The Pembrokeshire Herald 08/05/2026

Racial abuse suspect barricaded himself inside Johnston lodge

ARMED police were called to a supported accommodation building in Johnston after a man allegedly barricaded himself inside a room while behaving aggressively and racially abusing staff.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed officers were called to Silverdale Lodge at around 8:55am on Friday (May 2) following reports of disorder involving a resident.

According to police, the man allegedly acted aggressively towards staff members and made racially abusive comments before barricading himself inside a room at the property.

The force said armed officers were deployed to ensure the safety of staff, other occupants and the man himself.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys

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Police said: “Dyfed-Powys Police was called to Silverdale Lodge in Johnston at approximately 8.55am on May 2 following a report of a male behaving in an aggressive manner and being racially abusive towards a member of staff.

“Officers attended the scene and the male had barricaded himself in a room.

“In order to ensure the safety of the male, staff members and other occupants of the building, armed officers attended the scene.

“The man was detained and arrested. There were no injuries to members of staff or officers reported. There is currently no ongoing threat to the public.”Police confirmed Billy

Eleven arrested after four teenagers injured in tenby station incident

ELEVEN people have now been arrested following a serious disorder incident at Tenby railway station in which four teenagers were injured.

Pitman, aged 29, has been charged with racially aggravated public order offences, criminal damage and threats to cause criminal damage in connection with the incident.

Pitman was remanded into custody and appeared before Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Monday (May 4).

We will bring you the court result as we receive it.

Emergency services were called at around 9:50pm on Tuesday (Apr 7), after reports of a disturbance involving a group of people.

Four teenagers, aged between 13 and 17, were taken to hospital. Their injuries were not life-threatening and they have since been discharged.

Police enquiries are continuing.

Llys-y-frân to launch Wales’s largest inflatable aqua park

LLYS-Y-FRÂN Lake is set to make a splash this summer with the launch of what is being billed as Wales’s largest inflatable aqua park.

The new attraction, at the popular reservoir and visitor destination near Clarbeston Road, will feature a floating obstacle course with slides, launch towers, blast bags and other inflatable challenges.

Visitors will be able to enjoy onehour sessions on the water, with safety equipment included in the £25 ticket price.

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, which runs Llys-y-frân Lake, completed the acquisition of the aqua park from Aqua Parks Group in March. Work is now under way to inflate and anchor the multi-component course in the lake ahead of its opening.

The aqua park will open at weekends before the start of the sixweek school holiday period. It will then operate daily during the school holidays, with the season expected to finish in early September.

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James Thompson, Head of Visitor Attractions at Dŵr Cymru, said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of an Aqua Park at Llys-y-frân Lake.

“We look forward to welcoming both holidaymakers and local residents from across West Wales and beyond to experience the Aqua Park.

“This new addition enables visitors to enjoy the water in a safe, fully lifeguarded environment.”

Llys-y-frân Lake, situated north of Haverfordwest in the foothills of the Preseli Mountains, has become one of West Wales’s best-known outdoor attractions.

The site, which includes 350 acres of woodland, grassland and open water, benefited from major investment in 2021 with the opening of a new visitor centre and activity centre. A four-star campsite was added in 2023.

Dŵr Cymru said environmental surveys had been carried out and

indicated that the aqua park was unlikely to have a negative impact on local wildlife. The company said measures were being put in place to protect the lake’s habitats and species.

Recent inland bathing water assessments have also confirmed that Llys-y-frân Lake has excellent water quality. Welsh Water said monitoring would continue throughout the summer bathing season.

A community open day will be held at Llys-y-frân Visitor Centre on Sunday, May 17, from 11:00am to 3:00pm, where plans for the aqua park will be on display and staff will be available to answer questions.

The new attraction will add to the existing activities at Llys-y-frân, which include bike hire, walking and cycling trails, mountain bike routes, a pump track, lakeside café and gift shop.

Further updates on opening dates and the full summer timetable will be published on the Llys-y-frân Lake Facebook and Instagram pages.

Baby in critical condition after Fishguard emergency

A BABY remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition after being taken from Fishguard by air ambulance following a medical emergency at a property.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received information that the baby had been taken to hospital in the early evening of Saturday (May 2).

Police were formally informed of the incident at around 10:10pm the same evening.

An investigation into the circumstances is underway.

A man and a woman, both aged eighteen, were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. They have since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

No further details have been released at this stage.

Tenant says botched wetroom repair left her fearing flooding

Contractor admits preparatory flooring

work ‘did not meet the standards we expect’

A TENANT says she was left “angry, stressed and upset” after work carried out on her wetroom floor allegedly caused further damage and raised concerns about potential flooding.

In an email complaint seen by The Herald, Katie Louise-Howells, from Milford Haven, said her wetroom floor needed replacing after anti-slip flooring “blew”, allowing water to seep underneath the material and into the concrete base.

She claimed a contractor from Cardo was assigned to the job and was in her home for around 30 minutes, leaving behind what she described as an “appalling” standard of workmanship.

The tenant said she contacted Cardo the following morning to complain and requested that a supervisor attend to inspect the work.

She alleged the contractor returned before the supervisor arrived, but she refused to let him continue until the standard of work had been reviewed.

According to the complaint, a supervisor later attended and agreed the work was not to the “best of standards”, but the tenant claimed it was dismissed as a “work in progress”.

The tenant alleged self-levelling compound had been poured over old anti-slip flooring and trim without proper preparation.

She also claimed the material had been spread over her threshold and toilet, and that product had been left outside her home.

She added that her daughter stepped into a half bag of mix which had allegedly been spilled on the driveway.

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DRAiNAgE coNcERNS

The tenant said she later sought advice from WB Griffiths and another self-employed contractor.

She claimed she was told there was now “no other choice” but to have a tray fitted, as the floor had not been properly feathered and there was no proper run for water to drain away.

She said this could potentially lead to flooding issues, and added that she would now like a surround fitted around the tray to help prevent spillages.

“I am so angry,” she wrote.

She said she was not asking for compensation, but wanted the work completed to a “high and good standard” to prevent further problems.

The tenant also claimed Cardo had not admitted fault or apologised.

cARDo RESpoNSE

Responding to the concerns, Rhydian James, Managing Director of Cardo (Wales & West), said: “Cardo carried out preparatory flooring works on behalf of its client.

“We recognise that the work undertaken did not meet the standards we expect, and we are sorry for this.

“Due to scheduling and access challenges, it was agreed with the client that the remaining works would be completed directly by them to help minimise disruption to the resident, and we were therefore unable to return to site to address the issues.

“We have addressed this with those involved to ensure this does not happen again.”

TENANT REMAiNS uNhAppY

After being shown Cardo’s response, the tenant said she remained unhappy with the way the situation had been handled.

She claimed there had been a lack of professionalism throughout and said she felt she had been left to do “all the chasing” because of what she described as vague communication.

She also criticised what she

described as poor working practices, claiming the floor had not been properly prepared and that dust sheets were not used while wet mix was brought into her home.

She further alleged that rubbish and leftover product were left outside her property and on her driveway.

“There was no pride at all,” she added.

The tenant said she is now waiting for the remaining work to be completed and hopes the issues can be resolved quickly to ensure the wetroom is safe and properly finished.

Sir David’s 100th birthday marked with call for kindness to animals

FoLLY Farm has joined animal attractions across the uK in celebrating Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday, with school visits, staff quizzes, new conservation signage and even a newborn alpaca named in his honour.

The much-loved broadcaster turns 100 on Friday (May 8), and the Pembrokeshire attraction said his lifelong work had inspired many of its own keepers and staff to care about endangered species and habitats.

As part of the celebrations, Folly Farm welcomed pupils from Monkton Priory CP School in Pembroke, who spent time with conservation officer Jack learning about endangered and vulnerable animals,

including lions, penguins and rhinos.

The pupils also gathered to sing Penblwydd Hapus to Sir David.

The attraction has also installed a new sign at the entrance to its zoo featuring one of Sir David’s best-known conservation messages: “No one will protect what they don’t care about, and no one will care about what they haven’t experienced.”

Folly Farm said one of its favourite tributes was the naming of a newborn alpaca cria, born on World Earth Day, April 22. The new arrival has been named David Alpacanborough.

The zoo also held staff quizzes, created photo areas with a life-size cutout of “Sir Dai”, and joined other BIAZA

zoos and animal attractions in marking the milestone.

Folly Farm said: “Marking Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday is about more than photos and quizzes. It’s about acknowledging what his life’s work has achieved.

“Every time a child meets an animal up close, asks a question, or sings Penblwydd Hapus to a conservation hero, a seed is planted.

“Every time a keeper chooses this career path because of a documentary they watched growing up, that influence is still working quietly in the world.”

The Pembrokeshire celebrations come as the RSPCA urges the public to mark Sir David’s birthday by taking part in its Summer of Kindness campaign.

The charity is encouraging people to carry out seven simple acts to help animals, including planting flowers for pollinators, making bee drinking stations, feeding hedgehogs, helping pets in hot weather, organising litter picks and creating a basic rescue box for injured small wildlife.

The RSPCA said summer can be a difficult period for animals, with cruelty reports often rising during the warmer months. Last summer, the charity received 34,401 cruelty calls to its emergency line, up by a third on the previous year.

RSPCA wildlife expert Rebecca Machin said: “Sir David Attenborough has inspired generations to fall in love with animals and he has been a lifelong advocate for wildlife.

“His passion, care and voice for conservation has encouraged millions of people, including many across the RSPCA, to dedicate their lives to helping animals.

“As Sir David celebrates this milestone birthday, we’re also celebrating his legacy in changing the way the world sees wildlife, and the importance of animal welfare.

“By taking on seven kind acts for animals as part of our Summer of Kindness, people can give David the best birthday present, by helping animals of every kind, and helping us build a better world for every animal.”

The campaign has particular resonance in Pembrokeshire, where wildlife is central to the county’s identity, from Skomer’s seabirds and coastal habitats to garden birds, hedgehogs, pollinators and farmland species.

The RSPCA’s suggested acts include planting nectar-rich flowers such as lavender, sunflowers and wildflowers, avoiding pesticides, leaving wild patches of grass, putting shallow water dishes out for bees and wildlife, and never leaving pets in cars on warm days.

Rebecca Machin added: “Positive change often starts with simple, everyday actions.

“From helping keep local communities clear of litter, to providing water and safe food for visiting wildlife, we can all get involved in making a big difference for animals.”

Folly Farm added: “If we can keep that sense of awe alive, keep telling the stories of endangered species, and keep making small, steady changes to protect the environment, then we’re doing our bit to carry his legacy forward.

“So, from all of us here, to the man who brought the natural world into our living rooms and into our hearts, happy 100th birthday, Sir David. Thank you for everything.”

Milford Haven woman denies causing suffering to cat

A MiLFoRD hAVEN woman has denied causing unnecessary suffering to her cat by allegedly failing to seek treatment for a cancerous tumour.

Maria Jane Hicks, 61, of Willow End, appeared before Swansea Crown Court accused of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, namely a cat called Max.

The prosecution alleges that between May 6 and May 17, 2023, Hicks failed to obtain veterinary treatment for a tumour on the cat’s nose, resulting in unnecessary suffering.

Hicks previously appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, where she entered a not guilty plea and elected for trial at Crown Court. She repeated her plea when the case came before Swansea Crown Court.

The trial was heard on Tuesday (May 6).

During proceedings, Hicks was asked to retake the oath after the judge said it had not been given correctly the first time, reminding her to state “the whole truth and nothing but the absolute truth.”The jury heard evidence from Ellie West, an animal rescue officer, who told the court she

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attended a welfare check after Max had been staying with one of Hicks’ neighbours, Mrs Jarvis.

West said the cat had dried blood around his nose and alleged Hicks had advised Mrs Jarvis to apply a homemade mixture containing frankincense, turmeric, coconut oil and myrrh.

Veterinary surgeon Jonathan Fitzmorris told the court Max had a body condition score of two out of nine and was approximately 10 per cent underweight. He said the cat was also suffering from severe dental disease, fleas, weeping eyes and an ulcerating wound to the nose.

Asked why he prescribed pain relief, Mr Fitzmorris said ulcerating wounds would be “extremely painful” and added that it should have been obvious veterinary treatment was required.

The court also heard from RSPCA inspector Gemma Cooper, who said the charity had offered to take over Max’s care, but Hicks declined. However, Cooper said Hicks agreed to allow the RSPCA to board the cat

and pay for treatment.

While giving evidence, Hicks became emotional and accused Inspector Cooper of lying. She claimed Cooper had threatened to take Max away and have him put down.

Hicks told the jury she did believe in traditional veterinary treatment, but added that she felt “everything will happen in its own time.”

The trial continues.

Motorist disqualified for drug-driving

A Milford motorist has lost his licence after being caught driving with cannabis in his system.

Cyril Davies, 45, was stopped by officers at approximately 12.45pm on January 6, when they saw his Volkswagen Tiguan being driven along Milford Road in Steynton.

A roadside drugs wipe proved positive while further tests carried out at the police station showed the defendant had 4.4 mcg of Delta-9

tetrahydrocannabinol in his system, the legal limit being 2.

This week Haverfordwest Magistrates Court was told that Davies, of Coombs Drive, Milford Haven, has no previous convictions. He chose to be legally unrepresented in court. After pleading guilty to the drink-driving charge, he was fined £400 and ordered to pay a £160 court surcharge and £85 costs. He was disqualified from driving for 12 months.

Former housing officer admits drink-driving in retail park

A former local authority housing officer has admitted driving through Milford haven town centre when she was almost three times over the legal drink-drive limit.

Julie Askew, 50, was seen drinking from a can of alcohol as she drove her Toyota Aygo in the Havens Head Business Park on the afternoon of April 18. After being arrested by police, Askew was asked to provide breathalyser tests which showed she had no fewer than 91 mcg of alcohol in her system, the legal limit being 35.

This week Askew, of The Chantry, Rosemarket, pleaded guilty to drinkdriving when she appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates Court. She was represented by solicitor Tom Lloyd who informed District Judge Mark Layton that following a 20-year career in the coun’scil housing department, the defendant had suffered a catalogue of grief and trauma.

“Things spiralled out of control,” he said.

“She has been diagnosed with depression and post traumatic stress disorder as a result of events in her life.

“She deeply regrets her actions and is currently addressing her alcohol intake and doing her best to sort out her actions.”

Sentencing the defendant, Judge Layton said the offence had been aggravated by the fact that Askew was driving her vehicle through a busy retail area at 3.30 pm on a weekday afternoon.

“You were also driving whilst consuming alcohol,” he said. “You were going through a difficult time, but I have to consider protecting the public.”

Askew was sentenced to a nine month community order during which she must carry out 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days. She was disqualified from driving for 24 months and fined £120. She must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Police tip-off leads to driving ban for Milford motorist

A pembrokeshire motorist has lost his licence after police received information that the 40-year-old male may have been driving under the influence of drugs.

This week Haverfordwest Magistrates court was told that at around 8.30pm on November 22 officers received a call informing them that Michael Miles was suspected of driving his Peugeot Bipper through Milford Haven after consuming drugs.

Miles was subsequently stopped on Marble Hall Road and when spoken to by the officers, he informed them that he was a drug user. A saliva sample tested positive for cocaine while further tests carried out at the police station showed that Miles had 760 mcg of the cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine in his

system, the legal limit being 50. Miles, of Milford Road, Steynton, chose to be legally unrepresented in court and pleaded guilty to the drug-driving charge.

The probation service said he was very remorseful for the offence and has since had appointments with the Dyfed Drugs and Alcohol Service to help him deal with his drug usage. Miles was served with an interim driving disqualification however as a result of his previous non-payment of fines, his punitive sentencing was adjourned to Thursday, May 7.

“If you pay your outstanding fines before Thursday, you will be fined for this offence,” warned District Judge Mark Layton. “But if you don’t pay, you will be given a custodial sentence.”

Haverfoodfest hailed a success after

hAVERFooDFEST has been hailed a success after bringing crowds, colour and community spirit to haverfordwest town centre on Saturday (May 2).

The annual food and drink festival returned with artisan produce, street food stalls, entertainment and familyfriendly attractions across the town.

County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who represents the Castle Ward, said it had been “brilliant” to help with the event, starting at 7:00am on traffic duties before assisting two of the festival’s popular characters, Mr Pizza Man and Mrs Strawberry, as they made their way around the town.

He said: “What an amazing day we all had, and thanks to everyone involved who made this event such a success, which is only getting bigger and better every year.”

The festival, promoted as “the big one” for 2026, ran from 10:00am to 4:00pm and attracted visitors into the centre of Haverfordwest throughout the day.

Organisers and volunteers helped support the event, which showcased local food, drink and produce while also providing a boost for town centre businesses.

Cllr Tudor thanked those involved, including Alison Tudor, Tim Evans, James Phillips and Cllr Bethan Price, for helping make the day a success.

The event has become one of Haverfordwest’s best-known annual attractions, bringing together traders, volunteers, performers and families for a celebration of local food and community life.

busy day in town centre

Surfers prepare for sewage protest on with another Broad Haven paddle-out

cAMpAigNERS are preparing to take to the water in pembrokeshire as anger continues to grow over sewage pollution affecting Welsh beaches, rivers and bathing waters.

A large banner placed on the seafront by Surfers Against Sewage calls on people to join a “paddle out” at Broad Haven on Saturday, May 16, at 1:30pm.

The demonstration is part of a wider national campaign by Surfers Against Sewage, which has organised paddleout protests across the UK to demand tougher action from water companies, regulators and governments over sewage discharges into rivers and coastal waters.

gRoWiNg ANgER

The protest comes after repeated concerns about water quality around the Welsh coast.

The Herald has previously reported pollution alerts affecting beaches including Newport North, Broad Haven, Dale, West Angle, Barafundle, Manorbier, Tenby Castle Beach, Saundersfoot and Pembrey, with warnings issued after storm sewage discharges within the previous 48 hours.

The issue has also affected major events. In September last year, The Herald reported that a sewage warning

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was issued before the Ironman Wales swim in Tenby, with Surfers Against Sewage alerts in place for Castle Beach, South Beach and Penally after recent discharges in the area.

The swim went ahead, with around 2,700 competitors entering Carmarthen Bay.

Local concern has not been limited to beaches. Only this weekend, The Herald reported that Carmarthen coracle fishermen had raised alarm over suspected sewage pollution entering the River Towy, warning that a centuries-old fishing tradition could be under threat.

puBLic hEALTh FEARS

Campaigners say sewage pollution is not just an environmental issue, but a public health concern for swimmers, surfers, paddleboarders, anglers and families using beaches and rivers.

The Herald has previously reported that Surfers Against Sewage recorded 1,853 illness cases in 2024 linked to contaminated waters across the UK, with concern also raised about poor water quality at locations including Cardigan Bay, New Quay and the Cleddau estuary.

Local carpenter retains driving licence despite previous ban

A hERBRANDSToN carpenter has been allowed to keep his driving licence despite a previous driving disqualification for using his mobile phone whilst driving.

Addressing District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court this week, Simon Shaw stressed the disqualification was having a major impact on his work commitment as well as his ability to support members of his family.

“If the ban continues, at least two of my five employees will have to be lost” said Shaw, who works as a self-

The issue has become increasingly political in Wales. Last month, The Herald reported calls for tougher action on water quality, including proposals for stronger duties on water companies to prevent sewage discharges into rivers, lakes and the sea.

Surfers Against Sewage says its protests are designed to show that coastal and river communities have had enough of pollution, poor accountability and what campaigners see as years of failure to protect bathing waters. Organisers say people do not have to enter the water to take part, with supporters also encouraged to gather on land.

employed carpenter operating from Herbrandston and the Milford Haven Industrial Estate.

“We travel throughout the whole of West Wales and also work at Thorne Island, where we’ve been providing logistical support for renovations for the last four years.”

Shaw, of Triplestone Close, Herbrandston, went on to say that his business has only one other driver who works as a reserve fire fighter.

“As a result, he’s not available to provide the 24 hour cover we provide to various care homes in the county,” he said.

Simon Shaw concluded by stating that his daughter is also dependent on his support having recently given birth to twins while his son-in-law and his partner’s mother are both currently undergoing serious healthcare treatments.

“I’m trying to provide as much logistical support for them as I can, but without my driving licence, this is impossible,” he said.

After listening to his comments, Judge Layton granted Shaw permission to retain his licence.

70-year-old denies assault and restraining order breach

A pENSioNER from pembroke Dock has denied breaching a restraining order and assaulting another man.

Henry Howlett, 70, of Market Street, appeared before Swansea Crown Court today (Friday, May 1), charged with breaching a restraining order and common assault.

The charges relate to an alleged incident on November 9 last year.

Howlett has previously appeared before magistrates in connection with a separate alleged incident involving a neighbour.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court previously heard that a dispute arose on July 17 after neighbour Steven Bromhall was washing his car outside his home in Market Street.

Prosecutor Nia James told the court that, as a taxi arrived to collect Howlett, the driver opened the window while passing and Mr Bromhall inadvertently sprayed the taxi driver with water from a hosepipe.

“The taxi driver started remonstrating, and the defendant then began waving his walking stick in the air, towards Mr Bromhall,” she said.

The court heard Mr Bromhall

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sustained an injury to his back, although it remained unclear whether he had been struck by Howlett’s stick.

Howlett pleaded not guilty to common assault in relation to that incident and was released on unconditional bail. A trial date was set at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

At Swansea Crown Court today, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC asked Howlett whether he was legally represented.

“I can’t find anyone decent, I’m still searching, my lord,” Howlett replied.

When the court attempted to take his pleas, Howlett repeatedly interrupted in an effort to give an explanation, prompting the judge to tell him: “Be quiet, Mr Howlett.”

Howlett then pleaded not guilty to the charges, telling the court: “Definitely not guilty.”

As he left the courtroom, Howlett said: “I will get the truth out and I hope you all hang your heads in shame… this is all fixed.”

A trial date was set for January 14, 2027

Tenby lifeboats called out five times in ‘exceptionally busy’ week

TENBY lifeboat crews have been called out five times in a week, dealing with a series of incidents around the south pembrokeshire coast.

The latest launch came just before 5:30pm on Sunday (May 3), when the inshore lifeboat was sent to Monkstone Point following a report that people may have been cut off by the tide.

As the volunteer crew arrived on scene, it was confirmed that the people were fishing and did not require assistance. The lifeboat was stood down and returned to station.

The call-out was the station’s fifth shout of the week.

On Friday (May 1), the all-weather lifeboat launched shortly after 10:00am after the occupants of a 21ft pleasure boat reported engine failure between Lydstep and Giltar.

The lifeboat arrived around ten minutes later and found the vessel at risk of drifting onto rocks. The crew decided the safest option was to tow it back to Saundersfoot.

With the tide out, the vessel was moored in the bay and those on board were taken ashore using the lifeboat’s Y-boat, where they were

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met by Tenby Coastguard Rescue Team. The lifeboat returned to station at 11:25am.

On Wednesday (Apr 29), the inshore lifeboat was launched shortly after 4:30pm after a report that a kitesurfer appeared to be in difficulty between Tenby and Caldey Island. The crew searched the reported area and extended the search towards Giltar Point, but no one in difficulty was found.

Earlier in the week, both Tenby lifeboats were launched at 6:15pm on Monday (Apr 27) after a report that two people may have been cut off by the tide at Gilman Point, near Pendine.

The all-weather lifeboat arrived first, with choppy conditions slowing the inshore lifeboat. Coastguard rescue team members on the cliffs above directed the crew to two people on rocks.

The Y-boat was launched and the pair confirmed they were in difficulty. They were taken aboard and brought ashore at Pendine,

where Coastguards were waiting. The inshore lifeboat also collected the casualties’ bags before returning them ashore.

The busy week came as three Tenby RNLI volunteers — Eddie, Alice and Jack — successfully completed their ALB tier one pass-out on Sunday.

Tenby Lifeboats RNLI congratulated the trio, saying: “Well done guys.”

Lifeboat launched after pleasure boat suffers engine failure off Tenby

A 21ft pLEASuRE boat was towed to safety after suffering engine failure between Lydstep and giltar.

TENBY’S all-weather lifeboat was requested to launch shortly after 10:00am on Friday (May 1), after the occupants of the vessel reported that they had lost engine power.

The volunteer crew were quickly on the water and arrived at the scene around 10 minutes later.

After speaking with those on board,

and with the boat in danger of drifting onto rocks, the crew decided the safest course of action was to tow the vessel back towards Saundersfoot.

Once at Saundersfoot, and with the tide out, the pleasure boat was moored in the bay. Its occupants were then taken ashore using the lifeboat’s Y-boat, where they were met by members of Tenby Coastguard Rescue Team.

The lifeboat returned to station at 11:25am.

One lamb rescued after dramatic Stack Rocks operation

oNE of the two lambs stranded below the cliffs at Stack Rocks has tonight been rescued by RNLi volunteers and coastguard crews.

The animals had reportedly been trapped on a narrow stretch of beach since Friday after falling from the cliffs near the Castlemartin Range.

Launching an inshore lifeboat, crews carefully navigated into one of the bays beneath the cliffs before crossing rocks to search the area where the lambs had last been seen.

Local tree surgeon Callum Jones, of Mighty Oaks Tree Care, had also been preparing a rope rescue operation involving a planned 150foot descent and remained on standby to assist if needed.

After a search, one lamb was found exhausted and hungry but alive. Crews secured the animal and brought it safely back to the boat.

Despite extensive efforts, the second lamb could not be located.

Fire service sets out new flood response plan for Mid and West Wales

ARouND 31,000 properties across Mid and West Wales are at risk of flooding, according to figures released as part of a new fire service response strategy.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service has completed a major engagement process to shape how it deals with future flooding incidents.

The work brought together operational crews, partner agencies and community representatives through a series of “Flooding Balanced Room” workshops.

The service said the aim was to make sure all voices were heard equally while developing practical options for prevention, response and recovery.

Nearly 24,000 properties in the service area are at risk from river flooding, while more than 7,000 are at risk from tidal flooding.

The service attends around 300 water rescue and weather-related flooding incidents each year.

Officials say flooding is becoming more frequent and more serious because of climate change, including heavier rainfall and prolonged weather events.

Recent data also shows a clear seasonal pattern, with the highest number of flooding incidents taking place between October and February.

The third quarter of 2025/26 was the busiest for flooding incidents since 2017/18, while February 2020 and November 2025 recorded the highest monthly levels of flooding activity.

The workshops produced four key priorities: prevention first, collaboration

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and partnership, enhanced specialist capability, and learning and continuous improvement.

Eleven initial options were narrowed down to five main areas.

These include better public education, community flood groups, improved flood messaging with partner agencies, more staff training, improved welfare and PPE for firefighters, better vehicles and technology, and stronger

post-incident support for communities.

Proposals include using flood awareness in home fire safety checks, improving training scenarios, increasing the number of qualified water incident managers, expanding drone use, and using climate data to plan future fleet and equipment needs.

The options have now been assessed, with recommendations presented to the service’s Executive Leadership Team.

The plans will feed into the service’s future flooding strategy and its Community Risk Management Plan

2040.

Iwan Cray, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The Flooding Balanced Room process has highlighted the importance of collaboration.

“By listening to our staff, partners, and communities, we’ve created practical, forward-thinking solutions that will strengthen our ability to prevent and manage flooding in Mid and West Wales.

“Together, we can build a safer, more resilient Wales.”

West Wales coracle fishermen raise alarm over suspected sewage pollution

A CENTURIES-old fishing tradition on the River Towy could be under threat after coracle fishermen reported suspected sewage pollution entering the water near carmarthen.

The Carmarthen Coracle and Netsmen’s Association said members discovered foul-smelling waste when they went to the river on Friday night, just as the traditional coracle fishing season was getting under way.

The season begins on May 1 and runs until late July. Coracle fishing, once widespread in Wales, is now largely limited to the Towy, Teifi and Taf.

SuSpEcTED BuRST MAiN

The association shared images and video on Facebook on Saturday (May 2), saying members had traced the pollution to a suspected burst rising main on a stretch of the river running through Carmarthen, parallel to the A40. They said fields leading to the valve were coated with remnants of toilet paper and faeces, with waste “pouring directly into the river”.

The group said members of the public had told them the problem may have been ongoing since the previous weekend.

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water later said it

was responding to an incident affecting the River Towy at Pensarn, Carmarthen, caused by a burst rising main.

RiVER MoNiToRiNg

The company said the affected pipe had been isolated and tankers were in place to manage flows while repairs were carried out.

A spokesperson said teams were on site and working as quickly as possible, adding that water quality testing was being carried out upstream and downstream of the location.

The company apologised for the incident and said it understood the concern caused to the local community.

TRADiTioN uNDER pRESSuRE

The coracle association said the pollution could have a serious impact on wildlife and on a tradition which has existed for more than a thousand years.

They said: “Our reports are falling on deaf ears and repeated pollution is killing not only the river, but a tradition that has been here for over a thousand years.”

Members also reported seeing further pollution entering the river near the Mekatek outlet close to Towy Bridge.

Natural Resources Wales encouraged the incident to be reported, with the association saying it had already contacted NRW and requested confirmation on whether officers had visited the site to take samples or check wildlife.

puBLic ANgER

The post prompted anger from members of the public, with some claiming sewage smells had been present in the area for weeks.

Others called for politicians and regulators to take stronger action, saying water companies should not be allowed to pollute rivers while bills continue to rise.

Figures released by Natural Resources Wales last year showed Dŵr Cymru was responsible for 155 pollution incidents in 2024, with most linked to sewerage assets.

The company has also faced wider scrutiny over pollution incidents affecting Welsh rivers, including the River Wye and River Usk catchments.

Fatal crash appeal after driver dies on A44

poLicE are appealing for witnesses after a driver died in a crash on the A44.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the collision happened at around 6:10pm on Tuesday (May 5) on the A44 between Capel Bangor and Goginan, near Aberystwyth

The crash involved a single vehicle, a white Volkswagen Golf, which was travelling eastbound towards Goginan when it left the carriageway.

Sadly, the driver died at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed

and are being supported by specialist officers.

Police confirmed there were no other passengers in the vehicle.

Officers are now asking anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101.

Tenby phone signal crisis goes national as businesses warn of summer disruption

TENBY’S long-running mobile phone signal crisis has become a national story, with businesses and visitors warning that poor coverage is now affecting card payments, taxi bookings and the town’s reputation as a major tourist destination.

The seaside town, one of Wales’ best-known holiday hotspots, has been named as having the worst mobile network quality in the UK, with consumer group Which? reporting that users in the SA70 postcode experience a good connection only 54.3 per cent of the time.

The problem has been made worse by the decommissioning of a local phone mast earlier this year, affecting O2, Vodafone and Three customers.

The Herald has repeatedly reported concerns from residents, traders and visitors, including more than 500 complaints gathered through a public appeal by Around Tenby and Tenby Chamber of Trade & Tourism.

Businesses say the issue is no longer just an inconvenience, but a serious trading problem.

Taxi drivers have reported missing bookings because messages cannot be answered in the town centre, while shops and hospitality venues say customers are sometimes unable to pay by card.

season, when tens of thousands of visitors can be in and around the town on busy days.

Some said the lack of signal would make them think twice about returning.

Mobile operators have apologised and said work is ongoing to find a solution.

O2 said the issue was linked to a decommissioned local mast and that Vodafone, its infrastructure partner, was working to locate and install a replacement. Vodafone and Three said they were exploring temporary options while working on a longerterm fix.

EE, which was not involved in the removal of the mast, said it was looking at ways to improve connectivity in Tenby and the wider area, including upgrades at an existing mast site in Penally.

Local MP Henry Tufnell has already written to telecoms operators demanding answers, after being told that the removal of the Slippery Back Lane mast had left parts of Tenby with very limited mobile signal.

Campaigners say the pressure is now on for a temporary fix before the height of the tourism season, rather than waiting months or years for a permanent replacement.

One Tenby taxi driver told BBC Wales that the town had become a signal “dead zone”, adding that he had begun warning customers that some journeys may have to be cashonly because card machines cannot connect reliably.

Retailers have also warned that tourists who cannot make a payment often say they will “come back later” — but never do.

The issue is particularly acute as Tenby prepares for the summer

Pembrokeshire’s visitor economy is worth hundreds of millions of pounds a year, and Tenby remains one of the county’s flagship destinations.

But visitors interviewed by the BBC said they had struggled to call taxis, check the weather or keep in touch with work while staying in the town.

The Herald understands traders are continuing to gather evidence from residents, visitors and businesses to present to mobile networks.

For many in Tenby, the message is simple: a town that helps sell Wales to the world should not be left struggling to make a phone call.

Police asked to investigate alleged ‘sabotage’ of Senedd candidate’s campaign

iNDEpENDENT Senedd candidate

paul haywood-Dowson has contacted Dyfed-powys police alleging that his election campaign was deliberately disrupted less than 24 hours before polling day.

In an email sent on Wednesday afternoon (May 6) to the force’s Electoral Fraud and Malpractice Single Point of Contact (SPOC), Mr Haywood-Dowson claimed a marketing contractor had taken possession of 4,000 election leaflets and then stopped responding to communications.

Mr Haywood-Dowson, who is standing in the Ceredigion Penfro constituency, alleged the actions amounted to “criminal sabotage of election material” under Section 115 of the Representation of the People Act 1983.

He wrote: “I am formally reporting a criminal interference in the election occurring right now.”

The candidate claimed a Liverpool-

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

based contractor had collected the leaflets and accepted £252 in payment before allegedly failing to deliver or return them.

Mr Haywood-Dowson stated: “By taking physical possession of my flyers and refusing to deliver or return them 24 hours before the poll, he has used a ‘fraudulent device or contrivance’ to prevent the free exercise of the franchise by my potential voters.”

He further alleged: “This is not a delivery delay. It is Theft by Deception.”

The email requested a crime reference number and asked police to contact the contractor “immediately” to secure the return of the campaign material.

The Herald has contacted DyfedPowys Police and the contractor, who we are not naming at this stage, for comment.

Bishop’s report reveals major renewal challenge at St Davids Cathedral

ST DAViDS cAThEDRAL is facing a period of major renewal after a formal Bishop’s Visitation identified financial, structural, leadership and spiritual challenges at one of Wales’ most important religious and historic landmarks.

The report, published by the Diocese of St Davids on Friday (May 1), marks a significant moment for the cathedral, which is both the mother church of the diocese and one of Wales’ most recognisable places of pilgrimage.

The Bishop of St Davids, the Right Reverend Dorrien Davies, said the Visitation had been carried out as a “pastoral and constructive act” intended to support the Dean, Chapter, staff and wider cathedral community.

But the wording of the report makes clear that the cathedral is facing serious and practical pressures, including the need to strengthen its finances, protect the fabric of the ancient building, improve leadership structures, and renew its mission.

The Bishop said the purpose of the Visitation was to “direct and encourage ministry” and to enable a “faithful, practical response to the very real needs of the Cathedral — financial, structural, missional, and spiritual.”

ExEcuTiVE coMMiTTEE cREATED

One of the most significant developments is the creation of a

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new Executive Committee, which has already been put in place following the Visitation process.

The Bishop said this was intended to support leadership, improve focus, and maintain momentum in dealing with urgent priorities.

He said the move showed “a willingness to engage seriously with

despite its historic status and national importance, had rightly been invited to undergo the same prayerful scrutiny as every other part of the diocese.

He said such scrutiny was “not a sign of failure, but of care and hope for the future.”

That wording suggests the cathedral is not being treated as exempt from wider pressures facing the Church in Wales, including falling attendance, financial strain, ageing buildings and the need to rethink ministry for the future.

pRAiSE FoR STAFF

The report also contains strong praise for cathedral staff and departments.

The Bishop singled out Chris Crooks, the Dean’s Verger, and the vergers’ team, describing their work as “exemplary” and praising their role in worship, safety, and the care of the building.

the issues raised and to respond in a practical and timely way.”

The report adds that it is important this momentum is sustained, and that the recommendations are progressed with “clarity, purpose and due urgency.”

Although the Bishop stresses that the report was not written to criticise for its own sake, the language points to a cathedral at a crossroads, with governance and long-term planning now central to its future.

ANciENT BuiLDiNg

St Davids Cathedral is one of the most important Christian sites in Wales. It is a centre of worship, a focus for pilgrimage, a major visitor attraction, and a building of deep historical and spiritual significance.

The Bishop describes it as a “physical and visible sign of the Christian presence in this land — locally, nationally, and internationally.”

But ancient cathedrals are costly to maintain, and the report makes clear that the preservation of the building is now a major concern.

The Bishop refers to a detailed presentation by architect Andrew Faulkner and archaeologist Ross Cook, setting out a long-term vision for repair and preservation of the cathedral fabric.

He described that presentation as “both inspiring and reassuring”, saying it showed that careful and hopeful planning for the future was already underway.

The reference to fabric repairs is likely to raise questions about the scale of work needed, the likely cost, and whether further fundraising will be required.

WiDER chuRch pRESSuRES

The Visitation also sits within the wider context of the Diocese of St Davids’ “Pruning for Growth” strategy.

The Bishop said the cathedral,

He also praised the cathedral’s music, led by Simon Pearce and Laurence John, describing it as “one of its most powerful forms of proclamation.”

The Education and Pilgrimage department was also recognised, with particular thanks given to Janet Ingram for her work at Ty’r Pererin and her contribution to education at the cathedral as she enters retirement.

The Bishop also thanked librarian Mari James, the Friends of St Davids Cathedral, and advisers Arwel Davies and Medwin Hughes for their contributions.

DEAN BAcKED

The Bishop said he was especially grateful to the Dean for her cooperation throughout the process.

He said he wished to affirm her continuing leadership and her commitment to guiding the life and mission of the cathedral.

He added that he was confident in her resolve to lead with “openness, collaboration and faithful service.”

However, the creation of new leadership structures and the call for greater urgency suggest that the cathedral is now entering a period of closer oversight and reform.

The Bishop said the Visitation should be seen as an invitation to renewal, deeper collaboration and faithful courage.

He said: “Failure to recognise the positive developments emerging from this Visitation — or to read between the lines the appreciation of what is already being undertaken — would be to misunderstand why this Visitation was called.”

The Herald has asked the Diocese of St Davids whether the full financial position of the cathedral will be made public, what repair work has been identified, and what specific recommendations will now be taken forward.

Game of Thrones Jerome Flynn call to stop DARC space radar

gAM oF ThRoNES star Jerome Flynn has called for the controversial DARc ‘space radar’ scheme at pembrokeshire’s cawdor Barracks to be halted.

In an application recently submitted to Pembrokeshire county Council following a public consultation, the Ministry of Defence wants to install 27 radar antenna and a long list of associated works at Cawdor Barracks, Brawdy for a worldwide network of sensors called the Deep Space Advanced Radar Concept (DARC) to track active satellites and other objects which would utilise three sites worldwide, part of the AUKUS trilateral security partnership, in the USA, the UK and Australia “enabling 360-degree coverage of the sky at all times of day and under any weather conditions”.

In late 2023, Cawdor Barracks was identified as the preferred UK site by the-then UK Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps.

A supporting statement says of the DARC scheme: “This capability is critical to protect and defend the services provided by satellites, ensuring continuity and resilience against collisions or debrisrelated incidents.

“Without DARC, the UK faces a significant risk of losing access to these vital services, which would have severe consequences for national security, economic stability, and public safety.”

It says the scheme would create 90 full time equivalent construction jobs, and, when operational, will result in the creation of 60 full time equivalent jobs including operation, maintenance and security staff.

St Davids City Council members recently unanimously opposed the preapplication consultation proposals, and public objectors have raised concerns with protests recently taking place outside the barracks and County Hall, Haverfordwest, and Labour Senedd candidate Eluned Morgan has called for the scheme to be put on hold while Donald Trump is President of the USA.

Pembrokeshire-based Jerome Flynn, who was first famous for his roles in Soldier Soldier, Robson & Jerome and more recently Game Of Thrones has entered the fray surrounding the controversial DARC Radar via a social media video.

In the video Flynn describes voting in the upcoming Senedd election as; “probably the most crucial vote we’ve made in 25 years”, saying that whoever gets into the Senedd will have the power to block DARC Radar, referring to the project as “the most unspeakably abominable planning application led by the US military, backed by Donald Trump to place 27 radar dishes right on the edge of our beloved coastal national park”.

Campaigners against the scheme, PARC Against DARC said: “Whichever party or parties form the next Senedd administration following Thursday’s election will have at their disposal a mechanism known as ‘Calling in’ the planning application.”

Any ‘calling in’ could mean the final decision on the DARC scheme is made by Welsh Government.

Campaigners have previously warned

Milford motorist disqualified for drug-driving

A Milford motorist has lost his licence after being caught driving with cannabis in his system.

Cyril Davies, 45, was stopped by officers at approximately 12.45pm on January 6, when they saw his Volkswagen Tiguan being driven along Milford Road in Steynton.

A roadside drugs wipe proved positive while further tests carried out at the police station showed the defendant had 4.4

that if built, DARC radar would make Pembrokeshire a first priority military target and would give Trump and the US the capability to dominate space from Wales.

“With a Chinese government-aligned source calling DARC a ‘significant escalation’, the US in yet another illegal war this time in Iran, and DARC confirmed by the US as the ground radar part of a weapons system designed to target space

assets, there’s little sign DARC would be for anything else but fuelling decades of US aggression that Wales should have no part of.

“This time they’re trying to use our peninsula to weaponise space, as if Earth isn’t already weaponised enough.”

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

mcg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system, the legal limit being 2.

This week Haverfordwest Magistrates Court was told that Davies, of Coombs Drive, Milford Haven, has no previous convictions. He chose to be legally unrepresented in court. After pleading guilty to the drink-driving charge, he was fined £400 and ordered to pay a £160 court surcharge and £85 costs. He was disqualified from driving for 12 months.

Appeal launched after pigeon shot with air gun

AN AppEAL has been launched after an injured pigeon was found on charles Street, Milford haven after being shot through its wing bone with an air gun,

The bird was discovered by a member of the public on April 21 and was taken to All Pets Vet Care.

This incident follows a previous RSPCA appeal as several cats were shot by an air gun in the Hakin area in March. At least one cat died and three were injured.

When examined by a veterinary surgeon, the pigeon was found to have a wound on his left wing, with infection and lots of swelling. A subsequent radiograph showed that a pellet had shattered through its wing bones.

“As a result the pigeons sadly had to be euthanised,” commented Dr Cethin Ravenhill of the All Pets Vet Care. “The RSPCA were informed and as far as I’m aware, this is the only bird we’ve treated with this type of injury “

Meanwhile staff have been asked to radiograph any more injured birds brought in to the veterinary practice.

“I am so shocked and saddened that any individual 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,” added Dr Ravenhill. “This leads to a slow and painful death and significant suffering.

“It’ss very upsetting to think there is someone in the local area doing this to both cats, and sadly pigeons.”

RSPCA Cymru fears other cats and wildlife may have been targeted and is now calling on the community to look out for any suspicious behaviour and report potential offences.

RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben, who is investigating the incident, said:

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

“We are extremely concerned about reports of a pigeon and cats being deliberately targeted and killed in this way.

“Our hearts go out to the owners and to anyone who has been involved or discovered an animal injured in this way.

“It is always very distressing to think that people may be taking pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals.

“Unfortunately at the moment we only have limited information and so we hope an appeal for information will help with our enquiries.

“We would urge anyone who saw what happened, or who may have any further information, to please get in touch with us as soon as possible. We would also ask parents and carers to speak and educate young people about this.”

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

Deliberately injuring or killing wild birds is a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Athe RSPCA appeals line number on 0300 123 8018 and refer to incident number 01794965.

Every year the RSPCA receives almost 1,000 calls to investigate cases, and help hundreds of animals that are the victims of air gun attacks.

Cats and wildlife are the animals most vulnerable to being shot simply because they are out in the open with

Job loss threat for convicted

A RouTiNE police check has resulted in a drug-driving conviction for haverfordwest resident Nima hajiaghaee after he was found with Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system.

This week Haverfordwest magistrates were told that Hajiaghaee, 36, was stopped at around 10.30 am on January 19 as he drove his Peugeot van along Dredgemans Hill heading towards Johnston A roadside breath test proved positive for cannabis while further samples gave a reading of 5.3, the legal limit being 2.

Hajiaghaee pleaded guilty to the charge and chose to legally represent himself before District Judge Mark Layton.

Addressing the judge, the defendant accepted full responsibility for his actions but stressed that a mandatory driving ban is likely to have a considerable impact

no one to protect them. Unfortunately, air rifle attacks are not as rare as the charity would like. The injuries caused by such attacks can be horrific and often fatal.

Keith added: 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.”

Pembrokeshire drug-driver

on his employment with a specialist installation company.

“My job involves improving living conditions for elderly and vulnerable people and means I regularly have to travel across the UK,” he said. “This is extremely specialist work and depends on my ability to drive.

“I’m now worried about the spiraling financial consequences as a result of a disqualification.

“I’ve reflected seriously on the incident and realise the importance of road safety. It’s had a significant impact on me and I can assure the court I will not find myself in this situation again.”

Hajiaghaee, of Cleddau Avenue, Haverfordwest, was disqualified from driving for 12 months. He was fined £600 and ordered to pay a £240 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Pembrokeshire Lydstep Beach Village development refused

A cALL for an extra sign advertising a pembrokeshire holiday park, adding to exiting unauthorised ones, which planners say would create “visual clutter and intrusion” and a distraction to drivers, has been refused.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, permission was sought, through Lakeside Signs Limited, for an additional sign advertising Haven’s Lydstep Beach Village, near Tenby, the sign proposed for North Lodge where the holiday park joins the main road.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s highways authority raised no concerns regarding the specific location of the sign, but said “there remains a broader concern regarding the cumulative impact of signage along this section of highway,” adding: “The increasing proliferation of signs in this location has the potential to create a visually cluttered environment, which may distract drivers and, in turn, give rise to road safety implications.”

A Park officer report recommending refusal said: “Currently, there are eight flagpoles, one A-frame banner type sign, one pole mounted panel sign, and a further panel sign, located behind the stone wall on the western side of the park’s entrance. None

of these advertisements have the benefit of advertisement consent.”

It added: “The increasing number of signs in this location has the potential to create a distraction to drivers, which may result in road safety implications. In addition, the proliferation of signage would create clutter that would result in visual intrusion in this countryside location affecting amenity. As such, the recommendation is to refuse.”

It went on to say: “Whilst it is not deemed that the proposed advertisement would result in harm being caused to the specific special qualities of this area, there are concerns that the display of this advertisement would, along with the remainder of the advertisements, which are unauthorised, result in a proliferation of advertisements, which in turn would cause visual clutter and intrusion.

“This is especially problematic in a countryside location where development is strictly controlled.

Should the existing signage be consolidated and rationalised, the Authority may support the proposed sign, however, currently, any additional signage would not be deemed appropriate.”

The application was refused on the grounds that it would, along with the exiting signage, “result in visual clutter and intrusion which would detract from the visual amenity of this countryside location, and would result in potential distraction to drivers, which in turn would rise to road safety implications”.

Milford Haven Town Council Continues Support for Paul Sartori Hospice at Home

M i LF o RD h AVEN T o WN

cou N ci L has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local residents by awarding funding to p aul Sartori h ospice at h ome following a successful application for financial assistance.

The £500 contribution will help support the ongoing delivery of vital day and night home nursing care for

people receiving end-of-life care in the Milford Haven area.

The Mayor of Milford Haven, Councillor William Elliott, said: “It is a privilege for Milford Haven Town Council to continue supporting this important and vital service, which provides much-needed care and

reassurance to residents in our community when it is needed most.

The work of Paul Sartori is incredibly important, and we thank them for all they do — not only for people in Milford Haven, but across the whole county.”

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home is a registered charity providing high-quality end-of-life care and a wide range of free services to

individuals and families throughout Pembrokeshire. Through an open referral system, patients, carers, and family members can access specialist clinical care, emotional support, guidance, and practical assistance, with many services delivered directly in patients’ homes.

A cheque for £500 was presented by the Mayor of Milford Haven to Judith Williams, Grant Development Officer at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home.

Judith Williams said: “We are extremely grateful to Milford Haven Town Council and its councillors for their continued support. Donations such as this make a real difference locally, helping us provide compassionate, dignified care to people in Milford Haven at the end of life.

Support from town and community councils not only helps sustain essential nursing services, but also reflects the strong partnership between Paul Sartori and the communities we serve. We truly value this ongoing commitment.”

The Paul Sartori nursing team currently provides approximately 150 hours of care each month within the Milford Haven area. Funding from Milford Haven Town Council will directly support local residents, enabling them to remain at home and receive professional, compassionate care surrounded by loved ones.

Alongside day and night nursing care, the charity also offers equipment loans, complementary therapies, bereavement and counselling support, and future care planning services — all free of charge and designed to maintain dignity, comfort, and independence for patients and families.

Families across Pembrokeshire living with a life-limiting illness can benefit from Paul Sartori Hospice at Home services. However, as a charitable organisation, the service relies heavily on the generosity of local communities, supporters, and fundraising initiatives to continue delivering this essential care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home is encouraging town and community councils across Pembrokeshire to consider supporting the charity to help ensure high-quality end-of-life care remains accessible throughout the county.

Landlords in Wales face new anti-discrimination laws

LANDLoRDS in Wales are being warned to prepare for new antidiscrimination laws which come into force at the beginning of June.

From Monday, June 1, it will be unlawful for landlords and letting agents to discriminate against prospective contract-holders because they have children or receive benefits.

The change follows the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which mainly reforms renting law in England, but also extends key anti-discrimination protections into Wales.

The Welsh provisions will be incorporated into the Renting Homes framework and will apply to occupation contracts. Unlike the civil penalty regime used in England, breaches in Wales may amount to a criminal offence, with enforcement handled by local authorities and cases dealt with through the courts.

WhAT LANDLoRDS cANNoT Do

From June 1, landlords and agents must not deter people from applying for a property because they have children or receive benefits.They must also not refuse or restrict access to viewings, prevent prospective tenants from receiving information about a property, or exclude them from entering into an occupation contract on those grounds.

The measures are aimed at ending blanket “no children” or “no benefits” policies, which campaigners have long argued unfairly shut families and lowincome households out of the private rented sector.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Landlords will still be allowed to carry out affordability checks and assess whether a property is suitable.

For example, a landlord may still decide that a particular room or property is physically unsuitable for children, but the decision must be based on the property itself rather than a blanket ban.

pApERWoRK DEADLiNE

Under the new rules, landlords will need to issue either a new occupation contract or a statement of variation to reflect the changes.

The statement can be served up to fourteen days after the rules take effect, meaning landlords should act

Delivery driver caught twice over legal limit

A delivery driver has been banned from the roads after being caught behind the wheel when he was over twice the legal drink-drive limit.

Twenty-nine year old Sam Rowe was stopped by officers just before 9.30 am on April 20 as he drove his Vauxhall Vivaro along Ferry Lane in Pembroke Dock.

“His speech was slurred and his eyes were bloodshot,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest Magistrates Court this week.

“There was also a strong smell of intoxicants emanating from him.”

When spoken to by the officers, Rowe stated he’d drunk a pint of alcohol approximately an hour before being stopped, however subsequent breathalyser tests showed he had no less than 75 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

Rowe, of Hazel Close, Pontypool, pleaded guilty to the offence and was represented in court by solicitor Michael Kelleher who informed the court that the defendant was holidaying in Pembrokeshire at the time of the offence.

“His daughter fell ill and he was attempting to find painkillers for her at a supermarket,” he said. “He’s very remorseful and is now going to lose his job as a delivery driver.”

Rowe, who has no previous convictions, was disqualified from driving for a total of 20 months. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.

by

June

14.

Leading North Wales estate and lettings agent Cavendish, which has offices in Mold and Ruthin, says it has been advising landlords ahead of the deadline.

Nicola Blake, Operations Director at Cavendish, said: “While much of the focus in recent months has been on the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act in England, some of the changes are also impacting Wales.

“As of June 1, landlords in Wales

will be subject to stringent antidiscrimination laws and failure to adhere to the new legislation could result in a criminal prosecution.”

She added: “This is a significant change for landlords in Wales, and we are helping our clients to be ready well ahead of the deadline, completing the required paperwork and ensuring they are fully compliant.”

LANDLoRD SEMiNAR

Cavendish will hold a seminar later this year for landlords in Wales, covering legislative changes and advice on managing and improving property portfolios.

The event will take place on Monday, October 26, at Theatr Clwyd. Cavendish recently became a Gold Member of the Mold arts venue.

Cavendish was established in 1993 by Julian Adams, the firm’s chairman, and his then business partner Robert Ikin.

The company now employs more than thirty people across estate agency and lettings, with offices in Mold, Ruthin and Chester. It says it helps more than 600 homeowners move each year and manages around 650 properties.

Foster carers share powerful breakthrough moments

pEMBRoKEShiRE foster carers have spoken about the small but powerful moments that show children in their care are beginning to feel safe, supported and able to trust again.

The comments have been shared as part of Foster Care Fortnight, the UK’s largest annual campaign to raise awareness of fostering, which runs from Monday, May 11 to Sunday, May 24.

This year’s theme, This is Fostering, focuses on the real experiences of foster carers and the vital role they play in helping children recover from trauma.

For many children who enter care, trauma can lead to anxiety, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, difficulties with boundaries,

or problems following rules.

A national survey commissioned by Foster Wales found that around 80% of carers questioned had supported children showing behaviour of this kind.

However, half of those surveyed said they had seen a meaningful breakthrough within the first six months.

These moments can be simple, such as a child laughing, talking about their day, asking to watch a film, or opening up about something that has happened to them.

But for foster carers, they can mean much more. They are often signs that a child is beginning to feel

safe, loved and supported.

Almost all carers questioned, 93%, said that with experience, support and professional guidance, they now feel confident responding to traumarelated behaviour.

Pembrokeshire foster carer Lynda, who has been fostering for just over a year, said: “In the beginning, I struggled with my confidence. The child pushed boundaries constantly, fought every option and often wasn’t living in reality. It was difficult to know whether what I was doing was making any difference at all.

“I made it clear through my actions that no matter what happened, I would always be there for them. I praised positive behaviour, set clear boundaries and stuck to them, always explaining why those boundaries

were there, particularly around safety. I learned to wait until we were both calm before talking things through.

“The moment that really showed me things were beginning to change was when she opened up about her past and the trauma she had been through. We cried together and hugged. That was the moment I knew she felt safe enough to trust me.

“When you realise you’ve made that connection, it’s the best feeling in the world. Every child wants to feel loved and safe, and once that starts to happen, the rewards are huge.”

Pembrokeshire County Council’s Head of Children’s Services, Chris Frey-Davies said: “Foster carers across Pembrokeshire provide stability, care and understanding to children who have often experienced difficult and traumatic circumstances.

“This survey highlights the importance of local support, training and guidance in helping carers respond confidently to children’s needs over time. The breakthrough moments described by carers, while often small, show that children are beginning to feel safe and supported.

“At Foster Wales Pembrokeshire, we remain committed to supporting our foster carers throughout their fostering journey, ensuring they have access to the help they need to make a lasting difference.”

In Wales, there are 7,200 children in care. Of these, 4,884 live with foster families, supported by 3,538 foster carers.

Foster Wales is the national network of not-for-profit local authority fostering services in Wales.

Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer can find out more at fosterwales.gov.wales.

Trial of men accused of murdering Ian Watkins delayed

ThE TRiAL of two prison inmates accused of murdering former Lostprophets singer ian Watkins has been delayed by a day.

Watkins, who was serving a 29-year sentence for child sexual offences, died following an alleged attack at HMP Wakefield last October.

Rashid Gedel, 25, who has been referred to in court as Rico Gedel, and Samuel Dodsworth, 43, were due to stand trial at Leeds Crown Court on Tuesday (May 5).

The case is now expected to begin on Wednesday (May 6).

Watkins was jailed in December 2013 for 29 years, with a further six years on licence, after admitting a series of child

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sex offences, including the attempted rape of a baby.

He was arrested after police executed a drugs warrant at his home in Pontypridd on September 21, 2012. Officers seized computers, mobile phones and storage devices, which later revealed evidence of his offending. Watkins had previously been taken to hospital after being attacked in prison in 2023.

In 2019, he was jailed for an additional ten months after being found guilty of possessing a mobile phone while in prison.

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MiLFoRD hAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi,

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alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor,

Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien. Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and

Reeves BBQ.

coMMuNiTY SuppoRT

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us –not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

TicKET iNFoRMATioN

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

The Cheesecake Guy store could be coming to Saundersfoot

SAuNDERSFooT’S coal Building interpretation centre could soon host the third store for Welsh cheesecake business The cheesecake guy Ltd, in plans before the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Craig Taylor of Merthyr Tydfil-based The Cheesecake Guy Ltd seeks a change of use of part of Saundersfoot’s Cambrian Terrace Coal Building interpretation centre to create a small retail unit.

On its website, The Cheesecake Guy says of its business and products: “Established in 2019, The Cheesecake Guy is all about delivering indulgent, handcrafted cheesecake desserts with a twist. While we offer a range of sweet treats, our specialty — and customer favourite — is the signature cheesecake jar.

“Made with quality ingredients and packed with rich, creamy layers, our jars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with others, The Cheesecake Guy brings a spoonful of happiness to every bite.”

While no supporting statement has yet been published for the Saundersfoot proposal, the application says the scheme would employ two full-time members of staff, operating 10am-6pm Mon-Sat, and 10-5 on Sundays and bank holidays.

It says the proposed site is currently a mixed-use retail and gift shop, having previously been used as office space.

It adds: “This is a space within a building that is still trading, the space

we are wanting a change of use was last used by Persimmon Homes as an office space.”

Of the scheme itself it says it will involve “retail sales of pre-prepared desserts and merchandise,” adding there will be “no on-site manufacturing or heavy processing,” with “equipment limited to display fridges and freezers”.

If approved, the Saundersfoot site would be the third outlet for

The Cheesecake Guy, with sites in Merthyr, and, more recently, Newport

After that store opened following redevelopment of Newport’s Victorian market, Craig Taylor, of The Cheesecake Guy, said: “We are very excited to be part of the new development in Newport Market alongside some other amazing small businesses.

“We feel this is definitely the next step in the right direction after our Merthyr Tydfil store taking off so well.”

For its Newport site, The Cheesecake Guy says: “We specialise in creating a wide variety of cheesecake desserts that cater to

all tastes. Our menu features popular favourites that have won the hearts of many, alongside exciting new creations designed to keep your taste buds satisfied.

“Whether you’re a classic cheesecake lover or an adventurous foodie, we promise a cheesecake experience like no other. Each cheesecake is made with the utmost care, ensuring a rich, creamy texture and a burst of flavour in every slice (or jar!).”

The Saundersfoot proposal will be considered by park planners at a later date.

Homeless charity plans ‘safe haven’ centre with accommodation and training

A NEW community initiative is aiming to provide a “safe haven” for homeless people in west Wales, offering accommodation, training and round-the-clock support.

Safe Haven Homeless CIC has been set up by founder Dave Thomas, who said the idea came after witnessing the

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struggles faced by people sleeping rough in Carmarthen and Aberystwyth. He described seeing individuals forced out of temporary camps, including one case where fencing was erected to

prevent a homeless person returning to a former site.

Mr Thomas said: “We spoke to people who simply couldn’t access help because they had no fixed address or internet access. That was a real eye-opener.”

Research carried out by the group found that while a number of organisations provide advice and outreach support, there is a lack of safe, stable accommodation offering a full package of services.

The Herald understands that demand for housing remains high, with waiting lists for social housing stretching to around two years in some cases, particularly for those not in priority groups.

The project aims to address this by purchasing a property with land to create a multi-use support centre.

Plans include a main building with communal living areas, a kitchen, counselling rooms, IT facilities and training spaces, alongside outdoor accommodation such as bell tents and log cabins.

The site would also include recreational and work-based facilities, including a workshop, greenhouse, gym and fishing

lake, designed to support wellbeing and provide opportunities for skills development.

Mr Thomas said the centre would be staffed 24 hours a day to ensure continuous support, addressing a gap where many services only operate during office hours.

The initiative also aims to become partly self-sustaining, with income generated through a small campsite, training activities and partnerships with external organisations.

Support networks are already being developed, including links with counsellors, charities and local businesses willing to offer employment opportunities to those using the service.

The organisation is being run by a team of directors alongside Mr Thomas, and is also building connections with other community projects in the region.

Mr Thomas added: “We believe this is a new and dynamic way to support homeless people. It’s about giving them not just a place to stay, but real support to rebuild their lives.”

Sub aqua club marks first serious sea-diving weekend of season

CARDIGAN Sub Aqua Club has completed its first major weekend of sea diving of the season, with 23 divers taking part across four days.

The club rounded off the weekend on Monday (May 4), meeting at Porthgain at 8:30am with two club boats for a dive before returning by 2:00pm.

Ten divers took part in Monday’s outing, with the group diving on the Leysion, where visibility was reported at around three to four metres.

The club said the weekend had been an important opportunity for members to refresh skills, refamiliarise themselves with equipment and procedures, and give newer divers valuable sea experience.

There was also a milestone for club member Katie, who completed her first sea dive.

A club spokesperson said: “This has

been the first serious club weekend out in the sea. Lots of refreshing of skills. Lots of refamiliarisation of kit and procedures. Some newbie experiences and some extending of experiences.”

The weekend also helped the club identify maintenance work needed on boats and trailers, with notes taken so the committee can prioritise resources.

The spokesperson added: “It’s been a good weekend for club diving — four days, two different locations and 23 different divers.”

The club said it will now focus over the next month on helping members who have not yet been back into the sea this season to get diving again and continue progressing with training.

Monday’s dive was followed by a debrief at The Sloop Inn, Porthgain.

Cllr marks 10th blood donation and urges others to give blood

A pEMBRoKEShiRE councillor has urged more people to become blood donors after receiving his 10-unit donation badge from the Welsh Blood Service.

Cllr Thomas Tudor said he was pleased to receive the recognition and encouraged anyone who is able to donate to come forward.

He said: “If you can give blood, please do so.”

The Welsh Blood Service says hospitals in Wales need around 350 blood donations every day to support patients in need.

A single donation can help up to three patients, as blood can be separated into different components

and used in different ways to help people recover.

The service is calling for donors from all backgrounds, including firsttime donors and those who have given blood before, to help maintain supplies for hospitals across Wales.

Giving blood is described as quick, simple and safe, and remains one of the most important ways members of the public can help save lives.

Anyone wishing to find out more can contact the Welsh Blood Service on 0800 252 266, Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 7:00pm, or Saturday from 9:00am to 1:00pm. They can also email donors@wales.nhs.uk.

Whitland street food festival draws thousands for biggest event yet

ThouSANDS of visitors descended on Whitland on Sunday (May 3) as the Whitland Street Food Festival returned to parc Dr owen for what organisers described as its biggest and best event to date.

The annual festival, organised by Together Hendygwyn Gyda’n Gilydd CIC, brought together food traders, performers and community groups from across West Wales, with strong ticket sales suggesting attendance in the thousands.

REcoRD ScALE AND STRoNg TuRNouT

More than 30 street food vendors and over 80 market stalls filled the site, offering everything from Welsh produce and artisan goods to international cuisine, sweet treats and speciality drinks.

A large big-top tent provided covered seating for festivalgoers, while crowds gathered across the field to enjoy live music, entertainment and family attractions throughout the day.

Pre-event figures suggested over 1,300 tickets had already been sold, with some estimates rising closer to 1,800 — continuing the festival’s growth as a major regional attraction.

MuSic AND ENTERTAiNMENT

hEADLiNE ThE DAY

The event featured a full programme of live performances, culminating in a headline DJ set from BBC Radio 1 DJs Rickie and Melvin.

Local acts also played a central role, with performances from 4th Street,

The Western Shires, P’tcheaow, The Home Shores and Just Dylan. Community groups including Ysgol Dyffryn Taf and Whitland & District Male Choir also took to the stage.

Visitors were entertained beyond the music, with live circus shows and interactive activities from Big Top Mania, alongside a popular hot wing challenge.

FAMiLY FocuS AND coMMuNiTY SpiRiT

The festival placed a strong emphasis on being family-friendly, with a free bouncy castle, inflatable assault course and dedicated toddler area attracting younger visitors.

Across the site, a mix of families, groups and visitors from neighbouring counties created a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with many staying into the evening as entertainment continued.

Pure West Radio broadcast live from the event, interviewing traders, performers and attendees, capturing what many described as a “buzzing” and “fantastic” day.

Supporting local business and causes

Organisers said the festival was designed to celebrate local food, businesses and community spirit, while supporting independent traders and raising funds or awareness for local causes.

Charity presence on the day

included Wales Air Ambulance, which hosted an awareness stand alongside the commercial stalls.

Whitland, a small Carmarthenshire town, has seen the festival grow into a key annual event, drawing visitors from across West Wales and providing a boost to the local economy.

LooKiNg AhEAD

With strong attendance, a packed programme and widespread community involvement, the 2026 festival is expected to build further momentum for future events.

Organisers are likely to review this year’s success as they look ahead to an even bigger return in 2027.

Milford Haven groups recognised at Mayor’s celebration tea

coMMuNiTY groups, charities and volunteers from across Milford haven were recognised at a special Mayor’s celebration Afternoon Tea.

The event was hosted by the Mayor, Cllr William Elliott, and his Consort, Mr Lloyd Jones, as an opportunity to bring together many of the individuals, groups and organisations who support the town.

Afternoon tea was provided by Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, with several cadets achieving their Catering badge as a result.

Deputy Lieutenant Dr Chris Martin OBE DL MStJ presented certificates, badges and thank-you gifts to the cadets. Gifts were also presented to those who provided stewarding support, and to the adults who helped with instruction and support over the weekend.

The Mayor and Consort also presented donations from the Mayor’s Charity Fund following fundraising carried out during their term of office.

A raffle held during the afternoon raised £300 for The Wallich, to support its homeless outreach work.

The Mayor also presented Civic

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Awards in recognition of community service and support to the town.

Recipients included NCI Wooltack Point, Pembrokeshire Pride, Sub Lieutenant (SCC) Callum Goodland RNR, Gelliswick Community Choir, Frank Hart, Anthony Williams of Milford Haven Royal British Legion, Jackie Davies, and Mayor’s Cadet Leading Cadet Connor.

The Freedom of the Town was also presented to Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, and Milford Haven Town Band.

Cllr Elliott and Mr Jones said: “Thank you for all of your support for our two years as the Mayor and Consort of Milford Haven.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed it once again, meeting and supporting many of the wonderful groups, charities and individuals in our town.

“For those that received an award or a donation, thank you for all you do to support and make our community great — making Milford Haven the safe and welcoming haven it is.”

Handcrafted garden furniture built to last across Pembrokeshire

Cardigan-based Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd is winning customers with solid, comfortable and weather-resistant benches, tables and outdoor seating

A LocAL garden furniture maker is bringing traditional craftsmanship, strength and style to outdoor spaces across pembrokeshire and west Wales.

Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd, based next to Tivy Tyres on Station Road, Cardigan, specialises in handcrafted wooden benches, garden tables and outdoor seating built for real everyday use.

At a time when many garden furniture products are mass-produced and lightweight, the company has focused on making solid, heavy-duty pieces designed to last, with comfort, durability and practicality at the heart of every item.

Each bench, chair and table is individually made using high-quality structural timber and carefully finished to protect it from the weather. The result is garden furniture that feels substantial, looks attractive and is made to cope with life outdoors all year round.

BuiLT pRopERLY

What sets Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd apart is the way each item is constructed.

Rather than relying on staples or nails, every piece is carefully screwed together for extra strength and longterm durability. The furniture is then finished with multiple coats of weatherresistant protection, helping it stand up to the elements while retaining its appearance.

The company uses Cuprinol Garden Shades finishes, offering customers a choice of attractive colours including Willow, Sage, Urban Slate and Seasoned Oak, along with more natural tones for those who prefer a classic timber look.

It means customers can choose furniture that not only suits their garden, patio or outdoor seating area, but also has the protection needed for the Welsh weather.

FRoM BENchES To FAMiLY TABLES

The current range includes a wide choice of practical and decorative outdoor furniture, all made with the same focus on strength and comfort.

Popular pieces include the Joycey Easy Sit Bench, designed to offer extra support and comfort, as well as single bench chairs, backless benches and a selection of heavy-duty garden tables.

The 3 Bar Heavy Duty Table is made for regular use, while the 5 Bar Medium and Large Tables are ideal for families, visitors, social gatherings and anyone looking to make more of their outdoor space.

Whether it is a quiet corner of the garden, a patio seating area, a holiday

home, a campsite, a smallholding or a community space, the furniture is designed to be useful, strong and attractive.

LocAL WoRKShop

Customers are welcome to view the furniture in person by appointment at the company’s Cardigan workshop, located next to Tivy Tyres on Station Road, Pentood Industrial Estate.

The workshop also acts as a collection point for orders, giving customers the chance to see the quality of the furniture before taking it home.

Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd also attends local markets, where its benches and tables have become a familiar sight to shoppers looking for locally made outdoor furniture with a personal touch.

The business has built up a growing base of returning customers across Pembrokeshire, with many buyers coming back for additional pieces after seeing how well their first purchase performs.

Customer feedback has praised the comfort, solid construction and value for money, with repeat orders helping the company grow through word of mouth and local support.

MADE FoR ouTDooR LiViNg

As more people invest in their gardens and outdoor spaces, durable wooden furniture has become an increasingly popular choice.

For homeowners, the garden is no longer just somewhere to mow the lawn. It is a place to relax, entertain, enjoy the sunshine, spend time with family and make the most of the space around the home.

Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd is helping people do exactly that, with handcrafted furniture that combines strength, comfort and simple good looks.

From a single bench to a full outdoor seating set, each piece is made with care and designed to be used, enjoyed and relied upon.

For anyone looking for garden furniture that is locally made, properly built and designed to last, Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd offers a strong alternative to mass-produced outdoor furniture.

Customers can view the range by appointment at the workshop next to Tivy Tyres, Station Road, Cardigan, or look out for Pembrokeshire Wooden Garden Company Ltd at local markets across the area.

Telephone 07811 120503 cLicK hERE pembswood@hotmail.com

Dinosaur adventure stomps into Milford Haven

A FAMiLY dinosaur show 65 million years in the making is heading to Milford haven this summer.

Dinosaur Adventure Live: Danger on T-Rex Mountain will headline the Torch Theatre on Thursday, July 30.

The interactive stage show promises storytelling, puppetry, humour and science as young audiences join a team of rangers on a mission to recover a data crystal, restore power to the island and save the dinosaurs.

Children will be encouraged to

stomp, roar and swish their tails as they meet baby dinosaurs, learn “DinoFacts” and come face-to-face with a roaring T-Rex.

Created by Mike Newman, the producer behind Exciting Science, the show is now in its fifth year and is aimed at families with children aged four and over.

The performance lasts one hour, with no interval, and there will be a meet-and-greet after the show.

Tickets are available from the Torch Theatre.

Welsh windfarms to power major construction materials firm

A MAJoR construction materials company has signed a long-term deal to use renewable energy from Welsh windfarms as part of efforts to cut carbon emissions.

Energy firm RWE has agreed a 15-year contract to supply electricity to Breedon Group plc, which operates sites across Great Britain producing materials including concrete, asphalt and cement.

Under the agreement, RWE will provide around 70 gigawatt hours of renewable electricity each year from its windfarm portfolio.

The power will initially come from the Gwynt y Môr offshore windfarm, about 24km off the coast of North Wales in the Irish Sea. From 2033, supply will switch to the Brechfa Forest West onshore windfarm in Wales.

The electricity will support the production of key building materials, helping Breedon reduce emissions linked to its energy use in a sector widely regarded as difficult to decarbonise.

RWE said the agreement highlighted the role renewable energy can play in helping heavy industry move towards lower-carbon operations.

Olaf Lubenow, head of commodity solutions at RWE, said: “This agreement underlines our commitment to supporting the construction materials sector on its journey towards a more sustainable future.

“By supplying renewable electricity from our wind portfolio, we are helping to reduce the carbon footprint of Breedon’s operations.”

Breedon said the deal would also provide long-term energy stability while supporting its wider sustainability plans.

Donna Hunt, the company’s sustainability director, said the agreement marked “a meaningful step forward”.

She said: “It secures long-term energy supply and helps accelerate the reduction of emissions from our operations.”

The company has set targets to cut emissions across its business by more than 20% by 2030 and to reach net zero by 2050.

The agreement reflects a growing trend of major industrial firms turning to renewable energy to help meet climate targets while managing rising energy costs.

Scooter rally brings colour and nostalgia to Tenby

TENBY is buzzing with the sights and sounds of classic scooters this Bank holiday weekend as the Welsh National Scooter Rally continues in the seaside town.

Hundreds of scooter enthusiasts have travelled to Pembrokeshire for the four-day event, which runs from Friday (May 1) to Monday (May 4), bringing a splash of colour, chrome and Mod culture to the resort.

The rally, organised by Scooter Collective South Wales, is taking place across several venues, including De Valence Pavilion, Tenby United Rugby Club and the Ex-Servicemen’s Club.

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Entertainment includes live music, Northern Soul nights, club events and the traditional rally atmosphere which has made Tenby a popular stop on the national scooter calendar.

A ride-out was also planned from Tenby RFC’s ground at Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon, with scooters heading through the surrounding area.

A Custom Show and Traders Fair were also due to be held at the rugby club. Classic Vespas, Lambrettas and

custom scooters have been seen around the town throughout the weekend, with visitors adding to the atmosphere in local streets, pubs, cafés and hotels.

This year’s event also marks 25 years since the first national scooter rally was held in Tenby in 2001 at Kiln Park, when soul legend Edwin Starr headlined.

Before that, smaller local rallies had taken place in 1999 and 2000,

while Tenby had already become a regular weekend destination for South Wales scooterists during the 1990s.

The 2026 event is understood to be the 12th time a national rally has been held in Tenby, underlining the town’s long-standing connection with the scooter scene.

The rally continues until Monday, with organisers and visitors hoping the Bank Holiday atmosphere will provide another boost for the town.

Police cyclists to ride 75 miles in charity tribute

DYFED-poWYS poLicE cyclists will ride 75 hilly miles across pembrokeshire and carmarthenshire next week in a first-of-its-kind charity event for the force.

Around 35 riders will take part in The Chief’s Tour on Wednesday (May 6), raising money for Care of Police Survivors (COPS), a charity which supports the families of police officers and police staff who have died on duty.

The route will begin at St Mary’s Church in Fishguard at around 8:00am, before heading south through Pembrokeshire to Tenby and finishing at police headquarters in Carmarthen. The ride is expected to take between eight and 11 hours.

The event will also commemorate officers and staff who died while serving with Dyfed-Powys Police.

Chief Constable Ifan Charles said: “This event is a moment for communities, Dyfed-Powys Police, and families to come together to remember

officers and staff whose lives were sadly cut short – and ensure their memory lives on.

“It would be fantastic to see people showing their support along the route, and we welcome cyclists to join us along the way.”

Scheduled stops will include St Mary’s Church, Fishguard, at around 8:00am, Newgale beach at 9:40am, Narberth Road layby in Tenby at 1:45pm, and Cana Cemetery, Banc-yfelin, Carmarthenshire, at 4:05pm.

Mr Charles added: “It was important to me to build moments of reflection into the route to make sure we remember the Dyfed-Powys Police officers who never made it home.

“Each name we reflect upon represents dedication, courage, and the highest standard of service to the public. They remind us of what it means to put the safety of others before our own, and of the risks inherent in the oath police officers take.”

The tour is aiming to raise £1,000 for COPS. More than £600 has already been donated.

Anyone wishing to support the team can donate through the JustGiving page for Dyfed Powys Police Cyclists.

Vintage tractor tour sets off

FiFTY-three vintage tractors left pembroke Dock Ferry port on Saturday (May 2) as part of a longrunning tractor tour to ireland.

The group boarded the ferry for the latest stage of an exchange which has been running since 2011, when the National Vintage Tractor Run was held in Pembrokeshire.

Organiser Alun Mason said: “The Tour of Ireland has been ongoing since 2011, when the National Vintage Tractor Run was held in Pembrokeshire.

“A large contingent travelled from

Ireland and continue to do so every other year, with our visit this weekend and the Irish tractors due to visit in 2027.”

Some of the tractors taking part travelled from as far as Burry Port, Bridgend, Llandrindod Wells, Llandovery and Ceredigion before gathering at the ferry port.

The event brought together vintage tractor enthusiasts from across Wales ahead of the crossing to Ireland.

Pictured are organisers Jo Richards and Alun Mason, and the group waiting to embark at Pembroke Dock Ferry Port.

Volunteers praised as Rath paddling pool gets summer makeover

rt of ongoing efforts by the community to clean, maintain and improve the popular splash area ahead of the warmer months.

Caroline explained the netting had a practical purpose as well as an aesthetic one.

She said: “It’s partly to try and prevent some of the grass cuttings getting into the pool but also to brighten the area up.”

Others suggested it could also help reduce the amount of litter blowing into the water – an issue that has been raised in previous summers.

The efforts were widely welcomed online, with many residents thanking those involved for giving up their time.

One commenter wrote: “A bit of praise for these volunteers who give our little ones a bit of enjoyment at the paddling pool. Well done all.”

Another added: “Well done and

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thank you everyone.”

Some questioned the need for the netting, with one resident saying: “I don’t understand the netting around the pool. It looked lovely as it was.”

The Rath paddling pool is a wellused facility during the summer months, particularly by families with young children, and relies heavily on volunteer support to keep it clean and operational.

Local groups, including TipTop Wheelies, are understood to be involved in helping prepare the site for the season.

Despite mixed views on the netting, the overwhelming response has been one of appreciation for those working behind the scenes to keep the facility open.

Firefighter experience days planned in Haverfordwest and Newtown

pEopLE interested in becoming firefighters are being invited to take part in special Firefighter Experience Days being held by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service this June.

The events will take place at Haverfordwest Fire Station on Wednesday, June 3, and at Newtown Fire Station on Friday, June 5. Both sessions will run from 10:00am until 1:00pm.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, which covers almost two-thirds of Wales, says the days are designed to give people a practical introduction to life in the fire service in a relaxed and informal setting.

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Around 75 per cent of the service’s fire stations are crewed entirely by oncall firefighters, who play a vital role in protecting communities across the region.

Visitors attending the experience days will have the opportunity to try on firefighting kit, learn how equipment is assembled, and take part in practical exercises alongside serving crews.

Firefighters from both stations will also be on hand to explain the realities of the role, answer questions, and offer guidance on the recruitment process.

Topics covered during the sessions will include the modern role of a firefighter, fitness requirements, personal protective equipment, career pathways within the service, and what applicants can expect during recruitment.

Booking is essential for anyone wishing to attend.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Lily Evans, Digital Marketing Officer for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, by emailing lily.evans@mawwfire.gov.uk.

Home-Start Cymru highlights vital support for parents during Maternal Mental Health Week

chARiTY home-Start cymru is calling for greater awareness and support for parents facing mental health challenges during the early years of family life.

The appeal comes as Maternal Mental Health Week shines a spotlight on the emotional wellbeing of mothers and parents across Wales.

The charity is sharing the story of Naomi Durham, a mother of two who previously received support from HomeStart Cymru.

Naomi said that, while she appeared to be coping, she was privately struggling with postnatal depression, health issues and the pressure of raising two young children alone.

She said: “On the outside, I tried to look like I was coping, but inside things were falling apart.

“I was struggling with postnatal depression, managing my health, and raising two young children on my own. For a long time, it felt like nobody really knew how to help me.

“But when I was matched with a Home-Start Cymru volunteer, everything began to change. For the first time in a long while, I felt like someone truly saw me and listened to me, and that support made all the difference.”

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Home-Start Cymru said Naomi’s experience showed the impact that early intervention and compassionate, community-based support can have on families.

The charity provides volunteer-led, one-to-one support for families with young children across Wales. Parents are matched with trained volunteers who offer practical and emotional support, helping to reduce isolation, build resilience and improve wellbeing.

A spokesperson for Home-Start Cymru said: “Too many parents feel they have to struggle alone, particularly during the early years when the pressures can be overwhelming.

“Naomi’s story shows just how important it is for families to feel seen, heard, and supported. Our volunteers play a crucial role in offering that lifeline.”

Maternal Mental Health Week is used to raise awareness of conditions such as postnatal depression and to encourage parents to seek help.

Home-Start Cymru is urging anyone who may be struggling to reach out and access support.

Pembrokeshire Broad Haven holiday park works refused

A DEVELopMENT call for a pembrokeshire holiday park has been turned down by pembrokeshire coast National park.

In an application to park planners, Broad Haven Holiday Park, through agent Gerald Blain Associates, sought permission for the relocation of a boat storage area, vehicle shed and play area along with rewilding of adjoining fields at Broad Haven Holiday Park, Broad Haven, near Haverfordwest.

The application was supported by local community council The Havens.

However, an officer report recommended refusal.

Detailing the application, it said: “The proposal relates to the extension of an existing static caravan holiday site into adjacent undeveloped woodland to accommodate the relocation of boat storage, a vehicle shed, and a children’s play area, together with associated ecological mitigation measures. No increased pitch numbers are proposed.

“The development site has already undergone some site clearance, resulting in the removal of approximately 1,000 square metres of woodland.”

It went on to say: “The existing site is already intervisible with the coast, and the proposed relocation of boat storage would likely increase its visibility rather than reduce it. Without supporting evidence in the form of a Landscape

Bruce

Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) or Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) demonstrating that the development would be visually contained, the proposal appears contrary to the guidance contained within the SPG and

the objectives of Policy 41.

“As a result, the proposed development is considered to detract from the special qualities of the National Park in this location and would be detrimental to the quality and character of the landscape character area in which the site sits, and as such does not comply [with policies].”

The application was refused on

grounds including it being sited within previously undeveloped land within a flood zone, a lack of information on potential impacts on biodiversity, and it is “considered to detract from the special qualities of the national park in this location and would be detrimental to the quality and character of the landscape character area in which the site sits”.

Chris Packham backs Carmarthen ‘nature crisis’ climate screening

BRoADcASTER and environmental campaigner chris packham has backed a free public screening in carmarthen aimed at encouraging local discussion about the climate and nature crisis.

The People’s Emergency Briefing will be shown at St Peters Civic Hall, Carmarthen, on Friday, May 22, at 7:00pm.

The screening will be followed by a facilitated community discussion involving residents, local leaders and

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

invited decision-makers.

The event forms part of a UK-wide programme intended to help the public and policymakers better understand the risks posed by climate change and biodiversity loss.

The film follows the National Emergency Briefing held at Westminster Central Hall in November 2025, where more than 1,200 MPs,

peers and leaders from business, culture, faith, sport and the media gathered to hear evidence from leading experts.

The briefing, introduced by Chris Packham CBE, examined the impact of climate and nature breakdown on food security, public health, infrastructure, the economy and national security.

It has since been adapted into a 50-minute public film, which launched nationally in April and is now being screened in communities across the

UK.

Chris Packham said: “I’d encourage people everywhere to attend a screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing.

“It creates exactly the kind of honest local conversation we now urgently need, both about what these changes mean where we live, and about what we can do together to address them.”

Organisers say the Carmarthen event comes at a time of growing local concern over flooding on the rivers Towy and Gwili, as well as biodiversity loss linked to pollution incidents.

After the film, those attending will be invited to take part in a structured discussion about the issues raised and what they may mean locally.

Local MPs, councillors and other influential figures have also been invited.

Philip Hughes, one of the organisers, said: “This is about creating space for people to come together, look at the evidence, and begin a more open and informed conversation about what it means for our community.

“It is also about how we can support the bolder action now called for by the science, which will also do so much to improve lives, as the film explains.”

Tickets for the Carmarthen screening are free, but advance registration is encouraged.

Lovell Homes to host homebuying event in Haverfordwest

LoVELL hoMES is inviting haverfordwest property seekers to attend their

Assisted Move event at its Augustus Grange development on Saturday May 9, with a focus on the Helping Hands and Part Exchange schemes designed to make moving easier.

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

Augustus Grange, located off St David’s Road, is a mixed-tenure development delivered in partnership with Codi, offering a collection of two and three-bedroom

homes in a well-connected location close to Haverfordwest town centre and the Pembrokeshire coastline.

Taking place from 10am to 5pm, the event will focus on practical guidance around Helping Hands and Part Exchange, giving visitors a clearer understanding of how they can move forward with confidence.

Visitors will be able to explore the development, tour the showhomes and speak directly with the sales team about the homes currently available.

Deb of ABP Mortgages will also be in attendance throughout the day, offering free, independent mortgage advice tailored to individual circumstances. Heather from The New Homes Group (TNHG) will also be available via telephone to provide guidance, helping buyers understand the practical steps involved in securing their new home.

Lovell Homes’ Helping Hands and Part Exchange schemes are both designed to remove some of the most common barriers associated with moving home. Through Helping Hands, buyers can receive support with the marketing and sale of their

existing property, helping to make the process feel more manageable. With Part Exchange, Lovell can act as a guaranteed buyer for a customer’s current home, helping them avoid property chains, reduce uncertainty and move more quickly.

Suzie Hewitt, regional sales director at Lovell Homes, said: “We understand that selling an existing home can often be one of the biggest challenges for buyers. Events like this are an opportunity to show how schemes such as Helping Hands and Part Exchange can simplify that process and give people more confidence in their move.

“By bringing together our sales team and independent advisers, we’re able to support buyers with both the practical and financial aspects of their purchase, helping them to move forward with clarity.”

To find out more visit, https://newhomes.lovell.co.uk/ developments/augustus-grangehaverfordwest/ or call 01437 468027. The marketing suite is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care

A chARiTY shop in pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.

The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.

The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the newlook store for customers.

Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.

Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.

The charity says it costs £3,600

people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.

every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.

The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.

The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition,

not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.

Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.

BADGER: A CHANGE OF SEASON

BY ThE time you read this week’s column, readers, it will be too late.

The votes will have been cast and collated, and counting will be underway or concluded. If you’re suffering from buyer’s remorse, the chance of correcting your error is gone until May 2030. And, if you didn’t vote, don’t bother complaining about the result.

The immediate question, as the votes are counted, is what shape the new Welsh Government will take, and what that will mean for Wales’ future direction.

As Badger writes, opinion polls have been stable for some time. Plaid Cymru and Reform have consistently polled close, usually within the margin of error, making them nearly indistinguishable. The final big ITV/ YouGov poll shows Plaid pulling ahead of Reform, with Labour and Conservatives neck and neck.

There are scenarios, albeit unusual ones, in which Labour’s support declines even more sharply than current polling suggests. If a sufficient number of Labour voters in the Valleys and South East Wales abandon Labour to support Reform, it is conceivable that Reform could form a government with Conservative support. However, this outcome is statistically improbable. Nearly every aspect would need to favour the Conservatives in West and North Wales, and Reform would need to perform just poorly enough there for the Conservatives to potentially hold the balance of power.

The assumption that Reform would pursue a post-election agreement with the Conservatives rests on an oversimplified narrative that asserts that both parties’ rightleaning status would automatically result in collaboration within the Senedd. Badger is unconvinced of this outcome. It is also likely that Kemi Badenoch, who is clobbering Keir Starmer weekly in Parliament and drawing support away from Reform in England, would have significant concerns regarding Darren Millar leading the Senedd Conservatives into partnership with a party whose stated goal is to replace them.

It is plausible that Andrew RT Davies, Janet Finch-Saunders, and a small number of other Members of the Conservative Group would be comfortable with such an arrangement. However, it is likely that Paul Davies, Tom Giffard, and, if elected, Sam Kurtz would prefer not to collaborate with Reform, even at a significant distance. This is because they are Conservatives, not individuals seeking publicity through controversy - or tub-thumping loons.

Furthermore, if Reform and its Members of the Senedd perform as their predecessors in Wales and their counterparts on councils in England, more measured Conservatives might decide it is preferable to wait for stability rather than risk disorder.

The most plausible outcome remains Plaid Cymru emerging as the largest party but falling short of a majority. This sets up a pivotal question: will Plaid seek coalition support, and at what cost to its promise of change?

Framing such coalition manoeuvres as idealistic overlooks their practical risks—and that, in practice, they may be unworkable or counterproductive.

Throughout the election campaign, it has been evident that voters want a departure from the status quo in Cardiff Bay. Too many on the left are bemused or dismissive of Reform’s

polling strength. They can’t accept that it reflects the significant disaffection of many Welsh voters after 27 years of Labour’s management of devolution and the beige predictability of Welsh politics. Badger has previously noted, and emphasises again, that Labour’s treatment of voters and attempts to market superficial solutions have reached their limit, even in regions that reliably support Labour.

If Plaid, after campaigning as the party of change, quickly aligns with Labour, it risks undermining its credibility and the central promise of true difference in government. If “change” is more of the same but with Labour’s and Plaid’s positions reversed, the question arises as to just how much change Plaid has the appetite to deliver. Outflanked on the left by the Greens, Plaid could end up squeezed out at the 2030 Senedd election.

Let’s suppose that not all Green Party voters live in holes in the ground, yurts, or Ford Transits parked in woodland. Let’s also imagine enough of them can see through the everpresent haze of self-righteousness surrounding their campaigns. In those cases, Badger observes that Wales has the oldest housing stock, a chronic shortage of new homes built to meet current public needs, and few jobs that allow people to remain living and working in their communities. The

money to remedy these issues will not be found down the back of Rachel Reeves’s sofa or by extracting cash from Wales’s relatively tiny number of higher-rate taxpayers.

The central issue is this: regardless of outcome, can any party realistically fund their promises?

Every party’s spending plans are a mix of wishful thinking, pie-in-thesky, and outright nonsense. At least the Liberal Democrats didn’t insult voters’ intelligence. They did not cost their plans because they regard them as aspirations to deliver when possible rather than a set-in-concrete programme for government. Badger applauds them for saying that. That is how manifestos should be. They should be about values, not cost.

Modern manifestos overflow with promises that ignore reality: Wales depends heavily on the Exchequer, and funding allocations are unpredictable. Parties costing their own manifestos not only smacks of them marking their own homework but also creates expectations that exceed what devolved governments can actually deliver.

Look at it this way, if current forecasts hold, Westminster will have less money than planned and will need to cut its expenditure. That means lower (in real terms) funding settlements for Wales. Which, in turn, means less money for public services. That is inescapable. This election campaign, and particularly the performance of Baroness Morgan of All of Our Hearts, has buried the notion that Labour in Westminster works hand in glove with Labour in Wales.

The Institute of Fiscal Studies looked at every party’s spending pledges for the next Welsh Parliament. When their boffins stopped laughing, they concluded that all of the parties’ plans are - financially speakingdrivel.

Whoever forms the next Welsh Government faces economic headwinds, Westminster’s indifference, and pressure to deliver change quickly to heal the wounds of a wasted quarter-century of devolution.

To which Badger can only say: “Good luck. You’ll need it.”

Broadhaven South and St Davids Cathedral inspire Pembrokeshire wood carver

A NEW solo exhibition at the Torch Theatre will showcase the work of pembrokeshire wood carver Anthony Griffiths.

Through a Kaleidoscope opens at the Joanna Field Gallery on Wednesday, May 6, and features a series of circular relief carvings in oak, alongside the drawings that helped shape them.

Anthony, who lives in Stackpole, has taught wood carving for more than twenty years, originally in Somerset, and now from his home workshop in south Pembrokeshire, known as The Carving Room.

The exhibition brings together work influenced by the eroded sedimentary rocks at low tide on Broadhaven South, the carved mouldings of the Norman arches at St Davids Cathedral, and the interlocking patterns found in cathedral rose windows.

Other influences include vaulted cathedral ceilings, the intricate stucco domes of the Alhambra Palace, and the geometric decoration found in Islamic architecture.

Anthony said: “These carvings are not about resemblance to, or imitation of, any specific thing. Someone suggested they have a resemblance to the knotted patterns of crocheted doilies, or even biscuits.

“They may also be analogous with the interior forms of flowers, but none of this is intentional.”

He said the carvings are intended to capture an experience rather than copy a subject.

Anthony added: “They refer to dynamic energy and equilibrium; something we experience viscerally, as a play of energy, as much through our

bodies as through our eyes.”

The individual forms, he explained, are designed to create movement, rhythm and motion.

He said: “The intention is to generate speed and motion by their differing alignments. It is not about where they are going, it is that they are going, that they are in constant flux.”

Unlike many relief carvings, Anthony said the finished works do not closely resemble the original drawings, even though the same elements are transferred directly onto the timber. He added that the final appearance can only emerge through the slow process of carving, as light, shadow and movement develop within the wood

itself. Through a Kaleidoscope can be seen at the Joanna Field Gallery, Torch Theatre, from Wednesday, May 6, to Saturday, May 30.

For more information, visit www. thecarvingroom.com or torchtheatre. co.uk, or contact the Box Office on 01646 695267.

Hubberston Girls exhibition launches new space at Waterfront Gallery

A NEW exhibition exploring

Artist Lynn Stuart is launching the gallery’s new exhibition space with her solo show, Hubberston Girls, which runs until Saturday, May 30.

The exhibition features a deeply personal series of works drawn and painted on brown paper. The material was chosen for its connection to everyday memories, including lunch bags and magazines wrapped in paper.

Once oiled, the paper becomes semi-transparent, allowing paint to be applied to the reverse and creating layered, intimate images.

The Waterfront Gallery is extending its opening hours for the exhibition and will be open Monday to Saturday, from 10:30am to 4:00pm.

A private view will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, and all are welcome.

The gallery is based in the Old Sail Loft on Discovery Quay, Milford Waterfront, Milford Haven. It is one of south west Wales’s leading art galleries, a registered charity, and home to the Wales Contemporary annual competition.

The gallery is run by artist volunteers who exhibit there regularly.

gaming

Yoshi and the Mysterious Book feels like a love letter to the softer, more whimsical side of platforming games, wrapping its adventure in a storybook aesthetic that immediately sets it apart. From the moment the game opens, there’s a quiet charm in how it presents its world— pages turning, environments unfolding like handcrafted illustrations, and a gentle sense of curiosity driving you forward. The influence of Japan is especially noticeable in its attention to detail and its balance between playfulness and restraint, where nothing feels overly loud or chaotic, yet everything remains engaging.

The gameplay leans into exploration and light puzzlesolving rather than raw difficulty, which works in its favor. Yoshi’s abilities are familiar but cleverly adapted to fit the “book” concept, with mechanics that feel like they’re interacting with the pages themselves—flipping perspectives, revealing hidden paths, and occasionally bending the rules of space in satisfying ways. It never tries to overwhelm the player, instead choosing a steady, thoughtful pace that makes each level feel like a small, self-contained story.

Visually, the game is consistently appealing, using soft colors and textured environments that resemble paper, ink, and layered materials. This artistic direction gives it a tactile quality that’s hard to ignore, as if each level were assembled by hand.

The soundtrack complements this perfectly, leaning on gentle melodies that reinforce the calm, almost nostalgic tone of the experience. Where the game might divide players is in its simplicity. Those looking for a high-stakes challenge or deep mechanical complexity may find it a bit too relaxed, but for others, that’s precisely the point. It’s a game that seems more interested in mood and creativity than in testing reflexes, and it succeeds

on those terms. By the time you reach the final pages, there’s a sense that you’ve not just completed levels, but quietly journeyed through a living storybook.

Overall, Yoshi and the Mysterious Book stands out as a thoughtfully crafted, visually distinctive experience that prioritizes charm and imagination over intensity, offering something that feels both comforting and quietly inventive.

There’s something quietly radical about the idea of Billie Eilish bringing HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: The Tour to cinemas in a fully immersive 3D format, because it transforms what was already an intimate, emotionally charged live experience into something that feels almost confrontational in its closeness. This isn’t a glossy, distancecreating concert film designed to mythologize its star; instead, it leans into proximity, placing the audience uncomfortably—and thrillingly—near every breath, every flicker of vulnerability, every surge of intensity that defines Eilish’s stage presence. The 3D element, rather than feeling like a gimmick, amplifies the physicality of the performance: the sense of space, the depth of the stage, and the subtle interplay between Eilish and her band become tangible in a way that standard concert recordings rarely achieve. What stands out most is how the film mirrors the tonal duality suggested by its title, oscillating between hushed, almost fragile moments and overwhelming sonic crescendos that hit with startling force, creating a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps the viewer emotionally off-balance in the best way. Vocally, Eilish appears at her most controlled yet expressive, navigating the material with a

confidence that underscores her evolution as a live performer, while still preserving the raw, confessional quality that has always been central to her appeal.

The camera work complements this beautifully, resisting overediting in favor of longer, more immersive takes that allow the atmosphere to breathe, drawing attention not just to the music but to the communal experience of the crowd, whose energy pulses through the screen. At times, the film feels less like documentation and more like a sensory extension of the album’s themes, translating internal

emotions into a shared, almost physical environment. If there’s any criticism to be made, it’s that the intensity can occasionally feel relentless, leaving little room for detachment, but that may well be the point—this is a project that demands to be felt rather than simply watched. Ultimately, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: The Tour (Live in 3D) succeeds because it refuses to dilute the essence of Billie Eilish’s artistry; instead, it magnifies it, offering a cinematic experience that is as immersive and emotionally charged as the music itself.

Tech and Taff

Apple, age checks and the great Welsh panic over Pornhub

ThERE are moments in Welsh technological history that will be remembered forever.

The arrival of S4C. The first broadband connection in a Valleys terrace. The day someone in Carmarthen discovered you could turn the subtitles off on Netflix.

And now, butt, we must add another landmark: the day Pornhub came back for some iPhone users.

As a Cardiff-based academic of information systems, digital culture, and why my printer has betrayed me again, I have watched this development with scholarly interest and mild spiritual discomfort.

Pornhub’s parent company, Aylo, blocked most new UK users earlier this year after complaining that Britain’s Online Safety Act ageverification rules were not being applied fairly across the industry.

Now, however, it says some UK Apple users can return if their device has confirmed they are over eighteen.

In plain English: your iPhone may now be the bouncer.

“Sorry, Dai, not tonight. You’ve not updated to iOS 26.4.”

This is what we call device-level age verification. Instead of every website demanding ID, your phone confirms whether you are an adult.

In theory, this is neat. In practice, it means grown men across Wales are now shouting at their phones in kitchens from Ely to Ebbw Vale.

“Mun, I’ve had this Apple account since the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special!”

The policy aim is serious enough. Children should not be able to access adult content. Most sensible people agree with that.

But the difficulty, as always, is the technology. Who checks? Who stores the data? What happens if the system gets it wrong? And why, in the name of Owain Glyndŵr’s broadband router, does everything now require a passport, a credit card, and three

security codes?

Apple says its system can use account history, payment details, or ID documents. Privacy campaigners say this risks locking people out of ordinary internet use unless they prove themselves to a major tech company.

Both points matter.

The trouble is, Welsh people do not respond well to being asked for official documents by a rectangle.

We are a nation that will still argue with a self-service till.

“Unexpected item in bagging area?”

Aye, it’s my dignity, cariad.

The wider question is whether the internet is slowly becoming less open, more controlled, and more dependent on giant platforms acting as digital gatekeepers.

Once your phone decides whether you are old enough for one website, what else might it decide?

News? Social media? Political content? Gambling? Dating apps? A strongly worded comment under a WalesOnline article?

Today it is adult sites. Tomorrow your iPhone may refuse to let you read about council tax unless you prove you are emotionally strong enough.

Still, for Pornhub, this is a partial retreat. For Apple, it is a child-safety badge. For Ofcom, it is another compliance headache.

And for many Welsh iPhone users, it is a confusing evening of software updates, failed scans, and someone in the house asking:

“Why exactly do you need your passport, Barrie?”

Technology was meant to free humanity.

Instead, it has given us a future where your mobile phone knows your date of birth, your shopping habits, your location, your face, your bank card, your sleep pattern, and whether you are trying to access a website you would rather not discuss at chapel coffee morning.

Progress, apparently. Lovely.

Man on Fire (2026) presents itself as a darker, more serialized reimagining of a familiar revenge narrative, stretching its premise across multiple episodes to explore not just the mechanics of vengeance but the emotional erosion that comes with it, and it quickly becomes clear that this isn’t a story interested in easy catharsis or simple moral resolution. The series follows a deeply damaged protagonist whose past is gradually revealed in fragments, using a nonlinear structure that drip-feeds key details just enough to build intrigue without ever fully softening the harder edges of his character, and this approach keeps the audience at a deliberate distance, forcing them to engage with him as both a victim of his past and an active agent of escalating violence. What gives the show its weight is the way it frames revenge not as a heroic journey but as a kind of slow selfdestruction, where each act of brutality chips away at whatever remains of the man he used to be, and even in moments where justice seems justified, there is an undercurrent of unease that never quite disappears.

The emotional core of the series rests heavily on a central relationship that is portrayed with surprising restraint and sincerity, avoiding sentimentality while still allowing genuine warmth to develop, and it’s this connection that gives the story its sense of

HOROSCOPES

definitely deserve kudos for what you’ve done and where you’ve put yourself, but keep things in perspective. There are many more mountains for you to climb and more dues for you to pay. Keep in mind that people have long memories. Helping selflessly today will go a very long

LEO Surprises are popping up all over the

loss when it is inevitably torn apart, acting as the catalyst for everything that follows. Rather than rushing through this bond, the series takes its time to establish small, human moments that make the later violence feel less like spectacle and more like the fallout of something deeply personal, and this careful buildup pays off in a way that makes the protagonist’s descent feel tragically inevitable rather than impulsive. The supporting cast adds further texture, with characters who are rarely reduced to simple villains or allies, instead occupying morally grey spaces that reflect the broader themes of the show, and this ambiguity helps ground the narrative in a world that feels harsh but believable.

Visually, the series leans heavily into a moody and often oppressive aesthetic, using stark contrasts, saturated tones, and occasionally disorienting editing choices to mirror the protagonist’s fractured mindset, and while this style is undeniably striking, it sometimes borders on excess, drawing attention to itself in moments where a lighter touch might have been more effective. Still, when it works, it reinforces the emotional intensity of the story, especially in quieter scenes where silence and stillness are allowed to linger. The action sequences themselves are brutal and deliberately uncomfortable, avoiding stylization in favor of something more raw and immediate, which aligns with the show’s overall refusal to glamorize

violence, though viewers expecting fast-paced thrills may find these moments less frequent than anticipated.

The pacing is one of the series’ more divisive elements, as it prioritizes character introspection and atmosphere over constant narrative momentum, particularly in its middle stretch where the plot seems to pause in favor of deeper psychological exploration, and while this can occasionally feel indulgent, it ultimately contributes to the sense that this is a story about internal collapse as much as external conflict. As the series moves toward its conclusion, it tightens its focus and regains a stronger sense of direction, building toward an ending that feels less like a triumphant resolution and more like an emotional reckoning, one that refuses to offer easy answers or clean closure.

What lingers most after watching is not the violence itself but the emotional aftermath it leaves behind, as the series quietly suggests that revenge, no matter how justified it may seem, cannot truly restore what has been lost, and may in fact deepen the very wounds it seeks to avenge. In that sense, Man on Fire (2026) becomes less about the act of retribution and more about the cost of carrying it out, offering a bleak but thoughtful meditation on grief, guilt, and the fragile possibility of redemption in a world that rarely allows for it.

today. Most are not exactly earthshattering, but one

something you’ve been wondering about for

Don’t be too disappointed by the

of

It’s better that way. Progress has been at a standstill lately, and whatever (or whoever) is in the way will become obvious. React quickly and you’ll be moving forward again soon, whistling like you know something no one else does.

VIRGO

Clear ideas are forming deep inside you, and you have strong confidence in each and every one of them. Take the bull by the horns today and make a bold move toward making them happen. When given the chance, take a leadership role and don’t be afraid to be tough. Whether your people admit it or not, they are looking for someone to guide them and show them good ideas. Your supportive energy will create a feeling of positive “anything goes” energy.

LIBRA

Looking forward in life is a great way to aim for positive changes, and living in the moment is always good, but today it’s looking back that will offer you the most reward, entertainment, and insight. You may think that the past few months were fairly uneventful, but they weren’t. Major shifts occurred that you’ll only now be able to understand. Time has given you a different perspective on the people you brought into your life, and you will see them in a new light.

SCORPIO

Despite your humble nature, your outward personality may be intimidating people more than you realize. Make an effort to sugarcoat what you say and amp up the diplomacy. Some of the people around you are especially thinskinned now. They value your critical eye, but they may not be ready for the unvarnished truth. Keep in mind all the times they’ve focused more on your gifts than on your challenges, and return that generosity without hesitation. Show them your warmhearted nature.

SAGITTARIUS

Part of the burden of having strong opinions is knowing when and where to share them. Today, you might want to experiment with holding back and letting others work it out. Observe the group interaction and reflect on how these people are working together. You will make some interesting connections that inform other areas of your life. There’s a new way of communicating that you haven’t considered before. Consider it today; implement it tomorrow.

CAPRICORN

Lately, you’ve been blowing people away left and right with your problem solving and general supportiveness. People who have a big say in where your life goes next have been watching, and they are impressed. One thing to really make time for today is reflection. After all, what good is it to impress other people if you don’t get to pat yourself on the back a little bit? You’re allowed to give yourself positive reinforcement today. In fact, it is highly recommended.

AQUARIUS Peel back the layers today and you should reveal a sort of skeleton key fact that will open up a lot of doors. A crucial bit of information has been eluding you, and that all ends today. Be frugal with this newfound knowledge and use it only when you need to.

PISCES

Local Windsurf instructors ride the waves with Welsh Sailing Impact awards

Local windsurfers who support the Windswept Watersports are riding the waves this month after being presented with their Welsh Sailing impact Awards.

Volunteer instructors David Picker, Bob Jones, Leslie Burton and Graham Smith have all been recognised for their commitment to encouraging the next generation of windsurfers at the community watersports centre in Dale.

The dedicated team has played an essential role in supporting the Windswept Warriors youth windsurfing club since its launch more than four years ago.

Sarah Bagley, Director of Windswept Watersports, said: “A huge congratulations go to our windsurf volunteers on being chosen for Impact Awards – Bob, Leslie, Graham and Dave have supported us so much by

making our Windsurf Warrior sessions happen every week, and they couldn’t deserve this more.

“They have made a huge impact in making the club what it is today and we’re able to grow the club’s numbers and keep the costs down due to them giving up their Sundays. Since the club started they’ve been so enthusiastic about inspiring the next generation of windsurfers and their passion for the

sport really is Infectious.

“What’s more, the club has gone on to win medals at windsurfing national championships and none of this would have happened without our superstar volunteers.”

Windswept Watersports is a NotFor-Profit organisation which aims to make activities accessible for all, including delivering outreach sessions to local schools, youth and community groups, and running a variety of clubs encouraging local people to enjoy getting on the water. The Windswept Warriors group enables young people aged 10-19 to learn the sport and take their skills to the next level, with Sunday morning sessions for just £10 a go, including all equipment and tuition thanks to its volunteer instructors.

Impact Awardee Leslie said: “I didn’t start windsurfing until my late 30s so I really love helping the juniors to progress. It’s great to see their confidence grow by just having fun on, and in, the water. We just love sharing our sport with youngsters and seeing the enjoyment they get from it, whether that’s improving and progressing their skills or just having a go occasionally.”

Explaining their enthusiasm for giving back to the sport, fellow Impact Awardee Graham said: “I’ve had some fantastic times and I’ve met some amazing people while windsurfing and by volunteering I get the opportunity to give those chances to others. I also love it when I see people progress and what it means to them.”

Award-winning team members Bob and Dave likewise sum up the satisfaction and rewards of seeing young windsurfers progress from beginner to intermediate to themselves becoming instructors.

Bob said: “I love coaching the junior club, seeing their progression week by week, especially those big ‘Hallelujah, I did it’ moments. I’m super proud to be a colleague of Windswept’s young instructors who were part of the junior crew not so far back.”

Welsh Sailing Impact Awards are presented by RYA Cymru Wales to recognise the hard work of individuals and organisations who go the extra mile to support activities afloat, in line with the governing body’s Together on our Waters strategy to create a connected, inspired and inclusive sailing and boating community.

Hester Walker, Club Development Officer for RYA Cymru Wales, said: “This team commit a huge amount of time to supporting the youth windsurfers at Windswept Watersports. Their time allows for the training to be offered at a lower rate, helping to remove the barrier of cost and enabling more young people to get on the water. Dale has become one of the most active windsurfing communities thanks to Windswept Watersports and the fantastic support of these volunteers.”

Wales deserves more than groWn-up slogans

ThiS election should remind every party of one simple truth: voters are not children, and Wales is not a branch office of Westminster.

For too long, politicians have asked people to trust them because they are “serious”, “responsible” or “grown up”. But those words mean little to families waiting for treatment, businesses struggling with costs, farmers facing uncertainty, or young people wondering whether they can ever afford a home in the community where they grew up.

Wales has heard enough

management-speak. We have had missions, milestones, delivery plans and promises of stability. Yet the NHS remains under huge pressure, public transport is patchy, rural communities feel ignored, and too many decisions still seem to be made by people who do not understand life beyond Cardiff Bay or Westminster.

That is why this election matters.

The old certainties are breaking down. Labour can no longer assume Wales will vote Labour because it always has. The Conservatives are fighting to stay relevant. Plaid

Cymru believes it is closer than ever to leading Wales. Reform is trying to turn anger into votes. The Greens and Liberal Democrats are also looking for openings under the new voting system.

Some will see that as chaos. It may also be democracy finally catching up with reality.

People are not stupid. They know when services are failing. They know when promises are too vague. They know when politicians talk about “hard choices” but never seem to make hard choices for themselves. They know

when “grown-up politics” is being used as a way of telling ordinary people to lower their expectations.

Wales does not need politicians who simply sound sensible. It needs politicians with courage, honesty and a plan.

That means being honest about the NHS. Honest about council funding. Honest about farming. Honest about housing. Honest about the Welsh economy. Honest about whether devolution is delivering what people were told it would deliver.

The danger now is that parties learn the wrong lesson. If voters turn away from them, they may blame the leader, the campaign, the media or the mood of the country. The harder truth is that many people no longer believe the system is working for them.

That is not childishness. That is lived experience.

The next Senedd will be larger, more proportional and very different from the one Wales has known. It should also be more accountable. The people elected today should remember that they are not being sent to Cardiff Bay to manage decline with better slogans.

They are being sent there to fight for Wales.

The stakes are high. Wales deserves better than small politics dressed up as maturity.

Stephen Seagull: The red tide is going out, swark!

SWARK! There’s something strange in the wind down Milford Docks this week, and it is not just yesterday’s chips turning in the bin.

For years, Labour in Wales was like the fat gull on the harbour roof. Always there. Always loud. Always first to the food. You could chase it, shout at it, wave your arms at it, and still it would sit there blinking at you like it owned the place.

But now? Swark! The old red bird is wobbling.

Plaid Cymru is circling Cardiff Bay with its beak sharpened. Reform is flapping about like a gull trapped in a Tesco bag. The Tories are standing on the quay wondering who stole their sandwich. And Sir Keir Starmer, the great sensible grown-up, looks like a man who came to launch a lifeboat and forgot the sea.

They told us the adults were back in the room.

Well, Stephen has peered through the window, bach, and the room looks empty. There’s a half-eaten biscuit, a broken promise, and someone has written “change” on a Post-it note and stuck it to the same old wall.

Wales has waited long enough.

Our hospitals are creaking. Our buses disappear like dropped chips.

Our young people are priced out.

Our farmers are furious. Our town centres look tired. And every time something goes wrong, some smooth-feathered

This election is not just another flap round the harbour. It feels like the tide turning. Not because everyone in Wales suddenly wants the same thing, but because people have had enough of being taken for granted.

Wales is not England’s spare room. Wales is not a branch office. Wales is not a bit of scenery to stand in front of when London politicians want to look humble in a fleece.

And beware the loud birds too. Reform makes a mighty racket, but Stephen knows a racket when he hears one. Any gull can scream over a chip tray. It does not mean he can steer the ferry.

So vote, bach. Vote like Wales matters. Vote like Withybush matters. Vote like your farm, your school, your wage packet and your bus stop matter.

Because when the tide goes out, you see what’s been rotting underneath.

And down here on Milford Docks, Stephen can smell it already.

Swark!

minister says: “Lessons must be learned.”

SWARK! Learned? They’ve had so many lessons they should have a PhD in not listening.

Exotic Pets on the rise in Wales

A REcENT survey has revealed that nearly 4,000 dangerous wild animals are being privately kept in great Britain – 463 of which are living in Wales. The international wildlife charity is calling on the uK government to immediately review the law and put a stop to some of the world’s most remarkable, but often deadly, creatures being kept as ‘pets’ in unsuitable captive conditions.

Born Free’s research reviewed the number of Dangerous Wild Animal (DWA) Act licences granted by local authorities in 2020 across England, Scotland and Wales, and the variety of species being privately kept. Local authorities in Wales revealed that the licences granted cover 463 dangerous wild animals residing in the area, of which there are at least:

• 400 Wild boars

• 2 Asian elephants

• 7 venomous snakes including a Carpet viper and an Arizona black rattlesnake

• 1 Gila monster (venomous lizard)

• 40 Bison

• 2 primates including a Cotton-top tamarin and a Spider monkey

• 10 Ostrich

• 1 Serval cat

Shockingly, the entire combined data across all authorities highlighted that a total of 210 DWA licences were granted for the keeping of 3,951 individual wild animals including:

• 320 wild cats (including 61 big cats – 11 lions, 8 tigers, 11 leopards, 18 pumas, 10 cheetahs, 2 ligers and 1 jaguar)

• 274 primates (including over 150 lemurs)

• 158 crocodilians

• 508 venomous snakes (including 57 diamondback rattlesnakes)

• 332 scorpions

• 106 venomous lizards

• 2 elephants

Other species on the DWA list that are being kept as pets or in private collections in the UK include zebras, camels, fossa (a kind of civet), hyaena, sun bears, wolves, and otters.

Dr Mark Jones, Veterinarian and Born Free’s Head of Policy, states: “Born Free has been collating and analysing DWA data for over 20 years. Since the millennium the wild animal welfare and conservation charity has seen a dramatic increase in the number of exotic pets in private ownership, including a 94% increase in the number of venomous snakes, 57% increase in wild cats, 198% increase in crocodilians and over a 2000% increase in scorpions. However, these figures are likely to represent only the tip of the iceberg. They only record those animals being kept and registered with a DWA licence. Born Free believes that many additional dangerous wild animals are being kept without a licence.”

Currently, under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, anyone in Britain can keep a dangerous wild animal as long as they obtain a licence from their Local Authority. The licencing process requires the applicant to demonstrate that their animals are properly contained so as to prevent escape and protect the public, but this does little to ensure the welfare of the animals or the protection of the owner or anyone else visiting the property. While changes have been made to the schedule, Born Free is highlighting the fact

that the Act itself has not been reviewed substantially for more than 40 years. This means, for example, that species such as Komodo dragons, other large monitors, and large constrictor snakes are not included on the schedule, despite the fact that they could pose a serious risk to their owners, and to members of the public, should they escape. Furthermore, there is long-standing concern about widespread non-compliance with the Act, especially with respect to venomous reptiles and invertebrates.

Dr Mark Jones commented: “It is unbelievable that, in this day and age, so many dangerous animals, including big cats, large primates, crocodiles and venomous snakes, are in private ownership in the UK. Increasing demand for all kinds of wild animals as exotic pets puts owners and the wider public at risk of injury or disease. It also results in serious animal suffering, and the demand increases the pressure on many wild populations which are often already under threat.”

Just last year a hybrid Savannah cat escaped in Hampstead, London, while a seven-foot-long Boa constrictor appeared in someone’s back garden and then turned on its rescuer biting his hand and

wrapping itself around his wrist on the Isle of Sheppey. There have been other horror stories where a woman was bitten in the eye by a python at Mayfair club and almost blinded, while a man in Hampshire was killed by his 8ft African rock python. These are just a handful of cases that have been reported. In fact, records held by the RSPCA report that their specially-trained exotics officers rescued over 4,000 exotic animals in 2018 alone. Due to the nature of the animals, most owners fail to report escapes or attacks for fear of the animal being removed or their licence revoked.

Mark continued: “The UK likes to claim to be at the forefront of efforts to protect nature and improve the welfare of animals, yet our legislation governing the keeping of and trade in exotic pets is woefully outdated. While the Government’s recent proposal to ban the keeping of and trade in primates as pets is a welcome first step, there are many other species that need to be protected from this form of exploitation. The Dangerous Wild Animals Act should be overhauled as a matter of urgency, in order to phase-out the private keeping of and trade in those species that clearly don’t belong in people’s homes.”

Sixth-former firefighter balances schoolwork with saving lives

When the alerter sounds, 18-year-old Bobi Jones swaps his school for his local fire station, serving as one of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s (MAWWFRS) youngest oncall Firefighters. He responds to incidents in his own time and has been granted special permission by his school, Ysgol Bro Teifi to leave free periods whenever an emergency call comes in.

Bobi applied to become an on-call firefighter shortly before his 18th birthday and follows in the footsteps of his brother, father, uncle and grandfather, marking three generations of firefighters and over 75 years of combined service. His family’s legacy reflects the strong community roots and sense of duty that have underpinned

MAWWFRS for three decades.

Having spent time around his local fire station and the fire and rescue service from a young age, Bobi was keen to join the service. With an upcoming point of entry test, he applied as soon as he was eligible.

After completing his initial training, Bobi joined the crew at Newcastle Emlyn Fire Station in November 2025 and has enjoyed responding to incidents while further building his skills and knowledge. One standout incident was a fire at a local gym where he was involved in rolling out hoses and establishing safety lines.

As well as following in his family’s footsteps, Bobi says he joined MAWWFRS as he wanted to support his local community, which he has found

really rewarding. Alongside his operational role and playing for Newcastle Emlyn Rugby Club, Bobi is studying A-Level Business and Sport and plans to start an electrician apprenticeship after finishing school, with a long-term goal of becoming a Wholetime Firefighter.

Talking about balancing his role as an on-call firefighter with life as a sixth-form pupil at Ysgol Bro Teifi in Llandysul, Bobi said:

“There’s a good crew here at Newcastle Emlyn Station, which includes members of my family. We all support each other and there’s great camaraderie here.”

Asked what advice he would give to anyone considering becoming an on-call firefighter, Bobi added:

“I would say absolutely go for it, the availability options are flexible enough to suit everyone and the Service is always recruiting for more oncall firefighters.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is currently recruiting for on-call firefighters who, like Bobi, remain an essential part in protecting communities. The role of an on-call Firefighter provides many opportunities for personal and professional development, through training, teamwork, leadership and problem solving. On-call firefighters receive payment for their services, including retainer fees and call-out payments, supplementing their income from other employment.

Imported meat bill hits £5bn as Co-op calls for stronger backing for UK farmers

ThE co-op has called for stronger government support for British farmers after new figures showed the UK’s imported meat bill rose to more than £5bn last year.

HMRC data obtained by the retailer shows the value of meat imported into the UK increased by 15 per cent year-on-year, from £4.33bn in 2024 to £5.06bn in 2025.

The Co-op said the figures raised fresh concerns about the resilience of Britain’s food system

at a time of climate change, global conflict and disruption to international supply chains.

Poultry was the most imported protein, worth almost £2bn in 2025. Poland and the Netherlands accounted for the largest share, while poultry imports from Thailand rose by almost 50 per cent compared with the previous year.

The retailer, which says it sells and uses 100 per cent British meat and poultry, said the UK’s growing reliance on overseas

supply chains left shoppers and farmers more exposed to global shocks.

It is now backing proposals from the Co-operative Party calling for agricultural cooperatives to be scaled up and better supported as part of the Government’s long-term farming plans.

The policy paper argues that farmer-owned co-operatives can help producers share costs, reduce risk, invest collectively and secure stronger bargaining

power in the food supply chain.

There are currently estimated to be more than 500 agricultural co-operatives in the UK, generating income of more than £9bn.

Paul Gerrard, Director of Public Affairs and Campaigns at Co-op, said: “The issue of supply chain resilience is upon us now and there is a clear and demonstrable benefit to the cooperative business model in agriculture.

“An expansion of agricultural co-operation is both an economic opportunity and a political imperative: it directly addresses the need for a more secure and sustainable food system, one less exposed to the volatility of global markets and the instability in a rapidly changing world.”

Joe Fortune, Leader of the Cooperative Party, said co-operation was “a form of strategic resilience” and called on Government to help grow the sector.

The party’s proposals include clearer government guidance for farmers, stronger representation for co-operatives in policymaking, improved access to finance, support for producer organisations, and greater use of public procurement to back British farming.

FUW strengthens local team to support Pembrokeshire farmers

ThE Farmers’ union of Wales (FuW) is strengthening its local presence across pembrokeshire and west Wales with the appointments of Elizabeth King and Bethan Morgan, reinforcing its ongoing investment in frontline support for farmers during a period of significant change for the industry.

Elizabeth King joins the FUW in the newly created role of Regional Lead, working across west Wales to oversee and support the Union’s member services. She brings vast experience from previous roles in agricultural policy and advisory services, including working for a national rural charity and advising on farm diversification projects.

Bethan Morgan joins the Pembrokeshire office as a Member Services Co-ordinator supporting the delivery of day-to-day services to FUW members locally. Born and raised in Pembrokeshire, she spent the past 27 years working at a mixed veterinary practice.

They join the experienced team of Rebecca Voyle, Member Services Manager for Pembrokeshire, and Susan James, Member Services Coordinator, forming a strengthened FUW presence in the County focused on providing practical, on-the-ground support to farmers.

Commenting on the appointments, FUW Group Chief Executive Guto Bebb said:

“As a Union, we are committed to investing in our people and strengthening the services we provide to members. These appointments reflect our determination to ensure farmers have access to the local knowledge, expertise and support they need.

FUW highlights concerns

ThE Farmers’ union of Wales has raised concerns regarding the cost and delivery of veterinary services associated with the Welsh government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) universal requirements.

Writing to the Welsh Government, FUW President Ian Rickman has outlined issues relating to Universal Action 12 (UA12), particularly the Animal Health Improvement Cycle (AHIC), as the Single Application Form (SAF) deadline approaches.

The Union reports that some farmers are encountering high and variable costs for completing AHIC requirements, alongside a lack of clarity around what is expected. In one example, a veterinary practice in south Wales has quoted a fixed fee of £500 plus VAT for completing the AHIC, including associated assessments and documentation.

The FUW has also been made aware that some veterinary practices are currently unable to provide quotes, citing a need for further guidance. This has contributed to uncertainty among farmers as they consider participation in the scheme.

Commenting on the situation, FUW President Ian Rickman said: “Our members need clear and consistent information in

Working alongside Rebecca and Susan, I have no doubt that Elizabeth and Bethan will be excellent additions to the Pembrokeshire team, helping to support members and rural communities as farmers navigate the biggest changes to farm support in generations.”

With the Single Application Form

window open until 15 May 2026, FUW Pembrokeshire continues to support farmers as they consider their options between the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) and a tapered Basic Payment Scheme (BPS).

For more information, contact the Pembrokeshire office at pembrokeshire@fuw.org.uk or call 01437 762913.

over Veterinary Costs of Sustainable Farming Scheme

order to make informed decisions about entering the scheme. At present, there is some uncertainty around both the requirements and the associated costs, which is causing apprehension within the sector.

Greater clarity for both farmers and veterinary practices would help ensure the scheme can be implemented in a way that is fair, proportionate and workable on the ground.”

The FUW notes that completion of all Universal Actions is required to access SFS payments, and has emphasised the importance of ensuring that requirements are practical and proportionate.

The Union has asked the Welsh Government to provide further clarification to veterinary practices on the scope and delivery of AHIC requirements, to offer guidance on appropriate pricing approaches, and to provide reassurance for farmers where extortionate costs may be outside of their control.

The FUW has indicated it is keen to continue discussions with Welsh Government officials to help ensure the scheme is implemented in a way that is workable for all farming businesses.

Farming company fined £19,000 for damaging protected wildlife site

June that year.

Mr Watkins said: “Even after the letters were sent, no consent request was made.

“The common sense conclusion was that, where the original agreement was clear and advice had been given years prior, this was a deliberate act by the landowners of spreading slurry on the SSSI.”

Jenkins Ty Hen Ltd pleaded guilty to intentionally or recklessly destroying or damaging flora on the protected site, contrary to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The company also admitted permitting the use of manure, slurry, silage liquor, fertiliser or lime without written consent from NRW, knowing it was likely to damage rare flora and fauna as well as geological and physiographical features.

Defending, solicitor Harry Dickens said the company had not deliberately set out to damage the land.

“This is more akin to the business damaging the land rather than setting out within their practices to do that damage,” he said.

He added that various contractors were used at the farm and were not always aware of the regulations.

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

A cARDigAN farming company has been ordered to pay almost £20,000 after recklessly damaging a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Jenkins Ty Hen Ltd, run by David Glyn Jenkins and William Lloyd Jenkins, of Ty Hen, Verwig, admitted damaging the Llwyn Ysgaw, Caeau Crug Bychan and Ty Gwyn SSSI through the unauthorised use of manure, slurry, fertilisers and lime.

The offences took place between June 21 and July 31, 2024.

The court heard that Natural Resources Wales had repeatedly warned the company about how the protected land should be managed.

Aled Watkins, prosecuting for NRW, said an agreement made in 2004 made clear that the landowners needed written consent before carrying out certain activities on the site, including the use of slurry, herbicides, pesticides, fertiliser or lime.

He said: “A significant amount of guidance, advice and warnings has been directed to the company over a substantial period of time, as there have been problems before.”

The court was told advice had been given in 2017, with further discussions in 2021. Further problems were identified in 2024, leading to advice letters and then a formal warning in

“The defendants did not go out intentionally to harm the flora and fauna,” he said.

“Yes, they had foresight of the warnings and the previous agreement, but this is more akin to wilful blindness rather than going out intending to damage the land. It was not a flagrant disregard.

“The defendants were not loutish in their usage of the land, they are not vandals, they have not been silent and neither have they stonewalled NRW.”

Mr Dickens said the farmers accepted the need to restore the land and were keen to work productively with the authorities.

District Judge Mark Layton said Jenkins Ty Hen Ltd had breached NRW requirements.

“They spread fertilisers, herbicides and slurry on the land which was a breach,” he said.

“This was clearly a deliberate act of culpability and a complete disregard after already being given advice and warnings.”

The court heard the company’s most recent financial turnover was just over £1.6m. It was described by the defence as a micro-business.

Jenkins Ty Hen Ltd was ordered to pay £19,940.66, made up of a £9,000 fine, £8,940.66 costs to NRW and a £2,000 surcharge.

A restoration order was also made requiring work to improve the quality of the damaged SSSI land.

Place Welsh farming families at the heart of rural policy, says NFU Cymru

on the eve of the Senedd Elections, NFu cymru has delivered a clear message that the next Welsh government must place Welsh farming families at the heart of rural policy.

in the last of a series of video messages aimed at parties and candidates contesting this Thursday’s Senedd Elections, NFu cymru has stressed the need for a balanced approach to land use change that considers the long term economic, environmental, social and cultural impact of the policy choices made in cardiff Bay.

At the core of the union’s asks of aspiring politicians is the need to ensure that land use change does not come at the expense of food production, nor should it lead to the fragmentation and destruction of rural communities.

The skills and expertise built up over generations on family farms in rural communities deliver the raw

ingredients which support the Welsh food and drink industry, a sector turning over £10.2 billion annually and employing around 223,500 people – 17% of Wales’ workforce. Wales’ rural areas are strongholds of Welsh language and culture, with 43% of those involved in agriculture speaking Welsh, compared to 19% of the wider Welsh population. Any policy changes which have an adverse impact on rural areas will also, by extension, impact negatively on our Welsh identity.

As well as delivering significant economic benefits and protecting Wales’ cultural heritage, the country’s network of family farms also plays a key role in national food security, the importance of which has been further accentuated at a time when supply chains have been significantly disrupted by increasing global volatility.

Bringing to life this key ask from the union’s growing

WhiLE attention this week will quite rightly focus on the Senedd election, decisions in Westminster continue to have a significant impact on the economic and political landscape in which our farms operate.

That reality was brought into sharp focus last week during a meeting in London between Farmers’ Union of Wales’ and Defra’s Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, Dame Angela Eagle. At a time of mounting global instability, the FUW used the opportunity to deliver a clear and consistent message: food security must be treated as a strategic, UK-wide priority.

Together Senedd Elections manifesto was NFu cymru Next generation Development group member Rhodri Wyn Jones, who farms with his family near Dolgellau. in this latest pre-election video case study, Rhodri highlights how integral farming families are to their local communities and Welsh language and culture. he impresses upon politicians the need to ensure that the policy decisions they make allow agricultural land to remain in agricultural production.

he said: “We understand that there is demand for this land by businesses and other people, but it is important to note that this land is a lot more than our farms and that the people put a lot into the community, the Welsh language and our culture locally. Farmers are more than the land that they farm and i would like to have the same opportunity that my forefathers have already had.”

spanning all four nations. A fragmented policy approach risks undermining resilience, whereas coordinated action offers the best chance of safeguarding domestic production.

The context for this discussion is increasingly uncertain. International conflict and disruptionparticularly in fuel and fertiliser markets - are driving up input costs and exposing the fragility of global supply chains. Many of these pressures are being felt daily on Welsh farms, impacting profitability and, ultimately, the price and availability of food.

Since the escalation of conflict in the Gulf, fertiliser pricesparticularly urea and ammonium nitratehave risen by 20 to 30%, with the FUW calling for better transparency around fertiliser stocks and distribution across the UK.

During the meeting, FUW representatives stressed that such challenges cannot be addressed in isolation.

The UK’s food system is deeply interconnected, with supply chains

Central to the FUW’s message was the need for a joinedup and collaborative approach to both food security and farm profitability. This means not only recognising the strategic importance of agriculture, but also ensuring regular, meaningful engagement between government and the farming sector. Transparency - particularly around key inputs such as fertiliser - and improved communication were also highlighted as essential steps in building trust and stability.

Food security is too often viewed through the lens of shortterm supply or price pressures. In reality, it is inseparable from the long-term viability of farm businesses, the sustainability of rural communities, and the resilience of the wider economy.

As global volatility shows little sign of easing, the need for a coherent, UK-wide strategy has never been greater. The FUW’s intervention in Westminster was both timely and necessary - providing a timely reminder that food production is also a matter of national security.

Whatever the outcome of the Senedd election, that message must continue to resonate on both sides of the M4.

LEPAS is in tune with UK drivers as it launches UK Driving Manifesto

Fo LL o W i N g the release of its LE pAS u K Design Manifesto, launched after the LE pAS L6’s European Debut and showcase of the flagship L8 during Milan Design Week, and ahead of the official u K launch, LE pAS now announces its u K Driving Manifesto.

The LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto has the elegant pursuit of motion at its heart. For LEPAS, speed is precision – an understanding of when to accelerate, when to hold back, and how to move with intent. The LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto decrees that every input should be deliberate, every moment controlled, creating a sense of flow and composure, as if the car and driver are aligned in a single, fluid rhythm.

For LEPAS, agility and elegance define how speed is expressed. All LEPAS models coming to the UK are designed by the UK engineering team to respond seamlessly to the drivers’ instincts, with quick but graceful turn-in and taut body control giving a responsive driving feel. The LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto highlights how every car journey should express elegance in motion, where performance is not

just measured in traditional ways, but in how effortlessly and beautifully the journey is achieved.

The LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto is deeply inspired by the spirit of the leopard –a fundamental tenet of the brand. The core principles of driving feel, and agility are specifically inspired by the characteristics of the leopard: power, speed, strength, elegance and precision.

This irresistible combination of beauty, grace and energy is fundamental to the success of the leopard, whose agility, pace and stealth combine effortlessly to make it one of nature’s greatest predators. This combination is also crucial to the LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto and is intended to inspire LEPAS drivers to move stealthily and gracefully through town traffic, as well as use the cars’ power and pace to comfortably and enjoyably dispatch monotonous motorway miles.

LEPAS will introduce three SUVs to the UK market in the next 12 months, starting with the flagship LEPAS L8 in the third quarter of the year, swiftly followed by the LEPAS L6 and the LEPAS L4, recently seen at the Beijing Motor Show.

The flagship LEPAS L8 will sit at the top of the range, with the mid-size LEPAS L6 catering to the mid-range, and the compact LEPAS L4, completing the UK offering. All vehicles are underpinned by the brand’s LEX platform, which has been designed to support next-generation electrified and hybrid vehicle development.

LEPAS vehicles will be offered with a choice of optimised, distinct powertrains.

The hybrid models will feature the brand’s LEPAS Super Hybrid technology, which offers owners both low emissions and remarkable performance.

LEPAS’s battery electric vehicles (EV) are presented with an ultra-efficient, rapidcharging battery.

Gary Lan, CEO of LEPAS UK, said: “It is well known that UK drivers are among the most discerning in the world. The absolute value they place on strong driving dynamics is something we recognise is of great importance. We feel that the LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto will address any concerns that keen UK drivers have regarding the satisfaction and enjoyment of driving a LEPAS vehicle on British roads.

“The LEPAS UK Driving Manifesto focuses on the profound importance of delivering elegant driving dynamics and a poised road performance to LEPAS drivers. This allows them to feel at one with their vehicles, to be inspired with confidence and assurance, and use the cars’ abilities to their greatest advantage.

“Our ambition is not just to answer the desire that UK drivers have for a car with power, pace and performance, but to do it in such a way that LEPAS is intrinsically linked to the concept of ‘loving driving’. A car which is inspired by the elegance, balance, precision and dynamism of the leopard is a natural match for a driver who values the idea of ‘taking the long way home’ simply to enjoy the driving dynamics of their car.”

LEPAS – which is a blend of “Leopard” and “Passion” –makes vehicles for people who move with purpose and live with style. Rooted in intelligent design and authenticity, the brand goes beyond mobility to connect with creative, culture-shaping communities that value craftsmanship, bold aesthetics and selfexpression.

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Geely Auto adds new Ultra variant to Geely EX5 range

gEELY Auto uK has announced the addition of the ultra to the geely Ex5 line-up, with cars expected in dealerships from 05 May 2026. The Ultra is the flagship variant of the geely Ex5 range bringing increased range, a larger battery, towing capacity and an additional exterior colour, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to offering innovative, value-driven new energy vehicle solutions for uK customers.

At the heart of the new Geely EX5 Ultra is a 68.39 kWh battery, delivering a WLTP range of up to 280 miles, offering customers greater confidence for longer journeys while retaining the smooth, responsive driving experience expected of Geely’s Global Electric Architecture (GEA). The Geely EX5 Ultra will accelerate from 0–62 mph in just 7.6 seconds and produces 320 Nm of torque, combining strong performance with impressive efficiency. For the first time in the Geely EX5 line-up, the Ultra introduces a 750kg braked towing capacity, supported by Trailer Stability Assist. This upgrade significantly enhances versatility, making the Geely EX5 Ultra wellsuited to active lifestyles, light towing and leisure use.

The Geely EX5 Ultra also debuts a new exterior paint option, Rainforest Green, joining the existing colour palette and giving customers an additional distinctive choice inspired by natural landscapes.

Whilst the range-topping Ultra is priced at £38,990 OTR, the Geely EX5 starts from £31,990 OTR and offers a high level of technology and safety specification right from the entry level SE, including a 15.4” central

infotainment screen, 10.2” digital instrument cluster, surround view camera, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and comprehensive suite of ADAS tools. The Ultra will also feature the same additional specification as the Max, including a 13.8” heads-up display, a 16-speaker FlyMe sound system, a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate and front seat ventilation and massage function.

“The launch of the Geely EX5 Ultra marks yet another important step forward for Geely Auto in the UK. We’ve listened to customer and retailer feedback and responded with a

model that offers greater range, higher specification and increased everyday usability, while remaining true to our commitment to outstanding value”, said Michael Yang, Managing Director of Geely Auto UK.

“We also recognise that a larger battery brings additional weight and higher energy consumption, so we have carefully struck a balance between battery weight and range enhancement – and as with the rest of the Geely EX5 range, both the battery and the vehicle are covered by an 8-year warranty, giving our customers added peace of mind.”

Continuing with the compelling launch offer of a reduced cost home wallbox in partnership with Andersen EV, Geely Auto is offering all Geely EX5 customers a dual-branded Andersen 7kW smart home charger with professional installation for just £499. And with a market value of £1,499, Geely Auto is both saving customers £1,000 and helping make the transition to electric mobility as seamless as possible.

The Geely EX5 Ultra is on sale now through Geely’s UK retailer network, with first customer deliveries expected from May 2026.

Ty Bert Caribbean Kitchen brings taste of the Caribbean to Newport

A NEW café has opened in Newport, pembrokeshire, bringing caribbean flavours to the seaside town — with affordable bed and breakfast accommodation also planned for the near future.

Ty Bert Caribbean Kitchen has opened in the former youth hostel at the old school on Lower St Mary Street.

The venture is being run by Newport local Roberta James, who hopes to reopen the building’s five bedrooms as budget accommodation as soon as possible.

The café, which opened earlier this month, serves Caribbean dishes including jerk chicken, barbecue pork belly and goat curry, alongside more traditional options such as baked potatoes, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cold drinks and cake.

Roberta said the idea began after she responded to a Facebook post by Newport Town Council asking what the hostel, which had been closed since Covid, could be used for.

Soon afterwards, she was putting together a business plan and submitting it to Pembrokeshire County Council, drawing on her family’s background in catering and hospitality.

“I wanted to bring it back as a hostel but also have a place for the community and somewhere to use for events and groups,” she said.

The Caribbean theme was inspired by a holiday to Antigua.

Roberta said: “I am a foodie and I loved the food there. It was simple and flavoursome.”

She is recreating those flavours with the help of her friend Jason, who is from the Caribbean.

Box meals are available to eat in or take away, with protein mains served with rice, potato, coleslaw and salad for £12.95.

“The menu is perfect for families or for people that like a bit of spice and something a bit different,” Roberta said.

Customers have already been taking meals down to the beach or Parrog, while those eating in can use the downstairs café seating or a large family-friendly room upstairs, complete with big tables and board games.

oberta said: “The response

has been really good. We have had a lot of the locals coming in. They have been really supportive.

“During the Easter holidays we had tourists coming in. They really enjoyed having something different and reasonably priced.”

Ty Bert Caribbean Kitchen is currently open from Friday to Monday, from 12:00pm to 8:00pm, with plans to open on Thursdays later in the season.

Diners are also welcome to bring a bottle with their meal.

Roberta said she hopes to open the hostel as soon as possible. Painting parties have already been held to freshen up the two dormitory rooms, two double rooms and one family room.

She is now waiting for Pembrokeshire County Council, which is leasing the property to her, to repair the boiler.

Roberta said transforming the former hostel into boutique budget accommodation, while creating the café, had been a real community effort, with friends and local businesses pitching in.

“There have been lots of lovely people in the community offering to help,” she said. “They want us to succeed, which is really nice.”

More information is available on the Ty Bert Facebook page.

Manorbier caravan park call refused by national park

A cALL to allow a pembrokeshire caravan park to change part of its site from touring vans to static units without a formal planning application has been refused.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Norfolk-based Park Farm Opco Ltd, through Chipping Norton-based agent Laister Planning Limited, sought a Lawful Development Certificate for the proposed stationing of static caravans in lieu of touring caravans, year-round, at Park Farm Holiday Park, Manorbier.

Asupporting statement accompanying the application said: “The purpose of this application is to confirm that the touring caravans so permitted for year-round occupation on the western field at Park Farm, are capable of being replaced by static caravan pitches without effecting a material change of use. There is no specific number of touring or static caravans which is being sought at this juncture.”

It says Park Farm Holiday Park comprises of two areas, area A having some 61 owner-occupied static caravans, and area B used for touring caravan pitches and tents.

Planning permission was originally granted way back in 1956 for the caravan site, on a temporary basis, a Lawful Development Certificate for an existing use for the use of the site for up to 70 static caravans granted in December 1998, mainly covering area A.

The statement said the lawfulness

of siting caravans year-round was previously confirmed by the park in 2024 “use as a campsite for touring caravans (not including twin-unit static caravans) and tents which shall be occupied for holiday use only and used as temporary, non-permanent units on a year-round basis”.

Of the proposals, it said: “The site is currently used for the stationing of touring caravans all year round. Most of the caravans on the site are stationed on what is called a ‘seasonal’ basis, where the owners leave them permanently stationed on the site and use them as holiday homes, paying an annual ‘seasonal’ fee.

“The proposed use of the site is to replace the permanently stationed touring caravans with permanently stationed static caravans. No specific number is provided, as no number is provided in any of the existing certificates, but it is anticipated that the total number of caravans in the application site will inevitably be reduced as the caravans are generally larger.

“There would be no other change in the way the site is operated, and the intention is to use the caravans for holiday purposes.”

An officer report recommending the certificate of lawfulness for the change be refused, saying it was “not satisfied that the evidence accompanying the application is sufficient to establish that the proposed use would be lawful”.

It said that while lawfulness certificates for tourers had been granted “it is considered that the siting of singleunit statics in lieu of those tourers, as now proposed, would be inconsistent with the lawful use of the site, and cannot be considered lawful in the same way,” adding “the changes proposed would result in a definable character change to the site of a magnitude that would be sufficient to amount to a material change of use requiring planning permission”. The application for a certificate of lawfulness was refused on the grounds “the proposed use of the site would represent a material change of use requiring planning permission for which no permitted development rights exist, meaning a specific grant of planning permission is needed in order for the scheme to proceed”.

Pembrokeshire Paddle West South Quay boat shed approved

A pADDLEBoARDiNg and canoeing company’s call for an extension to a boat shed at pembroke’s South Quay, below its historic castle, has been given the go-ahead by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, G Booth of Paddle West CIC, through agent James Dwyer Associates, sought permission for an extension to the stone-built boathouse, adjacent to the cliff on South Quay fronting the Mill Pond, Pembroke.

A supporting statement said: “It is intended to erect a single storey ‘leanto’ building, or ‘shed’ for the storage of boats, such as canoes and kayaks, and related equipment, on a vacant space adjacent to the existing stonebuilt boathouse.”

It added: “The boathouse and the intended adjacent boat storage shed is located, as is to be expected, in close proximity to water, the Mill Pond. The Mill Pond is the main area of activity for Paddle West, a Community Interest Company, providing boating activities, kayaking, canoeing and paddle

boarding, frequently for young people and families.”

It went on to say: “It is intended that the structure would be lightweight, erected on the exiting hard standing. The ‘shed’ would be used for the storage of boats and related equipment.”

With regard to the historic setting, it added: “Although the stone-built boathouse appears not to be listed, it is recognised that the walls above are listed and together they are a piece.

“Accordingly, through form and external materials proposed, timber cladding and profile sheet roofing, the aim is to ensure that the structure would be subservient and muted and not detract or compete with the visual aesthetic of the boathouse or historic walls. In effect the addition would blend into the background.”

The application, supported by Pembroke Town Council, was conditionally approved by county

planners.

The boathouse is sited near to the new Henry Tudor Centre in South Quay, which is due to open in Spring 2027.

The centre, expected to receive around 30,000 visitors a year, will tell the story of Henry Tudor, son of Pembroke, his Welsh ancestry and his

impact on our national story, Welsh culture and our wider British heritage. The restored derelict South Quay buildings will also house a new library and community café, and a healthcare, social services and supported employment facility in the adjoining premises.

Local St John Ambulance cadets confirmed national first aid champions

St John Ambulance is proud to share that three local St John Ambulance cadets have been crowned National First Aid champions after competing against eight other cadet teams representing counties across Wales.

The team, comprising Emily Williams (Yr 10, Ysgol Bro Gwaun), Ruby Collins (Yr 10, Ysgol Henri Tudor), and Gemma Tilbury (Yr 11, Ysgol Henri Tudor) represented the whole of Dyfed, and demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork, and composure throughout three demanding rounds.

The competition consisted of

a first aid knowledge quiz and exam, followed by a practical skills challenge assessing communication, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure—an area in which they excelled. The final round featured a complex, theatrically produced first aid scenario. Here, the team showed remarkable calm and professionalism as they stabilised a casualty with a severe compound bleed involving a large object lodged in the wound. They also managed distressed and aggressive members of the public, and successfully resuscitated an unresponsive, non-breathing

casualty using CPR and a defibrillator—all completed in record time.

In Pembrokeshire, cadets train every Monday evening during term time from 5:45–7:15pm, with sessions focussing on practical, hands-on learning of real-life first aid skills, including CPR, defibrillator use, treatment of severe wounds, allergic reactions, choking, strains and sprains, head injuries, heart attacks, hypothermia, and much more. Training is engaging and interactive, often involving active, game-based learning, ensuring there is rarely a dull moment.

Cadets also have the

opportunity to support a wide range of events delivered by St John Ambulance Cymru. Working alongside adult volunteers and healthcare professionals, they engage with the public at events of all sizes, applying their skills in real-world, and sometimes lifesaving, situations.

Beyond events, cadets are encouraged to share their knowledge within the community, helping to lead first aid demonstrations and inspire others. Previous outreach has included sessions with Scouts, Cubs, Brownies, and Girlguiding groups, as well as senior community organisations such as the Pembroke Lions and specialist charities like Pembrokeshire People First. On a larger scale, cadets played a key role in organising and delivering “Defibruary,” where they helped lead a team of St John first aiders to train over 950 students at Henri Tudor in a single day in February 2026.

If you are interested in volunteering, opportunities are available for cadets aged 11–16 and adults aged 16+. We are always keen to welcome new members and are happy to discuss opportunities for adults to support the cadet programme as youth leaders. To find out nore visit https://www.sjacymru.org.uk/ volunteer

FOI raises fresh questions over plan to close Pontyates GP surgery

A FREEDoM of information disclosure has raised serious questions over plans to close Meddygfa’r Sarn in pontyates, with claims the health board failed to properly attempt to recruit permanent doctors before recommending its shutdown.

The row centres on Hywel Dda University Health Board, which is due to make a final decision on the surgery’s future later this month.

An FOI response reveals that while the board cited a “lack of recruitment interest” in its January report, there is limited evidence of any recent, targeted recruitment campaign specifically aimed at the Pontyates practice.

Instead, the board confirmed that salaried GP roles were advertised in 2020 across its wider portfolio of managed practices — rather than as a focused effort to fill posts at Meddygfa’r Sarn itself. Those vacancies did not result in successful appointments.

‘No REAL ATTEMpT’

Independent Senedd candidate Carl Peters-Bond, who is also a patient at the surgery, has strongly criticised the health board, accusing it of presenting a misleading picture to justify closure.

e said: “They cited a lack of recruitment interest as justification for closing this surgery — but they never actually ran a proper recruitment campaign for it.

“Sending out general adverts years ago is not the same as making a serious,

targeted effort to keep a vital community service alive.”

He also raised concerns about the consultation process, claiming it focused on the impact of closure rather than asking whether closure should happen at all.

FuLLY RELiANT oN LocuMS

The FOI confirms that Meddygfa’r Sarn currently has no salaried GPs and is entirely dependent on locum doctors.

While the health board says this model is unsustainable in the long term, the same disclosure shows several other managed practices across the region also rely heavily on locum staff — some to a significant degree.

Cost data included in the response

suggests Meddygfa’r Sarn is not the most expensive practice per patient within the health board’s area.

ALTERNATiVE opTioNS uNcLear

Another key issue raised by campaigners is the apparent lack of explored alternatives.

The FOI response indicates that the health board does not hold information on alternative local solutions, including potential relocation or different service models within the Pontyates area.

Campaigners argue this suggests closure was considered before all options had been properly examined.

A 52-page independent report submitted as part of the consultation process states that dispersing patients to

other surgeries should only be considered as a last resort, after full recruitment efforts and capacity assessments have been carried out.

hEALTh BoARD

poSiTioN

Hywel Dda University Health Board maintains that the surgery, which serves around 4,350 patients, has faced longstanding recruitment difficulties and increasing reliance on temporary staff. It says a Vacant Practice Panel concluded that dispersing patients to neighbouring surgeries would provide a more sustainable long-term solution. The board has also acknowledged that transport and access concerns are likely to be a major issue for patients if the closure goes ahead, with a full Equality Impact Assessment expected to be considered before a final decision.

DEciSioN LATER ThiS MoNTh

The future of Meddygfa’r Sarn will be decided at a meeting of Hywel Dda University Health Board on Wednesday (May 28) at Yr Egin in Carmarthen. With local anger growing and new questions emerging from the FOI disclosure, pressure is mounting on board members to reconsider the proposal.

Campaigners say the case now hinges on a simple question: whether enough was done to save the surgery before moving to close it.

Paul Sartori receives generous support from the James Tudor Foundation

paul Sartori hospice at home is celebrating a major support package from The James Tudor Foundation thanks to an unrestricted grant to help fund the charity’s vital end-oflife care services throughout the county.

The £46,364 grant award ill be paid over three years.

Commenting on the windfall, the new Chief Executive Officer, Laura Hugman, said, “At a time where funding and funding partnerships are challenging, we’re very grateful to The James Tudor Foundation in helping us achieve our aims and passion for supporting and bringing reassurance to the local families who need us.”

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home provides an holistic approach to end-of-life care, which encompasses home nursing, equipment loan, complementary therapies, bereavement and counselling support, physiotherapy, future care planning, and training. The team provides thousands of hours of day and night respite care each year, ensuring that patients can receive the support they need, complementing the statutory

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

provision within the comfort of their own homes.

Judith Williams, Grant Development

Officer at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, expressed the charity’s gratitude: “We’re incredibly thankful to The James Tudor Foundation for their continued generosity. Their support helps us maintain our nursing service, which is a lifeline for many families

facing end-of-life care challenges.”

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home offers a comprehensive range of services to individuals with life-limiting illnesses, ensuring they can be cared for at home with dignity, independence, and comfort.

All-women battle to be Pembrokeshire’s next leader

p EMBR o KES hi RE

council leader c llr Jon h arvey, who announced he is to step down and not seek re-election, has backed c abinet member c llr Tessa h odgson as his successor.

Pembroke St Mary North member Cllr Harvey became leader in May 2024 after narrowly beating fellow leadership hopeful Conservative group leader Di Clements by 30 votes to 27.

Cllr Harvey replaced Cllr David Simpson as leader.

Following his decision to step down, Cllr Harvey said:

“It has been a fantastic two years, a real honour and privilege to lead the council, working with a talented and committed cabinet.

“After much thought and reflection, I feel now is the right time to make way for someone else to lead the council through the next 12 months to the local government elections in May

2027.”

With Cllr Harvey not remaining as leader, three nominations have been received for the all-women leadership battle at the May 15 AGM: Conservative Group Leader Cllr Di Clements, unaffiliated member and current Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care Cllr Tessa Hodgson, and Leader of the Independent Group Cllr Anji Tinley.

Cllr Harvey has backed Cllr Hodgson for the top job.He said: “We are living through turbulent times, and following the Senedd election next week, we will almost certainly have a new government in Cardiff, and we need leadership and a cabinet in Pembrokeshire, that has experience and is able to build on the great work already in progress, and that is why I will be 100 per cent supporting Tessa in her bid to become the next Leader.”

Cllr Hodgson was first elected in 2012 as the member for Lamphey and is currently the cabinet member for adult social care and safeguarding.

Cllr Hodgson said: “I was sad to hear that Jon had decided not to seek reelection – he has much to be proud of and it has been great to serve in his cabinet and to work alongside him with such a dedicated team of cabinet colleagues.

“Should I be successful in my bid to be leader, I would look to build on the successes of the last nine years and use my experience, energy and ideas to lead the council through the next 12 months and to work collaboratively with all members in the best interests of Pembrokeshire.”

Fellow hopeful for the leader role, Cllr Clements gave her reasons why she should lead: “My Conservative Group are laser-focussed

on making sure the people of Pembrokeshire get value for their money, delivering good statutory services and tackling the failure of leadership on education seen in Pembrokeshire.

“People I talk to are concerned about making ends meet and are worried that our local economy is stagnating.

“In these particularly challenging times, we need to make sure that our council tax is as low as practicably possible so they have more money in their pockets and prove to them that the council can spend their hardearned money more wisely on services that really matter to the residents whom we serve.

“Resident’s priorities are our priorities.”

Cllr Tinley has been contacted for a statement.

When Cllr Harvey’s decision became public, former leader of the Independent Group on Pembrokeshire County Council Cllr Huw Murphy, in a statement, claimed Cllr Havery has been removed in a “coup”.

Cllr Harvey has denied any ‘coup’ taking place, saying: “Honestly, I had to laugh at this statement by Cllr Murphy. I’ve enjoyed my time as Leader immensely and I am proud of my record, but I have done a full leadership term.

“The decision to stand down and not seek re-election was mine and mine alone and I’m looking forward to supporting Cllr Tessa Hodgson at the AGM.”

Davies and Kurtz call for free parking extension to support town centres

WELSh conservative Senedd candidates paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz have called for free parking periods to be extended in town centres across west Wales, saying the move would help support local businesses and increase footfall.

The call follows concerns from retailers and hospitality businesses, particularly in Cardigan, where new parking charges introduced by Plaid Cymru-run Ceredigion County Council now stand at £4 for a two-hour visit.

Businesses say the charges are discouraging people from visiting high streets at a time when many firms are already facing serious financial pressures.

Mr Davies and Mr Kurtz said extending free parking periods, especially during peak trading times, weekends and holidays, would give town centres a much-needed boost and help them compete with out-oftown retail parks and online shopping.

Mr Davies said: “Our town centres are the heart of our communities, but they are under real pressure. One of the most common issues raised with me by local businesses is parking.

“If it is difficult or expensive

business rates.

“The revaluation is hitting at a time when firms are already dealing with rising costs and economic uncertainty. For many high street businesses, this is another significant burden.

“Businesses are facing a perfect storm with higher energy costs, staffing pressures, and now business rates increases. That is why practical measures like extending free parking are so important. They can help drive footfall and give businesses a fighting chance.”

Mr Davies and Mr Kurtz said the Welsh Conservatives would reform the business rates system to make it fairer and more responsive.

They said proposals would include more frequent revaluations, targeted relief for high street sectors such as retail and hospitality, and transitional support for firms facing sharp increases.

BLUE VIEW

With Brian Murphy

As i write this, we are into the last push for votes in the Senedd election. however, the polls will have closed by the time it is published, and some results may have been declared by the time you are reading it.

candidate, you can only vote for a party.

to park, people simply choose to go elsewhere.

“Free parking is a straightforward way to increase footfall and support local traders. We have seen in many areas that when parking is made easier and more accessible, more people come into town, spend money, and support local jobs.”

The call comes amid growing concern about the impact of the latest business rates revaluation, which is now beginning to affect businesses.

Mr Davies and Mr Kurtz recently hosted an online business rates roundtable with the Valuation Office Agency and industry representatives, attended by more than 150 businesses from across the region.

They said concerns were raised about rising bills and uncertainty facing small firms.

The pair also said they had successfully lobbied the Welsh Government to introduce greater relief for the hospitality industry, following research across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion which showed the sector had been heavily affected by the revaluation process.

Mr Kurtz said: “What we heard loud and clear from over 150 businesses is just how concerned they are about

They also said the party would oppose additional costs on businesses, including a tourism tax, while supporting measures to boost town centre trade.

Mr Davies added: “This is about making our town centres more welcoming and accessible at a time when businesses need support the most.

“Extending free parking, even for a few hours a day or during key periods like weekends and holidays, can make a real difference.

“We want to see thriving, vibrant town centres across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. But that will not happen if businesses are being squeezed from all sides. We need to listen to what they are telling us and act.”

The candidates are urging local authorities to work with businesses to explore flexible parking options, including extended free periods, seasonal initiatives, and targeted support during key trading times.

Mr Kurtz added: “Our message is clear: back our town centres, back our local businesses, and take practical steps to ease the pressure.

“If we want to keep our high streets alive, we need to act now. Extending free parking and addressing business rates concerns are both part of the solution.”

What I have learned from this campaign is that the D’Hondt system is understood by nobody, including the political geeks. I am still waiting for a definitive answer on what happens when a vacancy occurs due to the resignation or death of a sitting member. With the closed list system, it automatically goes to the next person on the list, without the need for a byelection. That is fine when there are no defections or changes within the list. If the next person on the list has defected to another party since the election, do they still take up the vacancy, or does it go the next one down? I’m still waiting for an answer and the Senedd website does not give the answer. There are many other situations which are entirely possible where there is no definitive answer on how the vacancy will be filled. This is an example of how poorly thought out the system is. It also removes the link between the electorate and the elected. No longer can you vote for a person, unless that are an independent

The feedback I’ve been getting as the campaign has progressed is that the changes are unwanted and too expensive. It will cost £120m to have another 36 Senedd members, and I am yet to find an elector who thinks it is a good use of their money.

People don’t more wasted funding on vanity projects and are looking for policies which boosts the economy. That is the only way we can create revenue to do the other things, such as supporting the NHS and improving educational standards. Trying to tax your way to prosperity does not work. These are Conservative values.

As the D’Hondt system is unlikely to produce an absolute majority for any party there will need to be some sort of cooperation or coalition agreement made. Darren Millar has been absolutely clear that he is willing to work with any party who will promote our values and implement our policies. That is what we mean when we say, “vote Conservative, get Conservative”.

It will be interesting to see the results and the make up of the Senedd. I hope that the turnout by the electorate will be better than in previous elections. Sadly, I think I will be disappointed.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

When this edition embrokeshire herald hits your email inbox, voters across Wales, Scotland and many English councils will have voted the previous day, and results are expected to produce change and surprises.

Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey is calling for a dedicated investigation into political interference by the Trump administration, as he warns that Nigel Farage and Reform UK are “a franchise of Trump’s MAGA politics”.

The Liberal Democrat leader has also outlined a package of measures aimed at protecting British democracy, which the party will pursue through amendments to the Representation of the People Bill. This package includes:

• Banning payments from X and other social media platforms to politicians in the UK, including MPs.

• Prohibiting anyone who has served a foreign administration from donating to UK political parties, think tanks, or campaign groups.

• Banning foreign funded online political adverts altogether.

In a recent poll, conducted by Savanta, over half (58%) of UK adults said that Nigel Farage and other MPs who have received payments linked to their activity on X, should return this money – including one in three (31%) 2024 Reform voters. Since December 2024, Nigel Farage, Richard Tice, Lee Anderson and Rupert Lowe have taken £56,400 from Elon Musk via his American company X.

Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey MP said:

“British democracy is under more serious threat than at any point in my

lifetime. It’s under threat from powerful men outside our country who are trying to destroy it – Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Vladimir Putin. And there are dangerous forces inside our politics who are aiding and abetting that destruction.

“Nigel Farage and Reform UK are not a British political movement, they are a franchise of MAGA politics, trying to import Trump’s divisive agenda into our communities. These are not the people we want running our councils.

“Trying to turn our great country into an outpost of Trump’s MAGA empire. What a bleak vision that is for our United Kingdom.

“But it’s clear that Trump and his team want to try the same thing here, with Nigel Farage as their man.

“And Farage gave the game away recently didn’t he – calling Trump “the boss at Mar-a-Lago”.

“We cannot let Reform’s toxic Trumpian politics poison our communities. We must defend Britain’s democracy now, or risk losing it forever.” I have written in earlier Positively Liberal articles that King Charles III and Queen Camilla should not have gone on the State Visit to the USA. I still think that he shouldn’t have. However, the speeches by the King to the US Congress and at the State Banquet were probably the best speeches I have heard from a British monarch in decades.

Those speeches will go down in history for the message it sends to US lawmakers, the President and the people.

British democracy has endured for centuries because each generation has been willing to defend it.

Liberal Democrats will defend it now and call out those who threaten i.

We will not be intimidated by tech billionaires, Russian bots, or Donald Trump

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Farage mocked over ‘London elections’ advert

REFoRM uK leader Nigel Farage has been criticised after a campaign advert urging people to vote in the “London elections” appeared in a Welsh newspaper read by voters in powys.

Critics say advert shows Reform’s campaign is focused on London, not Wales

The two-page party political advert was published in the Powys County Times on Friday (May 1), just days before voters in Wales go to the polls in the Senedd election on Thursday (May 7).

The advert included a letter from Mr Farage in which he attacked London Mayor Sadiq Khan and claimed the capital had become “lawless” and “unrecognisable” under Labour.

But the message appeared to have been aimed at London voters, not those in Powys.

In the letter, Mr Farage wrote: “If you want to get rid of Keir Starmer and change the direction of this country, there is one way to do it: Vote Reform in the London elections on May 7th.”

He added: “London needs Reform. It is one of the world’s great capitals. Yet these days Sadiq Khan’s London often feels

lawless and unrecognisable to Londoners who can no longer afford to live in their own city.”

The advert has since been seized on by rival parties, who say it raises questions about Reform UK’s focus on Wales during the Senedd campaign.

A Welsh Labour source said: “For Wales, see London. Reform UK’s focus isn’t on Wales, it’s on getting Farage into Number 10.

“They don’t even care enough to place the right advert in the right country. It’s all about promoting Farage as their front man and fooling voters into thinking they’ve got more than slogans.”

Voters in Wales will elect Members of the Senedd on Thursday, while a number of local council and mayoral elections are also taking place in England.

In London, all 32 boroughs are holding elections, with more than 1,800 councillors due to be elected.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats also criticised the advert.

Glyn Preston, the party’s lead candidate for Gwynedd Maldwyn, said: “Reform can’t even get the right election

on their own leaflets. It says everything about how little they understand or care about Wales or Powys, and raises serious questions about their ability to run the country.

“While they’re busy talking about Sadiq Khan and London, the Liberal Democrats are focused on the issues that actually matter to people here in Powys — long NHS waiting times, rural communities, and securing a fair deal on investment from Cardiff Bay.

“Powys deserves representatives who are rooted in the communities they serve, who know and understand local challenges, not yes-men taking their lead from Nigel Farage in London in his latest quest for power.”

Reform UK has been running newspaper adverts across Wales in the run-up to the Senedd election.

The party has been polling strongly, with surveys suggesting it could make major gains under the new voting system.

Reform UK has not yet commented publicly on why a London-focused advert appeared in a Powys newspaper.

Calls to reopen access to top of Pembrokeshire’s Hean Castle

cALLS for permission to replace a decayed spiral staircase preventing access to the top of pembrokeshire’s historic hean castle mansion have been submitted.

In a listed building application submitted to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, The Trustees of T O Lewis Trust, through agent Acanthus Holden Architects, seeks permission for the removal of a decayed timber spiral staircase and replacement in aluminium, along with pointing and masonry repairs to a flue turret, stairs turret and s bay at the Grade-II-listed Hean Castle, near Saundersfoot.

A supporting statement accompanying the application says the works planned will reinstate the spiral stairs access to the main castle tower, the scheme “aimed at reducing moisture ingress through the thin, walled turrets a replacing a rotten timber spiral staircase 13m tall”.

It says the upper third of the wooden treads in the “existing and very possibly the original spiral staircase” are “now badly decayed where they slot into the equally rotten stringers at this level, to the point that safe access to the turret top is no longer safe”.

It adds: “The replacement of the stairs in timber is a difficult and a very costly exercise with all fabrication and erection carried out likely to have been carried out originally on site.

Accessing the turret at high level on the outside is also very difficult and only limited repointing will be possible.

“Ongoing water ingress into the turret would likely lead to further rotting of the replacement timber stairs in the near future.

“Two options have been considered for the replacement of the stairs in metal: Aluminium and Galvanised steel, both with similar cost implications.

“Aluminium is favoured and an acceptable quote has been received for the supply of a sectional staircase with ‘made to measure’ hard wood timber treads bolted to the Newell

brackets. The made-to-measure treads will allow us a degree of flexibility with regard to any variance in the diameter of the ‘tube’.”

It says the proposed works will secure long-term sustainability, improve accessibility, and address urgent fabric defects.

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

Plaid Cymru councillor suspended over migration comments

A LoNg-SERViNg gwynedd councillor has been suspended by plaid cymru after comments linking migration, housing pressure and the Welsh language.

Cllr Gareth Roberts, who represents Bangor’s Dewi ward, made the remarks during a planning committee debate on an application for 25 homes in Chwilog, on the Llŷn Peninsula.

couNciLLoR RAiSED coNcERNS

The committee voted to reject the scheme against officers’ advice after concerns were raised about its possible impact on community cohesion and the Welsh language.

During the meeting, Cllr Roberts said Bangor was “no longer a Welsh-speaking area” and claimed he had seen the city’s Welsh-speaking population decline.

He said: “Certainly, within the last five years, I’ve seen hundreds if not 1,000 more people coming here to live, migrants.”

He also referred to pressure on schools, saying he had been told there

were 42 different languages being spoken at his former primary school.

Cllr Roberts argued that housing shortages in Bangor could push demand into surrounding Welsh-speaking communities, including Chwilog.

pARTY iNVESTigATioN

Plaid Cymru has confirmed that Cllr Roberts’ party membership has been temporarily suspended following a formal complaint.

A party spokesperson said the suspension was a “neutral action” while an investigation is carried out.

Cllr Roberts has also resigned from Plaid Cymru’s group on Cyngor Gwynedd and is now listed as an individual member.

Speaking to BBC Wales, he insisted he was not opposed to migration and said Bangor had always been multicultural.

He said his comments were about housing, integration and the need to help people learn Welsh, rather than criticism of those who had moved to the area.

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAvEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

& no T ices

THE ELECTION

DEAR SiR,

This week, Wales had a chance to speak.

Voting is not just a right. It is one of the few moments when every person has the same say at the ballot box.

Too many people say politics has nothing to do with them. I understand why. People are tired of promises, tired of arguments, and tired of politicians who seem distant from real life. But staying at home does not fix that. It only leaves the decision to others.

The Senedd election matters because the people chosen will make decisions about our NHS, schools, roads, housing, transport and the future of our

communities.

If people want better services, safer streets, stronger local jobs and a fairer deal for our towns, then voting is the first step.

Many generations before us fought hard for the right to vote. We should not treat that right lightly.

You do not have to love any party. You do not have to agree with every candidate. But look at what is on offer, make your choice, and use your vote.

And to put it bluntly: if you do not vote, do not moan afterwards.

Democracy only works when people take part. Today is not a day for sitting back and complaining later. It is a day to have your say.

Whatever your politics, vote.

John Lee Milford haven

ONGOING PROBLEMS AT THE SILVERDALE

DEAR SiR,

i was deeply disturbed to read about the latest serious incident at Silverdale Lodge involving armed police, allegations of racial abuse, threats, criminal damage and a man barricading himself inside a room.

What makes this even more alarming is that this is clearly not an isolated incident.

People in Johnston have been raising concerns about Silverdale for years, and many local residents now feel they were ignored, dismissed or branded as heartless whenever they dared to speak out.

Back in 2020, your newspaper reported that villagers were already describing themselves as “frightened for their lives” after repeated police incidents at the

lodge. Residents complained about anti-social behaviour, intimidation, drunken disorder, threats and suspected drugrelated activity linked to some occupants.

At the time, over 500 people signed a petition raising concerns about the situation. Local people said they were avoiding cycle paths and beauty spots because they no longer felt safe. Police emails obtained by the media even confirmed that action had been taken against certain individuals and that some had been banned from the site.

Then in 2021 there was another major police response after threats to kill were allegedly made at the lodge.

Now, in 2026, we have armed officers attending once again after allegations of racial abuse and aggressive behaviour.

At what point do the authorities finally admit there is a serious ongoing problem?

Let me be absolutely clear. Most people in Pembrokeshire have sympathy for genuinely vulnerable people who are homeless or struggling. Nobody wants to see people abandoned or left on th

But there is a world of difference between helping vulnerable people and allowing communities to repeatedly suffer intimidation, fear and disorder.

Ordinary working people in Johnston should not have to accept armed police operations, threats, abuse and repeated anti-social behaviour as some sort of “new normal.” Staff working at these facilities also deserve protection and should never have to endure racial abuse or fear violence while simply doing their jobs.

The real frustration is that every time concerns are raised, officials seem more interested in managing public relations than confronting the underlying issue honestly.

Communities can only absorb so much before confidence in local authorities completely collapses.

Perhaps it is finally time for Pembrokeshire County Council, housing agencies, police and Welsh Government officials to stop pretending these are isolated incidents and start being honest with the public about whether Silverdale Lodge is actually suitable for this kind of accommodation at all.

Barry Ellis pembrokeshire

death notices

PAMELA M ARy G ODFRE y

pASSED away peacefully on Wednesday, 15th April 2026. She will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

A celebration of Pamela’s life will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Wednesday, 13th May at 12.15pm. If desired, donations in memory of Pamela will be gratefully received in lieu of flowers for the ‘Paul Sartori Foundation’ via the link below.

(Cheques payable to ‘Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd’ can be sent to John Roberts & Son Funeral Directors, 51 Bush Street, Pembroke Dock) pamela-godfrey. muchloved.com

J ILL B RONWEN S IMPSON

Jill will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

The funeral takes place on Monday 11th May at 2 p.m. at Keeston Natural Burial Ground, Keeston, Haverfordwest, SA62 6EE

A reception at the Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth will follow from 4 p.m.

what3words: ///tells.overdrive. normal

Family flowers only with donations in memory of Jill made payable to either Doctors of the World or The Cleddau Project c/o Funeral Directors Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR or via www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

G ILLIAN A NN H ARRIES

pEA c EF u LLY at Withybush h ospital on Monday 20th April

Mrs. Gillian Ann Harries, aged 86 years of Station Approach, Narberth.

Beloved Wife of the late Alan. Much loved Mother to Paul and Owain, Mother-in-law, Grandma, great grandmother, Sister-in-law and Aunt.

The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 13th May 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1:00pm.

iT is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden, unexpected but peaceful death of Jill Simpson at her home in Narberth.

A request has been made that black be avoided, please wear colours and preference being blue.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for Paul Sartori Hospice at Home and The Wednesday Club (Dementia Supportive Community)

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

Please kindly make cheques payable to E.C. Thomas & Son.

G ARETH AND A NNE H UGHES

Fo LL o W i N g family funerals, the Joint interment of g areth and Anne will take place in St. Mary’s c hurchyard, Newport on Thursday 28th May at 10:30 am, followed by an informal reception and light buffet at The Llwyngwair Arms, East Street, Newport.

All wishing to pay their respects will be welcome, but please respond to chughes5508@ hotmail.com if you are planning to attend to give an idea of numbers.

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WINDOWS

Fresh Hamilton wage claims raise new questions for Haverfordwest County fans

Scottish reports of late and short wages add a new and more immediate concern for Bluebirds supporters already watching problems elsewhere in the same football network

REpoRTS in Scotland that hamilton Academical players were paid late, with some allegedly underpaid ahead of the club’s final game of the season, have added to scrutiny around the football network linked to haverfordwest county AFc chairman Rob Edwards.

The latest claims were reported by Lanarkshire Live Sport and the Daily Record.

The relevance for Pembrokeshire lies in the links between Hamilton and Haverfordwest through Rob Edwards and Morley Sports Management.

Hamilton has previously stated

young

that Morley Sports Management owns 100 per cent of 1874 Holdings Limited, and that 1874 Holdings in turn owns 97.5 per cent of Hamilton Academical FC. Haverfordwest County has previously said Morley Sports Management has been the business vehicle behind Edwards’ takeover and funding of the Bluebirds since 2020.

Earlier this month, Haverfordwest County A.F.C. Ltd faced an HM Revenue & Customs winding-up petition at the High Court in London. The case was dismissed on April 15, but only after reaching a live hearing at the Rolls Building, with costs ordered

against the company.

Separately, 1874 Holdings has faced a winding-up petition in Scotland. Hamilton later issued a statement acknowledging that petition, while saying the claim is disputed and that the company is seeking dismissal.

The latest Scottish wage claims come against a background of previous disciplinary action involving Hamilton. Earlier this year, the club was punished over failures to pay players on time and in full, resulting in a points deduction following an independent disciplinary process. Hamilton acknowledged that outcome in a club statement.

Companies House has also shown 1874 Holdings with overdue accounts and a strikeoff notice. Those are separate processes from a winding-up petition, but they add to the list of recent off-field issues involving companies in the same football network.

There are also operational links between the two clubs. Haverfordwest publicly credited chief executive Beccy Nuttall with key work during the club’s licensing process earlier this month, while Hamilton has also announced Rebecca Nuttall in a senior role there.

The timing of the Haverfordwest case also drew attention because the club announced on April 8 that it had secured both its UEFA licence and FAW Tier 1 licence for the 2026-27 season, even though the HMRC petition remained live at that stage and was not disposed of until April 15.

The Herald contacted the Football Association of Wales for comment on the licensing position last week, but had received no response at the time of publication.

The Hamilton wage claims remain reports from Scotland, and there is no suggestion that Haverfordwest County AFC is facing the same issue. However, the developments are likely to be of interest to Bluebirds supporters because they concern companies and senior figures linked to the same wider football operation.

Crymych players step up to senior stage

cRYMYch RugBY cLuB has hailed the contribution of five of its youth players after they stepped up to feature in a senior side at championship level.

The young players, who remain part of the club’s youth setup, were given the opportunity to test themselves in a higherlevel fixture, and impressed coaches and supporters alike with their attitude and commitment on the field.

Club representatives said it was “fantastic to see” the dedication shown by the youngsters, who rose to the occasion in what was described

as a special experience for both the players and the club.

The match provided a valuable opportunity for development, allowing the next generation of Crymych players to gain experience in a more competitive environment while contributing to the senior squad.

The rugby club said the move reflects its long-term focus on nurturing homegrown talent and creating a clear pathway from youth rugby into the senior game.

Officials added that the future of the club looks bright, with the performance of the young “Teirw” – or Bulls – offering reassurance

that the next generation is ready to carry the club forward. The club congratulated the players on their achievement and

said it hopes to see more youth players progressing through the ranks in the coming seasons.

Amman United end season with narrow win at Cardigan

AMMAN united rounded off a difficult Division 3 West campaign with a hard-fought 22-21 victory away at cardigan.

After a season marked by long journeys, disappointing defeats, cancellations and several late abandoned fixtures, the Reds finished on a positive note in Aberteifi.

It was United’s third match in a hectic six-day spell, all away from home. After valiant defeats against high-flying New Dock Stars and Tumble, Amman showed character to claim a narrow but deserved final-day win.

The late-season improvement has been helped by the introduction of several players from Amman’s victorious Youth side, who recently lifted the National Welsh Youth Cup at the Principality Stadium for the first time in the club’s history.

Ceian Lewis, Harvey Duncan, Tom James, Dyfan Llewelyn, Cole Lacey, Ioan Booth, Aled Davies and Hefin Davies all started at Cardigan, bringing fresh energy and renewed spirit to the side. The match also marked the end of the road for several long-serving stalwarts who have helped carry the team through some difficult recent seasons.

Cardigan made the stronger start, opening the scoring with an early converted try. Amman responded well, drawing level before taking a 14-7 lead through tries from centre Dylan Lloyd and scrumhalf Lee Evans, both converted by

captain and outside-half Iestyn Griffiths. The home side hit back with a second try, but Lloyd crossed again for his second of the afternoon. A Griffiths penalty then stretched Amman’s advantage to 22-12.

Cardigan rallied late on, but United held firm to secure a welcome win and bring their campaign to a close on a high.

Joe Allen to leave Swansea coaching role after final game

NARBERTh’S Joe Allen left his role on Swansea city’s coaching staff after Saturday’s final game of the season against charlton Athletic.

The Pembrokeshire-born former Wales midfielder, 36, returned to the Swans’ backroom team in November alongside fellow club favourite Leon Britton to support head coach Vitor Matos.

The move was always expected to be short-term, with Allen stepping in after Matos was initially unable to bring in some of his staff from previous club Maritimo due to work permit issues.

Allen, who came through Swansea’s academy, retired as a player last May after his second spell with the club.

He first made his name at Swansea, helping the club win promotion to the Premier League in 2011 before moving to Liverpool. He later spent six years with Stoke City before returning to the Swans in 2022.

Allen also won 77 caps for Wales and was a key figure in the national side’s most successful modern era, including the run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

His departure from Swansea’s coaching set-up will come alongside

Haverfordwest County miss out on Europe after play-off final defeat

hAVERFoRDWEST couNTY’S hopes of another European adventure were ended on Saturday (May 2) as penybont claimed a 2-0 victory in the JD cymru premier European play-off final.

The Bluebirds travelled to the DragonBet Stadium in Bridgend looking to secure a place in next season’s UEFA Conference League qualifiers, but it was the home side who struck first.

Chris Venables put Penybont ahead inside the opening ten minutes, giving the hosts early control of the contest.

Haverfordwest, who had reached the final after beating Barry Town United on penalties, were unable to find a way back before the interval.

The decisive second goal arrived in the second half when Mael Davies made it 2-0 on 63 minutes.

That proved enough to settle the final, with Penybont seeing out the closing stages to secure European qualification for the third time in four seasons.

For Haverfordwest, the defeat brought an end to what the club described as a “long, rollercoaster ride of a season”.

After the final whistle, Haverfordwest County manager Tony Pennock admitted his side had not performed at the level required.

He said: “It’s probably our most poor performance since the start of the season, really.

“But we knew it was going to be tough. Penybont are a fairly good side. Congratulations to them — third European qualification in four years, so they’ve been consistent and they’re there or thereabouts all the time. You’ve got to give them credit first and foremost.”

Pennock also questioned the opening goal, suggesting Haverfordwest felt there had been an offside in the build-up.

He said: “We just didn’t get going today. I thought we started okay and then, I don’t want to go on about decisions, but the goal is offside.

“I can’t understand why the linesman can’t see it. But we didn’t really threaten.

“We huffed and puffed but just couldn’t get into the game.”

Despite the disappointment, Pennock praised his players for the way they recovered from a difficult start to the campaign.

He said: “I can’t fault them. I keep saying we were bottom of the league in October. Loads of people wrote us off this year.

“We lost players in the summer and all I heard was, ‘you didn’t replace him, you never replaced him’, but we’ve got to a play-off final — third final in four years.

“So we haven’t done too much wrong, really, to get where we are.”

Pennock said the players would learn from the defeat, adding that the club is already preparing for next season.

He said: “There’s always a winner and there’s always a loser. Unfortunately, we’ve come out on the other side today.

“We’ll have a break now in the summer. I’ve been busy recruiting for the last three months, really, with us going hybrid next season, which is exciting times for the club.

“It would have been nice to start the summer off with a European trip, but it’s not to be.

“There are a lot of boys in that room who will be with us next season, and as well as you learn from the experience of winning, you learn from losing as well.

“It’s not a taste that we want to repeat, and we want to give a better account of ourselves in the league next season.”

Pennock also welcomed changes to the Cymru Premier, with the league moving to a 16-team format.

He said: “I’m looking forward to some new clubs. It’s going to be a change and a refreshing change. I think it needed it.

“It will be nice just to play each other twice instead of probably four or five times.

“It has been a long season, and we just look forward to coming back and having another crack next year.”

Posting after the final whistle, Haverfordwest County AFC said: “It’s not to be for the Bluebirds in the playoff final.

“Thank you for your fantastic support today and throughout what has been another long, rollercoaster ride of a season, and we look forward to doing it all again in a few months time.”

The result means Penybont will take Wales’ final European place, while Haverfordwest must now regroup ahead of the new campaign.

Thomas c arroll Pembrokeshire league Table

Carew set early pace as rain disrupts cricket programme

RAiN played a major part in Week 2 of the Nicholas insurance Thomas carroll pembroke county cricket League, with several Division 1 fixtures abandoned after strong first-innings performances.

Carew made the biggest statement in the top flight, cruising to a ten-wicket win over St Ishmaels to move clear at the top of the table.

St Ishmaels were bowled out for 110, with Tim Hicks (318), Shaun Whitfield (3-14) and Logan Hall (2-27) doing the damage. Carew then eased to 111-0, Hicks completing an outstanding all-round display with 55 not out, alongside Morgan Grieve’s unbeaten 54.

Elsewhere, Narberth piled up 301-7 before rain intervened against Herbrandston, Jamie McCormack hitting a superb 104. Lawrenny (297-7) and Burton (203-7) also posted big totals before the weather had the final say.

JohNSToN LEAD

STRoNg DiViSioN 2 pAcK

Johnston sit top after a dominant 135-run win over Llangwm, powered by Lewis Boswell’s 99 and Steve Mills’ 62. Hook maintained their perfect start, edging Haverfordwest by four wickets, while Cresselly II brushed

aside Llechryd by nine wickets after bowling them out for just 41.

KiLgETTY AND cAREW ii LEAD

DiViSioN 3 RAcE

Kilgetty and Carew II are locked together at the top after two wins from two.

Lamphey produced one of the standout performances of the week, hammering Burton II by 155 runs, while Laugharne continued their unbeaten start.

NARBERTh ii LEAD

DiViSioN 4

Narberth II sit top after a five-wicket win over Neyland II, thanks to Jordan Howell’s unbeaten 88. Hook II edged a thriller by one wicket, while Haverfordwest III also maintained a perfect start.

RoWLANDS

ToN hEADLiNES

DiViSioN 5

Tom Rowlands’ superb 108 guided Cresselly III to victory, while Llanrhian II remain joint top after a crushing win featuring Rick Walton’s remarkable 8-13.

LAMphEY ii Top

DiViSioN 6

Lamphey II lead the way after edging a tight contest against Haverfordwest IV, while Whitland III produced a dominant win over Neyland III.

Haverfordwest County miss out on Europe after play-off final defeat p78