The Pembrokeshire Herald 05/06/2026

Cat dies after being shot twice with air gun in Milford Haven RSPCA appeals for information as cats and wildlife targeted in Hakin area

A CAT has died after being shot twice with an air gun in Milford Haven, prompting a fresh appeal from RSPCA Cymru.

The animal welfare charity said concern is growing after a number of cats and a pigeon were shot in the Hakin area in recent weeks.

The latest case involves a cat which was taken to All Pets Vet Care on May 11 after being shot in the left hind leg. A pellet was found embedded in the bone and vets planned to remove it after treating the cat with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.

But the same cat was brought back to the practice in a collapsed state on Tuesday (May 26), unable to use either of its hind legs.

Further X-rays showed a second pellet in the right thigh, which had caused a serious femoral fracture. A healing fracture was also visible in the left tibia. Sadly, the cat died overnight.

‘ReAlly uPSeTTing’

Dr Cethin Ravenhill, from All Pets Vet Care said: “This has been really upsetting to deal with and I am shocked that anyone would shoot an animal with an air gun, as the shot is very unlikely to kill the animal, but just maim and seriously wound them,

leading to a slow and painful death and significant suffering.

“For this cat to have been shot twice is very upsetting. Also, sometime between May 11 and last night, a fracture of his tibia was sustained on the left hind leg, which showed evidence of healing on the X-ray.

“This means this fracture is at least twelve or so days old. The two pellets were visible from the latest X-rays along with a severe, fresh femoral fracture of the right hind leg.

“He was signed over to the practice and received emergency supportive care overnight including antibiotics, but unfortunately passed away in the early hours of the morning, most likely due to sepsis from the femoral fracture caused by the pellet.”

PReviouS ATTACkS

The latest incident follows an appeal last month after a pigeon was found injured on Charles Street by a passer-by.

The bird was examined at All Pets Vet Care after the incident on April 21, and a pellet was found to have shattered

through its wing bones. The pigeon was later put to sleep.

In March, the RSPCA also appealed for information after several cats were shot with an air gun in the area. At least one cat died and three others were injured.

RSPCA Cymru fears other cats and wildlife may also have been targeted and is urging the local community to help by reporting any information.

Inspector Keith Hogben, who is investigating the incidents, said: “The report of another cat being shot — and for a second time — is extremely concerning.

“It is heartbreaking to lose a pet, but it is devastating to find out that an air gun pellet had been the cause.

“There is a growing concern that cats and wildlife are being deliberately targeted and killed in this way — there is no excuse to harm a defenceless animal.”

PoliCe infoRMed

Dyfed-Powys Police have been informed.

Anyone deliberately using an air gun to injure an animal can face up to five years in prison and/or an unlimited fine if convicted under the Animal Welfare Act.

Deliberately injuring or killing wild

birds is also a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Inspector Hogben added: “Anyone with any information is asked to contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018 and refer to incident number 01751732.

“We would also ask parents and carers to speak to and educate young people about this.”

The RSPCA says it receives almost 1,000 calls every year about air gun attacks, with cats and wildlife among the most vulnerable animals because they are often outside with no one to protect them.

Inspector Hogben said: “We want to see a world where every kind of animal is treated with compassion and respect, and deliberate and brutal acts of cruelty should be consigned to the past.

“We continue to call for tighter controls on air weapons. This, along with better education and explanation of the law when buying an air gun, and requirements that everyone must receive basic safety training before being allowed to walk out of the shop, could help relieve the problem.”

Anyone who witnesses animal cruelty or finds an injured animal can report it through the RSPCA website.

Man jailed for illegal Premier League streaming service

A MilfoRd HAven man who supplied illegal Premier league streams and loaded firesticks to almost 2,000 customers has been jailed for more than three years.

Michael David Barrow, 48, of Priory Road, Milford Haven, operated the illegal IPTV service “MB Streams” over a fiveyear period.

He was sentenced to three years and two months at Swansea Crown Court on Monday (Jun 1), after previously admitting three Fraud Act offences.

The court heard that Barrow sold access to Premier League matches and other subscription content through his own-branded service, third-party apps and adapted Amazon Fire TV sticks.

The Premier League said he generated more than £200,000 through the operation. Earlier proceedings at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that the potential loss to broadcasters, including Amazon Prime, BT Sport and Sky, was estimated at around £6m.

lARge CuSToMeR bASe

At the magistrates’ court stage, prosecutor Ari Alibhai KC, appearing on

behalf of the FA Premier League, said the offending took place between October 2019 and February 2024.

He said Barrow’s customer base was not limited to Pembrokeshire but extended across the UK.

The court was told he had around 1,800 users and was paid in cash as well as through PayPal.

Barrow initially promoted the service through Facebook posts. But after receiving a cease-and-desist notice at his home address in 2021, he changed the way he operated in an attempt to avoid detection.

He moved to a referral-only model, restricted sales to people he knew, and encouraged customers to visit his home to pay in cash.

Where online payments were made, customers were instructed to disguise transactions as purchases of retro football kits.

WARning ignoRed

The judge at Swansea Crown Court described the operation as a large-scale, highly sophisticated and prolonged commercial fraud.

The court said Barrow’s failure to comply with the cease-and-desist notice was a significant aggravating factor.

At the earlier magistrates’ court hearing, District Judge Mark Layton declined jurisdiction because of the seriousness of the offences and sent the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentence.

‘SeveRe ConSequenCeS’

The prosecution was brought by the Premier League and supported by FACT and Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit’s Economic Crime Team in southern Wales.

Premier League Director of Legal –Enforcement, Stefan Sergot said: “This sentence once again highlights the severe consequences for individuals involved in supplying illegal streaming services.

“The decision to ignore clear warnings only compounded the seriousness of the offending, and this is reflected in the sentence handed down today.

“Illegal streaming is often linked to wider criminal activity and can expose fans to serious risks, including fraud, malware and identity theft.”

Kieron Sharp, Chairman of FACT, said Barrow had been given a clear warning to stop but chose to continue.

He said: “Illegal streaming is not a victimless crime. It damages the creative industries, undermines legitimate broadcasters, sports rights holders and service providers, and exposes users to serious risks, including fraud, malware and criminal exploitation.”

Emma Brown, Regional Fraud Development Officer for Tarian, said: “It is disappointing that Michael continued to offend despite being issued with a cease and desist notice in 2021.

“He was clearly warned that his activities were illegal and that continuing with them could lead to serious consequences.”

The Premier League said it would continue working with FACT and law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute illegal operators.

Goodwick driver banned after drink-drive stop

A PeMbRokeSHiRe motorist has lost his licence after driving towards a police patrol car in Milford Haven while over the drink-drive limit.

Officers observed the vehicle being driven towards them in Dartmouth Street on the night of May 12.

“It was being driven at speed,”

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

After stopping the vehicle, officers discovered it was being driven by Nathaniel Bird, 26, of Main Street, Goodwick. A roadside breath test proved positive, while subsequent readings given at the police station showed that

Bird had 41mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35mcg.

Bird pleaded guilty to the drink-driving offence and was represented in court by solicitor Alan Lewis.

“He doesn’t accept he was speeding, but was pulled over and was fully cooperative with the officers throughout,” Mr Lewis told the court.

“He had four cans of beer at a friend’s house a few hours earlier and felt absolutely fine. He believed he was under the limit, but even though this was a very low reading, it wasn’t close enough.”

Bird was disqualified from driving for a total of 12 months. He was fined £650 and ordered to pay a £260 surcharge and £85 costs.

National Express use of new Haverfordwest interchange still subject to risk checks

A RuMouR that national express coaches may struggle to use Haverfordwest’s new transport interchange has been denied by Pembrokeshire County Council — although the coach operator has stopped short of confirming it will definitely use the facility when it opens.

The Herald asked the council whether the new interchange, currently under construction in Haverfordwest, had sufficient height clearance for full-size long-distance coaches.

Concerns had been raised locally after published images of the scheme appeared to show a relatively low covered bus area.

Pembrokeshire County Council said the new facility had been designed to accommodate the National Express service operating within the county.

A council spokesperson said: “Pembrokeshire County Council can confirm that the new Haverfordwest Transport Interchange has been designed to accommodate the National Express service operating within Pembrokeshire.

“The facility has been constructed in line with the operational requirements identified for the local National Express route, including appropriate bay design and clearance to enable safe access for those vehicles.

“The new interchange will provide a modern, high-quality transport hub for Pembrokeshire, improving passenger

entry height of 4.280m.

experience and connectivity across the county and beyond.”

The council confirmed that the interchange bus area has a minimum clearance height of 4.1m, with an

However, it also said the bus area had been developed “primarily for local service buses” and that the overall build height limits some access due to planning requirements.

The facility will be signed with an access limit of 4.0m.

Asked whether National Express

services would use the new interchange once operational, the council said operators would have to complete their own risk assessments to ensure both they and PCC were satisfied that services could operate safely within the interchange.

PCC also confirmed that a sweptpath analysis and height assessment had been undertaken.

National Express has also responded to The Herald, but its statement leaves final use of the interchange dependent on risk assessments.

A spokesperson for National Express said: “Subject to satisfactory risk assessments, it would be our intention to use the new Haverfordwest Transport Interchange. We are continuing to engage with relevant stakeholders regarding the operational arrangements.”

The response means that while the council insists the new facility has been designed for the local National Express route, the operator has not yet given an unconditional confirmation that its coaches will use the interchange when it opens.

The new Haverfordwest Transport Interchange is intended to provide a modern hub for bus and coach services in the county town.

Avian flu prevention zone lifted across Wales

biRd keepers in Wales are being urged to remain vigilant after the allWales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was lifted today.

Mandatory biosecurity measures for poultry and other captive birds were introduced in January 2025 to help prevent the spread of avian influenza from wild birds and other sources.

The Welsh Government said the decision to lift the remaining measures

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

follows the latest outbreak assessment, which reduced the risk of bird flu transmission from wild birds to kept birds in Great Britain from “medium” to “low”.

Mandatory housing measures had already been removed in April. The lifting of the Welsh zone has been

coordinated with similar moves in England and Scotland.

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales Richard Irvine said: “I am pleased the latest reduction in avian influenza risk means we are now able to lift the allWales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone.

“This is good news for our bird keepers, and I would like to thank the sector, who have worked hard and shown great vigilance through a

sustained and challenging period.

“I also want to be very clear that low risk does not mean no risk.

“Avian influenza remains a serious disease, and we know that conditions can change. I urge every bird keeper, no matter the size or type of flock, to keep protecting their birds – from bird flu and other diseases.

“Good hygiene practices are your first and most effective line of defence. Vigilance and prompt reporting of any suspicion of disease also remain absolutely vital.”

Bird keepers are being reminded to continue good hygiene and biosecurity practices, including keeping bird areas clean and tidy, controlling access to birds and housing, minimising contact between kept birds and wild birds, regularly disinfecting equipment, clothing and footwear, and reporting signs of disease promptly to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

The Welsh Government said it would continue to monitor the bird flu situation closely. Further guidance, including biosecurity self-assessment checklists for small flocks, commercial poultry keepers and game bird keepers, is available on the Welsh Government website.

Haverfordwest man admits cocaine offence as Crown disputes basis of plea

A HAveRfoRdWeST man has admitted a cocaine offence, but prosecutors are disputing the basis of his plea.

Callum Chadwick, 26, of Barn Street, Haverfordwest, appeared before Swansea Crown Court on Monday (June 1).

The court heard Chadwick admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine between June 27, 2024 and May 9, 2026. Prosecutors also referred to “substantial unexplained credits” moving in and out of his bank account.

Chadwick pleaded guilty, but the Crown has not accepted the basis of his

plea.

He claimed the cocaine was intended solely to feed his own drug habit. However, prosecutors argued the evidence suggested an intention to supply the drug.

During the hearing, the judge said Chadwick “essentially has good character” and granted his legal representatives 14 days to identify and serve relevant material.

Once that material has been reviewed, Chadwick will have the opportunity to decide whether he wishes to change the basis of his plea.

A further court date has yet to be fixed.

Major fire breaks out at Tata Steel site in Port Talbot

TATA STEEL has confirmed that a major fire broke out at its Port Talbot steelworks on Wednesday night, with emergency crews remaining at the scene into Thursday morning.

The company said Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the site at around 8:00pm after a fire broke out at one of the site’s processing lines.

All personnel were accounted for and evacuated safely, Tata Steel said.

The blaze sent thick black smoke across parts of Port Talbot, with residents reporting alarms, sirens and a strong smell of smoke across the area.

Some people said they could smell and taste the smoke as far away as Maesteg.

South Wales Police urged residents living nearby to keep doors and windows closed as a precaution while emergency services dealt with the incident.

Images and video shared online showed flames and a large plume of black smoke rising from the steelworks, with emergency crews working through the night.

Tata Steel said at 8:00am on Thursday (Jun 4) that emergency services remained on site and were working with local teams to fully extinguish the fire.

The company said: “Mid and West Wales Fire Service attended the Port Talbot site last night at around 8pm to deal with a fire at one of the site’s processing lines.

“All personnel were accounted for and evacuated from the area safely.

“At this time, the emergency services

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

remain on site and are working with local teams to completely extinguish the fire.

“The incident is not related to the safe and successful demolition of the empty, redundant Gas Holder earlier yesterday evening.

“We would like to thank local site teams and the emergency services for

their prompt and professional action.

“Further updates will be shared as information becomes available.”

Earlier on Wednesday evening, Tata Steel had carried out the planned demolition of the empty redundant Coke Ovens Gas Holder at the Port Talbot site.

The company said the gas holder had ceased operation following the closure of the site’s heavy-end in September 2024.

That demolition was required to make space for future raw materials handling areas for the new electric arc furnace, which forms part of Tata Steel’s major redevelopment of the Port Talbot works.

Tata Steel has stressed that Wednesday night’s fire was a separate incident and was not connected to the controlled demolition.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed.

Tenby school needs new roof just ten years after opening

fuRTHeR discussion are to take place about where pupils from a Pembrokeshire school will go while its roof is rebuilt after failing when it was less than 10 years old.

Tenby VC School, a 3–11 Englishmedium primary school with an additional Learning Resource Centre (LRC) provision, was built in 2016.

Just a few years after its build, there were reports of water ingress.

In November 2024, a £75,000 feasibility budget to look at ways of tackling roof leaks at Tenby’s VC school, including a complete new roof, was backed by members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet.

The council implemented a series of urgent health and safety measures to mitigate immediate risks, including the installation of 510 ‘acro’ props to support vulnerable roof areas and the full closure of the Early Years/Playgroup wing, along with regular inspections.

At the November 2025 Cabinet meeting, members received a report detailing the findings of the feasibility study, with a favoured option of the replacement of entire roof, backing tenders for the works being sought.

It was warned there would need to be a “a comprehensive decant strategy” for pupils to go elsewhere while the works took place.

formal approval based on market tested packages, validated cost plans, and an assessment of value for money, a report for members said.

across multiple local schools across the wider Tenby cluster; decant to nearby comprehensive Greenhill School which currently has 302 surplus places; establish a modular village at the northern boundary of Greenhill School, a self-contained modular village adjacent to Heywood Lane, comprising nine classrooms and associated facilities for Tenby VC; and a hybrid model combining the modular village and Greenhill accommodation.

Two earlier options of a modular village on alternative council owned land in Tenby and a modular village on the Tenby VC site have been discounted.

At the June 2026 Cabinet meeting, in a report presented by Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education and Regeneration Cllr Paul Miller, members were asked to approve the award of a PreConstruction Services Agreement (PCSA) for Stage 1 of the Tenby VC School Roof Replacement Project following tendering; Morgan Sindall Construction the most successful applicant.

Stage 2 construction contract will only proceed following a separate

Members were also asked to consider which decant strategies are to be considered for detailed feasibility, in order to enable the roof replacement works to take place.

Seven initial options have now been narrowed down to five the report said.

Options include: decanting the whole school to Saundersfoot CP and Stepaside Schools while retaining Tenby VC as a separate entity at a cost of some £0.5m a year; distribute Tenby VC pupils

SUMMER. COOL WARM IN WINTER.

Members agreed to further consideration on the ‘decant’ strategy, subject to a more detailed feasibility exercise, a final decant proposal be brought to Cabinet for consideration, along with the setting aside of up to £75,000 to support the final proposal; Cllr Miller saying there were, in effect, two options for the building: to replace the roof “or don’t, and effectively abandon that site”.

“A roof completely failing on a 10-yearold building is completely bad news, but we have 180 children being educated in a building that is no longer fit for purpose, and we have to get on with it.”

A further report will be brought to Cabinet at the conclusion of Stage 1 to seek approval for entering the Stage 2

Dinosaur Park sold as owners retire after 32 years

Popular Tenby attraction changes hands as Simon and Amanda Meyrick step back

A PoPulAR Pembrokeshire family attraction has been sold, bringing to an end more than three decades of ownership by the family who built it from the ground up.

The Dinosaur Park, near Tenby, has officially changed hands after owners Simon and Amanda Meyrick announced their retirement following 32 years running the business.

Founded in 1994, the park has become one of Pembrokeshire’s bestknown family attractions, welcoming generations of local children and holidaymakers through its gates.

Set in countryside just outside Tenby, the attraction features more than 90 dinosaur models, 36 rides and activities, play areas, a family fun activity house, woodland trails and animatronic exhibits, alongside cafés and takeaway food outlets.

For many families, the park has become a summer tradition, with more than 650 families reportedly holding season tickets and schools regularly visiting for educational trips.

The Meyricks confirmed the sale in a heartfelt message to customers, staff and supporters.

“As many of you will know the Dinosaur Park has been on the market and it has now sold,” they said.

“Time waits for no man or woman and after 32 years of creating and building the park into the business it is today our bones and brains are creaking.

“To all of our lovely customers we thank you for being part of our journey.

“To our season ticket holders, many

pleased the attraction would continue under new ownership.

of whom have become like an extension of our family, to all our staff over the years and our suppliers, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

“It’s been a blast and we hope the park has given you all some treasured memories too.”

The couple added that they were

“We wish the new owners all the very best of luck and are excited to know the park will be in safe hands for the future,” they said.

The sale comes after a strong period of national recognition for the attraction.

Last year, The Dinosaur Park was ranked sixth in a UK-wide study of the best value-for-money theme parks by

entertainment site Sudoku Bliss. It was also named among the bestvalue theme parks in Britain and later recognised by Tripadvisor as being in the top 10 per cent of attractions worldwide.

While the identity of the new owners has not yet been publicly announced, the news marks the end of an era for one of Pembrokeshire’s most recognisable visitor attractions.

Pure West Radio named headline sponsor of 2026 Croeso Awards

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been announced as the headline sponsor of the 2026 visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards.

Visit Pembrokeshire said the partnership would help celebrate and champion the county’s tourism and hospitality sector, recognising the businesses, individuals and organisations delivering outstanding visitor experiences.

The awards will take place at the Atrium at Pembrokeshire College on October 29, 2026.

Pure West Radio has also become a new Visit Pembrokeshire Strategic Partner, supporting work to showcase the county’s visitor economy and promote Pembrokeshire as a leading destination.

The Croeso Awards celebrate excellence across the tourism industry, with 17 categories covering accommodation, attractions, food and drink, sustainability, customer service and more.

Organisers said the awards also invest in the future of the sector through a mentoring programme delivered with industry leaders and Pembrokeshire College students.

Winners will be selected by independent tourism and hospitality experts from outside Pembrokeshire.

Emma Thornton, CEO of Visit Pembrokeshire, said: “We are delighted to welcome Pure West Radio as the headline sponsor of the 2026 Croeso Awards and as a new Strategic Partner for Visit Pembrokeshire.

“Pure West Radio shares our passion for Pembrokeshire and our commitment to supporting local businesses and communities. Their strong local reach, community focus and enthusiasm for celebrating success make them a natural partner for the Croeso Awards and for Visit Pembrokeshire more broadly.”

Toby Ellis, Station Manager at Pure West Radio, said: “We are incredibly

proud to become the headline sponsor of the 2026 Croeso Awards and to join Visit Pembrokeshire as a Strategic Partner.

“At Pure West Radio, we are passionate about celebrating the people, businesses and organisations that make Pembrokeshire such a fantastic place to live, work and visit.

“The tourism and hospitality sector plays a vital role in our local economy, and the Croeso Awards provide an important opportunity to recognise the dedication, innovation and excellence that can be found across the county.

“We look forward to working closely with Visit Pembrokeshire to champion local success stories, support the industry throughout the year and help showcase Pembrokeshire as one of the UK’s leading visitor destinations.”

Visit Pembrokeshire said the two organisations would work together on campaigns throughout the year, amplifying key messages and supporting businesses across the tourism and hospitality industry.

Visit Pembrokeshire is the official Destination Management Organisation for Pembrokeshire.

Crash survivor who needed 100 blood transfusions urges others to donate

A WelSH crash survivor who needed 100 units of blood after a near-fatal road accident is urging people across Wales to donate during national blood donor Week.

Richard Jones, from Neath, lost a significant amount of blood after his truck hit a barrier and overturned in Carmarthenshire in 2020.

A passer-by, who was a former Army medic, used makeshift tourniquets to stem the bleeding, while other members of the public helped keep Richard conscious until the Wales Air Ambulance arrived.

Medics gave him six units of blood at the roadside before he was taken to Morriston Hospital in Swansea.

Richard spent ten days in a coma and suffered devastating injuries, including a shattered hip, multiple fractures, a torn posterior cruciate ligament and severe trauma to both legs.

His right leg was later amputated above the knee because of a severed artery. Over the following weeks, he underwent nine major operations and needed a further 94 units of blood.

Now, during National Blood Donor Week, which runs from Monday, June 8, to Sunday, June 14, Richard is thanking the strangers whose donations helped save his life.

Richard said: “At the time, I had no idea how many people it would take to save my life.

“Looking back now, it’s overwhelming to think how many strangers stepped forward to help me.

“I would just like to say a huge thank you to anyone who donates blood. Without you, I wouldn’t be here.

“You never know whose life you’re going to save or change.”

During his recovery, Richard met his partner, Michaela. The couple are now proud parents to their young son, Dougie.

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Since the crash, Richard has adapted to life with a prosthetic limb and continues to share his story in the hope of encouraging others to give blood.

Alan Prosser, Director of the Welsh Blood Service, said: “We always say one donation can save three lives, but in Richard’s case, it took a community of lifesavers.

“One hundred units is a staggering amount of blood for one person to receive. It is only possible because people generously give up an hour of

their time to help people in need.

“National Blood Donor Week is the highlight of our annual calendar. However, the summer months can be especially challenging, with hot weather and more donors travelling abroad affecting donation levels.

“If you can do it, try giving blood this summer and help people in their time of need, just like our donors helped Richard.”

As part of this year’s campaign, the Welsh Blood Service is bringing back its Missing Type campaign.

First launched in Wales in 2016, the campaign saw brands, businesses, organisations and members of the public remove the letters A, B and O

from names and logos to highlight the importance of blood groups.

Mr Prosser added: “The original campaign inspired people across Wales to remove the letters O, A and B from social media names and business logos, encouraging people to imagine a world without these critical blood types.

“The difference it made then, and the conversations it started, are exactly why it is returning now.”

The Missing Type campaign will run throughout June, with National Blood Donor Week at its centre.

To find out more or book a blood donation, visit www.wbs.wales/ NBDW26

Milford Haven man bit neighbour’s neck near cashpoint

A CouRT has heard how a man was bitten in the neck by a neighbour as he attempted to withdraw cash from a local cashpoint.

Adam Gilbert-Morris was withdrawing cash from a shop near the Mount Estate, Milford Haven, at approximately 9:00pm on May 5. There he observed 34-year-old Jake Cane walk into the store.

“Mr Gilbert-Morris recognised him, and as Jake Cane walked past, he shoulder-barged Mr Gilbert-Morris and began verbally assaulting him,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Cane then told Mr Gilbert-Morris to “get out of his face”.

“His breath was stinking,” Mr GilbertMorris told the court in a victim impact statement. “He then bit me on the righthand side of my neck.”

The Crown stated that while the bite failed to break the victim’s skin, the action caused the victim an understandably high level of anxiety.

“Jake Cane also called the victim a grass,” concluded Sian Vaughan.

Cane, 34, of Cherry Tree Close, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to common assault. Given the seriousness of the charge, District Judge Mark Layton requested an all-options probation report prior to sentencing.

In her report, probation officer Julie Norman informed the court that Cane had

been residing at the Mount Estate, Milford Haven, for approximately two years prior to the offence.

“There are various problems here with anti-social behaviour, and on May 12 there had been a verbal argument between him and the victim,” she said. “The defendant then assaulted Mr Gilbert-Morris, but it was all part of a build-up.”

Julie Norman concluded by saying that Cane is currently planning to move away from the Mount Estate.

After considering the evidence, Judge Layton sentenced Cane to eight weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. During this time he must carry out 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

He was ordered to pay £100

compensation to Adam Gilbert-Morris, in addition to a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

A two-year restraining order was imposed preventing Cane from having any direct or indirect contact with Adam Gilbert-Morris, entering his address, or entering anything in relation to the victim on social media.

Commissioner urges new Welsh Government to act on corridor care and pensioner poverty

oldeR people in Wales must not be left behind by the new Welsh government, the older People’s Commissioner has warned.

Rhian Bowen-Davies has written to First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth calling for urgent action to protect the rights, safety and well-being of older people across Wales.The Commissioner said the new Government must use the momentum of the recent election to deliver practical change, particularly in health care, cost-of-living support, digital access and employment.

One of her key demands is an action plan to end so-called “corridor care”, where patients are treated in non-clinical areas because of pressure on hospitals.

The Commissioner said older people are disproportionately affected because they are the main users of hospital services, and warned that corridor care raises serious concerns around dignity, safety and patient rights.

She is also calling for more support for older people struggling financially, with living costs expected to rise sharply in the months ahead as a result of the conflict in the Middle East.

Ms Bowen-Davies wants the Welsh Government to establish a new Resilience Fund for older people who are in financial difficulty but do not qualify for other help, such as Pension Credit.

She has also urged ministers to do more to identify older people who are missing out on financial support they are entitled to.

It is estimated that more than £100m in support went unclaimed in Wales last year, remaining with the Treasury instead of reaching older people’s pockets.

Digital exclusion is another major concern raised in the letter. The Commissioner said public bodies must ensure services remain accessible and inclusive as more information and support moves online.

She is calling on the Welsh Government to examine whether public organisations have the guidance they need to design digital services that do not shut older people out.

The letter also highlights the contribution older people make to Wales through work, volunteering and unpaid care, which is worth billions of pounds each year.

The Commissioner said better support for older workers to remain in work, or return to employment, could

boost the Welsh economy by around £1bn a year.

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said: “It’s vital we capitalise on the energy and momentum that’s been generated by a historic election and the formation of a new Government to deliver meaningful, positive change for older people.

“Growing older in Wales is a positive experience for many people and we have strong foundations from

which to build progress and change, not least the invaluable strength, resilience and support within our communities.

“But there is still much to do to ensure older people can access the services and support they need to live and age well, and that their rights are protected and upheld.

“And while much of the change required to enable this will need to be delivered over the longer-term, it is my view that action must be prioritised in

a number of key areas.

“That’s why I’m calling on the First Minister to take urgent action to end the corridor care crisis, ensure older people can access cost-of-living support if they need it and to prevent exclusion in an increasingly digital world.

“I have requested a meeting with him to discuss these issues and how to resolve them in more detail, and look forward to receiving a response from him soon.”

Hydroelectric scheme for County Hall to be reviewed

A CAll for a hydroelectric scheme to help power Pembrokeshire’s County Hall is to be considered as part of a wider decarbonisation report expected later this year.

At the June meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members considered a notice of motion from Merlins Bridge councillor John Cole, who said two potential sources of clean energy were close to County Hall.

Cllr Cole said: “Two untapped power sources, that would create 100 per cent clean energy are within very close proximity of County Hall.

“Both sources would substantially compensate County Hall’s current use of power supplied via the grid. These sources are the western Cleddau and Cartlett Brook. The first running alongside, and the other under County Hall.

“My Notice of Motion is that the council look at the feasibility of the installation of hydroelectric turbines at these sources.”

He said the proposal would support the council’s net zero policy by offsetting CO2 production and reducing County Hall’s running costs.

In a supporting statement, Cllr Cole said the scheme could provide “a major green energy project” while also protecting taxpayers from reliance on energy supplied by thirdparty providers.

A report to Cabinet said County

Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Hall used 167,000 kWh of electricity in the 2025-26 financial year. The site already has a 77kWp solar canopy

in the car park, generating around 65,000 kWh a year, with more than 90 per cent of that power used on site. The solar canopy is estimated to save around £13,000 a year.

The report said hydropower

schemes had been considered previously, with members referring to a similar call from former councillor Ken Rowlands around two decades ago.

A 2010 study by Mann Power Consulting Ltd looked at hydropower systems that could be used at the County Hall site. It concluded that a 55kW Archimedes screw system would be the most appropriate option and could generate around 198,000 kWh, based on a 43 per cent capacity factor, at an indicative 2010 cost of around £450,000.

The report also referred to the council’s 2019 climate emergency declaration, when members voted to create an action plan to move Pembrokeshire County Council towards becoming a net zero-carbon local authority by 2030.

Cabinet members were told that a review and report on decarbonisation steps, including hydropower feasibility, is expected by the end of the year.

Members agreed to note the motion and await the wider report.

The Cabinet report stated: “Once a more detailed analysis of the Laser report has taken place a more informed, prioritised list of proposed decarbonisation measures will be presented.

“As part of that process a further review will be considered into the benefits of adopting hydroelectric turbines at the site.”

Castlemorris man spared jail after knife confrontation

A CASTleMoRRiS man has avoided immediate custody after threatening enforcement officers with a knife during an early-morning visit over unpaid council tax.

Simon Coll, 59, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court after admitting affray and two charges of criminal damage following the incident on February 26 last year.

The court heard that three enforcement officers had gone to Coll’s home at around 6:30am to execute a liability order. They clamped his van before approaching the property, but were confronted by Coll, who came to the door armed with a large knife.

Officers forced to retreat

Prosecutor Brian Simpson said Coll shouted “Do you want some?” before swinging the blade towards one of the officers.

A second officer was then approached by Coll, causing all three men to retreat to their vehicles.

The court was told one of the officers had previously attempted to recover the debt, but had been chased away after Coll became aggressive.

After the officers returned to their vans, Coll threw what was believed to be a rock or log at one of the vehicles, cracking the windscreen. He also kicked the rear of another van.

Police were called and Dyfed-Powys Police officers arrived at the address within an hour.

Coll later told police he had woken to find three men near his home and claimed he had not realised they were enforcement officers until after they had left and he discovered the clamp on his van.Damage to vehicles

The court heard the windscreen damage cost £372, while damage to the wheel clamp was valued at £15.

The enforcement officers were said to have been left badly shaken by the incident.

Defending, Andrew Evans said Coll accepted that his behaviour had been unlawful.

Recorder Mark Powell KC told Coll: “Your behaviour that day was disgraceful.

“These are men going about their public duty.

“You behaved in a very aggressive way towards them.

“One of them had a close shave with the large knife you were carrying.” Coll was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years. He must also pay £290 compensation and complete 10 rehabilitation activity requirement

Pensioner jailed for child sex offences dies in hospital

A llAnelli pensioner jailed for child sex offences has died in hospital weeks after being sentenced.

Nicholas Page, 75, of Ropewalk Road, Llanelli, died on May 7 after being transferred from HMP Parc in Bridgend to an outside hospital.

He had been sentenced to three years in prison at Swansea Crown Court in

April after pleading guilty to attempting to possess indecent images of children and arranging a child sexual offence.

The court heard Page’s offending came to light after concerns were raised by a Carmarthenshire County Council care

“The clear inference is he was paying for the provision of children to be brought to his property.”

Sentencing, Judge Paul Thomas KC said the messages made clear that the purpose of the payments was to facilitate abuse, although he acknowledged the possibility that Page may have been “conned” by the person he was communicating with.

Page had originally been due to be sentenced in May last year but repeatedly failed to attend court, citing medical reasons without producing documentary evidence.

He was later arrested on a warrant and remanded into custody. The court was told he had remained “uncooperative” with efforts to obtain medical reports.

Defence barrister Ryan Bowen said Page was “a product of his childhood experiences”, having been placed into care at a young age and having suffered abuse during his childhood.

Page had no previous convictions.

worker who regularly attended his home. Police later executed a search warrant at Page’s address and seized his mobile phone. The court was told messages on the device showed Page had been attempting to obtain indecent images of children and arrange access to children for sexual purposes.

Prosecutor Craig Jones told the court:

Finding there was no realistic prospect of rehabilitation, Judge Thomas imposed a three-year prison sentence.

A spokesperson for G4S, which operates HMP Parc, said: “Mr Nicholas Page passed away at an outside hospital on May 7. As with all deaths in custody, this will be investigated by the prisons ombudsman. The cause of death will be for the coroner to determine.”

Monkton man fined after missing drugs assessment

A MonkTon man has been sentenced for failing to attend an initial drugs assessment after a previous sample showed he had cocaine in his system.

Luke Probert, 37, of Long Meadow, Adams Road, Monkton, was requested to attend the assessment on February 19 to establish whether he was dependent on the Class A drug.

But his failure to show up resulted in

his appearance before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he pleaded guilty to the offence.

He was represented in court by solicitor Alaw Harries, who said the defendant “didn’t appreciate this was a criminal offence”.

“He’s extremely apologetic,” she said. Probert was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £32 surcharge.

New health minister unveils plan to cut NHS waiting times in Wales

uP To ten new surgical and diagnostic hubs are to be developed across Wales as part of new plans to cut nHS waiting times and ease pressure on hospitals.

Wales’ new Health Minister, Mabon ap Gwynfor, has set out a programme aimed at reducing delays, recruiting more GPs, expanding community care and moving more treatment out of hospitals.

The Welsh Government says the new hubs will be developed over the next four years to increase NHS capacity and speed up diagnosis and treatment.

Two-year waits are due to be eliminated within months, with the overall backlog reduced to prepandemic levels before the end of the current Senedd term.

The plans also include recruiting up to 100 new salaried GPs and expanding access to out-of-hours primary care, in an effort to reduce pressure on hospital services.

Community care is also set to be expanded, with stronger discharge planning intended to help patients leave hospital sooner and receive more support at home.

A ten-year Digital and Data Strategy will be introduced to modernise NHS infrastructure, while a long-term workforce strategy is expected to be published this autumn.

The Welsh Government also

following concerns over a shortage of available posts.

said organisations would be brought together for a summit to consider support for this year’s nursing, midwifery and paramedic graduates,

Mr ap Gwynfor said: “Having to wait years for treatment, with all the pain and anxiety that entails, is an intolerable reality for far too many people in Wales.

“With urgency, decisive action and ambition, we will protect the NHS and build a healthier, fairer Wales — with a health and care system that puts people first and delivers the change our nation needs.”

Blood Bikes Wales volunteer finds new purpose after lifeboat career ends

continue going to sea has found a new sense of purpose with blood

bikes Wales.

Clive had spent decades serving his community, including almost 20 years as a First Responder with the Welsh Ambulance Service and 38 years with the lifeboat. He eventually became coxswain, but at the age of 65 was told he could no longer continue in the role.

Despite being fit and healthy, holding a Class 1 driving licence and a Private Pilot’s Licence, stepping away from something that had been such a major part of his life proved difficult. He said the loss of involvement, purpose and identity hit hard.

Determined to find a new volunteering challenge, Clive contacted Blood Bikes Wales. As an advanced driver, he hoped to take on a car-based role, but discovered the charity operated motorcycles. At that point, he did not even have a motorcycle licence.

Rather than give up, Clive decided to learn to ride, pass his motorcycle

test and work towards the advanced qualification needed to apply as a Blood Bikes Wales rider.

“It was the best decision I ever made,” he said. “The challenge and freedom that motorcycling gave me was a real tonic.”

With determination and support from mentors, Clive achieved his RoSPA Gold qualification and passed the assessments to become a Blood Bikes Wales rider.

Now, just over 18 months into his Blood Bikes Wales journey and approaching his 70th birthday, he says the charity has given him back something he feared he had lost.

He said: “I am truly grateful that I committed to the challenge and extremely thankful to Blood Bikes Wales for giving me back the direction, involvement and identity I had lost a few years earlier.

“Blood Bikes Wales is a truly inspirational and inclusive charity, made even more remarkable by the fact that every member is a volunteer. I feel proud to wear my rider’s jacket and represent the charity.”

Plaid accused of ‘hypocrisy’ over asylum legal advice funding

ConSeRvATive MS Andrew

RT davies has accused the Welsh government of “hypocrisy” after it confirmed it funds third sector organisations to provide legal advice to asylum seekers.

The row follows a written question tabled by Mr Davies, who asked why the Welsh Government was funding organisations to provide immigration legal advice.

Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams said asylum and immigration law, including access to legal advice, was reserved to the UK Government.

However, she added that, due to a shortage of immigration legal advisers and legal aid providers in Wales, the Welsh Government provides funding “to develop and improve the resilience of the legal sector in Wales”.

Mr Davies, Conservative MS for South Wales Central, said ministers had “no business” funding work in an area

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outside the Senedd’s remit.

He claimed the spending was particularly questionable at a time when the Welsh NHS remains under pressure.

Mr Davies said: “Plaid Cymru separatists are taking money from our NHS to fund legal advice for asylum seekers.

“Just this week, Rhun ap Iorwerth dodged tricky questions on nuclear power by claiming the matter was not devolved – yet he’s happy to act outside his remit to give asylum seekers special privileges.

“This shocking hypocrisy shows where Plaid Cymru separatists’ priorities really lie.”

The Welsh Government has said the funding is intended to address a shortage of immigration legal advisers in Wales.

Digital makeover aims to help Welsh town centres compete for customers

A neW digital programme is helping Welsh town centres improve their online visibility and compete for customers in an increasingly digital marketplace.

SMART Busnes, delivered by Newcastle Emlyn-based Antur Cymru, has created Digital Place Plans for six towns it supports in Ceredigion, including Lampeter.

The plans provide each town with a detailed assessment of how it performs online, looking at promotion, coordination, marketing, social media presence, search data, footfall analytics and wider digital behaviour.

The programme has been described as a “health check for the high street”, identifying where towns may be losing customers and what practical steps can be taken to improve.

Bronwen Raine, Managing Director of Antur Cymru, said the plans were designed to turn strategy into practical action.

She said: “Digital Place Plans help bridge the gap between strategy and delivery.

“By taking a whole-place view, they support towns to make better use of existing assets, work more collaboratively, and build the confidence needed to make informed, long-term decisions that benefit local communities.”

WHole-ToWn APPRoACH

Rather than focusing only on individual shops, each Digital Place Plan looks at the town as a whole.

The plans consider how visitors find and move through a place, whether

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Sinclair editor@herald.email

local organisations are working together effectively, and where digital infrastructure or promotion could be strengthened.

The aim is to show how small, coordinated improvements can create a bigger long-term impact than any one business could achieve alone.

The latest plan focuses on Lampeter and was developed by Digital Place Lead Clive Davies before being presented to Caru Llambed, the town’s regeneration partnership.

Elen Page, of Caru Llambed, said the session had already inspired action, including work on a funding bid for a new skatepark.

She said: “Thank you Clive. Have

just drafted the Expression of Interest for our skatepark — so inspired. Data next thing!”

Kevin Harrington, Programme Manager for SMART Busnes, said the plans helped communities understand both their strengths and areas for improvement.

He said: “By creating a shared evidence base, they show what is already in place, where the gaps are, and how digital can support local priorities in a practical and realistic way.”

SuPPoRT foR RuRAl buSineSSeS

The Digital Place Plans form part of the wider SMART Busnes Shared Prosperity Fund programme and sit

alongside other digital support being rolled out across Ceredigion.

Last December, the programme became one of the first in Wales to launch a practical toolkit for Answer Engine Optimisation, helping small businesses improve how they appear in AI-generated answers on platforms such as ChatGPT and Google’s AI search.

Organisers say the approach could help rural Welsh SMEs compete more effectively, giving micro-businesses in towns such as Lampeter access to digital strategies more often used by larger brands.

SMART Busnes is delivered by Antur Cymru Enterprises with support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Transition Fund through Ceredigion County Council.

Duck race draws crowds to Cresswell Quay

An AnnuAl Rotary duck race and pig roast brought crowds to Cresswell quay on friday (May 29), with organisers hailing the evening a success.

The event, organised by Narberth and Whitland Rotary, saw yellow ducks released onto the water as spectators gathered along the quay to watch the race unfold.

PeRfeCT CondiTionS

ORGANISERS said the tide and weather “could not have been better” for the popular community event.

Families enjoyed a relaxed evening of entertainment, food and fundraising, with Bat-A-Rat proving popular with youngsters while adults enjoyed a pig roast, with pork provided by Tom at Andrew Rees Butchers.

Live music from Jack Castle added to the atmosphere as people gathered at the riverside venue.

THAnkS To SuPPoRTeRS

JOHN Sleigh, of Narberth and Whitland Rotary, thanked everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a success.

He said: “What a fantastic evening. The tide and weather could not have been better for the annual Rotary Duck Race and Pig Roast at Cresswell Quay. “We thank you all for being there and making the event such a success.”

MPs to question Wales’ police commissioners over future of policing

WAleS’ four Police and Crime Commissioners are to be questioned by MPs over the future of policing and proposed uk government reforms.

The Welsh Affairs Committee will hold a session on 8 July to examine what planned changes in the Police Reform Bill could mean for Wales.

A White Paper published in January

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set out plans to abolish Police and Crime Commissioners, the elected officials responsible for overseeing police budgets and setting the overall strategy for individual forces in England and

Wales.

In England, those responsibilities are expected to pass to elected regional mayors or council leaders. However, it remains unclear who would take on those functions in Wales.

The White Paper also raised the prospect of merging some of the 43 territorial police forces across England and Wales, but there is no firm detail yet on whether Wales’ four forces could be affected.

The session will allow MPs to question the PCCs from Dyfed-Powys Police, South Wales Police, North Wales Police and Gwent Police about the likely impact of the proposed reforms.

Committee members are also expected to discuss wider policing issues affecting Wales, including violence against women and girls, the use of facial recognition technology, and whether policing should be devolved to the Welsh Government.

Ruth Jones MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, said the session would be an important opportunity to examine what the reforms could mean for Welsh communities.

She said: “If PCCs are to be abolished, it is essential that any new arrangements

ensure police forces in Wales remain clearly accountable to the public and that communities continue to have a strong voice in shaping policing priorities.

“We also want to explore views on the optimal number of forces for Wales and the importance of striking a balance between efficiency and preserving a strong understanding of local needs.”

CAll foR evidenCe

Ahead of the session, the committee is inviting written evidence from academic and policy experts.

It is asking how Welsh police forces should be held to account if PCCs are abolished, what lessons should be learned from the current model, and what the optimal number of police forces for Wales should be.

The committee also wants views on how other parts of the UK Government’s policing reforms could affect Wales, and the arguments for and against devolving policing to the Welsh Government.

The Welsh Affairs Committee is a House of Commons select committee. It scrutinises the work of the Wales Office and UK Government policies that affect Wales.

Valentine’s Day assault after money demand

A PeMbRokeSHiRe man has been sentenced for a valentine’s day assault after demanding money from a woman.

Daniel Maddox, 43, attended Michelle Talbot’s property in Haverfordwest on Valentine’s Day, 2026, where a family member heard the defendant demand money from the female.

“The couple could be heard arguing and then Maddox was seen pushing her forcefully, causing her to fall backwards,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week. “He was then seen throwing a mug to the

floor, causing it to smash.”

Sian Vaughan said that, despite the force of the push, Ms Talbot sustained no injuries during the assault.

Maddox, of Shoemakers Court, Haverfordwest, pleaded guilty to assault by beating and causing criminal damage to the mug.

He was sentenced to an 18-month community order, during which he must carry out 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was ordered to pay £50 compensation to the victim, fined £80, and ordered to pay £85 costs.

Dinas Cross man jailed over shop thefts

A PRolifiC shoplifter has been sentenced after being caught stealing items from three food stores in north Pembrokeshire.

The first offence took place on November 22, 2025, when 40-year-old William Lewis walked out of the Co-op supermarket in Fishguard with a fourpack of Peroni beer, valued at £25, without making any attempt to pay.

The following day, he returned to the Co-op and once again helped himself to two more four-packs of Peroni, together with a bottle of red wine, valued at £20.50.

The third offence took place on

February 18, 2026, when Lewis was seen walking out of the Tesco supermarket in Goodwick with a shopping trolley full of numerous food items. The value of the stolen goods is unknown.

This week Lewis, of Parc Brynach, Dinas Cross, pleaded guilty to all three theft charges when he appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. He was sentenced to six weeks in prison and ordered to pay £45.50 compensation to the Co-op supermarket and £60 compensation to Tesco. He must also pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

MP welcomes approval of Shire Hall theatre plan

HAveRfoRdWeST MP Henry Tufnell has welcomed the approval of plans to transform the town’s historic Shire Hall into a theatre, café and restaurant, describing the move as “fantastic news” for the county town.

The comments come after Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee voted by eleven votes to two to approve plans to turn part of the former courthouse on Haverfordwest High Street into a theatre.

As previously reported by The Pembrokeshire Herald, the Grade-II*listed building – described by Cadw as one of the finest of its type in Wales

– has stood largely unused for years despite previous attempts to bring parts of it back into use.

Built in 1835 to the design of local architect William Owen, the former courtroom has played a major role in Pembrokeshire’s legal history, including hosting trials linked to the Rebecca Riots in the nineteenth century.

Posting on social media following the decision, Mr Tufnell said: “Fantastic news for Haverfordwest.

“Built in 1835, Shire Hall is a brilliant piece of local history.

“Today, redevelopment has officially been approved for the courthouse and upper-floor restaurant after a long time out of use.

“The space is set to be transformed into a theatre, café, and restaurant.”

He added that the redevelopment would help secure the future of one of the town’s most recognisable buildings.

The post included a photograph of the MP inside the courthouse with Thomas Baden Tudor, one of those involved in efforts to bring the building back into use.

Supporters of the scheme say the development could become a major cultural attraction for the county town,

boosting footfall and helping revitalise the High Street.

Speaking during the planning meeting, Drew Baker, the proposed end user of the theatre, described the project as an investment in the “cultural economy of Haverfordwest” that would create a “genuine cultural destination” in the heart of the town.

While the planning application for the change of use has now been approved, a separate listed building consent application covering internal alterations – including proposals for a theatre, pizza restaurant and bar –is still under consideration by county planners.

St Davids Cathedral finance crisis reaches national headlines

ST dAvidS CATHedRAl’S worsening financial crisis – first highlighted by The Pembrokeshire Herald on its front page last month – has now made national headlines after a bbC Wales report warned the historic site could face insolvency within two years.

The BBC report, published on Tuesday (June 3), drew attention to a visitation report commissioned by the Bishop of St Davids, which described

the cathedral’s financial position as its “most critical” challenge and warned that without urgent action it could become unsustainable.

While The Herald reported extensively on the findings of the report in May, including concerns around governance, leadership, finances and the need for renewal,

the BBC has now focused attention on one of its starkest warnings –that continued deficits and dwindling reserves could place the cathedral at risk of insolvency within two years.

The visitation report stated that unrestricted financial deficits had continued for seven years and warned reserves had fallen to “dangerously low” levels. It said that without “robust and disciplined planning and financial management”, the cathedral’s ability to sustain its role could be put at risk.

However, the report stopped short of predicting closure, instead warning that insolvency was a possibility if urgent action was not taken.

The Church in Wales has stressed that the visitation should be viewed as an opportunity for renewal rather than criticism, with work already underway to address concerns.

In a statement issued following publication of the report, the Bishop of St Davids, the Right Reverend Dorrien Davies, said the process was intended to support the cathedral rather than condemn it.

He said: “Such scrutiny is not a sign of failure, but of care and hope for the future.”

The Herald’s original coverage in May highlighted broader concerns raised in the report, including safeguarding, strained community links, the cathedral’s limited use of Welsh, volunteer shortages, and concerns over decision-making by cathedral leadership.

St Davids Cathedral, founded in the sixth century and visited by around 300,000 people each year, remains one of Wales’ most significant religious and historic landmarks.

The BBC report has reignited public concern about the future of the cathedral, with local councillors warning any loss or decline would be devastating for the city and wider Pembrokeshire economy.

For many in Pembrokeshire, the question is no longer whether St Davids Cathedral faces serious challenges –but how quickly meaningful action can be taken to secure its future.

Welsh Government under pressure to prove NHS ‘renewal’ is reaching patients

THe WelSH goveRnMenT is facing pressure to show that its plans for nHS “renewal” are delivering real improvements for patients, amid continuing concern over waiting lists, ambulance delays, A&e pressures and cancer treatment times.

Reform Wales’ Shadow Minister for Health, Prevention and Sport, James Evans MS, challenged the Health Minister in the Senedd on Tuesday (Jun 2), accusing Ministers of relying on “slogans” while patients continue to wait for care.

But the issue extends beyond party politics. Across Wales, patients, NHS staff and health boards remain under pressure from high demand, delayed discharges, workforce shortages and the continuing backlog in planned treatment.

For west Wales, the debate is especially important. Patients in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion often face long journeys for appointments and specialist treatment, while Hywel Dda University Health Board continues to face recruitment and capacity challenges across its hospitals, including Withybush, Glangwili, Prince Philip

and Bronglais.

Mr Evans said: “The NHS in Wales is in crisis. Patients are being failed, staff are being failed and confidence in the system is being eroded.

“Behind every statistic is a person, a family and someone who has waited far too long for treatment. The people of Wales do not need another speech about renewal; they need treatment. They do not need more slogans; they need delivery.”

Welsh Ministers say improving

access to care, reducing waiting times and supporting frontline services remain priorities. They have previously argued that NHS Wales is treating large numbers of patients while dealing with the long-term impact of the pandemic and rising demand.

However, opposition parties say patients will judge the Government by outcomes rather than statements — including whether ambulances arrive sooner, A&E waits fall,

cancer treatment starts faster and routine operations take place within acceptable timescales.

Health unions and professional bodies have also warned that staff are working under sustained pressure, with concerns over burnout, vacancies and the ability of services to meet demand.

The Herald has asked the Welsh Government, Hywel Dda University Health Board and NHS staff representatives for comment.

Woman dies after emergency response at West Angle beach

A WoMAn has died following an emergency response at West Angle beach on Sunday afternoon.

Angle RNLI was launched at 3:09pm on Sunday, May 24, following an urgent request to assist with an incident at the beach.

Once on scene, the lifeboat’s Y boat was deployed ashore with three crew members on board.

The RNLI crew worked alongside St Govan’s and Tenby Coastguard Rescue Teams, Welsh Ambulance Service paramedics, the Wales Air Ambulance and Dyfed-Powys Police.

The crew remained at the scene for around two hours.

A spokesperson for Angle RNLI said: “No further details will be released.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the casualty at this difficult time.”

Busy week for lifeboat crew

The callout was one of four attended by Angle RNLI during a busy few days for the volunteer crew.

At 4:27pm on Monday, the lifeboat was requested to launch following reports that two people had been

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caught in a rip current at Freshwater West Beach.

The launch was later cancelled after it was confirmed that the two people had been brought safely ashore by a surfer.

Later the same evening, at 6:32pm, the crew was paged again to assist a four-metre speedboat with two people on board which had broken down and was drifting near Angle Buoy.

The vessel was taken under tow to the Cleddau Reach slipway and safely recovered by 9:00pm.

Mayday call from yacht

On Wednesday, at 6:05pm, Angle RNLI was launched following a mayday call from the lone skipper of a 10-metre yacht, around 25 miles south-west of St Ann’s Head.

The yacht had suffered engine failure and, because of a lack of wind, the skipper was unable to sail.

Fatigue and seasickness led the skipper to issue the distress call.

An Angle RNLI spokesperson said: “With the skipper now severely seasick and unable to leave the cockpit, two crew members from the lifeboat were transferred onboard to assist.

“With the vessel adrift and without a means of power, and taking into consideration the effects this was having on the skipper, the safest course of action was to take the vessel under tow.

“With a tow passed and set, the crew began the five-hour journey back to Milford Haven.”

The yacht was safely brought into the marina with help from marina staff.

The lifeboat crew returned to station and made the vessel ready for further service by 2:00am.

Pembroke Dock driver avoided jail after drug-drive crash

A doCk motorist has narrowly avoided imprisonment after driving into a parked vehicle with what the Crown described as “a cocktail of drugs” in her system.

Stacey Wootton, 30, was seen hitting a parked vehicle the week before

Christmas as she drove her Volkswagen Golf along Military Road in Pennar.

“She was seen by a police officer and didn’t seem aware of what was going on,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“She appeared to be drugged up and when she got out of the car, she was staggering. She was clearly heavily influenced by the drugs and could hardly speak.”

The officer’s suspicions were confirmed when blood tests carried out at the police station showed that Wootton had 240mcg of the cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine in her system and 3mg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. The legal limits are 50 and 2 respectively.

Traces of ketamine and diazepam were also discovered in her blood, although these were below the legal threshold.

Wootton, of Military Road, Pennar, Pembroke Dock, pleaded guilty to two

charges of drug driving.

Given the seriousness of the offences, District Judge Mark Layton requested an all-options probation report prior to sentencing.

“The offence stems from the defendant’s drug misuse issues as a result of the breakdown of her five-year relationship,” said probation officer Julie Norman. “It’s appropriate that some rehabilitation is offered to her to help her through her problem.”

After considering the probation report, District Judge Layton sentenced Wootton to eight weeks in custody, suspended for 18 months. During this time she must carry out 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

A 12-month foreign travel prohibition requirement was imposed on her, and she was disqualified from driving for a total of five years. The defendant must also pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Milford woman fined after missing drugs assessment

A MilfoRd woman has been fined for failing to attend an initial drugs assessment after cocaine and opiates were found in her system. An appointment was made for 46-year-old Marion Picton to attend the assessment on February 12 after drugs were found in her system last November.

But her failure to attend resulted in her appearance before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where Picton, of Hawthorn Path, Milford Haven, admitted failing to attend the assessment.

She was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £32 surcharge.

Mass rescue as lifeguards save three lives during busy half-term

THRee lives were saved and seven people rescued by Swansea Rnli lifeguards during a busy bank Holiday and half-term period which saw a major rescue at Three Cliffs bay.

RNLI lifeguards were called into action on the afternoon of Monday (May 25), when a powerful rip current pulled several beachgoers into difficulty.

Lifeguard Morgan Burgess first spotted two young children being carried out by the rip. A young boy was struggling to stay above the water, while a girl was unable to make it back to shore.

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Morgan entered the water with a rescue tube, clipped the boy in and towed both children back to safety.

Within moments, the situation became even more serious.

Lifeguard Rhys Sabine had already seen adults in difficulty further out. He paddled a rescue board into the rip and reached a man and woman, getting them onto the board before urgently signalling for backup.

Lifeguard Riley Jones entered the water with a rescue tube, while Morgan

Motorist fined after refusing drug swipe

A PAniC attack after a motorist was asked to provide police with a roadside drug swipe has resulted in a hefty court sentence after the defendant pleaded guilty to a string of motoring offences.

Steven Mathias, 45, was stopped by officers on May 1 when a Police National Computer check revealed his vehicle was being driven along Vine Road, Johnston, without third-party insurance. When asked to provide a routine

roadside drug swipe, Mathias, who was the driver and owner of the vehicle, refused.

This week he pleaded guilty to failing to co-operate with a preliminary test, driving without third-party insurance, and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

Mathias, of Plas Peregrine, Steynton, Milford Haven, chose to be legally unrepresented in court.

“I’m remorseful for what happened and accept I was driving without a licence and was uninsured,” he told the court in mitigation. “But my partner had kidney stones, and that day I had to drive her to hospital. This was a genuine reason.

“When I was stopped by the police, I had a panic attack and just wanted to get myself out of the situation. But I accept that’s no excuse.”

Mathias was fined £420 and ordered to pay a £168 court surcharge and £85 costs. His licence was endorsed with six penalty points.

services were stood down.

Vinny Vincent, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, said: “The rescue was part of a demanding half-term period for lifeguard teams across the Swansea region, with sustained call-outs across multiple beaches throughout the week.

“The team’s swift and coordinated response meant that everyone who entered the water that afternoon made it home safely.”

The incident was one of several across the Swansea coastline during a hot and sunny half-term week, which brought large crowds to local beaches.

At Aberavon Beach, lifeguards assisted with a fracture and provided casualty care. They also dealt with several missing children, with support from the Coastguard, Port Talbot Lifeboat and Police.

returned to the sea with a board.

As the team pushed further out, Rhys saw a man going under. He left his board with the casualties already on it and swam to the man, pulling him back to the surface.

At the same time, Riley reached a woman and young girl, supporting them with a rescue tube. Morgan arrived with the board and the team worked together to bring everyone safely back to shore.

One adult male needed further care on the beach and was given oxygen while an ambulance was called. After assessment, he was discharged into the care of a family member and emergency

On Tuesday (May 26), RNLI lifeguards at Langland Beach carried out five assists using a rescue board, mainly involving children who had got out of their depth. Lifeguards also dealt with two missing person incidents with assistance from the Coastguard and Police.

The RNLI is reminding people that, although air temperatures may feel warm at this time of year, the sea remains cold and cold water shock is still a serious risk.

Anyone who gets into difficulty in the water should Float To Live: tilt your head back, keep your ears submerged, relax and try to breathe normally, move your hands and feet to stay afloat, and call for help once you have regained control of your breathing.

Anyone who sees someone in difficulty in the water should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Man banned for drink-driving Land Rover

A PeMbRokeSHiRe motorist has admitted driving through fishguard High Street while over the drink-drive limit.

Peter Griffith, 58, of Brynderw, High Street, Fishguard, was stopped by officers on May 12 as he drove his Land Rover Defender through High Street, Fishguard.

He went on to provide breathalyser tests that showed he had 56mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35mcg.

This week Griffith pleaded guilty to the drink-driving offence when he appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. He was legally represented by Alaw Harries, who said this was the defendant’s first appearance before a court. She also submitted a number of character references to District Judge Mark Layton for his consideration prior to sentencing. Griffith was disqualified from driving for a total of 16 months and was fined £376. He was ordered to pay a £150 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Youth centre given colourful new look thanks to local firm

young people at a Haverfordwest youth centre have helped transform one of its rooms into a bright and welcoming space.

The Edge Youth Centre, Haverfordwest, has thanked W.B Griffiths & Son Ltd for supporting the painting and decorating project, which saw young people work alongside Chris, a painter and decorator from the company.

The project has given the room a colourful refresh, creating a cheerful space for young people using the centre.

Rabart Decorators Merchants, Pembroke Dock, also supported the work by supplying the colourful paints.

A spokesperson for The Edge Youth Centre said: “We’d like to extend a huge thank you to W.B Griffiths & Son Ltd for supporting us with the painting and

decorating of one of the rooms at our Youth Centre.

“The young people were fortunate enough to work alongside Chris, a painter and decorator from W.B Griffiths & Son Ltd, to transform the room.

“Thanks to Chris and the young people’s hard work and enthusiasm, the space is now looking bright, welcoming, and cheerful.

“We’d also like to thank Rabart Decorators Merchants, Pembroke Dock, for generously supplying the colourful paints. Your support has helped create a vibrant room that young people can enjoy for years to come.”

The centre added: “Thank you both for your generosity and for helping us create such a positive space for our young people.”

Road safety operations to be shaped by public concerns

PubliC concerns about speeding, drink and drug driving, mobile phone use and anti-social driving are being used to shape targeted roads policing operations across the dyfed-Powys Police area. Surveys submitted through

Dyfed-Powys Connects are being combined with collision data and local intelligence to identify problem areas and plan enforcement activity.

Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Teams, Roads Policing Units and GoSafe are working

together on the initiative, with monthly meetings held to review concerns raised by residents.

The operations will focus on offences including speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while driving. Anti-social driving has also been highlighted by members of the public.

Offending motorists stopped during the operations may be offered roadside engagement or face enforcement action.

Police said drivers could be offered a free roadside engagement session or a fixed penalty, depending on the offence and circumstances. A seatbelt offence currently carries a £100 fine, while a speeding offence can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points.

Motorists who refuse to engage with officers, or who are found to be exceeding the speed limit by a greater margin, may be prosecuted.

GoSafe will also assist with targeted enforcement in surrounding areas. Offences recorded by GoSafe

may result in an educational course or a fixed penalty, depending on eligibility.

Chief Inspector Dominic Jones, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “The information people give us through Dyfed-Powys Connects is invaluable. It lets our teams get into the heart of communities struggling with these issues.

“Connects is opening a new way for us to talk directly with people and have conversations that shape what our officers are doing.

“The more we get from people on Dyfed-Powys Connects, the more we can target this behaviour and make our roads safer for everyone.”

Dyfed-Powys Connects is free to sign up for and is available online or as an app. It provides local alerts about policing activity, crime, anti-social behaviour, events and prevention messages.

Police said the activity and results of the road safety operations will also be published through Dyfed-Powys Connects.

Criminal shops ‘blighting high streets’ as Reform calls for crackdown

RefoRM Wales has called for an urgent crackdown on criminal businesses allegedly operating from high streets across Wales.

The party says rogue shops masquerading as legitimate businesses are undermining honest traders, damaging confidence in town centres and adding to the pressure already facing Welsh high streets.

Jason O’Connell MS, Reform Wales’ Shadow Minister for Economy and Transport, raised the issue in the Senedd on Tuesday (Jun 2), warning that some premises were being exploited for organised crime, including money laundering, illicit tobacco and vape sales, illegal working and other criminal activity.

His intervention follows a series of UKwide reports and enforcement operations highlighting concerns that cash-intensive businesses such as mini-marts, vape shops, barbers, takeaways and sweet shops can be used as fronts by organised criminal networks.

The UK Government last month announced a £30m crackdown on rogue high street businesses, with a new unit targeting money laundering, tax evasion and illegal working.The National Crime Agency has previously warned that cash-intensive businesses, including barbershops, vape shops, nail bars,

sweet shops and car washes, are often used by criminals to disguise the source of illicit cash.

In Wales, the issue comes at a time when many town centres are already struggling with empty units, weak footfall, rising costs and pressure on legitimate retailers.

Welsh Government labour market figures published in April showed Wales had an economic inactivity rate of 25.1%, compared with a UK rate of 21.0%.

Mr O’Connell said: “Wales has the

highest rate of economic inactivity in the United Kingdom, while businesses on our high streets continue to face some of the highest rates and greatest pressures anywhere in Britain.

“Yet illegal shops masquerading as legitimate businesses are blighting our high streets, undermining honest traders, and damaging confidence in our town centres and local economies.

“Reform Wales will put genuine Welsh businesses first and work with the UK Government and law enforcement

agencies to stamp out criminality on our high streets.”

The issue has raised wider concerns about the resources available to Trading Standards teams, local councils and police forces to investigate suspicious premises and take enforcement action.

Legitimate traders say they are left competing with operators who may avoid taxes, business rates, employment rules and product safety regulations, allowing them to undercut businesses that play by the rules.

There are also public health concerns around illicit tobacco and illegal vapes, particularly where products are sold to children or fail to meet safety standards.

However, campaigners and enforcement bodies have also warned that any crackdown must be intelligenceled and avoid unfairly targeting legitimate small businesses, including immigrantowned shops that operate lawfully and contribute to local economies.

Reform Wales said stronger joint working was needed between the Welsh Government, UK Government, police, HMRC, the National Crime Agency, Trading Standards and local authorities.

The party said action was needed not only to tackle crime, but to restore pride and confidence in Welsh town centres.

Another Milford Haven shop hit as traders face growing crime fears

MilfoRd HAven residents are rallying behind the owner of AJ Store in Pill lane after the independent shop was hit by another break-in.

The latest incident has left the shopkeeper facing repair and security costs just nine months after taking over the business.

Supporters say the owner has worked hard to keep the shop running and provide a valuable service to the local community, investing his own time, energy and savings into the business.

A fundraiser has now been launched, with the owner’s permission, to help towards repairs and improved security.

Community support

The appeal says: “Our local shop has recently suffered another breakin, leaving the owner facing repair and security costs that are difficult for a small independent business to manage.

“Having taken over the shop just nine months ago, he has worked hard to keep the business running and provide a valuable service to the local community.

“Following the latest incident, repairs and security improvements are needed to help protect the future of the business.”

Organisers said every donation, however small, would make a difference, and urged those unable to contribute to share the appeal with friends, family and local community groups.

Wider concerns

The break-in comes amid continuing concern about attacks on shops and

small businesses in Milford Haven.

The Herald has previously reported on robberies and break-ins affecting traders in the town, including incidents in the Pill Lane and Charles Street areas.

Last year, Pill Corner Store was targeted three times in two months, while the nearby Pill Ship store was also robbed at knifepoint. In another case, the One Stop store in Charles

Street was burgled, with tobacco, cigarettes, vapes and other items stolen.

Small independent shops are often left to deal not only with the financial cost of crime, but also the emotional strain and the cost of trying to improve security afterwards.

How to help

Residents wishing to support the AJ Store owner can donate through

the community fundraiser here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/helpa-local-shopkeeper-get-back-on-hisfeet

The appeal is titled “Help A Local Shopkeeper Get Back On His Feet – AJ Store, Pill Lane, Milford Haven” and says donations will go towards repairs and security improvements following the latest break-in

Narberth cash machine closures spark urgent access review

CAllS have been made for an urgent review of access to cash in narberth after two town centre ATMs were closed.

Henry Tufnell MP and Cllr Marc Tierney say the popular market town has been left with just one cash machine, raising concerns for residents, visitors and local businesses.

Although cash can still be withdrawn from the Post Office, access

is restricted to working hours and is unavailable for much of the weekend and on Bank Holidays.

Mr Tufnell said the closures came at a particularly difficult time, with Pembrokeshire entering the busy summer tourism period.

He said: “People in Narberth must be able to rely on access to cash. It is

vital for the local economy. Residents, visitors and businesses all depend on cash for everyday transactions.

“The closure of two ATMs in the town centre has left Narberth with just a single machine. This is not good enough for my constituents, particularly as we enter the busiest period of the year for tourism.

“That is why I called for LINK, the body responsible for protecting access to cash across the UK, to carry

out an access to cash assessment for Narberth as soon as possible.

“I am pleased that these calls have been listened to, and a review of cash access will be carried out in the coming weeks.

“Too often, our rural communities face poor access to vital banking services. I will continue to engage with constituents, local businesses, the council, LINK and colleagues in Parliament to ensure that everyone in Pembrokeshire can access the services they need.”

Cllr Tierney said he had been speaking to residents and businesses in recent weeks who were worried about the issue.

He said: “Narberth is a market town and an important hub for several smaller rural communities, so I am pleased that, following our calls for action, LINK will be reviewing the town’s access to cash.

“This will help to ensure that the needs of local residents and visitors are being met.

“I’m pleased to be working with Henry Tufnell MP on making the case for Narberth and Pembrokeshire communities, and will continue to keep residents updated.”

Residents and businesses are being encouraged to continue sharing their experiences of cash access in the town.

GWR accused of blocking direct west Wales to Bristol train plan

WeST WAleS passengers could get direct trains to bristol before the end of the year — but the plan has sparked a row between the Welsh government and great Western Railway.

Transport for Wales wants to introduce new services from Milford Haven or Fishguard, running through Carmarthen, Llanelli, Swansea and Cardiff to Bristol Temple Meads.

The proposal would mean passengers from Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire could travel directly to Bristol without having to change trains at Cardiff Central.

TfW hopes to run the service every

two hours from Monday to Saturday, with some trains starting in west Wales and one beginning in Cardiff. The aim is to launch the route by December 2026.

The plan would be particularly significant for Pembrokeshire, where rail links remain limited and passengers travelling to England often face long journey times and inconvenient changes.

It could also improve access for people using Fishguard Harbour for ferry connections to Ireland, as well as students, workers, tourists and families travelling between west Wales and the

Man wanted in connection with rape investigation has Pembrokeshire links

MilfoRd HAven and neyland police have issued an appeal to help

locate a man wanted in connection with a rape investigation.

Officers are assisting colleagues from Warwickshire Police, who are seeking information on the whereabouts of 23-year-old Rhys Trott in connection with a rape allegation in Nuneaton.

Police say Trott is believed to have links to the Milford Haven area of Pembrokeshire.

In a public appeal, Warwickshire Police said they are keen to trace Trott as part of ongoing enquiries.

Anyone who has seen him or has information about his whereabouts is urged to contact Warwickshire Police through their website or by quoting the relevant incident details.

Milford Haven and Neyland Police shared the appeal on social media on Tuesday (June 3), asking local residents to come forward with any information that may assist officers.

Bristol area.

The Welsh Government has reacted angrily, accusing GWR of trying to disrupt improvements for passengers.

Deputy Minister for Transport, Mark Hooper said it was “extremely disappointing” that GWR would seek to “disrupt these plans to improve things for passengers on both sides of the Severn”.

He said: “If Great Western Railway’s objection succeeds, it would negatively impact tens of thousands who could benefit from this service.

“I will be writing to the UK Transport Minister to urgently ask for clarification and call for some common sense on this issue.”

For many west Wales passengers, the current journey to Bristol involves changing at Cardiff, adding inconvenience and uncertainty to already long journeys.

A direct service from Milford Haven or Fishguard would mark a major improvement for communities along the west Wales main line, including Haverfordwest, Whitland, Carmarthen, Llanelli and Swansea.

However, Great Western Railway, which already operates services between Cardiff and Bristol, has raised concerns about the impact on its income and existing services.

GWR said the new TfW trains were likely to have a “significant effect” on its revenue and could affect services in the

GWR said it welcomed enhancements for passengers, but added that any changes must not be “detrimental to existing services or already agreed future services which will serve south Wales”.

The final decision on TfW’s application will be made by the Office of Rail and Road.

Carmarthenshire tin theft conspirators jailed after £1m Tata Steel plot

Men who conspired to steal more than £1m worth of tin ingots from Tata Steel’s Trostre site in llanelli have been sentenced.

The conspiracy involved Tata employees Thomas Ashford, Stuart Jones and Richard Jones, together with co-defendant Matthew Membury.

Swansea Crown Court heard the men used a cloned security pass to access the site after deliveries had been received, before loading one or two-tonne blocks of tin into a van.

Dyfed-Powys Police were alerted in October 2024 after Tata Steel reported a suspected large-scale theft from the Llanelli site.

The company told officers that each time a delivery of tin ingots arrived, one or two blocks were missing by the following day. At that stage, around £500,000 worth of metal was believed to have been stolen across 13 incidents.

Police suspected that a van was being driven onto the site in the early hours using a cloned security pass under the name David Davies.

Security supervisor Stuart Jones and cast house supervisor Thomas Ashford were alleged to have allowed entry to the site and opened the warehouse, where the tin was loaded using a forklift.

Officers monitored deliveries and access card activations, and at 5:31am on October 11, 2024, were alerted that the suspect card had been used.

A van was seen entering the premises and was intercepted as it left. Inside, officers found one tonne of tin ingot worth £30,000.

Membury, who was driving the van, was arrested along with Ashford and Stuart Jones on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft.

A CID investigation, using CCTV, financial records and digital evidence, established that the thefts took

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

between three and 18 minutes to carry out.

Officers found Ashford and Stuart Jones had been arriving at work early on the days in question to help facilitate the offences.

The investigation also revealed the conspiracy had been running since July 2023, long before the initial report to police.

Another Tata employee, Richard Jones, was later found to have been involved. Police said he had placed ingots to one side ready for Membury’s arrival and had received £62,000 for his part.

Jones, aged 39, of Ceri Road, Swansea, was arrested at his home in

January 2025.

Financial enquiries established that the total profit made from the stolen ingots was £743,826. The metal was melted down and sold at scrap yards across Wales and England.

All four men admitted conspiracy to commit theft at Swansea Crown Court.

On Tuesday (June 2), Stuart Jones, aged 56, of Maeswerdd, Llanelli, was jailed for 40 months.

Thomas Ashford, aged 36, of St David’s Road, Ammanford, was also jailed for 40 months.

Richard Jones, aged 39, of Ceri Road, Swansea, was given a 20-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

Matthew Membury, aged 32, of Cathan Close, Port Mead, will be

sentenced at a later date.

Officer in the case Detective Sergeant Jake Thomas said: “This is an excellent example of proactive work involving multiple departments, which resulted in the identification of a number of offenders who were intercepted in the act of carrying out their crime.

“I would like to thank everyone involved who worked on this investigation, as well as staff at Tata Steel for their assistance while we carried out enquiries.

“I am pleased that justice has taken its part following what was a prolonged and complex conspiracy, which has resulted in a large loss to a locally based and well-known company.”

New government minister declares Wales is ‘open for business’

WAleS is “open for business”, according to the new minister for enterprise, connectivity, and energy.

Former Plaid Cymru leader, Adam Price, who was appointed to the role last month, told Senedd colleagues on Tuesday, June 2 that the new Welsh Government will be “placing productivity at the heart of its approach”.

In his new role, Mr Price has responsibility over areas such as tourism, Business Wales, and international trade policy and promotion, including overseeing matters relating to the UK/EU Trade. He is also responsible for economic strategy and policy.

He said: “Productivity is the foundation of long-term prosperity. It underpins wages, living standards and competitiveness.

“Today, Wales continues to lag behind, with productivity around 15% lower than the UK average. But productivity is not an abstract measure; it’s about raising incomes, creating better jobs, and ensuring prosperity is shared all across Wales.”

Mr Price said the Welsh Government would be adopting a new approach, which he described as a “mission to tackle productivity and a target to reduce Wales’s productivity gap by half with the UK within ten years”.

Concluding his speech to the Senedd, he said: “This is a moment of opportunity. Wales has the assets, the talent, and potential to succeed. What is now needed is leadership and delivery.

“It requires focus and a relentless emphasis on delivery. It requires a government prepared to make choices and act with pace.

“And it requires a clear mission, one that puts productivity, people and firms at its core. That is our mission.”

Jason O’Connell, Reform’s shadow minister for economy and transport

Jason O’Connell, Reform’s shadow minister for economy and transport, challenged Mr Price on his plans to establish a new national development agency.

He questioned plans to bring back a “failed” Welsh development agency and said: “History tells us that it was another unnecessary bureaucratic quango that was linked to illegally inflated redundancy payments, where directors flew first class around the world while communities across Wales were left behind.

“And this is Plaid’s answer to the economic decay that infects our towns and valleys. The same model, the same results, not even new branding.”

The shadow minister acknowledged the previous Welsh Development Agency created jobs but claimed it also created a “hollowed-out Welsh economy”.

Mr O’Connell said his party would instead allow “no additional bloated quangos, no new layers of bureaucracy and no abdication of ministerial responsibility to unnamed and

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

unaccountable civil servants”.

In response Mr Price expanded upon his reasoning for creating the new agency and said: “We want to be evidence-led, and the evidence from right across the world shows pretty conclusively, if you ask pretty much any leading economist in this area, that development agencies are the triedand-tested tool for any nation, region or anywhere else that has driven up the kind of trajectory in terms of productivity growth that I’ve described.

“Is it the only thing that you should do? Absolutely not. We’re not going to achieve it just through the development agency, but it’s a pretty necessary tool in the toolbox, based on the experience elsewhere.”

Labour’s spokesperson for employment, equalities, and economic transformation, Shav Taj

Shav Taj, Labour’s spokesperson for employment, equalities, and economic transformation

Labour’s spokesperson for employment, equalities, and economic transformation, Shav Taj, also pressed Mr Price on his plans.

She said: “We’ve heard a lot about the government’s plans, of course, about the new Welsh development agency, but people aren’t asking for promises – they want action, and they want it now.”

Ms Taj, part of the new cohort of Senedd Members following last month’s election, continued: “Creating a new sort of agency takes time, it takes effort, it takes money and it takes focus, of course, and people in Wales don’t want or need quangos or structures just for the sake of it.

“What we need is more well-paid, skilled and secure work in every single part of our country, because right now

families are genuinely feeling the pressure. Making ends meet, paying the bills – that is the stark reality.”

Ms Taj pointed to the previous Labour government’s work and said: “In the 12 months leading up to the Wales investment summit, Wales attracted £4.6 billion of inward investment”.

“We know that Plaid talk about their ambition for Wales, and, of course, we all share that.

“The reality is: will those actions then match it? Can the cabinet secretary tell us whether his new development agency will beat this figure?”

Mr Price responded: “I think that it’s important to bring us back, isn’t it, to the focus of today, which is the announcement of a goal, a target, which we lacked for 20 years.

“Nobody can absolutely predict the future with 100% certainty. It’s not possible. But one thing we can predict: if you don’t have a goal at all, if you don’t have a target at all, you’ll never achieve it; you can’t even measure progress.

“And that’s why the first step in any plan to revitalise the Welsh economy is to be clear about the direction of travel. In the absence of that clarity in the previous administration, we had decades of drift. So, we are setting that right.”

Janet Finch-Saunders, the Conservative spokesperson for enterprise, connectivity, and energy, highlighted the importance of cooperation within the Senedd and believing in Wales.

She said: “I’d like to stop, right from the start of this new government, where we talk Wales down.

“I have more confidence and some faith in the new government. I’ve worked with them for over 15 years, many of their members.”

She continued: “We’ve got to be positive now, because, as has been said

here today, Wales is in a mess business wise, and there’s a lot to be done.”

Noting her planned meeting for next week to discuss the Menai Bridge, Ms Finch-Saunders continued to stress the importance of all the parties of the Senedd working together to achieve the best outcomes for Wales.

The Bangor Conwy Mon MS went on to quiz Mr Price on issues such as mobile phone connectivity, broadband connectivity, and transport infrastructure.

She said: “You talk of Wales being open for business, but, in your first statement as cabinet Sec, there is a complete absence of a plan to fix our roads.

“So, I feel that’s a glaring omission. Our transport system is not fit for purpose. We have to get more inward investment into Wales, but, unless you put those priorities in place, then we’re not going to see any improvements.”

Mr Price, in response, welcomed Ms Finch-Saunders’ commitment to crossparty working, and said: “New ideas from any direction, I think, are absolutely incredibly valuable, and we will approach this important responsibility that we have in a collaborative manner, in the way that she described.”

He agreed with her on the “absolute centrality of infrastructure” and continued: “If we think about the productivity goal that we’ve set out as the mission today, then, you know, most economists would say that there are three key elements in terms of the longterm success of achieving that kind of productivity growth.

“One is skills, the other one is innovation, the third one is infrastructure, and so getting the infrastructure right so that our businesses then have the platform that they need in order to deliver their own business potential.”

National Trust Pembrokeshire Gupton Farm ‘landpods’ approval

PlAnS to diversify a national Trust campsite on the Pembrokeshire coast, with seasonal siting for campervans and ‘landpods’ have been approved.

In an application recommended for delegated approval at the June meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s development management committee, the National Trust sought permission for a change of use of land for camping, the seasonal siting of five ‘landpods’ and 20 campervans and associated works at Gupton Farm, near Freshwater West.

The application was before the committee rather than being decided by planning officers as it is an application recommended for approval which was a departure from the adopted Local Development Plan 2.

An officer report recommending approval said the 4.5 hectare site currently operates as an established seasonal campsite under a National Trust exemption certificate, with a permission dating back 10 years or so for five campervans and 45 tents, and a maximum of 50 pitches.

“The proposal seeks to formalise and diversify the existing operation by allowing greater flexibility in accommodation type and pitch management whilst maintaining the existing overall site capacity of a maximum of 100 people and 50 pitches per night.”

It added: “The submitted information confirms that the proposal does not seek

to increase overall occupancy levels at the site but instead proposes a redistribution of accommodation types through increased campervan provision and the introduction of seasonal landpods. The landpods are proposed as free-standing seasonal structures with no permanent drainage or utility connections and would be removed from the site during December, January and February.”

It says that, while the scheme represents a departure from planning policy “due to the sensitive coastal landscape location,” officers consider “that the seasonal nature of the proposal,

the established exempted camping use, the absence of any increase in overall site capacity, the landscape-led design approach and the significant biodiversity and visitor management benefits weigh in favour of the proposal”.

The report adds an original preapplication proposal conflicted in part [with policies] “due to the scale and sensitivity of the site location,” officers advising there could be scope to support “a reducedscale, clearly seasonal proposal where robust landscape mitigation, ecological enhancement and visitor management justification could be demonstrated”.

It said the submitted application sought to address those concerns; the scheme which incorporates “significant landscape

and biodiversity enhancement measures” is “specifically designed as a seasonal and reversible form of development, with the Landpods removed from the site outside the operational season and stored within an existing onsite barn”.

The report later said: “On balance, it is considered that the proposal would not result in unacceptable harm to the special qualities of the National Park and that the material considerations in favour of the proposal outweigh the identified policy tensions in this instance. The principle of the development is therefore considered acceptable subject to appropriate planning conditions.”

It is recommended to delegate conditional approval to officers following the end of a public advertisement period for a policy departure.

Moving approval, Dr Madeleine Havard, chair of the authority, welcomed the seasonal nature of the proposals and the offer of more formal pitches for overnight campervans in the area.

“No overall increase [in pitch numbers] is quite important; critical for me is this is seasonal, therefore we are able to ensure the pods are able to be taken away.

“The possibility it might be able to help the situation in the area regarding campervans as well, I think it’s also very positive.”

The application was approved with 15 votes in favour and one abstention.

Fresh scrutiny call over £1bn Velindre cancer centre contract

ConCeRnS have been raised over the awarding of a near £1bn contract for the new velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff to a consortium linked to companies previously found guilty of bidrigging offences.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister Natasha Asghar MS has written to Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor calling for further scrutiny of the decision by Velindre University NHS Trust to award the contract to the Acorn Consortium.

The consortium includes Sacyr and Kajima Partnerships. Concerns have been raised because members of the Sacyr Group have faced fines over anti-competitive bid-rigging practices in Spain and Portugal, while Kajima Corporation was found guilty in criminal proceedings in Japan relating to bid-rigging.

The issue centres on whether companies involved in such cases should remain eligible for major public contracts while appeals are still ongoing.

Velindre University NHS Trust has previously said the procurement process complied with the regulations in force at the time, and that the relevant convictions remained subject to appeal.

Ms Asghar said public confidence in NHS procurement was vital, particularly while health services remain under pressure.

She said: “That is why it is deeply concerning that a near £1 billion Velindre Cancer Centre contract was awarded to a consortium that

includes companies previously found guilty of bid-rigging offences, raising questions about potential loopholes in the process of awarding public contracts.

“I have written to Plaid Cymru’s Health Minister seeking clarity and further scrutiny over how this decision

was made.”

In her letter, Ms Asghar asks the Welsh Government to consider whether the procurement process was conducted fully in accordance with the relevant legal and regulatory framework.

She also asks whether the interpretation relied upon by the Trust created an unintended loophole allowing companies found guilty of serious anti-competitive conduct to remain eligible for major public contracts pending the exhaustion of appeals.

The letter also calls for consideration of whether further transparency is needed, including publication or independent review of the legal advice relied upon by the Trust.

The new Velindre Cancer Centre is being built in Whitchurch, Cardiff, and is being delivered through the Welsh Government’s Mutual Investment Model.

Audit Wales previously examined decision-making around the project and said the Trust and Welsh Government could demonstrate a sound enough basis for recent decisions, while also warning that the project involved significant long-term costs.

Tenby Freemasons donate £400 to cancer care charity

Tenby freemasons have donated £400 to Tenovus Cancer Care following a raffle held during the lodge’s annual installation banquet.

The raffle took place on the night Damian Brown was installed as Master of Tenby Freemasons Lodge.

As is tradition at the annual installation meeting, the incoming Master chooses a charity to receive the proceeds.

Mr Brown selected Tenovus Cancer Care, a Wales-based charity which supports people affected by cancer through expert advice, counselling and mobile support units.

The charity also funds research into new cancer drugs, improved treatments, and better ways to diagnose and prevent the disease.

Mr Brown later visited the Tenovus shop in Pembroke with lodge charity steward Steve Thurgood, where he presented the donation to volunteer Elena.

Pictured: Damian Brown and Steve Thurgood present the donation to Tenovus volunteer Elena.

Ceibwr Bay Adventure Beyond accommodation refused by park

A CAll to let a north Pembrokeshire coasteering business, which had an adventure centre scheme overturned on appeal and has recently been served a trespass notice by the national Trust, keep a farm building for accommodation has been refused.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Jethro ‘Jet’ Moore, through agent Harries Planning Design Management, sought permission for the retention of existing bunk barn accommodation associated with outdoor activities business Adventure Beyond, previously temporarily approved, at Morawelon, Moylegrove, near Cardigan.

A supporting statement said Mr Moore runs his agricultural enterprise on some 100 acres at Morawelon, also running outdoor activities business Adventure Beyond, which provides outdoor activities including kayaking, coasteering, mountain biking etc, and training courses.

“The business caters for small groups from a variety of backgrounds and purposes, including youth groups and schools, Duke of Edinburgh, corporate grounds and tourism groups.

“The business utilises a variety of locations based on the services able to be provided, including locations within all three Welsh National Parks, the Gower Peninsula but also across the UK, including Dartmoor, Exmoor and further afield.”

It said, since 2013, the outbuildings at Morawelon have been used in

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connection with Adventure Beyond, as a satellite location for overnight accommodation and for for educational/ training purposes; temporary permission being gained in 2019 for five years, the application seeking “to regularise the previous change of use of these buildings”.

Objections to the scheme were received from local community council Nevern, referring to a judicial review of a related Old Bus Depot application by the applicant for an adventure centre in Moylegrove.

Back in 2024, the national park approved an application by Adventure

Beyond Ltd for an outdoor adventure centre, and associated works at The Old Bus Depot, Moylegrove.

It was later ruled by a high court judge to have been granted unlawfully following a legal challenge brought by Wild Justice, who claimed the scheme would see nesting birds and breeding seals disturbed by ‘noisy’ coasteers, a position disputed by Mr Moore.

Objections to the Morawelon scheme were also received from 20 members of the public, claiming it “constitutes corporate expansion rather than farm diversification,” along with claims of antisocial behaviour by site visitors, and “the adverse impact the commercial activities have” on the local biodiversity of Ciebwr Bay and

surrounding nationally protected sites.

An officer report recommending refusal said: “The proposed development has resulted in unacceptable landscape impact on the National Park and could potentially disturb species and habitats within the coastal zone.

“The proposal would not be compatible with the National Park’s purpose of conserving and enhancing its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage, nor would it protect its Special Qualities or its landscape.”

It went on to say there was insufficient information to assess the full scale of the proposed farm diversification, or “whether the diversification is at a scale that prejudices the main agricultural unit, which would constitute a reason for refusal”.

The application was refused on the grounds of landscape and habitats impact, “a lack of information regarding the functionally linked business use of the development, and the interaction between the outdoor activities the business offers, and the proposed development on this site,” and the previously outlined diversification issue.

A trespass notice was recently served on Adventure Beyond by the National Trust stating that continued use of Ceibwr Bay would be considered trespass on its land, the objection centring on concerns that coasteering activities could disturb breeding seabirds at Ceibwr Bay.

Adventure Beyond has challenged the notice.

Pembrokeshire Eisteddfod 2026 funding backed by Cabinet

finAnCiAl backing of this year’s eisteddfod in Pembrokeshire, to the tune of £73,000, with a potential budget of up to £200,000, has been approved by senior councillors.

The 2026 Eisteddfod, running from August 1-8 at Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire, holds particular historical significance as it marks the 850th anniversary of the first recorded Eisteddfod, held in 1176 at Castell Aberteifi.

With this year’s Maes located close to the original site, the event is expected to be a landmark occasion for the region and for Wales as a whole.

The National Eisteddfod is the largest cultural festival in Europe and one of the most prominent events in the Welsh cultural calendar, attracting approximately 175,000 visitors annually.

The festival celebrates Welsh language, literature, music, and the arts, with a diverse programme of competitions, performances, exhibitions, and community activities.

The Eisteddfod proclamation took place in Narberth last May, with hundreds attending.

At the June meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members were asked to approve Pembrokeshire County Council to lead and deliver Pentre’r Garreg Las at the National Eisteddfod 2026.

Cabinet was also asked to approve

potential costs, with hopes the council’s part could be lowered by external funding.

responsible for the overall coordination, planning and funding of the Pentre. This includes the development of the overarching concept, the curation of a coherent thematic programme, and the management of key relationships with partner authorities, stakeholders and delivery partners.”

It went on to say: “While initial site, infrastructure and concept costs have been identified at approximately £73,751 (+ VAT), it is recognised that the full delivery of Pentre’r Garreg Las, as a flagship offer led by Pembrokeshire, will necessitate a broader major events budget estimated in the region of £200,000. The funding for this is coming from the current major events budget with additional funding coming from the initiative fund reserve.”

The report said efforts will be made to maximise external funding opportunities in order to mitigate the net cost to the council.

the current financial commitment of approximately £73,751 (+ VAT), noting that further costs will be finalised as the programme develops, and endorse collaborative arrangements with Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire County Councils.

A budget for up to £200,000 for the promotion of the event is also being pencilled in; members hearing it was hoped this figure would be a ceiling of

A report for members, presented by Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Safeguarding and the Welsh Language Cllr Alistair Cameron, said: “The National Eisteddfod is Europe’s largest travelling cultural festival, attracting up to 170,000 visitors annually and providing a nationally significant platform for the celebration of Welsh language, culture and identity.

“As lead authority, Pembrokeshire is

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Pembrokeshire to showcase the best of this county,” adding: “The last time it was here was 2004, we get to see this opportunity maybe every 20 years, it’s down to us to make the best of the opportunity, overall it’s a fantastic story for us as a county.”

A full budget breakdown is expected at the July Cabinet meeting, members agreeing to back the recommendations.

Haverfordwest opticians to divert old glasses from landfill with new recycling initiative

AHeAd of World environment day (June 5), Specsavers Haverfordwest has introduced a new recycling initiative, giving customers a simple way to responsibly dispose of their unwanted glasses, case and contact lens packaging.

The initiative forms part of Specsavers’ national roll-out of recycling boxes across all UK stores, supporting the business’s ambition to reduce waste and work towards becoming a climate-positive business.

Delivered in partnership with recycling and waste management company MyGroup, the scheme ensures hard-to-recycle plastics that might otherwise end up in landfill are separated, sorted and repurposed into new materials for products such as joinery boards and furniture.

In 2025, Specsavers and MyGroup recycled 72 tonnes of material, equivalent to the weight of a mature blue whale. The amount, collected from 659 stores and labs, represented an increase of almost five tonnes compared with the previous year.

Head of Sustainability for the UK and Ireland, Helen Curran, says: “At Specsavers we believe that sustainability must show up in our everyday operations. Investing in customer recycling in every one of our UK stores is exactly that: a practical, tangible step that keeps valuable

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materials in circulation and makes it genuinely easy for our customers to be part of the solution. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of the increased roll out in the years ahead.”

The expansion of the scheme means a further 300 stores now offer recycling facilities and marks the latest milestone in the initiative, which began

in 2022.

Wayne Jones, retail director at Specsavers Haverfordwest, adds: “As a business serving the Haverfordwest community, we’re always looking for ways to have a positive impact beyond eye and hearing care. We’re proud to introduce this initiative locally and hope customers will support it by bringing unwanted items into the store during their visits.”

Haverfordwest residents wishing to

donate old glasses can visit the store seven days a week.

To find out more information about Specsavers in Haverfordwest, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/ stores/haverfordwest.

Additionally, to make eye health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.

The Big Retreat Festival in Narberth named among UK’s top summer events

nARbeRTH’S popular big Retreat festival has been named one of the uk’s must-visit outdoor festivals this summer in a nationwide study by outdoor retailer go outdoors.

The festival, held annually at Lawrenny near Narberth, ranked tenth in a list of the country’s best outdoor and adventure-led festivals for 2026, scoring 7.11 out of ten.

Researchers at GO Outdoors analysed a range of factors including ticket prices, social media popularity, Google search volumes, familyfriendliness, camping availability, festival length and even average rainfall to compile the rankings.

The Big Retreat Festival was praised for offering a family-friendly experience, camping facilities and a packed three-day programme focused on wellbeing, music, fitness, food and nature.

The Pembrokeshire-based event sits alongside some of the UK’s best-known outdoor gatherings in

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the rankings, including Wilderness Festival in Oxfordshire, Festival of Nature in Bristol and Swim Serpentine in London.

According to the study, The Big Retreat generated more than 12,000 annual Google searches and thousands of social media mentions, helping secure its place in the national

top ten.

The festival, which has grown steadily in popularity since launching, attracts visitors from across the UK to west Wales, combining yoga, wild swimming, inspirational talks, live music, fitness sessions and family activities in the Pembrokeshire countryside.

A spokesperson for GO Outdoors said the rankings were designed to help people choose the best outdoor festivals to enjoy during the summer months, as more Britons look to spend time outdoors and embrace naturefocused experiences.

Wilderness Festival in Oxfordshire took the top spot overall, scoring 9.47 out of ten, while The Big Retreat was the only Pembrokeshire festival to make the national top ten.

The Big Retreat Festival takes place at Lawrenny Estate near Narberth and has become one of west Wales’ biggest wellness and lifestyle events, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

Historic paddle steamer Waverley to return to Fishguard this month

THe WoRld’S last seagoing paddle steamer will return to fishguard this month as part of her annual visit to South West Wales.

Paddle Steamer Waverley will call at Fishguard on Wednesday (Jun 17), offering passengers an evening cruise along the Pembrokeshire coastline.

The historic vessel, which is celebrating 80 years since her launch in 1946, will sail past Strumble Head Lighthouse before continuing towards St David’s Head.

Matthew Tucker MBE, Fishguard Port Manager, said Stena Line Ports was proud to welcome the vessel back to the town.

He said: “Her arrival offers a rare opportunity for visitors and residents alike to experience a unique and muchloved vessel up close.

“This year’s visit is made even more significant as Waverley celebrates the 80th anniversary of her launch, and her call at Fishguard places the port firmly on the map as part of this historic journey, attracting enthusiasts, tourists, and day-trippers eager to be part of the experience.

“We expect the visit to create a vibrant buzz across the area, showcasing Fishguard as a destination rich in heritage and coastal charm.”

Waverley’s General Manager, Paul Semple, said the visit was particularly special as the ship continues to steam around the coastline of Great Britain eight decades after her launch.

He said: “While the cost of operating a historic ship continues to rise, including a 65 per cent increase in fuel costs this season, Waverley remains very much in operation thanks to the tremendous support we receive from passengers,

members, volunteers and supporters across the UK.

“The best way people can help secure Waverley’s future is by stepping aboard and enjoying a cruise, helping to ensure she can continue sailing for generations to come.”

Passengers on board can hear the ship’s telegraph ring, visit the engine

room, watch the paddles turning through the portholes, and enjoy catering facilities including snacks, meals, refreshments and a souvenir shop.

Waverley is also due to call at Milford Haven and Tenby on Tuesday (Jun 16) during her Pembrokeshire visit.

The ship was built in Glasgow for the London and North Eastern Railway,

launched on October 2, 1946, and entered service on June 16, 1947. She was gifted to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society in 1974 for £1 and has since carried more than six million passengers in preservation. Tickets are available from waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.

Paul Davies warns health board over Withybush and Bronglais services

PAul dAvieS MS has said he will continue to oppose any attempt to centralise key hospital services away from Withybush and bronglais, following a meeting with Hywel dda university Health board.

The Ceredigion Penfro Senedd Member said he met health board representatives to discuss the delivery of services across west Wales, amid continuing concern over the future of emergency general surgery at Withybush Hospital and stroke services at Bronglais Hospital.

Mr Davies said he made it “very clear” that he opposed any centralisation of services from the two hospitals.

He said: “I’ve met with Hywel Dda University Health Board to discuss the delivery of services across the health board area.

“I made it very clear that I oppose any centralisation of services from Withybush Hospital and Bronglais Hospital — in particular emergency general surgery services at Withybush and the stroke unit at Bronglais.

“I also told the health board that it needs a change of mindset when it comes to delivering services and that I will continue to stand up for my

constituents and oppose them on any plans to remove services from hospitals in Ceredigion Penfro.”

The comments come after months of concern over Hywel Dda’s Clinical Services Plan, which has considered changes to a number of hospital services including emergency general

surgery, stroke, critical care, radiology, orthopaedics, urology, endoscopy, dermatology and ophthalmology.

In February, the health board backed a future model for emergency general surgery which would see the service delivered from Bronglais and Glangwili, with Withybush no longer

providing that function in the same way.

That decision sparked anger in Pembrokeshire, where campaigners and politicians warned that removing emergency general surgery from Withybush could weaken the longterm position of the hospital’s A&E department and force patients to travel further for urgent treatment.

There is also concern in mid and west Wales over the future of stroke services, with Bronglais Hospital’s stroke unit repeatedly highlighted by local representatives as a vital service for patients in rural Ceredigion and surrounding areas.

Hywel Dda has previously said its clinical services work is aimed at addressing fragile services, improving standards and making care more sustainable across the region.

But Mr Davies said the health board must stop viewing centralisation as the answer.

He added that hospitals in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion serve large rural communities, where journey times, public transport and access to urgent care must be central to any decision about service changes.

Fishguard celebrates small business boom as 25 new ventures open

fiSHguARd is celebrating a major boost for its town centre after 25 new businesses opened in just 18 months.

North Pembrokeshire Trade and Tourism (NPTT) is marking Small Business Week by highlighting what it says is a remarkable period of growth for the town, with a further two businesses expected to launch this month.

The organisation said the figures reflected growing confidence in the local economy and showed Fishguard’s continuing development as a vibrant destination for residents, visitors and independent traders.

At the recent It’s Your Pembrokeshire event in Narberth, representatives from NPTT spoke about Fishguard’s transformation and the role the organisation has played in promoting the town.

NPTT said its work had supported the vision and determination of local business owners who had chosen to invest in Fishguard despite difficult trading conditions.

The group has promoted the town through visitor information points and marketing campaigns across the county, showcasing Fishguard’s independent shops, attractions and coastal location. This month, Fishguard is also being featured in Visit Pembrokeshire’s county-wide promotional campaign.

NPTT chair Andy Linforth said: “The opening of 25 new businesses in just 18 months is a tremendous achievement for Fishguard.

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“It demonstrates the resilience, creativity and confidence of local entrepreneurs and shows that our town is an increasingly attractive place in which to live, work and invest.

“We are delighted to celebrate their success during Small Business Week.”

The town’s growing reputation has also attracted political interest.

This week, Kerry Ferguson MS, Deputy Presiding Officer of the Senedd, is due to spend much of a day with NPTT and local businesses to discuss

the opportunities and challenges facing the small business sector.

NPTT said the continued growth of independent businesses was helping to strengthen the local economy, create employment opportunities and improve Fishguard’s appeal as a year-round destination.

HMS Erebus tragedy links Pembroke Dock ship to Templeton family

DNA breakthrough identifies cabin boy David Young as exhibition marks 200 years since ship’s launch

on MAy 19, 1845, a handsome 17-year-old boy boarded the Pembroke dock-built ship HMS erebus to begin one of the most tortuous and tragic voyages in modern history.

David Young, like all the other crew members around him, was full of excitement and an unquenchable determination that their Arctic expedition would be equally as successful as Erebus’s previous voyage to Antarctica. There, under the leadership of Royal Navy Captain Sir James Clark Ross, the ship smashed through approximately 134 miles of ice to discover the South Magnetic Pole.

This time, led by seasoned polar explorer Sir John Franklin, Erebus’s 69-strong crew was convinced their expedition to the Arctic would uncover that vital sea trading route between the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans — the Northwest Passage. But what they did not know was that this would turn into one of the most gruesome voyages known to mankind.

So extreme was the crew’s final desperation, the men were forced to resort to cannibalism in temperatures which dropped as low as minus 48C. HMS Erebus, together with her crew, would never return to UK waters.

But now, following the discovery of 14 sets of human remains near King William Island, DNA tests have traced David Young to his great-greatgrandnephew, former professional diver Adrian Young, who lives in Templeton, near Narberth.

“David was one of 14 human remains that were found at the site, and finally being able to find out just that little bit more about him means so much to me,” Adrian told The Pembrokeshire Herald.

“In my early 20s, when I was doing some archaeological dives on treasure ships in the Scilly Isles, my aunt told me as much as she knew about David Young. And ever since then, I’ve wanted to find out whether there was a family connection.

“David was obviously a very adventurous young man, and I guess this runs in the family. I worked as a professional diver, I was the chief engineer of tugs, and I also once drove a Land Rover all the way to Turkey!”

David, who served as an Erebus cabin boy, was identified by DNA carried out on his skull and, so far, only five crew members have been identified. These include Captain James Fitzjames, whose jawline showed signs of cannibalism.

Built in Pembroke Dock over 200

Sarah Jane Absalom

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years ago, Erebus was a Hecla-class bomb ketch measuring 104 feet long, which was less than half the length of a standard man o’ war ship. She took 20 months to build at a cost of £14,603, which equates to £1.25m in today’s money.

Launched from Pembroke Dock in 1826, she embarked on her successful Antarctic expedition and then, on May 19, 1845, sailed from Greenhithe in Kent on Franklin’s quest for the Northwest Passage.

HMS Erebus was both a powerful and luxurious ship, boasting a steam engine and a propeller capable of thrusting the boat at four knots and 25hp. The crew benefited from a heating system and vast supplies of provisions to see them through their expected three-year voyage. These included cattle, sheep, pigs and hens, which were transported on two accompanying supply ships.

region, with the result that the crew could no longer rely on locals for meat, clothing and oil. Temperatures dropped to minus 48C at night and minus 35C by day; even taking off a balaclava could rip the skin and beard from the sailors’ chins.

In a desperate attempt to find water to enable them to move forward, in April 1848, David Young and 13 other crewmen left Erebus, pulling a whaling boat over the frozen sea for approximately 19 miles. This would have been an exceptionally arduous effort for the men, as they had little food and water to retain their energy levels. And despite the freezing temperatures, the men would still have sweated heavily given the weight of the whaling boat; whenever they stopped, the sweat would turn to ice, so it was possible that gangrene may have set in.

Nobody will ever know what finally took David’s life, however, it is likely to have been a combination of starvation, exhaustion and possibly scurvy.

When Erebus went missing, Franklin’s wife put up a hefty £10,000 reward for information, while the Royal Navy offered a £3,000 reward. A total of 36 searches were carried out between 1847 and 1859, with the total number of searches eventually amounting to 52. Erebus was finally located in 2014 by Parks Canada.

“This was massive news, as searches had been going on for so long,” said Adrian.

Erebus also had three pets on board — a monkey given by Lady Franklin, a Newfoundland dog called Neptune, and a cat.

Despite their luxuries, the sailors’ lives, under the zealous eye of Sir John Franklin, were undoubtedly tough. Franklin was an exceptionally focused individual whose aim was to succeed at everything he did. As a result, he pushed his men so hard he earned himself the moniker “the man who ate his boots”. At the age of 59, he was by far the oldest crew member on board HMS Erebus.

The intention was for the ship to overwinter in the ice before continuing to voyage in the spring. But the extreme weather conditions meant there was no thaw, and Erebus was forced to remain in the ice for 19 months. The sailors now found themselves at the mercy of the immense pressure of the sea ice and unpredictable icebergs before HMS Erebus became trapped in the desolate area around Beechey Island. The Inuit rarely visited this

“And when they dived down, they found the ship was in exceptionally good condition, with most of the artefacts undamaged. This means Erebus is the only surviving ship launched from Pembroke Dock 200 years ago that still survives. So for me, living just a few miles away, it means so very much, particularly knowing that David Young was my great-great uncle.”

Now, to mark the 200th anniversary of the launch of HMS Erebus from Pembroke Dock, the town’s Heritage Centre is hosting a major exhibition celebrating the ship’s extraordinary history. It brings this remarkable international story back to its birthplace, featuring rare artefacts recovered from the wreck, many of which are being shown to the public for the first time, as well as immersive displays, digital interactives, an Arctic diorama and underwater footage from the wreck site.

The exhibition will run from Monday, June 8, until the end of October.

Paul Sartori Foundation announces new community store.

CHARiTy Paul Sartori foundation has announced a major expansion of its retail operation in Haverfordwest, with a new community store planned for the former factory Shop building on Snowdrop lane.

The new Sartori Community Store is currently under development and will provide a much larger and more flexible space for the charity’s range of high-quality pre-loved and new goods.

Every purchase made at the store will help fund the Foundation’s free hospice at home services, which support patients and families across

Pembrokeshire.

The move marks a significant step for the charity, both in improving the shopping experience and in increasing income for its vital local services.

As part of the transition, Paul Sartori will close its long-standing Bridge Street shop, which has served the Haverfordwest community for 16 years.

The charity has thanked the building’s landlords for their generosity and support since the store opened there in November 2011.

The Bridge Street premises hold a special place in Haverfordwest’s

history, having once been home to the Sartori café and, before that, The Moon and Sixpence shop in historic Swan Square, overlooking the Old Bridge, which dates back to 1726.

The same friendly retail team will move to the new Snowdrop Lane store, where the charity plans to create a more community-focused space.

Plans include guest sellers, community group sessions and special events, making the store a hub for local people as well as a retail outlet.

The Foundation’s existing Snowdrop Lane premises will be

converted into a central warehouse and donation drop-off point, helping staff and volunteers manage the large volume of donations received from the public.

The site will also include a dedicated mobility centre for larger second-hand mobility aids, including scooters, which are in high demand across Pembrokeshire.

Julia Brady, Head of Retail at the Paul Sartori Foundation, said: “This is a truly exciting step forward for our retail team and for the communities we support.

“Our new Snowdrop Lane store will give us the space to grow, to offer an even wider and more inspiring range of goods, and to create a welcoming environment where people feel part of something bigger.

“Every visit, every donation, and every purchase helps us continue delivering our free hospice at home care across Pembrokeshire, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to be part of this next chapter.”

Customers and supporters will be invited to a closing down sale at the Bridge Street store, with details to be announced once a moving date has been confirmed.

The Foundation is also preparing to recruit new volunteers to join its retail team ahead of the move.

Norwegian shipwreck inspires new art exhibition

A noRWegiAn vessel wrecked off the Pembrokeshire coast more than a century ago has inspired a new art exhibition at the Torch Theatre.

Professional artist Warren Heaton, from Pembrokeshire, will exhibit his paintings at the Joanna Field Gallery this June in a show titled Ragna –the link that connects two coastal communities.

The exhibition tells the story of the Norwegian vessel Ragna, which was wrecked at Aberfelin in 1900, and the dramatic rescue carried out by villagers from Trefin.

Warren, who has a gallery and studio in Solva, said the idea grew from conversations in the village while he and his wife Helen were living in Trefin.

He said: “My wife and I were living in Trefin when I got talking about the project with Andy and Richard over a pint at the Ship Inn.

“We arranged a small re-enactment down at Aberfelin. The villagers all dressed up and posed for me to photograph, and then paint. That’s where it all started.”

Warren and Helen, who live in Llangwm, have strong links to the

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sea. Helen has recently completed a row across the Atlantic, and maritime history and coastal communities are central themes in Warren’s work.

He added: “We’re trying to take the exhibition all over Pembrokeshire and eventually to Cardiff and maybe even Norway.

“So far it’s been to St Davids, Fishguard and Trefin Museum, but to take it to Norway would be amazing, as that is where the Ragna originated from.”

The Ragna Art Exhibition – the link that connected two coastal communities features paintings by Warren Heaton, interpretation panels by Richard Cotton and sound design by Andy Wheddon. It also features Mari-Anne Maddocks and Eleanor Bennett.

The exhibition can be seen at the Joanna Field Gallery, Torch Theatre, from Wednesday (Jun 3) to Monday, June 29, during Box Office opening hours.

For further information visit torchtheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01646 695267.

Sageston 76-metre tall wind turbine set to be refused

A CALL for a five month breathing space for a wind turbine application which was previously withdrawn late last year over a lack of information on how it may affect bats, is expected to be turned down and the scheme refused.

In December of last year, in an application recommended for refusal at Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Constantine Wind Energy Ltd sought permission for a 76-metre-high wind turbine at Summerton Farm, Sageston.

Back in 2024, an application to replace a current 60.5m high turbine on the site with one up to 90 metres, or just under 300 foot, at the site was refused on the grounds its height and scale would have a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the locality, with the additional clause of failing to comply with supplementary guidance.

A report for committee members on the latest application says the smaller turbine than previously proposed, representing a 16-metre increase in height from a previously granted turbine “would not be sufficient for it to become an overbearing feature in the landscape,” with no objections from either the Council Landscape Officer or Natural Resources Wales.

However, concerns were raised by

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the council ecologist that the applicant’s Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report was incomplete, with a bat survey not included.

It was recommended for refusal on the grounds that appraisal report, and technical note, “do not adequately address the impact of the proposed wind turbine on bat activity in the area”.

At the December meeting, members heard the scheme had been temporarily withdrawn to deal with issues raised, the application now returning to the

June meeting, again recommended for refusal.

A report for members ahead of the June meeting says the application was withdrawn from the December agenda to allow the applicant time for consideration of the Council Ecologist’s request for further survey work.

“Further consultation took place with Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the result being that NRW agree with the Council Ecologist’s stance that additional survey work is required.

“The applicant has submitted a request for a further deferral of the application to allow the necessary

surveys to be carried out. The bat survey programme requires surveys over Spring, Summer and Autumn. The Spring survey was completed on May 14 and the Spring and Summer surveys will take place on July 14 and September 7 respectively.

“The applicant expects a report to be issued to the council for consultation before the end of September, with consultation with NRW and the council ecologist expected to be completed during October 2026.

“On the assumption that the proposal is considered acceptable the applicant expects that the application could be considered at the November 2026 planning committee meeting.

“Accordingly, the applicant requests deferral of the application to the November 2026 planning committee meeting to avoid the unnecessary costs, resources and timelines for a resubmitted application.”

The application is recommended to be refused at the June meeting of Pembrokeshire County council’s planning committee on the basis that “the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Report and Technical Note do not adequately address the impact of the proposed wind turbine on bat activity in the area. As such, therefore, the proposal is contrary to the requirements [of planning policy].”

National Trust Pembrokeshire Gupton Farm approval expected

PlAnS to diversify a national Trust campsite on the Pembrokeshire coast, with seasonal siting for campervans and ‘landpods’ are expected to be approved by the national park.

In an application recommended for delegated approval at the June meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s development management committee, the National Trust seeks permission for a change of use of land for camping, the seasonal siting of five ‘landpods’ and 20 campervans and associated works at Gupton Farm, near Freshwater West.

The application is before the committee rather than being decided by planning officers as it is an application recommended for approval which is a departure from the adopted Local Development Plan 2.

An officer report recommending approval says the site currently operates as an established seasonal campsite under a National Trust exemption certificate.

“The existing campsite has operated for approximately 10 years and currently accommodates seasonal tent camping and a limited number of campervan pitches utilising existing site infrastructure including shower and toilet facilities, sewage treatment infrastructure, access tracks and parking areas.

“The proposal seeks to formalise and

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diversify the existing operation by allowing greater flexibility in accommodation type and pitch management whilst maintaining the existing overall site capacity of a maximum of 100 people and 50 pitches per night.”

It adds: “The submitted information confirms that the proposal does not seek to increase overall occupancy levels at the site but instead proposes a redistribution of accommodation types through increased campervan provision and the introduction of seasonal landpods. The landpods are proposed as free-standing seasonal structures with no permanent drainage or utility connections and would be removed from the site during December, January and February.”

It says that, while the scheme represents a departure from planning policy “due to the sensitive coastal landscape location,” officers consider “that the seasonal nature of the proposal, the established exempted camping use, the absence of any increase in overall site capacity, the landscape-led design approach and the significant biodiversity and visitor management benefits weigh in favour of the proposal”.

The report adds an original preapplication proposal conflicted in part [with policies] “due to the scale and sensitivity of the site location,” officers advising there could be scope to support “a reduced-scale, clearly seasonal proposal where robust landscape mitigation, ecological enhancement and visitor management justification could be demonstrated”.

It said the submitted application sought to address those concerns; the scheme which incorporates “significant landscape and biodiversity enhancement measures” is “specifically designed as a seasonal and reversible form of development, with the Landpods

removed from the site outside the operational season and stored within an existing onsite barn”.

The report later says: “On balance, it is considered that the proposal would not result in unacceptable harm to the special qualities of the National Park and that the material considerations in favour of the proposal outweigh the identified policy tensions in this instance. The principle of the development is therefore considered acceptable subject to appropriate planning conditions.” It is recommended to delegate conditional approval to officers following the end of a public advertisement period for a policy departure.

Coeduno launches free Eco-Land workshops ahead of Volunteer Week

To CelebRATe national volunteers’ Week from June 1-7, local community enterprise Cwm Arian is inviting people to help transform their Coeduno site, which is an exciting community growing and agroforestry space nestled in Tegryn.

Thanks to a financial Community Grant from the Woodland Investment Grant (TWIG)- delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with the National Forest for Wales programme – these free, hands-on sessions will run every Tuesday morning for the next few months.

The project offers a unique opportunity to step out into nature, connect with a friendly team, and learn practical, regenerative land skills directly from an industry expert. All sessions are guided by volunteer coordinator Kevin Rabbitt, an experienced horticulturist, woodsman, and agroecology advisor.

Under Kevin’s expert guidance, participants will gain rich, practical experience in everything from tree planting and plant species identification to mastering composting systems and nurturing soil health. Volunteers can also delve into traditional woodland crafts and broader regenerative land management.

Because the team wants these sessions to be shaped by the people who attend, volunteers are encouraged to share their own ideas and focus on the specific skills that interest them most. No

prior experience is necessary, and a supportive, welcoming environment is guaranteed for everyone.

This collaborative effort comes at a pivotal time for CoedUNO, as work is actively underway to transform the site into a fully inclusive and accessible space. The project has already made fantastic progress with the completion of new, mobility-friendly pathways.

The next phase of development will bring a dedicated tool-shed shelter, a disability-friendly compost toilet, and significantly improved vehicle access.

Since active construction is taking place to upgrade this infrastructure, CoedUNO remains closed to the general public for safety reasons. Joining these supervised Tuesday sessions is currently the only way to experience the space and witness its transformation first-hand before the official public opening later this summer.

The sessions begin promptly at 10:00 am every Tuesday morning, with volunteers meeting in front of Ysgol Clyda in Tegryn (SA35 0BE), where convenient roadside parking is available. Due to the ongoing building works, organisers ask that participants approach the site with care and observe all safety signage.

To book a place, share project ideas, or find out more, please contact Kevin Rabbitt directly at kevin@ cwmarian.org.uk.

Craft Festival Wales Returns to Cardigan Castle

folloWing the overwhelming success of Craft festival Wales 2025, which welcomed over 4,000 visitors from across Wales, the uk and overseas, Craft festival Wales will return to Cardigan Castle from 11–13 September 2026.

Craft Festival has quickly become a major cultural highlight for Ceredigion, celebrating world-class craft, creativity and community in one of Wales’s most iconic heritage locations.

Sarah James MBE, Founder and Director says: “‘I am so thrilled that Craft Festival Wales is returning to Cardigan Castle in September. It represents a year of planning, working across a wide range of organisations to benefit as many people as possible. The people of Cardigan has welcomed Craft Festival with open arms and I cannot wait’.

New for 2026 is an exhibition, Aur/ Gold, in partnership with the National Eisteddfod, celebrating past Gold Medal winners from Y Lle Celf. Hosted at Canfas Gallery, opening on August 1st, timed to coincide with the National Eisteddfod taking place just outside Cardigan.

Craft Festival Wales 2026 will once again showcase over 100 exceptional makers, carefully selected

Cerys Lafferty cerys@herlad.email

by an independent panel for the quality, originality and making of their work. Visitors can explore textiles, ceramics, glass, wood, metal, jewellery and more, all sustainably handmade and deeply rooted in skill, tradition and innovation.

Across Cardigan Castle, Craft Festival will feature workshops, demonstrations, The Capital of Craft talks, live music, new commissions, theatre and free children’s activities in partnership with local cultural organisations. Building on 2025’s success, the Craft Town Trail will return, expanding to more venues and featuring work displayed in windows across Cardigan, deepening links between heritage, place and creativity.

Craft Festival Wales continues to be a catalyst for economic and cultural growth, attracting tourists, supporting small creative businesses and providing a platform for emerging makers through awards, commissions, training and professional development including Preparing to Sell workshops and partnerships with Futureworks, Novus and QEST supporting young people and prison learners.

Ben Lake MP/AS, Ceredigion Penfro said: “The festival plays a significant role in fostering connections within the craft community while also enabling artists to reach new customers and markets, opening doors for future opportunities. The diversity of work on display, from ceramics and textiles to metalwork and woodcraft, demonstrates the rich tapestry of artistic talent we have in Wales, and it’s

through events like this that such talent is nurtured and celebrated.”

Craft Festival Wales is proudly supported by Event Wales (Welsh Government) and local publicly and privately funded business partners. With its focus on quality, community engagement and Welsh culture, it is now firmly established as an annual flagship event.

Fire service leads Wales in dignity campaign for men with incontinence

Mid and West Wales fire and Rescue Service has become the first fire service in Wales to install specially designed sanitary bins for men with incontinence.

The service has installed 26 male incontinence bins across 22 sites as part of the Dispose with Dignity initiative, led by phs Group and Prostate Cancer UK.

The scheme supports men who experience bladder leaks, including those who have undergone life-saving treatment for prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with one in eight men expected to develop the disease. The

risk doubles to one in four for Black men. Urinary incontinence can be a side effect of treatment, including radical prostatectomy surgery.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service employs 1,420 people, 81 per cent of whom are men.

The organisation has now achieved the Gold level of The BOG STANDARD Charter, which recognises employers and organisations that install suitable disposal facilities, provide support, and

help raise awareness of prostate cancer and incontinence.

Kelsey Tiffin, from the service’s estates department, said: “Like many employers, we didn’t know this was an issue that affected so many men, but as soon as we became aware, we wanted to take action to support our team.

“We want to ensure that all the men at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue can feel confident to come to work, knowing they will have the facilities they need to dispose of their incontinence pads.

“Talking about bladder leaks is never easy, but it’s so important for us to do

this and reduce the stigma associated with it, because prostate cancer is so prevalent.

“We really hope having the bins will raise awareness of prostate cancer, as well as being a good reminder for men on our team to get their PSA checked at the GP sooner rather than later.”

More than 2,170 businesses and organisations across the UK have signed up to The BOG STANDARD, with more than 21,700 specially designed bins installed since the campaign launched in February 2023.

Matthew Brabin, chief executive of phs Group, said too many men were avoiding work, social events and everyday activities because suitable facilities were not available.

He said: “Whether it’s going to work, a conference, to their local sports club or even to the local for a pint, when there are no sanitary bins, men with incontinence are staying at home, when they should be with us.

“This is what our Dispose with Dignity initiative is trying to change, and we’re so pleased to see Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue join the fight by signing up to The BOG STANDARD Charter.”

Nick Ridgman, Head of Support Services at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Many men need sanitary bins so they can dispose of their used pads discreetly and hygienically — but often these bins are nowhere to be found in men’s loos.

“It’s causing men stress and shame, and keeping them from going to work and doing the things they love.

“Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue is making the organisation more welcoming and accessible for every employee, and we hope other organisations will follow.”

Anyone concerned about prostate cancer can contact Prostate Cancer UK’s Specialist Nurses on 0800 074 8383 or visit prostatecanceruk.org.

Tenby Freemasons help fund new therapy couch for HOPE MS Centre

Tenby freemasons have donated £1,079 to the HoPe MS Therapy Centre in neyland to fund the purchase of a new therapy couch.

The centre, which has been operating for 40 years, is the only facility of its kind in West Wales and supports patients from Pembrokeshire and beyond.

It provides physical therapy and oxygen therapy for people living with multiple sclerosis, as well as those with other physical conditions and injuries.

The donation followed a request from a Tenby Lodge member involved with the Parkinson’s UK group at Tiers Cross, who became aware of the centre’s need for a new couch after helping take Parkinson’s patients there for therapy.

The matter was raised at a Tenby Lodge meeting, where members

quickly agreed to provide the full funding needed.

The new electrically operated couch allows assisted movement of patients directly from a wheelchair when required.

HOPE chairman and lead therapist

Simon Wright said: “Following the withdrawal of funding support in recent years it has become increasingly challenging to finance the purchase of new equipment, so we are reliant on organisations like Tenby Freemasons and can’t thank them enough for their generous donation.”

Tenby Lodge charity steward

Steve Thurgood said: “I’ve seen first hand the important treatment provided at the HOPE MS Centre and the welcome relief it brings to sufferers, so we are delighted to make a contribution to this facility that offers a valuable service to the community.”

Grant funding secured to restore Pembrokeshire’s last surviving ty unnos

PeMbRokeSHiRe’S last surviving tŷ unnos is set to undergo essential repairs after the county council’s Museum Service secured a £20,000 grant.

Penrhos Cottage, near Llanycefn, Maenclochog, is a rare surviving example of an overnight cottage — a type of building deeply rooted in Welsh cultural history.

Tŷ unnos were traditionally said to have been built on common land between sunset and sunrise, often with the support of the local community, to provide shelter for those in need.

The grant from the Pilgrim Trust will fund specialist conservation work on the exterior of the historic cottage, including repairs to the traditional thatched roof, restoration of lime mortar walls, limewashing, and improvements to the immediate surroundings.

The first phase of work is expected to begin in June.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “This is great news for Penrhos Cottage and the wider county, adding to the historical and cultural offer provided by the Museum Service of Pembrokeshire County Council.

“This is an important project and hopefully an important step towards opening the cottage in the future.”

Cllr Simon Wright, who represents the Maenclochog ward, said: “The grant from the Pilgrim Trust is a fantastic amount to receive for the much-needed improvements to Penrhos Cottage.

“The Maenclochog Community

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Council has fought long and hard to access funds along with the Friends of Penrhos. They will be extremely happy to hear the good news and eager to see the works start.

“It is just a start also, as more grant aid will be needed, and I look forward to working with Maenclochog Community Council and the county council to secure those funds.”

Built in the early 1800s on the edge of moorland in the Maenclochog area, Penrhos Cottage was first intended as a modest dwelling and was later rebuilt in more durable materials.

It remained a family home until 1968 before being acquired by the local authority and opened as a museum in the early 1970s.

In recent years, financial pressures have made it increasingly difficult to maintain the building and operate it as a museum. In response, the Museum Service began working with the local community in 2023 to explore new ways of managing and sustaining the site.

The restoration project, called Hidden Gem: Penrhos Cottage: restoring Pembrokeshire’s last surviving tŷ unnos, aims to secure the future of the building while developing it as a valued museum and community asset.

The Museum Service is working with Maenclochog Community Council and the Friends of Penrhos Cottage group to support the long-term care, presentation and reopening of the

only vital for historical integrity, but also for the education and inspiration of future generations.

“Bwthyn Penrhos has the potential to become a vital community resource, creating opportunities for volunteering, partnership and shared learning.”

The work marks the first stage of a wider vision for Penrhos Cottage. Future phases, subject to funding, could include restoring the interior to reflect early 20th century life and reinstating the original cottage garden.

The long-term aim is for the cottage to open more regularly to visitors, supported by local volunteers, while remaining under the overall management of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Museum Service.

Local historian and author Hefin Wyn also welcomed the work.

site.

Peter Nicholas, of Friends of Penrhos, said: “I am delighted that funding has finally been secured to allow these essential repairs to be carried out at Penrhos Cottage.

“This crucial work will help safeguard the future of this iconic, traditionally built thatched cottage, ensuring it can continue to be enjoyed and appreciated by future generations.”

Maenclochog Community Council said Bwthyn Penrhos was one of north Pembrokeshire’s hidden gems, offering an irreplaceable window into the past.

A spokesperson added: “We are thrilled that urgent expert repairs are now underway. Its preservation is not

He said: “Penrhos Cottage is very much an iconic part of the area’s heritage. Its presence, with its whitewashed walls, its thatched roof, its furniture and hearth, have been kept as they were when the last occupants lived there, thus reminding us of our history.

“It all reminds us of a way of life familiar to our forefathers.

“Indeed, some of the older generation still remember John Williams, Penrhos, and his family and will gladly relate the stories. As a result, Penrhos represents a visible link with our past.

“Poets and authors such as E. Llwyd Williams and Derfel Rees have heralded its distinctiveness.

“From the point of view of heritage, we are keen to preserve the cottage as it was, to be handed on to future generations, as testimony of what once was.”

Farming by the weather, not the calendar

foR years, Welsh farmers have said the winter muck-spreading ban was too blunt, too rigid and too far removed from the reality of farming.

Now, the new Welsh environment minister appears to agree with them.

Llyr Gruffydd MS, Plaid Cymru’s Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, has said the current ban on spreading slurry from mid-October to January “doesn’t work” and will be changed.

That is a significant moment.

The rules were introduced to

protect rivers from agricultural pollution. Slurry, if it reaches waterways, can do serious damage. It can fuel algal blooms, reduce oxygen levels and harm fish and wildlife. Nobody serious about the countryside should dismiss that problem.

But neither should anyone pretend that a fixed calendar ban is always the answer.

Farmers have long argued that the weather, soil conditions and local circumstances matter more than an arbitrary date. A dry spell

in November may be safer than a saturated field in February. Farming by calendar may be administratively tidy, but nature does not work to government timetables.

Gruffydd’s point is simple: if you want to know whether it is suitable to spread slurry, you look out of the window, not just at the calendar. Technology, better monitoring, weather data and practical judgement could allow for a more flexible system while still protecting rivers.

That is where the climate debate

in Wales needs to go.

Too often, farming and environmental protection are presented as enemies. They are not. Farmers depend on clean water, healthy soils and stable weather. Rural Wales is not separate from the climate challenge; it is on the front line of it.

At the same time, environmental rules must be credible. If they are seen as unfair, unworkable or imposed by people with little understanding of the land, they lose support.

Plaid Cymru’s new government says it wants Wales to reach net zero by 2040, ten years ahead of the rest of the UK. That is an ambitious target. It will not be achieved by slogans. It will require trust, investment and policies that work in the real world.

Changing the slurry rules could be an early test.

River campaigners are right to demand action on pollution. Farmers are right to demand rules that reflect reality. The challenge for the new minister is to prove that Wales can have both.

A smarter system must not mean a weaker one. Flexibility must come with responsibility. Technology must support enforcement, not provide an excuse for delay.

But if Wales is serious about climate, nature and rural resilience, it needs policies that bring people with them.

The old argument was farmers versus rivers. The better argument is how to protect both.

BADGER AND THE COCK-UP THEORY OF EVERYTHING

bAdgeR has often observed that the cock-up theory trumps conspiratorial theories every time.

Recent events have proved him right.

Consider the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to Washington DC. It was a stupid choice made by monumentally stupid people who somehow convinced themselves that the so-called “Prince of Darkness” had miraculously changed his ways late in life. The nickname is a big clue there, readers.

Similarly, the ongoing speculation about what Nicola Sturgeon knew about her husband’s dishonesty ignores the possibility that she is, in fact, as dense and unobservant as her explanation of events makes her seem. That possibility seems all the more probable when you consider the toxicity of one line of her defence: that, as a legate of the downtrodden and disadvantaged, she and her husband were so loaded that she did not notice his profligate spending. And of course, the motor home parked on her mother-in-law’s drive was concealed by the 108 rolls of bog roll Peter Murrell bought just before a ministerial broadcast in which Ms Sturgeon warned the public against hoarding and panic buying.

Coincidence is not, readers, correlation; still less is it proof of anything untoward.

Nicola Sturgeon has eager defenders among those who think that any criticism of a woman is evidence of misogyny. Badger notes that criticism and rejects it.

The former Scottish First Minister’s backing of the Scottish Government’s Gender Recognition Act proves her feminist credentials. Nobody, apart from someone well aware of how the Act would backfire catastrophically and preserve women’s rights to spaces that respected their biological sex, would have had the Machiavellian wit to spend so much political capital on passing it.

Badger has concluded that Ms Sturgeon was incredibly lucky to

have such weak opposition, both in Scotland and in the UK government. Her principal appeal, rather like Mark Drakeford’s in Wales, was that she was not Boris Johnson. For some, that she is not a Tory was, and remains, enough to induce uncritical adoration.

The cock-up theory remains true even at the baser levels of politics, including Pembrokeshire County Council. Badger quite likes Cllr Aaron Carey. One of the treats of the last elections was trying to fit the short, rotund Cllr Carey into the same frame as the taller, thinner Cllr Jonathan Grimes. However, if Cllr Carey is such a good choice for the Cabinet now, you have to wonder why he was not invited to join it when he was still a member of the Conservative Group.

Badger will take some convincing that Cllr Carey’s political views have changed very much in the last four years, still less that he resiles from the criticism he and other members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Conservatives once levelled at the current administration.

surprising than Aaron Carey’s change from apostate to apostle. Then, and Badger feels compelled to comment, we come to the case of Cllr Allan Dennison, who was recently suspended for four months (handily, over the summer holidays) for signing a form on behalf of his fellow councillor, Terry Davies. There are two ways of looking at this: one is that the affair proves the “they’re all in it for themselves/ brown envelopes” line; the other is that Cllr Dennison made an error of judgment despite being warned off by the Council’s Monitoring Officer.

Some of the more demented Looney Tunes from the Provisional Wing of the Pembrokeshire Patriotic Militia (motto: “We’re not racists, we eat doner kebabs”) are convinced that Cllr Dennison would have got away with it if he were one of those pesky lefty liberals who roam County Hall, preying on right-of-centre councillors.

To which Badger says: “Knickers!”

Badger’s faith in human nature

is such that he instinctively prefers the notion that Cllr Dennison was too stubborn and too convinced he was right to hear the jungle drums signalling his doom and pressed on, believing he had done nothing untoward.

Approach things forensically and disinterestedly, and the horrible truth emerges: politicians are as human, fallible, and daft as the rest of us.

Self-belief is part and parcel of being an effective politician.

Politics doesn’t attract geniuses or, in Nye Bevan’s phrase, “dessicated calculating machines”. It does attract those with confidence and an abiding belief that they’re on the right side of any argument. The downside of confidence is overconfidence, which in turn leads to recklessness.

Peter Mandelson is consumed by self-regard to the extent that were he made of chocolate, he’d eat himself. Nicola Sturgeon has the same qualities as the former ambassador - smart, lucid, tactical, ruthless - and the same failingsself-belief bordering on self-deceit. Cllr Dennison has never struck Badger as someone less than certain that he is not only of the Right but in the right.

Genuine contrition, whether by a former ambassador, ex-First Minister, or local councillor, requires acknowledgement of the original fault that gave rise to the need for it (or its appearance). Fat chance of that, readers.

Neither Peter Mandelson nor Nicola Sturgeon will ever again hold a public office that requires voters to cast their ballots for them. Cllr Dennison is due to face his electors next year.

Here’s the thing, readers, he’s the lucky one. If the voters don’t vote for him, he’ll have lost very little - he doesn’t rely on his remuneration as a councillor to make ends meet. If he stands and wins, it will show that the public is uninterested in breaches of the Code of Conduct.

For the other two, the court of public opinion, fairly or not, has already delivered a verdict.

Warning as algal blooms mistaken for sewage on Welsh coast

beACHgoeRS urged to avoid contact with suspicious foam and report pollution concerns NATURAL RESOURCES WALES has issued summer advice to beachgoers after warning that algal blooms along the coast can often be mistaken for sewage pollution.

The environmental body said it regularly receives reports at this time of year from members of the public concerned about suspected sewage discharges at coastal locations.

However, some of those reports turn out to be the breakdown of algal blooms — a natural seasonal event which becomes more common during warmer, sunnier weather.

The warning is particularly relevant to Pembrokeshire, where thousands of residents and visitors are expected to use beaches, coastal paths and bathing waters over the coming weeks.

Algal blooms usually occur between April and August and can appear as discoloured water, surface scum, foam or long streaks running parallel to the coastline.

NRW said long lines of algal foam can often be seen off headlands, while rough conditions can create thick mats of foam along the shoreline.

But officials have stressed that

such as a pipe or outfall, where the discolouration is strongest.

is more sun.

“It can be difficult to tell the difference between algal blooms and sewage, but there are some key signs that can help.”

NRW is advising the public not to touch algal blooms in the sea, lakes or rivers, as some can be toxic.

Dog owners are also being urged to take care, particularly if animals are likely to drink from or swim in affected water.

Anyone who believes they have seen pollution which is not algae should report it to NRW’s incident line on 03000 65 3000 or online.

The advice comes as Wales enters the busy summer bathing season, with coastal water quality and sewage discharges continuing to be a major public concern.

people should not dismiss all suspicious water conditions as natural.

Storm overflows and sewage discharges can also affect coastal waters, particularly after heavy rain, and members of the public are being urged to report anything they believe may be pollution.

NRW said stormwater overflows tend to cause grey discolouration in the water and often have a visible source,

Sewage discharges may also contain fats or oils, causing waves to flatten around the affected area, and can sometimes attract flocks of seabirds.

A spokesperson for Natural Resources Wales said: “At this time of year, we often receive reports of suspected sewage pollution along the coast — and these reports can turn out to be the breakdown of algal blooms.

“Coastal algal blooms often become more obvious over the summer months when the weather is warmer and there

Pembrokeshire’s beaches are among the county’s most important assets, attracting swimmers, surfers, paddleboarders, walkers and tourists throughout the summer.

NRW said reports from the public remain important and help officers assess potential pollution incidents.

The public is advised to note the location, time, appearance, smell, possible source and, where safe, take photographs or video when reporting suspected pollution.

Charles Street to come alive for Milford Haven Founders Day

until 4:00pm, with a programme of free family entertainment including bouncy castles, face painting, local stalls, community groups, activities for all ages and live entertainment organised by the Boulevard Theatre.

The day’s celebrations will also be professionally photographed by Captured Soul Photography.

Founders Day gives residents and visitors the chance to come together to celebrate Milford Haven’s past while supporting the businesses, organisations and community groups that continue to make the town a vibrant place today.

To allow the event to take place safely, a road closure will be in force from the junction of Francis Street to Dartmouth Street between 10:00am and 5:00pm. Once the closure is in place, Charles Street will become a pedestrian-only zone.

Medical and event safety cover throughout the day will be provided by Pegasus Ambulance Service.

Milford Haven Business Circle has thanked Milford Haven Town Council, Taste of Haven, PATCH, Tesco Milford Haven, Ambulance Friends, The Ascona Group and Green Light Traffic Management for their support in helping make this year’s event possible.

Business Circle members supporting the event include Cast N Craft Fishing for Health, Pegasus Ambulance Service, Elizabeth Christie Bridal Wear, Taste of Haven, Phoenix Yarns, Phoenix Bowl, Alf Seren Collectables, Granby’s, Captured Soul Photography, Moon Goddess Emporium and Milford Haven Town Council.

Everyone is welcome to attend and entry is free.

gaming

feW games from the early Cd-RoM era carry the same strange aura as The 7th guest, and the remake manages to capture that eerie identity while modernising just enough of the experience to make it feel relevant again. Rather than trying to completely reinvent the original, the remake leans heavily into its gothic atmosphere, bizarre dream logic, and theatrical horror, creating an experience that feels like stepping into an interactive haunted house where every room hides another unsettling mystery. The mansion itself remains the true star of the game, dripping with oppressive ambience, creaking corridors, flickering shadows, and an ever-present sense that something terrible happened long before the player arrived. The remake’s visuals elevate that feeling dramatically, replacing the limitations of the original fMv presentation with richly detailed environments and far more immersive cinematic sequences that still retain the campy charm fans remember.

What makes the game stand out most is how confidently it embraces its old-school identity. Modern horror games often rely on jump scares, relentless chase sequences, or excessive violence, but this remake builds tension through mood and curiosity instead. Exploring the mansion becomes genuinely absorbing because every puzzle solved reveals another fragment of the twisted history surrounding Henry Stauf and his unfortunate guests. The storytelling is melodramatic and occasionally overacted, but that theatrical style becomes

part of the appeal rather than a weakness. The game understands that it is supposed to feel uncanny and slightly surreal, almost like an interactive ghost story told around a candlelit table.

The puzzles are where opinions will likely divide the most. Some are brilliantly creative and deeply satisfying, demanding careful observation and lateral thinking, while others drift dangerously close to frustration. Still, the remake does a far better job balancing challenge and accessibility than many classic puzzle adventures ever managed. There is a strong sense of accomplishment when solutions finally click into place, and the variety keeps the pacing fresh throughout the experience. One moment you are deciphering visual clues hidden within paintings, the next you are manipulating strange mechanisms or piecing together abstract logic problems. The best puzzles feel naturally connected to the mansion and its inhabitants, strengthening immersion instead of interrupting it.

The sound design deserves enormous praise as well. The mansion constantly groans and whispers around the player, while the soundtrack carefully

blends nostalgia with modern horror sensibilities. Music rises and fades at exactly the right moments, adding unease without overwhelming the quieter scenes. Combined with the atmospheric lighting and haunting environmental effects, the remake often feels genuinely hypnotic. Even when little is happening, simply wandering the halls can feel tense because the game maintains such a thick sense of dread.

What ultimately makes the remake successful is that it respects the spirit of the original without becoming trapped by nostalgia. It understands why people loved the original game in the first place: not because it was flawless, but because it felt unique, experimental, and deeply atmospheric. The remake preserves that identity while smoothing away many of the rough edges that made older adventure games difficult for modern audiences to revisit. It is not perfect, and a handful of puzzles and technical hiccups can interrupt the flow, but when the game is at its best it delivers a wonderfully creepy blend of mystery, horror, and puzzle-solving that very few games attempt anymore.

Scary Movie 6 is exactly the kind of big-screen comedy that feels increasingly rare in modern cinemas: loud, unapologetically silly, and completely unconcerned with subtlety. Reuniting Anna Faris, Regina Hall, Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans for the first time in years, the film embraces the chaotic energy that made the original movies such cult favourites while updating its targets for a new generation of horror fans. Rather than relying solely on nostalgia, it takes aim at contemporary genre hits, modern horror trends, legacy sequels, elevated horror, reboot culture and just about every popular scare franchise it can squeeze into its running time.

What works best is the

chemistry between the returning cast members. Faris and Hall slip effortlessly back into their iconic roles, delivering the kind of absurd reactions and perfectly timed one-liners that fans have missed. Their performances anchor the madness, allowing even the most ridiculous gags to land. The film moves at a relentless pace, throwing joke after joke at the audience, and while not every punchline connects, enough of them do to keep the laughter flowing throughout the screening.

The humour is deliberately outrageous and often pushes far beyond the boundaries of good taste, which has always been part of the franchise’s identity. Some viewers will appreciate the return to the anything-goes parody style

of the early 2000s, while others may find certain jokes dated or overly crude. The film is at its strongest when spoofing modern horror conventions, cleverly exaggerating familiar tropes and poking fun at the increasingly self-serious nature of the genre.

Visually, the movie looks bigger and more polished than many expected from a parody sequel, with surprisingly slick production values that help sell the ridiculous scenarios. The theatrical experience also adds to the enjoyment, as many of the film’s biggest laughs benefit from being shared with a crowd. There is a contagious energy to hearing an entire cinema react to the escalating insanity unfolding on screen.

Ultimately, Scary Movie 6 succeeds because it understands exactly what audiences want from the franchise. It is not trying to reinvent comedy, deliver sophisticated satire or become a prestige horror spoof. Instead, it aims to make viewers laugh through sheer absurdity, and for the most part it succeeds. Fans of the original films will likely leave with a smile on their faces, while newcomers willing to embrace its deliberately juvenile sense of humour should find plenty to enjoy. It is a welcome return for one of cinema’s most recognisable parody series and a reminder that sometimes a film’s only job is to entertain.

Tech and Taff

Google’s AI has eaten the news and now wants a doggy bag

THeRe we are then. google, the great all-seeing oracle of the internet, has finally been told it cannot simply wander into the newsroom, pinch the biscuits, read everyone’s notes, and then stand outside selling “barry’s Helpful Summary of What everyone else did”.

About time too, mun.

This week, the Competition and Markets Authority said publishers in the UK will be able to opt out of Google’s AI Overviews — those little machine-written answers that now appear at the top of search results, looking terribly clever while quietly standing on the shoulders of people who still have to pay rent.

For readers, it looks tidy. Ask Google a question, and up pops an answer.

For publishers, it feels more like watching a seagull nick your chips, chew them badly, and then ask you for vinegar.

The problem is simple. Reporters do the work. They go to court. They ring the council. They sit through planning meetings so dull they could be prescribed on the NHS. They read the PDFs nobody else can face. They check the spelling of Welsh place names while half the internet is still calling it “Lanfair-whatever”.

Then Google’s AI comes along, hoovers up the lot, and says: “No need to click, cariad. I’ve got the gist.”

No click means no reader. No reader means no advert. No advert means no money. No money means fewer reporters. And fewer reporters means the next time the council buries something important on page 143 of an agenda, nobody sees it except the printer and one retired man in Narberth with a highlighter.

The CMA says this new rule should give publishers more bargaining power. In normal Welsh, that means Google may have to stop treating newsrooms like an all-youcan-eat buffet where the bill is paid in exposure.

Google says publishers who opt out of AI Overviews will not be punished in ordinary search results.

That is important. Very important. Because otherwise it would be like telling Dai the doorman you do not want to come into his nightclub, only for Dai to reply: “Fine, but you’re barred from the chippy as well.”

The CMA also wants Google to properly credit publishers and provide clear links when their work appears in AI answers. This should not be revolutionary. It is basic manners. Even my old IT students at Cardiff knew you had to cite your sources, and one of them once tried to submit a dissertation copied from Wikipedia with the blue hyperlinks still in it.

But this is big tech, see. Basic manners must first pass through a policy team, a regulatory framework,

three vice-presidents, a blog post, and a man in California wearing a gilet indoors.

For nearly thirty years, publishers had a rough deal with Google, but at least everyone understood it. Google indexed our work, and in return sent people to our websites.

It was not perfect, but it was a sort of bargain.

AI Overviews change the bargain. Now Google can use the work, answer the question, keep the reader, sell the advert, and still look wounded when publishers complain.

It is the digital equivalent of borrowing your ladder, painting your house, charging admission, and then telling you that you should be grateful for the visibility.

And do not think this only matters to the big London newspapers with glass offices and podcasts called things like The Briefing Room. It matters to local papers more.

When a local journalist reports a road closure in Tenby, a court case in Haverfordwest, a missing person appeal in Pembroke Dock, or a

health board apology after something has gone sideways again, that is not “content”. It is community information.

It is the stuff people actually need.

AI cannot sit in the public gallery at magistrates’ court. It cannot notice the defendant’s solicitor quietly correcting a key detail. It cannot ring the police press office three times because the first answer was as useful as a chocolate teapot. It cannot tell when a council statement says a lot of words but carefully avoids the one thing everyone asked.

A chatbot has never stood outside a village hall in sideways rain waiting for a councillor to say, “I’m not commenting,” which, as every journalist knows, is often the loudest comment of the week.

That is why attribution matters. Links matter. Payment matters. Choice matters.

If Google wants to build shiny AI answers on top of journalism, then it must recognise the journalism underneath. Otherwise, the whole thing collapses like a cheap gazebo at the Pembrokeshire County Show.

Professor Barry’s verdict?

This CMA move is a start. A welcome one. Perhaps even a proper “tidy” one.

But publishers should keep both eyes open. Big tech has a habit of arriving with a smile, a partnership deck, and a promise to “support the ecosystem”, which usually means the ecosystem is about to be put in a jar.

AI is not the enemy. Search is changing, and there is no point pretending otherwise. But if the machine is going to answer the world’s questions, it had better remember who taught it to read.

Because without reporters, photographers, editors, court lists, council agendas, tip-offs, corrections, and the occasional person shouting down the phone, Google’s clever little AI overview would know about as much as a damp router in Tredegar. And between you and me, butt, I’ve met that router.

It was still more polite.

CliCk To

Apple TV+’s Cape Fear is a gripping and deeply unsettling reimagining of a story that has already cast a long shadow over the thriller genre, yet this television adaptation proves there is still plenty of life left in the material. Rather than attempting to simply recreate the tension and shock of the earlier film versions, the series takes advantage of its longer format to explore its characters in far greater depth, resulting in a more layered and psychologically rich experience. What begins as a tale of revenge gradually evolves into a disturbing examination of fear, guilt, obsession and the devastating consequences of past decisions.

Amy Adams is outstanding as Anna Bowden, delivering a performance filled with emotional intelligence and quiet strength. She brings genuine humanity to the role, allowing viewers to connect with the character’s growing sense of dread as the threat against her family intensifies. Patrick Wilson is equally effective, portraying a man whose confidence and certainty steadily erode under mounting pressure. Together they create a believable family dynamic that gives the story real emotional stakes and makes the danger feel all the more immediate.

Javier Bardem’s Max Cady is the series’ most unforgettable element. Rather than relying on constant outbursts or overt menace, Bardem crafts a villain whose calmness can be even more terrifying than violence. His presence hangs over every episode, creating a sense that disaster could strike at any

moment. He is charismatic, intelligent and deeply disturbing, making him one of the most compelling television antagonists in recent memory. The show wisely avoids turning him into a one-dimensional monster, instead presenting a character whose motivations and psychology are explored in unsettling detail.

One of the series’ greatest strengths is its atmosphere. The tension is carefully constructed rather than rushed, with each episode adding another layer of unease. The direction embraces suspense over spectacle, allowing quiet moments, uncomfortable conversations and lingering silences to generate as much anxiety as the more dramatic confrontations. The result is a thriller that frequently leaves viewers on edge, even when very little is happening on the surface. The cinematography complements this approach beautifully, using shadows, empty spaces and striking visual compositions to reinforce the sense of paranoia and impending doom.

The expanded format also allows the supporting characters to feel more substantial than they often do in similar thrillers. Relationships are given room to develop, conflicts feel more authentic and the emotional fallout of events carries greater weight. The series explores how fear affects an entire family rather than focusing solely on the central conflict, which gives the drama additional depth and resonance. Themes of justice, accountability and whether people can ever truly escape their past mistakes are

HOROSCOPES

woven throughout the narrative in a way that feels thoughtful rather than heavy-handed.

That said, the longer running time is not without drawbacks. A handful of subplots feel slightly overstretched, and there are moments in the middle portion of the series where the pace slows more than necessary. Some viewers may find themselves wishing for a tighter structure, particularly if they are expecting a more traditional thriller packed with constant twists and action. However, the slower pace generally serves the story’s psychological focus, and the strong performances ensure that interest rarely fades.

Ultimately, Cape Fear succeeds because it understands that true horror often comes from anticipation rather than shock. It is a stylish, intelligent and emotionally engaging thriller that respects the legacy of the story while confidently establishing its own identity. Powered by exceptional performances, a relentless atmosphere of dread and a thoughtful exploration of its themes, it stands as one of Apple TV+’s most ambitious dramatic productions. While it occasionally lingers longer than necessary, the overall result is a compelling and memorable psychological thriller that rewards patience and leaves a lasting impression long after the final episode ends. For viewers who enjoy characterdriven suspense, morally complex drama and slow-burning tension, Cape Fear is a highly effective adaptation that proves some stories remain powerful no matter how many times they are retold.

LIBRA

and you should make the most of it!

FSome of the things you’ve been searching for are about to land in your lap. This may definitely be a “be careful what you wish for” type of situation, so don’t get too excited too quickly. Keep your celebrations low-key, and if you’re hosting a social event, invite only your inner circle. The changes you’re making in your life should be kept under wraps for the next few days. Wait until the glue that’s keeping everything together dries or else things could fall apart.

SCORPIO Keep a friendly, approachable smile on your face. You need to encourage some withdrawn folks to bring you the idea or solution you’ve been waiting for! If you’ve been feeling limited or held back in any way, this person could be your ticket out of that dead-end street. Social invitations will start pouring in, and don’t be surprised if there are conflicts. Wait a few days before committing to anything. You may have a better offer coming soon.

SAGITTARIUS

Where’s the fire? There is no reason to rush through this day. Whether you’re egged on by your own expectations or by annoying peer pressure, there’s no good reason not to take things slowly. If you have some exciting plans for this evening that’s fine, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about what is going on during the day. Everything and everyone you encounter is worth your full attention. You’re sure to learn something in the course of your day that will enrich you.

CAPRICORN

Talking to a family member may stir up some touchy emotions right now, but it’s always better to get things out in the open than to keep them deep inside, isn’t it? Do a quick inventory of what you have worked on lately in your personal life. What do you want to stop or get rid of? It may be time for a clean sweep. If you keep yourself busy with cleaning, laundry, or other chores around the house, you’ll get a lot done and you’ll feel a lot better.

AQUARIUS Now that you’ve mastered all your tasks, they’ve become somewhat second nature for you. But to others, what you do is

Explore Pembrokeshire after hours with lighthouse tours and bat walks

A SeRieS of special evening events will offer visitors a different way to experience the Pembrokeshire Coast national Park this summer.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is running exclusive after-hours events at Strumble Head Lighthouse and in St Davids, giving people the chance to explore the area’s heritage and wildlife as dusk falls.

Explore the Lighthouse tours will provide rare access to one of the coast’s best-known landmarks at Strumble Head. Led by National Park Authority staff, the small-group tours will begin with a first-hand account

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

of lighthouse life from the current keeper.

A Ranger-led session will then look at the station’s maritime heritage, including the history of nearby shipwrecks, before exploring the lighthouse’s links with the Coast Path, surrounding farmland and the native wildlife that becomes active after dark.

The tours will take place on four Friday evenings this summer: June 19, July 3, July 17 and August 7. Two timed slots will be available each evening, from 5:00pm to 6:30pm and 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

In St Davids, Brilliant Bats will give visitors the chance to discover more about the wildlife that emerges from the nooks and crannies around the city’s iconic cathedral after dark.

Bat detectors will be provided, with guidance from a Park Authority Ranger on how to use them, as well as information about the elusive nocturnal creatures.

The bat walks will take place on Friday, August 14, from 8:15pm to 10:15pm, and Thursday, August 27, from 7:45pm to 9:45pm.

Rachel Perkins, Manager of Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre in St Davids, said: “These events offer a chance to experience familiar

places in a completely different way.

“From stepping inside Strumble Lighthouse and hearing stories from the current keeper, to listening for bats around St Davids Cathedral after dark, each event brings people closer to the landscape, heritage and wildlife of the National Park.”

Booking is essential. Tickets for both Explore the Lighthouse and Brilliant Bats cost £10 per person and can be reserved at www. pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events.

Caption: Enjoy a different way of experiencing the Park this summer with special evening events run by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

Shame on you, nigel Farage

A young man is dead. A family is shattered. A city is on edge. And nigel farage saw a political opportunity.

That is the uncomfortable truth of what happened this week in Southampton.

The violence that followed Henry Nowak’s death must be unequivocally condemned. Nothing justifies turning grief into disorder. No family is comforted by smashed windows or attacks on police, and no serious questions about this tragedy are answered by throwing

bricks. Lawlessness helps no one.

But there is another form of wrong here — the calculated exploitation of private grief for political theatre.

Henry Nowak’s family made one simple, dignified request: do not use their son’s death as political ammunition. They asked for space, not slogans. That should have been enough.

It wasn’t for Nigel Farage.

While emotions were raw and streets already tense, he rose in the House of Commons and chose to

weaponise this tragedy, hammering the phrase “two-tier policing” into an already volatile situation. He knew exactly what he was doing. Farage is no political innocent. He understands how quickly Westminster soundbites become fuel for fury on social media and on the streets.

This was not courage. It was not “speaking for the silent majority.” It was reckless and indecent.

There are legitimate questions to be asked about policing in this country. Many ordinary people, including in

Pembrokeshire, have watched with growing unease as public confidence in even-handed law enforcement has eroded. Those concerns deserve serious, evidence-based debate, not least in cases where the facts appear murky or the official response seems inconsistent.

But those questions must be asked with care, with facts, and with basic human respect for the grieving. They should not be crudely packaged into a campaign slogan and hurled into a situation already thick with anger. Timing and tone matter. Decency matters.

The Prime Minister was right to call this out. When a devastated family explicitly asks politicians to stay out of their private pain, responsible public figures have a duty to listen. Farage chose the opposite path.

Southampton needs calm heads and clear answers, not more division. Henry Nowak’s family need space to mourn in dignity, not to see their son’s name turned into the latest round in a national culture war. The public deserves honesty about what happened... not manufactured fury.

Behind every viral clip and every political point-scoring exercise is a human reality: a young life cut short and a family condemned to carry that loss forever. Politicians who forget that, who treat tragedy as content, betray something fundamental about public service.

A young man has died. His family asked for respect.

Nigel Farage should have given it to them.

Britain, the land where even a briefcase takes ten weeks

noW then, me beauties, i were perched down Milford docks this week, nibblin’ the corner off a chip wrapper and thinkin’ about the state of the country.

Dangerous pastime, that. Gives a gull indigestion.

Keir Starmer came into office squawkin’ about growth, growth, growth. Growth here, growth there, growth everywhere. You’d think Britain were about to take off like a startled herring gull outside Greggs.

Instead, the whole thing appears to have shrivelled up like yesterday’s battered sausage.

The latest Westminster flappin’ nonsense involves Peter Mandelson, government emails, backroom gossip and all the usual humans in suits pretending they know what they’re doing. Most of it, frankly, is the sort of thing even I wouldn’t bother dragging out of a bin.

But buried in the middle of it was

one little sentence that says more about modern Britain than a thousand speeches from the despatch box.

The government wanted a replica ministerial red box made for Donald Trump.

The manufacturer gave a lead time of eight to ten weeks. Squawk.

Eight to ten weeks. For a fancy briefcase.

No wonder we can’t build railways, houses, hospitals or anything else without everyone growing old, falling out, launching a consultation, setting up a working group and then discovering the budget has doubled.

In China, they’d probably make the thing before the email had finished sending. In India, someone would be stitching it while the minister was still choosing the colour. In America, for all their problems, you suspect they could get a personalised briefcase turned around before the next shouting match

on television.

But here? Sorry, minister. We’d love to help. Lead time eight to ten weeks. That, me beauties, is Britain in one sentence.

We are a country that has turned delay into a national characteristic. Everything is difficult. Everything needs a process. Everything has a reason why it cannot be done quickly, cheaply or sensibly.

Need houses? Planning.

Need roads? Consultation.

Need growth? Tax someone. Need a briefcase? See you in August.

Starmer’s government was supposed to be mission-driven. The only mission I can see is the mission to make everything sound serious while not actually doing very much.

Growth was meant to be the big idea. But nearly two years in, can anyone point to one thing that has genuinely made the country feel more confident, more dynamic or more ready to get moving?

From where I’m sitting — usually on a railing near a discarded cone of chips — the country looks stuck.

Britain needs homes. It needs infrastructure. It needs investment. It needs planning reform, energy projects, proper industry, better public services and enough money to defend itself in a world that is looking nastier by the week.

Instead, we get emails, briefings, factions, leadership gossip and the same old Westminster birds flapping around the same old fish guts.

And somewhere in the middle of it all, a red box takes eight to ten weeks.

There are people in government who still talk as though Britain is one clever slogan away from recovery. It isn’t. It needs to rediscover the ability to do things.

Not announce things.

Not review things.

Not consult on things. Do things.

Even us gulls understand that. If I see a chip, I don’t set up a taskforce. I don’t await Treasury approval. I don’t launch a feasibility study into possible potato acquisition.

I swoop.

That is what Britain has forgotten how to do.

Until it remembers, all the speeches about growth will be just more noise on the wind.

And believe me, I know noise on the wind. Squawk.

Dog owners warned their pet may secretly hate being hugged

dog owners are being warned that their pet may not enjoy being hugged, even if they appear to tolerate it.

Behaviour expert Jo Hinds, a COAPEcertified behaviourist and Dynamic Dog Practitioner at Years, says hugging is a very human way of showing affection, but it is not always natural or comfortable for dogs.

She said: “Some dogs learn to tolerate hugs because they trust their owner, but tolerance is not the same as enjoyment.

“If a dog goes still, turns their head away, repeatedly licks you, licks their lips or tries to move out of the interaction, they are giving important information.”

The issue, she says, is not affection itself, but restraint. A hug can place pressure around a dog’s body, limit movement and remove their ability to choose whether to stay in the interaction.

Some dogs may enjoy leaning against their owner, sitting close by or resting near them, but being held tightly can feel stressful, especially for dogs that are worried, older, sore or overwhelmed.

Families are being urged to be especially careful with children, who may naturally want to cuddle dogs tightly.

Jo said: “Children often hug dogs because they love them. The intention is sweet, but dogs need space and choice.

“A dog who is uncomfortable may show several small warning signs before they growl, snap or move away. If those signs are missed, the situation can escalate.

“That is why children should be taught that dogs are not teddy bears. They are living animals with boundaries.”

Warning signs that a dog may not like being hugged include turning their head away, lip licking, yawning, showing the whites of the eyes, going still or stiff, ears moving back, a tucked or low tail, trying to move

away, lifting a paw, panting when not hot, avoiding eye contact, growling or snapping.

Jo added: “A still dog is not always a calm dog. Freezing can be a major sign that a dog is uncomfortable.

“Many people assume a dog is fine because they have not growled or snapped, but dogs often show much earlier signs first.”

Owners are also being warned not to punish a dog for growling.

Jo said: “Growling is communication. It is a dog saying they are uncomfortable and need the situation to change.

“If a dog is punished for growling, they may stop giving that warning in future. That can make interactions less safe because the dog has fewer ways to say they are struggling.”

Instead, owners should calmly stop the interaction and give the dog space.

Jo recommends using a simple “threesecond rule” when showing affection. Stroke the dog gently for around three seconds, then pause and see what they do.

If the dog leans in, nudges for more

or stays relaxed, they may be happy to continue. If they move away, turn their head, lick their lips or disengage, stop.

She said: “Affection should be a conversation, not something we do to them regardless of how they feel.

“Dogs can love their owners deeply and still dislike being held tightly. Those two things can both be true.

“My advice is simple: stop assuming your dog wants to be hugged, and start noticing how they ask for affection instead. Most dogs will show you what they enjoy when we give them the chance.”

Better ways to show affection include letting the dog come to you, stroking gently on the chest, shoulder or side, sitting near them without holding them, playing or training together, and making sure they have a safe space where they can retreat without being followed.

Families are advised not to let children hug dogs tightly, climb on dogs, disturb sleeping dogs, or call a dog back for more cuddles if it has chosen to move away.

Two Milford Haven schools set to be built amid cost concerns

An ouTline business case to Welsh government for new schools in Milford Haven, which would be “the most expensive capital project ever undertaken by the council” has been backed by senior councillors.

At the Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet meeting of May 27, members were asked to approve the submission of an outline business case for the Milford Haven Schools redevelopment to Welsh Government, and to approve the new updated budget for the scheme, in light of completing the outline business case , and make provision within the capital programme.

It was previously reported at the May meeting of full council that the scheme, for both a new English Medium and a Welsh Medium School, won’t be built before 2030 and 2032 respectively.

At that meeting, Cabinet member for education, Cllr Guy

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Woodham, who had earlier announced he was stepping down from his Cabinet education role, said he felt a personal disappointment to be stepping down before there was “a spade in the ground”.

A report for Cabinet members, presented by Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Cllr Rhys Sinnett, said following the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board considering a report on the draft business case it was recommended a new Welsh Medium 3-11 primary school be built on the existing Milford Haven Community Primary School (junior site) and an English Medium provision combined new primary and secondary school building on the existing secondary school site, with some sharing of services.

The schemes also include a 40-place Flying Start centre, a 36-place secondary learning resource centre and a 24-place primary learning resource centre.

It also includes a leisure centre on site, with Thornton Sports Hall demolished as part of scheme, following a March Cabinet backing to support a new leisure investment programme, the funding for that not forming part of the business plan approved.

The report added: “The estimated cost of the scheme has changed from £141,598,965 to £143,617,659, primarily as a result of a change of Welsh Government requirements, from the Building Bulletin to new Area Guidelines, which has required an increase in the Gross Internal Floor Area (GIFA) of the schools to comply, together with further development of the project towards more accurate costs.”

The scheme would see

a funding split of: Welsh Government 67.75 per cent, Pembrokeshire County Council 32.25 per cent, a total contribution from the council of £46,316,467

In the report, Director of Resources Jonathan Haswell the scheme would be “the most expensive capital project ever undertaken by the council”.

Members backed the recommendation, new Leader Cllr Tessa Hodgson reflecting it was the first Cabinet meeting without Cllr Guy Woodham in the education role, having stepped back due to health issues, saying he had “worked so hard for this”.

Members backed the recommendations.

Mike Cavanagh, Head of Culture, Leisure, and School Modernisation stressed the business case was not the last part of the process with a full business case expected by the end of the year, and hopes construction would be complete by 2030 and ’32 respectively.

Davies: “Back Welsh dairy farmers this World Milk Day”

WelSH Conservative Shadow farming Minister Andrew RT davies has called for more support for dairy farmers in Wales as the industry marks World Milk day.

The global campaign is marked on 1st June each year, with countries across the world recognising the importance of milk consumption.

Mr Davies pointed to its health and nutritional benefits – particularly for small children.

He warned dairy farmers face huge challenges posed by falling milk prices – which have in some cases dropped below the cost of production.

He therefore called for support to maintain the industry’s viability.

Mr Davies said:

“World Milk Day is a great opportunity to recognise the importance of the dairy industry in Wales.

“Milk consumption brings many health and nutritional benefits – but dairy farmers face huge challenges.

“With milk prices falling –it’s vital we provide the industry with the support it needs to remain viable.”

Families invited to see farming with nature in action this Open Farm Sunday

AHeAd of open farm Sunday’s 20 anniversary, new research by organisers, leAf (linking environment And farming), reveals deep-rooted public support for farmers who produce food while protecting nature.

Families across the country have the chance to visit one of over 250 farms taking part in Open Farm Sunday on 7 June, to discover the world of farming, make new connections and explore the vital links between food production, farming and nature.

The survey of more than 2,000 people found that 93% believe it is important for the UK to maintain a strong level of food production capacity in an increasingly uncertain world.

At the same time, 89% agreed that protecting nature on farms, including healthy soils, flood defences and biodiversity, is essential for longterm food production, while 71% said farmers should focus on producing food while also protecting nature.

The findings highlight the importance of helping people see, first-hand, what sustainable farming looks like beyond the supermarket shelf. On Open Farm Sunday, farms of different sizes and sectors open their gates, giving visitors the chance to ask questions and discover how wildlife, soils, water, technology and food production are all connected.

Annabel Shackleton, Open Farm Sunday Event Manager, said: “Open Farm Sunday is a wonderful day of discovery. Families can immerse themselves in a world they don’t

usually see.

“It’s an opportunity to see sustainable farming in action, not as an idea on a label, but as something real, practical and happening every day. This research shows people care deeply about food security and about nature, and farmers are working hard to deliver both.

“For 20 years, Open Farm Sunday has helped build trust and connection between the public and farming.

This anniversary year is a wonderful opportunity for children and adults alike to engage with farming in an interactive, fun and inspiring way while seeing how their everyday food choices can help support a more sustainable future.”

Open Farm Sunday is one of the farming industry’s leading public engagement programmes. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to meet farmers face-to-face, get up close to

machinery, livestock and crops, and learn how farmers care for the land, take pride in their work, and use bright ideas to grow good food.

This year’s campaign encourages people to turn food labels into lived experiences by visiting a farm, meeting farming champions and discovering how nature and innovation work together.

Find details of local farms to visit on the Open Farm Sunday website.

Ffermio Bro opens next Expression of Interest window for Pembrokeshire farmers

farmers and land managers within the Pembrokeshire Coast national Park are being encouraged

to apply for the next round of ffermio bro support, with the latest expression of interest window now

officially open.

Ffermio Bro supports practical, farmer-led projects that help deliver positive outcomes for nature, water quality, habitat connectivity, traditional boundaries, wildfire resilience and the wider farmed landscape across the National Park.

Following a successful first year, the programme has already supported a wide range of projects across Pembrokeshire, including habitat restoration, watercourse fencing, traditional boundary restoration, firebreak creation and woodland connectivity work.

During Year One, the programme supported:

• 37 farms and land managers across the National Park

• Projects covering just under 3,000 hectares

• More than 4 kilometres of hedgerow creation and restoration

• Over 800 metres of watercourse improvement and protection works

• Around 27 hectares of woodland support and management

• A range of collaborative projects focused on improving biodiversity and ecosystem resilience across the National Park.

Arwel Evans, Conservation Farm Liaison Officer with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, said: “The first year of Ffermio Bro has shown what can be achieved

when farmers and land managers are supported to deliver practical conservation work on the ground.

“We’ve worked with farms across the National Park on projects ranging from habitat restoration and water quality improvements to traditional boundary work and wildfire resilience.

“Looking ahead to the next two years, we’re particularly keen to support projects that improve water quality and river resilience across catchments such as the Eastern and Western Cleddau, Nyfer and Gwaun. That includes practical measures such as riparian fencing, buffer strips, healthier soils and habitat management that help keep rivers clean and resilient for the future.”

Gareth Waters, Ffermio Bro Advisor, added: “One of the strengths of the scheme is that projects are designed around individual farms and local priorities.

“We’re keen to support practical projects that deliver long-term benefits for both farming businesses and the landscape, and we’d encourage interested farmers to contact us before the deadline.”

The current application window for Ffermio Bro: Farming within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park will remain open until Monday 22 June 2026.

Further information on the scheme, eligibility and how to submit an Expression of Interest can be found at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/ ffermio-bro.

Strengthened sentencing guidance on hare coursing welcomed by NFU Cymru

nfu Cymru has welcomed new sentencing guidelines which ‘better reflect the seriousness of illegal hare coursing activities and the impact it has on farming families.’

From today (Monday 1st June) courts in England and Wales will follow new guidance for sentencing hare coursing offences. The new guidelines, developed by the Sentencing Council for England and Wales after public consultation, cover four areas: trespass with intent to search for or pursue hares with dogs; being equipped for searching for or pursuing hares with dogs; trespass in the daytime in search of game; and taking or destroying game by night.

In recent years hare coursing has become a major issue for farming businesses in some areas of Wales. In particular, the Vale of Glamorgan has become a hotspot for this illegal activity, where farmers challenging perpetrators have been subjected to intimidation and threats of violence.

NFU Cymru has welcomed the new sentencing guidelines for hare coursing offences as an important step forward in deterring hare coursers, but has stressed that these new measures will only be effective when supported by targeted police efforts on the ground.

NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: “Illegal hare

coursing continues to blight the lives of farming families in Wales. The ramifications of these activities run much deeper than damage to farmland. In so many cases our members have seen property destroyed, livestock harmed and in the most serious instances, farmers have been subjected to extreme threats of violence simply for trying to move offenders off their fields. When you consider that farms are so often family homes as well as a place of work, it makes the intimidation and ongoing threat that our members are subjected to all the more sinister.

“We welcome the new sentencing guidelines introduced by the Sentencing Council for England and Wales, which better reflect the seriousness of illegal hare coursing activities and the impact it has on farming families. We hope this new guidance will act as a deterrent to those who continue to act with a flagrant disregard for the law and whose deplorable, reckless behaviour endangers livestock, wildlife and those living and working in the farming community.

“The revised impetus for the courts setting out the clear aggravating factors for judges to consider must now be supported by a consistent policing approach on the ground. We need to see a timely response to these offences

– no matter where they take place in Wales – so that officers can support members at times of conflict, gather evidence, apprehend offenders and help bring them to justice. It is only then that the value within these new guidelines will truly be realised.

“The Vale of Glamorgan appears to be the epicentre for these issues right now and farmers in the area remain concerned as to the level of dedicated police resource to tackle the issue. NFU Cymru continues to make the case that South Wales Police should commit to resourcing a full-time rural crime team in the force area, staffed with personnel whose primary remit is tackling crimes targeting farms and rural communities. We have seen the merits of such an approach in the North Wales, Dyfed-Powys and Gwent force areas. We of course recognise the range of policing challenges presented in the South Wales Police force area, however those living and farming in the urban fringes should be able to carry out their day job of feeding the nation without being subjected to violence.

“NFU Cymru continues to work with rural crime officers, police forces and each force area’s elected Police and Crime Commissioner in a bid to highlight the impact of hare coursing and other rural crime on farm businesses.”

Wales has long been proud of its rich singing tradition, and it would be remiss not to begin this column by congratulating the brilliant Hawkstone farmers’ Choir on their remarkable victory in britain’s got Talent at the weekend. in recent weeks, audiences across the uk have had the opportunity to enjoy their inspiring performancesshowcasing many prominent Welsh voices. yet beyond the music and welldeserved success, their journey has also helped shine a spotlight on the continuing mental health crisis facing the farming community.

At a time of growing pressure - from changes to farm support and mounting financial strain to the continued blight of bovine TB - their success has helped bring an important and too often overlooked issue into the national conversation and highlighted the very real challenges facing farming families and rural communities across the country.

The extent of these pressures, and the financial challenges facing farmers, have no doubt escalated further since the troubles in the Gulf. International instability and uncertainty surrounding global energy markets have already driven sharp increases in the cost of key farm inputs, adding yet another layer of strain to businesses already operating within increasingly tight margins.

For many farmers, these global events can feel far removed from daily life on the farm but their consequences are immediate and

unavoidable. Fertiliser prices have risen significantly compared with pre-conflict levels, while fuel prices have surged sharply. For farm businesses already facing rising overheads, uncertainty over support arrangements and volatile markets, these additional costs are deeply concerning.

Financial strain and uncertainty can place enormous pressure on farming families and weigh heavily on mental wellbeing. Agriculture remains an industry where long hours, isolation and relentless responsibility are commonplace and the cumulative effect of these pressures should not be underestimated.

Recognising the seriousness of these challenges, the FUW has recently been engaging directly with a range of banks and financial institutions to discuss the growing pressures facing the sector. Those conversations have focused on ensuring lenders understand the exceptional circumstances affecting farm businesses and the importance of adopting a supportive and flexible approach where cashflow pressures arise.

At a time of considerable uncertainty, constructive dialogue between the agricultural and banking sectors will be vital in helping viable family farms weather these external shocks and plan with greater confidence for the future. Just as importantly, we must continue the conversations around mental health and ensure farmers know that support is available and that they do not have to face these challenges alone.

AC Cars unveils new production AC Cobra GT Coupe

AC Cars, britain’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer, has revealed the brutal new AC Cobra gT Coupe in production form. unifying the historic AC Cobra’s iconic aesthetic with a fixed roofline and curvilinear rear, the gT Coupe represents a new era for the company which is celebrating the 125th anniversary of its founding.

Unmistakable in origin, and presenting a more focused and aggressive stance than its GT Roadster stablemate, the physical unveiling of the AC Cobra GT Coupe shows the scale and drama of the supercar for the first time. Drawing on motorsport derived details to sharpen its onroad presence, the new AC Cobra GT Coupe is a thoroughbred example of sophisticated ferocity.

Sharing roughly 75% of its engineering with the GT Roadster, the new model benefits from comprehensive enhancements developed during testing and development.

Available in both left and righthand drive and powered by a sonorous 5.0-litre V8, delivering up to 730 PS, the car features AC’s own extruded aluminium spaceframe chassis and unique carbon fibre bodywork to deliver a benchmark driving experience.

Speaking at the premiere, David Conza, Chief Executive Officer of AC Cars, said: “The AC Cobra GT Coupe is unique in the history of AC Cars and, with production of the GT Roadster now underway, it shows the road ahead for the company as we build and deliver cars for existing customers. AC Cars continues to invest in its operations, and develop new partnerships. This will provide the catalyst to take AC Cars from around 100 hand-built cars a year currently up to no more than 1000 cars across all models in total. As we celebrate the 125th anniversary of the company, I want to thank the entire team for their dedication as we move from a boutique manufacturer to a global performance brand. However, we will still retain the craftmanship and exclusivity that our clients respect.”

Extremely limited in production, with each example built specifically for its client, the new AC Cobra GT Coupe will start at approximately £234,300 + taxes for the naturally aspirated model, while the supercharged model starts from £256,300 + taxes. The first examples will be delivered in 2028 – after initial GT Roadster deliveries are completed.

Consultations for the allocation

of the AC Cobra GT Coupe are now available via ac.cars.

The AC Cobra GT Coupe: Redefining the legacy of an iconic supercar brand

Reflecting a legacy approach to competition car design, underpinned by cutting-edge engineering, the new AC Cobra GT Coupe’s curvilinear form echoes the past as well as revealing the future for one of the automotive industry’s most storied marques.

Inspired by the infamous AC A98 coupe race car, the new model is a grand tourer in nature. However, despite its dramatic personality, the GT Coupe is not a stripped-out track car. The culmination of sustained investment and development work carried out over the last seven years, the AC Cobra GT Coupe builds on the foundations laid by the GT Roadster. The first ever production AC Cobra coupe, the new car is intended as a bold model that will expand AC Cars’ appeal to clients globally, including key markets such as Asia and the Middle East.

Designed and produced in house, the AC Cobra GT Coupe showcases the expertise of AC Cars’ production team. Based on the same unique vehicle architecture as the AC Cobra GT Roadster, the extruded aluminium chassis provides the GT Coupe with an exceptionally light yet strong starting point. With ride and handling tuned to be compliant yet responsive, it suits the nature of this supercar and makes the most of the design’s inherent strengths.

The AC Cobra GT Coupe employs the latest carbon fibre production techniques to create the bodywork and unique fixed head design. This includes a ‘double bubble’ roofline, which

accentuates the drama of the rear three quarter view. Lowering the roofline without impacting head room, it smooths airflow and helps lower the drag coefficient, and amplifies the car’s lightweight credentials.

Further enhancing performance, as well as the GT Coupe’s overall racing aesthetic, the new car also incorporates a distinctive Kammtail - a concept employed by leading race teams over the last seven decades. Improving a vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency without resorting to a longtail solution, it was used to great effect in the design of the 1964 AC A98 coupe Le Mans race car.

In line with the GT Roadster, the new GT Coupe is notably larger than the original AC Cobra, with a wheelbase of 2570mm, an overall length of 4225mm and a width of 1980mm. It features a near perfect 50:50 weight balance front to rear, with a low centre of gravity and a kerb weight of approximately 1600kg. Although slightly heavier, the coupe’s lower drag coefficient means overall performance is expected to be on a par with that of the GT Roadster.

The AC Cobra GT Coupe continues the company’s use of a modern V8 powertrain to devastating effect. Available either supercharged or naturally aspirated, the modular engine delivers 730 PS (720bhp) and 820Nm (605lb ft), or 456 PS (450bhp) and 555Nm (410lb ft) respectively. The supercharged GT Coupe is capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in under 3.5sec. The choice of gearboxes includes a 6-speed manual gearbox for traditionalists or an advanced 10-speed automatic gearbox with steeringwheel mounted shift paddles.

Designed as grand tourer the new coupe doesn’t compromise on cabin space, ensuring that driver and passenger relish every mile. Contemporary ergonomics means the cabin accommodates drivers over six-feet tall, while the car utilises modern control technologies.

Bespoke details have become a recent hallmark of AC Cars’ cabin design, where unique hand finished leatherwork and upholstery elements combine with subtle heritage inspired touches. Reflecting AC’s legacy and its modern approach to sports car engineering, analogue instrumentation and digital technology together enhance the driving experience.

From the Driver Information Centre screen mounted behind the steering wheel, past the machined toggle switchgear down to the signature AC pedals – every inch has been considered to present a curated environment. Highly equipped as standard, the new AC Cobra GT Coupe includes electric windows, climate control and a touch screen sat nav/infotainment system, with upgrade options available.

Alongside a range of standard colour configuration options inspired by the brand’s heritage, AC Cars bespoke service works with clients to create unique vehicles. From customer paint colours and leather finishes, to hand crafted, visible carbon fibre sections and bodywork components, the factory team help each owner stamp their personality on their car.

To learn more about the AC Cobra GT Coupe, and to enquire about the allocation of these exclusive supercars, visit ac.cars.

YOUR LOCAL EV SPECIALISTS IN WEST WALES

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BMW model updates for summer 2026

Summer 2026 is set to bring new standard and optional equipment, alongside innovations in digitalisation and powertrain technology, that will make the current bMW model range even more attractive. A new black edition is introduced for bMW M340i xdrive and M440i xdrive derivatives. bMW iX3 customers will soon be able to specify optional heated rear seats and select from nine additional exterior paint colours. bMW M ignite technology brings a significant reduction in fuel consumption under high loads for all bMW M sixcylinder engines. from July 2026 convenient routines can be created via the bMW intelligent Personal Assistant to assist everyday driving. New Black Edition available for BMW M340i xDrive and M440i xDrive derivatives.

The new Black Edition makes the M Performance models of the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé look even more dynamic, and will be available in conjunction with the M Sport package Pro, which includes M Sport brakes in red.

Inside the cabin, the Black Edition adds striking accents with motorsportinspired carbon fibre details. In addition to the Carbon Fibre M interior trim,

customers benefit from an M leather steering wheel with carbon decorative trim. For the exterior, the Black Edition includes exclusive model badges in black on the rear and sides, as well as black 19” M light alloy wheels. The BMW M340i xDrive Saloon (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 172 g/ km; CO2 class: F) and the BMW M340i xDrive Touring (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 176 g/km; CO2 class: G) come with 995 M 19” M light alloy wheels finished in Jet Black with mixed tyres. Additional M light alloy wheel designs and sport tyres are also available optionally.

The BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.9 l/100 km; CO2emissions 179 g/km; CO2 class: G) features an additional black model badge in the BMW kidney grille and 861 M 19” M light-alloy wheels in Jet Black with mixed tyres.

These BMW M light alloy wheels will now also be available as a separate option for all M Performance models of the BMW 4 Series Coupé, BMW 4 Series Convertible and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, optionally with sport tyres.

The BMW M340i xDrive Saloon

Black Edition is priced from £66,475 OTR, while the Touring derivative starts at £68,315 OTR. Pricing for the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé Black Edition starts at £68,610 OTR.

New exterior colours and equipment options for the BMW iX3.

From summer 2026, a total of nine BMW Individual exterior paint finishes will be available for the BMW iX3. Customers will be able to specify the following colours: Orinoco, Sepang Bronze, Twilight Purple, Grigio Telesto, Java Green II, Purple Silk Malachite Green, Voodoo Blue and Urban Green. Further new options include 1051 M 21” M Aerodynamic wheels in Jet Black, as well as a Contemporary Agave bicolour interior design. Heated rear seats will also be available in conjunction with the optional Innovation package.

Debut for a patented innovation: BMW M Ignite technology introduced for all BMW M six-cylinder engines.

All BMW M six-cylinder in-line engines will feature the innovative BMW M Ignite technology from summer 2026. This highly efficient new technology consists of a pre-chamber ignition system for petrol engines patented by BMW. Derived from motorsport, it enables a significant reduction in fuel consumption under

high loads. In addition, BMW M Ignite technology plays a key role in meeting the stringent requirements of the Euro 7 standard. All variants of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 will come with this new technology from July 2026, with the M2 to follow from August 2026. All models’ displacement and power outputs will remain unchanged.

Quick help when you need it most: Tyre Repair Kit Plus.

The BMW 2 Series Coupé, the BMW 4 Series Coupé and the BMW 4 Series Convertible will come with the Tyre Repair Kit Plus (seal & drive tyre kit) as standard from summer 2026.

A sporty look for car keys.

All BMW X3 models with the M Sport package or M Sport Pro Package will in future feature car keys with BMW M stripes.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant: Create and use routines.

From July 2026, BMW Operating System X will offer new options for creating routines. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant analyses daily usage patterns to suggest routines, simplifying tasks in everyday driving. Users can also create their own custom routines by specifying the conditions under which they are to be executed and which actions are to be performed automatically.

Historic Pembrokeshire courthouse set to be redeveloped with new lease of life

A CAll to turn part of Haverfordwest’s former courthouse in the town centre to a theatre is expected to be approved by county planners next week.

At the June meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, members are recommended to approve an application by Mr N Heywood for a change of use of part of the building from a former court room, Shire Hall, High Street, Haverfordwest, to a theatre.

Built in 1835 to the design of local architect, William Owen, the Shire Hall is a listed GradeII*-listed building, described by CADW as one of the finest of its type in Wales.

According to Haverfordwest Civic Society the court has seen many major trials, its first being that of Rebecca Rioters on several occasions between 1840 and 1844.

When the law courts were relocated to Hawthorn Rise, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire County Council awarded a developer a 999-year lease on a peppercorn rent.

The building housed a couple of restaurants on its upper floors in the early 2000s, with the last of these believed to have closed around 2010.

According to the application,

consent application has also been submitted to planners.

the theatre would: “Bring the vacant building back into a meaningful use, resulting in the preservation of the Grade-II*Listed Building, and contributing to the enhancement and regeneration of the town centre of Haverfordwest.”

The application states that there would be no change to the exterior of Shire Hall but there would be some internal works.

A related listed building

The applicant’s agent, Ian Bartlett Planning and Architectural Services, has confirmed the theatre’s opening hours as between 10am and 11pm.

Haverfordwest Town Council supported the scheme in principle but had called for it to be decided by committee, raising concerns in part at a lack of detail in the initial application and concerns about potential harm to the historic building, with Haverfordwest Civic Society taking a similar stance, with members “anxious

that any new use should respect and conserve the integrity of the historic courtroom interior, which remains substantially intact, including the judges’ bench, dock, witness box, public benches and associated fittings”.

The application is for committee consideration rather than delegated powers to planning officers following a request by the local member.

An officer report recommending approval says: “As a former courtroom, this use would historically have been characterised by the public assembling within the area via a formalised gathering.

“The proposed use as a theatre would remain broadly compatible with the historic function of the courtroom as a place used for public congregation.

“The proposed use as a theatre would introduce audiencebased occupation and periods of intensified use, however, this is not considered inherently dissimilar to the building’s historic use, with any internal alterations subject to the listed building consent application which is currently under consideration.

“In addition, bringing the building into use is likely to contribute positively to the preservation and maintenance of the historic building.”

Award-winning Herbrandston holiday site set to expand

PlAnS to expand a Pembrokeshire holiday operation which was voted as the best of its type in the uk by the Caravan Club in its very first year of operation have been given the go-ahead.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Dean and Sharon Philpin sought permission to expand the existing holiday operation at Woody Kiln Farm, Herbrandston Village, Herbrandston by converting a former agricultural barn to four short-term holiday lets.

A supporting statement through agent Hayston Developments &

Planning Ltd said: “Woody Kiln Farm is located to the east of Herbrandston village, to the south easterly side of Havens Park residential estate. It is a registered agricultural holding, and the land is used mainly for the raising and grazing of sheep covering 12 / 13 acres.

“The farm complex comprises of a number of traditional outbuildings and the applicants main dwelling surrounding a surfaced courtyard. Immediately to the south is a caravan site

registered with the Caravan & Motorhome Club as a Certificated Location for up to five touring caravans and motorhomes.

“This Certificated Location has been in operation for 10 years and was the first ever site to be voted the best site in UK on its first year of operating by its members. In recent years it was voted best site in Wales.”

The site has won many similar Certificated Location awards.

It went on to say: “The application proposal relates to a total of three barns that integrate into one building footprint. It is intended to reuse the barns and provide four short-term holiday let units that will be run in conjunction with our client’s current Caravan Club site, situated immediately to the east of the barns.”

It was described as: “A sympathetic design that incorporates no change to the footprint or roof design and little change to the fenestration is the main theme of the design strategy.”

An officer report recommending approval, subject to conditions including a unilateral undertaking to provide a contribution to affordable housing said: “Strategic Policy have advised that the scale and layout of the units could lend themselves to residential use and that an affordable housing contribution may be required.

“Whilst the proposed use is short-term holiday let given that the properties are capable of use as full residential properties, it is proposed that a full unfettered residential permission be granted, with no condition for holiday letonly, meaning that the property could be used for full residential use or second home use.”

Based on current affordable housing contributions, that amounted to £26,170, the report said.

The application was conditionally approved, conditions including the affordable housing element.

Changing eating habits threaten future of one of Wales’ best-known brands

Concern mounts over future of production as Wales’ famous bakery battles falling sales and changing consumer tastes

one of Wales’ best-known bakery brands is facing a major threat as changing eating habits, rising costs and falling demand for the traditional sliced loaf put pressure on jobs and production.

Brace’s Bakery, founded in 1902, has warned that the market for standard sliced bread has changed dramatically, with the company blaming an “acceleration of the decline in standard sliced bread” for its recent financial pressures.

The issue has now taken on fresh urgency amid fears over the future of production at one of the company’s Welsh sites.

Industry reports have said Brace’s planned to close its Pen-y-Fan Industrial Estate site as part of a wider business “reset”, with production being consolidated at its larger Croespenmaen operation. Earlier reports suggested the company expected fewer than 20 redundancies, with most staff transferring, but latest local reporting has raised concerns among workers that the situation may be moving faster than previously expected.

The company has said the Pen-yFan factory has one production line, while Croespenmaen has two sliced bread plants and also produces Welsh cakes, rolls and artisan-style products.

Brace’s director Mark Brace has previously described the pressures facing the industry as severe.

He said: “We are a long-standing family business in a very challenging marketplace as the rest of the baking industry is UK wide.”

He added that since Covid there had been a slow annual decline in standard bread sales, but that in the last two years major competitors such as Kingsmill and Hovis had also seen declines of more than 15 per cent.

Leon James, director of finance at Brace’s, gave an even starker assessment, saying: “There has been a massive reduction in the consumption of standard white bread – and the white

loaf is our cash cow.”

He also warned of the difficulty in passing rising costs on to customers, saying: “If we put our prices up, customers will very quickly switch.”

The problem is not unique to Brace’s. Across Britain, the traditional wrapped sliced loaf has been losing ground as shoppers change the way they eat. Market research cited by The Guardian found that sliced loaf bread sales had fallen by around 15 per cent over five years, while only around a third of people now eat sliced loaf bread daily, down from about half in 2015.

Kiti Soininen, head of food and drink research at Mintel, said: “Whenever a new breakfast or lunch option comes into the market, more often than not it’s bread that loses out.”

Younger consumers are increasingly turning to wraps, flatbreads, oats, yoghurt, salads, rice bowls, noodles,

sushi and higher-protein meals. At the same time, concerns over ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates have pushed some shoppers towards seeded, wholegrain, sourdough and higher-fibre breads.

The UK bread industry is already responding with consolidation.

Associated British Foods, the owner of Kingsmill, agreed a £75m deal to buy Hovis, a move expected to create the UK’s biggest bread brand if approved by the Competition and Markets Authority. The deal follows falling sales and losses in parts of the traditional bread sector.

For Wales, however, Brace’s carries a particular significance. This is not just another food manufacturer. It is a household name whose loaves have been bought in corner shops, supermarkets and family kitchens for generations.

The crisis highlights a wider question for Welsh manufacturing: how can longestablished family firms survive when consumer habits change faster than factories can adapt?

Brace’s has already shifted more attention towards Welsh cakes, rolls, premium loaves and artisan-style products. But the pressure on the standard sliced loaf remains a serious challenge for a company whose name has long been associated with everyday bread.

Bread itself is not disappearing from Welsh homes. But the kind of bread people buy, and the way they eat it, has changed.

For Brace’s, the future may now depend on whether one of Wales’ most familiar food brands can move beyond the old white sliced loaf without losing the loyalty, identity and scale that made it famous.

Hospital staff to climb Pen y Fan for Ward 4 fundraiser

STAff from Ward 4 at Withybush Hospital are preparing to climb Pen y fan to raise money for their surgical ward.

The team will take on the challenge on Saturday, September 5, 2026, climbing the highest peak in South Wales in Bannau Brycheiniog.

The fundraiser aims to raise £500, with money going directly towards improving the ward environment for patients.

Staff said: “We have organised this event to raise funds that will go directly towards enhancing the ward environment for patients, including purchasing items such as TVs to improve comfort and wellbeing during their stay.

“We’re hoping to raise £500.”

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “A huge thank you to the team on Ward 4 for embracing the challenge and choosing to raise funds for their ward. We hope you have a fantastic day and truly enjoy the experience.

“The generous charitable donations we receive do not replace NHS funding. Instead, they support additional items and activities outside core NHS expenditure. These small

extras make a big difference, and we are so grateful for every donation we receive.”

Donations can be made to the Ward 4 Pen y Fan

fundraiser at: https://hyweldda. enthuse.com/cf/ward-4-staffat-withybush-hospital-s-pen-yfan-cha

For more information about

Hywel Dda Health Charities and how to support local NHS patients and staff, visit: hywelddahealthcharities.nhs. wales

Hywel Dda to hold second consultation on future of stroke services

A SeCond phase of public consultation is to be held on the future of stroke services across Hywel dda university Health board’s four main hospitals.

The Health Board endorsed the move on May 28, as part of its wider Clinical Services Plan, which is looking at fragile hospital services and how care can be made safer, more sustainable, accessible and kind.

At an extraordinary board meeting in February, decisions were made on eight of the nine services being reviewed. However, no final decision was taken on stroke services, after board members agreed that further work and engagement were needed.

The Health Board says its current stroke services do not consistently meet national clinical standards. Services are currently spread across four hospital sites, with no specialist stroke cover available seven days a week, which can affect patient outcomes and recovery.

Since February, further work has been carried out to develop and test a preferred option for stroke services.

The proposal combines elements of two alternative options put forward by communities during the first phase of consultation last summer.

The preferred option includes a 24hour acute stroke and rehabilitation unit at Glangwili Hospital, a stroke rehabilitation unit at Bronglais Hospital, and treat-and-transfer services at Bronglais, Prince Philip and Withybush hospitals.

Under the model, patients would be transferred to Glangwili Hospital or to a specialist thrombectomy centre where appropriate.

The Board heard that the proposal had been assessed in the same level of detail as previously considered options, met the required criteria, and had support from clinical and operational representatives.

The second phase of consultation will run for eight weeks, from May 28 until July 26.

People will be asked whether they support the preferred option and why. They will also be able to comment on the other options previously considered by the Board, including Option A, Option B, Option 106 and Option 210.

The consultation will also seek views on any other issues that should be considered, including potential impacts on equality and the Welsh language.

Dr Neil Wooding, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “Today’s decision means we can now return to our communities to ask their views on a preferred option. The option was developed using suggestions put forward by our communities in the first place. This is an important step before any final decision on stroke services is made.

“As a Board, we are committed to working together to ensure we provide the best possible care for our patients, including the best outcomes for people who suffer a stroke. Change can be challenging, but we must adapt to ensure

our services meet stroke standards and enable people to have the best possible recovery from this life-altering condition.”

The Health Board said a range of engagement opportunities will be offered, including public drop-in events, online sessions, community outreach, hospital site visits, staff briefings and targeted engagement with community groups.

Information will also be made available in accessible formats and different languages.

Mark Henwood, Executive Medical Director, said: “We know how important stroke services are to the people we serve and to our staff. This second phase of consultation represents an important stage in shaping the future of stroke services across Hywel Dda.

“I encourage everyone to get involved – whether by completing the questionnaire or attending one of our events. Your experiences and feedback will play a vital role in helping us make well-informed decisions to deliver the best possible outcomes for patients.”

The Health Board will consider feedback from both phases of the consultation, alongside evidence, data, clinical advice and impact assessments, before making a final decision later this year.

Further information, including event details, the questionnaire and documents in accessible formats and languages, is available on the Health Board’s consultation webpage.

Sonography software update strengthens ultrasound reporting across NHS Wales

A MAJoR software upgrade is helping hospitals across Wales improve ultrasound reporting and create a more connected imaging record for clinicians.

ViewPoint 6, an advanced sonography reporting system delivered by Health Net Connections Ltd, has been rolled out across six Welsh health boards, including Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

The system is designed to support obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound reporting, linking reporting workflows with existing hospital IT systems and helping clinicians access images and reports more quickly.

Health Net Connections said the rollout marks an important step towards a more standardised and reliable ultrasound reporting system across NHS Wales.

The Betsi Cadwaladr deployment was one of the most complex parts of the project, involving integration with several third-party systems and access for a large number of users across multiple sites.

There were some external challenges when the system went live, including connectivity issues, workflow disruption caused by third-party system changes, and delays in image transfer between systems.

However, the ViewPoint 6 platform itself remained stable, with no reported issues in its core reporting function. Health Net Connections said critical issues were resolved within hours through work with Philips and local clinical and IT teams.

John Kingan, Healthcare Informatics Sales Leader at Philips UK and Ireland, said: “Connecting multiple services across multiple sites is a complex challenge for healthcare systems, including ultrasound services.

“In partnership with NHS Wales and HNC, we’re bringing obstetric reporting

into a more standardised, unified, connected environment.

“This will make it easier for clinicians to access the information they need, work together more effectively, and make faster, informed decisions.

“Ultimately, this supports safer and more consistent care for patients across Wales.”

The project included the deployment of ViewPoint 6 version 6.15.4, with dedicated on-site support and continuing work to optimise image transfer and integration across different platforms.

Clinicians have described ViewPoint

as one of the easiest and least problematic systems introduced within the organisation, according to Health Net Connections.

Six health boards have now implemented the technology: Cwm Taf Morgannwg, Swansea Bay, Hywel Dda, Betsi Cadwaladr, Aneurin Bevan, and Powys Teaching Health Board.

Faith Bose, Sales Director at Health Net Connections, said: “We’re extremely proud to be working alongside Philips and supporting NHS Wales to strengthen ultrasound imaging reporting and move toward a more seamless, integrated imaging record.

“With six successful ViewPoint installations across NHS Wales, we’re helping ensure ultrasound reporting integrates effectively within the wider enterprise landscape.

“This gives clinicians faster, more consistent access to images and reports, smoother cross-site collaboration and improved reporting quality and, most importantly, delivers better continuity of care, greater reporting reliability, and enhanced patient safety for communities across Wales.”

Health Net Connections specialises in clinical IT solutions and system integration across NHS organisations, including ultrasound reporting and imaging platforms.

Campaigners target £50m Welsh drone expansion after Aberporth protest

AnTi-ARMS campaigners have accused the uk and Welsh

governments of turning west Wales into a centre for military

drone development following protests in Cardigan and

Aberporth.

West Wales Against Arms said its members took part in the Red Line for Palestine action in Cardigan on Saturday (May 23), before staging a vigil outside MOD Aberporth on Sunday (May 24).

The group says the demonstrations were aimed at drawing attention to the role of defence companies QinetiQ and Tekever in the growing use of unmanned aerial vehicle technology in west Wales.

The protest comes after the announcement of a £50m Wales Defence Growth Deal, which ministers say will support highskilled jobs and strengthen Wales’ role in autonomous technology.

Campaigners, however, argue that public money should be spent on health, housing and public services rather than expanding military testing and drone development.

A spokesperson for West Wales Against Arms said: “From Cardigan’s march on Saturday to Aberporth’s vigil on Sunday, the message was the same. We see what is happening. We see who is enabling it. And we refuse to be quiet.

“This is not what we want for West Wales or for any part of the UK. It will leave less investment into health and housing and keep Wales complicit in the arms trade and the genocide in Palestine and the ongoing war in the Middle East.”

MOD Aberporth, near Cardigan Bay, has long been used for the testing of weapons systems and unmanned aerial systems.

QinetiQ operates at the site, while Tekever owns West Wales Airport. The two companies have previously announced plans to work together on developing uncrewed systems capability in the UK.

The UK Government has said the Wales Defence Growth Deal will help Welsh communities benefit from high-skilled roles, support small and medium-sized businesses, and improve access to defence contracts.

But campaigners say the deal raises serious ethical questions about the direction of public investment in Wales, particularly while the conflict in Gaza continues.

West Wales Against Arms has also published a pamphlet, Exposing the War Machine in Aberporth, setting out its claims about the defence industry in the area.

New pressure over M4 relief road after First Minister signals ‘roads-based’ solution

CAllS for an M4 relief road around newport have been reignited after first Minister Rhun ap iorwerth said he wanted to find a “roadsbased” answer to congestion on one of Wales’ most important transport routes.

The Welsh Conservatives said the comments must now be followed by a firm commitment to deliver a new relief road, warning that businesses and motorists had waited decades for action on the M4 bottleneck around the Brynglas Tunnels.

The issue has long been one of the most controversial infrastructure debates in Wales. A previous relief road scheme was scrapped in 2019 after around £157m had already been spent on planning and associated costs.

Supporters argue that congestion around Newport damages the Welsh economy, discourages investment and causes daily delays for commuters and freight. Opponents have previously

raised concerns about cost, environmental damage and the impact on the Gwent Levels.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, Janet Finch-Saunders MS, said: “The Brynglas Tunnels are among the most congested stretches of road anywhere in the United Kingdom.

“The previous Labour Government, backed by Plaid Cymru at the time, scrapped the M4 relief road after spending £157 million of taxpayers’ money on planning its delivery.

“Vague words about finding a ‘roads-based solution’ are not enough. We now need a clear commitment from the First Minister to deliver an M4 Relief Road and other vital infrastructure needed to grow the Welsh economy and ease pressure on motorists.”

Newport and Islwyn MS Natasha Asghar said people in south-east Wales had heard “broken promise after broken promise” over the M4.

BLUE VIEW

With Paul davies MS

What does a new Welsh government mean for health services in west Wales?

The Senedd elections last month marked a historic shift in Welsh politics, bringing an end to nearly three decades of Welsh Labour governance since the start of devolution. For the first time in the modern political era, Welsh Labour are not running the government. Instead, Plaid Cymru are - raising significant expectations across a range of policy areas, particularly in relation to the delivery of health services, which has been a huge area of concern for people living in west Wales.

government after the Senedd election, I wasted no time in reminding them of their stance on services at Withybush and Bronglais hospitals – urging them to act immediately to stop the Health Board removing services from our local hospitals. In the first two weeks of this new government, I tabled a question and wrote directly to the Cabinet Minister for Health and Care and raised it on the floor of the Senedd with the new First Minister too.

She said: “The First Minister must now deliver for the people of Newport and Islwyn, warm words alone are not enough.

“If Plaid Cymru is serious about tackling traffic problems in South East Wales, it must commit to delivering an M4 relief road to ease pressure on drivers, attract investment and boost the economy.”

The M4 is a key route linking Wales with England, ports, manufacturing sites and distribution networks. Congestion around Newport has repeatedly been cited by business groups as a barrier to economic growth.

The First Minister has not yet set out what form any new roadbased proposal would take, how much it would cost, or whether it would revive the original relief road route.

The debate is now likely to become an early test of the new Plaid Cymru Government’s approach to transport, economic development and environmental policy.

Here in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, public frustration has grown as patients face prolonged waiting times for essential treatments and services –and those concerns have been further exacerbated by decisions taken by Hywel Dda University Health Board to centralise or remove services from local hospitals, requiring patients to travel greater distances to access vital services.

Now, Pembrokeshire Herald readers will know that safeguarding local health services has been at the very core of my work since I was elected in 2007. I’ve consistently opposed proposals that take services further away from the people that I represent and I have repeatedly raised this issue at the Senedd over the years.

During the election period, it was an issue where there was significant cross-party support for change. Plaid Cymru held a public meeting in Letterston to discuss services and on their website advertising it they said “Emergency surgery is a lifeline. Removing it means longer journey times for people in urgent need — and that puts lives at risk.”

And so when Plaid Cymru formed its

The Welsh Government has now made its position clear – it will not intervene to prevent the removal of emergency general surgery services from Withybush hospital. This is profoundly disappointing and represents a significant departure from the stance that was previously made. For communities in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, this decision will feel all too familiar, as we’ve seen before the consequences of a government unwilling to step in to protect vital local services. I do not believe that the people of west Wales voted for a continuation of that approach and I’m saddened that this new administration will continue with the ways of the previous one.

In the meantime, I’ve met with the Health Board and made it crystal clear that my position has not changed. I will continue to campaign against the removal of health services from Withybush and Bronglais hospitals – and I will be challenging the Welsh Government on their position too.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

n the heels of T (not in education, employment or Training) statistics, the liberal democrats are calling for the government to “scrap the unfair jobs tax” to save a generation of young people from unemployment.

Responding to Alan Milburn’s report on youth unemployment and the ONS report showing that now over a million young people who are NEET’s, Daisy Cooper MP, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader and Treasury Spokesperson, said:

“These shocking figures confirm what we already knew: that an entire generation of young people are seeing their hopes and dreams ripped away, just as they enter what is meant to be the best years of their life.

“And Labour cannot claim they were not warned. We Liberal Democrats repeatedly warned that Labour’s jobs tax would hammer job opportunities for young people and that their business rates hikes would kill off high street job opportunities too which give so many young people their first job.

“The Government must urgently take action to unlock the skills and opportunities young people need to build a future they can believe in. This starts with a proper plan to get our economy growing again, scrapping the unfair jobs hike, throwing hospitality a lifeline and supercharging skills training and apprenticeships.”

Daisy Cooper also responded to the news that household energy prices will rise by 13% a year in July, saying:

“Households right across the country are paying the price as Trumpflation

continues to bite. Too many people are being trapped in constant anxiety over their energy bills.

“We will continue to be at the whim of volatile global markets and dictators like Putin until we completely break the link between electricity and gas prices.

“The Liberal Democrats have a plan to do this and a fully costed package to halve energy bills in the next decade.”

Another issue that has been in the news for a long time has been on a possible social media ban for children. The Liberal Democrats have been saying that the “Government is moving far too slowly” to protect children.

Responding to top doctors saying social media usage is as detrimental as smoking in children, Victoria Collins MP, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Science, Innovation and Technology, said:

“Parents are crying out for change, and this warning from doctors shows just how urgent this crisis is.

“For too long, social media giants have been allowed to profit from addictive algorithms while treating children’s mental health as a mere afterthought.

“The Liberal Democrats are clear that children’s wellbeing comes first. We have pushed for quicker timelines and stronger action through age ratings and recognition in law of the harms of addictive design. The Government are moving far too slowly.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Call for public inquiry after murdered student was handcuffed as he lay dying

dAvieS SAyS HenRy noWAk CASe eXPoSeS inSTiTuTionAl fAilingS AS PoliCe WATCHdog inveSTigATion ConTinueS

A CAll has been made for a Stephen lawrence-style public inquiry after murdered university student Henry nowak was handcuffed by police as he lay dying in the street.

Andrew RT Davies, Conservative Senedd member for South Wales Central, said the case raised serious questions about police judgement, institutional culture and the way officers respond when allegations of racism are made at chaotic crime scenes.

Henry, 18, was stabbed five times in Southampton on December 3, 2025, by Vickrum Digwa, 23, who later falsely claimed the teenager had racially abused him and knocked off his turban.

That account was rejected in court. Prosecutors described it as a “wicked lie”, and Digwa was jailed for life at Southampton Crown Court on Monday (June 1), with a minimum term of 21 years.

Body-worn footage released after the case showed officers initially treating Henry as a suspect, handcuffing him and reading him his rights despite his repeated pleas that he had been stabbed and could not breathe.

Hampshire Police has

apologised, and the Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating the force’s response.

Mr Davies said the case should now be examined through a wider public inquiry, arguing that it exposed cultural and structural failings beyond the actions of individual officers.

He said: “The appalling footage in which Henry Nowak was handcuffed as he bled to death has shocked many people, but attributing all blame to the officers involved would be a mistake.

“Henry Nowak’s treatment was the result of a culture of anti-racism under which white people face discrimination and are treated with suspicion.

“We need a Stephen Lawrencestyle inquiry to root out these cultural and structural failings within our institutions.”

The comparison is a highly charged one. The Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, published in 1999, found the Metropolitan Police to be institutionally racist following the racist murder of black teenager Stephen Lawrence in 1993.

Mr Davies is arguing for a similarly far-reaching examination of institutional assumptions, but from a very different perspective — claiming that modern policing culture may now cause officers to give undue weight to allegations of racism even when the facts are unclear.

Henry’s family has also

strongly criticised the way he was treated, although they have placed responsibility for his murder firmly on Digwa.

His father, Mark Nowak, said outside court that Henry’s treatment by police was “inhumane and degrading” and called for a full and transparent investigation.

The court heard that Digwa attacked Henry with a 21cm blade which he claimed to carry as part of his Sikh faith. However, he was also carrying a smaller ceremonial kirpan, and the judge said he had brought shame on his family, his community and his religion.

Representatives of the Sikh community have condemned the murder and stressed that Digwa’s actions were entirely contrary to Sikh teaching.

The case has now prompted wider questions about knife crime, religious exemptions in weapons law, police decision-making, and whether officers were too quick to accept Digwa’s false account of events.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has described the case as “awful” and “shocking”, while ministers have indicated that the sentence may be reviewed.

For now, the formal scrutiny rests with the IOPC. But Mr Davies’ intervention will intensify pressure for the investigation to examine not only what individual officers did, but why Henry Nowak was treated as a suspect while his killer’s false account was initially believed.

Davies criticises museum ‘decolonisation’ policy

ConSeRvATive Senedd member Andrew RT davies has criticised the Welsh government after a minister confirmed that work on “decolonisation” in museums will remain part of its culture policy.

Mr Davies, who represents South Wales Central, raised the issue in a written question to Heledd Fychan, the Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport.

He asked the First Minister to outline the new Government’s position on decolonisation in Welsh museums.

In response, Ms Fychan said the Government had a “renewed focus on culture and history” and was committed to strengthening ownership of Welsh heritage.

She said museums had an important role in ensuring collections “serve and reflect the people of Wales and our identity.”

AnTi-RACiST PlAn

The minister added that the Government would keep the Anti-

Racist Wales Action Plan under review, while retaining “a focus on the decolonisation of museum collections to rebalance perspectives, creating inclusive spaces and increasing engagement and participation among all people across Wales.”

She said museums would be

expected to use guidance from bodies including the Museums Association when carrying out the work.

Mr Davies criticised the approach, claiming it amounted to the politicisation of Welsh history.

He said: “Plaid Cymru separatists’ attempts to rewrite Welsh history

through the inaccurate framing of the progressive left show nothing has changed.

“Rhun ap Iorwerth promised to improve our public services, but instead his administration is doubling down on the worst projects pursued by his Labour predecessors.

“The people of Wales don’t want our museums decolonised, they want a functioning NHS.”

Supporters of museum decolonisation argue that the process does not erase history, but seeks to add context to collections, including the role of empire, slavery, racism and colonial power in how some objects were acquired or displayed.

Critics, however, say the approach risks imposing modern political views on historic collections and diverting attention and funding from core public services.

The Welsh Government has said equality of access to arts, culture and sport will be a priority, and that the museum sector is integral to that work.

First Minister to recommend counsel general to the King for appointment

THe CounSel general designate will be recommended to king Charles iii by the first Minister following a Senedd agreement.

It comes following Rhun ap Iorwerth’s First Minister’s Questions debut on Tuesday, June 2.

Although the counsel general is appointed by the King on the recommendation of the First Minister, Senedd approval is required for the recommendation to be made.

Under the Government of Wales Act 2006, the First Minister may not recommend the appointment, or the

removal, of the counsel general without the agreement of the Senedd.

The counsel general is the Welsh Government’s law officer, as well as the government’s chief legal advisor and representative in the courts.

The counsel general is not a minister, but is a member of the Welsh Government and can attend cabinet meetings at the invitation of the First Minister.

Notably, the role does not have to be held by a sitting Senedd Member.

As of 2026, the role of counsel general has twice been held by

individuals who were not also sitting MSs – Theodore Huckle QC from 2011 to 2016, and Elisabeth Jones from August to September 2024.

Responsibilities of the role include the provision of legal advice to the government, oversight of prosecutions on behalf of the Welsh Government, and oversight of the Legal Services Department and Office of the Legislative Counsel.

The counsel general is also expected to take questions from MSs in the Siambr during plenary once every four weeks.

Former Plaid Cymru MP Elfyn Llwyd has been proposed as counsel general.

Addressing the Siambr on Tuesday, Mr ap Iorwerth said: “A barrister and an experienced parliamentarian, I know that Elfyn will step into the role with the same dignity, the same passion and the same pragmatic attitude that defined his career in Westminster and that drew respect from all parts of the House of Commons.

“He worked on a cross-party basis to create an offence of stalking. He campaigned for veterans and for a justice system for Wales.

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

Pic Ture oF The week! ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL by Visit Wales

COMPLICITY AND DESPAIR

de AR S i R,

As heat waves and extreme weather events become more frequent, we are right to worry about the impact on our living standards and how we will access water, food and health care as climate change intensifies with alarming speed. The uk government is failing to take the action required, but in our local communities we can do things such as saving rainwater from our rooftops, insulating our homes, trying to grow more food and working with our neighbours towards greater resilience.

But what can people in Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon do while Israeli and US planes and drones drop bombs and missiles on them, destroying lives and communities? So-called ceasefires are not being respected. Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue, killing civilians and creating more homeless refugees with no safe shelters.

The UK Government is complicit in war crimes in Palestine, Lebanon and, most recently, Iran, by allowing the use of RAF bases

and continuing the sale of arms and military support to Israel. There is so much information unavailable to many people through our corporate-controlled national media. How many readers know, for example, that Palestinian land is being listed on tourism websites for visitors to stay on? Or that more of Gaza and the West Bank are being violently annexed on a daily basis?

I am trying not to despair as our Government continues to allow impunity and fails to stand up to Donald Trump. However, I was heartened to hear at least one Labour MP, Emily Thornberry, criticise Israel’s “staggering” sense of impunity and rebuke President Trump over Gaza. She is a brave and honourable woman, as those who speak out are often smeared and pressured in horrendous ways.

love and peace. Angie Zelter

TEA, CAKE AND HOPE AFTER BREAST CANCER

de AR S i R,

This August, i am inviting your readers to support breast Cancer now’s Afternoon Tea

Breast Cancer Now has a bold vision that by 2050, everyone diagnosed with breast cancer will live — and live well. But progress only happens through funding.

That is why I hosted an Afternoon Tea event. The first thing I did was ask Jenny to be my guest of honour. We were both emotional. After everything she had endured, it felt like a chance to celebrate brighter days.

Friends, neighbours and family gathered in our local hall to raise money, awareness and support for a cause so close to our hearts.

The beauty of Afternoon Tea is that anyone can take part in their own way. Whether you invite dozens of people or simply share tea and cake with a few friends, every cuppa can help change lives.

Sarah Howard WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU STOPPED WHAT YOU WERE DOING AND SIMPLy PLAyED?

de AR S i R,

fundraiser and help raise money for life-saving science and life-changing support.

Every nine minutes, someone in the UK hears the words: “You have breast cancer.” In 2024, my beautiful daughter Jenny became one of them. She was 41 years old and the mother of a two-year-old daughter and a tenmonth-old son.

Jenny underwent surgery and radiotherapy. Throughout everything, Breast Cancer Now provided support, information and reassurance. There was always someone available to answer questions, listen to fears and help her navigate the difficult journey ahead. She also benefited from the charity’s Moving Forward and Someone Like Me services.

Today, Jenny is thankfully doing well and has finished treatment. But the journey does not truly end.

Our family knows only too well the devastating impact of breast cancer. Jenny’s birth mother died from the disease at just 33 years old when Jenny was five. My husband’s mother also died from breast cancer aged 51, and Jenny’s maternal grandmother and aunt have both faced diagnoses too.

on June 11, the international day of Play, Starlight is inviting readers to take part in The big Play. Whether at work, school, home or in the community, people of all ages are encouraged to pause for a few moments and take part in a simple game of “Simon Says”.

Research consistently shows that play supports our mental, emotional and physical health, helping us feel happier, less stressed and more connected to others.

For seriously ill children, play is even more important. Starlight helps children in hospitals and healthcare settings experience the joy and comfort of play during treatment, improving their healthcare experience, reducing trauma and supporting wellbeing.

The Big Play is a reminder that play is not only for children. It is something all of us can benefit from, regardless of our age or circumstances.

Together, we can create a moment of joy that makes a real difference.

laura Walsh

death notices

S ANDRA DAv IES

SAndRA passed away suddenly and sadly on 5th May 2026, aged 74 years.

A devoted Wife to Graham, loving Mum to Andrew, and much-loved Nana. Sandra will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

Funeral on Saturday 13th June at 11:30 at North Wiltshire Crematorium.

Family flowers only but donations would be greatly appreciated for British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK and can be made on the day or by sending to Pearce Funeral Services, 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon, SN3 4NN.

Enquiries: 01793 832072

W ILLIAM J OHN B OWEN

PeACefully at glangwili Hospital on Thursday, May 21, 2026, William John bowen, West Rose farm, Red Roses aged 81 years.

Beloved husband of Brenda, much loved father of Hazel, Steve and Andrew, dear father-in-law of David and Theresa, proud ‘Grandad’ of Sam, Tom, Alexandra, Gabrielle, Lucas , Mercedes, Aimee, Ella, Finlay, Griff and Eli, cherished great-grandfather of Isabelle, respected brother of Mabel and David.

Public funeral service on Friday,

June 19 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1.00pm

Family flowers only, but donations, if desired, to ‘Parkinsons UK’ being received by Colin Phillips and Daughters Funeral Directors, 4 Morgan Street, Cardigan SA43 1DF Tel: 01239 621192.

J ENNIFER M ARY L UCK

PASS ed away peacefully on Wednesday 20th May 2026 at Withybush Hospital Mrs. Jennifer Mary l uck, aged 77 years of Camrose, Haverfordwest.

Beloved Wife of Martin Langrick. Much loved by all the kids Natalie, Tom, Tristan, Marcus, Charlie, Daisy, Barney and George.

The Funeral service will take place on Thursday 11th June 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11:30am.

Following the funeral service refreshments will be served at Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth SA67 7AB

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for World Horse Welfare c/o E. C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 and 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

PAULINE L EWIS

THe death occurred peacefully at home on Tuesday 26th May of Mrs Pauline lewis, affectionately known as ‘Paula’, aged 80 years of St Martins Park, Haverfordwest.

Beloved wife of the late Tom.

Treasured Sister to Jill.

Much loved Mum to Sarah and stepmum to Hilary, Frances and the late Jennifer.

Adored Mamgu to her ten grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

Funeral service will take place at Bethany Free Church, Clarbeston Road on Monday 15th June at 11.00am followed by interment the Church Cemetery.

There will be family flowers only with donations, if so desired for Cancer Research UK or The Paul Sartori Foundation.

c/o E. C. Thomas and Son, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 and 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 or via www. ecthomasandson.co.uk

C ATHERINE M URIEL J AMES

PASSed away peacefully at home on Wednesday 20th May 2026 Mrs. Catherine Muriel James, aged 87 years of king Street, Pembroke dock.

Catherine will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 9th June 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 10:45am. There will be Immediate family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for R.N.L.I Royal National Lifeboat Institution (Tenby branch) c/o E. C. Thomas and Son, 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 and Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

DAVID ‘R OY ’ R OY E VAN W ILLIAMS M.B.E.

Roy, formerly of Pontiago, g oodwick, died at his home on the 14th of May 2026 aged 100.

Husband of the late Alice. Dear father and father-in-law of Paul and Janet. Loving grandfather of Bethan and Adam, Mari and Nathan. Proud great-grandfather of Isabel, Ffion, Joseph and Tomos.

The Funeral will be held on the 20th of June at 11am at The Chapel of Rest, Feidr Castell, Fishguard. Followed by Cremation at Parc Gwyn, Narberth at 1pm.

Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons, Funeral Directors, Fishguard. Tel: 01348 873250.

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British Truck Racing Championship roars into Pembrey for Convoy Cymru festival

five-Tonne racing trucks capable of reaching 100mph will thunder into Pembrey Circuit later this month for the Convoy Cymru Truck Racing festival.

The British Truck Racing Championship will visit the ‘Home of Welsh Motorsport’ on Saturday and Sunday, June 20-21, with five races scheduled across the weekend and a capacity grid of 20 trucks expected.

The championship battle is finely poised after the opening rounds at Brands Hatch and Thruxton, where four different drivers shared victories.

Every point at Pembrey could prove crucial as the drivers make their only visit of the season to Wales.

2011 champion David Jenkins, driving the Jenkins Motorsport Development MAN TGS, arrives at Pembrey leading the premier Division 1 class.

Ryan Smith, in the Worldwide Truck Racing Daimler Freightliner, is just six points behind as he aims to become the first driver to win 11 titles in the premier class.

Ten-time champion Stuart Oliver, driving the Team Oliver Racing Volvo VNL, is only one

point further back in third.

Another driver to watch is Terry Gibbon, who will replace series veteran Richard Collett in the Team Collett Truck Racing MAN TGX. Collett, who claimed a popular victory at Brands Hatch in April, is recovering from major surgery.

In Division 2, reigning champion Jake Evans leads the class for highly modified production-based trucks in his Jake Evans Trucksport MAN TGX.

John Powell, the 2024 Division 2 champion, is second in class in his JP Truck Racing DAF XD, with Bradley Harvey

third in only his second season of truck racing.

Away from the truck racing, the weekend will also feature the Pickup Truck Racing Championship, Audi Cup, Civic Cup, Mini Challenge Trophy and Junior Saloon Car Championship.

There will also be tractor pulling demonstrations on Pembrey’s purpose-built track, as well as funfair rides, monster truck rides, live music, a food village and the circuit’s Formula 1 bar and restaurant.

Phil Davies, Pembrey Circuit Manager, said: “Few forms of motorsport put on a show quite like truck racing and the British Truck Racing Championship never disappoints when it visits Pembrey.

“With the championship battle so finely poised, five spectacular races on the schedule and a capacity grid of trucks expected, all the ingredients are in place for a memorable Convoy Cymru Truck Racing Festival weekend.

“Combined with our packed off-track entertainment programme, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a dedicated motorsport fan or looking for a great family day out.”

Advance tickets cost £22, while children aged 12 and under go free.

More information and tickets are available at pembreycircuit.

Fishguard gears up for first Festival of Sports weekend

fiSHguARd is preparing to welcome athletes, families and spectators next weekend as a brandnew festival of Sports comes to town, bringing races, live entertainment and a post-event celebration to the historic harbour.

Organised by Activity Wales Events, the inaugural Fishguard Festival of Sports will see competitors take part in a series of endurance events set against the backdrop of Pembrokeshire’s dramatic coastline.

The festival promises scenic race routes, historic surroundings and what organisers describe as “incredible spectator support,” with participants encouraged to make a weekend of the occasion.

Among the attractions are commemorative finisher medals, familyfocused participation opportunities and live music taking place across the town throughout the weekend.

One of the more unusual features of the event allows runners to cross the

finish line with their children or loved ones, giving families the chance to celebrate together.

Camping will also be available for visitors travelling to the area, while race registration and number collection will take place from 2:00pm on Friday, June 5, at the Phoenix Centre in Fishguard.

Organisers say entries for the sporting events close on Monday, meaning anyone hoping to take part is being urged to sign up quickly.

The festival is expected to provide a welcome boost for local businesses, with competitors and supporters likely to visit pubs, restaurants and shops across Fishguard and Goodwick during the weekend.

A post-race celebration is planned at The Farmers Arms in Fishguard, where participants and supporters will be able to enjoy live entertainment after the events.

Further details and event registration are available through Activity Wales Events.

Bowen trainers fined after racehorse drug test failures

TWo Pembrokeshire horse trainers from letterston have been fined £5,000 after two racehorses failed post-race drug tests, leading to both animals being stripped of race victories.

Peter and Mickey Bowen, father and brother of champion jockey Sean Bowen, appeared before a British Horseracing Authority disciplinary panel on Thursday (May 28).

The father-and-son training partnership was operating under the same licence at the time of the positive tests, although Mickey Bowen has been the sole licence holder since May 2025.

The pair were fined £4,000 for breaching Rule (K)2.2, which states that no category B substance may be present in a horse’s system on the day it is engaged to run.

They were also fined a further £1,000 for breaching Rule (D)24, which requires trainers to keep clear and accurate records of medication given to horses in their care within 48 hours of treatment.

TWo HoRSeS diSquAlified

The disciplinary action relates to Flying Fortune and Olivers Travels, both of which have now been disqualified from wins in 2024.

Flying Fortune has been stripped of victory in the Grade 2 Persian War Novices’ Hurdle at Chepstow on Friday (Oct 11, 2024).

The race is regarded as one of the key early contests of the National Hunt season, and the win had been

a major success for the Bowen yard.

Racing reports at the time described it as a family affair, with Flying Fortune trained by Peter and Mickey Bowen and ridden by James Bowen. The mare was sent off 2/1 favourite and won by seven-and-ahalf lengths.

However, a post-race urine sample later revealed the presence of procaine, a local anaesthetic.

The race has now been awarded to Intense Approach, trained by John McConnell.

SeCond WinneR loSeS RACe

Olivers Travels has also been

disqualified from a 2m7f handicap chase at Worcester on Wednesday (Aug 21, 2024).

A post-race urine sample revealed the presence of dexamethasone, a corticosteroid commonly used to treat inflammation or allergic reactions.

That race has now been awarded to Galloping Pride, trained by Emma Lavelle.

The BHA said the case was dealt with by way of a plea agreement approved by the independent disciplinary panel.

A BHA statement said: “Following this morning’s hearing before the independent Disciplinary Panel, the Panel has approved a Plea

Agreement.

“The penalty for breaching Rule (K)2.2 is a £4,000 fine and (D)24 a £1,000 fine.

“The two horses involved, Olivers Travels (IRE) and Flying Fortune (IRE), will be disqualified from their respective races at Worcester on 21 August 2024 and Chepstow on 11 October 2024.”

The ruling does not suggest any wrongdoing by the jockeys involved. The disciplinary action was directed at the trainers over the presence of prohibited substances on race day and failures in medication record keeping.

Cresselly stay perfect as Whitland win run-fest

St Ishmaels also picked up a good win, beating Pembroke Dock by four wickets

The Dock made 80-2, with Abi Price unbeaten on 28 and Katie Gibbins making 23 not out. Katie Griffiths added 12.

Tish replied with 81-6, Jo Bradshaw leading the way with 21 and Tracey Chandra adding 11. Katie Griffiths took 2-25 and Katie Gibbins 2-12 for Pembroke Dock.

Division Two

Pembroke proved too strong for Carew, winning by 45 runs after posting 131-1.

Jane Dufresnoy John made 25 not out, Kimberley Barnes 25 not out and Jodie Lewis 28 not out as Pembroke set a challenging total.

CReSSelly maintained their unbeaten start in division one of the Pembrokeshire ladies cricket league with an eight-wicket win over fellow title contenders burton on Wednesday (May 27).

Burton made 90-8, with Rhiannon Morgan-Evans finishing unbeaten on 26 and Finola England making 25 not out.

Cresselly’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout, with Lucy Johnson taking 3-8 and Ava Midgley claiming 3-18.

In reply, Phoenix Phillips made 26 not out and Ffion Ashman 25 not out as Cresselly reached 94-2 in 13.4 overs.

Hook were also convincing winners, beating Haverfordwest by eight wickets.

Haverfordwest were bowled out for 34 against a strong Hook attack, with Kacey Arran taking 3-1, Tia Rees 2-5 and Maddie Potter 2-6.

Hook then reached 35-2, with Potter unbeaten on 12 and Stephanie Martin making 10 not out. Summer Sutton took both wickets for Haverfordwest.

Carew replied with 88-6, Jackie Goodwin and Kirstie Lewis both retiring on 26 not out. Bobbie Neale took 3-14 and Summer Russant 2-18 for Pembroke.

Llangwm edged past Cresselly Seconds by five wickets.

Cresselly Seconds made 86-6, with Teagan Cartwright top-scoring with 24. Daisy Brick took 2-16 for Llangwm, while Zoe Brick and Rosie Thomas also picked up wickets.

Llangwm reached 87-5 with three overs to spare, Pam Asson again showing her consistency with 25 not out. Zoe Brick added 13 and Rosie Thomas 11.

Whitland and Saundersfoot produced the highest-scoring game of the evening, with Whitland winning by ten wickets.

Saundersfoot made 130-3, Talia Evans retiring on 27 not out and Jen Thomas adding 16.

Whitland then raced to 132 without loss, with Lani Hogben making 27 not out, Kelly Evans 28 not out and Angharad Jenkins 28 not out.

It completed an excellent evening for Whitland, who reached their target with four overs still unused.

Thomas c arroll Pembrokeshire league Table

Fixtures 6th June

Divison 1

Carew v Saundersfoot

Herbrandston v Neyland

Lawrenny v Burton

Narberth v Cresselly

Whitland v St Ishmaels

Divison 2

Cresselly II v Johnston

Fishguard v Haverfordwest

Llanrhian v Llangwm

Llechryd v Pembroke

Pem Dock v Hook

Divison 3

Burton II v Laugharne

Haverfordwest II v Hundleton

Lamphey v Kilgetty

Pembroke II v Stackpole

Saundersfoot II v Carew II

Divison

4

Carew III v Llechryd II

Hdwest III v Narberth II

Hook II v Crymych

Neyland II v Herbrandston II

St Ishmaels II v Lawrenny II

Divison 5

Hundleton II v Pembroke Dock II

Llangwm II v Whitland II

Llechryd III v Pembroke III

Divison 6

H’west-Cresselly v Haverfordwest IV

Kilgetty II v Neyland III

Laugharne II v Lamphey II

Fishguard gears up for first Festival of Sports weekend • P83