The Pembrokeshire Herald 09/01/2026

Judge halts Tenby baby death trial

Defence argues defendant was not driving — prosecution to consider appeal

THE TRIAL of a man accused of causing the death of six-month-old Sophia Kelemen in a multi-storey car park crash in Tenby was effectively stopped on Thursday morning after a judge accepted a defence submission that the defendant was not “driving” the vehicle at the time of the collision.

The court was told that the defence application — known as a “no case to answer” submission — was allowed by Her Honour Judge Catherine Richards at about 10.30am, concluding that the prosecution had not established sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to the jury on that basis. The prosecution then asked for an adjournment to consider whether it will appeal the ruling, and the case has been adjourned until 10.30am Friday, when the prosecution is expected to inform the court of its position.

The charges stem from a tragic incident on January 2, 2025, when baby Sophia was injured in a collision involving a grey Nissan Qashqai in a car park on Upper Park Road in Tenby, Pembrokeshire. She was on holiday with her family from Greater Manchester when the collision happened. The infant was taken to hospital but died from her injuries the following day.

Flaviu Naghi, 34, formerly of Leigh in Greater Manchester and now of Rondini Avenue, Luton, Bedfordshire, has consistently denied two offences: causing death by dangerous driving, and causing death by careless driving while unfit through drugs — specifically while under the influence of the cocaine

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

metabolite benzoylecgonine.

EARLIER pRocEEdIngS And bAcKgRound

The trial began this week at Swansea Crown Court, where on Tuesday (Jan 6) a jury was sworn in and, in the same hearing, the defence immediately applied for the trial to be stopped. After

the jury was sworn and sent out of court, legal argument took place before Judge Richards on whether the case should continue.

The defence’s argument was that Naghi’s involvement with the vehicle was limited to turning the ignition key, and that he did not release the handbrake, intended to move the car or physically control it when it moved. The defence argued that starting an engine alone cannot legally constitute “driving”.

The prosecution, led by Tom Crowther KC, had maintained that the

defendant’s actions should be seen as a continuum of conduct, from using a driver’s control through to the vehicle’s movement and the subsequent collision. Before trial started, it was reported that Naghi had first appeared at Swansea Crown Court in early January 2026, confirmed his identity and was released on bail after the case was adjourned ahead of jury selection.

THE TRAgEdy ITSELf

Police and hospital sources previously confirmed that the collision occurred on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park at around 4pm on January 2, 2025. A grey Nissan Qashqai was involved, and Sophia was critically injured before dying the next day in hospital from an intracranial haemorrhage caused by the collision. At the time of the incident police said it was being investigated as a tragic and live incident, and that the family was being supported by specially trained officers.

With the judge having accepted the defence’s legal challenge, the prosecution has been given an opportunity to consider whether to pursue an appeal against the judge’s decision. The case will return to court on Friday at 10.30am, when the prosecution’s intentions are expected to be made clear.

The Herald and other outlets will continue to cover developments.

Boyfriend torched partner’s clothes after drunken row

A young man who set fire to his girlfriend’s clothes following a drunken argument was told by a judge to “grow up” after admitting arson.

Callum Rees, aged 20, had been living with his partner of four months at an address in Johnston when the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday (June 16).

Prosecutor Brian Simpson told Swansea Crown Court that Rees returned home shortly after midnight after drinking with friends. An argument quickly developed between the couple, prompting his partner to leave the property to allow tensions to ease.

When she later returned, the house was filled with smoke.

Mr Simpson said Rees had gathered a pile of his partner’s clothes inside the property and deliberately set them alight.

Police were called at around 1.20am. As officers attended the scene, they spotted Rees walking nearby and arrested him.

During interview, Rees told officers he had started the fire after an argument in which his partner refused to return his passport and wallet. He claimed he extinguished the flames himself after realising the seriousness of what he had done.

Rees, of St Peters Road, Johnston, pleaded guilty to arson.

Defence barrister Jon Tarrant said his client was of previous

good character and had no prior convictions.

“Although a fire was started, it was small in scale and the defendant stamped it out almost immediately,” he said.

Sentencing Rees, Paul Thomas KC was highly critical of his behaviour. “He’s 20 years old but acting like a 14-year-old,” the judge remarked.

Addressing Rees directly, Judge Thomas added: “What you did was spiteful, foolish, and potentially very dangerous. You are fortunate that your former partner no longer supports this prosecution.”

Fined after driving offences as bail matters withdrawn

A MILfoRd HAVEn man has been fined after admitting driving offences, while two separate bailrelated charges were withdrawn by prosecutors.

Daniel Booth, aged 34, of Priory Road, Milford Haven, appeared before

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jan 5).

The court heard that Booth, the proprietor of The Vibe, pleaded guilty to driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence on Tuesday (Dec 6), as well as using

a motor vehicle on a road without insurance on the same date.

Magistrates imposed a fine of £230 and ordered Booth to pay prosecution costs to the Crown Prosecution Service. The offences were endorsed on his driving record, with the court taking his guilty plea into account when sentencing.

Two further matters, both dated Monday (Dec 23), were also before the court. These related to failing to answer police or court bail as soon as reasonably practicable, and failing to surrender to bail at the appointed time. Both bail offences were withdrawn by the prosecution, and no evidence was offered in relation to those charges. No separate penalty was imposed in respect of the withdrawn matters.

Petition launched after second blood biker dies in line of duty

A pETITIon calling for blood bikers to be allowed to use green emergency lights has been launched following the death of a second pembrokeshire volunteer rider within six months.

Volunteer blood biker Andrew Rogers, aged 61, from Hayscastle, died following a collision on the A48 on Monday (Dec 29) while carrying out his duties.

Mr Rogers was volunteering at the time of the incident. In a tribute, his family described him as “well known, loved, respected and extremely knowledgeable”.

They said he was deeply passionate about his role as a blood biker, as well as his work helping others through volunteering and as a street pastor.

His death comes just six months after another Pembrokeshire blood biker was killed while on duty.

On Tuesday (July 2, 2025), Timothy Minett, known as Tim, aged 78, died following a crash on the A478 between Glandy Cross and Blaenffos while riding for Blood Bikes Wales.

In October, more than one hundred blood bikers from across the UK took part in a memorial ride to honour Mr Minett.

Lesley Isaacs-Penny, vice-chair of Blood Bikes Wales, said: “It was very touching. Tim’s family were there — they couldn’t believe how many people had come and were really grateful.”

Blood Bikes Wales is one of thirty-six volunteer-run blood bike groups across the UK, providing a free, life-saving service to the NHS by transporting blood, organs, medication, and other urgent medical supplies.

Following the latest tragedy, fellow blood biker Louise Lunt has launched a petition on Change.org calling for blood bikers to be permitted to use green

Andrew Rogers

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

emergency headlights to improve visibility during emergency runs.

She said: “As a dedicated blood biker, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges we face on the roads while performing our voluntary duties.

“Recently, a fellow blood biker tragically lost their life on duty, marking the second such incident in just a few months. Before these incidents, another blood biker sadly died on shift in Lancashire.”

Ms Lunt said the visibility of blood bikers — who often operate at night and out of hours — is “alarmingly limited”, despite the critical nature of their work.

She is campaigning for green lights to be legally permitted on blood bikes, similar to the blue lights used by emergency services.

“Much like ambulances and police vehicles, green lights would significantly improve our visibility and alert other road users to our role,” she said.

She added that road safety studies suggest high-visibility lighting can

reduce accident risk by up to sixty per cent.

“Allowing green lights could help prevent further tragic incidents,” she said. “We urge decision-makers to recognise the vital role blood bikers play and support this small but potentially life-saving change.”

The petition has already attracted more than 1,000 signatures. Those wishing to support the campaign can find it on Change.org by searching Grant permission for blood bikers to use green lights.

Neyland man remanded on bail over alleged vehicle offences

A nEyLAnd man has been remanded on conditional bail after appearing before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ court accused of a series of vehicle-related offences.

Kristian Davies, aged 35, of Rock Cottages, Neyland, appeared before magistrates on Monday (Jan 5).

The court heard that Davies faces three allegations, all said to have taken place on Thursday (Dec 5). These include aggravated vehicle taking as the initial taker, using a motor vehicle on a road or public place without insurance, and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

Fined for breaching criminal behaviour order

A HAVERfoRdWEST woman has been fined after admitting breaching the terms of a criminal behaviour order.

Samantha Hughes, aged 29, of Prendergast, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jan 7).

The court heard that Hughes breached the terms of a criminal behaviour order, imposed following previous convictions, by entering a prohibited retail premises on December 22, 2025.

She pleaded guilty to the offence.

Magistrates imposed a financial penalty, ordering Hughes to pay a fine,

together with prosecution costs and a victim surcharge. No further action was taken on the underlying order, which remains in force

No reporting restrictions were

Magistrates were told that the aggravated vehicle taking allegation is the most serious of the matters before the court, with the remaining offences arising from the same sequence of events.

Davies has entered guilty pleas in relation to the matters currently before the court.

He was remanded on conditional bail to allow for assessments and reports to be prepared ahead of sentencing. The case will return to the magistrates’ court at a later date.

No further details were released at this stage.

Community order for shoplifting offence

A MILfoRd

man has been given a community order after admitting a theft offence.

Andrew

Wednesday (Jan 7).

The court heard that Lewis was charged with shoplifting, relating to an incident on December 11, 2025, when goods were stolen from a local retail premises.

He pleaded guilty to the offence at the first opportunity.

Magistrates imposed a community order, requiring Lewis to complete a specified number of unpaid work hours. He was also ordered to pay compensation, along with prosecution costs and a victim surcharge.

No reporting restrictions were imposed.

Community joins police effort as search continues for man missing in River Teifi

A co-oRdInATEd land search involving police and local volunteers is taking place today (Thursday, Jan 8) as efforts continue to locate a man who entered the River Teifi in the early hours of Sunday (Jan 4).

The man, named locally as 29-yearold Kurtis Brook, was last seen shortly after 5:15am on Sunday near a buoy close to Cardigan’s new bridge. Emergency services were alerted and a large-scale search operation was launched soon afterwards.

Since then, teams from Dyfed-Powys Police have led extensive searches along the river and surrounding areas, supported by specialist resources including drones, search dogs, a marine unit, and the RNLI and HM Coastguard. Despite several days of intensive activity, Kurtis has not yet been found.

On Wednesday, friends and local volunteers also took part in searches on the water using small boats, working both downstream towards Patch and upstream along the upper reaches of the Teifi. Police have continued to coordinate these efforts to ensure safety and avoid duplication.

Today’s land search is being organised alongside police, with volunteers asked to gather at Cardigan Police Station at 10:00am. From there, participants are being allocated specific search areas before heading out on foot.

Kurtis’ sister-in-law, Louise Benatmane, said the family is particularly keen to hear from people who know the

area well.

“We are looking for anyone who is fit and able and has good local knowledge of snickleways, alleyways and paths around the town and river,” she said.

Chief Inspector Richard Yelland, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said a significant amount of ground and water has already been covered since the search began.

“We are doing all we can to locate Kurtis and can reassure the public that extensive searches have taken place over the past few days,” he said. “We are extremely grateful for the support shown by the local community, but we continue to ask members of the public not involved in the organised search to stay away from the riverbanks, as conditions remain hazardous.”

Kurtis has been described by those who know him as family-orientated and kind-hearted, and his family have spoken of being overwhelmed by the level of support shown by the community.

His brother Ryan thanked those who have already volunteered their time.

“Everyone who has turned up to help has been incredible,” he said. “We just want people to keep safe while they’re helping. Any support at all is hugely appreciated.”

A Facebook page providing verified updates on the search has been set up by the family under the name Kurtis Brook – Cardigan, Wales.

Pembroke Dock man charged over failure to provide specimen

A pEMbRoKE docK man has been charged after allegedly failing to provide a specimen for analysis when required by police.

Robert Wardle, aged 41, of Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jan 5).

The court heard that Wardle is accused of failing to provide a specimen for analysis on Friday (Jan 3), contrary to road traffic legislation.

The case was adjourned for a future hearing.

No plea was entered at this stage, and Wardle was released on bail.

Motorist given interim ban after crash leaves passenger with serious neck injury

A 75-yEAR-oLd motorist has been given an interim driving ban after driving into the path of an oncoming vehicle near the entrance to the Mayfield Driving Range in Freystrop.

Anthony Davey was driving his Skoda Fabia into the entrance of the Mayfield Golf Centre on the afternoon of Saturday (Mar 9) when he collided with a Hyundai, in which Katy Anderson was a front-seat passenger.

As a result of the impact, Ms Anderson suffered a fractured neck bone, requiring extensive hospital treatment and ultimately leading to the loss of her career.

“It was a clear, sunny day and both vehicles were extensively damaged,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“Following the collision, the defendant could be heard saying: ‘I didn’t see you.’”

A victim impact statement was read to the court in which Ms Anderson described the physical, emotional and financial consequences of the crash.

“The hospital process was long, and when I discharged myself I was placed in a hard neck brace for 14 weeks and was unable to bathe, wash myself, or do anything alone,” she said.

“I am a single parent to two children under the age of 18, and this has been unbelievably difficult.

“I couldn’t watch my sons play

A HAVERfoRdWEST man has been sent to the crown court for sentencing after indicating a guilty plea to breaching sex offender notification requirements.

Christopher Spelman, aged 66,

football or continue my work as a support worker. I had to rely on sick pay and was unable to return to the job I had done for over 20 years, which has now led to unemployment. This has caused me great depression.”

Davey, of Milner Cottage, Herbrandston, pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless and inconsiderate driving.

Sentencing was adjourned until Tuesday (Jan 28) to allow probation reports to be prepared. Davey was released on unconditional bail, with an interim driving disqualification imposed.

of no fixed abode, Haverfordwest, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jan 5).

The court heard that Spelman failed to comply with the requirements of the sex offenders register on Friday (Jan 3). The offence relates to a failure to notify police as required under the notification provisions.

Spelman indicated a guilty plea to the offence at the hearing.

Due to the seriousness of the matter, magistrates committed the case to the Crown Court for sentencing. He was remanded in custody to appear before the higher court.

Suspended prison sentence for drugs, weapons and driving offences

A MILfoRd HAVEn man has been given a suspended prison sentence after admitting a string of offences including drug possession, carrying an offensive weapon and multiple driving matters.

Simon Rees, aged 28, of Observatory Avenue, Hakin, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jan 7).

The court heard that Rees pleaded guilty to driving a motor vehicle with a proportion of a specified controlled drug above the legal limit, relating to an incident on August 26, 2025. That offence was before the court on several linked matters and was dealt with as part of the same sentencing exercise.

He also admitted possessing a Class B controlled drug (cannabis) on December 20, 2025.

In relation to a separate incident on

November 5, 2025, Rees pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, as well as dangerous driving, using a motor vehicle without insurance, and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

The court also took into account a further offence of failing to attend for, or remain for the duration of, an impairment assessment, connected to the December incident. That matter was taken into consideration and attracted no separate penalty.

Magistrates imposed a suspended prison sentence, bringing together the most serious offences, and ordered that certain property be forfeited and destroyed. His driving record was also endorsed, with some matters resulting in no separate penalty as part of the overall sentence.

Rees was ordered to pay prosecution costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.

Gumfreston Tenby road flooding call to Welsh Government

A pETITIon call to the Welsh government to find a long-term solution to a regularly flood-hit road at the entrance to Tenby has been submitted by a local councillor.

The Gumfreston area near the south Pembrokeshire seaside town is regularly hit with floods, and councillors have previously heard its existing warning system appeared to not like working when its wet, with St Florence and St Mary Out Liberty county councillor Rhys Jordan frequently raising the issue at full council meetings.

The petition, created by Cllr Jordan, entitled ‘Lead and fund a long-term flood mitigation solution for the B4318 and Tenby catchment,’ has attracted more than 500 signatures to date and runs up until January 31.

It says: “The B4318 floods repeatedly, cutting off a key access route to Tenby. Although the road is maintained by Pembrokeshire County Council, flooding is caused by surface water runoff, high River Ritec levels, and tidal locking at the South Beach outfall during high tides. These combined factors mean local highway measures alone cannot resolve the problem.

“Flooding on the B4318 is frequent and disruptive, affecting residents, businesses, emergency access, schools and the local economy. Local options have been pursued but are limited by factors beyond the council’s control, including river capacity, catchment drainage, and coastal discharge constraints. Climate

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change is increasing the frequency and severity of rainfall and tiderelated flooding, making the situation unsustainable.

“We are asking the Welsh Government to provide national leadership by coordinating relevant bodies such as Natural Resources Wales and Pembrokeshire County Council to assess the full catchment, including surface water, river, and tidal influences. A long-term,

climate-resilient solution is required, supported by appropriate capital funding, to protect access to Tenby and reduce ongoing flood risk for the community.”

All petitions with more than 250 signatures will be discussed by the Petitions Committee after they have finished collecting signatures; any petition reaching 10,000 will be considered for a debate in the Senedd.

At the December meeting of Pembrokeshire county council, a submitted question calling for an improvement in communication of

road closures caused by flooding in the area was heard, with members agreeing the question be submitted to a future meeting of the county council’s Cabinet for further consideration.

n his submitted question, Cllr Jordan had said: “The B4318 at Gumfreston is prone to persistent flooding during adverse weather conditions, leading to road closures that disrupt travel and pose safety risks for residents and motorists.

“Currently, closures are not effectively communicated to residents, causing inconvenience, delays, and potential hazards. An efficient alert system would provide timely information to residents, allowing them to plan alternative routes and ensuring safety.”

Last October, Cllr Jordan had asked at full council for an update on progress made toward improving the flood warning system in the Gumfreston area.

He had asked: “Can you give me an assurance that the flood warning system will actually work this autumn and winter?

“Only yesterday [October 16] the road was flooded and no warning signs were on; it seems to work when the road is not flooded, but they don’t like operating when its wet.”

He described it as “probably the most closed road in the county,” but one where there was the least communication on.

Members were previously given a ‘full commitment’ to improvements to the warning systems would be made.

to stand trial over knives found at Withybush Hospital

A pEMbRoKESHIRE man is to stand trial after allegedly being found in possession of two bladed articles while inside Withybush general Hospital.

Sion Williams, 50, is accused of entering the hospital on December 13 while carrying a hunting knife and a lock knife.

Williams, of Saint Stephens, The Croft, Tenby, appeared before District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he denied both charges.

The case has been listed for trial on Feb 4, and Williams was released on unconditional bail.

Man fined for failing to provide driver details

A HAVERfoRdWEST man has been fined after admitting failing to provide driver information when required by police.

Thomas Jones, aged 39, of Perrotts Way, Haverfordwest, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jan 7).

The court heard that Jones failed to give information relating to the identification of a driver following an alleged motoring offence on September 14, 2025.

He pleaded guilty to the offence at the

first opportunity. Magistrates imposed a fine, ordered Jones to pay prosecution costs and a victim surcharge, and endorsed his driving record with penalty points. No reporting restrictions were imposed.

Remanded on bail over vehicle interference allegation

A pEMbRoKE docK man has been remanded on conditional bail after appearing in court charged with vehicle-related and bail offences.

Kane Stewart, aged 20, of Wavell Crescent, Pembroke Dock, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jan 7).

The court heard that Stewart was charged with vehicle interference, relating to an incident on November 29, 2025.

He also faced two charges of failing

to answer to police or court bail as required, both dated December 16, 2025.

Stewart pleaded not guilty to the vehicle interference allegation, while pleading guilty to one of the bail offences. The remaining bail charge was withdrawn by the Crown Prosecution Service, following the guilty plea already entered.

Magistrates remanded Stewart on conditional bail, with the case adjourned to a later date.

Former carpenter jailed for sexual and physical abuse of children

THE sentencing of david prothero was described by police as being “as much about freedom as it is about justice” for his young victims.

A man has been jailed for sexually abusing two young girls and physically assaulting other children, in a case in which he initially attempted to blame his offending on alcohol and drug use.

David Prothero, 39, repeatedly sexually assaulted the children, including an incident in which he molested a girl while she was wearing her school party dress. He also orally raped one of his victims. In total, he subjected four children to sexual abuse or physical violence.

At Swansea Crown Court, the judge described Prothero’s actions as “inexcusable” and warned that his behaviour would have “devastating” longterm consequences for the victims.

Prosecutor Andrew Kendall told the court that the offences came to light in August last year when one victim disclosed to her mother that she had been sexually assaulted and orally raped by Prothero. One of the assaults involved him touching the girl’s breasts while she was in a party dress.

Following these revelations, police launched an investigation, which identified further victims: a young teenage girl who had been repeatedly sexually abused, and a boy and girl who had been subjected to physical violence.

Prothero, from Tumble,

Carmarthenshire, had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of oral rape of a female aged 13, four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a female under 18, four counts of sexual assault, ill-treatment of a child, and assault by beating. He has one previous conviction for being drunk and disorderly from 2009.

Defence barrister James Hartson told the court that Prothero had no prior history of sexual or violent offending. He said his client was “mortified, ashamed, and deeply embarrassed” by his actions and was “struggling to come to terms” with them. Hartson explained that Prothero had previously worked as a carpenter before developing addictions to drugs and alcohol. While Prothero had attempted to attribute his offending to substance misuse, the barrister acknowledged that this “was not an explanation which washed with probation and will not wash with this court—there can be no excuse.”

Judge Huw Rees emphasised the “inexcusable” nature of Prothero’s behaviour and its “devastating” impact on both the victims and their families.

Taking into account his guilty pleas, Prothero was sentenced to ten and a half years in prison. He will serve twothirds of the sentence in custody, with the remainder served on licence in the community. He will be a registered sex offender for life and is subject to indefinite sexual harm prevention orders, as well

as lifelong restraining orders to prevent contact with his victims.

Dyfed-Powys Police detective inspector Rebecca Thomas, of the Carmarthenshire rape investigation team, described the case as “disturbing,” involving four young and innocent victims.

She praised the victims’ courage, saying: “The bravery shown by the victims in this case must be recognised. Their courage to speak out against this abuser is ultimately what has put David Prothero in prison today. These children

are a credit to themselves and to their family.

“If anyone, no matter their age, finds themselves suffering in silence, I want to encourage them to come forward. We have a dedicated team of investigators, specially trained in crimes of this nature, who will support you every step of the way. We are compassionate, and we are capable. We will do everything we can to secure justice, as we have seen today.

“I won’t forget the moment one victim said, ‘He can’t control me anymore,’ when Prothero entered his guilty pleas.”

Prolific shoplifter jailed after stealing nearly £300 of goods from Cardigan store

A pRoLIfIc north pembrokeshire shoplifter has been jailed after stealing almost £300 worth of goods from a b&M store in cardigan.

Andrew O’Connell, 38, was seen entering the store on Sunday (Jan 5) before leaving carrying two large carrier bags.

“Both bags were full of items, including groceries and electrical goods,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

O’Connell walked along Aberystwyth Road before being arrested by police at the bus stop adjacent to the Tesco store.

O’Connell pleaded guilty to the B&M theft and to stealing a van containing two dogs from John Street car park in Carmarthen in June 2024.

“The van was owned by Richard Bramley, who was a stallholder at the street market adjacent to Marks and Spencer in Carmarthen,” Ms James said.

“He had left his two dogs inside the van, along with stock for his plant stall, and the vehicle was unlocked. When he returned a short time later, the van had gone.

“He was emotionally distressed and particularly concerned about the whereabouts of the dogs.”

solicitor Alan Lewis.

“Money was tight after Christmas, so he went to B&M and took the items,” Mr Lewis said. “All of the goods were later recovered.”

Mr Lewis told the court that O’Connell’s offending began around three years ago following the death of his mother.

“This affected him deeply,” he said. “Around the same time, he separated from his partner, and that is when drug and alcohol misuse began, which he is now trying to address.

“Prior to this, he was supervising adults at a care farm, so this represents a significant fall from grace. It is very sad.”

However, probation officer Julie Norman said repeated attempts to support O’Connell had been ignored.

Sentencing him to eight weeks in custody, District Judge Layton said O’Connell’s record left the court with no alternative.

“Your pattern of offending shows you are constantly going into shops and stealing,” he said. “There is no slowdown in your behaviour, so the only option is custody.”

O’Connell was represented by

Street CCTV footage traced the vehicle, which was later recovered by police. The court was told that nothing had been stolen from the van and both dogs were returned to their owner unharmed.

O’Connell was also ordered to pay a £154 surcharge and £85 in costs.

Owners of empty Pembrokeshire homes could be forced to sell them

poWERS allowing pembrokeshire’s council to potentially force the sale of problem long-term empty properties as a last resort, are expected to be backed by senior councillors next week.

Long-term empty properties in Pembrokeshire are currently charged a premium council tax rate of 300 per cent for those empty for more than two years, effectively a quadruple tax bill.

A report for members on a draft empty properties strategy of 202530, was presented to Pembrokeshire County Council’s Policy and Pre-Decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting back in November, where it was supported, with a formal decision to be made by the council’s Cabinet.

It said the strategy for scrutiny was an important strategic shift from a previous Cabinet agreed action plan as it introduced “the inclusion of an enforced sales procedure as a formal intervention tool when circumstances require”.

Members heard such a sale would only be considered if a long list of criteria had been met.

The report said: “It is important to stress that this procedure is likely to be rarely used and only in cases where there is no other option but necessary due the extend of works that the council has had to undertake to make improvements to

the property. The main focus will always be that of informal and supportive action with property owners.”

It added: “Long-term, often problematic empty properties are considered a waste of a valuable resource which could be added to the pool of much-needed housing in the county. They can also frequently become blights to neighbourhoods by becoming targets for antisocial behaviour, trespass, vandalism and arson.

“In addition to this they can become eyesores which devalue nearby properties, become sources of harbourage for vermin infestations, and can also become significant drains on the resources of the county council, police, and fire and rescue services.

“Every effort is made to engage with owners, however, it is often the case that they are unwilling or unable to undertake the necessary work and therefore enforcement action may be considered.”

It was stressed the enforced acquisition would not be used to pursue those who hadn’t paid the council tax premium but could be used in certain cases like when safety work had to be undertaken by the council and the owners wouldn’t pay.

At Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet meeting of January 12, it is

recommended that members endorse the strategic plans which “will enable a focused corporate approach to dealing with problematic empty properties within the county”.

A report for members says: “The Strategic Plan provides the framework that sets the strategic and corporate approach towards dealing with empty properties. The use of the range of legal powers available to the authority

will be in accordance with enforcement policy of best interests, and utilising the enforced sales route would be a last resort.

“Legal opinion would be sought prior to any legal action. The work carried out by officers prior to considering using the enforced sales route will provide an opportunity to support owners and individuals to ensure they are dealt with in a fair and sympathetic manner.”

Warrant issued for Australian man accused of injuring motorist on Pembs road

A WARRAnT without bail has been issued for an Australian resident accused of causing serious injury to another motorist during an alleged incident in pembrokeshire in 2024.

Ian Makey, 67, is accused of causing injury to Leslie Lovatt as a result of inconsiderate and careless driving on the A478 at Rhos Hill, Pembrokeshire, on July 29.

The case has appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court

on several occasions, with the court previously considering whether proceedings could continue given the defendant’s residence in Berowra, New South Wales.

However, this week Crown Prosecutor Nia James applied for a warrant without bail to be issued for Makey’s arrest, citing the public interest.

The application was granted by District Judge Mark Layton.

Publican remanded in custody over cocaine supply allegation

A MILfoRd HAVEn publican has been remanded in custody after denying being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Daniel Booth appeared before District Judge Mark Layton, sitting at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he denied the allegation following his arrest on Saturday (Jan 4).

The Crown alleges that a “substantial quantity of cocaine” — weighing 27 grams — was discovered concealed inside the air filter of a van that had recently been sold by Booth to an unrelated third party.

Prosecutors also told the court that £1,682 in cash was found in Booth’s possession at the time of his arrest. A subsequent search of his home uncovered small traces of cocaine and cannabis.

“There are also multiple sources of mobile phone evidence from various drug investigations that clearly point towards the defendant as being directly involved in drug dealing since 2024,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told the court.

Ms James added that Booth refused to provide police with the PIN code for his mobile phone following his arrest.

“He told officers that it was his business phone and that he did not want police accessing his business activities,” she said.

Booth, of Priory Road, Milford Haven, denies being concerned in the supply of cocaine and a further charge of acquiring

“He has provided a full explanation regarding both the vehicle and the cash found in his possession.”

criminal property.

He was represented by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who argued that his client should be released on bail.

“The drugs were found in a vehicle he had owned for only a very short period of time,” Mr Lloyd said. “He sold the vehicle on and informed police that forensic enquiries would not link him to it.

Haverfordwest woman avoids jail after lashing out at paramedic

A 61-yEAR-oLd Haverfordwest woman has narrowly avoided a custodial sentence after lashing out at a paramedic at Withybush general Hospital.

Louise Wiltshire was taken to hospital on the morning of Thursday (Dec 12) after making a 999 call during which she threatened to take her own life.

“Police attended her home and could see that she was very drunk,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“She said her father had recently died, nobody cared about her, but that she had decided not to kill herself because she cared too much for her cats. She told officers she was ‘pissed as a fart’ and that no one wanted to know her.”

Fearing for her safety, officers requested an ambulance to convey Wiltshire to Withybush General Hospital for observation.

“She was initially compliant, but on arrival at Withybush she lashed out at a paramedic, fortunately causing no

injury,” Ms James said.

Wiltshire also shouted obscenities which were heard by other patients waiting in the A&E department.

Wiltshire, of Fleming Crescent, Haverfordwest, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in a public place. She was represented in court by Alaw Harries.

Ms Harries told the court that Wiltshire had been grieving the death of her father, who had died just three weeks earlier, and had turned back to alcohol.

Imposing sentence, District Judge Mark Layton reminded Wiltshire of her extensive offending history.

“You have a significant number of drunk and disorderly offences going back to 2007,” he said. “Fortunately for you, the paramedic did not press charges. If he had, you would have been going to prison today.

“You are making a nuisance of yourself.”

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

Mr Lloyd also told the court that Booth had recently taken on a lease for a public house in Milford Haven.

“The consequences of being remanded in custody will place that

business in jeopardy,” he said.

Despite the application, District Judge Layton ordered that Booth be remanded in custody. He is due to appear next at Swansea Crown Court on Thursday, February 6.

Booth is the licensee of The Vibe, Charles Street, Milford Haven.

Officer describes fear after Taser has no effect on suspect

A SERVING police officer has described his fear after repeated attempts to Taser a suspected drugdriver failed during a roadside arrest on the A40.

PC Dylan Davies was attempting to arrest 41-year-old Mark Logan last November when the defendant sprayed him several times with an unidentified red substance and appeared unaffected by multiple Taser deployments.

“I had no idea what it was nor what harm it would do to me,” PC Davies said in a victim impact statement read to District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“After being a police officer for four years, this was the first time I have ever had to request assistance.”

The court heard that Logan was seen driving a black Audi A1 eastbound on the A40 at around 3.30pm on November 1.

When a police check revealed the vehicle was registered to a female, PC Davies activated his blue lights and Logan brought the car to a stop near Haverfordwest.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James said that when Logan got out of the vehicle, the officer immediately noticed he was wide-eyed and unsteady on his feet.

“When he was asked to get into the back of the police vehicle, he became hostile,” she said.

Logan struck PC Davies on the hands, preventing the officer from taking hold of him.

“He became more aggressive and I was fearful he was going to assault me due to his erratic behaviour,” PC Davies said.

Logan then began walking towards the officer while spraying him with the unidentified red substance.

“I knew he was a danger to myself and to members of the public,” PC Davies continued.

“I felt the spray land on my body and he showed a clear intention to harm me. He remained incredibly hostile and I didn’t know what other weapons he had on him.”

PC Davies said he drew his Taser and shouted repeatedly for Logan to get on the ground, but Logan ran towards the Toyota garage.

“I red-dotted him and continued to shout at him to get to the ground, but he ignored me,” he said.

Logan then walked back towards the officer.

“At that point I didn’t know what to

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expect, so I deployed my Taser,” PC Davies said.

“But he appeared totally unbothered and began pulling at the Taser wires. I re-engaged it and Tasered him again, instructing him to lie face-down on the ground, but again he refused. The Taser had no effect on him whatsoever.”

A further attempt by PC Davies to restrain Logan using physical contact also failed.

Additional officers soon arrived and succeeded in bringing Logan to the ground, where he was handcuffed.

During a police interview, Logan confirmed he had a knife on him. A subsequent search found a black locking knife inside his jacket pocket, with a blade measuring 10cm.

Ms James told the court that as a result of the incident, PC Davies suffered facial irritation from the spray and “overwhelming” pain to his arm.

Logan, of Glandwr House, Lower Cwmtwrch, Swansea, pleaded guilty to possessing a knife in a public place and assaulting an emergency worker by beating.

He was represented by solicitor Alaw Harries, who said Logan had no previous convictions.

“He has always been in employment and is an upstanding member of the community,” she said.

“He fully accepts his behaviour was unacceptable, but at the time he was experiencing significant mental health difficulties, which have since been recognised by medical professionals.”

She told the court these included paranoia, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and psychotic tendencies.

Ms Harries said the red spray was a self-defence device that can be legally purchased online, including via Amazon, and added that Logan was “extremely motivated to work with probation” following the offence.

After hearing mitigation, District Judge Mark Layton adjourned sentencing until January 20.

He warned Logan that custody was being considered, but said it was not yet clear whether any sentence would be immediate or suspended, pending a probation report on the possible imposition of a curfew.

Logan was released on unconditional bail.

Postal firm plans new development in Solva

pLAnS for an Inpost e-commerce parcel locker service at a pembrokeshire seaside village have been submitted to the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, InPost UK, through agent Skipton-based NL Jones Planning, seeks permission for an InPost Parcel Locker at Bay View Stores, Maes Ewan, Solva.

InPost is an affordable and easy-touse parcel locker service throughout the UK where you can send and return parcels quickly with contact-free delivery.

A supporting statement says: “In 2024, we delivered 93.2 million parcels across the UK. We partner with a wide range of public and private landowners to host InPost Lockers – from local authorities, transport operators, supermarkets, independent retailers, small medium enterprises, and developers.”

It says e-commerce now accounts for 30 per cent of all retail UK sales, but “while this growth brings consumer

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convenience, the final leg of delivery – known as the ‘last-mile’ – is putting pressure on our streets and wallets, if all deliveries continue to be delivered to door,” with both more delivery vehicles on the road and “home deliveries more inconvenient and missed parcels more common” as more people return to the office post-Covid.

It adds: “InPost is committed to stimulating economic growth, having announced a further £600 million investment until 2029 bringing our total UK investment to £1 billion – supporting up to 12,000 jobs while boosting national and regional logistics capabilities.

“As a business, we also stimulate the local economy in several ways: Competitive industry leading postage rates – our latest service, Send, allows label-free parcel sending to any InPost locker or home-address from £1.99.

Motorist banned after being caught driving with cocaine in his system

A pEMbRoKESHIRE motorist has been banned from driving after being caught behind the wheel with extremely high levels of cocaine in his system.

Rhun Francis, 53, was stopped by police on August 13 while driving his Ford Puma through Letterston. Subsequent blood tests revealed he had 800 micrograms of benzoylecgonine and 103 micrograms of cocaine per litre of blood. The legal limits are 50 micrograms and 10 micrograms respectively.

Traces of cannabis were also detected in his blood, but these were within the specified legal limit.

“These levels are extremely high and, as a result, cross the community threshold,” District Judge Mark Layton said after Francis pleaded guilty to two counts of drug-driving at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Francis, of Alclud, Penbanc, Fishguard, was said to have taken steps to address his drug use since the offence.

Probation officer Julie Norman told the court that he had not used drugs since his arrest and had sought support from the

Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service.

“He has struggled with substance misuse for many years and also has alcohol issues, but he is now motivated and taking positive steps to address these problems,” she said.

Francis was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order, during which he must complete ten rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was also disqualified from driving for 20 months, fined £120, and ordered to pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

Man charged with strangling woman

A pEMbRoKE man has appeared in court charged with intentionally strangling a woman.

Matthew Sawyer, aged 34, of Laugharne Close, Pembroke, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court accused of one count of intentional strangulation.

The court heard allegations that

“This service offers substantial new business opportunities often for local small and medium businesses, such as Etsy sellers, offering a more convenient, efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional services.”

It says the service also benefits small local businesses such as convenience stores through increased footfall, adding:

“In exchange for hosting a locker, InPost pays landlords guaranteed rent, transforming unused spaces to become a popular in-demand community asset that also provides a new additional income stream.”

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

Sawyer strangled a woman in Neyland on May 3.

Magistrates ruled that the case was too serious to be dealt with at summary level and sent it to Swansea Crown Court.

Sawyer is due to appear there to enter a plea on January 2. He was granted bail until that date.

Milford Haven Dragon LNG jetty repairs could cost £5m

A MARI n E licence call for an up to £5m scheme for repairs to p embrokeshire’s d ragon L ng Jetty has been submitted to n atural Resources Wales ( n RW).

In an application, to Natural Resources Wales, Dragon LNG plans to undertake inspections and any repair works at a 1960s jetty in the Milford Haven Waterway; the closing date for representations is January 9, with the project potential

estimated costs listed as £5m.

A supporting document accompanying the application say:

“DragonLNG is looking to undertake repairs for the jetty at Milford Haven. The jetty was constructed in the 1960s, built of steel piles, with a concrete roadway on top.

Recent observations have identified

potential issues with the integrity of the concrete roadway.

“In response, DragonLNG is looking to undertake an inspection of the jetty and carry out any subsequent repairs. The inspection and repairs works would be undertaken during the low shipping period (May to September) and expected to last up to four years.

“The inspection will consist of constructing a temporary access

system. The concrete will be inspected visually and also through the use of a ‘hammer test’ (using a handheld hammer to determine the thickness and state of the concrete). The inspection will inform whether repairs are only required for the concrete or if the rebars also need replacing. Following the repair works, a protective coating will be applied to the jetty.”

The total area of concrete on the jetty is approximately 3,000 square metres, the application says.

It adds: “Deteriorated concrete will be removed using a combination of hand tools, pneumatic chipping hammers, and, where appropriate, hydro-demolition. Removal will be controlled to prevent overbreak, minimise damage to surrounding structures and loss to the marine environment.

“Concrete will be poured in small sections of up to 2 m. Depending on the location and access chosen, concrete will be poured using either form-and-pour techniques, shotcrete application, or pre-mixed concrete delivered via pump lines. Admixtures may be used to improve workability and reduce curing time.

“A protective coating will then be applied to the concrete using rollers (or similar). The coating to be used will be reviewed to ensure suitable for application in the marine environment. It is expected to provide adequate protection against typical conditions encountered in coastal and offshore environments.”

Stalker to be sentenced after two-year campaign of harassment

A pEMbRoKESHIRE stalker who repeatedly hounded his victim for more than two years is to be sentenced later this month.

Glent Hunt, 36, pleaded guilty to stalking when he appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

The court heard that between June 2023 and October 2025, Hunt repeatedly targeted a woman by sending multiple messages, making phone calls and leaving voice notes, behaviour which caused her harassment, alarm and distress.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told District Judge Mark Layton, sitting

at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday: “This happened over a prolonged period of time between June 2023 and October 2025.”

Miss James said Hunt, of Paynter Street, Pembroke, had previous convictions for similar offences dating back to 2014, 2016 and 2023, involving different female victims.

Sentencing was adjourned until Tuesday, January 28, for probation reports to be prepared.

Hunt was released on conditional bail. Conditions include that he must not contact the victim directly or indirectly and must not attend her address in Pembroke Dock.

Pembroke Dock motorist elects Crown Court trial over serious injury collision

A 66-yEAR-oLd pembroke dock motorist has elected to stand trial at the crown court after being charged with causing serious injury to a pedestrian who was walking his dog.

Edward Seward is accused of causing extensive leg injuries to Andrew Emmanuel after allegedly driving without due care and attention

National Grid urges West Wales residents to prepare for possible power cuts

nATIonAL gRId Electricity distribution has urged customers across West Wales to prepare for potential power cuts as Storm goretti is forecast to bring snow, heavy rain and strong winds to the region.

The company said the electricity network is designed to be resilient, but extreme weather can still cause disruption. High winds can damage equipment, while freezing conditions can lead to ice building up on overhead power lines, increasing the risk of faults.

Extra engineering and customer support teams have been placed on standby to respond quickly should the storm impact power supplies.

Roisin Quinn, Field Operations Director at National Grid Electricity Distribution, said the organisation had been preparing for severe weather throughout the year.

She said: “Our electricity network is built to be resilient, and we prepare year-round to ensure our teams are ready to respond quickly to any damage caused by Storm Goretti.

“We understand how worrying severe weather can be. That’s why our engineers, contact centre staff and welfare teams are ready to support customers, whatever the storm brings.

“Our control centre will be operating 24/7 to manage supplies and coordinate a rapid response if power lines are affected. We’ve increased staffing across our engineering and customer

on Temple Bar Road, Pentlepoir, on Tuesday (Aug 15), 2023.

“Mr Emmanuel was walking his dog when the defendant impacted with him, causing injuries to his leg,”

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told District Judge Mark Layton, sitting at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“As a result, the victim sustained multiple fractures, including four

to the shin and three to the fibula, which required a lengthy operation at Morriston Hospital,” she said.

Seward, of East Llanion Marine, Waterloo, Pembroke Dock, denies the charge.

He elected a Crown Court trial, which is due to begin at Swansea Crown Court later this month. Seward was released on unconditional bail.

Environmental concerns remain as grounded vessel continues to deteriorate at Dinas Bay

EnVIRonMEnTAL concerns are continuing to grow over a grounded guard vessel that has remained stranded on rocks at dinas bay since running aground during severe weather in december.

The GV Resolute became grounded while sheltering in the bay on December 11. All crew members were safely rescued at the time in a coordinated operation involving the RNLI and a search and rescue helicopter.

While the immediate danger to life was resolved, attention has since turned to the potential long-term environmental impact of the vessel remaining in a sensitive and exposed coastal location.

The Herald understands that all fuel has now been removed from the vessel, significantly reducing the risk of a major pollution incident. However, maritime observers say the continued exposure of the damaged vessel to winter storms increases the risk of further structural deterioration, debris loss and contamination from compromised onboard systems.

MonIToRIng conTInuES

HM Coastguard previously confirmed that the situation remains under active

Three vehicles involved in separate crashes on A40 near Letterston

Emergency services attended the scene after three separate vehicles were involved in collisions on a pembrokeshire A-road on Monday (dec 5).

The incidents occurred on the A40 near Letterston, where one vehicle struck a post, another left the carriageway and

ended up in a hedge, and a third collided with the central reservation.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said officers were called shortly before midday following reports of multiple collisions in the area, which were believed to be linked to difficult road conditions. No injuries were reported.

observation.

A spokesperson said at the time: “The vessel, which is still aground, is being monitored as tidal conditions change.”

The vessel remains wedged among rocks and reef, a position that experts say complicates any salvage operation and limits access for heavy recovery equipment.

Dinas Bay forms part of a rugged and ecologically sensitive stretch of the Pembrokeshire coastline, with reefs, rock pools and marine habitats that could be affected should the vessel’s condition worsen or break up during storms.

“Hyper-focused” rescue highlights risks of the location

The dangers posed by the location were underlined during the original rescue operation.

RNLI crew member Cedwyn Rogers previously described how volunteers had to switch into “hyper-focused” mode as training took over during the complex rescue from the rocks.

The comment highlights the challenging nature of the coastline and the risks faced not only by crews, but also by salvage teams now tasked with assessing the vessel’s future.

Pressure for decisive action

Photographs taken in recent days show the Resolute listing heavily against the rocks, with visible hull damage and clear signs of prolonged exposure to wave action.

There are growing concerns that sea water ingress may already have compromised internal systems, including electrics and machinery, potentially reducing the chances of the vessel ever returning to service.

Maritime sources warn that the longer the vessel remains in place, the greater the likelihood of further degradation, particularly as winter weather continues to batter the coast.

Environmental specialists say priorities now include continued monitoring, clear oversight by maritime and environmental authorities, and a timely decision on whether recovery, controlled dismantling or removal is required to prevent longterm harm.

No injuries were reported during the original incident, and there is currently no suggestion of wrongdoing. However, with storms continuing to affect the west coast, pressure is increasing for a clear plan to prevent the situation escalating into a wider environmental problem.

Milford Haven Town Council to meet to set 2026–27 precept

MILfoRd HAVEn ToWn councIL will hold a full council meeting next week to consider its budget and council tax precept for the 2026–27 financial year.

The meeting will take place on Monday (Jan 12) at 6:00pm at the Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets Unit, Unit A, Havens Head Business Park.

Councillors are expected to consider the council’s precept requirements for the coming year, which will determine the amount residents pay towards town council services.

The agenda also includes declarations of interest and the receipt of reports, recommendations and resolutions from the Cemetery Fees Sub-Committee,

which met on December 1.

Members of the public may attend, and remote access can be provided on request in line with the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021.

The meeting will be chaired by the Town Mayor, Councillor W. Elliott.

Recruitment drive launched to find thousands of new magistrates

A MAJoR recruitment campaign is under way to attract thousands of new magistrates in England and Wales, as the uK government presses ahead with wide-ranging reforms to tackle delays in the courts.

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed it wants to recruit a further 2,000 volunteer magistrates over the next financial year, building on the more than 2,000 already trained since 2022. The move forms part of efforts to reduce long-standing backlogs in the Crown Court system and deliver faster justice for victims.

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said magistrates were central to the justice system, dealing with the vast majority of criminal cases and playing a vital role in local communities.

He said: “Magistrates hear thousands of cases every year and deliver justice across every jurisdiction. They are everyday people serving their communities, and we need more volunteers from all backgrounds and age groups to step forward.

“Becoming a magistrate can be a lifechanging experience and makes a real difference to society.”

The recruitment drive follows the announcement of proposed court reforms in December, which include plans to expand magistrates’ sentencing powers. Under the proposals, magistrates could be allowed to impose prison sentences of up to 18 months, compared with the current limit of 12 months, enabling them to handle more serious cases. The government has also indicated that the cap could rise to 24 months if required.

Other proposals include limiting jury trials for certain offences and introducing faster-track courts within the Crown Court system, where cases could be heard by a single judge.

The Magistrates’ Association welcomed the renewed focus on the role but warned that additional support would be essential. It said increased responsibility must be matched by investment in trained legal advisers, proper staffing levels and repairs to deteriorating court buildings.

Magistrates are unpaid volunteers

and are expected to sit for a minimum of thirteen days each year. They are supported by professional legal advisers and work across criminal, youth, family and civil courts.

Latest figures from the Ministry of Justice show that 57% of magistrates are women, while 14% come from ethnic minority backgrounds. Outside London, diversity levels remain significantly lower than the population as a whole.

Judicial leaders say they are looking for applicants with strong communication skills, sound judgement, impartiality

and the ability to weigh up competing arguments.

However, the proposals have attracted criticism from opposition politicians. Shadow justice minister Kieran Mullan said the government’s record on court backlogs had worsened and warned that curbing jury trials risked damaging public confidence in the justice system.

He said recruiting more magistrates was welcome, but argued it would not resolve deeper structural problems within the courts.

Man faces multiple assault, harassment and vehicle offences

A pEMbRoKE docK man has appeared before magistrates facing a string of assault, harassment and vehicle-related offences committed over several months.

Tony Brundrett, aged 21, of no fixed abode, appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court in connection with nine separate offences dating between May and December 2025.

The court heard that Brundrett admitted a number of violent and nonviolent offences, including three counts of assault by beating, harassment without violence, criminal damage, and a series of motoring offences.

Assault and harassment offences

Brundrett pleaded guilty to assault by beating committed on May 21, October 30, and December 9 last year. He also admitted harassment without violence, contrary to the Protection from Harassment Act, relating to behaviour on September 17.

In addition, the court was told that Brundrett carried out criminal damage to property valued under £500 on November 16. Vehicle-related offences

Magistrates also dealt with a cluster of motoring offences arising from incidents on November 16, including:

• Aggravated vehicle taking as the initial taker

• Driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence

• Using a motor vehicle without insurance

The offences were considered together due to their close timing and circumstances.

Court outcome

The court imposed a suspended sentence order in relation to several of the offences, reflecting the seriousness of the violence involved while stopping short of immediate custody.

Brundrett was also ordered to pay costs to the Crown Prosecution Service, with the court taking into account his guilty pleas when determining sentence.

All matters were dealt with at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Dec 31).

Hate crime on public transport under scrutiny after west Wales rail incidents

A HATE crime recorded at west Wales railway station has brought renewed attention to rising levels of abuse and hostility on public transport, following national reporting that shows hate crime on the uK rail network has increased in recent years.

The Narberth incident, which occurred in late 2025, involved a minor and a transgender victim and was recorded by police as a hate crime. Due to safeguarding considerations, no further details were released and those involved were not identified.

The case comes amid wider concern across England and Wales after recent figures revealed a sustained rise in hate crime on trains and at stations. National

reporting based on British Transport Police (BTP) data shows that racially and religiously motivated hate crimes on public transport have increased since the pandemic, with campaigners warning that victims are increasingly feeling unsafe while travelling.

WHy IncIdEnTS ARE RISIng

Organisations supporting victims of hate crime have linked the national rise to a combination of factors, including greater social polarisation, the impact of online abuse spilling into public spaces, and a

reduction in staff presence on parts of the transport network.

Victim Support has previously said that public transport environments can leave victims feeling particularly vulnerable, as incidents often occur in confined spaces such as platforms, carriages or stations where escape or intervention is limited. Campaigners also warn that transgender people and visible minorities are disproportionately affected, even if total numbers remain smaller than other hate crime categories.

British Transport Police has acknowledged that reporting levels have increased, which it says reflects both improved confidence among victims to come forward and heightened awareness

of what constitutes hate crime. However, officers and charities alike stress that under-reporting remains a significant issue, especially in rural areas.

SMALL STATIonS,

dISpRopoRTIonATE fIguRES

In west Wales, attention has also been drawn to Johnston railway station, a tiny unstaffed request stop in Pembrokeshire, which has previously appeared in national rail crime analyses despite serving very small passenger numbers.

Johnston was identified as having one of the highest crime rates per passenger in the UK after BTP data showed around ten recorded incidents in a single year, set against an estimated annual footfall of just 7,000 passengers. While the total number of incidents was small in absolute terms, the low usage meant the rate appeared disproportionately high when compared with major city stations.

Rail safety specialists have said that lightly staffed or unstaffed rural stations can face particular challenges, including limited natural surveillance, fewer witnesses and delays in reporting incidents, even though the overall risk to passengers remains low.

nATIonAL TREnd REMAInS upWARd

Nationally, however, the picture is more pronounced. Thousands of hate crimes are recorded on the rail network each year, with racial and religious abuse accounting for the majority of cases. Community groups have warned that fear of abuse is causing some people to avoid travelling altogether, particularly during evenings or at quieter stations.

Although overall hate crime figures in the Dyfed-Powys police area have fallen in recent years, police stress that railway offences fall under BTP jurisdiction, meaning they are recorded separately from local force statistics.

Campaigners argue that even isolated incidents can have a significant impact in rural communities where public transport options are limited and alternative routes are not always available.

REpoRTIng And SuppoRT

British Transport Police urges anyone who experiences or witnesses hate crime or antisocial behaviour on the railway to report it by texting 61016, speaking to officers, or reporting online. In an emergency, passengers should call 999. Support is also available through Victim Support Wales, which offers confidential assistance to anyone affected by hate crime.

Whitland woman accused of arson sent to Crown Court

A WHITLAnd woman has been sent to the crown court after admitting an arson offence.

Sara Dix, aged 37, of Bryngwenllian, Whitland, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Dec 31) charged with arson.

The court heard that Dix was accused of committing arson on March 31, 2025, contrary to sections 1(1), 1(3) and 4 of the Criminal Damage Act.

Dix indicated a guilty plea to the

offence when the matter was put to her at the magistrates’ court.

Due to the seriousness of the charge, magistrates ruled that they did not have sufficient sentencing powers and committed the case to the Crown Court for sentence.

No reporting restrictions were imposed.

Dix will now appear before the Crown Court on a date to be fixed, where sentencing will be considered.

Teen sent to Crown accused of rape and controlling behaviour

A TEENAGER has been sent to the Crown Court accused of rape and a series of serious domestic abuse-related offences.

Jaydan Bell, aged 18, of Granby Close, Llanelli, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Dec 22) charged with three offences alleged to have taken place over a four-day period.

The court heard that Bell is accused of raping a woman aged 16 or over on Friday (Dec 20). He also faces an allegation of stalking, said to have occurred two days earlier, and a further charge of engaging in controlling or

coercive behaviour within an intimate or family relationship.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between December 16 and December 20.

No pleas were entered at the hearing.

Magistrates ruled that the case was too serious to be dealt with at magistrates’ level and ordered that all three matters be sent to the Crown Court for trial.

Bell was remanded on conditional bail pending his next appearance.

The case will now proceed through the Crown Court, where the allegations will be considered by a judge and jury.

Martin Clunes to portray Huw Edwards in new television

AcToR Martin clunes is to take on the role of disgraced former bbc newsreader Huw Edwards in a new factual drama examining one of the most damaging scandals in british broadcasting history.

The two-part series, provisionally titled Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, will air on Channel 5 and will chart Edwards’ rise to prominence, his fall from grace, and the events that culminated in his conviction and suspended prison sentence.

Clunes, best known for his longrunning role in Doc Martin, is depicted in character wearing a black suit and silver watch, seated in a newsroom studio with papers spread before him as journalists work in the background. The production aims to recreate the atmosphere of Britain’s flagship television news at the height of Edwards’ career.

Edwards began his broadcasting career in Wales before becoming one of the most recognisable and highestpaid presenters at the BBC, fronting News at Ten for decades. During that time, he delivered some of the most significant moments in recent British history, including coverage of the death of Queen Elizabeth II. His career ended in disgrace following a series of revelations that emerged in July 2023, when a

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newspaper report alleged that a senior BBC presenter had paid a teenager for sexual images. Days later, Edwards’ wife publicly identified him as the individual at the centre of the allegations. He resigned from the BBC in April 2024.

In June 2024, after an investigation by the Metropolitan Police, Edwards was charged with three counts of making indecent images of children, linked to WhatsApp exchanges with a man named Alex Williams. He pleaded guilty the following month, admitting to possessing forty-one images, including seven of the most serious category.

Edwards received a six-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for seven years.

Channel 5 said the drama will explore how the scandal unfolded and will feature interviews with journalists who first reported the story, as well as those involved in investigating the case. The series will be directed by Michael Samuels, known for acclaimed British dramas including The Windermere Children and Any Human Heart.

Ben Frow, Channel 5’s chief content officer, said the programme would examine “how a man in a position of

drama

power and trust betrayed that status,” adding that it would focus on “the human cost behind the headlines.”

The drama is expected to reignite debate about accountability,

safeguarding and power within British broadcasting, and marks the first major scripted portrayal of the Edwards scandal since his conviction.

Tenby named among UK’s happiest holiday towns

TEnby has been ranked as one of the happiest places in the uK, according to a nationwide survey of staycation destinations.

The Pembrokeshire seaside town placed fourth overall in a list of the UK’s top ten ‘happy places’, following a poll of 12,000 holidaymakers carried out as part of a national happiness campaign.

The research, commissioned by holidaycottages.co.uk, asked people to identify the towns and villages that make them feel happiest when taking a break in the UK.

Tenby was the highest-ranked location in Wales and finished behind St Ives in Cornwall, Keswick in Cumbria and Whitby in North Yorkshire.

coASTAL cHARM

Respondents highlighted Tenby’s colourful harbour, sandy beaches and historic town walls as key reasons for its appeal, with many describing the town as picturesque and relaxing.

Popular activities included walking sections of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, spending time on North Beach, exploring Castle Beach and visiting the remains of Tenby Castle. Boat trips to Caldey Island and browsing the town’s independent shops and cafés were also

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frequently mentioned.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path itself was named as one of the happiest outdoor experiences in the county, reflecting the area’s strong connection between coastal scenery and wellbeing.

Top TEn HAppIEST pLAcES

The full list of the UK’s happiest staycation destinations was revealed as:

St Ives Keswick Whitby Tenby Bamburgh Newquay Padstow Ambleside Wells-next-the-Sea

Bude

Coastal towns dominated the rankings, with eight of the ten locations situated by the sea.

Researchers said the results showed a clear preference for seaside

destinations, with beaches, coastal walks and harbour views playing a major role in people’s sense of relaxation and happiness.

A spokesperson for holidaycottages. co.uk said the survey aimed to highlight shared experiences that bring people joy, from scenic walks and wildlife spotting to simple pleasures such as eating fish and chips by the sea.

Although happiness means different things to different people, the study suggested that coastal landscapes continue to hold a special place for UK holidaymakers.

Tenby’s inclusion places Pembrokeshire firmly on the national map as one of the country’s most uplifting places to visit.

Wales-wide groups call for fair and democratic transition

coMMunITy groups from across Wales have united behind a new charter calling for a fundamental overhaul of how renewable energy developments are planned and approved.

The Charter for a Just Transition to Net Zero has been launched by an alliance of grassroots and environmental organisations who say current planning arrangements favour large-scale energy developers at the expense of local communities.

Campaigners argue that residents affected by wind farms, energy parks and grid infrastructure are being left without adequate information, influence or access to independent advice, while developments are approved piecemeal without proper consideration of cumulative impacts.

The groups say the planning system is failing to give communities a meaningful voice, despite the long-term consequences for landscapes, heritage and wellbeing.

Dr Jonathan Dean, spokesman for the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW), said Wales must address climate change without sidelining rural communities.

“Wales must tackle climate change, but not by excluding the very communities who live in and care for these landscapes,” he said. “This Charter sets out a credible and democratic path forward, and we are urging all political parties to adopt its

to Net Zero

principles ahead of the 2026 Senedd election.”

Concerns raised in the Charter include a lack of transparency around proposed schemes, limited opportunities for early engagement, and the growing pressure on communities facing multiple overlapping energy developments.

Jenny Chryss, campaign lead at ReThink, said communities across Wales were being overwhelmed by the scale and pace of proposals.

“Right now, Wales is seeing multiple energy schemes coming forward with little regard for cumulative impacts,

environmental damage or community wellbeing,” she said. “This Charter is about the basics: honesty, accountability and decisions that put people first.”

The Charter calls for a series of reforms, including early and clear disclosure of proposed developments, direct engagement with affected communities, and fair access to independent legal and technical advice.

It also calls for a pause on new approvals until cumulative impacts are properly assessed, alongside stronger protections for landscapes, heritage and public wellbeing.

Supporters say Wales can meet

its climate targets while maintaining democratic accountability and public trust, warning that failing to do so risks undermining confidence in the transition to Net Zero.

The Charter has been backed by community and environmental groups from across the country, including organisations representing areas facing significant pressure from large-scale renewable energy proposals.

CPRW, founded in 1928, said the document offers a practical route to delivering climate action without sacrificing rural communities or public confidence in the planning system.

U3A Wind Ensemble plans busy year of concerts and civic events

THE pEMbRoKESHIRE u3A Wind Ensemble is preparing for a packed programme of performances in 2026, with appearances planned at civic events, schools and concert venues across the county.

The ensemble has been reflecting on a busy 2025 while looking ahead to a year of new musical opportunities and expanded performances.

Last year saw the group’s first concert take place in May as part of the VE80 commemorations, followed by a demanding schedule later in the year, including performances around Remembrance Sunday and the Christmas period.

As planning for 2026 gets underway, the ensemble has confirmed that it has been invited by Haverfordwest Town Council to support a number of civic events. These include the Mayor Making ceremony, Beating the Bounds and the town carnival, alongside several other public occasions.

The group has also been invited to perform at Roche School as part of its music sessions, as well as visiting the music department at Pembrokeshire College.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

In addition, the ensemble is planning a programme of summer and Christmas concerts at venues across Pembrokeshire. It is hoped that these will include performances at the Merlin

with arrangements also progressing for concerts on a larger scale than those previously staged by the group.

Members of the ensemble

have thanked supporters for their encouragement over the past year and say they are looking forward to a busy and eventful 2026, continuing to perform for audiences across the county.

The Space Between: where land meets sea, water meets rock

THE WATERfRonT gALLERy at discovery Quay opens the new year with The Space between, a compelling joint exhibition by father-and-daughter artists david and cassia gomersall.

The exhibition launches on Saturday 17 January, with a public preview from 2:00pm–4:00pm. It will then run Wednesday to Saturday, 10:30am–4:00pm, until Saturday 14 February. Since 2005, David Gomersall’s

artistic practice has been shaped by the bays and headlands of the Marloes peninsula, including Marloes Sands, Albion, Musselwick and St Brides. His work begins with rapid sketches responding to the visual drama of water colliding with rock. Away from the shoreline, these impressions evolve

into abstract explorations in wood, stone, paint and dye—works that carry the memory of water moving around, over and through solid form. Though developed intuitively, each piece retains a strong echo of its coastal origin and a sense of the familiar.

The relentless motion of the sea— eroding softer material, opening fissures and caverns, and reshaping shattered stone—is mirrored in David’s processes. The carving and sanding of wood and stone, the rhythm of pencil marks, and the flow of batik wax all

echo the sea’s constant, shaping force. David studied three-dimensional design before completing an MA in Environmental and Architectural Design at the Royal College of Art. After working for architectural practices in London, he established his own studio in 1991. Since 1995, his projects have focused mainly in Pembrokeshire and Shropshire/Powys. His architectural work—and the many concept paintings produced over three decades for the late Zaha Hadid—centres on spatial relationships, movement and flow.

Cassia Gomersall is predominantly a textile-based artist, known for upcycled clothing and artworks created through fabric manipulation, silkscreen printing and natural dyeing. Her practice frequently incorporates recycled, scavenged or foraged materials. Rusted objects found along Pembrokeshire’s coastline are used to produce richly textured, rustdyed pieces that echo sea spray and saltwater corrosion. Her ink works are largely abstract, capturing moments where sea meets cliff and water meets mountain.

Together, David and Cassia Gomersall present a thoughtful, tactile dialogue between nature and material—exploring erosion, movement and transformation in works shaped as much by place as by process.

Council secures 21 affordable homes at Saundersfoot development

pEMbRoKESHIRE counTy councIL has secured twenty-one new affordable homes at the Sandy Hill development in Saundersfoot after cabinet approved entering into a contract with persimmon

Homes Ltd.

The homes will be delivered as part of the planning obligation for the Ger

y Môr development and transferred to the local authority for use as social housing.

The agreement covers a mix of properties, including twelve onebedroom flats, six two-bedroom houses and three three-bedroom homes. The wider site is already under construction, with a limited number of open-market homes expected to be completed during 2025 and 2026.

The Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Michelle Bateman said the deal would help address local housing need across the county.

She said: “We’re delighted to be going into partnership with Persimmon, taking on twenty-one new homes here at Ger y Môr and helping to deliver secure homes for local people in Pembrokeshire.

“The purchase of these properties as social housing is one of a range of affordable housing options we are offering to support families and

individuals with diverse housing needs. The homes at Ger y Môr reflect the Council’s commitment to providing affordable local housing and revitalising our communities.”

Local county councillor for Saundersfoot, Cllr Chris Williams, welcomed the agreement and praised engagement with the community. He said: “Persimmon has shown itself to be a genuinely local developer that has properly engaged with the Saundersfoot community on this development. It is hugely positive that the company will be helping people on the local housing waiting list by partnering with the Council through this agreement.”

Residents seeking further information can contact the Council’s Customer Liaison Team by email at housingCLO@pembrokeshire.gov. uk or by phone on 01437 764551. Updates are also shared via the Council’s Housing Facebook page.

Haverfordwest Oak Veterinary Surgery expansion approved

pLAnS to extend a pembrokeshire veterinary surgery which were previously refused have now been granted.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, IVC Evidensia, through agent Inspire Design Ltd, sought permission for an extension of the Oak Veterinary Surgery, Well Lane, Haverfordwest.

An earlier application was refused last September on the grounds officers considered there was insufficient information and evidence of foul drainage proposals submitted in support of the application to facilitate

the completion of an Appropriate Assessment in order to determine the impact on the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation and a lack of information about how the proposal could impact on protected species, namely bats.

Both applications raised no concerns from Haverfordwest Town Council.

An officer report recommending approval for the latest scheme said the plans are “of moderate scale

and appear as subservient in form to existing veterinary surgery,” adding: “The proposed alterations are of an acceptable design; the finish materials are deemed appropriate and appropriately match the existing.”

In went on to say the latest application was accompanied a detailed ecology survey which said “there was no evidence of bat emerging from the building on either survey, thus demonstrating sufficient evidence the proposed development will not pose a harmful impact on protected species”.

On the potential impact on the Marine SAC, the report said: “The

development is for the extension to existing veterinary practice.

“It is considered that as the existing toilets and proposed toilets and lab/ surgery rooms will be used in the main by local residents attending the local veterinary surgery for appointment already served by residential connections to existing public or private sewers discharging within the SAC catchment, the proposed development will not lead to an intensification in nutrient inputs to the SAC.”

The application was conditionally approved.

The alternative view By Mike Dello

LET me begin by saying that for those of you who noticed there was no Alternative view column for a couple of weeks, that was down to a misunderstanding over festive deadlines on my part.

Now, there is only one place to start — the astonishing events in Venezuela, which have stunned the world.

President Trump had been aggressively monitoring Venezuelan shipping amid long-standing concerns about drug trafficking linked to the brutal South American dictator Nicolás Maduro. Maduro appears to have been oblivious to just how serious the United States was. Then, on Saturday morning, after weeks of covert CIA operations, Donald Trump struck — launching an audacious and unprecedented operation to seize Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

The operation was bloodless for the Americans, though reports indicate that Cuban and Venezuelan troops were killed. The once powerful, oil-rich leader was whisked to New York to face charges of narco-terrorism, cocaine trafficking, and illegal firearms possession. By Monday morning, both Maduro and his wife had pleaded not guilty, with Maduro describing himself as “a good man”. In a bizarre twist, both he and Trump claimed to be

“running Venezuela”.

The trial is scheduled for March 17, and if convicted, Maduro could face life imprisonment.

This is not the first time America has removed a dictator from power — George Bush Snr removed General Noriega from Panama in 1989 — but nothing has ever been attempted on this scale or with such daring.

China and Russia were quick to condemn the move as illegal — rich coming from Vladimir Putin, given events in Ukraine over the past four years. China is particularly aggrieved due to its reliance on Venezuelan oil. Meanwhile, one of Maduro’s allies, Delcy Rodríguez — despite years of starvation and repression under the regime — has assumed control and is already making conciliatory noises towards Trump. Who can blame her?

Trump now appears determined to act as the world’s “bobby on the beat”, turning his attention to Colombia and, of all places, Greenland — which belongs to the Kingdom of Denmark and is, ironically, part of NATO. Would he really go that far? It remains to be seen whether this extraordinary intervention brings global stability or pushes us closer to the unthinkable.

Another brutal dictatorship, Iran, is also under pressure. Thousands

converting them. Labour will, as ever, blow taxpayers’ money on projects like this.

Sir Keir, who has a habit of welcoming the wrong sort of people into the UK, was at it again when he embraced Alaa Abdel Fattah — an Egyptian so-called human rights activist who has publicly called for the death of Zionists and police officers. Somehow he is now a British national. Even members of Starmer’s own party want him deported. This Prime Minister scores more own goals than Accrington Stanley.

Does anyone remember Burma? Now known as Myanmar, it is in the grip of a tyrannical military regime. Democracy has been strangled: 73% of opposition parties no longer exist, voting is effectively mandatory — provided you vote for the ruling Union Solidarity and Development Party — and ballot boxes are closely “guided”. A sobering reminder that while we may not like our government, at least we can still get rid of it. For now.

have taken to the streets across the country — not just in Tehran — with some calling for the return of the Shah’s son. But Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will undoubtedly have other ideas. Uprisings are nothing new in Iran, but their scale and spread make this another situation worth watching closely.

With that in mind, I thought I would rewind and highlight a few stories I would have covered.

Labour are never short of nannystate ideas. Their latest wheeze is a so-called war on misogyny, proposing that boys as young as eleven be “educated” on respect for women, with high-level offenders sent on residential courses. The government plans to spend £20 million on this scheme in the hope of halving misogyny within ten years.

Not content with lessons in toilet training and tooth brushing, Nanny Labour now believes it can socially engineer decency. Whatever happened to good old-fashioned parenting? And before anyone shouts “absent dads”, what an insult that is to the millions of single mothers who do a fantastic job.

Kemi Badenoch summed it up perfectly when she called it a silly gimmick — pointing out that millions in the UK come from cultures where women are viewed as second- or third-class citizens. Best of luck

More Starmer flip-flops slipped under the radar too. His appalling social-media “hate” laws were quietly relaxed — after cases such as a nine-year-old being investigated for saying someone “smelled of fish”. Farmers were also thrown a bone as inheritance-tax thresholds were adjusted.

The big freeze gripping the UK has sent the global-warming brigade scrambling for excuses. Ten degrees below freezing will no doubt be rebranded as “global warmonger”, but fear not — what we once called weather is now officially named Storm Goretti.

And finally, to cricket. Love it or loathe it, you’ll know by now that Australia crushed England yet again. A visitor once asked, “What is cricket?” The reply: “There are two teams, one’s in and one’s out. Then they swap. Sometimes you’re not out, sometimes you are, sometimes you come back in again.” No wonder they call it a Test.

After travelling 10,000 miles, the prize is a four-inch urn containing ashes. Legend has it that in 1883, after Australia beat England, a reporter declared English cricket dead and cremated. In truth, the ashes are from a burnt cricket bail — the small piece of wood atop the stumps.

Funny old game.

Seal pup who swam 120km in four days now recovering at RSPCA wildlife centre

A gREy seal pup who travelled an estimated 120 kilometres in just four days is now recovering at an RSpcA wildlife centre after being found dehydrated and underweight on the pembrokeshire coast.

The fully weaned pup was discovered on rocks at St Brides Bay on Wednesday (Dec 11) after being spotted looking thin and unwell. Wildlife officers later confirmed he had made the journey from Port Gaverne in north Cornwall.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer and Wildlife Officer Ellie West said she was immediately concerned when she arrived on scene.

“The pup was dehydrated and in a thin body condition, with obvious rolls of skin that should have been filled with fat and blubber,” she said.

“I also noticed marks on his back similar to the spray marks we use after assessing seals, so that we know we have seen them before if they come into care again.”

However, the colour of the markings did not match those normally used in west Wales, prompting Ellie to contact British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), who confirmed they had

days earlier on Saturday (Dec 7) at Port Gaverne. At that time he was borderline for intervention and was released back into the wild.

“With wildlife rehabilitation spaces at a real premium during seal season, he was given another chance without intervention.”

In the days that followed, the young seal swam almost in a straight line across the Bristol Channel, eventually reaching the Pembrokeshire coastline.

“This is a really long swim for a young pup,” Ellie said. “By the time he arrived here he had lost more weight, was dehydrated, passing very dark loose faeces, and had ulcers in his mouth.”

Ellie removed the seal from the beach and administered immediate care, including electrolyte fluids and fish, before transporting him to RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Taunton, Somerset.

At the centre, the seal was named Muse, in keeping with this year’s musicthemed naming convention. He is being cared for alongside other rescued seals including Elvis, found at Porthcawl, and Dido, rescued from Mwnt near Cardigan. BDMLR was also involved in the rescues of Elvis and Dido.

“I’m pleased to say Muse is doing really well,” Ellie said. “He is feeding well and gaining the weight he needs. I last saw him on December 27 and it was lovely to see how much he had improved.

“Our dedicated wildlife assistants, veterinary teams and volunteers work incredibly hard to get animals fully fit and ready for release back into the wild, where they belong.”

respiratory infection and completed a course of antibiotics,” he said. “Thanks to the work of Ellie’s team, he has self-fed the entire time he’s been with us.

“He weighed 16kg on admission and by Christmas Eve had reached 19kg. He is now in one of our larger indoor pens and will soon be paired with another seal.”

Seal pups can remain in care at West Hatch for several months. During seal season, which typically runs from September to March, the centre spends an average of £1,400 per week per seal on fish and veterinary care.

The RSPCA works in partnership with organisations including BDMLR to respond to seal welfare concerns and is reminding members of the public to keep their distance if they spot a seal on the beach.

“Seals are wild animals and can deliver a serious bite if they feel threatened,” Ellie said. “Dogs should always be kept on leads near seal colonies.”

She added that it is common for seal pups to be seen alone, as mothers often leave them while feeding at sea.

“If a pup looks healthy and shows no signs of distress, monitor it from a safe distance for 24 hours,” she said. “But if it appears injured, unwell, distressed, or is on a busy public beach, please call our emergency line on 0300 1234 999.”

Ellie also explained that in west Wales most seal sightings involve grey seals rather than common seals.

previously assessed the same seal.

Ellie said: “BDMLR confirmed the pup had been checked by volunteers four

RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Supervisor Ryan Walker said Muse arrived underweight but has responded well to treatment.

“Muse came in with a suspected

“If a pup still has a long white coat of fur, known as lanugo, it is likely still dependent on its mother,” she said. “Once they lose that coat, they are weaned and expected to fend for themselves, which is where many struggle and lose weight.”

More information on what to do if you find a seal or seal pup can be found on the RSPCA website.

Port delivers exceptional performance as three LNG vessels arrive within 12 hours

THE poRT of MILfoRd HAVEn says it has successfully welcomed three inbound Lng vessels within a 12-hour period, highlighting the operational efficiency and close collaboration across the Milford Haven Waterway.

During December 2025, the Vivirt City LNG, Asklipios and Orion Spirit berthed at South Hook LNG and Dragon LNG terminals in a complex operation requiring precise coordination between multiple partners.

The achievement was made possible through close working between tug and mooring gang provider Svitzer, shipping agents, terminal operators and the Port of Milford Haven’s marine team.

Each vessel carried around 170,000 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas and weighed approximately 90,000 deadweight tonnes, underlining the scale and logistical complexity of the operation.

The Harbourmaster at the Port of Milford Haven, Mike Ryan said:

“Handling three LNG vessels in the space of 12 hours is a testament to the strong working relationships we have built with our customers and service providers.

“Accommodating ships of this size requires meticulous planning and teamwork, and it was fantastic to see all parties collaborating to deliver such a positive outcome.

“Safety remained our top priority throughout the operation, ensuring every stage was carried out with the highest standards of precision and vigilance.”

Flat plans for former Haverfordwest Kings Arms pub

pLAnS to convert the basement of a grade-II-listed former pub in a pembrokeshire town’s conservation area to a flat have been submitted to the council.

In the application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Toyeb Ali Rahman, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, seeks permission to convert the basement of the former Kings Arms Hotel, Dew Street, Haverfordwest, the building most recently used as an Indian takeaway, to a residential flat.

A supporting statement says: “The Kings Arms Public House was a public house and was formerly a coaching house with a range of former stables to the rear which have been converted to dwellings. It is a mid-terrace property fronting the western side of Dew Street close to the town centre of Haverfordwest,” adding: “Since closure the public house has been used as a takeaway restaurant and is a mixture of flats and offices.”

It goes on to say: “The application proposal only involves a small-scale conversion of a basement storage area associated with the former Kings Arms Hotel to a one bedroom residential flat. There would be no extensions with the only external alteration to the building being the replacement of a poorly detailed metal roller shutter door with

on the locality. In fact, basement area is not at all visible from the street scene along Dew Street.”

any application in the vicinity of a listed building.

conventional domestic entrance door with sidelight.

“As such, there would be no change to the impact of the building or proposal

It stresses: “It is very clear from the listing description that the historic value of the building and the importance of the front array within the street scene is a major consideration when determining

“No alterations are planned for this and so it is deemed that no impact on the listed building is envisaged.”

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

Funding opens for Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme

up To £1.85 million in funding is now available to support Wales’ marine, fisheries and aquaculture sectors through the Welsh Marine and fisheries Scheme, the Welsh government has announced.

The scheme is designed to promote sustainable growth across the fisheries and aquaculture industry while helping coastal communities to prosper. The application window opens today (Wednesday, January 7) and will remain open for 12 weeks, closing on March 31.

A wide range of projects can be supported under 11 separate funding categories. Eligible activities include improving aquaculture sites, investing in equipment on vessels to reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency, and securing professional advice on issues such as environmental sustainability, business development and marketing.

Applicants may also seek funding for optional health and safety equipment on board vessels or at land-based sites.

In the previous funding round, grants were awarded for harbour infrastructure improvements, marine research projects, fishers’ health and wellbeing initiatives, and new processing equipment. Smaller items such as ice machines, ice flakers, weighing scales and cool boxes were also funded.

Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said the sector played a vital role in Wales’ economy and future food security.

“Our aquaculture, marine and fisheries sector brings many important benefits,” he said. “It provides a low carbon, high-quality protein food source, supports future food security, and delivers high-skilled jobs.

“This scheme is designed to create opportunities within the marine environment, coastal communities and sustainable seafood across the whole supply chain, from production to processing and marketing.

“I would encourage those with an interest to make use of the funding to pursue growth, diversification and innovation.”

Jim Evans MBE, of the Welsh Fishermen’s Association, said the scheme had already proved transformative.

“In the previous round, fishermen and women in Wales were able to access funding with free end-to-end guidance and support provided by the Wales Animateur Pilot,” he said. “The fund has been transformative

for individual fishermen, women and seafood businesses throughout Wales.

“There is already significant interest in future rounds, including vessel improvements, non-mandatory safety equipment, adding value, energy efficiencies and health, safety and wellbeing initiatives. I would

encourage all fishing, aquaculture and seafood businesses in Wales to contact the Animateurs for support with project and business ideas.”

Applicants must be registered with Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Online, where application and claims processes are managed.

Free, independent support is

available through the Welsh Fisheries Animateur Pilot, funded by the Welsh Government in collaboration with the Welsh Fishermen’s Association. Applicants can contact the Fisheries Animateur on 01736 362782, by text on 07864 087119, or by email at info@fishinganimateur.co.uk.

Roads and footpaths to close during live firing at ranges

A nuMbER of roads and coastal footpaths across pembrokeshire will be temporarily closed this month due to live firing exercises at military training ranges.

Live firing is scheduled to take place at Castlemartin on January 6–9, 12–16, 19–23 and 26–30. Additional night firing will also be carried out on January 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29.

Exercises are also planned at Manorbier between January 19 and 23. No night firing is scheduled at Manorbier.

As a result of the activity, several public routes will be closed at various times. The road between Bosherston and St Govan’s Chapel, along with the coastal footpath from St Govan’s Head to Broadhaven, will be shut on January 12–16, 19–23 and 26–30.

Stack Rocks Road, together with the connecting footpath to St Govan’s, will be closed on January 6–9, 12–16, 19–23 and 26–30. The Lower Warren area will also be inaccessible on January 6–9, 12–16 and 26–30.

Pembrokeshire County Council said access restrictions may change if there are alterations to the firing programme, with closures either lifted or extended as required.

Members of the public are being strongly advised not to touch any objects found on the range, nearby beaches or in the sea, as unexploded

ordnance may be present. Residents and visitors are also being warned to expect increased military vehicle movements on local roads

throughout January. Red flags flown during the day, and red warning lights at night, will indicate when the ranges are active and access is prohibited.

HundREdS of brave swimmers and many spectators packed north beach, Tenby, this morning for the town’s much-loved boxing day Swim, turning the seaside into a sea of colour, costumes and christmas cheer.

Despite the winter chill, participants of all ages charged into the water to loud cheers from the promenade, many dressed in eye-catching fancy dress ranging from festive favourites to proudly Welsh outfits. The atmosphere was electric, with laughter, applause and plenty of encouragement for those taking the plunge.

The event, organised by the Tenby Sea Swimming Association, once again proved why it is one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic festive traditions. Families, visitors and locals alike gathered early, wrapping up warm and enjoying the sense of community that has come to define the annual swim.

As always, safety was a priority, with RNLI volunteers and support crews on hand, and the event also raised money for local charities and good causes, adding a meaningful purpose to the fun.

For many, the Boxing Day Swim is the perfect way to shake off Christmas indulgence and mark the start of the festive week, while for others it’s a cherished tradition they return to year after year.

With smiles all round — and plenty of shivering swimmers quickly heading for towels and hot drinks — Tenby once again showed why its Boxing Day Swim remains a highlight of the local calendar.

(Pics: Gareth Davies/Herald)

SAundERSfooT welcomed in 2026 in spectacular fashion on Thursday (Jan 1) as thousands of swimmers and spectators gathered for the town’s famous new year’s day swim.

More than 3,000 swimmers took the plunge into the chilly waters off Saundersfoot Beach, with huge crowds lining the seafront to cheer them on. Many participants wore fancy dress, adding colour and humour to one of Pembrokeshire’s most popular New Year traditions.

Now marking its 40th year, the Saundersfoot swim has grown into the largest event of its kind in the UK, drawing visitors from across Wales and beyond. For many, it has become a firm New Year ritual — whether for charity, personal challenge, or simply to start the year with friends and family.

Despite the cold sea temperatures, spirits were high, with laughter and applause as swimmers ran into the Irish Sea before quickly retreating back to the beach to warm up.

The event was one of several New Year’s Day swims held across Pembrokeshire, highlighting the county’s strong community spirit and enduring connection to the sea.

Fronteifi Nature gets £180k to deliver sustainable tourism accommodation

A £180,000 loan from the development bank of Wales has helped bring a new eco-friendly tourism development to life overlooking the River Teifi in Cardigan.

Fronteifi Nature Lodges, created by husband-and-wife team Tim and Julia Percival, opened this autumn and offers high-quality, accessible and environmentally responsible accommodation designed to support the local visitor economy.

Having moved to Cardigan in January 2022, Tim, a retired architect, and Julia, who continues to work in social housing, set out to transform their 2.5acre site into a small-scale, nature-led destination inspired by the surrounding Teifi Marshes.

Following full planning consent in 2023, the couple developed two fivestar timber-framed lodges, alongside a garage with loft apartment, landscaped grounds, guest pathways and new drainage infrastructure. While most of the construction was self-funded, the £180,000 loan from the Development Bank’s Wales Tourism Fund supported completion of the Seren loft apartment and the final phase of hard landscaping and guest facilities.

The project has been delivered with a strong emphasis on sustainability and social value. Local tradespeople and specialist contractors were used throughout, while independent businesses from the surrounding area supplied furnishings, artwork, tree planting, ecological consultancy and

guest services.

A wide range of low-carbon technologies has been incorporated, including photovoltaic panels, EV charging points, air-source heat pumps, sheep’s wool insulation, ground-screw foundations, eco stoves and sedum (green) roofs. Materials from existing buildings on site were reused wherever possible, and more than 35 new trees have been planted to enhance biodiversity and carbon capture.

The development aligns with sustainable tourism priorities set by Ceredigion County Council and has also benefited from a £50,000 Cynnal y Cardi grant, supported through the Shared Prosperity Fund.

Accessibility has been central to the design. The Tir and Afon lodges offer level access throughout, step-free entrances, level-access showers, and clear orientation features for guests with mobility or visual needs. Wheelchairfriendly pathways lead to a riverside deck and a purpose-built bird hide, Bwthyn Adar, overlooking the Teifi and its wildlife.

Fronteifi Nature Lodges can accommodate up to 12 guests across the two lodges and the Seren loft apartment, targeting visitors seeking modern, luxurious and sustainable accommodation in west Wales.

Each lodge features open-plan living areas, adjustable beds, digital access, luxury bathrooms, outdoor kitchens, hot tubs and welcome hampers showcasing seasonal local produce. The business also holds fishing rights on the Teifi and is listed with Canopy and Stars, connecting the site to audiences seeking high-end, nature-focused stays.

Julia Percival, co-founder of Fronteifi Nature Lodges, said: “The support from the Development Bank has enabled us to complete the final phase of the project while staying true to our environmental and community principles. We’re proud to have worked with so many local businesses and to offer guests the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Teifi Valley.”

David Knight, investment executive at the Development Bank of Wales, added: “Fronteifi Nature Lodges is a great example of a locally driven tourism project that combines sustainability, accessibility and community benefit. It aligns closely with the aims of the Wales Tourism Fund in supporting distinctive, high-quality destinations across Wales.”

The Wales Tourism Investment Fund is a £50 million fund, financed by the Welsh Government, offering loans between £100,000 and £5 million to support standout tourism projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability and a commitment to the Economic Contract.

Two nights of ABBA hits coming to the Torch Theatre

IT is fifty years since AbbA’s landmark album Arrival lit up the charts, and fans will soon have the chance to relive the magic when Arrival – The Hits of AbbA comes to the Torch Theatre this January.

The internationally acclaimed tribute show arrives in Milford Haven with a brand-new, immersive production, promising audiences a chance to sing, dance and celebrate the timeless music that helped define pop history.

Featuring songs from the iconic Arrival album alongside other ABBA favourites, the show combines interactive lyric projection, dazzling costumes and powerful vocals to recreate the unmistakable sound and energy of the Swedish supergroup.

Voted Best ABBA Show and Most Authentic ABBA Show of 2024, and crowned the No.1 International AwardWinning Tribute, the production has been wowing audiences across

the world. Since the tour began, rave reviews have followed its performances from India to the USA.

The Stage described the show as “Simply the best ABBA show”, while Hong Kong Stadium hailed it as “The best ABBA show since ABBA”. Vice Magazine added: “The finest tribute act in the UK.”

Arrival – The Hits of ABBA will be on the Torch Theatre stage for two nights only, on Wednesday 21 January and Thursday 22 January, both starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are priced at £26 and can be booked online at torchtheatre. co.uk or via the Box Office on 01646 695267.

gaming

Code Violet on PS5 is shaping up to be one of those polarising upcoming releases that blends ambitious ideas with a fair bit of skepticism from the community. At its core, Code Violet throws you into a gritty third-person action horror experience set in the 25th century where humanity, driven from Earth, now clings to survival on a distant world called Trappist 1-E. You play as Violet Sinclair, a woman snatched from the past by a powerful colony known as Aion that uses time-travel to abduct women in a desperate push to save mankind from extinction. From the Aion Bioengineering Complex you must fight, sneak and puzzle your way through environments overrun by prehistoric dinosaurs and hostile forces, managing scarce resources and unraveling the dark conspiracies that lie at the heart of the colony’s plans. The game leans hard on survival

tension and strategic inventory pressure, forcing you to balance healing supplies, weapons and tools as every encounter can quickly turn deadly, and promises to mix melee and ranged combat with stealth, environmental puzzles, and tense chases that evoke echoes of classic genre inspirations.

Visually, Code Violet aims high with ray-traced lighting and Unreal Engine’s Megalights tech casting eerie shadows across neon-lit labs and overgrown jungles, while Sony’s 3D audio and the PS5 DualSense adaptive triggers and haptic feedback are touted as key ingredients in building an immersive, panic-driven atmosphere where every rustle could signal a stalking predator. The inclusion of a story with conspiratorial twists, layered with thematic explorations of scientific hubris and survival, suggests a narrative ambition

that goes beyond simple dinosaur thrills. In addition to the core campaign, the game will launch with a photo mode so players can capture dramatic moments without waiting for a post-launch update.

Yet despite the promise, there’s a notable undercurrent of doubt around the title. The developer’s previous work has received a mixed reputation, and online chatter around trailers and early gameplay impressions often highlights stiff animations, awkward movement, or amateurish polish. Multiple delays shifted the release into January 2026 as the team worked through certification challenges and reconfigured editions, with all deluxe extras folded into a single standard version that ships with bonus outfits and items included. The decision not to bring Code Violet to PC — ostensibly to prevent inappropriate mods — has also sparked debate and raised eyebrows about priorities and design decisions.

For fans of survival horror and dinosaur-centric action, Code Violet presents a tantalising mix of high-concept sci-fi narrative, atmospheric tension, and tactile PS5 hardware features. But the true measure of its quality will only become clear once the wider player base gets hands on it and weighs whether its mechanics and execution live up to that ambition or fall short of the hype

gIAnT, the muchanticipated biographical sports drama starring pierce brosnan opposite Amir ElMasry, doesn’t simply step into the crowded arena of boxing films — it arrives with a quiet assurance and an emotional weight that quickly sets it apart. Inspired by the extraordinary rise of britishyemeni featherweight legend prince naseem “naz” Hamed, the film traces his journey from the tough streets of Sheffield to the glare of international fame, but it never settles for being just a catalogue of victories and belts. Instead, it places its emotional centre firmly in the evolving relationship between naz and his Irish trainer brendan Ingle, played by brosnan with a gentle, weathered warmth that feels deeply lived-in. Their bond begins as one of mutual necessity and shared belief, but as naz’s talent explodes into superstardom, the film carefully explores how pride, cultural tension, public pressure and personal expectation begin to strain what was once an unshakable partnership.

El-Masry delivers a performance that crackles with energy and vulnerability, capturing Naz’s magnetic swagger, playful bravado and underlying insecurity in equal measure. He embodies the showman who thrived on spectacle, yet the film never loses sight of the young man beneath the flash, constantly navigating racism, family loyalty and the burden of being both a community hero and a commercial phenomenon. Brosnan, in contrast, is all restraint and quiet gravity, allowing small glances, hesitant pauses and soft humour to communicate volumes about a man who sees his protégé becoming larger than the world he tried to prepare him for. Their scenes together carry the film’s emotional heft, turning training sessions and locker-room conversations into moments of genuine intimacy and unspoken conflict.

Visually, GIANT favours grounded realism over glossy spectacle, with wide industrial backdrops and muted lighting that root the story firmly in its

working-class origins. When the film does step into the ring, the fights feel raw and immediate rather than overly stylised, keeping the audience locked into Naz’s perspective — his breath, his nerves, his exhilaration — rather than treating the bouts as distant set pieces. The pacing allows triumphs to feel earned and losses to sting, and the score supports the emotional arc with subtlety rather than bombast, reinforcing the film’s reflective tone.

By the time GIANT reaches its closing moments, it feels less like a conventional sports biopic and more like a thoughtful meditation on ambition, identity and the fragile nature of mentorship. It leaves you considering not only what it takes to become a champion, but what can be lost along the way when success grows faster than the relationships that once sustained it. The film’s real power lies in this emotional resonance, lingering long after the final bell has sounded, and positioning GIANT as a moving, mature and quietly affecting addition to the boxing-movie canon.

Tech and Taff

When Lego starts thinking for you

noW then, pull up a chair and pour yourself a nice cup of something strong, because Lego has gone and done a very modern thing.

It’s unveiled something called “Smart Bricks” — Lego blocks with lights, sounds, sensors and more computing power than the first computer I ever taught on in Cardiff.

Yes, Lego. The very bricks that for generations have sat quietly on living-room carpets waiting to be transformed into castles, spaceships, sheep, or something vaguely resembling a tractor if you squint hard enough — are now reacting, flashing and making noises all by themselves.

Lego says this is its most revolutionary idea in nearly 50 years. Announced at the glitzy Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, these Smart Bricks can sense movement, distance and position, and respond with sound and light. Blow out Lego candles — it sings. Crash a Lego helicopter — it flashes red and makes a dramatic noise. Frankly, I half expect one to shout “careful now” in a minute.

And look, as a professor of technology, I’m not allergic to innovation. I like a good sensor as much as the next person — possibly more. But even I felt a small pang of concern here, and it turns out I’m not alone.

Some play experts are worried that all this cleverness might miss the point. Lego has always been brilliant precisely because it doesn’t tell children what to think or imagine. A brick is a brick — until a child decides it’s a dragon, a bus, or a very important bit of cheese.

Josh Golin from the children’s group Fairplay put it rather well, saying Lego never needed sound effects because children already provide them themselves. Anyone who’s heard a five-year-old making “whoooosh”, “bang”, and “nee-naw” noises at full volume will know exactly what he means.

Professor Andrew Manches

from the University of Edinburgh also pointed out that the magic of Lego lies in its freedom — the endless re-creating and adapting powered entirely by imagination.

And as a Welshman, I’ll add this: we’ve always been very good at making a lot out of very little. Give us a few bricks and we’ll build a whole story.

To be fair, Lego insists it’s not replacing imagination, just nudging it along. Its bosses say they don’t see the digital world as a threat, but as something that can expand physical play. The Smart Bricks are meant to react to what children already do, not boss them about.

Technically speaking, they’re impressive. Each Smart Brick is a standard 2x4 size, packed with sensors, lights, a tiny sound system, and a custom chip. Used alongside Smart Minifigures and Smart Tags, the pieces talk to each other wirelessly to create different effects. It’s clever stuff — there’s no denying that.

But — and there’s always a “but” — we also need to tread carefully. As smart toys become more common, questions about privacy, security and over-digitisation creep in. Not everything a child owns needs to beep, blink, or collect data. Sometimes, a quiet brick and a noisy imagination are more than enough.

Lego has experimented with digital play before — augmented reality apps, video game tieins, even a Super Mario figure with a tiny screen — so this isn’t entirely out of character. Its chief executive has already said digital tech is now a strategic priority for the company.

The question, mind, isn’t whether Lego can make bricks smarter. Clearly it can. The question is whether childhood really needs them to be.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve just stepped on a Lego brick — and I can confirm, with great certainty, that it does not need any additional features to make an impact.

Charming, cheeky and cunning: Awardwinning Hamlet comes to the Torch screen

oLIVIERo Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera, best known for his acclaimed performance in Life of pi, takes on the title role in Hamlet as national Theatre Live brings its fearless and contemporary reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic to the Torch Theatre screen this January.

Directed by National Theatre

Deputy Artistic Director Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat), the production has been awarded five stars by Broadway World and praised for breathing fresh life into a play written more than 400 years ago, yet still strikingly relevant today.

Trapped between duty and doubt, and surrounded by power and privilege, Prince Hamlet grapples with grief, revenge and the ultimate question that has echoed through centuries of theatre. Hastie’s sharp, stylish and darkly funny interpretation places the troubled young prince firmly in the modern world,

without losing the depth and complexity that has made the play endure.

Reviewers have been quick to praise the production, with Broadway World describing it as “exactly the kind of Hamlet you would hope to see,” while Upcoming hailed Abeysekera’s performance as “charming, cheeky and cunning.”

With its intricate plot, richly drawn characters and a lead performance that balances wit with emotional intensity, NT Live: Hamlet is a must-see for Shakespeare fans and newcomers alike.

NT Live: Hamlet will be screened at the Torch Theatre on Thursday 29 January at 7:00pm.

Tickets are priced at £15, £13 concessions, £10 under 26, and £8.50 concessions under 26.

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

HOROSCOPES

fallout Season 2 on prime Video continues to prove that the post-apocalyptic wasteland is an unexpectedly rich setting for emotional depth, dark humour and pulp sci‑fi spectacle rolled into one, picking up after the dramatic events of the first season with Lucy and The ghoul on the road to the neon ruins of new Vegas in search of her father and answers in a world gone mad. premiering mid-december 2025 with new episodes dropping weekly through to early february 2026, this season slows the binge culture pace in favour of anticipation and speculation, and that choice pays off as each chapter feels like a distinct bump in the adventure rather than filler between set pieces, giving fans time to

savour the grit, the laughs and the occasional heartfelt character beat amid the desert dust and irradiated ruins. The showrunners expand the scope significantly this season, introducing new characters and factions drawn from the beloved video game lore, and the inclusion of familiar faces alongside intriguing newcomers adds layers to the political and moral conflicts of a world struggling to rebuild or simply survive amidst brutality and desire for power.

What makes Season 2 stand out is its confident blend of cinematic world-building and grounded relationships: the unlikely partnership between Lucy and The ghoul remains a core emotional anchor, and their uneasy trust growing

into a kind of kinship gives the sprawling narrative a human centre even when the stakes are grotesque and the scenery is blasted wasteland. Visually the show continues to impress, with rugged landscapes, detailed costume and production design that feels lovingly rooted in the dnA of the fallout games while carving its own identity, making each new locale from roadside shantytowns to the glittering yet decayed casinos of new Vegas feel alive with possibility and danger. The weekly release rhythm also helps build a communal watching experience, encouraging discussion around plot twists, faction motives and character choices that might have been lost in a single-day drop. While at times the pacing wavers as the series balances set up for future conflicts with delivering immediate payoff, overall fallout Season 2 deepens the mythology and delivers enough inventive action, dark humour and emotional texture to satisfy both fans of the franchise and newcomers drawn to its uniquely bleak yet compelling vision of a future that never quite went right.

That higher-up who seems to have it in for you? The one who seems to have you constantly under a microscope? You may be right about them, that they’re watching you carefully, but their reasons are probably a lot less devious than you’d initially imagined. You have a knack for dealing with people, and that’s one of the things they’ve been paying attention to. You’ll soon find out why, and when the truth emerges the news will all be good.

VIRGO

An authority figure could be difficult for you to stand today, but don’t say anything that could cause friction with them. If you’re upset or angry, give your temper some time to cool off before you interact with them. You don’t want to leave a bad impression, and they aren’t likely to forget if you do. Make sure you’re on their good list. Try to avoid impetuousness at all costs today. The more slowly you go, the better place you’ll end up in.

LIBRA

Just when you thought it might be safe to come out and the intrigue of the past few days was over, you’ve just discovered that it’s not. Fortunately, the secrecy is over. The Universe seems to have decided to not only take your side and coax you out of the darkness, but to also bring you right out into the open. You can thank the stars for that, bringing out all the depth, intensity, and intimacy in every one of your relationships.

SCORPIO

Whatever you’ve got on your mind and in your heart now is exactly what you’ll be showing to the world. There’s just no way around it. That goes double when it comes to your interactions with coworkers or anyone else you have daily interactions with. You may end up communicating with them in a surprising fashion, but then there’s nothing like surprises to inspire that creative push we all need, so it’s an absolute given that no one will mind. Besides, if anyone can be creative when they’re under a tight deadline, it’s you. Absolutely.

SAGITTARIUS

An intense situation that comes up at work could lead you to wonder if you ought to say what you know, or whether you should just keep quiet, and honestly, isn’t that always your personal dilemma? Think about what might happen once the truth is revealed. It always comes out anyway, but your mission now is to decide whether you want to be the instrument or the performer. Either way, prepare to shine.

CAPRICORN

You’re famous for your ability to sense something brewing, especially in a business sense, well before it’s begun to brew. In this case, with the heavens putting out all kinds of perceptive energies, your intuition is definitely running on high. Some of the things you’re picking up are downright uncanny, as a matter of fact. You might freak some people out!

AQUARIUS

In a quick about-face from recent days, your energy today should be less self-obsessed. Put yourself in the service of others right now, and you’ll find strength and credibility. Helping people solve problems is important. Your perspective and logic will save someone else a lot of time, and they have a generous nature you might not know

PISCES

Badger and the Footsteps of a Giant

In the years since badger first left his burrow and began tapping at his keyboard, he always found it amusing that some of pembrokeshire’s less observant county councillors thought he was Mike Stoddart.

Badger considered it a backhanded compliment. When he spoke with Old Grumpy, he was bemused, too. It is safe to say that confusing Badger and Mike Stoddart, in person or in prose, is nearly impossible.

Mike Stoddart’s canvas was Pembrokeshire County Council. No detail, no matter how small, or factoid hidden in committee papers escaped him. He could use any of these to illustrate how the local authority conducted its business with public money. That was, as far as Badger could tell, what motivated Mike Stoddart. Too many people regard councillors as corrupt, selfseeking, and greedy. Mike Stoddart was ever alert to abuses of power. He was most interested in how the Council spent the money it received from different funding streams and raised from Council Tax payers.

Broad-brush claims were never Old Grumpy’s style. The devil was always in the details, and his prose illuminated those details, letting them speak for themselves.

Badger did not always agree with Mike Stoddart’s conclusions. When Old Grumpy disagreed with Badger, he always let him know. Still, Badger saw Mike Stoddart applying the level of scrutiny to council spending that every councillor should. Too many councillors see spending as if it were a deep ideological battle for Pembrokeshire’s soul. Mike Stoddart’s approach was more forensic and nuanced: Was the spending justified? Did the amount represent value for money?

Some of Old Grumpy’s

bugbears achieved legendary status: John Cwmbetws Davies’s humble farmworker’s dwelling for a herdsman for a non-existent herd.

Brian Hall’s use of a TARDIS on Council business. Ken Rowlands’s willingness to turn up at the opening of an envelope for a photo op. And, Badger’s favourite, Huw George’s ode to tarmac and the power of positive politics.

Mike Stoddart’s reporting about the above put a spotlight on how the IPG, then the dominant force in the Council Chamber, scratched each other’s backs, nursed each other’s egos, and silenced debate. And all very interesting and titillating it was, too. However, when he got into the details of how the IPG administration blew millions of public money on schemes of dubious value and even

more dubious probity, Old Grumpy hit high gear.

The money the Council spent to help Oakwood, the money for local small enterprises, it handed to LNG and a luxury hotel, misspent and misallocated, town centre regeneration schemes, the casual way the local authority handled grant schemes and European funding. They all showed Mike Stoddart at his best and most fearless.

There were times when it seemed as though Mike Stoddart was a lone voice crying in the wilderness.

And then...

To say things unravelled at County Hall would be an understatement.

In Badger’s recollection, it began with a ten-line report in the Western Telegraph noting that Cllr Mike Williams had drawn attention to the number of grants in a funding scheme being directed towards one developer. This was before The Pembrokeshire Herald was a fever dream in a demented editor’s mind. This was back in 2011, when Badger wrote for Pembrokeshire’s Best Magazine.

Needless to say, it turned out that Old Grumpy was also digging into the story. It turned out that companies connected to one developer, Cathal McCosker, had cornered the market in Pembroke Dock’s Town Regeneration Scheme. Mike Stoddart relentlessly chipped away at the scheme’s internal workings. Meanwhile, Badger found a web of companies Mr McCosker used to get his mitts on the grant money. The key point was that the European money was supposed to go towards regenerating commercial activity in Pembroke Dock’s run-down town centre. Instead, most of the money was spent building bedsits over former commercial premises.

Mike Stoddart’s suspicions were aroused when he started looking

at work that had supposedly been done on the roofs of buildings. An Audit Committee meeting took place out and about in Pembroke Dock. To the surprise of nobody, the visit turned up extensive evidence of graft. A former chemist’s shop in Dimond Street had supposedly been refitted by scratch. Badger pointed out to Mike Stoddart that the racking on the walls, which was there when Badger was a cub, had been painted over, and that the same applied to several other fittings.

Meanwhile, the then Cabinet member for Housing, David Simpson, took Old Grumpy to one side and led him into another room. They stared up at the ceiling. They looked at the bill of quantities. They stared up at the ceiling again. A council officer was summoned. He looked at the bill of quantities. He stared up at the ceiling. A short conversation followed.

It is always useful to sign off after you’ve inspected the building works to ensure they’ve been completed. The hole in the ceiling that David Simpson found, which he and Mike Stoddart discussed, allowed them to see through the void to the floor of the bedsit above. What was absent was all of the fireproofing and other work supposedly done to justify a claim for public money.

A subsequent Audit Committee

meeting led to an opening of the scheme’s books. Very few councillors bothered to look at them. Mike Stoddart did, so did Jacob Williams and David Simpson. To even the meanest intellect, and all three were far smarter than that, it was obvious that corruption and incompetence were involved alongside a stupefying level of criminal complicity by council officers. Information provided to councillors had been deliberately misleading, and meeting minutes had been tampered with by a senior officer to make it appear that compliance checks had taken place when they hadn’t. At least one officer, later allowed to retire rather than be arrested, lied directly to two very senior officers about what he knew.

Then, when the Police got involved, they were run ragged by an officer apparatus, supported by IPG councillors, that moved heaven and earth to obscure the truth. A laptop carrying essential information was “lost”. Council officers spent hours concealing their incompetence rather than providing timely evidence to an ongoing investigation. An internal investigation, predictably, whitewashed officers’ actions but did not touch upon how gross and persistent failures were allowed to continue for so long. The answer

uselessness attracted.

- as ever - was that officers cared more about dotting i’s and crossing t’s than critically considering the evidence of their own eyes.

The affair metastasised and became a cancer on the entire 2012-2017 administration. Attempts to stop the flow of questions failed miserably. Bryn Parry Jones was paid off after his position became untenable. Efforts to ignore the scandal of how Children’s Services employed a paedophile despite a whistleblower’s actions, rumbled on and became a question of who knew what and when, and why a report into the affair remained under wraps.

And through it all, Mike Stoddart ground on in the face of abuse from councillors not fit to lace his shoes. John Allen-Mirehouse said Mike Stoddart didn’t care for the truth and imputed malign motives to him. David Pugh laughably referred to a non-existent side elevation of a terraced property. Jamie Adams had inspected the roof at Pembroke Dock’s former Coronation School and could testify that the work claimed to have been done had been done. It hadn’t.

Mike Stoddart ran rings around all of them. The spluttering officers, whose efforts he exposed to public ridicule, took to crying foul at the richly-deserved scrutiny their

A change of administration did not defang Old Grumpy. With his loathed IPG out of power, he continued to scrutinise, criticise, and hold the new administration to account. He continued to ask difficult questions, especially about how the local authority set its rents, and, as he had for over twenty years, continued to question the basis on which the Council set its annual budget.

Mike Stoddart would not be pushed, pulled, or bullied. Once he decided he was right, nothing could shake him. He never sought followers in the Chamber. He never sought leadership. He treasured independence and publicly scorned those who pretended to it. He could be bloody hard work, but Badger always knew that Grumpy had done the legwork and reading before offering his opinion.

Unlike the gobshites on social media, he never fell into contrarian nihilism. The purpose of opposition, Old Grumpy said, was to oppose. But that did not mean opposing everything for the sake of it. He shone a harsh spotlight into corners that needed illumination. Badger thinks Mike Stoddart would be disappointed if his efforts to educate and inform the public became synonymous with rank cynicism. That would make a mockery of Old Grumpy’s quest for the truth and his long career of public service.

At a time when instant outrage and knee-jerk responses have replaced consistent ideals, Old Grumpy remained, above all, an idealist. An unusual and singular type of idealist, but an idealist nonetheless.

Mike Stoddart believed in public service. He devoted his life to it. He believed in honour and the importance of honesty and plainspeaking. He was still arguing his point of view, almost right to the end. He was unstoppable. And now, he has stopped.

Badger will miss Mike. Pembrokeshire will miss Mike. Even his adversaries will miss Mike, despite his 20-20 prose never missing them. However, Mike Stoddart’s family and close friends will miss him more. And it is to them, and to Old Grumpy’s memory, that Badger dedicates this column.

A personal tribute to Mike Stoddart a Pembrokeshire Pers P ective

by editor tom sinclair

MIKE SToddART was a very good friend of my late father, and fellow councillor Tom Sinclair, and they served together over many years on both Milford Haven Town council and pembrokeshire county council. They spoke often, shared a deep interest in local government, and had a mutual respect that went well beyond politics.

As a child, Mike and his wife Vivien were familiar visitors to our home, most often at our New Year’s Eve dinner parties. They were usually formal affairs that ran late, fuelled by conversation, red wine and laughter. I have vivid memories of council “bun fights” at the table, with Mike and my dad good-naturedly battling it out over the red wine. Both enjoyed a drink, and both enjoyed a cigarette just as much. I stuck to the mince pies.

I was around twelve or thirteen the first time Mike persuaded me to have a puff of a cigar, shortly before completely trashing me at chess. My

excuse for being allowed to stay up so late was always that I was “helping with the washing up” - despite the fact we already had a dishwasher.

When the time came for work experience, my very first placement was a week at the Milford & West Wales Mercury. At the time, I had no idea that I would one day become a journalist myself, but there is no doubt that it left a lasting impression.

The newsroom was a world away from today’s digital environment. It was scissors and glue, Letraset headlines and paper everywherepiles of it - and nowhere more so than in Mike’s office. He worked extraordinary hours. His room was often walled off from the rest of the building, no doubt helped by the constant haze of cigarette smoke. He put a huge amount of himself into the paper.

I remember running errands to the shop for milk and supplies, passing the Mercury office on Fulke Street

in Solva where my grandparents lived, and later my mother and stepfather. When I mentioned Bryn Seion in Solva to him early last year, he joked: “Good God - are they still standing?”

From the earliest days of The Pembrokeshire Herald, Mike was always critical, but fair.

That mattered. It is important to have someone to talk to who truly understands both the newsroom and the inner workings of local government. Mike had deep knowledge of Pembrokeshire County Council, and a relentless determination to pursue the truth when things didn’t add up. His dogged pursuit of accountability - including his involvement in issues such as the Pembroke Dock grants scandal, which we later picked up and continued to investigate over many years - stands as testament to his commitment to doing what he believed was right for the community.

The fact that Mike was re-elected to his council seat so many times speaks volumes. People in Hakin and Milford Haven saw him as someone who got things done, someone who cared deeply, and someone who was prepared to stand his ground.

and often spotting Mike late in the evening, still hard at work. The office was in the basement, so as we walked along the steep hill we were looking down at him through the window. If he had ever turned around, all he would have seen was my feet walking past the window. There he would be, cigarette in hand, pencil behind his ear, completely absorbed.

Funny how life works out. I always looked up to Mike, and years later I found myself studying at the same university he had attended. Keele was where, if memory serves me right, Mike and Vivien first met - I believe at the Sneyd Arms. Funny enough, it was also at Keele that I met my soonto-be wife.

Mike once told me that when he was studying there, they were based in Nissen huts. I said some of them were still standing. He laughed and said he wasn’t surprised.

Before journalism, Mike was a builder, and he actually built the house

On a lighter note, my first van - the first I ever owned - was bought from Mike. It was the old Mercury delivery van, later repurposed as The Evolution Experience mobile when I was running dance events. True to form, it wasn’t long before the electrics caught fire, but thanks to the quick thinking of a mechanically minded friend we managed to save her. Typical Mikeeverything had a story, and everything deserved a second life.

Known for the odd glass of red wine, his formidable vegetablegrowing skills at home, and a sharp, often mischievous sense of humour, Mike Stoddart will be remembered as a true local character - a man who made a real difference.

I will always have fond memories of him, and I have no doubt that he played a pivotal role in giving me the inspiration and confidence to start The Pembrokeshire Herald.

A great man indeed.

There’s a storm coming over the Senedd

I’VE been around long enough to know when the wind changes. you feel it before you see it. The chips blow the wrong way. The boats creak different.

The humans stop pretending everything’s “fine, actually”.

And trust me, squawk squawk, there’s a proper gust building over Cardiff Bay.

They keep telling us nothing ever changes in Wales. Same faces, same promises, same recycled slogans printed on slightly glossier leaflets every four years. Labour here forever, like seagull droppings on a council bench — scraped off, painted over, then back again by Monday morning.

But I’ve seen this before. Right before a trawler snaps its ropes, the water goes strangely calm. The sky looks harmless. That’s when the smart gulls move inland and the stupid ones keep shouting at the sea.

Plaid are circling higher than they’ve ever flown before. For once, they don’t look like a protest flock

flapping about for scraps — they look like a crew that’s actually read the chart. Proper plans. Proper ideas. Long-term thinking. Not just shouting “independence” and hoping nobody asks “yes, but who pays for the diesel?”

Even I’ll give them that. And I don’t give compliments lightly. Ask anyone who’s dropped a pasty near Pier Road and watched me claim it under maritime law.

Labour, meanwhile, are fighting like gulls trapped in a crisp packet. Lots of noise, lots of pecking, wings everywhere, no idea who’s steering the ship. One minute it’s Cardiff saying one thing, London saying another, and the voters watching the whole lot like it’s a car crash outside Tesco — slowing down to stare, but not liking what they see.

I’ve nicked chips off fishermen with more coordination.

Some Labour types are already eyeing the exits, others are pretending it’ll all blow over, and a few still think they’ll be “needed” no

matter what. That sort of thinking is how you end up standing alone on the quay wondering where everyone’s gone.

And then there are the Greens. The flock that spent years being politely ignored while everyone laughed at louder squawkers. Younger gulls. More energy. Less attachment to the old bins. They don’t smell like the establishment yet, which helps. And when people vote Green now, it’s not always about trees — it’s about telling the people in charge that the patience has gone.

Now, Reform. Don’t make the mistake of laughing.

I’ve seen plenty of storms started by one loud gull that suddenly turned into a flock once the wind caught it right. The anger driving Reform isn’t fringe anymore — it’s blowing straight through old Labour wards and disillusioned Tory territory alike. Call it protest, call it populism, call it a warning shout from the quay — when a movement hits around thirty per cent, it stops being noise and

starts being force. Still light on crew, still heavy on volume, but now strong enough to shove the whole harbour sideways.

And if you think those voters won’t swing hard again if nobody listens, you haven’t been watching the tide properly.

The Conservatives are hunkered down like a gull sheltering in a storm drain, hoping nobody notices them until the weather clears. The Lib Dems? I think they live in Powys now. Lovely place. Quiet. You don’t hear much from them, which is probably the problem.

Here’s the thing the humans still haven’t clocked: under the new voting system, you don’t need a tidal wave. A decent swell will do. A few hundred votes here, a few there — suddenly seats flip like overturned bins after a Friday night in town.

That’s how storms work. Not with one big bang, but with pressure building where nobody’s looking. You ignore it because it’s inconvenient, then suddenly you’re soaked.

And if Plaid and the Greens pull one way, and Reform pulls just as hard from the other, Labour might find itself exactly where it’s never had to be before — right in the middle, wondering when the weather stopped obeying them.

I’m not saying it’ll be perfect. I’ve never seen a perfect government. Or a perfect chip. But I do know this: when the wind changes, the gulls that adapt eat well. The ones that pretend nothing’s happening end up cold, wet, and shouting at nobody.

So keep your eyes on the water, Wales.

Tie your ropes properly.

Don’t ignore that whistling over the Senedd roof.

That’s not just the wind.

That’s pressure — coming in from both sides of the bay.

And this time, squawk squawk, it feels strong enough to move things.

BADGER AND A TIME FOR CHANGE

IN recent years, Badger has sensed a pivotal shift: old certainties are crumbling, not ending the world, but marking an inflexion point. Politics, culture, and civic society are unsettled, caught between declining traditions and the struggle to define what comes next. The core uncertainty lies in what this emerging ‘new’ will be.

To illustrate how such transitional moments unfold, consider 1979, when Bernard Donoghue, then head of Number 10’s Policy Research Unit, was travelling in a limousine with PM James Callaghan. Donoghue remarked that Callaghan had reasons to be confident about the future.

Callaghan, who was far shrewder than most, replied: “There are times, perhaps once every 30 years, when there is a sea change in politics. It then does not matter what you say or what you do. There is a shift in what the public wants and what it approves of. I suspect that there is now such a sea change – and it is for Mrs Thatcher.”

Callaghan’s central point is correct. Expectations change. Society changes with them. When society changes, so does the political ecosystem. If not, the state’s functions no longer meet people’s needs, and discontent grows. The greater the disconnect, the more public anger rises.

Reflecting on these shifts seems especially fitting as we approach a New Year. It is a time when the usual rules don’t necessarily apply. People accept miracles and secretly wish for them.

Humans are peculiar. Despite history, each New Year’s Day brings hope for a better year. Yet expected, unexpected, and avoidable events intervene.

It is often said that the gap between the governed and governments has widened. Badger challenges this generalisation but makes his main argument explicit: in one crucial respect, parliamentarians are more distant than ever from the electorate, struggling to understand and represent genuine public concerns.

This divide is not just party political or dictated by old class lines. Rather, as communication channels multiply and people engage with information differently, politicians in Western democracies struggle to grasp and articulate public sentiment. This communication failure deepens the disconnect at the heart of Badger’s argument.

While the better-educated, better-off politicians of the past held public sentiment in low regard, they never lost sight of the need to feed their social inferiors with occasional red meat. Senior politicians were particularly cynical about the need to tend to the needs of what, in later years, became “white man van”. In 1964, Harold Wilson, the most brilliant and cynical of politicians, faced a tight General Election. He was concerned that Labour voters might not turn

out because of a screening of Steptoe and Son just before the polls closed. With only two channels, millions of votes were at stake. When asked what he would rather be broadcast, he replied, “Aeschylus.

In the original.”

Aeschylus was not broadcast, but neither was Steptoe and Son. Labour squeaked home.

This leads to an important distinction. Wilson and politicians of his age or class, such as Heath, Thatcher, Callaghan, and Major, had an instinctive connection with people in the growing, aspiring skilled working and aspiring middle classes. By contrast, Blair, Brown, Cameron, May, Johnson (despite the cosplaying), Truss, and Sunak did not. Starmer is in the latter tradition.

Prime Ministers since 1997 align more with Balfour and Asquith than with their immediate predecessors. The key divide is not wealth, but cultural connection. Despite Major’s background, metropolitanism is increasingly dominant.

If you live in a nice house, on a nice street, have a nice job in a big city, it’s easy to ignore life outside your bubble. You can afford obsessions with “causes” and “issues.” As power centralises in cities and the media wanes, politicians’ worldviews grow shallow.

Badger recently heard this referred to as “The

Stakeholder State”: a coalition of campaign groups, regulators, politicised civil servants, trade bodies, and well-connected organisations. It links government with NGOs, activists, celebrity campaigns, singleissue groups, and self-absorbed broadcast media.

Badger made a note of a comment about “The Stakeholder State” as being “[G]iven voice by political podcasts where everyone violently agrees.”

Welcome to Cardiff Bay!

Politicians increasingly use coded language to evade facts and honest disagreement within tiny circles of like-minded clods. This is central to Badger’s argument: political leaders have lost both the inclination and the ability to address genuine public concerns, fueling the perception that politics is out of touch.

You can’t keep telling people how much better public services are getting when they can see they’re getting worse. You can’t tell people they’re better off when they’re struggling to make ends meet. You can’t blithely assert that things have improved when they’re demonstrably falling apart in front of the public’s eyes. Jesus wept. Readers, ask yourself these questions: Do you feel better off, more secure, happier, or more optimistic than you did a decade ago? Really? Second question: Are you fed up with politicians telling you that you are, or should be?

It must end. It’s time for the grown-ups to enter the room and sweep away the hand-wringing clowns who’ve infected politics. It’s time to get on. It’s time for politicians to stop talking about “aspirations” and what they’re “minded to do”. It’s time to do real things that deliver real improvements, not just make out that the shit sandwich the public’s doled out has a fraction more bread than it does turd.

Politicians have got too used to feeding the public bullshit wrapped up in evasions, glosses, and misdirection. They do it because the Stakeholder State encourages that approach. It hides public fury from politicians because that anger is too real to be addressed by smooth words or formulaic expressions about “morality” or “rights”. The politics of lanyards and heart emojis cannot end soon enough.

Can you imagine, for one sodding moment, Margaret Thatcher saying that she would support helping the terminally ill commit suicide because “I promised Esther Rantzen”? If you can, your occupation of a very small and very padded cell is assured. If you think, really think, that the British people uniformly regard large-scale immigration from Africa or Asia as an untrammelled good, the cell next door is yours. If you think people on the breadline care about whether or not the electricity and gas that heat their homes come from sustainable sources, you can have the one next to Ed Miliband. As for scrapping jury trials... there’s not a unit secure enough to contain anyone that deranged.

Councillor’s call for EpiPens in Pembrokeshire schools

A cALL for potentially life-saving Epipens to become a part of school equipment in pembrokeshire will be considered by senior councillors in 2026.

In a notice of motion heard at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, Independent Group leader Cllr Huw Murphy asked the council adopt a policy for Epi-pens to become part of school first aid equipment.

Emergency adrenaline auto-injectors, commonly known as EpiPens, are commonly used in the emergency treatment of Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.

Cllr Murphy, in his notice of motion, asked that “Pembrokeshire County Council work with all schools to develop a policy where all schools hold epi-pens as part of their first aid equipment”.

It added: “PCC can negotiate on behalf of our schools with the suppliers of such equipment to achieve best value through bulk purchasing. The immediate availability of epi-pens in an emergency involving a pupil on school premises has the potential reduce the risk of a tragic outcome.

“As some background in relation to this NoM is that the April 2025 meeting of the Schools O&S Committee debated the subject of epi-pens.

“The current policy from Welsh Government states that it’s a matter for individual School Governing bodies to

from WG and a period of nearly eight months has elapsed.

decide whether to stock epi-pens for use in an emergency should a pupil suffer anaphylactic shock, and should they wish to purchase epi-pens then each school does this on an individual basis.

“The Schools O&S Committee in April 2025 resolved to write to Welsh Government (WG) to highlight the epipens issue, which the Chair of the Schools O&S did. Since April 2025 the Schools O&S Committee have received no update

“The safety and well-being of pupils is a matter of priority and in view of the lack of response (I would argue lamentably so) from WG I feel PCC should proceed to develop our own policy to ensure that every LA school in Pembrokeshire hold epi-pens for use in an emergency, hence this NoM.”

Members agreed Cllr Murphy’s notice be sent to the council’s Cabinet, whose next meeting takes place in 2026, for further consideration.

Welsh primary school meals to receive £8m funding boost

pRIMARy schools across Wales are set to benefit from an estimated £8 million investment over the next two years after the Welsh government confirmed an increase in the amount spent on each free school meal.

The funding boost will see the unit rate for Universal Primary Free School Meals rise from £3.20 to £3.40 per meal, an increase of 20p.

Since the scheme was launched in 2022, more than 57 million free meals have been served to primary school pupils across Wales.

The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, said the increase means Wales now provides the highest per-meal funding rate for primary school meals anywhere in the UK, supporting schools and local authority catering teams to continue delivering nutritious food.

Wales also remains the only UK nation to offer Universal Primary Free School Meals to all primary school learners.

The scheme forms part of the Welsh Government’s wider efforts to support families with the cost of living and tackle child poverty. Parents are also being encouraged to check whether they are eligible for further assistance through

the “Get help with school costs” service, including the School Essentials Grant, which helps with uniforms and classroom items. Schools also receive additional support through the Pupil Development Grant for eligible learners.

Lynne Neagle said:

“Universal Primary Free School Meals, alongside our targeted free meal offer in secondary schools, means that two-thirds of learners in Wales can access a free

school meal at lunchtime every day.

“We recognise that costs are rising, and it is vital that local authorities are properly supported to deliver high-quality meals.

“Ending child poverty remains an absolute priority for the Welsh Government, and our commitment to Universal Primary Free School Meals shows how serious we are about giving every child the best possible start in life.”

Study of uterine inflammation in livestock could help treat humans

RESEARcH to help reduce inflammation in the uterus of livestock animals could help pave the way for developing new drugs to treat infertility in women, according to a new scientific review.

Using best ethical practice, scientists at Aberystwyth University have been exploring new ways of treating endometritis in sheep, cattle and other farm animals.

Endometritis causes inflammation in the uterus,

bringing discomfort to the animal as well as affecting future fertility and production.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition that endometritis can also be an important cause of infertility in women.

Researchers hope the recommendations and the knowledge gaps identified in the review paper will help inform understanding among clinical staff treating women with the condition, as well as lead to the

development of effective drugs.

Their findings have been published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal Nature Reviews Immunology.

Dr Debbie Nash from the Department of Life Sciences at Aberystwyth University said:

“Endometritis is a common condition in livestock caused by an infection in the lining of the uterus. Antibiotics are usually used to treat the infection but inflammation can persist, affecting fertility. My recent work has been focused on developing new plantbased drugs which treat the ongoing inflammation in animals and we are looking forward to conducting future studies to shortlist promising products.

“Even though my main focus has been on the health of livestock, there are additional lessons to be learnt from this animal modelling work. We know that chronic endometritis also affects fertility in humans. By sharing what we have learned and applying our knowledge more widely, we hope our research can also help kickstart the search for new therapies for women who suffer from endometritis, especially the early stages of drug discovery.

“Our research practices are all ethically sound and practical. We do not use tissue or cells from live animals in our

modelling but source material from abattoirs which would otherwise be discarded during the meat production process. The importance of good ethical standards in creating labbased animal models of uterine inflammation was highlighted in the review.”

Dr Nash is currently working with two Welsh-based companies to develop potential products for treating endometritis.

The review of the research by Dr Nash and Joanna L Giles from the Department of Life Sciences at Aberystwyth University is published in full in Nature Reviews Immunology (2025): https://doi.org/10.1038/ s41577-025-01200-2

Why farmers say inheritance tax changes do not go far enough

fARMERS across pembrokeshire say recent changes to inheritance tax rules have eased immediate pressure on family farms but insist the government’s climbdown has not resolved deeper concerns about long‑term security and confidence in the agricultural sector.

The UK Government has confirmed that the threshold for 100% Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) will rise from £1 million to £2.5 million per individual. When combined with measures announced in last month’s Budget allowing unused reliefs to be transferred between spouses, the change could provide an effective allowance of up to £5 million for married farming couples. The reforms are due to take effect from April 6, 2026.

While the move has been welcomed by farming organisations, many farmers argue it reduces the immediate risk without removing the underlying problem facing family farms, particularly in rural counties such as Pembrokeshire where land values have risen sharply while farm incomes remain under sustained pressure.

Local Senedd Member Sam Kurtz MS said the changes, while welcome, had not gone far enough to address the uncertainty facing farming families in Pembrokeshire. He said many farmers remained concerned about

how land and assets would be valued under the new rules and warned that confidence had been shaken by the way the original proposals were introduced. Mr Kurtz added that longterm clarity was essential if family farms were to plan for succession and continue investing in their businesses.

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) said the revised thresholds would provide “much-needed breathing space” for many families, but warned that farming businesses remain vulnerable because they are often asset-rich but cash-poor. The union has argued that farms cannot be treated in the same way as other assets when inheritance tax policy is being designed.

The original proposals to reform inheritance tax earlier this year

sparked widespread anxiety across Welsh agriculture, with fears that farms could be forced to sell land or break up long-established businesses to meet future tax liabilities. In Pembrokeshire, where many farms have been passed down through generations, industry figures said the uncertainty disrupted succession planning and caused families to delay investment decisions. Some farmers who spoke to national media following the Government’s reversal described the decision as a welcome U-turn but said it came too late to undo the stress caused by the earlier proposals. One farmer said the change was “the best Christmas present for a lot of farmers” but criticised what he described as a lack of understanding shown toward rural communities during the original

policy rollout.

Others involved in protests against the reforms said the episode had damaged trust, warning that uncertainty alone can be enough to undermine family farming businesses even if policies are later amended.

Political figures have also acknowledged that the debate is not settled. The chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee said the increase in thresholds was a positive step but called for a Wales-specific assessment of how the changes will affect farming communities, warning that further scrutiny is needed.

Farmers are now pressing for clearer guidance on how the new rules will work in practice, including how land and assets will be valued, how reliefs will apply to tenanted farms and family partnerships, and whether future governments could revisit the policy.

The FUW has said it will continue discussions with Ministers in the new year, arguing that restoring confidence is essential at a time when Welsh agriculture is already facing rising costs, policy change and wider economic uncertainty.

Industry representatives warn that without long-term stability, family farms in Pembrokeshire and across Wales may still struggle to plan confidently for the next generation, despite the Government’s partial reversal on inheritance tax.

NFU Cymru president sets out key challenges and priorities for Welsh farming

nfu

cyMRu president

Aled Jones has reflected on a turbulent year for Welsh agriculture while warning that the months ahead will be “seismic” for both farming and politics in Wales, as the country prepares to go to the polls in May.

In his Christmas and New Year message, Mr Jones said farming families across Wales had endured more than a year of upheaval following proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief and inheritance tax.

“Over the past fourteen months, farming families have been thrown into turmoil by proposals that threatened the future of the family farm,” he said. “NFU Cymru has been tireless in challenging these changes, with sustained and high-profile campaigning that culminated in the ‘NO IHT’ mosaic display at the Winter Fair on the eve of this year’s Budget.”

Mr Jones also recalled delivering the Stop the Family Farm Tax petition to Downing Street earlier this year, backed by more than a quarter of a million signatures.

While welcoming the limited concessions announced by the Chancellor in November — including the introduction of spousal transfer of the inheritance tax allowance — he warned the measures fell far short of what was needed.

“This will help only a small number of farmers and does nothing to protect the elderly or the terminally ill from the devastating consequences of these proposals,” he said. “It is for the most vulnerable in our communities that we must continue to fight.”

He urged the UK Government to remove the anti-forestalling clause from the Finance Bill as it progresses through Parliament, describing it as particularly harmful to farmers facing serious illness or uncertainty.

Turning to Welsh Government policy, Mr Jones noted that detailed guidance for the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) — eight years in the making — had now been published, with the scheme set to come into force from January 1, 2026.

He said important improvements had been secured since the scheme’s earliest proposals, following sustained engagement by NFU Cymru.

“Over the past eighteen months, our work through the Roundtable and sub-groups has delivered real change, including the removal of the ten per cent tree cover requirement and a reduction in universal actions from seventeen to twelve,” he said.

Mr Jones also welcomed confirmation that the overall farming budget would be maintained at £340 million, and said the inclusion of a social value payment recognised the wider contribution Welsh farming makes to society.

“While NFU Cymru supports the overall framework of the SFS, there is still much work to do,” he added. “This government — and the next — must commit to evolving the scheme so it supports a productive, progressive and profitable farming sector.”

Looking ahead to the Senedd election, Mr Jones described 2026 as a “seismic

JAnuARy has wasted little time in delivering wintry weather, with snow arriving across large parts of Wales. It has transformed familiar landscapes and in many cases, caused significant disruption. yet, as is so often the case, for farmers it has very much been business as usual.

year” for Welsh politics, with the Senedd expanding to ninety-six members and new constituencies introduced under a revised voting system.

He pointed to NFU Cymru’s manifesto, Welsh Farming: Growing Forward, which calls for a farm-to-fork food strategy, a ring-fenced multi-year farming budget, a comprehensive bovine TB eradication plan and an independent review of regulation.

Reflecting on the year just passed, Mr Jones acknowledged the strain caused by inheritance tax uncertainty, the rollout of the SFS, ongoing animal disease threats and extreme weather.

He was also critical of the recent four-year review of the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations, saying it failed to reflect the “sheer desperation” felt by farmers dealing with complex and impractical rules.

Despite these challenges, he said he remained optimistic.

“Every day I am inspired by the ambition and ‘can do’ attitude of farming families across Wales, and their determination to feed the nation while leaving their farms in a better state for the next generation.”

Mr Jones concluded by calling on politicians of all parties to work with the sector.

“As Wales enters a period of political change, we need policies and regulation that allow farming families to continue producing worldleading, healthy food while delivering for our environment, climate, economy, culture and language.”

“Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.”

Livestock still need tending and essential work on farms often cannot be paused because of the weather. Whatever the conditions, farmers are up early and out late, making sure animals are cared for and the farm keeps running. Many farmers have also been helping out beyond their own farm gates - gritting roads or assisting vehicles in difficulty - and showing the practical role farming families continue to play within our rural communities.

This week also marks Westminster’s return following the Christmas recess. With Parliament back in session, attention will inevitably return to policy and politics.

One issue that will remain firmly in focus is the Treasury’s preChristmas statement on inheritance tax reform, which was both unexpected and significant, particularly the decision to raise the tax-free threshold.

The FUW have taken the opportunity over the past fortnight to do some detailed number crunching to see what these changes could mean for Welsh farming businesses. Under the original proposals, up

to half (48%) of Basic Payment Scheme recipients in Wales could have been affected. That would have had a serious impact on farming businesses, family succession, and the wider rural economy. It is no wonder the plans caused anger and frustration and led to a significant lobbying effort from the FUW and the wider industry.

The revised proposals present a different picture. With the government increasing the threshold to £2.5 million, our calculations suggest that between around 5% and 20% of Welsh BPS recipients may now be affected, depending on farm ownership structures, marital status and succession plans.

While these revised proposals represent a significant positive change, the FUW remains frustrated with the UK Government’s approach to IHT reform, which has caused needless anxiety and seriously knocked confidence across the industry. The UK Government must learn its lesson by recognising the importance of careful, evidence-based policy that reflects the realities of family farming.

With the UK Government’s Finance Bill still making its way through Parliament, the FUW will continue to scrutinise these proposals and press for policies that recognise the unique structure of family farms and the vital role they play in sustaining rural Wales, whatever the weather.

Alpine A390 to be priced from £61,390 when orders open in Q1 2026

The all-new Alpine A390 will be priced from £61,390 on-the-road when order books officially open in the UK in early 2026, with first customer deliveries of the electric sport fastback beginning in spring.

The second model in Alpine’s fully electric Dream Garage –following the Car of the Yearwinning A290 – the A390 brings the brand’s unmistakable DNA into an entirely new segment, delivering the agility and emotion of a sports car with the everyday versatility of a five-seat fastback.

Three versions will be available from launch, each built around Alpine’s all-new optimised electric architecture. The GT develops 400PS and accelerates from 0–62mph in 4.8 seconds, while the more powerful GTS produces 470PS and up to 824Nm of torque for a 0–62mph time of just 3.9 seconds. The Premiere Edition, based on the GT, sits between the two as a high-spec celebration limited to just 390 examples.

All models feature Alpine’s unique Active Torque Vectoring system, made possible by placing two independent motors on the rear axle, giving the A390 the ability to precisely control torque at each wheel. The result is exceptional agility, balance and responsiveness, with the development team directly benchmarking its behaviour against the lighter Alpine A110 to ensure a driving experience centred on feel rather than software.

A390’s high-performance 89kWh battery delivers up to 345 miles of range (WLTP,

subject to homologation). Charging performance has been optimised for real-world use, with DC charging of up to 190kW allowing a 15–80 per cent charge in around 25 minutes. An 11kW AC bidirectional charger is standard, with a 22kW unit available as an option and fitted as standard to the Premiere Edition.

Inside, the A390 introduces a refined and immersive Alpine feel@one cockpit with a strong focus on driver engagement. Two high-definition screens –a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12-inch central display – integrate Alpine-specific graphics, Google built-in services, an EV route planner and over-the-air updates. Materials and craftsmanship are elevated across the cabin, with aluminium Devialet speaker grilles, microfibre headlining and a choice of Alpine Sport or Sabelt® bucket seats depending on trim. Despite its performance focus, A390 remains practical, offering seating for five and a 532-litre boot with an optional double floor.

Priced from £61,390, the A390 GT starts the range with its 20” CRISTAL diamond-cut alloy wheels with Michelin Sport EV tyres, anodised Alpine branded 6-piston monobloc front brake calipers, adaptive headlights with LED MATRIX Vision technology, a body-coloured roof, power tailgate, and a 11kW three-phase AC charger with bidirectional charging. Its interior features a twotone combination of Alcantara® and Nappa leather in deep blue

and grey with double stitching, a black headliner, heated 6-way powered memory Alpine Sport seats with perforated Alcantara®, dual-zone automatic climate control with air purification function, powered, heated, autofolding side mirrors with puddle lamps and projected Alpine logo, heated steering wheel in Deep Blue Nappa leather, a frameless auto-dimming interior mirror, centre console with transmission buttons inspired by the A110, and interior ambient lighting with Alpine monogram.

The standard technology package includes a 12.3” digital driver display, 12” multimedia display with Alpine Portal and Google services built-in, Alpine Telemetrics, Devialet® high-fidelity audio system with 13 speakers, and wireless smartphone replication with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®.

Advanced driver assistance and safety systems across the range include automatic lights and wipers with rain sensor, intelligent adaptive cruise control and speed limiter, safe distance alert, emergency brake assist, advanced distraction recognition with emergency stop assist, lane keeping assistant, blind spot warning and intervention, safe occupant exit alert, driver attention monitoring system, traffic sign recognition with overspeed alert, automatic urban and interurban emergency braking with detection of cars, pedestrians, cyclists and junctions, reverse pedestrian warning, reverse parking exit warning, front, side

and rear parking assistance, and a 360° camera with around view monitor.

From £65,390, the A390 Premiere Edition adds ATELIER 20” CRISTAL alloy wheels in a black painted matte finish, Bleu Alpine branded 6-piston monobloc front brake calipers, a contrasting black roof, the French flag on the rear C-pillar, eight-way powered and heated Alpine Sport front seats by Sabelt® with genuine two-tone Nappa leather and massage function, DRIVING pack with Active driver assistance and hands-free parking, and a 22kW three-phase AC charger with bidirectional charging.

Crowning the range, priced from £69,390, is the A390 GTS with its high-performance 470PS/824Nm powertrain, with a 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds. As standard the A390 GTS features 21” SNOWFLAKE diamondcut forged wheels with highperformance Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, Alpine branded 6-piston monobloc front brake calipers in Rouge Racing, interior headliner in black Alcantara®, driver and passenger 8-way powered and heated memory Alpine Sport seats by Sabelt® with genuine two-tone Nappa leather and massage function, Devialet® XtremeSound audio system with 13 speakers and Space mode for the most immersive sound, Alpine Telemetrics Expert, DRIVING pack with active driver assistance and hands-free parking.

Six body colours are available from launch, starting with Blanc Topaze, followed by Noir Profond, Argent Mercure, Bleu Abysse, Bleu Alpine Vision, and Gris Tonnerre Matte – a special Atelier finish available on GT and GTS. A contrasting black roof can be added for £1,000 on both the GT and GTS.

Nic Burnside, Brand Director, Alpine, said: “With its blend of expressive design, bespoke electric performance and the dynamic spirit that defines every Alpine, the A390 marks an important step in the brand’s transition to a fully electric future – one that remains firmly centred on driving pleasure.”

For more information, or the chance to pre-order your own Alpine A390, visit: https:// www.alpine-cars.co.uk/electricmodels/a390.html

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The original turns 50 – Volkswagen celebrates five decades of GTI in 2026

It is the world’s most successful compact sports car: the golf gTI. The original in its class. More than 2.5 million units have been produced to date. In 2026, the golf gTI will turn 50 – and this will be celebrated with a variety of national and international classic events, the exclusive anniversary model golf gTI EdITIon 501, and the world premiere of the first allelectric gTI.

A success story since 1976. When the Golf GTI was launched in 1976, no one could have guessed that the 81 kW (110 PS) Volkswagen, with its red grille surround, black wheel arch extensions and golf ball gear knob, would soon become the world’s most successful compact sports car. Only 5,000 units were planned, but in the first year alone dealers sold 10 times as many vehicles. In total, 461,690

first-generation Golf GTI cars were built.

It was the unusual overall package that struck a chord: a highly precise sports car for lonely Alpine passes and, at the same time, a practical companion for every day of the year, extremely economical and instantly a timeless style icon. The price was also a hit: 13,850 Deutschmarks in Germany. The media spoke of the democratisation of the sports car. And indeed, the performance of the 182 km/h Volkswagen was impressive: with a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.0 seconds, the 1976 Golf GTI left behind numerous sports cars and coupés that were easily 10,000 Deutschmarks more expensive.

The DNA for the past 50 years – and for tomorrow. The unique interplay of agile engine, lightweight front-wheel drive, balanced chassis,

perfectly fitting sports seats and crisp, no-frills design still characterises the Golf GTI today. It is this synthesis that Volkswagen has continuously refined over 50 years – making the Golf GTI an authentic sports car and the original in its class. The fact is: today, when people say GTI, they mean Volkswagen. The crowning glory of this world-famous product brand in the anniversary year 2026 is the Golf GTI EDITION 50 – the most powerful production Golf GTI to date, with 239 kW (325 PS). The anniversary model is already available to order in some European markets, with the first units to be delivered in 2026. Volkswagen has also proven that the GTI philosophy is successful in other model series, especially with the Polo GTI. In 2026, a new Polo GTI will take off: the ID. Polo GTI. With 166 kW (226 PS), it will transfer the GTI

philosophy into the electric drive era for the first time – there could not have been a better debut year for the first electric GTI.

Classic GTI in Paris and Bremen. The first five decades of GTI will be the focus of various major classic events in 2026. The celebrations kick off from 28 January to 1 February in Paris at Rétromobile. The classic car show at the Port de Versailles will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2026, just like the Golf GTI. Almost simultaneously, the first German show for classic vehicles begins in the Hanseatic city of Bremen: the Bremen Classic Motorshow. Here, the Golf GTI will be in the spotlight from 30 January to 2 February. Both shows are therefore not only the opening events for the European classic season 2026, but also for the GTI year 2026.

Contract signed for public housing at Pembrokeshire development

THE dEVELopER behind the ger y Môr development in Saundersfoot has formally signed an agreement with pembrokeshire county council to deliver new public housing on the site.

Persimmon Homes West Wales and the local authority have exchanged contracts for twenty-one new properties at the Sandy Hill Road development, which will be transferred to the Council upon completion to help ease housing pressure in Pembrokeshire.

All twenty-one homes will be made available for social rent. In addition, a further four properties at Ger y Môr will be reserved for local people through a local lettings initiative, bringing the total number of homes allocated to those on the housing waiting list to twenty-five.

The agreement was marked on site by representatives from Persimmon Homes, alongside Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Michelle Bateman, and Saundersfoot South county councillor, Cllr Chris Williams.

The Ger y Môr development will comprise seventy-two

homes in total and will include a number of community and sustainability features. These include a new equipped children’s play area at the heart of the site and a dedicated active travel link connecting the development to Sandy Hill Road.

The scheme also incorporates a sustainable drainage system with bioretention areas and rain gardens, alongside green technologies such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging points. Ecological measures have been built into the design to mitigate impacts on dormouse habitats and to preserve existing trees and hedgerows.

Persimmon Homes, an accredited five-star housebuilder, currently has three, four and five-bedroom homes available to purchase at Ger y Môr from £310,000, with two-bedroom properties due to be released shortly.

As part of its Community Champions scheme, Persimmon donates £48,000 each year to good causes across Wales. Recent local beneficiaries include Saundersfoot Cricket Club,

Saundersfoot Rotary Club and the village’s New Year’s Day Swim.

Stuart Phillips, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes West Wales, said:

“Persimmon is determined to leave a positive community legacy wherever we build, and a key part of that commitment is the transfer of high-quality new homes to local housing partners.

“We are delighted to have exchanged contracts on this initial tranche of houses at Ger y Môr, and we hope this significant contribution will help alleviate pressure on the local housing list.

“We are pleased to be working in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council as we progress this site and deliver much-needed homes for local people.”

Cllr Michelle Bateman, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“We’re delighted to be entering into partnership with Persimmon and to be taking on twenty-one new homes at Ger y Môr, helping us deliver secure, affordable homes for local people in Pembrokeshire.

“The purchase of these properties for social rent forms part of a wider range of affordable housing options we are providing to support families and individuals with different housing needs.

“This agreement reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to increasing the supply of affordable homes and strengthening our local communities.”

Cllr Chris Williams, County Councillor for Saundersfoot South, added:

“Throughout this development I have been grateful to the Persimmon team, who have worked constructively with the community and listened to local concerns.

“Persimmon is a local developer, and it is hugely positive to see them supporting local people through the local lettings initiative in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council.

“As a result of this agreement, twenty-five properties will be made available to those on the housing waiting list. This is an excellent outcome and a very positive step forward for residents hoping to remain in their own community.”

Popular seaside restaurant has closed

THE family behind Salty’s beach bar and Restaurant in Tenby has announced that they will be closing the popular seaside venue.

Perched on South Beach, Salty’s has long been a favourite with both locals and visitors, particularly during the summer months when the sand stretches right up to its front door. Its combination of sea views and relaxed atmosphere has made it a key part of Tenby’s vibrant coastal scene.

The family, who took over the restaurant in 2021, confirmed that it will close on Sunday, 4 January, marking the end of a five-year chapter.

In a message shared on social media, the family said:

“After an incredible journey, Salty’s Beach Bar and Restaurant will be closing our doors for the final time on Sunday after service.

“Tom, Sian and family took on Salty’s in 2021, just as the world was finding its feet again after lockdown. What started as a leap of faith quickly became something truly special.

“We are unbelievably grateful to every single customer who has walked through our doors. Whether you joined us for a coffee, a family meal, a celebration, a sunny afternoon drink or a stormy winter warmer, your

support has meant everything to us.

“You have helped us build not just a business, but a community, and we will always treasure the friendships, laughter and moments shared here.

“As we close this chapter, we do so with full hearts and immense pride. We would like to wish the future proprietors every success and happiness in the years ahead.

“Thank you for being part of our

journey and for supporting us over the years.”

In addition to Salty’s, the family also operate The Salted Shack, located nearby, and Twelve, a canteen and wine bar in Tenby town centre.

Impala Terminal Milford Haven hydrogen gas pipeline approved

A cALL for a 1.5km hydrogen gas pipeline in pembrokeshire in connection with a previously granted scheme for green energy production has been given the goahead by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Zurich-based MorGen Energy Ltd, previously known as H2 Energy Europe, sought permission for a 1.5km six-inch 10-bar low-pressure hydrogen pipeline and associated Above Ground Installation at the Impala Terminal, Milford Haven to the South Hook Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) Terminal.

A supporting statement through agent Fisher German said the scheme crossed both Pembrokeshire County Council and the national park authorities, with a similar application before that authority.

It added: “The proposals form part of the West Wales Hydrogen project, where planning permission was granted on October 6, 2023, for the development of a new 20MW hydrogen production facility at the Impala Terminal (formerly Puma Energy) in Milford Haven.

“The approved hydrogen production facility which uses electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, where the oxygen is a by-product of the process. The hydrogen production plant will produce 1,875

tons of hydrogen per year. Hydrogen will be distributed via high pressure vessels (40 ft. containers) to various customers in the closer vicinity, opening the hydrogen market to a large variety of customers.

“Hydrogen will also be distributed

to the South Hook LNG Terminal and it is proposed that this will be via a new six-inch 10-bar hydrogen pipeline. The option to supply hydrogen to the South Hook LNG terminal via high pressure hydrogen containers was dismissed due to safety considerations at the

terminal.

“This application therefore seeks planning permission for a section of below ground hydrogen pipeline within the jurisdiction of Pembrokeshire County Council, which comprises the north part of the route from the hydrogen plant at Impala to the South Hook LNG Terminal, alongside an AGI at the Impala Terminal.”

An officer report recommending approval said: “The proposal is to construct a below ground hydrogen pipeline and an Above Ground Installation (AGI). The southern part of the proposed pipeline is within the jurisdiction of the Pembroke Coast National Park Authority – a separate planning application has been made to PCNPA.

“The hydrogen pipeline would supply South Hook LNG terminal with low carbon hydrogen from a new hydrogen production facility at the Impala Terminal that benefits from planning permission.

“The application states that ‘the South Hook LNG Terminal will use the hydrogen to partially decarbonize their site, namely their Submerged Combustion Vaporisers (SCVs) by blending hydrogen into the natural gas stream’.”

The application was conditionally approved.

Health board warns of severe pressure on A&E services at west Wales hospitals

WI n TER demand leaves g langwili and Withybush emergency departments particularly stretched

Hywel Dda University

Health Board has warned that its Accident and Emergency departments are under significant pressure, with Glangwili and Withybush hospitals particularly affected as demand continues to rise across west Wales.

The warning was issued in a Facebook post on Sunday (January 4), in which the health board urged the public to help reduce pressure on emergency services by seeking the right care in the right place.

The board said Emergency Departments across all its hospital sites were experiencing high demand, adding that similar public warnings have been issued in

recent days for both Glangwili and Withybush, suggesting sustained pressure rather than a short-term spike.

Members of the public who are unwell but unsure where to seek help were advised to contact NHS 111 Wales, which is staffed by trained healthcare professionals who can assess symptoms and direct patients to the most appropriate service. The health board reiterated that 999 should always be used in serious or life-threatening emergencies.

For urgent mental health support, people were advised to call NHS 111 and select option two, which provides 24hour access to mental health services.

Patients with minor injuries or illnesses that require sameday treatment but are not lifethreatening were encouraged

to consider Minor Injury Units, while community pharmacies were highlighted as another alternative, with many offering walk-in advice and treatment for common conditions without an appointment.

The health board also appealed for families to support loved ones who are medically fit to leave hospital but are awaiting community care packages, saying that where relatives are able to help, this may speed up discharges and free up beds for patients requiring urgent treatment.

Why services are under pressure Health leaders have previously warned that winter places intense strain on hospital services due to a combination of seasonal illnesses, including flu and respiratory infections, increased emergency

attendances, staffing pressures, and delays in discharging patients because of shortages in community and social care provision.

Cold weather, reduced access to routine services at weekends, and limited hospital bed capacity continue to place additional pressure on emergency departments, particularly in rural health board areas such as Hywel Dda.

The health board has stressed that A&E services must be prioritised for those who need them most, and that using alternative services where appropriate helps protect patient safety and reduce waiting times.

Further updates are expected if pressures continue in the days ahead.

Warning issued to anyone who takes paracetamol or ibuprofen

A f RESH warning has been issued to anyone who regularly takes paracetamol or ibuprofen, after a pharmacist urged the public to be mindful of how often they rely on common painkillers.

Millions of people routinely reach for over-the-counter remedies to ease everyday aches and pains. However, a healthcare professional known online as Pharmacist Anum has highlighted important safety advice, stressing that frequent use without medical guidance can carry health risks.

While she acknowledged that many non-prescription medicines can be “great” when used correctly, she warned there are situations where they may mask underlying problems or lead to complications. With paracetamol and ibuprofen among the most widely used medicines in the UK, she said it is vital people understand when their use may become problematic.

It is not the first time such concerns have been raised. Similar warnings were issued just months ago about the risks associated with regular use

of these medications.

Speaking about over-the-counter treatments more broadly, Pharmacist Anum emphasised the importance of seeing a GP if symptoms persist. She explained that remedies for issues such as indigestion are generally “completely fine” for short-term use, but should not become a long-term solution without medical advice.

“If you’re finding you need them all the time, that’s when you need to be investigated,” she said, adding that doctors must identify the root cause of ongoing symptoms rather than simply treating them with medication.

She went on to highlight how easily painkillers can be overlooked because they are so commonplace.

“What I feel often gets overlooked is painkillers – super common things like paracetamol, ibuprofen and cocodamol,” she said.

“When they’re used short-term for the odd headache or occasional aches and pains, that’s completely fine. But if you’re relying on them day to day just to get through normal activities, and you haven’t been investigated, that’s an issue.

“If that sounds like you, speak to your GP so they can find the root cause of the pain and treat it properly. Overusing these medications increases the risk of side effects, and you can build up a tolerance –particularly to things like co-codamol – which can make pain harder to treat in the future.”

Put simply, these medicines are not designed for continual use without

medical supervision, and developing a habit of taking them regularly can lead to a range of complications.

What are the risks of overuse?

Many people are unaware that it is possible to take too much paracetamol, with potentially serious consequences. Excessive use can cause severe liver and kidney damage and, in some cases, can be fatal.

It is essential to stick to the recommended dosage, as taking more than advised can overwhelm the body’s ability to process the drug safely. Worryingly, signs of liver damage may not appear straight away, which is why medical advice should be sought if there are any concerns.

Ibuprofen also carries risks when overused. Taking it too frequently or in high doses can lead to stomach pain and indigestion, kidney damage and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems.

As Pharmacist Anum stressed, occasional use of paracetamol or ibuprofen is generally safe for most people. The key is to follow the instructions, avoid exceeding recommended doses and not become reliant on them to manage ongoing pain.

Anyone with persistent symptoms or health concerns is advised to speak to their GP, who can assess the situation properly and offer appropriate treatment.

Neurologist says ‘everyone should do this in 2026’ to protect their brain

A ST udy has even found one of the habits could lower the risk of dementia

A neurologist has outlined three New Year’s resolutions he believes everyone should adopt to improve their brain health.

January is traditionally a time for fresh starts, with many people vowing to get fitter, change careers or take control of their finances. But for those looking to prioritise their mental wellbeing, one medical expert says a few simple lifestyle changes could make a meaningful difference.

In a video shared on TikTok, neurologist Dr Baibing Chen highlighted three habits he says can support long-term brain health.

“Here are three New Year’s resolutions that I, as a neurologist, think everyone should have for better brain health,” he told viewers.

Dr Chen’s first piece of advice was

to make sleep a top priority, starting with a consistent bedtime routine.

“We live in a modern society that glorifies overworking and neglects sleep,” he said. “But sleep is one of the most important, if not the most important, things that you can do for your brain health.”

He explained that while poor sleep is often blamed on stress, pain or anxiety, the relationship works both ways.

“Poor sleep also feeds those problems and creates a vicious cycle,” he said. “So fixing your sleep should be your number one priority in the New Year.”

Crucially, he stressed that this does not mean relying on medication or supplements. Instead, he urged people to focus on good sleep hygiene, including going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.

His second recommendation was

to establish a regular daily routine, something he says the brain responds to particularly well.

“Your brain thrives on predictability,” Dr Chen said. “People with routines tend to have less anxiety and depression.”

From his clinical experience, he added that consistent routines can also help reduce migraine frequency and ease chronic pain.

This includes regular wake-up times, eating meals at similar times each day, maintaining steady levels of physical activity and having clear wind-down signals in the evening to help calm the nervous system.

Finally, Dr Chen encouraged people to get dancing.

“I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again – we should all be dancing,” he said.

He described dancing as one of the

most effective activities for both body and brain, as it combines movement, balance, coordination, memory, rhythm and social interaction.

Dr Chen pointed to research showing dancers have a lower risk of developing dementia. In particular, he referenced a landmark 2003 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which found that dancing was the only physical activity studied that was associated with a reduced risk of dementia.

“Dance in the shower, dance in the kitchen – that’s all fine,” he said. “But what’s even better is learning new choreography, because that challenges more areas of your brain.”

He suggested joining a local dance class or learning routines online, adding: “This is actually one of the best things that the internet has to offer.”

Historic castle could benefit from plans to drain quarry

A cALL to allow a pembrokeshire quarry to drain surplus water from its operations into a mill pond below a historic castle has been lodged with natural Resources Wales (nRW).

In an application to NRW, Templeton-based A & C Aggregates Limited seeks to vary an existing abstraction licence at Carew Quarry, Carew Newton.

The NRW consultation may be viewed on its website.

A supporting document on behalf of the applicant says:

“Carew Quarry is an operational

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

quarry that has consent to quarry limestone to 30m below Ordnance Datum that requires the quarry void to be dewatered. The operator has an environmental permit allowing for a maximum of 10,000m3day of dewatering water to be discharged to a naturally occurring sinkhole in the field between the quarry and the mill pond.

“It would appear from observations that at least part of the water discharged to the

sinkhole drains ‘directly’ to the northern bank of the Mill Pond via a fissure in the limestone. It is understood to alleviate flooding of Butts Lane from the overtopping of the sinkhole, the previous operator of the quarry installed an overflow pipe that discharges directly to the northern bank of the Mill Pond.

“Since dewatering commenced in 2024, the capacity of the sinkhole has been observed to vary with seasonally, presumably in response to varying groundwater levels, from circa 4,000m3day and 7,500m3day.

“This has hampered the ability of the operator to dewater the quarry and to maintain levels in the quarry over the wetter winter months. It is for this reason that a permit variation is being sought to allow a direct discharge to the mill pond via the overflow to supplement the capacity of the sinkhole initially during the dewatering phase and then over the winter months to maintain groundwater levels in the base of the quarry void.

“This application is currently being determined. The purpose of this variation is to ensure the discharge permit and the abstraction licence have the same discharge locations. The variation required is therefore to add a discharge point on the abstraction licence at National Grid Reference SN 04582 03925 in addition to the current discharge point at SN 04595 04048. No other changes to the current abstraction licences are proposed.”

Details of the application were also lodged with Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners, the authority’s role to act as an observer of the overall application.

Tributes paid to County Councillor Mike Stoddart following his death

TRI bu TES have been paid from across p embrokeshire following the death of c ounty c ouncillor Mike Stoddart, who passed away peacefully today at Withybush Hospital, surrounded by his family. The sad news was announced earlier by his wife, Vivien, who said the family were heartbroken at his passing.

Mike Stoddart was a wellknown and often formidable figure in Milford Haven public life, recognised both for his long

involvement in local journalism and for his outspoken role in local politics.

Alongside Vivien, Mike founded and ran the Milford & West Wales Mercury during the 1990s, establishing the paper at a time when independent local journalism played a central role in town life. The family-run newspaper became a familiar fixture in Milford Haven before being sold in the late 1990s. The title went on to change ownership several times before eventually ceasing print publication in 2020.

After leaving the newspaper, Mike continued to play an active and highly visible role in local debate. He became widely known for his forthright “Old Grumpy” website, where he wrote extensively and often critically about council business, local governance and public accountability. His writing style was unapologetically direct, and he was unafraid to challenge decisions or

individuals he believed were failing the community.

That same approach carried into his time as an elected member of Pembrokeshire County Council, where he served as a county councillor and became known as a strong and experienced voice in the chamber. Colleagues frequently remarked on his depth of knowledge and his willingness to speak plainly, even when his views were unpopular.

Milford Haven Town Council was among those to pay tribute, saying it was saddened to hear of the passing of County Councillor Stoddart.

In a statement, the council described Mike as a wellknown figure around the town and community, noting that he and Vivien had both served Milford Haven for many years as public servants, as well as through their work running the former Milford Mercury.

The council added that

its thoughts and sympathies were with Vivien, Mike’s family, friends and his colleagues at Pembrokeshire County Council at this difficult time.

Cllr Tim Evans also paid tribute, saying he was “so sorry” to hear of the passing of his fellow county councillor. He described Mike as a “big presence” at County Hall and said his knowledge and experience would be greatly missed. He added his heartfelt sympathies to Vivien and her family.

Mike Stoddart leaves behind a significant legacy in Milford Haven, shaped by decades of involvement in local journalism, public debate and council service. Whether admired or challenged, he was a figure who made his presence felt and whose voice was rarely ignored.

Our thoughts are with Vivien, their family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time.

Starmer seeks to reset message with costof-living focus after leadership speculation

Prime Minister says Labour will make families “better off” as local elections loom

pRIME MInISTER Sir Keir Starmer is preparing to take his case directly to voters with a renewed focus on the cost of living, insisting Labour’s policies will begin to ease household pressures this year.

During a visit to Berkshire on Monday, Sir Keir will meet residents and businesses as he attempts to reframe the Government’s message after a difficult first year in office marked by weak growth, poor polling and internal unrest.

The Prime Minister has rejected suggestions that his leadership is under threat, saying he remains focused on delivering “real improvements” for families rather than responding to political speculation.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Sir Keir said his own upbringing had shaped his approach to policy, recalling times when his family struggled financially.

“Every pound matters,” he said, adding that Labour’s priority for 2026 is to reduce everyday costs and put more money back into people’s pockets.

The renewed push comes as Labour faces elections in England, Wales and Scotland later this year, though the Prime Minister has played down claims the results will amount to a verdict on his Government.

He told the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme that

voters should not view the contests as a judgment on Westminster, insisting Labour would “fight for every vote” without taking public support for granted.

Sir Keir also defended his decision to rule out stepping aside, arguing that political instability had damaged the country in recent years.

“Constant leadership changes are not in the national interest,” he said, contrasting Labour’s approach

with what he described as the “chaos” of successive Conservative administrations.

As part of the cost-of-living campaign, ministers will highlight measures including a freeze on rail fares and a week-long discount scheme covering around three million train tickets from Tuesday.

Sir Keir said cheaper transport would benefit not only commuters but also town centres and local

businesses by encouraging footfall and family travel.

“It’s good news for high streets,” he said. “Affordable transport helps people spend time together and supports local economies.”

MPs return to Westminster this week following the Christmas recess, with Sir Keir expected to use Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting to underline the Government’s focus on household finances.

“I know families are still under pressure,” he is expected to tell ministers. “There will be no pause in our efforts to make life more affordable.”

The Conservatives have accused Labour of worsening the cost-ofliving crisis, with party leader Kemi Badenoch claiming working people are paying the price for higher taxes. She pointed to the continued freeze on income tax thresholds, warning that millions more are being pulled into higher tax bands.

Ministers have defended the measures, including £26 billion in tax rises announced in the autumn statement, saying they are necessary to stabilise the economy and protect public services.

Mrs Badenoch said Labour “has no plan to fix Britain”, a claim the Prime Minister rejects as he seeks to reset his message for the year ahead.

Will Keir Starmer still be Prime Minister in 12 months? He thinks so

SIR KEIR STARMER has said he expects to still be prime Minister this time next year, dismissing speculation about his leadership after a difficult first year in office marked by weak polling and sluggish economic growth.

In his first interview of 2026, the Labour leader told the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg that frequent changes of leadership were not in the “national interest”, arguing that political instability was one of the main reasons voters rejected the Conservatives at the last general election.

“Under the last government, we saw constant chopping and changing of leadership and teams,” he said. “It caused utter chaos, and it’s one of the reasons the Tories were booted out so effectively.

“Nobody wants to go back to that. It’s not in our national interest.”

Sir Keir said he had no intention of presiding over similar instability, adding: “We know what happens when you go down that chaotic path, and I’m not going to take us back there.

“I will be sitting in this seat by 2027,

and if this long-form interview works, we can try it again in January next year as well.”

The Prime Minister said he was elected with a five-year mandate to change the country and would ultimately be judged at the next election on whether his Government had delivered on the issues that matter most to voters.

“I know I’ll be judged when we get to the next election on whether I’ve delivered on the key things people care about,” he said.

The interview followed Sir Keir’s New Year message, in which he acknowledged that life remains “harder than it should be” for many people across the UK, but said the coming year would begin to bring a “sense of hope”.

He said the Government would “stay the course” in its efforts to improve public services and address the cost-of-living pressures facing households, warning that “renewal is not an overnight job” and that many of the challenges facing the country were “decades in the making”.

“In 2026, the choices we’ve made will mean more people begin to feel positive change in their bills, their communities and their health service,” he said.

Sir Keir was last interviewed by Ms Kuenssberg in September, when he asked for “space to get on and do what we need to do”, warning that Labour faced a growing challenge from Reform UK.

A Reform UK spokesperson responded to the latest comments by saying the next election would be a choice “between continued managed decline under Labour or a new path of change under Reform that prioritises the British people”.

“Britain has suffered enough under Tory and Labour mismanagement,” the spokesperson said. “Britain needs Reform.”

W ITH ANDREW LyE

welcome in ear from the pembrokeshire Liberal democrats.

A big thank you if you have been working in our NHS, the armed services and the Council, gritting our roads in the cold weather and collecting our waste and recyclables, amongst other vital services.

We are 4 months away from the Senedd elections in May and all political parties are gearing up for the campaign ahead. Writing this far ahead, the talk has been that change is on the cards.

New constituencies, with a different voting system and an expanded Senedd with 96 MS’s.

The talk is that Labour won’t be the next government, despite what current First Minister, Eluned Morgan is saying. She has to say Labour will win as she’s hardly going to admit defeat before a vote is cast!

NHS Wales is facing mounting pressure in diagnostic imaging services, with rising agency staffing costs and an ageing radiography workforce highlighting long-term risks to patient care, according to new research from the Welsh Liberal Democrats.

Radiographers are the professionals who perform X-rays, CT, MRI and ultrasound scans — tests that are fundamental to emergency medicine, cancer diagnosis, trauma care and elective surgery. Without adequate radiography staffing, patient pathways across the NHS slow down, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Over the past five years, Welsh health boards have spent more than £15.5 million on agency radiographers, with annual spending almost doubling between 2020/21 and 2023/24. At the same time, more than a quarter of

radiographers in Wales are aged over 50, with over one in ten already over 55.

Despite relatively low reported vacancy rates, several health boards are increasingly relying on agency staff. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board alone spent over £8.1 million on agency radiographers during the period covered by the FOI.

Workforce data suggests the situation may worsen. In some areas, nearly half of radiographers are approaching retirement age, raising the risk that experienced staff could leave faster than they can be replaced, increasing reliance on costly temporary staffing.

With diagnostic imaging central to timely diagnosis and treatment, the combined impact of rising agency costs and an ageing workforce raises serious questions about long-term workforce planning and patient access to care in NHS Wales.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS said:

“Radiographers are absolutely vital to the NHS. From diagnosing cancer to treating people in A&E, the vast majority of patient journeys depend on timely access to scans.

“These figures show a system increasingly relying on expensive agency staff while failing to plan properly for the future workforce. That is not fair on patients, and it is not fair on staff who are already under huge pressure.

“The Welsh Labour Government must take urgent action to improve recruitment and retention, support experienced staff to stay in the workforce for longer, and ensure transparent reporting of agency spending. Without a long-term plan, patients will continue to face delays and the NHS will continue to pay the price.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Plaid Cymru selects Billy Shaw for Fishguard North East by-election

p LAI d cy MR u has selected local community figure b illy Shaw as its candidate for the forthcoming p embrokeshire c ounty c ouncil by-election in f ishguard n orth East, to be held on Tuesday ( f eb 10).

Mr Shaw is a former British Army biomedical scientist and NHS senior scientist, with a career spanning health, public service, and community leadership. He currently serves as Mayor of Fishguard and has been involved in a range of local initiatives, including projects supporting health, education, and military veterans.

Well known locally, Mr Shaw has played a prominent role in community life in Fishguard and the surrounding area, and has been a regular advocate for strengthening local services and community cohesion.

Speaking following his selection, Billy Shaw said: “The circumstances of this byelection, which arose following the death of Jordan Ryan, are of course very sad, and my thoughts remain with Jordan’s family and loved ones.

“As the current Mayor of Fishguard, I know how important it is to serve this community with passion and dedication. Our area deserves a strong and committed voice, and I’m ready to bring energy, ideas and fresh thinking to make a real difference for Fishguard North East.”

Plaid Cymru’s Ceredigion Preseli MP, Ben Lake, said Mr Shaw would be a strong representative for the area if elected.

He said: “Billy Shaw has a proven track record of standing up for his community and will be a strong voice for Fishguard North East.

“People locally need a councillor who will fight for essential services and champion the interests of the area. Billy brings energy, experience and a deep understanding of the challenges we face.”

2026 could be year of ‘hope and new leadership’ for Wales, says Plaid Cymru leader

pLAId cyMRu leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has said that 2026 could mark a turning point for Wales, describing it as a year of “hope and new leadership”.

Acknowledging the challenges facing people across Wales – including long NHS waiting times, rising living costs and economic inequality – Mr ap Iorwerth said his party offered the leadership the country needed after 27 years of Labour-led government.

The next Senedd election will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

Plaid Cymru is currently polling ahead of Reform UK in Wales, according to recent surveys. Mr ap Iorwerth said the election would be a “two-horse race” between the two parties, presenting voters with what he described as a clear choice between “two futures”.

He said one option would take Wales “backwards”,

while the other would focus on leadership that “stands up for Wales, brings people together and improves everyday life”.

Plaid Cymru’s stated priorities include reducing NHS waiting times, easing financial pressures on families through an expanded childcare offer, supporting Welsh businesses and local jobs, and building what the party describes as a fairer and more confident Wales.

Speaking at the start of the new year, Mr ap Iorwerth said: “A new year is a chance to look ahead with hope and optimism, and there is real reason to be hopeful because 2026 can be the year everything changes for the better for Wales.

“We all know things are not as good as they should be. It’s hard to see a doctor, bills are rising, and Wales is too often treated as an afterthought by Westminster. Across our country, people are ready for

something new.

“On May 7, 2026, the people of Wales will have the chance to choose that new future.

“Labour has long given up on Wales. The choice is between politics that looks backwards and thrives on division, or leadership that stands up for Wales and brings people together.

“A Plaid Cymru government would focus on improving everyday life – getting the NHS back on track, easing pressure on families with a transformative childcare offer, backing Welsh businesses and local jobs, and building a fairer, more confident Wales.

“This new year can be the start of something better for Wales – a bold new chapter in our nation’s history. I look forward to speaking with people across Wales in the coming months and working hard to earn their trust.”

Reform UK complains to BBC over Caerphilly debate audience

REfoRM uK has complained to the bbc over a televised by-election debate in caerphilly, after it emerged that an audience member who challenged the party’s candidate is now standing for plaid cymru as a community councillor.

The complaint relates to a Your Voice, Your Vote programme broadcast by BBC Wales during the Senedd byelection campaign in October 2025. The contest was triggered by the sudden death of Labour MS Hefin David.

Six candidates took part in the debate, including Reform UK candidate Llyr Powell and Plaid Cymru’s Lindsay Whittle, alongside representatives of other parties.

During the programme, Caerphilly resident Alison Vyas challenged Powell over Reform UK’s stance on immigration, telling him she had “never felt

so unwelcome” in her home town since the party began campaigning locally. Her son also spoke during the exchange, citing census figures showing that 2.9% of Caerphilly residents were born outside the UK.

Footage of the exchange circulated widely on social media and was shared repeatedly during the remainder of the campaign.

Whittle went on to win the by-election, securing 47% of the vote.

Reform UK now argues that Vyas’s subsequent selection as a Plaid Cymru community council candidate raises questions over the impartiality of the BBC debate audience. The party has submitted a formal complaint to the broadcaster.

Party leader Nigel Farage described the development as “the final straw”, claiming it undermined confidence that Reform UK would receive fair

BLUE VIEW

With brian Murphy

I am pleased to be standing in the fishguard north East by-election which will be held on Tuesday 10th february 2026.

I have made this beautiful part of Pembrokeshire my home for over 25 years and am proud to have served the local community during that time. As a police officer in Fishguard I saw the challenges people faced daily. That motivated me to become a councillor on Fishguard & Goodwick Town Council and still motivates me today.

A bridge that was not needed and a waste of money.

and balanced treatment in BBC election coverage. Reform Wales regional director David Thomas also suggested the audience had been “curated” in a way that disadvantaged the party.

Plaid Cymru confirmed earlier this week that Vyas will stand as a community councillor in Caerphilly’s Van Ward, but said she was not a member or activist at the time of the BBC debate. Community council roles are voluntary and unpaid, and Van Ward is the area where she was raised.

Some commentators have drawn a link between Reform UK’s “plant” allegation and the fact that a clip of the audience member strongly challenging the party on immigration went viral during the campaign.

The BBC said it had received Reform UK’s complaint and defended its editorial processes.

A spokesperson said: “As with all BBC election debates, the audience was selected through an established and impartial vetting process designed to ensure a fair representation of political views. All participants were selected in line with our standard editorial guidelines.”

The dispute follows a period of tension between Reform UK and Welsh media outlets. The party declined to take part in the first BBC Radio Wales debate of the 2026 Senedd campaign, prompting criticism from other parties.

I have seen how the Welsh Government and Pembrokeshire County Council have ignored or rejected the wishes of Fishguard over the years. A particular example is the traffic problems in Lower Town.

For years I and others have asked Cardiff and PCC to address the issues people have to contend with. As well as the road being regularly blocked with lorries, caravans and buses, pedestrians are in constant danger crossing the bridge, as there is no dedicated footway. Plans and proposals have been submitted for a separate pedestrian bridge to be built next to the road bridge. However, these suggestions have been met with either silence or a dismissive “we will look at it”. Then nothing happens. A footbridge is a sensible solution to a serious road safety matter and will cost a fraction of the £5.7m spent on the “Instagrammable” bridge in Haverfordwest.

Other examples of wasteful spending by PCC are the building of a transport interchange, which doesn’t connect with train services. At a cost of around £20m, the exact figures are unclear, it will not bring in the results PCC would like. This is because at the same time they are building the interchange they are making more difficult for traders to stay in business. When the Labour Government are adding to businesses’ costs by raising National Insurance rates, increasing rates on premises, rising inflation on products, energy costs rising and other factors impacting trade it is no wonder the High Street is failing. This is on top of a 6.1% unemployment rate in Wales: the highest of all the UK nations. What we need is a climate of reducing costs and removing barriers, which will rejuvenate the economy. A simple measure is to make parking free and accessible, which will encourage shoppers to the High Street, and put money in the tills of shops. That has been proven already by the Conservative led North Lincolnshire Council. They made parking free in the town centre which led to a saving of £2.2m for shoppers to spend. And it has been replicated in the increased footfall and sales in shops.

Conservatives deliver real results for people.

SEND yOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

Pic Ture oF The week!

UNITED NATIONS REMAINS THE ONLy CREDIBLE FORUM

dEAR SIR,

In TER n ATI on AL diplomacy today appears increasingly futile, particularly when neither party to a conflict shows any genuine desire for a truce or for exploring the possibility of shared policies — even where compromise may come at a cost. yet even an imperfect truce, one that favours one side more than the other, would at least allow a direct comparison of ideas. That must surely be a better route to something more creative than war — to some form of shared ground. Instead, what we see is an almost total absence of self-criticism in the West, and likely in the East as well — a defining mark of bigotry. For years, viewers have been presented with endless television commentary in which thousands of adults from many nations confidently offer speculative and often childish assessments of Vladimir Putin’s personality, as if this

were a substitute for serious analysis.

These competing forms of bigotry are fostering hatred that will endure for generations.

I make no claim to superior knowledge. Like many commentators, I am largely ignorant of the full facts. However, unlike many, I am reluctant to dress opinion up as certainty. What motivates me instead is a belief in ethical standards, and a conviction that the United Nations remains the only credible forum through which any mechanism for a just peace might yet be found.

c

n W ESTERMA n

dEAR SIR,

A S the n ew year begins, we are urged once again to confront climate change. b ut doing so also means remaining alert to false solutions driven not by the public good, but by corporate profit.

Most people will not yet have heard of Stardust, an Israeli

Because geoengineering does nothing to address the root causes of climate change, these particles would need to be reinjected year after year. If deployment were ever halted, global temperatures would spike rapidly, creating what scientists call “termination shock” — a scenario even worse than unchecked warming.

From a purely capitalist perspective, this is an attractive business model: a captive market locked in for decades or even centuries, potentially controlled by states, alliances, or even a handful of wealthy individuals. The failure to cut greenhouse gas emissions becomes not a problem for such companies, but a commercial opportunity.

company developing solar geoengineering technology which it intends to sell to the highest bidder. The project was initially funded by AWZ, an Israeli-American-Canadian firm specialising in “security, intelligence, and technology”, with reported contracts involving the Israeli Ministry of Defence, the CIA, FBI, Mossad, and MI5. This alone should give pause.

Solar geoengineering has been subject to a UN Convention on Biological Diversity moratorium since 2010 because of the profound risks it poses to ecosystems and biodiversity. The activities announced by Stardust would violate the spirit of these decisions. They carry serious environmental side effects, exacerbate global inequality, and have a clear potential for military misuse.

Such interventions would inevitably create “winners” and “losers”: regions experiencing marginally lower temperatures at the expense of others suffering intensified droughts or flooding. The particles injected into the atmosphere would damage the ozone layer and eventually fall back to earth, where they are toxic to human health and the environment.

Solar geoengineering cannot be governed democratically in a world shaped by inequality, injustice, and geopolitical rivalry. That is why people everywhere must support calls for an international Solar Geoengineering Non-Use Agreement. At the same time, we must redouble efforts to tackle climate change at its source: investing in communitycontrolled renewable energy, ending support for fossil fuels and nuclear power, reducing meat consumption, and building sustainable public transport systems.

We know what needs to be done. Time is running out, and money cannot be eaten or drunk. As a New Year resolution, let us think globally — and act locally.

Love and peace, Angie Zelter

I WILL ALWAyS BE PROFOUNDLy GRATEFUL

dEAR SIR,

S H o RTLy after the Second World War, I was conscripted into the British Army and volunteered to serve in the Airborne Division. To qualify, I made eight parachute descents. Extra pay was one incentive, but far more important was this simple fact: my life depended entirely on the faultless professionalism of the WAAF girls who packed those parachutes.

Even the least intelligent person can understand that my hope of reward — and my very survival — rested completely in the hands

women I never met and never knew. Yet those young women lived and worked to standards so high that even the most hardened criminal could recognise their integrity. I owe them my long life, and that debt will never fade while I live.

Their dedication — serving others whose lives depended entirely on their care — taught me a lesson that shaped my own life. Each of us faces a choice: to live by such moral standards, or to imitate the selfcentred, greedy values promoted by billionaire Tory culture, values that condemn themselves by any ethical measure of human worth.

At the very least, those WAAF girls saved my life in more ways than one. They protected me — and others — not only from physical death, but from any hidden form of misogyny. For that, I will always be profoundly gratefu L .

c n . W ESTERMA n

SELF-INTEREST, IDENTITy, AND FEAR OF THE “OTHER”

dEAR SIR,

Muc H of today’s political debate is framed in terms of self-interest, identity, and fear of the “other”, rather than any shared sense of

moral obligation to one another. That shift has consequences far beyond party politics.

One stark example is blood donation. At some point in their lives, almost everyone may depend on donated blood to survive an accident, illness, or operation. Yet only a small fraction of the population is willing to give blood themselves.

This imbalance says something uncomfortable about modern Britain. We have become increasingly reluctant to act for the common good unless there is an immediate personal benefit. Previous generations understood civic duty as a normal part of life — not a favour, not a virtue, but a responsibility.

Appeals to abstract morality often fall flat in such a climate. But even on the narrowest, most self-interested terms, the logic is clear: the only way to ensure blood is available when you or your family need it is for enough people to be willing to donate before that moment arrives.

If we want a society that functions — one that looks after its most vulnerable and can rely on shared systems of care — then we must be prepared to contribute, not just consume. Blood donation is one of the simplest and most direct ways to do that.

c n W ESTERMA n

MILIBAND SOLAR ENERGy NONSENSE — CORRECTION

dEAR SIR,

f o R years, relatively cheap and reliable energy sources such as gas and nuclear have been financially penalised in order to fund the unattainable target of net zero emissions.

Monday, January 5 was a crisp, windy winter morning, and—as is usually the case at this time of year—the UK depended primarily on gas and nuclear power to keep homes warm. Against this backdrop, Ed Miliband’s renewed push to place even greater reliance on solar power appears deeply misguided.

According to Gridwatch UK figures at 10:00am that morning, power generation was as follows: gas 59%, nuclear 10%, wind 21%, biomass 7%, solar 3%, hydro 3% and other sources 4% (rounded figures total 107%). At the same time, the UK was exporting around 7% of its electricity—2% to Denmark, 1% to France, 2% to Northern Ireland and 1% to Ireland.

The key point is that solar contributed just 3%—and that

contribution disappears entirely from near dusk until after dawn. In 2020, a World Bank report ranked the UK 229th out of 230 countries for suitability for solar energy generation, with only Ireland performing worse.

One is left to ask whether Mr Miliband has access to scientific advisers—or even anyone who reads the data. Cold kills far more people than heat, and it may sadly take a winter mortality crisis to force a serious reassessment of solar-heavy energy policy. Prolonged periods of low wind and minimal sunlight are inevitable, and power shortages in winter are a real risk.

Finally, it defies logic that 7% of the UK’s electricity from the Drax biomass plant is classified as “green”. Remove biomass from the equation and, after three decades of subsidies for wind and solar, only around 27% of UK electricity comes from genuinely renewable sources. Drax remains the single largest carbon polluter in Britain—before even accounting for the felling of North American forests, pellet production, and transport to Yorkshire by oil-powered ships and lorries.

This is not progress. It is creative accounting.

T ERRy bREVERTon

death notices

C HRISTINE E VANS

I T is with great sadness to announce that she passed away peacefully on the 4th d ecember.

She was a dedicated Nurse Practitioner and is survived by her son Ben and is now resting with her daughter Rachel.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, January 23rd at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3:15pm.

Family flowers only, donations if desired, will be used to support The British Heart Foundation.

c/o W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR or via: www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

E LIZABETH Wy NNE R EES

pEA c E fu LLy on d ecember 23rd, Liz of Solva, aged 78 years.

Beloved wife of Gareth, a dearly loved mother of Cari and David, and much-loved mother-in-law of Fareed.

Funeral service Friday 16th January at 12 noon at the W.G.Mathias Chapel of Rest, St.Davids, followed by burial at Keeston Natural burial ground.

Donations if desired, for Alzheimers UK or Medical Aid for Palestininans c/o W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, 62 New Street, St.Davids, SA62 6SU

M ARGARET My FANW y W ILLIAMS

y n dawel ddydd Mawrth, Rhagfyr 23ain, yn y sbyty g langwili, c aerfyrddin, Margaret, c ilowen, Login, Hengwyn ar d af. p riod hoff y diweddar John chwaer y diweddar annwyl b etty fach, mam addfwyn Dion, Beti a Geraint, Siǎn a Puw, mamgu, hen-famgu ag hen,henfamgu gariadus.

Angladd gyhoeddus yng Nghapel Calfaria, Login, Ddydd Mercher Ionawr 14eg am 12.30 o’r gloch. Blodau teulu yn unig. Rhoddion os dymunir tuag at Meddygfa Taf, trwy law Ken Davies a’i Feibion, Blaenwern, Bro Waldo, Clunderwen. Tel: 01437 563319.

W ENDy A NN J ONES

Sudd E n Ly but peacefully at her home on Wednesday 24th d ecember, Wendy of Mathry.

Beloved wife of Tom, she will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

Funeral service on Friday 16th January at the Chapel of Rest, Feidr Castell, Fishguard at 2pm.

No flowers by request.

Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Fishguard. Tel: 01348 873250.

K EITH M ASON

T HE death occurred suddenly but peacefully on Monday 15th d ecember 2025 of Mr Keith Mason, aged 72 years of Hill f arm, g rove Hill, p embroke.

Dearly loved Keith will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.

The funeral service will take place on Friday 9th January 2026 at St. Caradoc’s Church, Lawrenny at 2.00pm followed by interment in the Church Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Keith for Wales Air Ambulance and Sandy Bears Bereavement Charity c/o E. C. Thomas and Son, Zoar Chapel Funeral

Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 and 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 or via www.ecthomasandson.co.uk

A NNA F LETCHER

Ann A f letcher of Milford Haven, formerly of n arberth, passed away at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on 19th d ecember 2025 after a sudden illness.

Anna was the beloved and devoted wife of Garry Scott Fletcher, together for 42 years, and wonderful mother to a large and cherished family with many children and grandchildren, who all adored her.

She was an accomplished artist, gardener and lover of nature and wildlife with a life-long, rich interest in the arts and music.

The funeral takes place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on 15th January at 12.15pm, followed by a celebration of her life at St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot.

There will be family flowers only. Donations in memory if desired can be made to The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, directly to their website (charity number 1091562)

Funeral Arrangements are being conducted by E. C. Thomas and Son, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 and 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 or via www. ecthomasandson.co.uk

G ILL N ICHOLLS

gILL n icholls of p embroke (formerly of the Midlands) passed away peacefully at her home on 21st d ecember 2025.

Gill was the much loved wife of Bernard Nicholls (deceased), mum to Sian (deceased) and Sarah, father in law to David, sister to Eileen (deceased) and Jean, companion to Donald Evans and wonderful aunty to Jamie, Jo, Laura, Noah, Ruth, Glen, Ben, Liam, Max, Georgie, Felix, Leon, Jacob and Millie.

Gill is missed so much and will leave a huge gap in our lives and our hearts.

Gill’s funeral service will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth SA67 8UD on Monday 19th January at 13:00.

Cold start to the year could prompt wood mice to head indoors

A coLd start to 2026 could tempt wood mice to seek food and shelter indoors, say experts at national trade body, british pest control Association (bpcA).

Wood mice generally prefer to be outdoors, but cold weather can drive them indoors where they may contaminate food items, damage wiring and cause nocturnal nuisance.

Householders in Wales who discover a mouse has moved in need to carefully identify the species, as it is illegal to use rodenticides to control wood mice.

Niall Gallagher is Technical Manager at BPCA. He said: “Wood mice are happiest outdoors, but they don’t hibernate during the winter, so when temperatures drop, they will seek warmth and food indoors.

“Prevention is always better than cure, so plugging any gaps around cable and pipe entry points, or doors and windows, is a key first step, alongside making sure bins are securely closed at all times.

“Food spills or crumbs should be cleared away immediately, and food needs to be stored securely to avoid encouraging mice inside.”

Signs that mice have ventured indoors include dark droppings the size of a grain of rice found inside kitchen cupboards or around baseboards, gnaw marks on food packaging, and sounds of scratching, squeaking or scurrying inside walls, ceilings and attics, particularly at night.

Niall added: “If wood mice have settled in your home, it’s really important to take action quickly. They can contaminate food and surfaces and will shed dander and hair, which can trigger allergic reactions.

“Mouse droppings in food storage areas bring a risk of

Salmonella, while wood mice can also carry the bacterial infection Leptospirosis, along with fleas, ticks and mites that can be transferred to people and pets.

“While they are less destructive than house mice, they can still damage cabling or insulation through their gnawing and nesting activities.

“Mouse activity at this time of year should be monitored by someone who can accurately identify the species. It is illegal to control wood mice using anticoagulants or rodenticides, which are not approved for that species, as this brings the risk of

secondary poisoning to wildlife such as owls and kestrels.

“We advise getting help from a BPCA member who will have access to a range of non-toxic products and methods and can create a plan that is compliant and effective.”

BPCA member businesses are endorsed by the Government via the TrustMark quality scheme as they must carry the correct insurances and are trained and qualified technicians who are assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636 and follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice.

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TEarly strike seals Bridge victory over Pennar

MERLInS bRIdgE made the perfect start as an early goal from youngster Iwan Howells proved decisive in a hardfought win over pennar Robins.

The visitors endured a nightmare opening, conceding inside two minutes after a defensive mix-up and stray pass were punished by Howells, who rifled a fine strike home from 20 yards.

Pennar responded positively and enjoyed the majority of possession during the opening half-hour, though clear-cut chances were at a premium, with efforts largely restricted to half-open opportunities around the edge of the penalty area.

The final 15 minutes of the first half opened up into an entertaining, end-to-end spell. Pennar goalkeeper Ryeley Clark produced an outstanding double save in a one-on-one situation to deny Bridge a second goal and keep his side firmly in contention.

After the break, Mike Preddy’s Bridge side looked to disrupt Pennar’s shape, but it was the visitors who continued to dominate possession and the midfield battle. Bridge, however, remained disciplined, sitting deep and compact to absorb sustained pressure.

Despite enjoying plenty of the ball, Pennar struggled to convert possession into meaningful chances. A series of aerial deliveries were dealt with comfortably by Bridge centre-backs and skipper Jordan Thomas alongside Morgan Richards, while several low crosses flashed across goal without finding a finishing touch.

Bridge carried a threat on the counter and almost doubled their lead when Sam Nicholas somehow fired over from just three yards out – an effort that seemed harder to miss than score.

Pennar’s best chance arrived when substitute Noah Davison was played through by the influential Tom Grimwood, but his one-on-one effort drifted narrowly wide of Ben Henton’s far post from 18 yards. Shortly afterwards, Connor Willis squandered another good opening from close range, failing to bring the ball under control with five minutes remaining.

The Bridge defence stood firm to the final whistle, preserving their slender advantage and securing all three points.

Merlins bridge: Ben Henton, Billy Martin, Andrew John, Jordan Thomas (capt), Matthew Richards, Jamie Palmer, Sam Nicholas, Dai Davies, Matthew D’Ivry, Nathan Evans, Iwan Howells. Subs: Liam Manwaring, Peter Thomas, Mike Preddy. pennar Robins: Ryeley Clark, Nick Willis, Adam Phillips, Bobby Jones, Connor Roberts, Tom Grimwood, Ceri Griffiths, Kieran Smith, Joey Jones, Sean Edmundson, Toby Davies. Subs: Noah Davison, Connor Willis, Alex Wheeler, Ross Vincent.

Four-goal salvo from red-hot Christopher lifts Carew

carew 4–2 clarbeston Road

SAM cHRISTopHER was the star of the show at the gerald Hicks Recreation Ground, firing four goals as Carew claimed a crucial victory over ten-man clarbeston Road.

The result was just the start to the New Year Carew could have hoped for. Although they remain second from bottom, they are now level on points with Fishguard Sports, who boast the superior goal difference.

The Rooks were full value for their 2–0 half-time lead. James Hinchliffe provided the assist for Christopher’s opener after ten minutes, before Marcus Griffiths set him up again right on the stroke of the interval.

Christopher completed his hat-trick just a minute into the second half, only for Clarbeston Road to respond through Travis Jones. However, the visitors’ hopes were dealt a major blow moments later when Jones was sent off for a second yellow card.

On the hour mark, Christopher struck again to cap a superb individual performance. Clarbeston Road grabbed a late consolation through Matthew Griffiths, but the Rooks were well worth their three points.

Rhys Lewis, Harry Peniket, James Hinchliffe (capt), Ross Jones. Subs: Mohamed Maamri, Sam Goodwin.

clarbeston Road: Rhys Mansell, Matthew Bowen, Joe Jones, Matthew Ellis, Matthew Griffiths, Sam Hurton (capt), Travis Jones, Greg Brown, Richard Bevan, Jack Ashman, Jake Wesley. Subs: Robert Reed-Griffiths.

Swifts run riot at Jesse Road

narberth 0–7 Monkton Swifts

MonKTon SWIfTS began the new year in emphatic fashion with a sevengoal demolition of narberth at Jesse Road.

The victory marked the Swifts’ eighth league win of the campaign and leaves them sitting second in the table, while Narberth remain ninth.

The visitors dominated the opening 45 minutes, racing into a commanding 6–0 halftime lead. Dan James and Dylan Davies struck inside the first 25 minutes before Gareth Finnegan and Billy Davies added two more in quick succession.

James then netted twice more in the 40th and 42nd minutes to complete a clinical firsthalf hat-trick.

Narberth showed greater resilience after the interval and limited the damage, conceding just one further goal – Dylan Davies’ second of the afternoon.

narberth: Daniel James, Jordan Preece, Brychan David (capt), Lewis Bansal, Conor Bowen, Jacob Layfield, Jamie Thomas, Luke Evans, Billy Phillips, Ryan Williams, Ashley Williams. Subs: Ashley Bantock, Dafydd Wright.

Monkton Swifts: Taylor Gullam, Billy Abrahams, Jack Clarke, Rhys Davis, Jay Kilby, Liam Butland, Billy Davies, Gareth Finnegan, Dylan Davies, Jamie Finnegan, Daniel James. Subs: Paul Miller, James Russell.

manderwood Pembrokeshire league

division

division

division Three

Camrose Reserves v Pennar Robins II Haverfordwest

v Tenby II

Pendine v Clarbeston Road Res

division Four

Fishguard Sports Res v Manorbier United

Milford Athletic v Newport Tigers

Milford United Res v Neyland Reserves

Prendergast Villa v Angle Solva Reserves v Hundleton

division Five

Broad Haven Res v N Hedges Saundersfoot II

Lawrenny Res v Haverfordwest CC Res

Milford United III v Kilgetty III

Narberth Reserves v Prendergast Villa II

Pembroke Boro Res v Letterston Res

St Clears Res v Herbrandston Res

“A huge weight has been lifted, but I still have a lot to prove”

THE Wales star has returned to rugby with bristol bears after ending his nfL dream, and he’s hitting the ground running.

Louis Rees-Zammit has spoken candidly about leaving behind his ambition to play in the NFL, describing his return to rugby as “a weight off the shoulders” as he aims to rediscover his top form for both Bristol Bears and Wales.

The former Gloucester wing stunned the rugby world when he quit on the eve of the 2024 Six Nations to pursue American football. He flew to the United States and joined the NFL’s international player pathway programme, chasing a childhood dream.

After impressing on the programme, Rees-Zammit secured a deal with the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, before joining the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad.

Despite praise from coaches, he never broke into the active roster and, in July, announced his return to rugby after 18 months away, having only featured in three pre-season games for the Chiefs.

Since resuming his rugby career, Rees-Zammit has made an impressive start, scoring six tries in nine

appearances for Bristol and adding two more for Wales during the autumn internationals. Under director of rugby Pat Lam, he has been transitioned from the wing to full-back, quickly impressing

teammates and fans alike. His impact earned him a new long-term contract with the Bears earlier this month.

While Rees-Zammit has largely settled back into the sport and reclaimed his place in the national squad, he acknowledges there is still much to achieve, with the Six Nations fast approaching.

“Yeah, I’ve still got to prove a lot,” he told the David Spear podcast. “I never try to get too comfortable, because as soon as you start getting comfortable, that’s when others overtake you.

“I’ve only played what, seven or eight games this year, and I still don’t think I’m up to my potential. I want to make more of an impact and, now I’m back from injury, get a good few games in for Bristol and play well. Then we’ll see.”

Reflecting on his NFL exit, ReesZammit described returning to rugby as “a massive weight off the shoulders,” admitting he had missed being part of matches.

“It’s not even about proving myself, to be honest,” he said. “It’s just about enjoying playing rugby. I didn’t play for 18 months and I missed it a lot. Being able to come back and just play rugby again – it felt like a weight had lifted.

“The day I left the NFL, that weight was gone, and it was like, ‘Right, let’s focus on getting a club, playing rugby and enjoying it.’ I just felt like a little boy again.”

The Welshman added: “I wasn’t happy training all week and then not playing at the weekend. I love playing the game because you get to be involved in a match. That’s what I missed.

“In the NFL, unless the quarterback throws you the ball, you might not touch it all game. In rugby, you can get involved, try to get as many touches as possible. That’s what I missed. It came down to a decision: do I want to continue? I decided to come back, and I’m very happy.”

Although his American football experiment did not work out, the 24-year-old has no regrets and believes his time in the NFL has added “more strings to [his] bow” that will benefit his rugby.

“I learned a lot about my body,” he explained. “I was 22 when I left, so I matured a lot over those two years and grew physically. Before, I relied on my speed. Now I’ve got more tools – agility, power, strength – all things I picked up in the NFL, which definitely help on the rugby field.”

Cymru Eyes Back-to-Back World Cup Glory

cyMRu are on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 fIfA World cup, but the path ahead will be far from easy. Having finished second in UEFA group J behind belgium, cymru narrowly missed out on automatic qualification and now face the uncertainty of the European play-offs.

To reach North America, Cymru must first overcome Bosnia-Herzegovina in a one-off semifinal on 26 March 2026 in Cardiff. A victory would set up the play-off final on 31 March, with the winner securing a place at the tournament.

The stakes could not be higher. Back-to-back World Cup appearances would mark a historic achievement for Cymru, following their return to the competition in 2022 after a 64-year absence. Fans across the nation are already imagining stadiums filled with chants and celebrations if Cymru can navigate this demanding route to qualification.

The 2026 tournament, running from Thursday 11 June to Sunday 19 July, promises to be the largest and most ambitious in World Cup history. For the first time, it will be co-hosted by three nations — the United States, Mexico, and Canada — with 16 cities across North America staging 104 matches. Iconic venues include Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, and BMO Field in Toronto. The tournament opens at Estadio Azteca on 11 June, with the final at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey on 19 July.

This World Cup will be bigger and more competitive than ever. The number of teams has expanded from 32 to 48, and a new Round of 32 guarantees additional knockout drama. Canada will host the men’s tournament for the first time, while

Who

are

the three-nation co-hosting arrangement marks an historic first.

For Cymru, the play-off matches in March could define the summer. A semi-final victory at home would lead to the decisive play-off final, with the winner claiming the right to compete on the global stage. Young Welsh talents, including Harry Wilson and Brennan Johnson, will be pivotal if Cymru is to succeed. Former Wales international Chris Gunter said: “This is the perfect moment for Cymru to make its mark.”

Beyond qualification, the 2026 World Cup represents a chance for Cymru to shine internationally. National pride is at stake, and supporters are already preparing to travel across continents, joining millions of fans worldwide. From Swansea to Wrexham, supporters will be planning flights, watch parties, and celebrations for a summer that could once again see Cymru celebrated on football’s biggest stage.

North America offers a unique backdrop. Massive stadiums in the United States promise record attendances, while the geography — stretching from Mexico City to Vancouver — presents both challenges and unforgettable cultural experiences. Economically, the continent is bracing for a football tourism boom, with millions expected to attend matches. Whether cheering in Dallas, Toronto, or Mexico City, Cymru supporters are set to share in an extraordinary sporting spectacle.

March will be crucial for Cymru. The semi-final and play-off final will decide whether they secure a place at the 2026 World Cup. For supporters, the dream of back-to-back appearances is alive, but the journey will demand resilience, focus, and a bit of Welsh luck.

the favourites to Lift the World Cup?

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just months away, the footballing world is already abuzz with predictions. Set to be the largest and most ambitious tournament in history, the competition will feature 48 teams across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. As the buildup intensifies, certain nations have emerged as clear favourites to lift the trophy in North America.

brazil: The Eternal contenders

It would be impossible to discuss World Cup favourites without mentioning Brazil. The five-time champions possess a blend of flair, experience, and depth that few can match. The Seleção’s squad combines established stars with emerging talents, and their attacking prowess has made them perennial contenders. If history is anything to go by, Brazil’s creativity and clinical finishing make them a team that no opposition can afford to underestimate.

france: defending champions with depth

France will enter 2026 as reigning champions, following their victory in 2022. Les Bleus boast one of the most talented squads in world football, with a mix of youth and experience across all positions. Their pace on the wings, strength in midfield, and lethal strike force give them a balanced and dynamic edge. If France can maintain their cohesion and avoid complacency, they are likely to make another deep run.

Argentina: Messi’s Legacy and beyond While 2022 marked the swansong of Lionel Messi on the World Cup stage, Argentina remains a formidable force. With a golden generation coming through alongside established stars, La Albiceleste combines creativity, technical skill, and resilience. Their tactical discipline and flair make them capable of both dazzling football and grinding out results in tense matches — a combination that has served them well historically.

germany: Experience and organisation Germany are always a serious contender.

Known for their tactical discipline, depth of squad, and relentless work ethic, Die Mannschaft have the experience to navigate the pressures of a long tournament. While they are rebuilding after mixed results in recent competitions, their coaching and organisational strength mean they cannot be overlooked.

Spain: possession Masters Ready to Strike

Spain’s style of controlled, possessionbased football has matured into a highly effective system. La Roja’s focus on technical skill and quick, intelligent passing allows them to dominate games and break down even the toughest defences. With a generation of talented midfielders and forwards hitting their prime, Spain will be a difficult side to defeat in 2026. other contenders

Beyond the traditional heavyweights, several nations could spring surprises. England, with a young and talented squad, have shown they can compete at the highest level.