hardware, and a government preparing for storms ahead. Let’s hope they’ve got a plan for when the people get tired of sacrificing for a war that hasn’t even been declared yet. In the meantime, if you need me, I’ll be down the docks, fortifying my nest against the impending tax hikes.

SQUAWk!

Dogs Trust issues advice for Dog Theft Awareness Day

WITH pet theft reported to be on the increase in the Uk, Dogs Trust, the Uk’s leading dog welfare charity, has issued guidance to owners in a bid to prevent much loved dogs from being separated from their families.

Its Dogs Theft Awareness Day soon, and according to a recent report by Direct Line, 2,290 dogs were stolen across the UK in 2023, a six per cent increase on 2022.

However, despite the very distressing nature of having a dog stolen, pet theft is not a specific crime. Currently, the crime of stealing a dog is treated in the same way as the theft of household items such as phones and bikes, without considering the huge emotional impact losing a pet has on families and individuals.

For many years, Dogs Trust, which has rehoming centres in Cardiff and Bridgend, has called for harsher penalties to deter those who profit from the theft of dogs. Earlier this year, a Private Members Bill, that has cross-party support received its second reading in the Houses of Parliament. If successful, this would see Pet Theft become a specific offence.

To help owners reduce the risk of their dog being stolen, Dogs Trust has issued the following advice:

• Ensure your house and property boundaries are secure – keep your dog in and intruders out.

• Keep an eye on your dog when they are in the garden and never leave them unsupervised.

• Do you post pictures of your dog on social media? If so, regularly review your privacy settings and make sure your address can’t be identified from your posts.

• When exercising your dog, always keep them in sight and pay attention to what they are doing. If exercising your dog off lead, make

sure they have good recall and come back to you when you call them, regardless of where they are.

• Never leave your dog unattended in a public place - even if it’s just for a minute.

• Likewise, never leave your dog alone in a car. As well as the risk of being stolen, they can also easily overheat, even if the weather is cold or mild.

• Make sure your dog is searchable in case the worst should happen. Ensure your dog is wearing a tag with your name, phone number and address on it, and make sure your dog is microchipped. Let your database provider know if any of your contact details change, and keep up-todate, clear photos of your dog, making sure to show any distinctive features.

If the worst does happen and your dog is stolen, you can feel helpless and have no idea where to start looking for them. Dogs Trust suggests the following:

• Report the theft to the police straight away. Make sure you get a crime reference number and insist that your dog is recorded as stolen and not missing.

• Report the theft of your dog to your local authority dog warden.

• Notify your microchip database provider.

• Ask local rescue centres, animal charities and vet practices to keep an eye out for your dog.

• Monitor places thieves may try to sell your dog, like pet websites, pet shops and notice boards. Notify the police immediately if you come across anything.

• Use missing and stolen animal websites such as DogLost which help to reunite missing pets with their owners by offering free advice and support.

Maria Murray, Associate Director Prevention and Community Engagement at Dogs Trust says:

“Having your beloved pet stolen is an extremely stressful, often heart-breaking experience. For many owners, pets are members of the family, and being separated from them, without knowing where they are, is devastating.

“It’s disappointing to hear that pet theft is on the rise, but by following a few simple tips, you can reduce the chances of this despicable crime happening to you. Never leave your dog unattended, especially in a public area, and if you are walking them off lead, always keep them in sight. You should also be careful with what details you share online about your canine companions.

“Not only is it a legal requirement for your dog to be microchipped and to wear an ID tag while out in public, but these two simple steps will also help to get your dog home to you as quickly as possible if the worst does happen.”

For more information, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/dogadvice/life-with-your-dog/ outdoors/dog-theft-advice

Welsh schools ‘facing £500m repairs backlog’

SCHOOLS in Wales face a total maintenance bill of more than £500m, with a £93m backlog of urgent works, a Senedd Member revealed.

Cefin Campbell, Plaid Cymru’s shadow education secretary, raised concerns about the 22 councils in Wales facing an average backlog of £24m each.

He told the Senedd that 355 schools, 24% of all schools in Wales, require urgent maintenance, according to responses to freedom of information requests.

Questioning Lynne Neagle on February 19, Mr Campbell pointed out that in Torfaen – the education secretary’s constituency – 31 out of 32 schools require urgent work.

Mr Campbell said responses to his earlier written questions revealed the Welsh Government “did not believe it had responsibility to collect this data centrally”.

Ms Neagle pointed to

the Welsh Government’s announcement of an extra £35m for school and college repairs, with £20m earmarked for maintenance.

She pledged that funding to undertake repairs would be prioritised, arguing investment in Welsh schools is in “sharp contrast” to that over the border in England.

She told the Senedd: “What Plaid Cymru fails to ever do is recognise that when you call for money for things, you never have to actually identify where that money has to come from.”

“It’s your responsibility,” Mr Campbell heckled.

Ms Neagle continued: “Every week you stand up here and you call for different pots of funding … without any concept of what we’re doing in terms of trying to prioritise the budget.

“I’m proud of our record on school capital … we’re continuing to invest in school buildings.”

Plaid Cymru MS Cefin Campbell

Calling for a national survey of the condition of school buildings, Mr Campbell argued funding allocated so far “won’t touch the sides” of the estimated £500m backlog.

“You don’t even know the extent of the problem because you don’t collect the data,” he said.

The former lecturer added: “Students’ educational attainment is enhanced and improves in schools with better physical learning environments.

“Labour in Wales is clearly failing pupils by not providing them with a safe environment in which to learn. This also has an impact on teachers, a recent survey found that a third of them said that poor buildings and facilities disempowered them professionally.”

Ms Neagle replied: “I find this line of questioning a little puzzling given we are making record amounts of investment in our school buildings. Nearly £2bn since this latest programme started on new buildings and that’s aside from the money we provide for repairs.”

Plaid Cymru MS Cefin Campbell

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Lib Dems lead debate on fairness in agricultural supply chain

CALLS FOR STRONGER REGULATION

WELSH Liberal Democrat Westminster spokesperson

David Chadwick MP has led a debate on fairness in the agricultural supply chain, highlighting concerns over supermarket treatment of farmers and the effectiveness of regulatory bodies.

The discussion focused on allegations of unfair and bullying behavior by supermarkets towards farmers and producers. Chadwick questioned whether the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) and the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP) are adequately resourced to tackle these issues.

The GCA, which polices supermarket dealings with suppliers, operates with just six temporary staff seconded from ministerial departments. Farmers and producers have reported various concerns, including delayed payments, lack of compensation for forecasting errors, order discrepancies, and de-listing without notice.

GAPS IN REGULATION

Chadwick acknowledged the GCA’s role in reducing supermarket mistreatment of farmers over the past decade but

pointed to evidence that progress has stalled. He raised concerns that food processors, packagers, and distributors—key middlemen in the supply chain—are currently not covered by the GCA’s oversight.

He also highlighted the struggles of farmers trying to negotiate price cost increases (PCI) amid rising energy and fertiliser costs, despite supermarkets posting record-breaking profits and using inflation as justification for raising consumer prices.

A survey commissioned by Riverford found that 45% of farms feared closure, with 75% citing supermarket buyer treatment as a major concern. Research by Sustain indicated that only 5% of farmers prefer selling to supermarkets, citing lack of control over pricing and limited direct access to consumers.

FEAR OF RETALIATION

Chadwick also noted that 67% of farmers feared being de-listed if they spoke out against unfair practices, leading to widespread underreporting of issues. He shared the case of a local farmer in his constituency who, after spending years rearing deer for a major supermarket, was left out of pocket when the retailer slashed both the price and the number

of animals it agreed to buy. The farmer, fearing reprisal, declined to be named.

PROPOSED REFORMS

Closing the debate, Chadwick called for several reforms to strengthen the GCA and ensure fairness in the supply chain. His proposals included:

Raising awareness of the GCA among farmers and ensuring confidentiality protections are widely understood.

Reducing the GCA’s reliance on seconded staff by allocating a permanent team.

Granting the GCA the power to launch independent investigations without a referral.

Expanding GCA oversight to include packagers, processors, distributors, and manufacturers.

Lowering the £1 billion annual

turnover threshold for retailers to fall under the GCA’s jurisdiction.

Commenting on the debate, David Chadwick MP said:

“All too often, local farmers find themselves in a David vs Goliathlike battle with supermarkets to secure fair treatment.

“The Groceries Code Adjudicator has made progress over the last decade, but reform is needed to keep pace with changes in food shopping and procurement. Fairness must be at the heart of British supply chains.

“Farmers are under immense pressure right now, with Welsh farming incomes falling significantly in the past year. The Government must act to protect family farms—our food security and rural economy depend on it.”

‘DAVID VS GOLIATH’ BATTLE

Welsh Government approves Bluetongue vaccines for voluntary use

WELSH MINISTERS have approved the licensing of three Bluetongue (BTV-3) vaccines for emergency use across Wales.

The Welsh Government worked closely with farming industry representatives, who requested the licensing of all three vaccines. From 1 March, an online general licence will be available for their use.

The vaccines will be available on prescription from veterinary practices and can be administered by livestock keepers themselves, following appropriate guidance.

The decision follows the continued spread of Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) in England since August 2024. On 4 September 2024, three unauthorised BTV-3 vaccines were approved for emergency use in the UK by the Defra Secretary of State. The vaccines were licensed for use in England last year, and Welsh Ministers’ approval means they can now be used in Wales.

HIGH RISk OF BLUETONGUE

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Dr Richard Irvine, said: “This decision to license these vaccines was informed by our recent risk assessment, which indicates that Wales is now at high

risk of experiencing an incursion of Bluetongue this year. Our primary aim is to keep Bluetongue out of Wales through biosecurity, vigilance, and the safe sourcing of livestock.

“Wales remains free of BTV-3, but it is important to be prepared. Vaccines give Welsh farmers an important tool to reduce any impact of this disease in their herds and flocks.

“I would encourage farmers considering vaccination to consult their veterinary surgeon to discuss whether vaccination is appropriate for their livestock.”

key information for farmers:

• Vaccines must be prescribed by a veterinary surgeon.

• Costs must be covered by livestock owners.

• Spring vaccination is recommended for optimal protection before peak midge activity in summer and autumn.

• Detailed vaccination records must be maintained for five years.

• Individual animal vaccination details must be reported within 48 hours

Farmers angered by PCNP pop-up campsite ban

FARMERS and landowners

in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have expressed their frustration over plans to ban pop-up campsites, warning it could devastate their livelihoods.

In December 2024, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority announced it would remove permitted development rights (PDR), which currently allow landowners to run campsites for 28 days a year without additional planning permissions. The move, enacted under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, aims to protect the character of the area.

However, affected landowners argue the decision will negatively impact their ability to generate income, with some saying it could force them to leave the National Park altogether.

‘DEVASTATING IMPACT’

David Williams, who operates Clifftops Camping at Druidston, said the loss of his campsite’s income could force him to reconsider his way of life.

“I’m a professional photographer focusing on surfing, but there’s not much money in it,” said Mr Williams. “I’m also a computer programmer, but local businesses don’t have big budgets. The campsite provides vital income—losing it would be devastating. I might have to go back to full-time employment or even move. There’s not a lot of work for a programmer in Pembrokeshire.”

Mr Williams, who has lived in

the National Park for 30 years, said the decision was a reaction to the unusually high tourist numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The summers of 2020 and 2021 were exceptionally busy because of travel restrictions,” he said. “But the last two summers have been normal, and Pembrokeshire has been quieter than it’s been in a decade. It feels like an overreaction.”

‘NO

ISSUES, NO COMPLAINTS’

Another campsite operator, who wished to remain anonymous, echoed concerns that the ban would restrict the ability of small farms to diversify.

“I live on a small farm that doesn’t make a lot of money. The 28-day rule allowed us to set up a campsite without taking on too much risk,” they said. “We’ve been busy, which proves there is demand, and we’ve had no issues, no complaints from locals, and no problems with the council.

“I don’t understand what they’re trying to achieve by taking this away. At a time when we’re facing a cost-of-living crisis, they are shutting down a way for people to earn a second income.”

‘DRACONIAN AND OUT OF STEP’

Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, described the move as a “kick in the teeth” for farmers and landowners struggling to make ends meet. Pitchup.com successfully campaigned to extend permitted

Temperatures remain high in the agriculture sector regarding the Uk Government’s changes to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief; with clear concern over the impact these changes could inflict on farms and rural communities across Wales, as well as domestic food production.

development for campsites in England from 28 days to 60 days last year and has since lobbied the Welsh Government for similar changes. Mr Yates argued that expanding PDR could boost the Welsh rural economy by bringing in thousands of extra tourists.

“At a time when governments are recognising the positive impact of pop-up campsites and changing regulations accordingly, this move by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is both draconian and completely out of step,” he said.

“The new PDR regime in England has addressed many of the objections raised by introducing measures such as council notifications and excluding the most sensitive areas like SSSIs. The Welsh Government is now consulting on extending PDR, and if it follows England’s lead, this Article 4 decision would be unnecessary.”

Mr Yates added that with farming becoming increasingly difficult, particularly in Wales, farmers are being encouraged to diversify their income streams.

“Moves like this undermine confidence, take away choice, and leave those struggling to make ends meet feeling angry and alienated,” he said. “This is a devastating blow, and I urge Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority to reverse this decision.”

The ban is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026. A public consultation is open until February 21, allowing people to have their say on the issue.

More information on the consultation can be found here.

Last week, as the independent voice for Welsh family farms, the Farmers’ Union of Wales President, Ian Rickman met with Treasury officials in London to highlight the significant questions and concerns regarding the far-reaching changes to inheritance tax, as well as the emotional toll the changes were having on Welsh farmers.

The meeting followed substantial lobbying by the FUW regarding the changes, including extensive correspondence with the Prime Minister, Treasury Minister James Murray MP and an evidence submission to the Welsh Affairs Committee.

The Prime Minister had previously insisted that the “vast majority” of farmers will not be affected by the changes, with the Treasury previously claiming it expects around 500 estates across the UK to be affected by the changes each year.

Alongside other sector stakeholders and businesses, the FUW has raised significant concerns over the reliability of these figures, with previous analysis by the FUW suggesting as many as 48% of Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) recipients in Wales may be impacted by the new Inheritance Tax proposals.

More recent analysis from the CAAV suggested that 200

Welsh farms will have an Inheritance Tax liability arising from the reduced benefit of APR and BPR each year - equating to over 6,000 affected Welsh farming taxpayers over a generation.

As well as questioning the Treasury’s figures, we also highlighted many of the proposals the FUW has put forward as an alternative to amend the government’s changes to better safeguard family farms and the UK’s own food security.

These proposed changes include the principle that farming / agricultural assets should not be taxed when passed from one generation to another for farming themselves or letting to another farming family. However, if a generation decides to sell those assets, those assets should be taxed at the point of selling. These pragmatic changes would help protect genuine family farms, as well as addressing any loopholes that currently exist within the APR and BPR legislation. Regrettably, it seemed these arguments fell on deaf ears, with a dismissive response to our arguments and willingness to work collaboratively with the UK Government.

As we have seen in Wales over the past twelve months, compromise and collaborative working on contentious issues such as the Sustainable Farming Scheme, can help secure better outcomes. Despite last week’s setback, we remain willing to work with the Treasury to amend this ill-thoughtout policy, and will continue to argue our case in the hope the government will at some point start listening and do the right thing.

Making Mercedes-Benz leaner, faster and stronger

A Mercedes-Benz is a Mercedes-Benz – no matter how it’s powered. This means: Every Mercedes is extraordinary. Its status derives from exceptional design, advanced technology, superb refinement and craftsmanship, a sublime ride and drivetrain, world class safety systems and outstanding digital solutions – be it a batteryelectric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid, or a car with an electrified high-tech combustion engine (ICE). Mercedes-Benz will apply a coherent, status-oriented design across the entire portfolio and customers will primarily decide on a model –and then choose their preferred drive type. The all new CLA, which will be offered as both a BEV and an ICE variant, takes a big step in this direction. And there is more to come.

The concept offers drivetrain flexibility in the form of a pure electric car with benchmark range, consumption and charging performance; in addition to a highly efficient ICE variant using small transverse high-tech electrified engines.

Even though the designs will be almost identical, in the Core and Top-End Vehicles (TEV) segments, the rear-wheel-drive cars will be based on separate, uncompromised BEV/ICE concepts. Cutting-edge BEV and ICE models can exploit their

respective strengths, without sacrificing space, elegance, convenience, or efficiency. Thanks to intelligent modularisation, Mercedes can offer best-in-class roominess and perfect proportions while keeping a tight grip on costs and manufacturing flexibility.

By focusing on the most promising segments, MercedesBenz retains the ambition to defend margins as the BEV share increases. Mercedes-Benz plans to expand and protect the share of Top-End Vehicles (TEV) and aims to leverage the potential of its luxury brands such as G-Class, as the undisputed icon of adventurous luxury; Maybach as the epitome of sophisticated luxury and Mercedes-AMG as the performance luxury brand.

The legendary G-Class family will be expanded with a new smaller version. Mercedes-AMG plans to outgrow the performance

market, thanks to a heavily refreshed model lineup from 2026 onwards and a strategic evolution of its portfolio, which will include a next-generation, hightech electrified V8 and dedicated high-performance electric models based on AMG.EA.

Biggest ever product launch campaign

Beginning with the all-new CLA this year, Mercedes-Benz will start the most intense product launch programme in its history, including the major upgrade of the S-Class in 2026 as well as a string of launches at Mercedes-AMG.

Overall, Mercedes-Benz plans for dozens of new or refreshed models to reach markets until 2027.

The CLA will be offered with an electric drivetrain or a 48volt electrified high-tech fourcylinder engine, paired to an electrified eight-speed dual-clutch

transmission. The electric variant sets new standards in its class in terms of range, consumption and charging power, thanks to knowhow transferred from the VISION EQXX technology programme. The product substance in this class will be elevated, while at the same time, the portfolio complexity of its family will be reduced from seven to four variants.

By launching all-new electric GLC and C-Class models, Mercedes-Benz will close a gap in its electric core segment. An all-new fully electric E-Class will round out the picture.

The pace of BEV adoption will continue to be determined by market conditions, infrastructure and customer needs. Boosted by new BEV model introductions, the Mercedes-Benz Group AG is targeting an xEV share of more than 30% in 2027.

STEEL is back. Isuzu unveils new limited-edition D-Max

Isuzu UK is proud to introduce the new limited-edition Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition, an exclusive model based on the top-tier New Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. Limited to just 250 units, this edition brings a unique blend of rugged durability, premium styling, and off-road capability. Following the immense popularity of the 2024 Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition, this latest version continues the legacy of exclusive, high-specification pickups designed for those who demand the very best. The D-Max STEEL Edition is now available for purchase across the Isuzu dealer network, priced at £42,695 (CVOTR).

Exclusive Design & Premium Features

The Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition commands attention with its striking Steel Grey Mica finish, accentuated by a host of bespoke styling elements. Enhancing its bold presence, the vehicle features dark grey wheel arch fender flares, rear arch extensions, and roof rails, adding a muscular stance that exudes capability. The dark grey Isuzu grille emblem and STEEL-branded side graphics further distinguish this edition, making it a true standout on the road or trail.

Inside, the STEEL Edition offers an elevated level of refinement. The cabin

boasts STEEL-branded embossed headrests, luxury carpet mats, and LED scuff plates, reinforcing its premium appeal. Additional details, including the STEEL-branded illuminated puddle lamps and tailgate badge, highlight the meticulous craftsmanship that has gone into this special edition. The New Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition also benefits from a redesigned interior, featuring a new high-definition infotainment system, an improved driver display, and updated premium materials throughout.

Outstanding Performance & Capability

Built upon the highly capable New Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, the STEEL Edition is powered by Isuzu’s proven 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 164PS and 360Nm of torque. Paired exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it ensures effortless driving in all conditions. The vehicle retains its class-leading 3.5-tonne towing capacity and one-tonne payload, making it a versatile workhorse for professionals and adventurers alike.

The New Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition also introduces Rough Terrain Mode, providing even greater confidence when tackling challenging landscapes. The 4WD Shift-on-the-Fly system and rear differential lock ensure exceptional offroad capability, while 800mm wading

depth makes it ready for the toughest environments. For added convenience, keyless entry, parking sensors, and a reversing camera come as standard.

Uncompromising Safety & Advanced Technology Safety remains paramount in the D-Max STEEL Edition, which benefits from Isuzu’s improved Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS). Now featuring new systems, including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Turn Assist and Attention Assist, and enhanced Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking, the latest iteration of the D-Max offers even greater driver protection. Combined with its five-star Euro NCAP

safety rating, the New Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition provides exceptional peace of mind.

The new model also includes an upgraded 9” high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system, now offering faster connectivity, improved graphics, and an intuitive interface. With DAB radio, wireless Apple CarPlay™, and Android Auto™, drivers can enjoy seamless access to entertainment and navigation features. Driver can also enjoy a new 7” Multi-Information Display with more and clearer information displayed. Multiple USB C ports are now standard across the cabin for front and rear passengers, while an optional wireless charger can elevate convenience to new heights.

Pure West Radio appoints new commercial director

ALISON Lewis-Belton has been appointed as the new Commercial Director of Pure West Radio, bringing extensive experience in tourism, marketing, and business development to the role.

Ali has held key positions, including Director of Helicharter Wales, CEO of Pembrokeshire Tourism, and MD of her consultancy, Outsource Me. Most recently, she served as Head of Marketing and Operations at Celtic Holiday Parks. Her expertise in strategic planning, sales, and revenue generation, along with her strong connections in both local and national business communities, is expected to play a crucial role in the station’s future growth.

Speaking about her appointment, Ali said: “For me, business growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the journey— and there’s no place I’d rather take that journey than here in Pembrokeshire. While I’ve worked extensively across Wales and beyond, this county has

always been my home, my base, and the heart of everything I do. Pembrokeshire is in my DNA. I relish the opportunity to work with the outstanding people at Pure West. It’s a privilege to be part of the next chapter of the station’s growth.”

Toby Ellis, Station Manager at Pure West Radio, said Ali’s appointment marks an important step forward for the station.

He told The Herald: “Ali joining the team is a real game-changer for us. She brings an incredible passion and fresh energy that align perfectly with our ethos. It personally means so much that someone of her calibre believes in our vision and journey. We know she’ll play a key role in driving new opportunities for local businesses and strengthening our connection with the community. With Ali on board, the future of Pure West Radio looks brighter than ever.”

Pure West Radio, Pembrokeshire’s leading digital and community radio station, continues to expand through

DAB broadcasting, live events, and business collaborations. With Ali leading commercial

operations, the station aims to further strengthen its role in the local media landscape.

Decision to grant £6m holiday park expansion may be reviewed

PLANS for a Pembrokeshire holiday park extension, backed by councillors in 2023 despite repeated officer recommendations for refusal, may now have to be revisited after a high court judgement.

In late 2023 councillors approved an 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 an officer recommendation of refusal.

Officer grounds for refusal, based on the Local Development Plan, included the site being outside a settlement area.

Approval was given as it was considered that greater weight should be afforded to economic benefits of the scheme rather than policy.

The application was approved by 37 votes to 16, with two abstentions.

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

The challenge was made against Pembrokeshire County Council as the freeholder of the existing park, which it leased to the applicant in 2007.

Permission to bring the challenge was granted on the basis of “no or no adequate reasons were given by the

council for its decision” and “that the council dealt with the issue of the economic benefits of the proposed development in a way that was unreasonable and unlawful”.

A High Court hearing presided by Judge Jarman KC recently ruled against the council decision, 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.”

Speaking after the hearing, a Pembrokeshire County Council spokesperson said: “A judgment has recently been handed down by the High Court in relation to planning permission reference 20/0462/PA. The judge found against the council on two grounds that related to the material consideration relied upon by councillors to outweigh the identified policy conflict and accordingly the planning permission was quashed.

“Officers are considering the merits of appealing this decision and also the procedure for the redetermination of the planning application if the decision is not appealed.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Pembrokeshire holiday park expansion onto golf course denied

AN APPEAL to overturn a previously-refused scheme to expand a Pembrokeshire caravan park using high quality agricultural land currently used as a golf course has been dismissed.

Last January, in an application refused by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners, Bryn and Phil Rees sought permission for the change of use for 10 additional mobile lodges/ caravans at Tretio Caravan & Camping Park, at the hamlet of Tretio, near St Davids.

The main holiday complex currently contains 30 static holiday caravans and pitches for 10 motorhomes as well as 46 tent pitches.

The application, heard at the January 31 development management committee, was recommended for refusal following a site visit by planners earlier that month.

One of the complications for the applicants was the land was deemed to be “Best and Most Versatile land,” despite being used as a golf course for decades, officers also saying the scheme was likely to have a negative impact on the special qualities of the National Park.

A number of neighbour objections

had been received to the proposal, including a joint response on behalf of a number of residents, raising a variety of issues including impact on the surrounding area, and a historic permission requiring its reversion to agricultural use should the current use of the area cease.

Reasons for refusal included the proposed extension was not considered to be well screened, the additional pitches and track would result in a visual intrusion into the landscape, and increase in car usage, and the change of the Best and Most Versatile (BMV) Agricultural Land to a caravan and camping site.

Applicant Bill Rees, speaking at the meeting, said he was disappointed at the recommendation for refusal, and didn’t consider the visual impact a valid objection.

On the issue of ‘best’ agricultural land he said: “This has been a golf course for over 30 years; practically, on a block of land that small, it would cost a lot of money get back into agriculture.”

Members voted eight in favour and five against following the officer recommendation for refusal.

Planning Policy Wales (PPW) requires that BMV agricultural land

should be conserved as a finite resource for the future with considerable weight given to protecting it from development.

Since that refusal, an appeal was made to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW), which was dismissed by Inspector Zoe Baxter following a site visit.

In terms of visual intrusion, Insp Baxter said that, while the site was used as a pitch and putt golf course, “it retains

an open nature and is assimilated into the landscape,” adding: “The caravan park and the proposed extension would appear larger than the village of Tretio which would fail to preserve the rural character and appearance of the area.”

The report also said the use as a golf course did not preclude it returning to agricultural use, but “the proposed development would result in operational development which would likely render it unsuitable for return to agricultural use.”

Function centre’s retrospective external dining area decision on hold

A CALL for retrospective works at a Milford Haven function centre to be decided by councillors rather than planning officers was narrowly turned down, after the committee’s chair cast a second vote.

In an application before Pembrokeshire County Council, Lee Bridges is seeking permission for retrospective engineering works to provide an external dining area at Masonic Hall, Imperial Function Centre, Hamilton Terrace Address, Milford Haven, works having started in 2021.

The application is due to be decided by planning officers, but, at the request of Councillor Alan Dennison on behalf of Councillor Terry Davies, the local member for Milford Central, a call for it to be decided by councillors was brought before the county council’s planning delegation panel meeting of February 25. It was recommended a decision on the scheme, supported by Milford Haven Town Council, remains delegated to officers; a report for members outlining a list of criteria where it could be decided by committee: the development has an adverse planning impact on more than immediate neighbours or other electoral divisions, the impact within the local community is finely balanced between competing interests or is

Dennison’s submission on behalf of Cllr Davies did not meet any of the criteria.

Philips, who said: “We need all the business we can get; why can’t this be considered? It’s bringing trade in.”

complex and sensitive and would benefit from a public examination of the merits, and issues are raised which highlight conflicting planning policy issues.

A report for members said Cllr

A move for the application to be decided by councillors was made at the meeting by Cllr Phil Kidney, saying “a full airing seems fair,” moving the second criteria as his reason. He was seconded by Cllr Mel

Members voted three in favour of Cllr Kidney’s call, and three against; chair Cllr Guy Woodham casting a second vote in the event of a tie, again voting against the call, meaning it will be decided by officers.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Delays in ambulance response ‘likely led to mother’s death’

A PRE-INQUEST review has heard that a Pembrokeshire mother would likely have survived had ambulance personnel arrived in time.

Charlotte Burston, 40, from Llanteg, fell ill with chest pains on Christmas Day 2023. Her teenage daughter called 999 twice, but an ambulance was delayed by over an hour and a half. With no medical help available, her stepfather, Brian Laye, drove her towards Withybush Hospital.

Tragically, she suffered a heart attack at Robeston Wathen and later died at Morriston Hospital on New Year’s Eve.

The Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST) previously admitted an “error in allocation” regarding the emergency calls. A report presented at today’s hearing concluded that had a paramedic been present, a defibrillator could have been used, and Ms Burston would, on the balance of probabilities, have survived.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

At the hearing on Friday (Feb 21) Pembrokeshire Coroner

HEALTH

SECRETARY

Jeremy Miles is visiting India this week to reaffirm and enhance Wales’ healthcare relationship with the country.

The visit follows last year’s agreement between the Welsh Government and the Government of Kerala, originally aimed at recruiting 250 healthcare professionals from India for NHS Wales. The programme has surpassed expectations, with over 300 Indian doctors and nurses now contributing to healthcare services across Wales.

International recruitment continues to be an integral part of the Welsh Government’s strategy, complementing significant annual investments in training and recruiting NHS staff both locally and from across the UK.

In Kerala, the Health Secretary will meet healthcare workers soon relocating to Wales and visit a government hospital to gain insights into the local healthcare environment and training institutions.

Mr Miles will also formally conclude the ‘Wales in India 2024’ programme in Mumbai, ahead of St David’s Day. The year-long series of cultural, educational, sporting, and economic events have highlighted the strong historical

Mark Layton said: “Had the call been preferentially allocated, this would have led to somebody being sent to the address, and the allocation of such a person, on the balance of probabilities, would have altered the tragic outcome.”

A full inquest, expected to last a day, will take place in late spring or early summer.

Welsh Health Secretary strengthens healthcare ties with India

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

connections and mutual interests shared between Wales and India.

Several meetings focused on healthcare cooperation, trade opportunities, and investment between the two nations will also be held during the visit.

Speaking ahead of his trip, Mr Miles said: “Great and deep-

rooted bonds exist between Wales and India, and I am pleased to be visiting Mumbai and Kerala to reaffirm and strengthen these.

“Across education, arts, sports, business, and healthcare, Wales and India are birthplaces and homes of world-leading creators and innovators. The ‘Wales in India 2024’ programme has celebrated these shared strengths.

“Ethical international recruitment remains a core component of our workforce strategy, ensuring that the NHS in Wales has the skilled professionals it needs. Nurses and doctors from Kerala play an essential role in supporting our NHS, and we are committed to providing them with positive, enriching experiences that promote their professional growth.”

End the ‘undignified and disrespectful’ hospital corridor care

SENEDD Members urged the Welsh Government to put an end to the “undignified and disrespectful” practice of corridor care in Welsh hospitals.

James Evans, the Conservatives’ shadow health secretary, warned corridor care has become the norm and the crisis can no longer be ignored.

He said: “A crisis where patients –mothers, fathers, grandparents – are left waiting in chairs for hours and sometimes days waiting for a bed.

“A crisis where ambulance crews spend hours parked outside hospitals and when they get inside they’re left waiting in corridors.

“A crisis where doctors and nurses, despite their dedication and tireless efforts, are being pushed beyond breaking point, describing their workplaces as war zones with patients placed everywhere. This is a national disgrace.”

Leading a Tory debate on February 19, Mr Evans raised a report by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) which warned corridor care is putting patients at risk in every part of Wales.

He told the Senedd: “If we’re serious about ending corridor care, we must also free up hospital capacity. We must pause the reduction in hospital beds and conduct a national review of NHS capacity.”

Mr Evans, who represents Brecon and Radnorshire, expressed concerns about social care being underfunded, understaffed and unable to take patients ready to leave hospital.

Urging ministers to accept the report’s recommendations, he highlighted the RCN’s calls for more clinical decision makers on weekends, district nurses and community care teams.

He said: “Corridor care should never be allowed to happen and we must never, ever tolerate it. This means making it a never event, something so unacceptable it must never happen.”

His Plaid Cymru counterpart Mabon ap Gwynfor described the RCN report as painting a bleak picture of a health service that puts patients and staff at risk.

“The report reinforces what we have heard,” he said. “With heart-rending examples of patients dying in their chairs

that the Royal College of Emergency Medicine suggests.

strengthening the whole health and care system, not only hospitals.

in a hospital corridor while waiting for treatment.

“It’s a totally undignified and disrespectful way of treating our loved ones, and the [Welsh] Government must ensure that this practice comes to an end.”

Labour’s Carolyn Thomas pointed to the impact of 14 years of austerity, with cuts shared between social care and the health service.

The Conservatives’ Altaf Hussain said a 73-year-old constituent spent Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day being treated in the waiting room at Morriston Hospital.

Conservative MS Altaf Hussain

Dr Hussain, a former surgeon, told the Senedd: “Emergency departments are working far above staffing guidelines

“Staff are completely burnt out; they dread coming into work and many feel extremely anxious before their shifts. Many staff cry regularly on shift…. If nurses are telling us the situation is dire, we should listen and act.”

His Tory colleague Janet-Finch Saunders said more than 6,500 ambulances spent at least an hour outside a Welsh A&E waiting to offload patients in December alone.

She said: “Nursing staff describe patients treated in chairs for over 24 hours – 48 hours I’ve witnessed – forced into hallways or in front of fire exits due to a lack of available beds.

“I know of one constituent only recently, I saw them being treated in a cupboard.”

Health secretary Jeremy Miles stated the Welsh Government will focus on

He said: “I don’t believe that it is acceptable to provide care or treatment in areas that are not clinical settings, or areas that are inappropriate. But this is happening because the health service here and across the UK is under huge pressure.”

Mr Miles added: “Our district and community nursing teams play a vital role in delivering high-quality care closer to home, preventing unnecessary hospital admissions….

“We are committed to expanding and investing in this part of the nursing workforce to meet the needs of our population and to improve outcomes.”

Senedd Members voted 26-24 against the motion. The Welsh Government’s amendment, to note the report rather than commit to its recommendations, was agreed by the same margin.

Plaid Cymru MS Mabon ap Gwynfor

Conservative MS Altaf Hussain

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

cSWelsh Government responds to Grenfell Inquiry report

COLLABORATION WITH Uk NATIONS ON FIRE SAFETY REFORMS

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to improving building safety following the publication of the Uk Government’s response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

Jayne Bryant, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, issued a statement on Wednesday (Feb 26), stressing Wales’ dedication to implementing key reforms identified in the inquiry.

“The Grenfell Tower Inquiry was established to investigate the circumstances of the fire and to prevent such a tragedy from happening again,” she said. “Our thoughts remain with all those affected, including victims, survivors, and their loved ones.”

Although the inquiry’s

recommendations are directed at the UK Government and English bodies such as the London Fire Brigade, Bryant noted that many findings are equally relevant to Wales. She confirmed that the Welsh Government accepts the report’s conclusions and is prepared to work alongside the UK, Scottish, and Northern Irish governments on implementing necessary changes.

STRENGTHENING FIRE SAFETY AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

Following discussions with ministers from the other UK nations, Bryant highlighted Wales’ ongoing efforts to improve safety standards. She pointed to previous collaboration on the Building Safety Act 2022 and announced that the Welsh Government would soon consult on new secondary legislation covering

high-risk buildings and broader changes to Welsh building regulations.

In the immediate aftermath of the Grenfell disaster, the Welsh Fire and Rescue Service inspected all highrise residential buildings for combustible cladding. While issues were not widespread, Wales’ three fire services swiftly adopted the relevant recommendations from the Phase 1 report of the inquiry.

Bryant welcomed the inquiry’s proposal to establish a College of Fire to enhance professional standards, saying: “There have been frequent concerns about competence and conduct across the UK. We look forward to working with our counterparts to ensure its implementation.”

BUILDING SAFETY PROGRAMME AND NEW LEGISLATION

The statement also outlined plans for a Wales Resilience Framework, set to be published in the spring, which will incorporate lessons from the Grenfell Inquiry and other major incidents.

Bryant reaffirmed the Welsh Government’s commitment to its Building Safety programme, which includes the swift remediation of at-risk buildings and broader system reforms.

The upcoming Building Safety (Wales) Bill, due later this year, will introduce measures aligned with the inquiry’s recommendations.

“Our regime will empower residents with enhanced rights, clear routes of redress, and a stronger voice in matters affecting their homes,” Bryant added.

She confirmed that further updates on the programme’s progress would be shared with Members in due course.

Row over £4.7m spend on overseas offices

CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE CLOSURE AS PUBLIC SERVICES STRUGGLE

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has come under heavy criticism for spending nearly £4.7 million in 2024 to maintain 20 overseas offices, with opposition leaders branding the expenditure “wasteful” and calling for the funds to be redirected to frontline services.

Welsh Conservative Leader Darren Millar MS has written to First Minister Eluned Morgan, demanding the closure of the international offices, arguing that foreign relations are not a devolved matter and should be handled by UK embassies instead.

Mr. Millar, who also serves as Leader of the Opposition in the Senedd, slammed the spending, stating:

“It is absolutely ridiculous that Welsh Labour is squandering millions of pounds of our money funding 20 mini-embassies across the world. International relations are not devolved matters, yet the Welsh Government continues to waste millions on maintaining overseas offices that make little difference to most people in Wales.”

The Welsh Government’s overseas offices, located in cities including Beijing, New York, and Dubai, are intended to promote Welsh business interests internationally. However,

critics argue that their effectiveness is questionable, particularly when the UK Government already operates embassies and consulates worldwide.

PUBLIC SERVICES UNDER PRESSURE

Mr. Millar pointed to the crumbling NHS, struggling local councils, and the cost-of-living crisis as areas that should be prioritised instead of what he called “lavish outposts.”

“The Welsh Government must stop squandering taxpayers’ money on these vanity projects and start addressing the real issues at home instead—fixing our NHS, supporting cash-strapped councils, and helping families struggling with living costs.”

In his letter to the First Minister, Mr. Millar urged the Welsh Government to shut down the offices immediately and work with the UK Foreign Office to ensure that Welsh interests are represented through existing British diplomatic channels.

The Welsh Government has previously defended its international offices, arguing that they help attract investment, promote exports, and strengthen Wales’ global profile. However, critics remain unconvinced, particularly as the Senedd does not have devolved control over foreign affairs.

This latest row adds to ongoing

tensions over Labour’s handling of public finances, with opposition parties calling for greater transparency and a

stronger focus on domestic priorities.

The First Minister’s office has been contacted for comment.

Says money is being wasted: Darren Millar MS

885 2nd Ave, New York where the Welsh Government has an office in the USA

was tempting to write about the latest unbelievable comments peddled by Trump about Ukraine, Zelensky and Putin.

However, new Home Office figures reveal that in the year ending September 2024, 269,237 shoplifting cases were closed without a suspect being identified in England and Wales - a shocking 19% increase from the previous year.

This accounted for 55% of all shoplifting cases recorded in the year ending September 2024. On average, 738 shoplifting cases went unsolved every single day last year.

Meanwhile, just 88,165 shoplifting cases last year resulted in a charge or summons - accounting for 18% of all cases.

The Met (London) had the worst outcomes, with 75% of shoplifting cases going unsolved - adding up to a whopping total of 59,133 cases. Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire also fared poorly, with both police forces seeing 66% of shoplifting cases go unsolved.

The overall number of shoplifting cases has risen by a whopping 23% compared to the previous year - up from 402,220 cases in the year ending September 2023, to 492,914 cases in the year ending September 2024. This is the highest figure since current police recording practices began

W ITH ANDREW LyE

for the year ending March 2003.

Figures for the Dyfed Powys Police Force in the same period, showed 2161 cases were reported. Up 12% on the same period in 2023. Only 284 people were charged. A 5% drop on 2023. 1016 cases (47%) were closed, with no suspect identified. A 21% increase.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to finally implement proper community policing, where officers are visible, trusted and focused on solving the crimes that impact local communities like shoplifting.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson Lisa Smart MP said:

“For too long, shopkeepers have been left vulnerable while criminal gangs are allowed to operate with virtual impunity.

“Our high streets and communities deserve better than this. If the Government wants to deliver safer streets, getting a grip on the unsolved shoplifting epidemic must be a priority.

“The Liberal Democrats are urging the Government to keep their promise by restoring proper community policing - with more bobbies on the beat, focused on stopping and solving crime.”

Shoplifting cases are reported locally and I saw 2 examples where shop owners have posted videos of shoplifting suspects, asking viewers to provide names. Another case was a court case. Life is tough for shop owners, especially the small independents. Shoplifting makes it even harder in these tough economic times.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

What the Welsh Budget could deliver

NExT week, Senedd Members will vote on a £21 billion budget that will shape public services in Wales for the year ahead.

Welsh Government ministers are urging cross-party support for the 2025-2026 budget, highlighting its potential to boost jobs, economic growth, and environmental resilience. Cabinet Secretaries for Economy and Climate Change, Rebecca Evans and Huw Irranca-Davies, argue that the budget prioritises investment in businesses, flood defences, and green initiatives.

SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES AND ECONOMIC GROWTH

The budget includes a £335 million package to support businesses, including targeted relief for business rates. For the sixth consecutive year, retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses will receive specific financial assistance to help them recover from the lasting economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, childcare businesses will continue to be exempt from business rates, a move the government says will help parents re-enter the workforce while keeping childcare affordable.

SPEEDING UP INVESTMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

To drive economic growth, the Welsh Government has pledged to accelerate planning decisions,

aiming to reduce delays in major infrastructure projects that could create jobs and support the green economy.

Investment in climate resilience

Following several severe storms in recent months, the government says it remains committed to record levels of investment in flood defences. It has also partnered with the UK Labour Party to allocate millions to the coal tip safety programme, designed to mitigate risks from historic mining activity.

First Minister’s vision

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “During my listening tour, people told me of their concerns about jobs in Wales. We want homegrown talent to stay in Wales and to attract talent from far and wide.

“That’s why this Budget backs jobs and green growth –supporting businesses, speeding up planning, and making it easier for parents to get back to work. At the same time, we are protecting our environment and seizing the opportunities that net-zero presents.

“We’re putting the money into Wales. Will Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Conservatives back jobs and green growth?”

LABOUR MINISTERS CRITICISE CONSERVATIVE RECORD

Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Rebecca Evans, claimed that years of Conservative-led UK government policies had hindered Wales’ economic growth. She said:

“After 14 years of Conservative governments who drove growth into the ground, two Labour Governments working together are determined to kickstart growth across all areas of Wales.

“The Welsh Conservatives take no responsibility and show no interest in helping to clean up the mess their party made. They have already said they won’t vote for more support for businesses.”

Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “This Government is clear – we want to take advantage of the opportunities that the drive towards net-zero presents, with a just transition for jobs that leaves no one behind.

“Whilst Plaid Cymru talks about net-zero, it is this Welsh Labour Government that is putting money on the table to protect the people of Wales from the impact of climate change right now, while delivering opportunities for the future.”

Concerns raised by universities, NHS, and local government

While Welsh Labour has championed the budget as an economic boost, some organisations have expressed concerns over the allocation of funds.

Universities Wales has warned that the budget could be a “backward step” for higher education and local economies. They argue that the financial settlement risks harming universities, which play a crucial role in developing skills and attracting investment.

The Welsh NHS

West Wales MS Sam Kurtz has highlighted the issues facing hospitality businesses

First Minister wants jobs and growth

Confederation acknowledged the additional funding for health services but highlighted that six out of seven health boards have submitted deficit annual plans, reflecting ongoing financial strain. They cautioned that financial uncertainty could impact service delivery.

The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) welcomed an increase in core revenue funding but warned that councils face mounting pressures due to rising demand for social care, education, and housing. While the uplift in funding is appreciated, they say it may not be enough to prevent difficult budget decisions at a local level.

A divisive debate ahead

The budget vote, scheduled for Tuesday, March 5, is expected to be contentious. Labour ministers have positioned the financial plan as critical for jobs and climate resilience, but opposition parties remain sceptical.

Plaid Cymru has previously argued that Welsh Labour’s green investment does not go far enough, while the Welsh Conservatives have criticised the government’s economic policies, arguing they have failed to deliver tangible improvements for businesses and workers.

With spending decisions likely to have long-term implications for Wales, all eyes will be on the Senedd as the debate unfolds.

BLUE VIEW

PAUL DAVIES MS

MORE Council Tax Increases Coming Our Way.

Pembrokeshire

County Council’s move to increase council tax by almost 10% has rightly been met with frustration and anger by local residents across the county. This increase is the latest in a long line of council tax increases in recent years, leaving residents with less disposable income than ever before.

Now, Council leader Cllr Jon Harvey has made it clear that this is the bare minimum council tax increase that the Council could propose without losing vital services.

However, as I always say, politics is a language of priorities and so where there’s a will, there’s a way. Savings could – and should – be found.

There are plenty of pet projects that could be scrapped if the Council wanted to. The proposed Public Transport Interchange is one such example. Replacing a bus stop and car park with a bus stop and car park doesn’t strike me as the best use of public money and I’m sure readers can cite many other examples of where the Council has funded projects with little or no value for money for the taxpayer. The reality is that the Council is too quick to bump up council tax charges when it could be cutting back on wasteful expenditure.

I also believe that council taxes of this magnitude should be put to the people. I’ve long called for referendums to be held on council tax increases of more than 5%. Huge increases in council tax – like the latest one Pembrokeshire County Council is proposing - have a real impact on people’s

household budgets and I believe it’s important that those impacted by tax proposals over 5% are able to make their voices heard. Holding a referendum would make people much more informed about how their council tax is calculated and it would offer them an opportunity to question the fairness of any rises.

Of course, setting the Council’s budget is no easy task and given the increased cost of delivering services in rural areas, it’s vital that the Welsh Government’s local government funding formula is reviewed. The Welsh Government must ensure that funding is fairly distributed across all of the local authorities in Wales so that some councils are not hoarding cash whilst others are over-stretched. The funding formula is outdated and not fitfor-purpose – it needs to be replaced with a sustainable model that promotes fairness across the board and delivers top-rate public services.

The next few weeks at County Hall will be interesting and like everyone else across Pembrokeshire, I’ll be watching to see whether councillors will support the outrageous hike in council tax. There are hopes that the Cabinet’s plan will be rejected and if that’s the case, they’ll have to relook at the situation and come forward with a solution much more palatable to the people the Council is meant to serve.

The First Minister, Eluned Morgan, says she is focussing on jobs

Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Rebecca Evans: Said Tories have left a mess Lecturers

SEND yOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROkESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

& NOTI ce S

LDay aims to encourage children to read for pleasure by celebrating the world of literature and providing a range of free books for young readers of all levels to choose from.

2025 is no different, with 14 new titles lined up ahead of the big day on 6 March, and RNIB Cymru are once again on hand to ensure blind and partially sighted children in Wales can join in the fun by making books available in a range of accessible formats.

THE NEED FOR SELFCRITICISM

DEAR SIR,

In 2019, millions of Uk adults voted Conservative, endorsing Brexit and national sovereignty—prioritising isolation over cooperation with 194 nations. This choice disregarded any hope for lasting peace among the eight billion people on this planet, entrusting the future to self-centred generations devoid of ethical principles.

It is difficult to explain to right-wing minds that their distorted beliefs run contrary to the fundamental design of the universe—both in physics and metaphysics—developed over centuries by great thinkers from Pythagoras to Newton.

Historically, all UK political parties supported the principle that every child, regardless of their parents’ wealth, should receive equal financial support from the state. The vast disparity in ‘need’ was ignored to uphold the principle that all children are of equal worth.

Yet, in a cruel reversal of this principle, Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative government introduced a law denying financial support to third-born children, a measure intended to deter poorer families from having larger families. This policy, presented as wellmeaning advice to adults, in reality, punishes children— denying them the nutrition once deemed essential for all.

Personal political opinions may seem harmless, but it is

an unspeakable moral failing to support legislation designed to deprive children of their basic rights. This is not simply a political debate—it is a fundamental ethical failure. No other species would exhibit the wilful ignorance displayed by Conservatives, just as they did with the defence of slavery, the Nazi Holocaust, and the entrenchment of oligarchic capitalism. All these are in direct opposition to the ethical and rational design of the universe, as described by Newton— based on eternal principles of mathematics, rationality, and human honesty.

It is a crime of capitalism that British teenagers are not given the opportunity to study these universal truths. Newton himself sought a deeper understanding, aligning his findings with the progressive teachings of Christ.

Most British adults, trapped in pragmatism, assume that families with three or more children will simply share what they have. This may be true in many cases, but it does not excuse the abandonment of ethical responsibility. The future of humankind depends on learning from the finest families, but that requires the one thing Conservatives refuse to embrace: self-criticism.

C N Westerman

Whether it’s audio or braille, we’re committed to upholding the values of World Book Day and letting children Read Their Way, no matter their preferred way of enjoying their favourite books.

All of this year’s titles are included, from those aimed at younger readers like ‘The Adventures of Paddington: Farm Escape!’ to young adult fiction thriller ‘This Story is a Lie’ by Benjamin Dean.

There’s also a Welsh language book: ‘Gwyrdd ein Byd’ by Duncan Brown and Helen Flook, which delves into the fascinating world of Welsh wildlife.

I’m so excited for young people with vision impairments and their families to share the joy of reading. They can order their braille and audio books via the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999. Gwyrdd ein Byd is also available from RNIB Cymru in large print.

Emma Jones

Transcription Manager, RNIB Cymru

FEES TO TRAVEL TO SkOMER ISLAND

DEAR SIR,

Skomer Island has to be one of the most magical places in Wales. My family and I have been privileged to visit a number of times and treasure the memories. Unfortunately, memories may be all we will have because I was shocked to visit the website of Pembrokeshire Island Boat Trips recently and discover that the price of visiting the island has skyrocketed to an eye-

watering £44 per person— plus a 6% online booking fee—making a total of £93.28 for a couple. For our family of six, the total cost is now £279.84.

For comparison, Alton Towers spends £10 million-plus to build a single rollercoaster and yet charges £29 for a day ticket. Chester Zoo has 35,000 exotic animals and running costs of £1.6 million a month, yet charges just over £34 for a standard day ticket. The last time we visited the island, we felt the cost was quite high at £10 for the boat ride and around £7 to land on the island. In the last five years, though, the cost has almost tripled. Why is Skomer Island so expensive?

The answer, presumably, is the power of a monopoly. A monopoly typically charges whatever the market can bear. Pembrokeshire Island Boat Trips has, for decades, been the only boat operator allowed to land at the island and now charges £22 for a 15-minute ride to and from the island. An additional operator would surely drive this down to a fair rate via market competition. WTSWW of course has sole custody of the island and can also charge whatever they like. Last time we visited, the two fees were separate and a different amount; now they are combined, and, oddly, it costs exactly the same for the boat trip (£22 + booking fee) as it does to land on the island. A curious coincidence?

Skomer receives around 20,000 visitors in the summer season: 20,000 x £22 (Skomer landing fee) = £440,000. WTSWW’s charity page on the government website reports that in 2024, £445,000 was “kept for future use.” So essentially, 100% of the fees for Skomer are excess to running costs. When Ronald Lockley helped set up the forerunner of WTSWW in 1938, he was not a rich man, but his daughter Ann called their life “rich and happy” in memories and experiences. Pembrokeshire residents also have a rich and happy life in experiences, but they are not generally rich financially. Why are Pembrokeshire residents being priced out of visiting a magnificent jewel just off their own coast?

Dave Horton

PIc TuRe OF THe WeeK!

Skomer ISland puffIn, by dave Horton

Death Notices

GAVIN L EE W INN ROSEMARKE

GAVIN passed away unexpectedly but peacefully, surrounded by his loving family at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff on Tuesday 4th February 2025 aged 46 years.

Beloved husband to Emma, much loved and cherished Daddy to Ella, adored Son of Gordon & Dot Winn, treasured Brother and Brother-in-Law to Lisa & Simon and Marie & Andrew, much loved Uncle to Nia and Cerys and Son-in-law to Melbourne and Diane.

Gavin will be sadly missed by his many Aunties, Uncles, Cousins, extended family and all his friends. A gentleman loved by all who knew him.

The funeral will take place on Monday 10th of March at 11.00 am at St Ismael’s Church, West Street,

Rosemarket, Milford Haven, SA73 1JY followed by interment in Rosemarket Cemetery.

Immediate family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, in lieu for Leukemia Care may be sent c/o Mrs. L. Beckett, 17, Milford Road, Johnston, SA62 3EY.

B RIAN P OLHILL NARBERTH

THE death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Thursday 30th January of Mr. Brian Polhill of Prospect Place, Pembroke Dock. He was 85.

Well remembered as one of the refinery tanker drivers, he will be greatly missed by his partner Beryl, all his family and many friends.

The funeral will take place on Tuesday 4th March with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1.00.pm.

Family flowers only please.

All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

T HELMA L OUVAIN

S HOBBROO k

P RENDERGAST

MRS Thelma Louvain Shobbrook passed away peacefully at Highgrove

Residential Home on Thursday 6th February 2025, aged 100 years.

Thelma was a much-loved wife of the late Ron, devoted mother to Martin and the late Kay Durham. Loving Nan to Andrew, Sharon, Petra and the late Gemma and a much-treasured Great Grandmother and Great Great Grandmother. Sister to Gwyneth, Gwyn, Colin and the late Nora, Billy and Frank. She will be greatly missed by all her loving family and many friends.

She was a lifelong member of Hill Park Baptist Church, Haverfordwest where the funeral service will take place on Monday 3rd March 11am followed by interment at Prendergast Cemetery.

Family flowers only.

Donations in memory of Thelma for the Paul Sartori Foundation can be sent direct to Paul Sartori House, Winch Lane, Haverfordwest, SA61 1RP or online at www.paulsartori.org.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

W INIFRED G RACE (W IN ) H ARRIES

WOLFSCASTLE

WIN passed away peacefully at home on the 27th January aged 97 years.

Much loved, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

A private family funeral will be held to celebrate her life.

Donations, if desired, for the Paul Sartori Foundation can be made directly to the charity.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

E RIC W EBB NARBERTH

PEACEFULLY on Tuesday, 11th February, at Park House Care Home Tenby. Eric of Brynhill Farm, formerly of Cilfoden Farm Narberth. Beloved husband of Bridget. Funeral Service and Interment at Molleston Chapel, on Thursday 6th March at 1.30p.m.

There will be no flowers. Donations towards Clunderwen Young Farmers Club, received by Ken Davies & Sons, Funeral Directors, Clunderwen, SA66 7NQ. Tel: 01437 563319

N ORMA P HILLIPS H AVERFORDWEST

NORMA passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on the 9th February aged 91 years.

Much loved, she will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.

A private family funeral will be held to celebrate her life.

Donations, if desired, for The British Heart Foundation can be made directly to the charity.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

SeRVIceS

CARAVANS

CAR PARTS CARPENTRy

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHy

CLEARANCES ELECTRICAL

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRy

SCRAP METAL

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

STORAGE TANKS

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGy AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VAN CONVERSIONS WINDOWS

SeRVIceS

TAKEAWAYS FROM WALES V IRELAND

For years, the Six Nations encounters between Wales and Ireland have been one-sided affairs, with the Irish asserting dominance. Winning seven of their last eight meetings, including three consecutive victories by over 20 points, Ireland had been the clear superior force. However, today’s contest at the Principality Stadium was different.

A fired-up Welsh side, determined to end a miserable 14-match losing streak following Warren Gatland’s mid-Championship departure, arrived with a point to prove against the topranked team in the competition. And prove it they did, despite ultimately falling short.

A FIERCE FIRST HALF

Ireland struck first, with Jack Conan showcasing his brilliance by finishing off a try one-handed in the seventh minute. Sam Prendergast added the conversion and a penalty, giving the visitors a commanding 10-0 lead early on.

For many Welsh supporters, it felt like a familiar script was unfolding. But this time, Wales fought back. Gareth Anscombe slotted a penalty to chip away at the deficit, before Garry Ringrose’s red card for a dangerous tackle further shifted the momentum in the hosts’ favour. As the clock ticked down to half-time, captain Jac Morgan powered over the line to secure a crucial try, giving Wales an unexpected 13-10 lead at the break.

WALES SHOW SIGNS OF REVIVAL

The second half began in dream fashion for the home side, with Tom Rogers diving over to extend the Welsh lead. The stadium erupted, sensing an upset in the making.

However, as the old saying goes, it’s the hope that kills you.

Despite playing with an intensity and intelligence absent in recent months, Wales ultimately succumbed to a 15th consecutive defeat. Prendergast kept Ireland in the contest with a penalty before Jamie Osborne, making his Six Nations debut, landed a crucial try. The Irish fly-half continued to keep the scoreboard ticking with three further penalties, ensuring Ireland maintained their Grand Slam ambitions while Wales inched closer to an unwanted Wooden Spoon.

SHERRATT’S IMMEDIATE IMPACT

Despite the result, praise must be given to Matt Sherratt, who has made an immediate impression in his short tenure. With only a handful of training sessions, he transformed a struggling Welsh team into a competitive outfit.

Granted, Ireland made several changes to their squad, but this was still a high-quality side that would be expected to beat most Tier One nations. Wales, however, played with renewed purpose. Their attack, previously stagnant under Gatland, finally showed direction and intent.

The nilling against Scotland and a paltry 15 points against Italy were stark contrasts to today’s performance, as they troubled one of the world’s best defences consistently.

Sherratt made subtle but effective tweaks, offering more options for ball carriers while ensuring a smarter kicking game, executed well by Anscombe and Tomos Williams. His selections were also spot on, with a forward pack that put Ireland under immense pressure, particularly in the first half when the Welsh scrum forced multiple penalties.

Adam Jones also deserves significant credit for his work with the forwards, as the set-piece provided Wales with a crucial foothold in the

game.

GATLAND’S OVERLOOkED TRIO SHINE

One of Sherratt’s first decisions was to recall three players Gatland had previously overlooked: Anscombe, Max Llewellyn, and Jarrod Evans. Not only did he bring them into the squad, but he also started the first two, with Evans featuring off the bench.

Fans and pundits had long called for their inclusion, and they justified that faith. Anscombe ran the attack smoothly, combining well with clubmate Williams, while Llewellyn thrived in midfield. Gatland had criticised the centre’s lack of involvement in a previous Test against South Africa, but today he made nine carries and eight passes—more than Ireland’s inside centre Robbie Henshaw and even the combined tally of Bundee Aki and Ringrose.

Gatland’s reluctance to make these obvious selection changes may have contributed to Wales’ struggles, but Sherratt’s bold calls were vindicated.

RINGROSE’S RED CARD – THE RIGHT CALL

Some Irish fans and pundits deemed Ringrose’s red card harsh, but the decision was clear-cut. The centre had an unimpeded view before charging forward with poor technique, leading to head-on-head contact.

This year’s Six Nations introduced the 20-minute red card trial, though referees can still issue full red cards for deliberate and dangerous acts. While Ringrose’s tackle was reckless rather than intentional, he can count himself fortunate that recklessness alone does not warrant a full sendingoff under current regulations.

The red card likely spells the end of Ringrose’s Six Nations campaign and could dent his British and Irish Lions

prospects. A three-game suspension is expected, though completion of ‘tackle school’ may reduce it to two.

SAME IRELAND, DIFFERENT kIT

Despite being pushed harder than expected, Ireland once again demonstrated why they are reigning Six Nations champions. Wearing their controversial white alternate kit, their second-half composure epitomised the mark of a great team.

In the first half, Ireland relied on a kick-heavy approach, which yielded mixed results. But after falling behind at half-time, they adapted, taking every opportunity to punish Wales.

Prendergast put in another commanding display, while Jamison Gibson-Park was once again a standout performer. Osborne seized his rare starting opportunity with both hands, while the Irish pack overcame early scrum struggles to reassert their dominance.

Peter O’Mahony led by example, registering a match-high 19 tackles, while Josh van der Flier put in another typically industrious shift.

A STEP FORWARD FOR WALES?

While another defeat adds to Wales’ woes, this performance suggests their fortunes could soon change. They were sharper, braver, and unrecognisable from the team that has been international rugby’s whipping boys for over a year. If this level of intensity and tactical acumen continues, there may yet be light at the end of the tunnel.

Ireland, on the other hand, remain firmly on course for a historic Six Nations three-peat. Having secured the Triple Crown, their Grand Slam dream remains very much alive.

SPORT

SeNIOR cuP

Hakin United stun Goodwick

HAKIN UNITED defied expectations with a dominant performance, defeating league leaders Goodwick United to book their place in the Senior Cup semi-finals. In front of a large crowd at Phoenix Park, Hakin struck twice in the opening 18 minutes before sealing victory with a late third goal.

Having suffered a 4-1 defeat at the same venue just two weeks earlier, Hakin arrived as underdogs. However, they executed a disciplined and clinical display, shutting down Goodwick’s attacking threats while proving ruthless in front of goal.

EARLy SETBACk FOR GOODWICk

The game started at a high tempo, but it was The Vikings who struck first. After 14 minutes, Ryan Wilson found Liam Parkes in space on the right, and his speculative strike caught out Goodwick goalkeeper Nick Jones, giving the visitors the lead.

Just four minutes later, Hakin doubled their advantage. Jordan Kilby burst through the Goodwick defence, and although his initial shot was blocked by Jones, the

rebound fell kindly for him to slot into an empty net.

GOODWICk STRUGGLE TO RESPOND Goodwick were left frustrated when a strong penalty appeal was waved away in the first half, with referee Sion Jenkins well positioned to dismiss their claims. The home side enjoyed spells of possession but struggled to break down a well-organised Hakin defence, with Ben Aldred, Kieran King, Henry Mayhew, and Jake Merry all standing firm.

Their best opportunity to reduce the deficit came when Rhys Dalling created space in the box and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot, only for Hakin keeper Gareth Fawcett to produce an outstanding reflex save, preserving his side’s two-goal advantage.

HAkIN SEAL THE WIN

Goodwick pushed forward after the break, but Jack Britton and Shane Walsh’s control in midfield stifled their attacking

play. Attempts to find space for Dalling, Will Haworth, and Johnny Horgan were quickly snuffed out, preventing the hosts from building any momentum.

Any hopes of a Goodwick comeback were extinguished in the 73rd minute when Britton found himself with the ball in the box after more good work from Wilson. His left-footed effort lacked power but was well placed, rolling inside the far post to secure a 3-0 victory for Hakin.

As Goodwick committed more players forward in search of a consolation, they left gaps at the back, and Parkes almost added a fourth, only for Jones to make the save.

SEMI-FINAL SHOWDOWN

Hakin United now advance to an allDivision One semi-final against Pennar Robins, set to take place at Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium in March. Manager Scott Davies will be eager to keep his squad focused after this statement victory, while Goodwick must regroup and turn their attention back to their league title pursuit.

Rampant Robins crush Lawrenny

LAWRENNy 0-9 MILFORD UNITED MILFORD UNITED stormed into the Senior Cup semi-finals with a ruthless 9-0 demolition of Lawrenny, delivering a first-half masterclass that put the tie beyond doubt.

The Robins wasted no time in asserting their dominance, racing into a 5-0 lead before the break. Liam Parr opened the scoring inside 15 minutes and quickly doubled his tally. Liam Davies made it three, before Parr completed his hat-trick with Milford’s fourth.

Tommy Powles added a fifth just before halftime, leaving Lawrenny shell-shocked.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Sam Davies extending the lead. Substitute Scott Reid made an immediate impact, netting twice in quick succession, before Joey Jones sealed the rout with a late strike.

It was a near-flawless performance from Milford, who march on with confidence. For Lawrenny, it was a humbling exit, leaving them with plenty to reflect on.

T ALLY CHAMPIONSHIP roared into action this past weekend with the East Riding Stages Rally, held on Sunday, 23 February. The event, set against the backdrop of East Yorkshire’s picturesque yet demanding closed public roads, saw a strong contingent of Welsh drivers making their mark in various categories.

MEIRION EVANS AND DALE FURNISS SHINE IN BRC1

Lampeter’s Meirion Evans, co-driven by Dale Furniss, showcased a commendable performance in the premier BRC1 category. Piloting a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 for the Melvyn Evans Motorsport team, Evans demonstrated consistent pace throughout the event. Despite fierce competition from seasoned drivers, the Welsh duo maintained a strong position, reflecting their synergy and the capabilities of the GR Yaris on tarmac stages.

JAMES WILLIAMS AND ROSS WHITTOCk’S PODIUM FINISH

Newcastle Emlyn’s James Williams, with codriver Ross Whittock, delivered an impressive drive in their Hyundai i20 N Rally2. The pair’s familiarity with the car and each other was evident as they navigated the stages with precision. Their efforts culminated in a well-deserved podium finish, underscoring Williams’ growing reputation in the British rally scene.

MATTHEW HIRST AND DECLAN DEAR’S TRANSITION TO TARMAC

Four-time Welsh Forest Rally Champions, Matthew Hirst and Declan Dear, embarked on a new challenge by transitioning to the BRC1 category in their Skoda Fabia R5. Primarily known for their gravel exploits, the duo faced the tarmac stages with determination. Their adaptability was on display as they steadily improved their times, gaining invaluable experience on the sealed surfaces.

JASON PRITCHARD AND PHIL CLARkE’S RETURN Welsh rally stalwart Jason Pritchard, alongside

long-time co-driver Phil Clarke, made a notable return to the championship in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2. Despite a hiatus from competitive rallying, Pritchard’s skill was evident as he tackled the stages with characteristic flair. The duo’s return adds a wealth of experience to the championship roster.

JUNIOR BRC: kyLE MCBRIDE AND DARRAGH MULLEN LEAD THE CHARGE

In the Junior British Rally Championship, the Welsh-Irish pairing of Kyle McBride and co-driver Darragh Mullen emerged victorious after a tight battle with fellow competitors. Competing in a Peugeot 208 Rally4, McBride overcame early challenges to secure the win, setting a positive tone for their season ahead.

LOOkING AHEAD

The East Riding Stages Rally has set a high benchmark for the season, with Welsh drivers prominently featured across various categories. As the championship progresses, anticipation builds for the upcoming rounds, where these crews will aim to build on their early successes and continue their pursuit of championship glory.

The next round of the championship is scheduled for 12 April at the Carlisle Stages Rally, transitioning the competition from asphalt to gravel surfaces—a terrain where many Welsh drivers have historically excelled.

Brunton treble sparks Pennar’s second-half blitz

PENNAR ROBINS 7 – LETTERSTON 0

PENNAR ROBINS stormed into the semi-finals with an emphatic 7-0 victory over third-division Letterston, fuelled by a stunning second-half goal spree.

Although the first-division outfit dominated throughout, they led by just

one goal at half-time thanks to Cameron Brunton’s composed 16th-minute strike.

Letterston managed to hold firm initially, but their resistance quickly dissolved after the break as Pennar unleashed their attacking prowess.

Jamie Wilkes doubled Pennar’s lead on the hour mark, opening the

floodgates. Brunton swiftly added his second goal just three minutes later, further demoralising the visitors. Sam Southcott netted the fourth to underline Pennar’s control before Brunton completed a well-deserved hat-trick in the 81st minute.

With Letterston visibly fading, Dan

James took full advantage, netting twice in quick succession to seal a comprehensive victory.

Pennar now advance confidently into the semi-finals, while Letterston must reflect on a painful second-half collapse that ended their cup journey abruptly.

Clarbeston Road hold nerve to edge past Tenby in thriller

CLARBESTON ROAD 3 – TENBy 3

(AET, Clarbeston Road win 3-1 on penalties)

CLARBESTON ROAD kept their Senior Cup defence alive after overcoming Tenby in a dramatic penalty shootout following an exhilarating match that ended 3-3 after extra time.

Ben John emerged as the hero for

MID-TABLE TUSSLE SEES

NEyLAND DOMINATE CAMROSE

Camrose 0- Neyland 2

Neyland continued to fight for a place in the upper-half of the table and showed their complete dominance in the game against Camrose.

The first goal was scored by Dylan James at 53 minutes in.

The second half saw Neyland in control of the match, leading in their determination to score and holding the majority of ball time.

Camrose gave away a penalty goal at 65 minutes in, with Jay Johnstone scoring for Neyland.

Despite Neyland’s impressive game, they still sit side by side in the middle of the table with Camrose: 30 points to Neyland, 31 points to Camrose.

the hosts, netting a crucial last-minute equaliser to send the game into extra time, before his team triumphed in the penalty shootout.

Clarby had initially taken control of the match with a two-goal lead. Matthew Davies provided the assist for John to open the scoring just before the interval, and Jake Booth doubled their advantage with a well-struck finish

shortly after.

However, Tenby mounted an impressive comeback. Scott Ferney converted a penalty to narrow the gap before Dan Storer quickly levelled the scores just two minutes later. Momentum swung firmly Tenby’s way when Joe Leahy put the visitors ahead, raising hopes of a dramatic upset.

But with just moments remaining,

John struck again in the 89th minute to rescue Clarby and ensure the match would head into extra time.

Neither side could find a breakthrough in the additional period, forcing penalties to decide the contest. Clarbeston Road showed composure from the spot, sealing a 3-1 shootout victory and leaving Tenby devastated.

Next weekend’s matches are a crucial deciding factor for both teams, as to who will rise to the top.

FISHGUARD kEEP THEIR POSITION AT THE TOP

Solva 1- Fishguard Sports 2

In a precarious match, Solva made the initial headway with Danny Thomas scoring the first goal at the 10 minute mark.

However, Fishguard’s fighting spirit came back when Patrick Hughes scored their first goal at 23 minutes.

In the second half, Fishguard’s impressive game continued as Luke Thomas scored at 68 minutes.

Fishguard Sports have now managed to eclipse Hakin United Reserves on the league table, standing at 42 points compared to Hakin’s 40.

mANDeRWOOD PembROKeSHIRe Le

WELSH STARS SHINE IN

BRC OPENER