The Pembrokeshire Herald 15/05/2026

Violent man jailed after ‘Banksy’ claims and campaign of domestic abuse

A PEMBROKESHIRE woman told a court she wished her former partner had killed her after enduring a campaign of violence and coercive control by a man who claimed to be Banksy.

Patrick Smyth, 49, of Oaks Avenue, Romford, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday to 22 months in custody after admitting coercive and controlling behaviour and two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Smyth met the woman while on holiday in Tunisia in 2024 and later travelled from Essex to visit her in Haverfordwest.

Thomas Scapens KC, prosecuting, said Smyth quickly began mentally and physically abusing her. He checked her phone, isolated her from friends and family, and installed a phone tracking app which he controlled under the username “Powerful 666”.

He also claimed he was Banksy, the world-famous street artist, telling the victim he was powerful, wealthy and well connected.

“He copied Banksy’s signature and presented it to her, and she believed everything he told her,” Mr Scapens said.

The court heard that Smyth’s abuse escalated during a trip to Cardiff in July 2025, when the couple attended a concert. Smyth lost his temper and had to be removed by security.

Later, at the Coal Exchange hotel, he locked the victim in a room and placed a chair under the door handle to stop her leaving.

“He beat her continuously,” said Mr Scapens. “He put his hand around her throat to prevent her breathing.”

Hotel staff heard him calling her a “slag” and later saw reddening to her neck. They moved the woman to another room for her safety, but Smyth repeatedly tried to force his way inside, banging on the door and shouting.

Staff contacted the woman’s son, who worked in Cardiff. When he arrived, he became emotional after seeing her condition.

In September 2025, Smyth threw the woman into a wardrobe, fracturing two of her ribs. The following month, despite being on bail with a condition not to contact her, he turned up at her home.

“He pushed past her, tied her to a chair in the kitchen and turned off the lights,” said Mr Scapens.

The court heard Smyth refused to let her use the toilet and told her men were coming from London to put her in a pre-dug grave.

The final incident happened in October after the couple visited

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

Morrisons in Haverfordwest. Smyth became aggressive in the store and threw shopping items at the victim. Concerned staff asked a security guard to shadow them.

During the taxi journey home, Smyth threatened to break the woman’s legs and punch her. When the taxi driver intervened, Smyth threatened to break his legs too.

Later that evening, a 999 call was made. No one spoke, but officers could hear a woman screaming and a man’s voice in the background.

When police arrived, they found the victim with cuts to her head. She was extremely upset and tried to hide her face in her roll-neck jumper.

When asked what had happened, she said: “I would in a heartbeat, but I can’t.” The court heard this was because Smyth was listening outside.

In a victim impact statement read to Judge Catherine Richards, the woman said her life had been “fundamentally scarred”.

“I hid my injuries away from other family members because I was scared,” she said.

“I’m scared to go out in case Patrick is there. I don’t treat life the same way anymore and I don’t leave the house by myself.

“It got to the point where I wish Patrick had killed me because I’d prefer to be dead. I’ll never be the same again.”

Smyth appeared by video link from prison, where he had been remanded since his arrest.

His barrister said he “wishes no bad

will on the victim” and had reflected on his behaviour.

“He wishes to apologise,” she said. “He has no intention of making any further form of contact with her.

Custody has acted as a wake-up call.” Sentencing Smyth to 22 months in custody, Judge Richards said half would be served in prison and the remainder on licence.

Sewage protest to be held at Broad Haven

PUBLIC protestors will gather at Broad Haven this weekend as part of a UK-wide campaign demanding urgent action over sewage pollution.

The Paddle Out Protest, organised by Surfers Against Sewage, will take place at Broad Haven North Beach at 1:30pm on Saturday (May 16).

It is one of more than 50 protests being held at beaches, rivers and lakes across the UK.

Campaigners say public anger is growing over sewage discharges, water bills and what they describe as

a lack of accountability in the water industry.

Other Welsh protests will be held at Caswell Bay, Swansea; Llyn Padarn, Llanberis; Coney Beach, Porthcawl; Whitmore Bay, Barry Island; and North Beach, Aberystwyth.

Surfers Against Sewage says new polling shows more than half of people in the UK are worried they could become ill from swimming in rivers,

lakes or seas because of poor water quality.

Kate Bassett-Jones, Broad Haven protest lead, said: “Our local beach saw 116 sewage alerts in 2025 alone – that’s pollution warnings every three days.

“For a place renowned for its stunning coastline and thriving marine environment, this should not be happening.

“Local people should be able to enjoy the sea safely all year round, and visitors should not have to worry about getting sick when they come to Pembrokeshire.

“Communities are fed up with sewage pollution being treated as normal. Enough is enough.”

Surfers Against Sewage said Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water discharged sewage more than 100,000 times in 2025, for more than 813,000 hours.

The charity is calling for legally binding targets to end untreated sewage discharges, stronger enforcement powers and funding for Natural Resources Wales, and yearround water quality testing.

Giles Bristow, chief executive of Surfers Against Sewage, said Wales’ water system was “catastrophically failing”.

He said: “We are paddling out across Wales to show the newly elected Welsh Government that we won’t back down until it takes the action needed to end the sewage crisis plaguing Wales’ wild waters.”

The protests come at the start of the bathing season and follow the announcement of a Clean Water Bill in the King’s Speech.

Port and Crown Estate join forces to tackle marine fly-tipping

A JOINT operation has been launched to tackle marine flytipping and derelict vessels in the Milford Haven Waterway.

The Port of Milford Haven and The Crown Estate are working together on a pilot project focused on Castle Pill, where abandoned boats and illegally dumped waste have become a growing problem.

Castle Pill is a tidal inlet linked directly to the main port channel. Officials say derelict and poorly managed vessels in the area pose increasing risks to maritime safety, port operations and the environment.

The project will include monitoring, enforcement and removal work, as well as measures aimed at preventing further fly-tipping.

At least five derelict vessels are due to be removed from Castle Pill. The Port says they are at immediate risk of breaking free during spring tides and drifting into the main navigational channel.

Brian Macfarlane, Harbour Patrol Officer at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Derelict vessels are a serious and unpredictable safety and environmental risk.

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“Unlit and poorly maintained boats can break free, sink, or drift into navigational channels with little warning, endangering crews, disrupting port operations, and threatening the environmentally protected waters of the Milford Haven Waterway.”

Portfolio Manager at The Crown Estate, said: “Caring for our marine and coastal environment is vital so future generations can continue to benefit.

Ryan Pratt, Coastal and Leisure

“This partnership provides a practical, effective response to flytipping and abandoned vessels, helping to protect sensitive habitats and the people who depend on safe, reliable waterways.”

The project forms part of a wider commitment to environmental protection, pollution prevention and the safe management of marine assets across the Milford Haven Waterway.

Man threatens to torch Silverdale Lodge through ‘demon drink’, court hears

A man has been sentenced for threatening to set fire to the Silverdale Lodge homeless shelter, Johnson, following a night of binge drinking.

This week Haverfordwest magistrates were told that at around 7am on May 2, Billy Pitman, 29, left the Silverdale Lodge in a highly intoxicated state, and entered one of the local shops where he began accusing the shopkeeper of shortchanging him as he attempted to purchase some items. Pitman then proceeded to unleash a foul-mouthed assault on the shopkeeper.

“This had a huge impact on the staff member as they immediately reported the matter to the police,” said Crown Prosecutor, Sian Vaughan.

After leaving the shop, Pitman returned to the Silverdale Lodge where he began unleashing his aggression on a member of staff.

“Once again he became aggressive, and started hurling racial insults at the staff member, telling them to go back to their own country,” continued Sian Vaughan.

“His behaviour escalated and he told them he’d smash the door down and set fire to the property.”

Ms Vaughan said the defendant’s

sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email

comments had a strong impact on the Silverdale employee.

“ It made me feel very uncomfortable as the racist comments were totally unacceptable and uncalled for,” the employee said in a victim impact statement read out to the court.

As a result of Pitman’s behaviour, police firearms officers were summoned to attend and the defendant was arrested and conveyed to Haverfordwest police station. But once again, his behaviour spiralled out of control.

When he was put inside the cell, he proceeded to put items into the sink causing it to flood.

Pitman pleaded guilty to

threatening to damage or destroy property at Silverdale Lodge; causing racially or religiously aggravated harassment, alarm or distress to the staff member; causing criminal damage to the police cell, and using threatening or insulting words or behaviour to the shopworker. He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who stressed the defendant’s actions were the result of his ‘drink demons’.

“The defendant has huge periods of stability and is a very well thought of individual,” he said. “But sometimes he has demons when he consumes alcohol, and can’t control his behaviour. This is something he’s keen to address and he wants help.”

Mr Lloyd added that the defendant has since returned to the Silverdale Lodge to apologise for his behaviour on May 2.

Pitman, who is currently of no fixed abode, was sentenced to a 12-month community order during which he must complete 200 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was ordered to pay £100 compensation to both the shopkeeper and the Silverdale Lodge employee, £120 court costs and a £114 surcharge.

Concern grows after child hospitalised following swim

CONCERN is growing in Pembrokeshire after a parent claimed their child was admitted to hospital after swimming in the sea at Tenby.

The post, shared in a local Tenby Facebook group, said the family had visited the resort between Monday and Thursday, with the boy swimming in the sea on Tuesday (May 6).

His parent wrote: “My son swam in the sea on the 6th and the next morning came down with terrible sickness and diarrhoea — he’s been very unwell since and has tonight been admitted to hospital.”

They added: “It’s terrible we can’t swim in our seas and rivers safely anymore. Please be aware.”

The post prompted hundreds of reactions and dozens of comments, with many people expressing sympathy for the family and others raising wider concerns about sewage pollution and water quality around the Pembrokeshire coast.

One commenter said: “This is a national disgrace, please put in a written complaint to Dŵr Cymru and Natural Resources Wales.”

Another asked: “Why were there no signs put up on the beaches to warn people it was unsafe to swim in?”

Others claimed they or family members had suffered illness after swimming at locations including Tenby, Amroth, Newgale and Coppet Hall.

One person wrote: “I got sepsis from a cut in Newgale surfing. Took six weeks in hospital and seven months recovery and still not right to get over it.”

Another said: “Please check with your son’s doctors regarding E.coli and a condition called HUS, which can develop from E.coli. My daughter swam at Amroth in 2022 after a sewage incident in the area and became seriously ill.”

No medical evidence has been published linking the latest reported illness directly to seawater exposure, and there is currently no official confirmation that conditions at Tenby caused the child’s illness.

However, the post has reignited anger over sewage discharges, pollution alerts and the information available to visitors and local people before entering the water.

COUNCIL RESPONSE

However, Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed that the only current “abnormal situation” officially notified to the authority relates to Lydstep Haven — not Tenby beaches.

In a statement to The Herald, the council said it was first notified by Natural Resources Wales on Wednesday (May 6) that NRW was declaring an abnormal situation at Lydstep Haven.

The council said a Facebook warning advising people not to swim was issued the same day.

Officers from the council’s Pollution Control Team attended the beach within two hours and installed warning signs at “appropriate locations”.

The authority confirmed the signs remained in place as of Monday morning (May 11).

Pembrokeshire County Council also said it had “not received any notifications or confirmed reports of health impacts associated with the incident.”

The council added that the notification from NRW related “only to Lydstep Haven”.

The authority continues to advise people not to swim at Lydstep Haven “until further notice”.

NRW is understood to still be investigating the cause of the incident.

LydSTEP WARNINg

The concern follows a recent warning at Lydstep Haven after Natural Resources Wales informed Pembrokeshire County Council of an “abnormal situation” which could temporarily affect bathing water quality.

Pembrokeshire County Council said officers from its Pollution Control

Team had placed warning notices at various locations around the beach, temporarily advising against bathing while the matter was investigated.

Some residents questioned whether warnings were clear enough, particularly during busy holiday periods.

One commenter wrote: “Why aren’t there any warnings to holiday makers and visitors to our local area? It’s not fair that they find out information after someone becomes ill.”

Another said: “There should be notices and announcements on the beaches if there is an outage.”

Others pointed out that Surfers Against Sewage’s water quality app was not showing an active alert for Tenby itself, and suggested some online comments may have confused the current Lydstep warning with previous pollution notices affecting beaches in the Tenby area.

PROTEST AT BROAd HAvEN

The issue comes less than a week before campaigners stage a Surfers Against Sewage paddle-out protest at Broad Haven.

The protest is due to take place on Saturday, May 16, at 1:30pm, as part of a UK-wide day of action calling for an end to sewage pollution in rivers and seas.

Surfers Against Sewage says communities across the UK will gather

on beaches, riverbanks and in the water to demand stronger action on sewage pollution.

The campaign group said: “We are sick of it. Sick of the lies, sick of the greed and sick of a system that’s rigged against us.”

A large banner has already been placed on Broad Haven seafront encouraging people to attend the protest.

TOURISM CONCERNS

The row has also raised concerns about the potential impact on Pembrokeshire’s tourism industry, with Tenby, Broad Haven, Newgale and other seaside communities heavily dependent on visitors during the spring and summer months.

One commenter wrote: “Not very good for a holiday destination is it.”

Another said: “Tourism will be massively affected by incidents like this, and people’s health and lives are being put at risk.”

Others called for stronger action from Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.

The Herald has approached Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water for comment.

PARC Against DARC Campaigners ask Welsh Government to call in planning application

PARC AgAINST dARC has submitted an official request asking the new Welsh government to call in the planning application for the proposed dARC radar array in Pembrokeshire.

The campaign group, which was set up in 2024 to oppose the US militarylinked Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability project, says the decision is too significant to be left to Pembrokeshire County Council alone.

Campaigners say the development, proposed for Cawdor Barracks near Brawdy, would have national implications for Wales, the environment, tourism, the local economy and military strategy.

The request follows the appointment of Rhun ap Iorwerth as Wales’ new First Minister and the naming of Siân Gwenllian as Cabinet Secretary for Local Government, Housing and Planning.

PARC said the election of a Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government marked “an extremely promising step forward” for the campaign, citing Plaid’s previous opposition to the scheme.

PLANNINg dECISION

The Ministry of Defence submitted the planning application for the radar array to Pembrokeshire County Council in April.

The application is currently open for public comments, with the publicity period running until Wednesday (May 20).

The DARC project would involve the construction of 27 radar dishes close to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Campaigners have described the proposal as a “military monstrosity” and claim it would allow the United States to project military power into space from Welsh soil.

They also dispute claims that the scheme would bring major local employment benefits, saying the MOD’s

the proposal.

own environmental information describes the number of jobs as “low” and “not significant”.

PARC argues that any limited job creation would be outweighed by the removal of hundreds of personnel from Cawdor Barracks.

‘CALL IT IN’

The campaign says the Welsh Government should take over the decision because of the scale and significance of

In its request, PARC argues that DARC is “clearly a nationally significant development” and should be considered in the wider context of Wales’ national priorities.

The group is urging members of the public to use its online tool to ask Welsh ministers to call in the application.

PARC said: “We are thrilled that Plaid Cymru, an anti-DARC government, has taken the reins in Cardiff.

“The election of the new Welsh Government is a huge and seismic development from our perspective.

“Today, as we submit our official callin request to the newly formed Welsh

administration, we know that as we fight to save our precious St Davids peninsula from being turned into a massive military target, we do so in the knowledge that the party in control of Wales has a proud and strong history of standing up for the people of Wales and standing for peace.”

PUBLIC OPPOSITION

PARC says public opposition remains overwhelming.

The campaign claims that an updated MOD consultation summary shows 498 public responses were received, with 401 using PARC’s template objection email and the remaining summarised comments also appearing to oppose the scheme.

The group says it is preparing a 150,000-word planning objection, covering visual, economic, military, strategic and consultation concerns.

Campaigners also point to protests, widespread media coverage and a petition with around 19,000 signatures opposing the project.

Plaid Cymru figures have previously spoken against DARC.

In April 2024, Cefin Campbell tabled a statement of opinion in the Senedd opposing the proposal, while Plaid Westminster leader Liz Saville-Roberts later submitted an Early Day Motion at Westminster.

Mr Campbell said at the time: “Plaid Cymru has a long and honourable history of promoting peace around the globe and opposing militarism at every level.

“We cannot therefore support the construction of DARC and give space to American militarism on our land.”

PARC said the campaign was “still far from won” but had taken “a huge step change in the right direction” following the election result.

Helen Rees marks 25 years of service with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue

DEDICATED fire service worker

Helen Rees is celebrating 25 years with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Helen, who works in procurement, joined the Service in 2001 as a Water Assistant. Since then, she has helped build what was once a non-existent procurement function into a highperforming, award-winning team. Her achievements include being named Individual of the Year at the More Than Just Fires Awards in 2022, receiving high commendations at the GO Wales Procurement Awards, and being awarded Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply in 2024.

Helen said one of her earliest memories was being called to the Chief Fire Officer’s office just days after starting, fearing something was wrong, only to find that CFO Ronnie King personally

welcomed every new starter.

She has since worked from a portacabin at Uncheldir, moved to House No. 3 at Lime Grove, and later became one of the first members of staff to move into the Service’s new headquarters.

Helen said: “There have been many moments that have made me feel really proud working for MAWWFRS – both from my own individual achievements, but even more so the achievements of my amazing procurement team. We’re small but perfectly formed!”

Assistant Chief Officer Mydrian Harries said: “Helen’s unwavering devotion to her role has seen her grow into a respected and influential leader within the public procurement profession.

“Her achievements stand as a testament to a lifetime of dedication, something we are all proud of. Yet beyond her accomplishments, there is also the

Archaeological discovery at former Priory Hospital site in Cardigan

REMAINS of 42 people have been recovered from the site of Cardigan’s former Priory Hospital during ongoing housing development works.

The discovery is being described by local historians as one of the most significant finds linked to the town’s medieval past in recent memory.

The human remains, believed to date from the medieval period, were uncovered by Archaeology Wales during excavations ahead of a Wales and West Housing scheme to transform the historic Priory House site into new homes, a café and office space.

The burials include adults, children and infants. They were laid east to west, in keeping with Christian tradition. Some appear to have been buried in plain wooden coffins, while at least one may have been placed in a stone slate cist.

Gareth Thomas, Head of Development at Wales and West Housing, updated Cardigan town councillors on the discovery, confirming that 42 bodies had so far been recovered.

The remains have been carefully removed for specialist analysis and are expected to be re-interred on consecrated ground at St Mary’s Church.

A LAyEREd HISTORy

The Priory Hospital site has a long and complex history.

It was originally home to a 12thcentury Benedictine priory, before later becoming a Regency villa designed by the renowned architect John Nash.

In the 20th century, it served as Cardigan’s war memorial hospital before falling into disuse.

The current development aims to

bring the site back into use while dealing with its deep historical significance.

Local historian Glen Johnson has welcomed the discovery, but has also raised concerns about the pace of work and the possibility of further unrecorded archaeology.

Speaking to local media, Mr Johnson described the find as “the most important archaeological find ever made in relation to the Priory.”

He has urged authorities to consider stronger protection for the site, including possible scheduling, and has called for a full geophysical survey before further groundwork, including service trenches, is carried out.

Mr Johnson has disputed suggestions that the burials may have been those of “undesirables” or executed criminals.

He said the east-west orientation, together with evidence of coffin and cist

burials, pointed instead to respectful Christian interment.

He believes the remains are more likely to be those of monks, townspeople, or a mixture of both, and may show that the medieval priory complex extended further than previously understood.

The presence of children’s remains also suggests the site may have served as a wider community burial ground.

Development and heritage

The discovery highlights the continuing challenge of balancing modern housing needs with the protection of West Wales’ archaeological heritage.

Urban development on historic sites often reveals buried history, as seen in the major medieval cemetery uncovered beneath Haverfordwest’s former Ocky White department store site.

Archaeologists have described the Cardigan remains as being of moderate regional importance.

Specialist analysis is expected to provide valuable information about medieval life in Ceredigion, including diet, health, disease, life expectancy and possible evidence of hardship or local events.

A spokesperson for Archaeology Wales said that while the finds were more extensive than first expected, proper protocols had been followed.

Developers have also committed to a watching brief for any further discoveries during the build.

LOCAL INTEREST

The discovery has generated considerable interest in Cardigan, where many residents still have strong family links to the former hospital.

Some have welcomed the development as the regeneration of a neglected site, while others fear that important history could be lost beneath new housing.

Mr Johnson said: “These bones are not just relics — they are our ancestors. Proper recording and study can tell us so much about how people lived, worked, and died in medieval Cardigan.”

The Herald understands that further updates are expected once scientific dating and detailed bone analysis are complete.

Radiocarbon dating and examination of any associated artefacts, such as coffin nails or textile fragments, could help refine the timeline and context of the cemetery.

The discovery is a reminder that the past often lies just beneath the surface in West Wales’ historic towns.

As development continues, careful stewardship of such finds will be essential to honouring local heritage while building for the future.

Welsh politics turned upside down

Plaid Cymru’s historic victory, Reform UK’s surge and Labour’s collapse have created a very different Senedd — and a very different Wales

WELSH politics has changed for good.

The Senedd election on Thursday (May 7) delivered the most dramatic result since devolution began in 1999. For the first time, Labour is no longer the dominant force in Cardiff Bay.

Plaid Cymru finished top, Reform UK stormed into second place, and Welsh Labour — the party that once seemed almost impossible to dislodge — fell to third.

The numbers tell the story.

Plaid Cymru won 43 seats in the new 96-member Senedd. Reform UK won 34. Labour was reduced to just nine. The Conservatives took seven, the Greens entered the Senedd with two, and the Liberal Democrats held one.

No party reached the 49 seats needed for an overall majority.

But the message from voters was unmistakable: the old order is over.

Rhun ap Iorwerth has now become Wales’ first Plaid Cymru

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

First Minister, leading a minority government. Reform UK, after years on the margins, is now the official opposition.

For voters, businesses, councils, farmers, patients, parents and public

electing six Members of the Senedd through a closed-list proportional system.

That meant voters chose a party rather than an individual candidate.

Supporters say the system makes the Senedd more representative of how Wales votes. Critics say it weakens the direct link between

“The old order is over. The question now is whether the new one can deliver.”

services, this is not just a change of faces. It is a new political era.

Subheadline: Labour’s centurylong dominance has been broken as Plaid takes power and Reform becomes the main opposition

A new system, a new result

This election was also the first under Wales’ new voting system.

The Senedd has expanded from 60 to 96 members. Wales is now divided into 16 large constituencies, each

voters and individual politicians.

Either way, it changed the political map.

Turnout rose to 51.6%, the highest ever for a Senedd election. More people voted, and they voted differently.

Plaid Cymru topped the poll with 444,665 votes, taking 35.4% of the vote. Reform UK followed with 367,985 votes and 29.3%. Labour fell

to 139,203 votes, just 11.1%.

The Conservatives, once Labour’s main opponents in large parts of Wales, also suffered, winning 134,926 votes and 10.7%.

The Greens made history with two seats, while the Liberal Democrats held on with one.

What happened to Labour?

For more than a century, Labour was the natural party of government in Wales.

That has now changed.

The party’s collapse did not happen overnight. Years of frustration over NHS waiting lists, the cost of living, housing pressures, transport rows, farming policy and public service pressures all played their part.

The short and troubled Vaughan Gething premiership damaged Labour badly. Eluned Morgan took over, but could not stop the slide. She also lost her own seat.

In many former Labour heartlands, especially in post-industrial areas,

voters who once stayed loyal either stayed away or moved elsewhere.

Some went to Plaid. Many went to Reform.

The result was not just a defeat. It was a political earthquake.

Plaid’s moment

Plaid Cymru has spent decades trying to convince voters it could govern Wales.

Now it has the chance.

Rhun ap Iorwerth enters office with momentum, but also with a difficult task. His party is the largest in the Senedd, but it does not have a majority.

That means Plaid will need support from other parties to pass budgets and major laws.

The new government says its focus will be on delivery rather than slogans. Health, childcare, the economy, housing, education and further powers for Wales are expected to dominate the early months.

Plaid will also face pressure from supporters who want faster progress on Welsh independence. But Mr ap Iorwerth has signalled that day-today government will come first.

The test now is simple: can Plaid turn a historic victory into visible improvements for ordinary people?

Reform’s breakthrough

If Plaid’s victory was historic, Reform UK’s rise was extraordinary.

At the last Senedd election, Reform was barely a presence. This time, it won 34 seats and became the official opposition.

The party gained support from disillusioned Conservative voters, former Labour voters and people angry at the political establishment in Cardiff Bay and Westminster.

Its campaign focused on familiar themes: scrapping the default 20mph speed limit, cutting waste, backing infrastructure, defending free

prescriptions, prioritising local people for housing, and challenging net zero costs.

For many voters, Reform became the protest vehicle of choice.

Now the party faces a different challenge. Protest is one thing. Opposition is another.

Dan Thomas and his team will be expected to scrutinise the Plaid government on health, spending, transport, farming, housing and the economy.

If Reform performs strongly, it could become a lasting force in Welsh politics. If it struggles, some of its new support may prove temporary.

What it means for Wales

The new Senedd will be more unpredictable than anything Wales has seen before.

The old Labour-Conservative contest has been replaced by something sharper: Plaid Cymru in government, Reform UK as the main opposition, Labour badly weakened, and smaller parties holding potentially important votes.

That could mean better scrutiny and more negotiation.

It could also mean gridlock.

Every major decision will matter: budgets, NHS plans, farming policy, housing schemes, transport projects, school reforms and relations with Westminster.

For West Wales, the questions are immediate. What will the new government do about rural services, Withybush Hospital, farming, tourism, housing, transport links and the Welsh language? And how loudly will local MSs fight for Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire inside a much larger political machine?

The election changed Cardiff Bay.

The next few years will show whether it changes people’s lives.

What happened in Ceredigion Penfro

CEREdIgION Penfro became one of the key battlegrounds of the new Senedd map — and one of the clearest examples of how Welsh politics has changed.

The new constituency stretches across much of Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire, from north of Aberystwyth down towards Angle in the south west and Llanteg in the south east.

It elects six Members of the Senedd under the new closed-list proportional voting system.

Turnout was around 56%, higher than the Wales-wide figure of 51.6%.

THE RESULT

Plaid Cymru: 31,943 votes 3 seats

Reform UK: 23,003 votes 2 seats

Conservatives: 14,789 votes 1 seat

Labour: 6,495 votes no seats

Greens: 6,324 votes no seats

Liberal Democrats: 4,613 votes no seats

THE SIx MSS ELECTEd WERE:

Elin Jones, Plaid Cymru

Susan Claire Archibald, Reform UK

Kerry Ferguson, Plaid Cymru Paul Windsor Davies, Welsh Conservatives Paul Marr, Reform UK

Anna Nicholl, Plaid Cymru

What it means locally

For Pembrokeshire voters, the result means a strong Plaid Cymru presence, a major Reform UK opposition voice, and no Labour representation from the constituency.

Plaid’s three seats give the party a powerful base in west Wales as it forms the new minority government in Cardiff Bay.

Reform’s two seats show the scale of the protest vote and give the party a direct platform to challenge Plaid on health, housing, transport, farming, public spending and local services.

The Conservatives held on to one seat, but Labour’s failure to win any representation here was one of the biggest shocks of the election. Former First Minister Eluned Morgan stood in Ceredigion Penfro but lost her seat.

Issues to watch

For Pembrokeshire, the big tests will be familiar ones: Withybush Hospital, GP access, farming support, rural roads, public transport, affordable housing, tourism, broadband, the Welsh language and coastal communities.

The larger constituency may give west Wales more proportional representation, but it also raises questions about whether local areas will feel properly heard.

Ceredigion Penfro helped deliver the national realignment. The question now is whether its six MSs can turn that political shift into practical results for local people.

Pembroke Town Council Monkton vacancy

PEMBROKE’S Monkton ward will soon have a new town councillor after its previous representative secured a seat in the Senedd as one of six new members for the Ceredigion Penfro seat.

A notice of casual vacancy for the Monkton ward of Pembroke Town Council was publicised yesterday, May 11.

If no written request is made to the county council’s returning officer, the town council may fill the vacant seat by co-option.

The seat was made vacant following now-former town councillor Reform’s Susan Claire Archibald becoming a Senedd member for the new Ceredigion Penfro Senedd ward, one of two Reform candidates to do so.

At the Senedd count on May 8, the former councillor spoke on behalf of herself, fellow Reform winner Paul Marr, and the party’s supporters, saying the supporters would need “new shoes,” given Ceredigion Penfro’s “ginormous constituency”.

She added: “Paul and I are obviously very excited to get to work to representing our constituency of Ceredigion and Penfro.”The

six Senedd members for the new Ceredigion Penfro ward, which saw

three Plaid seats, two Reform and one Welsh Conservatives gained, are: Elin Jones, Kerry Ferguson, and Anna Nicholl Plaid Cymru; Susan Claire Archibald and Paul Marr Reform; Welsh Conservatives Paul Windsor Davies.

A formal request for an election to fill the vacant Monkton seat may be made to: Returning Officer, Pembrokeshire County Council, Electoral Services, County Hall, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1TP.

The town council itself saw,

last weekend, the inauguration of Councillor Jonathan Grimes, also joint county councillor for Pembroke Monkton and St Mary South, as the 647th Mayor of Pembroke.

Accompanied by his wife, Councillor Deborah Willcocks, a civic lunch was held at the town hall, Main Street, successfully raising £350 in support of his chosen charity, Sandy Bear.

The weekend also saw a service at St Mary’s Church, where the Bishop of St Davids offered a blessing for the newly installed bells.

Threats to kill sent to Crown Court

A 35-yEAR-OLd man has been remanded in custody after appearing before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court charged with making threats to kill and assault.

David Killminster, of Monmouth Close, New Inn, Pontypool, appeared before magistrates on Monday (May 11).

The court heard allegations that on Friday (May 9), Killminster assaulted

another person by beating them and also made threats to kill.

Killminster entered a not guilty plea to the assault charge. No plea was entered to the threats to kill allegation at this stage.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction and sent the case to Swansea Crown Court for trial.

Killminster was remanded in custody ahead of his next court appearance.

Drunk motorist arrested at Pembrokeshire petrol station

A Johnston motorist has appeared before magistrates after being caught driving when he was almost twice the legal drink-drive limit.

Police received a call at around 11am on April 23 from a member of the public concerned that local resident Martin Phelps, 55, was driving after consuming alcohol.

“He was at the petrol station and the member of the public was concerned that he was drunk,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“When they arrived, they could see he was unsteady on his feet and had trouble getting into his parked vehicle.”

When spoken to by the officers, Phelps admitted drinking alcohol earlier that morning. Subsequent breathalyser

tests carried out at the police station, showed that Phelps had 68 mcg of alcohol in his system, the legal limit being 35.

Phelps, of Langford Road, Johnston, pleaded guilty to drink-driving and was represented in court by solicitor Jess Hill.

“He’s had a troublesome relationship with alcohol which has increased over the years,” she told the court.

“He’s engaged with the Dyfed Drugs and Alcohol Advisory Service and Alcoholics Anonymous over the years, and this incident has been a wake up call for him.”

Phelps was disqualified from driving for 17 months and fined £120. He must also pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge. He was disqualified form driving for 17 months.

Teen denies attempted murder of Milford Haven teacher

A 15-yEAR-old boy has denied attempting to murder a teacher during a stabbing incident at Milford Haven School.

The teenager, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (May 8).

He pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and unlawful wounding with a knife.

The charges relate to an incident at Milford Haven School on Thursday, February 5, when emergency services were called after reports that

a teacher had been assaulted by a pupil carrying a weapon.

The school was placed into lockdown and pupils were later safely evacuated.

The injured teacher was taken to hospital with stab wounds, but was discharged later the same day.

Police said at the time that specialist officers were supporting the victim and the wider school community.

The teenager was remanded in custody following Friday’s hearing.

A trial is due to begin on July 6.

Man denies exposure in Pembrokeshire town

A North Pembrokeshire man has appeared before magistrates charged with exposing himself in a sexual manner in a north Pembrokeshire town.

Rhydian Morse, 40, is accused of outraging public decency by exposing himself at an undisclosed location in Narberth on November 19, 2024. He faces a second charge of sexually

assaulting a female, aged 16 or over, on November 12, 2024.

This week Morse, of Precelly View, Grondre, Clynderwen, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates court where he denied both charges. He elected a Crown Court trial and his trial proceedings will now commence at Swansea Crown on June 12. He was released on unconditional bail.

Teenager banned after being caught six times over drug-drive limit

A dOCK teenager has lost his licence after driving his vehicle on the Cleddau Bridge when he was six times over the legal drug-drive limit.

Gethin Moseley, 19, was stopped by officers carrying out random traffic checks on the bridge on January 24. Smelling cannabis emanating from his Mazda, a roadside drugs swipe was carried out which proved positive Subsequent blood tests showed that Moseley had 14 mcg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system,

the legal limit being 2.

Moseley, of Milton Terrace, Pembroke Dock, pleaded guilty to drug-driving when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week. He was represented in court by solicitor Jess Hill who informed the Bench that the defendant only uses cannabis recreationally or socially. He has no previous convictions.

Moseley was fined £249 and ordered to pay a £100 court surcharge and £85 costs. He was disqualified from driving for 12 months.

Disturbance sees two women arrested

TWO WOMEN were arrested following a disturbance at the Mount Estate in Milford Haven on Saturday night (May 9).

The Herald understands the arrests followed an altercation involving four people.

Video circulating on social media shows two women lying face down on the ground outside while handcuffed and restrained by police officers. In the footage, officers can be heard telling one woman that she

is being arrested on suspicion of assaulting police.

Both women were then taken away, each flanked by officers.

Other women can be seen speaking to those detained while they remain on the ground.

The Herald has contacted DyfedPowys Police for further details, including confirmation of the number of arrests, the nature of the incident, and whether anyone was injured.

Residents on edge after ball bearing attacks in Haverfordwest

POLICE are investigating a series of suspicious incidents in Haverfordwest after metal ball bearings were reportedly used to damage a vehicle and a property.

A blue Range Rover Evoque had its wing mirror damaged on Glenfields Road on Sunday (May 10), while a window at a nearby property was damaged on Tuesday (May 12).

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers have also received reports of ball bearings being found in the Glenfields Road and Old Hakin Road areas.

A police spokesperson said: “Officers are investigating reports of criminal damage on Glenfields Road, Haverfordwest, following several suspicious incidents reported in the area.”

Local officers are continuing enquiries and are speaking with residents.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious, or who has CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage from the area, is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Man sentenced for stalking women and threatening to torch home

A court has heard how three women were repeatedly spied upon by a Pembrokeshire stalker who threatened to burn their properties and ‘beat the s*** out of them’. Haverfordwest magistrates were told that between October 18 and November 10, 2025, Thomas Austin, 31, stalked his three victims by:

• Attempting to access their security cameras;

• Repeatedly contacting them on social media and

• Spying on them in their homes.

He also took images of them at various locations in Pembroke Dock.

This week Austin, of Shore House, Long Mains, Monkton, pleaded guilty to two charges of stalking without fear, alarm or distress and one charge of harassment without violence.

“Threats were made towards each of the three parties,” outlined Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan.

“The defendant threatened to come down to their properties and on one occasion he stated he was going to burn the house down. On another occasion he said he was going to come down and punch anyone who was there.”

Ms Vaughan read out a direct quote made by the defendant to one

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

of his victims.

“I’m going to come over and beat the s*** out of you,” he told the female.

The Crown concluded by saying that Austin was heavily under the influence of alcohol and cocaine when each of the offences were committed.

Austin, who is employed as a fishing boat skipper, was legally unrepresented in court. In his mitigation, he said the offences were committed in frustration, when he was

denied contact with his children.

“I was trying to call them, but [the victim] blocked my number,” he said.

“As a result I was unable to contact my children.”

After considering his mitigation, magistrates sentenced Austin to 12 weeks in custody suspended for two years . During this time he must complete 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 21 group sessions of building relationship counselling sessions. He must also pay a total of £400 compensation to the three victims, a £154 court

surcharge and £85 costs.

“After a huge amount of consideration, we find it’s crossed the custody threshold,”commented the presiding magistrate when passing sentence.

“But we’ve suspended it because we think there’s a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.”

Magistrates also imposed a twoyear restraining order preventing Austin from having any form of direct or indirect contact with the mother of his children.

Man denies burglary at Haverfordwest property

A 32-year-old man has appeared before magistrates charged with burglary at a Haverfordwest property with intent to commit damage.

Darryan Bolstridge-Edwards, 32, is accused of gaining entry into a property at Fleming Crescent on February 14 as a trespasser, with intent to cause damage to the building or its contents.

This week Bolstridge-Edwards, of Brickhurst Close, Johnston, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates via a video link from HM Parc Prison where he has been remanded in custody. He denied the offence and elected a Crown Court trial. Proceedings will now commence at Swansea on June 12.

A477 Westfield Pill Bridge to close overnight for four night

MOTORISTS are being warned of fresh disruption on the A477 near Neyland as Westfield Pill Bridge is set to close overnight for four nights from Wednesday, May 27.

The closure will run between 8:00pm and 6:00am while carriageway resurfacing and bridge repair works are carried out.

The affected section runs from Honeyborough Roundabout to Barnlake Point.

The route has already seen major

disruption from daytime bridge works, with long tailbacks reported and some drivers facing waits of up to an hour.

Cars and light goods vehicles will be diverted via Johnston and Haverfordwest, while HGVs face a much longer diversion via Canaston Bridge, Templeton, Kilgetty, Pembroke Dock and the Cleddau Bridge.

Pedestrian access will be maintained, and emergency access will be allowed where possible.

Port reports record

turnover, but debt, emissions and senior pay also

report shows strong growth and major investment, but underlying figures reveal a more complex picture

rise Annual

THE Port of Milford Haven has reported another year of growth, investment and strong trading performance, with rising cargo volumes, record turnover and major spending on infrastructure across the Haven Waterway.

The Port’s 2025 Annual Report shows gross tonnage rose by 11%, while total cargo movements increased by 17% to 38.3 million tonnes.

Turnover also reached £45.2 million, up from £43.2 million in 2024, marking a fourth consecutive year of revenue growth.

The Port said service performance remained strong, with more than 98% service availability for customers using its pilotage services.

As one of Pembrokeshire’s most important economic institutions, the Port plays a central role in jobs, energy, tourism, marine safety and long-term investment across the Haven.

Dr Siân George, Chair of the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Our continued growth has been achieved not by chance, but through deliberate choices, and reflects our long-term perspective - one that prioritises our customers and our many stakeholders.

“As a trust port, we are committed to our mandate to ensure we hand on the Port in a better condition to future generations. We do this by placing responsible growth, environmental stewardship and prosperity for the communities who depend on the Waterway, at the forefront of our decisionmaking process.”

Tom Sawyer, CEO at the Port, added: “I would describe 2025 as another year of solid performance; one where our service delivery and business resilience continued to improve.

“We saw our fourth consecutive year of revenue growth and another year of strong profits. We thank our customers and Waterway communities and partners for their ongoing support, collaboration and challenge helping us to continually improve.

“And our thanks to our teams who have worked with an unerring focus on ensuring the Port of Milford Haven continues to deliver what our customers and communities deserve.”

MAJOR INvESTMENT

The Port continued a major investment programme during the year, spending £18 million in 2025 following £27.4 million in 2024.

Projects included a new pilot boat, upgrades to the Vessel Traffic Services command centre, refurbishment of marine facilities and further development at Milford Docks and Milford Waterfront.

The new 22-metre pilot boat, Llanion, completed sea trials and is expected to strengthen safety and resilience for vessel movements on the Waterway.

The Port also continued to position Pembroke Port for future floating offshore

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wind opportunities linked to the Celtic Freeport.

Supporters of that strategy argue that Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock could become central to the next generation of energy jobs, particularly if floating offshore wind develops at the scale hoped for by government and industry.

The Port also expanded its workforce, with 25 new employees joining in 2025 and four apprentices taken on, which it described as a record intake.

Its marine team has grown by 35% over five years.

COMMUNITy ROLE

The annual report highlights the Port’s role as a trust port, meaning it does not have shareholders and reinvests profits back into the business.

It says close to £500,000 was invested in community initiatives during the year.

These included water safety programmes, youth projects, support for Milford Youth Matters, the Torch Theatre, STEM opportunities for young women and local environmental work around the Haven Waterway.

Milford Waterfront also received recognition through a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, while the Port said its hotels and tourism assets continued to support local jobs and visitor numbers.

The organisation was also recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Women, an achievement in a sector that has historically been male dominated.

PROFIT PICTURE

But the report also shows that, beneath the positive headline figures, the Port faces financial and environmental pressures.

Although turnover increased, operating profit fell from £6.8 million in 2024 to £5.2 million in 2025.

Profit before interest and tax rose to

£6.9 million, but that figure was helped by a £1.7 million gain from the revaluation of investment properties.

The Port’s underlying profit measure, which strips out some accounting costs such as depreciation and amortisation, also fell from £11 million to £9.2 million.

That suggests the organisation is still profitable, but facing higher costs and tighter margins despite increased shipping activity.

BORROWINg RISES

Borrowing also rose sharply during the year.

The report shows total borrowings increased from £17.5 million to £25.2 million, while net debt rose from £15.3 million to £20.7 million.

Much of that increase appears to be linked to long-term capital investment, including marine infrastructure, dock improvements and hospitality assets.

Ports are expensive businesses to run and maintain, and major investment often requires borrowing.

However, because the Port is a trust port with responsibilities to the wider community, the level of borrowing is a legitimate matter for public scrutiny.

The Port says committed financing is in place until 2028 and points to strong operating cash flow and diversified income as evidence of resilience.

EMISSIONS INCREASE

The report also sets out the Port’s sustainability ambitions, including a target to cut total greenhouse gas emissions by 63% by 2035 and reach net zero by or before 2050.

t generated close to five gigawatt hours of renewable energy in 2025, avoiding almost 900 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.

But the report also shows direct emissions increased.

Scope 1 emissions rose from 1,340.39 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2024 to 1,578.15 tonnes in 2025, largely due to diesel use.

Carbon intensity also rose from 31.03 to 34.94 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per £1 million of turnover.

The figures underline the challenge facing the Port as it tries to balance growth in marine activity with its environmental ambitions.

ExECUTIvE PAy

Another figure likely to attract attention is senior remuneration.

The annual report shows the highestpaid director received £494,000 in 2025, compared with £271,000 in 2024.

The Port says the figure included a one-off compensatory award following benchmarking of senior executive pay.

There is no suggestion of wrongdoing, and the Port is entitled to argue that a nationally significant energy port requires experienced leadership.

But at a time when many local households and businesses are facing rising costs, executive pay at a trust port is a legitimate public-interest question.

BALANCEd PICTURE

Overall, the Port of Milford Haven remains one of Pembrokeshire’s most important economic success stories. The report shows a business that is growing, investing and planning for the future while maintaining a crucial role in UK energy infrastructure.

It also shows an organisation contributing to local skills, tourism, community projects and long-term regeneration.

But the annual report is not simply a success story.

It also shows falling operating profit, rising borrowing, increased direct emissions and a sharp rise in the remuneration of the highest-paid director. Those issues do not cancel out the Port’s achievements.

But they do matter.

For a trust port serving Pembrokeshire and the wider national interest, scrutiny is not hostility. It is accountability.

Crack dealer jailed after police raid in Carmarthenshire

A CRACK cocaine dealer from Carmarthenshire has been jailed for three years after police raided a property in Llanelli.

Jake Ware, 26, of Pwll, Llanelli, was arrested after Dyfed-Powys Police uncovered around £4,000 worth of crack cocaine, more than £2,000 in cash, weighing scales and digital devices during a search warrant at an address in the town.

The raid took place on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, following information that Ware was supplying Class A and B drugs from the property.

Ware was not present when officers searched the address, but police later named him as a wanted suspect. A public appeal was launched on Thursday, March 26, 2026, and he was arrested later that afternoon after information was received from the public.

Detectives also found evidence of drug dealing through a Facebook account under the fake name “JJ Mac”, which police said was being used by Ware to arrange drug supply across the area.

Ware appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Monday, April 27, where he

admitted possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, and possessing criminal property.

He was sentenced on Friday, May 1, to three years in prison.

Detective Sergeant Richard Saunders said: “Jake Ware thought he could get away with supplying harmful drugs in the Llanelli area, but now he is in jail.

“I want to thank the public who responded to our appeal to locate Ware. With your help, we were able to arrest Ware and take another drug dealer off our streets.

“If you ever suspect drug dealing might be taking place in your area, please report it. You can report your concerns anonymously through Crimestoppers or you can simply report directly to us at Dyfed-Powys Police.

“By working together, we can make Llanelli a safer place to live.”

Anyone with information about drug dealing can contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by calling 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Fishguard RNLI volunteers respond after yacht runs aground

FISHgUARd RNLI volunteers were paged on Saturday evening (May 9) after a 26ft yacht broke free from its mooring and ran aground near Fishguard Lower Town quay.

The charity’s D-class inshore lifeboat, Edward Arthur Richardson, was launched at 7:56pm following a request from HM Coastguard.

Information received was that the yacht, with one person on board, had grounded on the seaward side of the quay.

When the lifeboat arrived, the helm assessed the situation and sea conditions. Swells were lifting the yacht before dropping it back onto rocks below the surface.

Because of the yacht’s position and the weather conditions, it was decided that the safest way to assist the sailor was from the shore. Fishguard Coastguard officers, who were already on the quay side, helped the casualty from the vessel and back up the steps on the quay wall.

The lifeboat remained on standby while coastguard crews assessed the situation. During that time, the helm kept the inshore lifeboat facing into the conditions to ensure the safety of those on board.

Once it was confirmed that the sailor, members of the public and coastguard officers were safely away from the water, the lifeboat was stood down and returned to station.

‘Not viable to tow’

Fishguard RNLI volunteer Lifeboat

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Press Officer, Cedwyn Rogers said: “Fishguard’s volunteer crew responded to a request from HM Coastguard to attend a yacht with one person on board that was being pushed onto rocks by the weather.

“Once on scene, the helm made an assessment and it was determined that, given the proximity to the quay

and accessibility of the casualty vessel from shore, the most appropriate way in which to preserve life was for the casualty to be assisted from the yacht by coastguards.

“With the vessel already aground and the nature of the surf due to the northerly winds, it was not viable to attempt a tow without presenting further unnecessary risks to the lifeboat crew and casualty.

“Once a vessel has grounded, the structural integrity and stability

of a vessel is unknown, and to tow it off could compromise that further. In these situations, other means of assisting a casualty will be utilised.

“With the casualty sailor safe with HM Coastguard and no further persons near the water’s edge, the lifeboat returned to station.”

The RNLI added that anyone who is in trouble at sea, or who believes someone else may be in difficulty, should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Police appeal for more of Bishops victims to come forward

POLICE are appealing for further victim-survivors to come forward after a former Bishop of Swansea and Brecon was jailed for multiple child sex offences.

Anthony Pierce, 85, of Swansea Vale, pleaded guilty at Swansea Crown Court to five counts of indecent assault on a child under the age of 16. He was sentenced to four years and one month in prison.

Pierce will be placed on the sex offenders register for life and will be made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order on his release.

South Wales Police said that, since his sentencing, three further reports of offences dating back to the 1970s and 1980s have been received and are now under investigation.

Detective Inspector Tom Richardson, of Swansea CID, said officers believed there may be other people who were subjected to Pierce’s offending.

He said: “We know how difficult it must be for anyone to have suffered abuse in the past to come forward now.

“It was the bravery of the victim who reported Pierce’s actions which was instrumental in bringing him to justice.

“Since the conviction and sentencing of Pierce we have received reports from three people who have

will be fully investigated and dealt with sensitively and with compassion.

taken that first step in coming forward.

“We believe that there may be others who have been subject to Pierce’s crimes and we want to provide reassurance that any reports

“We recognise that coming forward can be daunting but would encourage victim-survivors to speak with us so they can get the support and help they deserve.”

Anyone with information, or

anyone who believes they may have been a victim, is asked to contact South Wales Police on 101 quoting occurrence number 2600140999. Support and information about reporting sexual offences is available through South Wales Police.

Jealous man smashed ex-partner’s phone family photos

A MILFORd HAvEN man who smashed his girlfriend’s phone and damaged framed family photographs after wrongly accusing her of being unfaithful has been sentenced by Swansea Crown Court.

Adam Davies, 34, of Meyler Crescent, Milford Haven, was found guilty by a jury of two counts of criminal damage following a trial.

He had denied the offences and was cleared of intentional strangulation and assault by beating.

The court heard that Davies’ relationship with the complainant had begun to break down in June 2024, when he believed she was having an affair. The allegation was denied by the woman.

Recorder Simon Hughes, sentencing, said Davies confronted her at around 6:00pm on June 12 last year. During the argument, he threw her work mobile phone across

the room, causing it to smash and creating significant inconvenience for her.

The following morning, at around 8:00am, Davies ripped down a curtain pole, damaging the wall behind it. He also picked up picture frames and threw them against a wall, causing them to break.

The court was told the couple later resumed their relationship, but it ended in September.

Matthew Murphy, mitigating, said Davies had no previous convictions.

Recorder Hughes told Davies he had been “arrogant and condescending” during the trial and said he continued to minimise the seriousness of his behaviour.

He added that the victim had been left considerably distressed by his conduct.

Davies was sentenced to a 12-month community order. He must complete 80 hours of unpaid work

and a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

A five-year restraining order was also imposed, banning him from

contacting his former partner. Davies must also pay a statutory victim surcharge.

Terror sentencing row raises alarm for Welsh protest movements

A LANdMARK court case in London could have major consequences for protesters across Wales after campaigners claimed four activists convicted of criminal damage may be sentenced as terrorists.

The case centres on the so-called Filton24, a group linked to Palestine Action, following damage caused at Elbit Systems’ site at Filton, near Bristol — just across the Severn from South Wales.

Although the case was heard at Woolwich Crown Court, its implications stretch far beyond England. Lawyers, campaigners and civil liberties groups say the sentencing could affect anyone in Wales involved in direct action protests, including demonstrations over Palestine, climate change, arms manufacturing, animal rights, or major infrastructure projects.

Four activists were convicted of criminal damage earlier this month after a retrial linked to damage at the Israeliowned defence company’s Bristol-area facility. Two others were acquitted. The prosecution case concerned an incident in August 2024 in which equipment was damaged during a protest at the site.

Campaign group Defend Our Juries now says reporting restrictions have been lifted, allowing it to report that the court is considering whether the offences had a “terrorist connection” for sentencing purposes.

That does not mean the defendants were convicted of terrorism offences. Instead, the issue concerns sentencing law, under which an ordinary offence

more serious sentencing consequences for direct action that causes property damage.

over comments made during a previous trial concerning the role of juries and their ability to acquit according to conscience.

Campaigners argue that restrictions placed on the defence prevented jurors from hearing key arguments about motivation, conscience, and the defendants’ beliefs about the use of weapons manufactured by Elbit Systems.

The court, however, will ultimately decide what material is legally admissible and what sentencing framework applies. Broader implications

can be treated more seriously if the court finds a terrorist connection.

Campaigners say this would be the first time direct action protesters convicted of criminal damage are sentenced in this way.

The case is likely to be watched closely in Wales, where pro-Palestine protests have taken place regularly in Cardiff, Swansea, Aberystwyth, Bangor and other towns since the outbreak of the war in Gaza.

It also has relevance to Welsh campaigners involved in environmental and anti-arms trade activism, particularly because the Filton site sits close to the Wales-England border and within the wider Severn region.

Civil liberties campaigners fear the case could create a chilling effect, with protesters in Wales potentially facing far

The issue is especially sensitive because the defendants were not convicted by a jury of terrorism offences.

Defend Our Juries claims the jury was not told that a terrorist connection could later be argued at sentencing.

The group said: “The public will be astonished to learn that in the British justice system a protester can now be convicted of criminal damage for disrupting an arms factory, and then be sentenced as ‘terrorists’ without having been convicted of terror charges.”

Legal row

The case has also drawn attention because of a separate legal dispute involving defence barrister Rajiv Menon KC.

The Court of Appeal has reportedly ruled in Mr Menon’s favour after contempt proceedings were brought

For Wales, the central question is whether a sentencing approach developed for terrorism-related offending could now be used in cases involving political protest and criminal damage.

If so, campaigners say activists could face longer prison sentences, stricter licence conditions, and the stigma of being treated as terrorist-linked offenders despite not being convicted of terrorism.

Supporters of tougher action argue that serious damage to defence sites, especially where violence or injury is involved, cannot be treated as ordinary protest.

The sentencing hearing is expected to take place on June 12.

Whatever the outcome, the case is likely to become a major test of how British courts draw the line between protest, criminal damage, and terrorismrelated sentencing — with consequences that could be felt by campaigners across Wales.

Former Haverfordwest pupil brought hammer onto hospital ward before killings

A FORMER Haverfordwest pupil who later killed three people in Nottingham brought a hammer onto a hospital ward two years before the attacks, an inquiry has heard.

Valdo Calocane is understood to have lived in Haverfordwest and attended Sir Thomas Picton School before going on to study at the University of Nottingham.

The public inquiry into the Nottingham attacks was told on Monday (May 11) that Calocane returned from leave to the Priory Hospital in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, with a hammer in his rucksack.

The West Wales link has previously emerged through a former housemate, who knew Calocane while he was in Pembrokeshire. She later contacted Nottinghamshire Police after the killings and said she believed he had a history of mental illness dating back to 2013.

She also said she believed he had worked as a cleaner at Pembrokeshire College.

Consultant psychiatrist Dr Ajith Gurusinghe told the inquiry that Calocane claimed he had the hammer because he was moving into a new property and needed to hang items.

Counsel to the inquiry, Craig Carr, suggested the explanation was “completely implausible” because Calocane did not have a new home to

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move into.

Dr Gurusinghe said staff were sceptical and believed Calocane may still have been paranoid. He accepted the incident should have been recorded and included in Calocane’s risk assessment.

He said: “It’s been missed. I admit it’s been missed.”

Charge nurse Helen Foster also gave evidence, agreeing that the hammer was “clearly a potential weapon” and that the incident was serious. However, she said she could not remember how staff followed it up.

Calocane, who had earlier links to Haverfordwest before moving to Nottingham, went on to kill students Barnaby Webber and Grace O’MalleyKumar, both 19, and school caretaker Ian Coates, 65, on June 13, 2023.

He then used Mr Coates’ stolen van to try to kill three pedestrians in Nottingham city centre.

The inquiry is examining the decisions made by mental health services before the attacks.

A Care Quality Commission inspection of the Priory Hospital in December 2021 later rated it “inadequate” overall and raised concerns about patient safety.

National Park chief to be honoured by Gorsedd Cymru

PEMBROKESHIRE Coast

National Park Authority Chief Executive Tegryn Jones is to be honoured by gorsedd Cymru at this year’s National Eisteddfod.

Mr Jones has been named among those who will be admitted to the Gorsedd in recognition of their achievements and contribution to Wales, the Welsh language and local communities.

He will be admitted in the Blue robes, which are awarded to people who have given distinguished service in areas including public life, local and national activity, journalism, media, sport, science and law.

Originally from Lampeter and a fluent Welsh speaker, Mr Jones has played a prominent role in Welsh public life through a career spanning environmental, educational and community leadership.

Before joining Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, he served as Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy and also worked for the General Teaching Council for Wales. He was nominated for his work in education, youth work and the environment, as well as for developing environmental initiatives at both local and national level.

In Pembrokeshire, he is also closely associated with the development of Welsh-medium education through his long-standing involvement with Ysgol Caer Elen in Haverfordwest, where he was the first Chair of Governors.

Mr Jones said: “It is a great

future, whether through education, culture, the environment or public service.

honour to be recognised by Gorsedd Cymru, particularly in a year when the National Eisteddfod returns to Pembrokeshire for Eisteddfod y Garreg Las.

“The Welsh language belongs to all our communities, and I have been very fortunate to work with so many people who care deeply about its

Mayor and deputy mayor

MILFORd HAvEN TOWN COUNCIL

has congratulated Cllr Mark Woodward after he was inaugurated as the town’s new Mayor and First Citizen.

Cllr Woodward was formally appointed on Monday evening, with Cllr Kathy Gray confirmed as Deputy Mayor.

Following the ceremony, Cllr Woodward said it was a “true honour and privilege” to take on the role, adding that it was something he had “never in my wildest dreams imagined would happen to me.”

He thanked his fellow councillors for their trust, as well as residents who had sent messages of congratulations.

Cllr Woodward also paid tribute to his wife Eva, who now becomes Mayoress, saying her support had helped make the moment possible.

He said: “I promise I will do my absolute best and fight hard and passionately for my beloved adopted town.”

With Cllr Gray serving as Deputy Mayor, Cllr Woodward added that residents could “rest assured it will not be a quiet year.”

“The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of the jewels of Wales and provides an outstanding landscape that contributes to the environmental, social and economic goals that are essential to Wales’ future.

“I am very fortunate to lead the National Park Authority and

extremely proud that this work has been recognised by the Gorsedd.”

This year’s National Eisteddfod, Eisteddfod y Garreg Las, will be held in Llantwd, North Pembrokeshire, from August 1-8, 2026.

The event will be especially significant as it marks 850 years since the first recorded Eisteddfod was held in Cardigan in 1176, just across the river from this year’s Maes.

appointed in Milford Haven

Rhun ap Iorwerth becomes Wales’ new First Minister

PLAId CyMRU leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has become Wales’ new First Minister following a historic vote in the Senedd today, marking one of the biggest political changes since devolution.

Ap Iorwerth secured 44 votes in the chamber, defeating Reform UK Wales leader Dan Thomas, who received 34. There were nine abstentions.

The result confirms Plaid Cymru’s move into government after the party emerged from the Senedd election as the largest group in the expanded 96-member parliament.

It is the first time Plaid Cymru has held the top job in Welsh politics, ending Labour’s long dominance of the Welsh Government since the start of devolution in 1999.

The vote followed days of intense political manoeuvring after an election which transformed the balance of power in Cardiff Bay.

Plaid Cymru won the largest number of seats but fell short of an overall majority, meaning ap Iorwerth will now lead a minority administration.

Reform UK’s Dan Thomas also put himself forward for the role of First Minister after his party’s major breakthrough at the election.

However, ap Iorwerth won the Senedd vote with support from outside his own party, while Labour members abstained.

The result leaves Reform UK as the main opposition party in the Senedd, with Labour reduced to a much smaller role after more than two decades in control of Welsh Government.

Ap Iorwerth, a former BBC journalist and broadcaster, has represented Ynys Môn in the Senedd since 2013 and became Plaid Cymru leader in 2023.

He now faces the task of forming a government and setting out his cabinet,

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with pressure expected immediately on health, the economy, farming, housing, transport and public services.

The change comes after the first Senedd election held under the new voting system, with 96 Members elected across larger multi-member constituencies.

For Wales, the vote marks a political turning point.

For Plaid Cymru, it is the moment the party has sought for a century: the chance to lead the Welsh Government.

Welsh Labour interim leader has congratulated Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth on his appointment as First Minister.

Speaking following the vote in this afternoon’s first meeting of the Seventh Senedd, in which Welsh Labour abstained, Mr Skates said: “I look forward to being an effective opposition, scrutinising and holding

Rhun and his colleagues to account where necessary to improve legislation. I hope as a Minister I demonstrated to Plaid members how collaboration and challenge are mutually beneficial and we will be focused laser-like on serving the people of Wales. No games, no nonsense, just a determination to make the lives of those we serve better “Be assured that we will not let the party of government off the hook at any time – as they, quite rightly, did not with us.”

Researchers appeal for hidden Brexit ‘boxcounts’ to map how communities voted

TEN yEARS after the UK voted to leave the European Union, researchers at Aberystwyth University are launching an ambitious project to build the most detailed map yet of how communities voted in the referendum.

The team is appealing to campaigners, party activists and referendum observers to search old files, emails and campaign folders for informal tallies known as “boxcounts”.

These were unofficial figures recorded when ballot boxes were opened on referendum night, before the formal count began.

Official results from the 2016 referendum were published only at local authority level, giving a broad picture of Leave and Remain support across the UK.

But researchers say those figures do not show the more detailed patterns within towns, villages, suburbs and neighbourhoods.

The project, led by Professor Michael

Woods at Aberystwyth University’s Centre for Welsh Politics and Society, aims to uncover those hidden local voting patterns.

Professor Woods said: “The EU referendum was the defining event in recent British politics and has shaped our political landscape for the last decade.

“We often talk about ‘Leave areas’ and ‘Remain areas’, but we don’t really know how communities voted beneath the level of local authorities.

“By bringing together boxcounts from across the UK, we can build a much more detailed picture of where support for Brexit was strongest, where it was weakest, and how these patterns relate to different types of places.

“As boxcounts from the referendum are unofficial no one has collected them together, but they will still be saved on people’s computers or archived in old campaign folders. We’re urging anyone who recorded or collated them to dig them out and send them to us.”

The team says it has developed a

process to check the material and correct for potential bias, as well as safeguards to ensure privacy requirements are met. Anyone with boxcounts from the 2016 referendum can find details on how to submit them via the Rural Spatial Justice Substack.

The study is part of the wider Rural Discontent, Spatial Justice and Disruptive Politics project, funded by the UK Frontier Research Guarantee, which is examining links between rural discontent and disruptive politics around the world.

Number of complaints made against councillors last year revealed

COdE OF CONdUCT complaints to the Ombudsman against Pembrokeshire councillors have declined from previous years to date, from a peak of 42 in 2022-23 down to seven so far this year, members of the standards committee heard.

A complaints/concerns log was established back in 2022, the latest statistics including complaints made between January to May 2026.

A report for members at the May 12 Standards Committee meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council said: “Complaint volumes have fluctuated across the reporting periods, with the highest levels recorded in 2022-2023,” the report said, adding: “This was followed by a notable reduction in 20232024, a partial increase during 20242025 and a significant decline in the most recent period. The data for January to May 2026 indicates a continuation of this downward trend, with only a small number of complaints recorded to date.

“While this period covers fewer months than previous reporting years, the reduced volume nonetheless represents a marked contrast to earlier years.”

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There were 121 complaints received over the period May 2022 to May ‘26; 40 of them harassment, bullying or false accusations, 22 social media-related, 18 meeting behaviour, and 14 altercations with members of the public.

Of the latest complaints received since January, there were six harassment, three social media, two altercation, and one meeting behaviour, with seven complaints referred to the Ombudsman to date.

The report said, across all reporting periods, complaints relating to harassment, bullying and conduct at meetings remain the most common categories, although their frequency has reduced over time.

It added: “Complaints relating to town and community councils continue to account for most cases overall, however very few such complaints have been recorded since January 2026. Taken together, the data suggests a stabilisation of complaint numbers following earlier peaks, with the January to May 2026 position indicating a particularly low level of recorded concerns.”

Statistics from previous years showed county and town and community council level complaints mostly dealt with by informal resolution or ombudsman investigation of: May 2022- April 23, 42; May 2023-April 24, 23; May 2024-April 25, 30; and 10 in May 2025-December 25.

Seven complaints referred to the Ombudsman highlighted in the report

since the start of this year were: an alleged bullying and harassment claim at community council level, currently being investigated; a county council level claim of failure to treat others with respect; discriminatory conduct based on political affiliation, no further action taken; town council level bullying and harassment, disqualified for three years; and a town council level claim of making unsubstantiated or misleading statements, failure to uphold equality principles, conduct bringing the office into disrepute, no further action taken.

It also included three claims currently in the assessment stage: town council level bullying, intimidation, and threatening behaviour; a county level bringing the office or authority into disrepute; and a community council level claim of lack of openness and transparency, improper decision-making, failure to act with integrity and accountability, and failure to provide accurate records.

All three dated to March.

Committee members agreed to note the report.

King’s Speech puts Wales at heart of UK energy and rail plans

UK gOvERNMENT says Wales will be central to a new legislative programme focused on energy independence, rail investment, policing, defence and economic growth.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said the King’s Speech, delivered on Wednesday (May 13), set out an “ambitious plan” for the country, with measures aimed at tackling the cost of living, creating jobs and strengthening national security.

The programme includes an Energy Independence Bill, which the UK Government says will support clean power projects across Wales, including floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea and new nuclear development at Wylfa.

Ministers say the plans are intended to reduce energy bills, secure domestic energy supplies and create skilled jobs in communities across Wales.

Ms Stevens said: “The King’s Speech sets out how the UK Government is building a stronger, fairer, future for Wales by tackling the cost of living, creating good jobs and driving economic growth.

“Our Energy Independence Bill puts Wales at the heart of our clean energy mission. Alongside floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea and new nuclear in Wylfa, we are working to cut energy bills, create new jobs and secure the UK’s energy independence.”

RAIL INvESTMENT

The King’s Speech also includes a Railways Bill, which the UK Government

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says will support its £14bn plan to transform rail infrastructure in Wales.

The Wales Office says the proposals will improve journeys, connect communities and support 12,000 jobs.

Rail infrastructure has long been a major political issue in Wales, with repeated criticism over historic underinvestment, poor connectivity between north and south Wales, and the long-running dispute over whether

Wales received a fair share of funding from major UK rail projects.

Ms Stevens said: “Our Railways Bill will help deliver our £14bn plan to transform rail infrastructure in Wales, improving journeys, connecting communities and supporting 12,000 jobs.”

POLICE ANd dEFENCE

The programme also includes the Police Reform Bill, which the UK Government says will put more officers

on the streets and strengthen public safety.

Defence spending is also set to rise, with ministers saying the measures will improve national security while supporting Welsh service personnel and veterans through better services and housing.

Ms Stevens added: “We are also strengthening our national security with increased defence spending, putting more police on our streets with the Police Reform Bill, and supporting our Welsh service personnel and veterans with better services and housing.

“This is an ambitious plan that delivers for every part of Wales.”

POLITICAL TEST

The announcement comes at a significant moment for Wales, following major political change in Cardiff Bay and renewed pressure on both the UK and Welsh governments to deliver on public services, housing, transport and economic growth.

The focus on energy and rail is likely to be welcomed by industry and unions, but ministers will now face questions over delivery, timescales and whether the promised investment reaches communities across Wales.

The UK Government will argue that the King’s Speech shows Wales is central to its wider economic plan. Opposition parties are expected to scrutinise whether the legislation goes far enough, particularly on energy bills, public transport, policing and support for households still facing cost-of-living pressures.

Labour reflect on disastrous Senedd election after Ceredigion Penfro wipeout

FORMER First Minister Eluned Morgan, who failed to secure a seat in the 2026 Senedd elections in Ceredigion Penfro, has spoken of her “honour” to serve in the role. In the May 7 battle for six seats in the new Ceredigion Penfro constituency, stretching from north of Aberystwyth to Angle in the southwest

and Llanteg in the southeast, Plaid Cymru gained three seats, Reform two and Welsh Conservatives one.

The elections saw seismic political changes in Wales with Plaid

RNLI crew paged twice to assist yacht

ST dAvIdS RNLI were paged twice over the weekend to assist the yacht Calypso, which was on passage around St davids Head.

On Saturday (May 9), the yacht’s skipper was struggling to get an anchor to hold in Porth Melgan, with north-easterly winds blowing Force 6 to 7.

The skipper later headed for the RNLI casualty mooring at St Justinians to ride out the weather, but picking up the mooring proved difficult single-

handed.

A local small boat initially assisted before the D-Class inshore lifeboat launched at 5:30pm to ensure the yacht was safely secured for the night.

The crew were paged again at 8:29am on Sunday (May 10), after the skipper reported the yacht’s propeller had become fouled while leaving the moorings.

The yacht was freed before the lifeboat launched and was able to continue north as planned.

in the majority and Labour losing heavily across the country, including Ceredigion Penfro where former First Minister Eluned Morgan or any other Labour candidates failed to secure a seat.

Since her loss, Eluned has said it was “the greatest honour of my life to serve as First Minister of Wales and to represent the people of Mid and West Wales in the Senedd”.

In a statement, she added: “Public service is never about one person. It is about the people and communities who place their trust in you, the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes and the shared belief that Wales can always move forward together.

“I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey – my team, colleagues, campaigners, friends, my family and above all the people of Wales for giving me the privilege to serve.

“To the new Welsh Government, I send my very best wishes. Whatever our political differences, I believe we all want the same thing at heart: a fairer, stronger and more confident Wales.”

Fellow Labour candidate in the Ceredigion Penfro Senedd

elections, also a Pembrokeshire county councillor for Narberth, Cllr Marc Tierney described Eluned as “a champion for causes that matter to so many of us — speaking up for those who could not, often without fanfare but with quiet, steady resolve”.

He added: “Both Welsh Labour and UK Labour will now need to take stock. Now is the time to consider, in depth, the significance of the losses suffered, and take genuine and measurable steps to regain the confidence of the public who have placed their trust in us so many times before.

“Eluned has said that she takes responsibility for the defeat. But I believe it is wrong for her to carry that burden alone. Others must examine their role, and the entire movement must work out — in a challenging but respectful way — what must change if we are to offer a real alternative to the politics of division that has featured so prominently of late.

“Welsh Labour and its membership must be brave. Our shared values must underpin the next chapter.”

Eluned Morgan has now been replaced as interim Senedd Labour leader by Ken Skates.

Milford Haven remembers those lost at sea

MILFORd HAvEN came together on Sunday (May 10) to remember those who have lost their lives at sea.

The Port of Milford Haven joined the Fishermen’s Mission, Stella Maris – Apostleship of the Sea and members of the local community for a National Fishing Remembrance Day service at St Katherine’s and St Peter’s Church.

The service was followed by a gathering at the Fisherman’s Memorial on The Rath, where those who never returned home from the sea were remembered.

Canon Chancellor John Cecil and Reverend Paul Osunyikanmi led what was described as a moving service of remembrance.

The Port of Milford Haven said it was honoured to take part in the event, paying tribute to fishing families and the wider maritime community.

The annual day of remembrance holds particular significance in Milford Haven, a town with deep fishing and seafaring roots.

Teifi river revival project secures £1.4m lottery funding

COMMUNITIES along the River Teifi are set to play a central role in a major new project aimed at improving the health of one of west Wales’ most important rivers.

The Teifi Fyw — Living Teifi: People and Nature Together project has been given the green light after securing more than £1.4m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The conservation project aims to respond to climate change, biodiversity loss and declining river health, while also recognising the Teifi’s deep cultural and historic importance to the communities which live and work along its catchment.

The first stage will be a two-year development phase, bringing together scientific evidence, local history, lived experience and creative work to help shape future restoration plans.

The project will be coordinated by Natural Resources Wales, working with the West Wales Rivers Trust, the Mining Remediation Authority, Strata Florida Trust, Mentera, Ceredigion County Council, UNESCO-MOST BRIDGES at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, and The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales.

It will also build on existing work carried out by the Teifi Nutrient Management Board and local stakeholder projects including Llais yr Afon and P.R.A.M.

Cllr Clive Davies welcomed the announcement, saying he looked forward to seeing the project outcomes realised.

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not only based on environmental evidence, but also reflects the values and priorities of the people

DataMapWales platform helps communities prepare for floods

WELSH g O v ERNMENT mapping platform is being used to help communities, councils and emergency responders access vital local information across Wales.

DataMapWales, supported by Ordnance Survey data, brings together more than 3,000 datasets in one place, covering everything from public toilets and EV charging points to speed limits, active travel routes and Welsh language place names.

The platform, which began more than a decade ago as an environmental tool, is now also being developed to support emergency planning and response.

F LOO d RISK SUPPORT

A new application called Jigso is being built to help Wales’ resilience community prepare for major incidents, including flooding, landslides and severe weather.

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With climate change expected to bring more frequent flooding, the system is designed to help emergency services and local authorities identify affected areas more quickly.

The majority of emergency services, responder agencies and

resilience organisations across Wales have already signed up to the application.

Jigso uses property-level data to help agencies identify vulnerable households and those most in need of help during an emergency.

The system was used during flooding in Monmouthshire last year to calculate the number of vulnerable households affected, helping emergency services respond more quickly.

P LANNIN g AN d PUBLIC INFORMATION

DataMapWales also supports local authorities with planning and decision-making, including active travel schemes, carbon modelling, land-use changes and deprivation mapping.

The website hosts around 600 open datasets which can be accessed directly by the public.

Dave Roberts, Head of Geography at the Welsh Government, said: “DataMapWales is constantly evolving. Looking after a smaller country, we are able to work in a very agile way in terms of what we are delivering and how the portal is used.

“Ordnance Survey data provides the backbone of DataMapWales and is key to the success and effectiveness of the platform.”

Pam Whitham, Customer Development Manager at Ordnance Survey, said: “We have had a very close relationship with the Welsh Government for many years and are delighted that it continues to use OS data extensively, particularly in DataMapWales.

“This is a fantastic portal where public sector and service providers across the country are able to access trusted and authoritative data to support their routine and critical services.”

Former St John Ambulance Badger shapes national safeguarding approach

WHEN Kerrie Aldridge reflects on her role overseeing safeguarding at St John Ambulance Cymru, she does not just carry policies. She carries the wisdom forged by her childhood.

Growing up facing enormous personal challenges, Kerrie discovered a community that saw her, believed in her and helped her build strength.

Today, she leads safeguarding across the charity, determined that others experience the same sense of belonging and protection she once found.

In a recent interview for the St John Ambulance Cymru podcast, Just in Case: Stories from St John, she explained: “I’m responsible for safeguarding all of our volunteers, all of our staff, and all the members of the public who come into contact with our organisation.

“If anyone’s got a safeguarding concern, they submit a report to us. We review it, we may offer advice or put in a referral to the local authority.”

She added: “I also provide a lot of wellbeing support, because I see that as important too. There are lots of issues in the UK at the moment around mental health and wellbeing, and we must provide that support.”

Kerrie’s journey with St John began at just five years old when she joined as a Badger, the youngest branch of the organisation. That weekly escape was far more than a hobby.

“I lived with a mother who had a really serious mental health condition, and it was tough growing up in that environment,” she recalled.

“But my mum had been part of St John as a child, and she was keen for me to be involved. It gave me purpose, a place where I could go once a week, where I was just Kerrie the Badger, I wasn’t a young carer, I wasn’t that girl whose mum was unwell.

“I developed first aid skills and made friendships that helped me build resilience. My Divisional Officers and Cadet Officers were incredibly supportive; they were really part of my life and almost safeguarded me themselves,” Kerrie says.

Those early experiences still inform her leadership. “I’m passionate about giving our young people what my leaders gave me. I understand what it’s like to grow up with challenges at home, so I want our leaders to be there for young people in the same way.”

Since joining the organisation in this role, Kerrie has introduced 10 Safeguarding Commitments, a clear, one-page pledge making it easy for everyone in St John Ambulance

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Cymru to understand and follow safeguarding standards.

She explained: “I wanted something visible, something everyone could sign up to.

“We’ve had safeguarding policies and training for a long time, but this was about capturing it in a way that was easy to see and remember. It’s about how we want people to behave, making sure they’re up to date with training, and ensuring anyone can report a concern without fear of reprisals.”

The launch of these commitments has already led to meaningful changes.

“We’ve seen more duty to report submissions, which means people are recognising and acting on safeguarding concerns,” Kerrie noted.

“We’ve had members report incidents at large events like concerts, leading to people being safeguarded. Leaders have taken ownership, some have laminated the commitments and put them in response cars, others have had their whole division sign them.”

One of Kerrie’s ongoing goals is to shift how safeguarding is perceived. “I’ve heard many times in different jobs, ‘Oh no, Safeguarding’s calling,

something must be wrong.’ I want to change that narrative,” she says.

“Yes, people should report when something’s wrong, but they should also feel able to raise welfare concerns. I want people to feel seen, and to know we care about them.”

Looking ahead, she wants vigilance and kindness to go hand in hand. “Whether it’s a young person or an adult, if you notice a change in someone’s behaviour, ask them if they’re okay” she advised.

“We need to be confident our members and the people we treat are safe, and to act on any concerns we hear.”

She added: “There’s always hope that things can change. You can achieve amazing things with a little bit of support. Things might be tough right now, but they won’t always be.”

For those considering a role in safeguarding, empathy and active listening are essential in her view, not just hearing, but truly listening.

“There’s a difference between listening and hearing,” she observed.

“And you’ve got to have passion. The people we safeguard are the experts in their own situations; we’re there to walk alongside them and support them.”

From a five-year-old Badger seeking refuge to a National

Safeguarding Manager shaping culture across Wales, Kerrie’s story is proof of the transformative power of community, compassion and determination.

“I’m so proud of my team for trusting me and embracing the changes I’ve brought in,” she reflected.

“Thank you for taking a chance on that little Badger who had a dream to be a social worker.”

If you are part of St John Ambulance Cymru, or you have a concern about the safety and well-being of someone you know, Kerrie invites you to reach out.

Whether you want to learn more about the safeguarding commitments or need to raise a concern, contact your safeguarding leads today. Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility, and by speaking up, you could make all the difference.

Just in Case: Stories from St John is available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes set to release every month.

To listen via Apple Podcasts please visit: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/ podcast/just-in-case-stories-from-stjohn/id1830427277

To listen via Spotify please visit: https://open.spotify.com/ show/05SXgJnpuJ2oX176hzSAcq

Hotel was hit during a Luftwaffe bombing raid

THE COMMEMORATION, held on Tuesday (May 12), marked the anniversary of the wartime attack, with members of the community gathering beside a newly installed plaque.

The plaque remembers those who lost their lives when the Pier Hotel suffered a direct hit during an air raid on Pembroke Dock.

A blessing was given by Rev Alex Grace, and the names of those who died were remembered by those in attendance.

The plaque was supplied by the Pembroke Dock Bicentenary Committee and installed as a permanent reminder of the town’s wartime sacrifice.

Pembroke Dock Town Council said it had been “an honour” to be part of the service.

The event brought together civic representatives, clergy, residents and members of the local community, with flowers laid in memory of those killed.

The new plaque reads: “This plaque commemorates those who died when the Pier Hotel suffered a direct hit during a Luftwaffe bombing raid on Pembroke Dock.”

Fishguard astroturf ‘long overdue’ for new surface

A CALL for clarity on if and when “long overdue” works on Fishguard Leisure Centre’s astroturf surface will take place is to be heard by councillors.

In a submitted question to be heard at the May 14 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, Bro Gwaun county councillor Delme Harries will ask: “I have received representations regarding the condition of the astroturf surface at Fishguard Leisure Centre which is reported to be a heavily-used facility supporting a range of local sports clubs and community activity.

“Concerns have been raised that the surface is now approaching 20 years old, and that resurfacing is now considered long overdue.

“In light of the council’s recent reviews and investments at other leisure centres in the south of the county, which are much welcomed, can the Cabinet Member please clarify: What formal assessments have been carried out on the condition and remaining lifespan of the astroturf at Fishguard Leisure Centre?

“How this facility is currently prioritised within the council’s wider leisure and sports investment programme?

“What consideration has been given to future upgrade or replacement at Fishguard, particularly in comparison with leisure facility investments made elsewhere in Pembrokeshire?”

Cllr Harries’ question is expected to be answered by the appropriate

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Cabinet member.

At the March meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members backed a leisure investment programme including feasibility funding for new leisure centres in Pembroke and Milford Haven, along with works at Tenby leisure centre, with the aim of extending the lifespan of the trust-run swimming pool by at least 10 years.

For Pembroke this includes a

detailed feasibility study for a newbuild Leisure Centre in Pembroke, on the current school site, providing a feasibility budget of £195,000 from reserves.

For Milford Haven, members backed £1.2m (at risk) in the capital programme to develop a high-level leisure brief into the tender of the new English Medium primary and secondary school project in Milford Haven, and the pre-construction services to develop the project designs (to RIBA 4, Detailed Design) for a new leisure centre at the same time as the school.

For Tenby, members backed a grant of £4,606,667 to the Tenby and District Swimming Pool Association, as owner of the asset, for works to extend the lifespan of the current swimming pool by at least 10 years.

Members also backed other recommendations including £50,000 from reserves to procure external funding consultants to identify and secure as much funding as possible towards the delivery of the investment programme, and to establish a leisure operations review board to undertake a formal review of the leisure services operating model.

Postman Dai Morgan begins fourth year as Tenby mayor

TENBy postman dai Morgan has described serving the town as “the honour of my life” after being appointed mayor for a fourth consecutive year.

Cllr Morgan took office on Friday and was praised by fellow councillors for his sincerity, integrity and practical approach to the role.

In proposing him, Cllr Lawrence Blackhall said: “He appears relaxed and laid back but don’t be fooled – he is a smart and capable operator.”

Cllr Morgan, whose postal round covers the Whitland and Llanboidy areas, will again be supported by his wife Melanie as mayoress. His daughter Erin serves as town crier, while his son Miles helps as a standin mace-bearer.

Cllr Sam Skyrme-Blackhall described him as “astute, charismatic, dignified, honest, trustworthy, conscientious, empathetic, kind, caring and humble”, adding: “As I like to call him, my big friendly giant.”

Thanking councillors for placing their trust in him again, Cllr Morgan said: “It has been the honour of my life to serve Tenby.

“I remain committed to working hard, representing Tenby with pride,

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and doing all I can to support our community in the year ahead.”

He said the town council’s new office and hub at the De Valence Pavilion had become a place “at the heart of the community”.

He added: “If we can continue building a council that is approachable, active, and rooted in the community, then we are moving in the right direction.

“But challenges remain, and the only way we can continue making progress is to work together.”

Cllr Morgan also paid tribute to former town clerk Andrew Davies, who recently retired after nearly 24 years’ service, and to former councillor

Trevor Hallett, who died in March aged 86.

He announced the creation of the Trevor Hallett Award, an annual honour to recognise people who show outstanding dedication to Tenby.

Cllr Morgan said: “It’s a small gesture but one that ensures Trevor will always be remembered by the town to which he gave outstanding service.”

Haverfordwest Castle redevelopment on track for 2028 reopening

HAvERFORdWEST Castle is on course to reopen in 2028 following a major redevelopment project aimed at transforming the historic site into a high-quality visitor attraction.

County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who represents the Castle Ward in Haverfordwest, recently visited the site to see the progress being made.

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He said: “As County Councillor for the Castle Ward in Haverfordwest, it was lovely to visit the Haverfordwest Castle Redevelopment Project and see the progress that has been achieved.

“I am very much looking forward to the Castle reopening in 2028.”

The project will see the mediaeval castle conserved for future generations, while the Inner Bailey has been landscaped so it can host events for up to 500 people.

These could include concerts, plays, craft fairs, Christmas markets and other community events.

The wider castle grounds are also being improved, with new interpretation explaining the history of the site, as well as family-friendly activities.

The building which houses Haverfordwest Museum, the Governor’s House, is being conserved, while the museum exhibition inside will be completely refurbished and modernised.

The former gaol building will also be transformed into a visitor attraction telling the story of Pembrokeshire’s

past and future in an interactive and family-friendly way.

The attraction will include a café, shop, community spaces and exhibition areas.

Work is also taking place to improve the physical route between the castle and the town centre at Castle Back, with better signage planned to help visitors find the castle and navigate Haverfordwest more easily.

The castle is expected to reopen in 2028.

Why Purpose, Routine and Community Matter

MENTAL Health Awareness Week is an important moment to talk openly about wellbeing, but at FRAME we know that mental health is not only supported by words. It is supported through action, routine, connection, kindness and the opportunity to feel useful.

This year, the Mental Health Foundation is encouraging people to take action for good mental health. That message strongly reflects what we see every day at FRAME. Awareness matters, but meaningful change often happens in small, practical ways: getting out of the house, meeting people, learning a skill, being part of a team, having a reason to get up in

the morning, or simply knowing that someone will notice if you are not there.

FRAME is a Pembrokeshire charity and social enterprise with a long history of supporting people through meaningful occupation, volunteering, training and reuse. Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone has something to offer, and that people thrive when they are given patience, encouragement and the chance to contribute in a way that feels right for them.

For many people who come to FRAME, the first step can be the hardest. Some people have experienced anxiety, depression, loneliness, bereavement, trauma, long-term unemployment, disability, ill health or a loss of

confidence. Others may simply feel that they have become disconnected from the community around them. Whatever the reason, FRAME aims to be a place where people are welcomed without judgement.

One volunteer described it simply: “I didn’t come here thinking it would change my life. I just needed somewhere to go. But having a routine, seeing familiar faces and feeling useful again has made a huge difference.”

That sense of purpose is central to what FRAME does. Across our sites in Merlin’s Bridge and Pembroke Dock, people are involved in a wide range of activities, from furniture reuse and repair to retail, clothing, bric-a-brac, gardening,

online sales, workshop projects and customer service. These are not just tasks. They are opportunities to build confidence, develop skills, make friends and feel part of something bigger.

Another person told us: “Before I came to FRAME, I’d lost a lot of confidence. I didn’t think I had much to offer. Being here reminded me that I can learn, I can help, and I do matter.”

Mental health support does not always look like a counselling room or a formal appointment. Those services are vital, and anyone struggling should seek appropriate help, but community spaces also play a powerful role. A cup of tea, a shared job, a bit of encouragement, a laugh with someone on a difficult day,

or being trusted with responsibility can all help people rebuild their confidence over time.

At FRAME, we often see people grow gradually. Someone may start quietly in the background, unsure of themselves, and over time begin chatting more, taking on new tasks, helping others, or sharing ideas. Progress does not always look dramatic from the outside, but for that person it can be life-changing.

The benefits also reach beyond the individual. FRAME’s reuse work helps reduce waste, lower carbon impact and provide affordable household items to local families. Every donated item that is reused rather than thrown away helps the environment and supports

the charity’s wider social mission. This means that people volunteering or training at FRAME are not only helping themselves; they are helping other people and the planet too.

That combination is powerful. When someone can say, “I helped with that,” or “I made a difference today,” it can strengthen self-worth in a very real way.

One regular volunteer put it like this: “FRAME gives me structure, but it also gives me people. I know I’m part of a team. That means a lot.”

Mental Health Awareness Week is a chance for all of us to think about the small actions we can take to support our own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. That might mean checking

in on a neighbour, making time for a conversation, volunteering, learning something new, asking for help, or giving someone else the opportunity to be included.

At FRAME, we see first-hand that people do not need to be perfect, polished or full of confidence to make a valuable contribution. They just need a chance, and the right support around them.

We welcome people from all walks of life, whether they are looking to volunteer, gain experience, meet new people, rebuild confidence or support a local charity with a strong social and environmental purpose. We also welcome donations, customers,

partners and supporters who want to be part of that wider impact.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, we encourage people across Pembrokeshire to look beyond awareness alone and think about action. A conversation. A routine. A kind word. A donated item. A volunteering opportunity. A place to belong.

Small actions can make a lasting difference.

To find out more about FRAME, our volunteering opportunities, donations, reuse work and community projects, visit our sites in Merlin’s Bridge or Pembroke Dock, or follow Pembrokeshire FRAME online.

The VC Gallery is working hard in Pembrokeshire.

At The v C g allery, we provide a service that will improve the welfare and support for armed forces veterans and the wider community throughout Pembrokeshire, responding to their needs as quickly and efficiently as possible in an empathetic manner that engages with them, to support and assist

with their particular needs and entitlements.

Founded by Army veteran Barry John MBE in 2013, today’s organisation has grown massively since it’s humble beginnings. It is supported by Steph Cross (Project Manager), Kevin Stanley, Josh Simmons (Military Peer Mentors), and a strong team of volunteers.

From our two drop-in locations in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, we offer help and support through creative active engagement to people of all ages, with mental and physical disabilities, and to those who may be suffering from social isolation.

Free and accessible Mental health support throughout the day, free trauma informed counselling services in both North and South Pembrokeshire.

Also Projects working throughout Pembrokeshire such as -

‘D4V- Dig for Victory’ gardening, heritage and teamwork. ‘Found in the ground’ Historical, fitness, metal detecting.

‘Ground to plate’ Gardening, cooking and serving others nutritional food.

‘Breakfast club’ community, art and nutritional breakfast.

‘Art sessions’ 4 guided art sessions on creativity and wellbeing.

‘Jewellery workshop’ recycled,

creative engagement person centred approach.

‘Mobile museum’ education, heritage and wellbeing support in care homes, colleges and schools.

‘Community Transport’ Supporting individuals and families get to and from important events.

‘Woodlands wellbeing project’ Biodiversity and creative events in nature. Including adopted responsibility of the Tributary.

Poetry, guitars, walking groups, seated exercise, carers groups, food bank, tea and toast, hospital support, food delivery, games, bingo, archery and much much more...

If you would like to support a Pembrokeshire charity who helps Armed Forces veterans and their families and the wider community then please get in touch

Join ‘friends of the VC Gallery’ for £5 a month. For more information contact us - barry@thevcgallery. com

St Lawrence’s Church in Gumfreston to reopen after major restoration

A CENTURIES-old rural church in Pembrokeshire will reopen its doors this summer following a lengthy and complex restoration project.

Tucked away down a narrow track in the village of Gumfreston, the church is known for its distinctive tapering tower, vaulted porch, and atmospheric interior. Surrounded by trees, its churchyard is said to come alive each spring with carpets of lesser celandine, while nearby holy wells continue to flow yearround.

The restoration has taken several years to complete. According to the project team, the building was in a severely deteriorated condition before work began, with significant damp problems that have made drying and

stabilisation particularly challenging. During the course of the works, conservation teams also made a number of unexpected discoveries within the historic structure.

Organisers expressed gratitude to the many contractors, volunteers, supporters, and local residents who contributed to the project and showed patience throughout the lengthy closure.

St Lawrence’s Church, Gumfreston is welcoming selected visitors on Thursday, June 18, with an opening celebration planned from 2pm to 4pm. Visitors attending the reopening event will be able to view the restored church, hear about its conservation journey, and join a toast to mark the completion of the works.

Henry Tudor Centre designs to go on display in Pembroke

MEMBERS of the public are being invited to view the emerging exhibition designs for the new Henry Tudor Centre in Pembroke.

The centre, due to open in spring 2027, will be based at South Quay and will tell the story of Henry Tudor, the son of Pembroke who went on to become Henry VII and founder of the Tudor dynasty.

The exhibition designs will be on display at Pembroke Town Hall from Friday, May 22, to Friday, May 29.

The Henry Tudor Trust, which will operate the new heritage centre, is asking residents and visitors to give their views on how Henry Tudor’s story should be told.

The designs have been developed by exhibition specialists Image Makers, with feedback forms available for members of the public to submit comments. These responses will help refine the exhibition as the project develops.

The new logo for the centre, created by Haverfordwest-based marketing company Media2Motion, will also be on display.

Work is currently underway to

refurbish the Grade II-listed building at South Quay, which will house the new exhibition. The centre will also include a new public library, replacing the current library on The Commons, as well as a café.

The capital project is being funded by the Welsh Government, UK Government and Pembrokeshire County Council.

Additional support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will fund a programme of events and activities at the new centre, alongside volunteering opportunities and educational resources for schools.

The exhibition plans can be viewed at Pembroke Town Hall from Monday to Thursday, 9:00am to 3:00pm, and Friday, 9:00am to 1:00pm. The town hall is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Pembroke Power Station National Grid power plans backed

A CALL to site specialist diesel generators at Pembroke Power Station to help keep the lights on in the event of a National grid shutdown has been given the thumbs-up by county planners.

In a screening application to Pembrokeshire County Council, RWE Generation UK PLC, through Ove Arup & Partners Ltd, sought to site up to six containerised diesel generators,

diesel storage tank(s) and electrical connections at Pembroke Power Station, Pwllcrochan, near Pembroke.

The application site is within the site of the existing Pembroke Power Station, a combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) station which began commercial operation in September

2012, with a gross consented capacity of about 2,199 megawatts electric (MWe), replacing the previous oil-fired power station which operated for almost 30 years and was decommissioned in 1999.

A supporting statement says, subject to confirmation, it is considered to comprise permitted development, the scheme “a standalone plant, with its own fuel supply, capable of

starting up, operating and shutting down independently from the power station”.

It adds: “It is required only in an emergency to maintain plant status and keep the power station operationally ‘ready’ in the event of a total or partial shutdown of the National Grid system. It is not required for the normal operation of the power station and does not extend its capacity, which remains as already consented, therefore it is not considered a change or extension.”

On need, it says it is mandatory that all electricity generators of over a megawatt have to adopt a new minimum standard of asset resilience; power stations “must be capable of restoring demand on the National Grid electricity transmission system in the event of a total or partial shutdown of the National Grid system,” the Power Station not currently meeting this new asset resilience standard.

It says construction is hoped to start in July 2026, lasting approximately nine to 12 months, the main part across the summer months.

The application was considered by officers to fall under permitted development, saying it “does not require Environmental Impact Assessment because the development, including cumulatively with other development in the locality, is not likely to have significant effects on the environment”.

landlords warned to guard against Legionnaires’ disease

LANdLORdS in Pembrokeshire could face heavy fines – and jail time in worst-case scenarios – if they fail to address the risks of Legionnaires’ disease in rental properties.

Fines of up to £20,000, or a custodial sentence if a tenant dies after contracting the disease, are now enforceable under the new Renters’ Rights Act which came into effect on Friday, May 1.

It comes after latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency found 472 cases of legionellosis were identified in 2024, 13 of which proved to be fatal.

The disease is a severe form of pneumonia and is most likely to affect older adults, particularly smokers and those with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases such as cancer or diabetes.

It is spread in temperatures between 20 to 45 degrees Celsius by contaminating water systems and being inhaled through water droplets which are discharged from showerheads, hot tubs and humidifiers.

Amid increased risks of hefty fines, home assessors have developed a new e-learning platform – Legionella Guard – for landlords to ensure properties in their name adhere to updated regulations.

a frightening number of which are completely unaware of the disease and the very real risk it poses to those who are vulnerable.

vague, confusing and often ignored. And professional inspections are expensive.

“Legionnaires’ disease is a deadly risk hiding in plain sight,” said Leah.

“It’s overlooked by homeowners,

Leah Stone, Director of Legionella Guard, said managing the risk of Legionnaires’ disease should be treated equally seriously as reducing the risk of more obvious home hazards such as gas and fire safety.

“It is now a legal duty for landlords to manage the risk of infection.

“Historically, guidance has been

“This tool protects landlords from unintentional noncompliance which could have devastating consequences.”

Failure for landlords to assess and control the risk of Legionnaires’ disease is now a criminal breach.

Legionella Guard works by making it simple for landlords to develop a basic understanding of Legionella, how it grows and what it needs to thrive. Evidence of action being taken to prevent bacteria growth can also be stored securely to avoid conviction.

Leah said all landlords should be completing an annual risk assessment.

She added: “It’s to primarily protect your tenants, but also yourself.

“Once landlords complete our straightforward e-learning programme, they can ask risk independently without having to pay large fees to third parties.

“It’s a simple solution the sector has been crying out for, and is available to letting agents, local authorities, housing associations and private landlords.”

Primary symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include chest pain, a cough, high temperature and shortness of breath. Further information about Legionella Guard is available online via www.legionella-guard.co.uk.

Welsh adults using harmful habits to manage mental health

NEW POLLINg shows more than two-thirds of adults in Wales are using potentially harmful coping mechanisms when feeling stressed, anxious or low.

The Mental Health Foundation said the findings, released for Mental Health Awareness Week, show a need for the new Welsh Government to prioritise prevention and action on poor mental health.

The survey found that 69% of adults in Wales had taken harmful actions to cope with their mental health in the past month.

More than a third, 36%, said they had spent time isolating themselves from others, while 34% reported spending more time scrolling social media or going online as a way to deal with anxiety, stress or low mood.

Other commonly reported behaviours included comfort eating or overeating, at 27%, and oversleeping or not getting out of bed, at 31%.

The Mental Health Foundation said these behaviours were concerning because evidence suggests they can make mental health worse over time.

However, the polling also found that many people in Wales are taking positive steps to support their wellbeing.

More than four in five adults, 84%, had taken at least one helpful action to support their mental health. The most common were accessing nature, at 41%, doing something enjoyable such as a hobby, at 37%, and taking part

in physical activity or prioritising sleep and rest, at 35%.

The poll of 1,015 people in Wales was carried out by Opinium on behalf of the Mental Health Foundation. It was released to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from May 11 to 17.

Catherine Razzell, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at the Mental Health Foundation, said: “This polling tells us that, here in Wales, there is a concerning degree of harmful actions taken by people as a way of dealing with their feelings of poor mental health, such as doomscrolling or overeating.

“We are hopeful to see positive actions being taken by individuals to help maintain and improve good mental health. Tried and trusted activities such as connecting with nature, which many of us are fortunate to have access to in Wales, and taking part in physical exercise and rest, in equal measure, are all known to support our mental health.”

CALLS FOR ACTION

The polling found that nearly twothirds of people in Wales, 64%, are using at least one harmful coping mechanism alongside positive actions.

Only one in five, 20%, reported taking only helpful actions to support

said the results come at a significant moment following the Senedd election, with a new Welsh Government now in place.

Ms Razzell added: “Whilst it is good news people are finding ways to prioritise and protect their mental health and support those around them, more action is needed from our governments to create the conditions to support good mental health.

“We are seeing a once in a generation change politically in Wales. We are one year into the new ten-year mental health strategy for Wales and are keen to see how the new government will implement and resource this.

“In addition to a resourced focus on prevention, which we know has long-term economic benefits, we know that inequalities exist here that are huge barriers to good mental health, keeping people locked in poverty for generations.

“We want to see these issues tackled head-on by the new government for Wales. Now is the time for action and not talk.”

Mental Health Awareness Week is run by the Mental Health Foundation. This year’s theme is “Action”.

Accessible boat trips launched for Pembrokeshire residents

FREE accessible boat trips are being launched along the Pembrokeshire coastline as part of a new 12-month programme.

Blue Horizons CIC Surf Club has announced that its first trips will take place on Friday, May 22, with four sailings planned during the day.

The project has been made possible with support from the Port of Milford Haven and Dale Sailing Company Ltd.

Blue Horizons said the trips have been shaped alongside people with additional needs to create a more supportive and inclusive experience.

The organisation said accessibility was about more than simply getting onto a boat, but also about making sure people felt comfortable, supported and understood throughout the journey.

Its team members are DBS checked to work with children and vulnerable adults, first aid trained, experienced in supporting people with additional needs, and equipped with

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

specialist adaptive and accessible equipment.

The trips will be free for Pembrokeshire residents.

A spokesperson for Blue Horizons said: “We know that everyone experiences the world differently. If the boat feels too fast, we slow things down. If someone needs a break or wants to turn around early, that’s absolutely fine.

“There’s no pressure and no judgement — because the people on the boat trip understand those challenges themselves.

“The coastline belongs to everyone and we can’t wait to welcome more people onto the water over the next year.”

Anyone interested can register here: https://forms.gle/ WQjgsXSqhntS4zat7

Eisteddfod decorating campaign set to begin ahead of July event

Workshops will begin at Cardigan Castle on Sunday, May 17, with a special session for local businesses at 10:00am, followed by a community session for residents at 2:00pm.

Local artist Jenni Jones, a teacher at Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi, will lead the workshops. The sessions are free, open to all, and there is no need to register in advance.

Jenni said: “I’m really looking forward to working with communities across south Ceredigion to create materials to welcome the Eisteddfod to the area in August.

“This is a very special year for Cardigan and for the Eisteddfod, with the 850th anniversary celebrations, and organising a creative workshop to decorate the area has already sparked a number of colourful and innovative ideas.”

Manor Park Zoo, near Tenby, will host the Pembrokeshire workshop on Saturday, July 4, as part of the decorating weekend. The aim is to create a large piece of public art to be displayed on the road outside the main entrance.

Details of a workshop for west Carmarthenshire will be announced shortly.

Organisers and the Eisteddfod Executive Committee are also encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to decorate their own areas and create colourful displays to welcome visitors.

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Executive Committee Chair John Davies said there was already strong enthusiasm across the region.

He said: “Wherever I go, someone is sure to ask about the decorating campaign – whether it’s to find out when it will begin or to share local ideas for welcoming visitors.

“I’m certain there will be a strong sense of friendly competition between villages as we approach Eisteddfod week.

“We’ve all heard of the competitive spirit of singing and competing, and I’m sure a real community spirit will take hold as the area prepares.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to ensure our communities are looking their best for the celebrations, and

we’re all looking forward to getting started over the coming weeks.”

A decorating pack has already been published on the Eisteddfod website for anyone wishing to get involved.

Eisteddfod y Garreg Las will be held in Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire, from August 1-8, 2026. For more information, visit www. eisteddfod.cymru.

BADGER AND THE END OF THE AFFAIR

CATASTROPHIC. disastrous.

But not humbling.

Labour in Wales accepts the first two of those adjectives to describe their shellacking in last Thursday’s election.

But humbling? Never.

Labour’s defeat, like its reverses in government and its stupid policy decisions, were - and this is importantALL SOMEONE ELSE’S FAULT.

That’s because Labour’s former ministers, ex-MSs, and returning MSs are so firmly wedded to the doctrine of Labour’s infallibility. Labour’s failure, in their view, cannot possibly be anything to do with their tenure in government.

Of course, readers, that position is both ludicrous and an insult to voters’ intelligence.

The most bonkers take on the result was Vaughan Gething’s. The former Minister for Condescension and Announcements, whose blinkand-you-would-miss-it tenure at the top was stained by a funding scandal, allegations of vote-rigging by a key union, and division in Labour’s Senedd Group, appeared on TV and asked for his opinion of the results. Demonstrating just how detached from reality even a brief taste of a tiny morsel of power can make an ambitious politician, Mr Gething said that Labour would’ve done much better had he remained First Minister.

When Badger heard Getho the Humph say that, he almost fell off the settee. If he’d remained First Minister after losing a vote of no confidence, in which two of his colleagues abstained or were (ahem) absent, Labour’s Senedd Group would have noisily imploded in full view of the TV cameras. Even Humph’s own Cabinet colleagues wouldn’t back him.

Proof, if it were needed, that Labour’s politicians in Wales are delusional in their inability to accept the bleeding obvious or think beyond the event horizon of Cardiff Bay’s black hole (or their collective spoke-shave ends).

Badger’s take is that while Labour’s Westminster turmoil played a role in voters’ rejection of the Party in Wales, it was only the straw that broke the camel’s back. Labour’s electoral humiliation stemmed from other political wounds, all self-inflicted.

Labour made a total Horlicks of the

Welsh NHS virtually unaided. Voters could see that because there’s only so long you can spend standing next to someone, piddling on their shoes, and telling them to invest in umbrellas.

Next, Labour made far too much of the wonders of having a Labour government in Westminster.

With the Conservatives in power, Labour could promise the moon and stars to Wales, and it did so, safe in the knowledge that any failures in delivery could be firmly placed at the door of the interchangeable Conservative PMs since 2016. As soon as Labour won in 2024, all those promises disappeared faster than the morning mist. They were shown to be empty, manipulative, and cynical.

Then we come to the one policy that Labour got mostly right, but was introduced in such a high-handed, cackhanded and obviously ill-thought-out way that it caused more derision, scorn and hostility to the Labour Party than any other. 20mph.

Badger’s not going to rehearse welltrodden arguments. Still, the public’s disconnection from the devolved government in Cardiff Bay was exacerbated by the fact that the policy was pushed through without regard for the Welsh public’s wishes. A politically disastrous but well-meaning policy was

a major factor in the public’s perception of the Labour government in Cardiff Bay. They saw what Labour did and hated it. Labour’s relentless campaign against rural Wales was as cloth-eared, virtue-signalling, tokenistic, and selfdefeating as a suite of policies can be. In its original form, Labour’s policy document for agriculture even managed to avoid any mention of farmers. Despite Huw Irranca-Davies’s best efforts to recast the Welsh Government’s connections with the eighty per cent of Wales that is rural, the die was cast by years of Labour neglect, chiselling, and deceit. He did his best, but some bridges cannot be rebuilt.

All of the above comes on top of a string of other failures: poverty, child poverty, homelessness, and kickstarting Wales’s malfunctioning, misfiring economy. On each of those policies, Labour’s spin propelled it deeper into the political mire. You cannot rely on voters accepting everything you say as gospel truth when the evidence of their own eyes, ears, and everyday experiences shows their services are worse. The Welsh economy, such as it is, is being borne aloft on wishful thinking and several thousand zeppelins’ worth of hot air.

And, readers, if you thought the election results were bad enough for

Labour, there’s worse lurking in the undergrowth. Looking at the Ceredigion Penfro constituency in isolation, Labour did so badly that it would have needed around another 4,500 votes to creep into the sixth seat. As it was, Sam Kurtz’s notional vote share under the proportional system was still several thousand more than Labour’s TOTAL vote.

In Carmarthenshire, Plaid returned three and Reform three. Plaid was within about 150 votes of taking four of the six seats. All well and good, you might think. After all, Plaid are strong in Carmarthenshire. However, the largest town in West Wales is Llanelli, where, until the last couple of years, the Labour vote was weighed rather than counted. Labour is in real trouble in Llanelli, as it is across Wales’s post-industrial South Wales constituencies.

That’s because Labour’s policies and politics are no longer the politics and policies of the working class, particularly the working class who endure low wages in a low-skilled economy. Particularly those in the working class who are fed up with being cajoled, hectored, and bullied into being someone they are not or believing things they don’t.

Most Welsh voters are socially conservative and insular while simultaneously being inclined to welfare statism and fiscal liberalism. No wonder Reform UK, which appeals to voters’ innate insularity and conservatism while offering cake and jelly for everyone (unless you’re “foreign”, natch), cut through to Labour voters in the Valleys and South East Wales.

Reform is now by far the largest party in post-industrial Welsh constituencies. That should really trouble Labour, because it cannot outflank Reform on issues that cut through to working-class voters without blowing its activist and union base to bits.

Of course, it’s not all bad news for Labour in these parts.

If enough Labour MPs revolt, a welltimed hairdo could propel Citizen Tuffers into Number Ten.

Stranger things have happened.

After all, readers, until last week, nobody would’ve believed voters’ love affair with donkeys wearing red rosettes (see Mike Hedges) would end so brutally.

Contemporary art exhibition to mark reopening of Tenby Museum gallery

A CONTEMPORARy ART ExHIBITION featuring work by wellknown local artists and craftspeople will mark the reopening of Tenby Museum and Art gallery’s temporary exhibition space.

The exhibition will run from Monday, May 18, to Friday, September 4, following the completion of an extensive renovation project at the museum.

Organisers say the collaborative exhibition will celebrate the creative talent of Pembrokeshire and the cultural importance of Tenby.

Curator Anita Schwartz said: “We are so excited to bring together such an inspirational collection of original pieces to showcase the creative talents of our local community.

“The artists featured exemplify the continuing cultural importance of this vibrant Pembrokeshire town.”

Artists exhibiting include Naomi Tydeman RI, John Cahill, Kim Carlow, Ivan Black, Guy Manning, Tom Sloan, Graham Hadlow, Alex MacDonald, Anna Warchus, Alec Lewis and Abigail

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Blaylock-Squibbs.

The exhibition will open with a private view on Friday, May 15, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, giving visitors the chance to meet the artists and view the museum’s recently refurbished galleries.

The event is open to all, but guests are asked to RSVP by emailing info@ tenbymuseum.org.uk by 10:00am on Thursday, May 14.

Works on display will include John Cahill’s North Pembrokeshire Landscape, which was awarded first prize in the Welsh Prize category at the Wales Contemporary Exhibition at Chelsea Barracks, London.

Other featured works include Anna Warchus’ Seaside Plate, Tom Sloan’s Tenby, Guy Manning’s Castle Hill and Naomi Tydeman’s Blue Moon, Newgale.

The exhibition takes place at Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Tenby, SA70 7BP.

Rivers and beaches inspire Urdd Eisteddfod Chair and Crown

yOUNg competitors at this year’s Eisteddfod yr Urdd will be competing for a Chair and Crown rooted deeply in the landscape, history and coastline of ynys Môn.

The Chair and Crown for Eisteddfod yr Urdd Ynys Môn 2026 were unveiled on Tuesday evening (May 12) at a special event at Oriel Môn, Llangefni.

This year’s Chair has been made by carpenter Siôn Edwards, from Llanfaelog, working from a design concept by architect Rhiannon Williams, of DEWIS Architecture. It is sponsored by the Anglesey Agricultural Society.

The Crown has been created by jeweller Myfanwy Jones, originally from Llanfairpwll, with sponsorship from local estates, lettings and management agency Eiddo Cyf.

A CHAIR INSPIREd By

RIvERS

The Chair’s design takes inspiration from the theme “from the rivers to the sea”, as well as the windmills of Anglesey.

Siôn Edwards, a former Design and Technology teacher who now works as a self-employed carpenter, said the theme immediately appealed to him.

He said: “Fishing is one of my main hobbies, and I also set up the Cefni Conservation Group a few years ago to improve the condition of our island’s rivers, so I was very enthusiastic when I heard ‘from the rivers to the sea’.”

The Chair has been made from locally sourced sustainable ash, found after a lengthy search at Cwm Cynfal,

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

near Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Its exposed joints are both a design feature and a practical choice, allowing the Chair to be repaired in future if needed.

The piece also contains a link to Anglesey’s maritime past. The wedges in the Chair have been made using wood from an old RNLI lifeboat, Thomas Lingham the 4th, which left Rhosneigr in 1924 and may have been involved in the D-Day landings.

Siôn said: “A small part of the amazing story of Rhosneigr’s lifeboat now lives on in the Chair too.”

CROWN REFLECTS ISLANd BEACHES

The Crown has been designed by Myfanwy Jones, who studied Jewellery Design at Central Saint Martins in London before spending fifteen years living and working in the capital.

She returned to Ynys Môn in 2022 and said it was a special opportunity to create the Urdd Crown.

She said: “It’s lovely being back home, and what an amazing opportunity to create the Crown for the Eisteddfod this year – I’ve never designed a crown before.”

Before beginning the design, Myfanwy asked people on Instagram what came to mind when they thought of Ynys Môn. The most popular answer was beaches.

The finished Crown is made from brass and includes two opal stones, small jade stones and soft green velvet inside, echoing the colours of Anglesey’s coastline.

Myfanwy said: “It will be great to go to the Maes in my local area, and to see who takes home the Crown.”

‘yNyS MôN IS INgRAINEd’

Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts at Urdd Gobaith Cymru, said: “Ynys Môn is ingrained into the Chair and the Crown of the Urdd this year; their connection to the island can be seen and felt in every little detail, from the designs and materials to the stories and history that live within these

beautiful objects.

“We can’t wait for the Eisteddfod in the hope that we will see two winners take home this year’s Chair and Crown. We would like to thank the talented artists, committees and sponsors for their tireless work and generous support.”

Eisteddfod yr Urdd Ynys Môn 2026 will be held at the Anglesey Show Ground from Saturday, May 23, to Friday, May 29.

The Chairing ceremony will take place on the Thursday, sponsored by the Ivor and Aeres Evans Trust. The Crowning ceremony will be held on the Friday, with support from the James Pantyfedwen Foundation.

AMINg

007 First Light feels like the most confident James Bond game in years because it understands that Bond is at his best when style, tension, and spectacle are all moving together at the same pace. Rather than relying only on explosions and constant gunfire, the game builds its identity around atmosphere, espionage, and the pressure of staying one step ahead of powerful enemies. From the opening mission onward, there is a cinematic quality to everything, with sleek visual direction, sharp dialogue, and an excellent sense of pacing that makes even quiet moments feel important. The story follows a younger and less experienced Bond who is still learning when to trust people and when to rely purely on instinct, which gives the character more vulnerability than usual without losing the cool confidence fans expect. One of the strongest sections of the game takes place in Japan, where neon-lit streets, luxury high-rises, and hidden criminal networks create some of the

most memorable environments in the entire experience. The missions there balance stealth and action perfectly, allowing players to sneak through guarded compounds one moment before escaping across crowded city rooftops the next. The developers clearly put effort into making every location feel distinct, but Japan stands out because of the incredible lighting, music, and atmosphere that turn each mission into something genuinely tense and stylish. Gameplay is equally impressive thanks to the mix of gadgets, hand-to-hand combat, driving sequences, and stealth mechanics that encourage creativity rather than forcing players into endless firefights. Combat feels weighty without becoming overly complicated, while the stealth system rewards patience and observation in a way that suits the Bond fantasy perfectly. The game also succeeds because it remembers that charm is just as important as action in a James Bond story,

so conversations, deception, and manipulation often matter as much as weapons. Visually, 007 First Light is stunning, with detailed environments, expressive character animation, and dramatic lighting that constantly reinforces the spythriller tone. The soundtrack deserves praise as well because it blends orchestral Bond-style themes with more modern electronic influences, especially during the Japan missions where the music adds a unique energy to every encounter. While a few sections drag slightly and some enemy AI can occasionally feel predictable, those flaws never damage the overall experience in a major way. In the end, 007 First Light succeeds because it captures the fantasy of being James Bond better than most games ever have, combining espionage, action, glamour, and suspense into a polished and highly entertaining adventure that feels both classic and modern at the same time.

Mortal Kombat II crashes into cinemas with exactly the kind of unapologetic excess fans of the franchise have been waiting for, delivering a savage, chaotic and surprisingly entertaining spectacle that finally feels closer to the spirit of the games than the 2021 reboot ever managed. From the opening moments the film embraces its identity with confidence, throwing viewers straight into brutal arena battles, over-the-top fatalities and a barrage of fan-service moments that somehow walk the line between ridiculous and genuinely exciting. director Simon McQuoid clearly understands that nobody is coming to a Mortal Kombat film looking for subtle arthouse storytelling, and the movie is all the better for leaning fully into its bloodsoaked insanity.

The biggest surprise is just how much fun Karl Urban is as Johnny Cage. He completely steals the film with a performance that balances washed-up Hollywood arrogance, self-

aware comedy and genuine action-hero charisma. Cage becomes the audience’s way into the madness, and Urban looks like he is having the time of his life chewing through every one-liner and brutal fight scene. His chemistry with returning cast members and newcomers alike gives the film an energy that never really slows down, even when the plot occasionally collapses under the weight of its own mythology. Adeline Rudolph also makes a strong impression as Kitana, bringing a cooler and more regal presence that contrasts nicely with the film’s louder personalities, while Martyn Ford’s towering Shao Kahn feels physically intimidating in a way few modern blockbuster villains manage anymore.

What really elevates the film is the action choreography. The fights are bigger, faster, nastier and far more inventive this time around, with several sequences feeling like live-action recreations of classic arcade matches.

Longtime fans will recognise iconic arenas, signature moves and lovingly recreated fatalities

that are so outrageously violent they become almost comedic. The movie understands that Mortal Kombat should feel like an event, and the cinema experience absolutely enhances that with booming sound design, crowd reactions and a visual style that thrives on the big screen. There are moments where the audience will laugh, cringe and cheer at the exact same time.

That said, the film is still far from perfect. The dialogue can be painfully clunky, several characters are underused, and the story mostly exists as a thin excuse to move fighters from one arena to another. Emotional depth is minimal, and anyone unfamiliar with the games may struggle to connect with the endless stream of lore, rivalries and supernatural exposition. But strangely, those flaws almost become part of the charm because the movie never pretends to be anything other than an outrageously violent fantasy action spectacle.

In the end, Mortal Kombat II succeeds because it finally embraces the franchise’s identity without hesitation. It is loud, ridiculous, hyperviolent and proudly excessive, but it also delivers the kind of crowdpleasing entertainment that blockbuster cinema often forgets how to make. Fans wanting brutal fights, iconic characters and gloriously over-the-top action will leave satisfied, while even casual viewers may find themselves won over by the film’s sheer commitment to chaos and fun.

Tech and Taff

Butt, maybe Whitehall can build things after all

THERE we are then, butt. Somewhere in Whitehall, a civil servant has done something truly shocking. Not lost a laptop. Not sent an email to the wrong “all staff” list. Not commissioned a £12m website that only works in Internet Explorer.

No, mun. They built their own computer system — and it saved millions.

The story is this: the UK Government had been using Palantir technology to help run the Homes for Ukraine scheme. That was the emergency programme set up after Russia’s invasion, matching Ukrainian refugees with people in Britain who could offer accommodation.

At the start, speed mattered. Palantir got a system up quickly. Fair enough. When your house is on fire, you do not first convene a procurement sub-committee to discuss the hosepipe.

But free, in technology, is often like a “free” puppy. Lovely on day one. Then come the bills, the food, the vet, the chewed skirting boards, and before you know it you are explaining to your wife why the puppy needs a £5.5m support contract.

Palantir’s early help was free for six months. Later contracts were worth millions. Then the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government replaced the system with one built in-house. According to the department, the new platform is more flexible, gives it more control over data and code, and is already saving millions a year.

Now, butt, this is where it gets interesting.

For years, governments have been told that the private sector knows best. If a system is complicated, call a giant tech company. If the data is sensitive, call a giant tech company. If nobody understands the problem, call a giant tech company and hope their logo looks reassuring on a PowerPoint slide.

But there is another option: build proper capability inside government.

Not for everything, mind. Sometimes you do need outside specialists, especially when a crisis lands on your desk at 9:00am and ministers want a national platform by lunchtime. But the longterm running of public services should not always mean being tied to expensive suppliers who

understand the system better than the department does.

That is not “anti-business”. It is common sense.

The phrase being used here is “sovereign technology”. Very grand, isn’t it? Sounds like a robot wearing a crown. But the idea is simple enough: public bodies should not be completely dependent on foreign tech giants for systems that involve sensitive data, public money and national resilience.

There are also wider questions around Palantir. Some say its technology works and is badly needed. Others are uneasy about its work with US immigration enforcement, defence contracts, policing, and military uses overseas. Those arguments will continue.

But this particular lesson is more practical: if you build skills inside government, you keep knowledge inside government. You can change the system without paying through the nose. You can see how it works.

You can fix it. You can adapt it.

That matters in Wales too.

We have public bodies here dealing with health, housing, transport, social care, education and local government systems. Too often, technology is treated as something mysterious that must be bought in from somewhere else. Then, when it goes wrong, nobody locally can explain it, repair it, or challenge the bill.

Butt, imagine if councils, health boards and Welsh Government departments invested properly in their own digital teams. Not just a poor IT officer called Gareth in a cupboard with a broken printer and 400 password reset requests. I mean serious in-house expertise: developers, data specialists, cybersecurity staff, user researchers and product managers who understand the public service they are building for.

Because technology is not just wires and screens. It is policy made real.

A bad housing system delays families. A bad hospital booking system wastes appointments. A bad benefits system leaves people in distress. A bad council website turns a simple form into a spiritual crisis.

So yes, sometimes the private sector can help. Sometimes it must. But the public sector should never become helpless without it.

The Homes for Ukraine replacement shows something important: given the right resources, public servants can build systems that are cheaper, better, and more accountable.

And if that shocks anyone in Westminster, perhaps they have been listening to too many consultants.

There we are, butt. A government IT story with a happy ending. I’m off for a lie down.

Nemesis is the kind of thriller that quietly pulls you in rather than grabbing you immediately with explosions and endless twists, and that slow-burning confidence ends up being one of its biggest strengths. What begins as a fairly straightforward investigation into financial corruption gradually opens into something far more tense and morally complicated, with the series building an atmosphere of paranoia and distrust that hangs over every episode. The writing trusts the audience to keep up, refusing to overexplain its world of offshore accounts, political influence and corporate crime, and while that occasionally makes the plot feel dense, it also gives the show a sense of intelligence that many modern crime dramas lack. The performances are excellent across the board, particularly from the two female leads, who bring warmth and humanity to a story that could easily have become cold and procedural. Their determination, frustration and growing sense of danger feel believable throughout, grounding the larger conspiracy elements in real emotional stakes. Visually, the series has a sleek, restrained style that suits the material perfectly, with moody cityscapes and understated cinematography giving everything a tense,

modern feel without becoming overly flashy. What really makes Nemesis stand out, though, is its understanding that whitecollar crime can be just as destructive and frightening as physical violence, and the show mines genuine suspense from boardrooms, legal manoeuvres and hidden financial networks rather than relying solely on action scenes. At times the pacing can feel deliberately slow and some viewers may find the

intricate plotting a little murky, but the patience pays off as the series steadily tightens its grip and delivers a finale that feels earned rather than manufactured. In a television landscape crowded with forgettable crime dramas, Nemesis manages to feel thoughtful, mature and surprisingly gripping, offering a clever and atmospheric thriller that rewards viewers willing to give it their full attention.

HOROSCOPES

and not saying a word. Next time you’re with a friend or loved one, resist the urge to keep the conversation going. Just let the quiet come over both of you and see what happens. You’ll feel comforted and may find that your thoughts are evident enough. There’s no need to fill up empty space with empty chatter.

CANCER

Like a toddler distracted by shiny objects, you might have some trouble focusing on one thing at a time today. In part, you can’t be blamed. There’s a lot of stimulation coming your way as well as many tempting avenues for you to explore. Don’t chide yourself for your scattered thoughts. This is just your creativity awakening. Explore as much as you can and try to satisfy your voracious hunger. As long as you have the urge, you should follow it. LEO All the elements of your life are working together harmoniously now, so enjoy the music! You’ve got a good thing going socially, and you should put more effort into maintaining that. Are you sure all the people in your life know how important they are to you? It wouldn’t hurt to give a few of them a call or send them a silly message to let them know you’re thinking of them and appreciating them. They can’t read your mind.

VIRGO

Nonstop activity keeps you extremely entertained today, whether you’re watching from the sidelines or you’re actively involved. If you do choose to hop into the middle of the action, you can sway the entire crowd and make a real difference, so consider rolling up your sleeves and diving in. You’ll have the energy you need to stick with it through to the end. Right now your diplomacy skills are only outmatched by your ability to charm the pants off of anyone. LIBRA Get ready for a wonderful sense of relief today. Something arrives in your in-box and answers a question you were afraid to ask. Aren’t you glad you had the patience to wait this out? If you’ve been waiting for your ship to get easier to navigate, that day is here. Celebrate the good news by showing your happiness. Spread it around and let everyone know that patience isn’t just a virtue. It can be a blessing too.

SCORPIO

Emotional conflicts are swimming in your head, and they could distract you from the tasks at hand. Luckily, any of these issues will be good to ponder. You have some tough choices to make, but you really can’t go wrong no matter what you decide. Ask a friend to hear you out. Share what you’re going through with someone you trust, someone who values honesty above sweet talk. Don’t worry that you will come off as weak or indecisive. The people in your life want to help.

SAGITTARIUS

Just like money, fresh ideas can burn a hole in your pocket, urging you to take them out and spend them! A new inclination to do something unexpected may hit you like a ton of bricks this morning, so pay attention and consider revising the plans you had for today. When lightning strikes, you need to pay attention and get some momentum going. Try not to delay acting on your newest, craziest ideas. Whatever you start today has a huge chance for success.

CAPRICORN

Feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day tasks of your life? It might do you some good to trim back on your lifestyle. If you pare things down to just the bare necessities, you’ll find that life can be a lot simpler than you thought. This selfimposed hectic energy is not good for the relationships you’re trying to build. People don’t need fancy surroundings or scheduled itineraries. They just need you. So clear your schedule, make a lunch date, and keep it simple! AQUARIUS Don’t be surprised if quite a few people reach out for your help today in both personal and professional realms. There are many erratic energies humming around your circle of friends and family right now, and you seem to be the only person who has the antidote. But don’t

Green Man names five finalists for Rising competition

FIvE emerging acts have been shortlisted for this year’s green Man Rising final, with the winner set to open the Mountain Stage at the sold-out Welsh festival.

The final will take place at Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff on Tuesday, June 2, hosted by BBC 6 Music’s Huw Stephens.

Now in its seventeenth year, the competition gives new artists from across the UK the chance to perform at Green Man, Wales’ largest music, arts and science festival.

This year’s finalists are Brighton school friends Glasshouse Red Spider Mite, Leeds dance-punk duo Kiosk, Heist or Hit signees The Slow Country, Tall Child — the project of London-based Nigerian/Indian musician Zha Gandhi — and bilingual English-Welsh band Cyn Cwsg.

Organisers said a record number of entries were received for the 2026 competition. The shortlist was chosen by an industry panel featuring representatives from Clash, DIY, NME, Dazed, Wonderland, The Quietus, So Young and BBC Radio Wales.

The winning act will secure the opening slot on Green Man’s Mountain Stage later this summer, along with a week of studio time at Prah Recordings and a physical vinyl release with Dinked Edition.

The runners-up will also appear on the Green Man Rising Stage, which has previously hosted acts including The Last Dinner Party, English Teacher, Westside Cowboy, Silver Gore, Adult DVD and Keo.

Each shortlisted artist will also receive a professional recording at the festival to help showcase their music to labels, agents and promoters.

five finalists were chosen from a record breaking number of acts.

“When Rising was launched 18 years ago we could never have imagined how many artists have been

supported in their early careers. Our industry panel will choose which band will open the Mountain Stage at Green Man 2026.”

Free tickets for the Green Man Rising final are available via Dice. Those attending will also be entered into a raffle to win two tickets to the sold-out Green Man 2026.

Labour promised caLm, but voters wanted courage

SIR KIER STARMER won by not being the Conservatives. That is no longer enough.

WHEN Labour won the general election, many voters were not asking for miracles. They were asking for grown-up government.

After years of Conservative chaos, the promise was simple: steadiness, competence and an end to the circus at Westminster.

But steadiness is not the same as leadership.

Less than two years on, Sir Keir Starmer’s government already feels uncertain, defensive and strangely small. It has the machinery of power, but not yet the confidence of a government that knows exactly where it wants to take the country.

That matters here in Wales.

Families are still struggling with

bills. Farmers still feel battered by decisions made far from the land. Small businesses are still facing rising costs. Public services still feel stretched. In communities like ours, people do not judge government by slogans. They judge it by whether life becomes easier, fairer and more secure.

Labour promised change. The danger now is that voters see only management.

Sir Keir has tried to occupy the safest possible ground on almost every major issue. On Europe, Labour knows Brexit has damaged trade and weakened Britain’s place in the world, but still fears saying too much about closer ties. On immigration, the government appears more interested in sounding tough than explaining how Britain can have a system that is both fair and workable.

This is the problem with politics built mainly on caution. It can win an election, especially against a tired and divided opponent. But it cannot sustain a government unless it is matched by conviction.

People will accept difficult choices if they believe there is a purpose behind them. What they will not accept for long is drift.

The rise of Reform UK should worry Labour deeply. Not because Reform has all the answers, but because it has recognised something the main parties too often forget: voters want to feel heard. They want plain language. They want politicians who seem to believe in something.

Sir Keir Starmer’s great weakness is that too many people still cannot say what that something is.

Labour did not win power because

the country had fallen in love with it. It won because voters had run out of patience with the Conservatives. That is a fragile mandate unless it is turned into a clear national mission.

The Prime Minister still has time to change course. But he needs to stop governing as if the safest option is always the best one.

Britain did need calm after years of chaos. But calm without courage soon becomes drift. And drift is not change.

Labour’s chips are blowing across the docks

LABOUR is in a right old state, squark.

Down here on Milford Haven docks, even the gulls have stopped fighting over chips long enough to watch Westminster tearing itself apart.

One minute they are all flapping about stability, the next they are circling Keir Starmer like a wounded mackerel dropped beside the fish sheds.

Wes Streeting is said to be testing the wind. Andy Burnham is perched up north, looking like a gull who has spotted a half-eaten pasty but is pretending he has not. Nigel Farage is swooping about in the background, all grin and feathers, waiting for somebody else to drop the sandwich.

Squark!

Now, Stephen does not like political bloodsports. I prefer honest scavenging. But politics is not kind, tidy or sentimental. Once the public has decided a leader is finished, there is usually no flying back from it. You can flap, squawk and peck at the air, but the tide has already gone out.

Starmer may be decent. He may even have done more than people give him credit for. But voters are not reading ministerial lists of

achievements. They are looking at bills, rent, wages, waiting lists, mortgage payments and the price of everything from bread to bait.

Labour’s problem is not that nothing has happened. It is that too many people feel nothing has changed.

That is deadly.

There have been policies with real weight: help for children, breakfast clubs, free meals, renters’ rights, rail nationalisation, higher wages, more NHS appointments and green investment. But if the public cannot feel it in their pockets or their lives, it might as well be a chip wrapper blowing across the quay.

And Labour has another problem. It looks scared. Scared of bold ideas. Scared of tax reform. Scared of Europe. Scared of upsetting the wrong people. Scared, above all, of sounding like it knows why it exists.

Squark!

A party cannot win

by whispering into a headwind. It cannot simply tell people that things would have been worse under the other lot. That may be true, but it is not enough. Down here on the docks, no gull ever won a chip by explaining that another gull would have stolen it more aggressively.

You have to swoop.

The danger for Labour is that Farage understands the swoop. He sees the anger, the boredom and the sense that the country is stuck. He does not need a proper plan while the others look frightened of their own shadows. He only needs to look like movement.

That is why Starmer’s caution has become such a problem. In quieter times, it might have looked sensible. After years of chaos, he offered seriousness, process and order. But Britain is not in a quiet time. People want to know who is going to fix the roof, fill the potholes, open the surgery, sort the trains and stop their children leaving home with no chance of buying one of their own.

A new leader would not magically fix that. Changing the bird at the front does not help if the flock is still flying into the harbour wall. But doing nothing looks worse.

Labour needs someone who can say clearly what the next five years are for. Not just

management. Not just not being the Conservatives. Not just “stability” repeated until everyone falls asleep on the harbour railings.

It needs a story.

Maybe that means proper tax reform. Maybe it means building homes like the country is in an emergency, because it is. Maybe it means finally being honest about Brexit, Europe and the price we are still paying. Maybe it means telling older, wealthier voters that the young cannot be expected to carry everything forever.

Hard truths, squark. Not easy ones.

Starmer could still leave with dignity. He has steadied Labour, won power, and started some useful work. That should not be sneered at. But politics is cruel, and the public has already started looking past him.

The country is tired. The voters are impatient. The old excuses have gone stale. Labour needs a plan, not another lecture. It needs urgency, not caution dressed up as seriousness.

Because out on the docks, we gulls know one thing: when the tide turns, you move quickly — or you get stranded in the mud.

Toby is one of the charity’s longest stays

Toby is currently in the care of RSPCA Bryn y Maen Animal Centre after he was transferred from another centre as he had received no interest.

Despite travelling 185 miles from RSPCA Great Ayton Animal Centre in Middlesbrough to Upper Colwyn Bay, the fouryear-old tan terrier is still being overlooked.

Toby was rescued by the RSPCA from a multi-animal household and is now enjoying human interaction and affection.

Animal Care Assistant

Sarah Davies said: “Toby is such a lovely boy and his little tail never stops wagging - but unfortunately he has not found his forever home yet.

“He loves sniffing about and exploring the world and is keen to make friends at the centre. Toby is super clever and loves to figure out what handlers ask of him for food and praise. He hops into our vans with ease and travelled well during his transfer to our centre.

“Toby has his favourite people at the centre and enjoys fusses once he has built his confidence with you. He enjoys snoozing in his kennel and spending time with his nose in the sunshine. When he isn’t sniffing about, he is snoozing

the day away!

“While at Great Ayton, Toby was desensitised to household items like the hoover which he previously found scary. So he has shown us he is super quick to learn new things and is keen to train with treats and plenty of praise.

“We are baffled as to why

he has spent so long in RSPCA care, and hope this month will be his month to find his perfect match!”

Toby is looking for an adult only home with no other pets.

Seven-month-old kitten Frieda is also looking for a home. Sadly Frieda was recently returned to the centre

after finding the home stressful.

Sarah said: “Unfortunately Frieda’s home didn’t work out, so we are now looking for an adult-only home for her. She is well loved amongst the staff after being a previous hand rear kitten at our centre.

“Frieda is a sweet girl and loves to be around people. She enjoys a fuss from her friends but equally loves to run around chasing her favourite toys. Freda has also spent some time in a foster home and has easily won the hearts of her carers. But she can’t wait to find a family to call her own.”

Frieda is also looking for a pet-free household and would require outdoor access once she has settled into her home.

If you are interested in Toby or Frieda please express an interest via the online application form.

Rising cruelty, neglect and large-scale animal rescues led to a crisis point last summer. A six year high of animals in RSPCA care, almost half in emergency boarding because our centres are full. We urgently need to find loving homes so that we can continue to bring thousands of animals in need to safety. Please visit rspca. org.uk/findapet today.

Positive Estyn report celebrates strengths of Prendergast Community Primary School

PREN d ER g AST COMMUNITy PRIMARy SCHOOL is celebrating a highly positive inspection report from Estyn, which highlights the school’s strong sense of community, inclusive ethos, and commitment to pupil wellbeing and progress.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Inspectors described the school as “an inclusive, supportive community with a strong safeguarding culture”, where pupils feel respected, valued, and able to influence school life through leadership groups.

Pupils’ behaviour was also praised, with inspectors noting that it contributes to a calm and purposeful learning environment.

STRONg SUPPORT FOR LEARNERS

The report highlights the strong relationships between staff and pupils, which help foster

enthusiasm for learning.

Inspectors also recognised the school’s approach to supporting learners as a key strength. Staff use assessment effectively to monitor progress and provide strong support for pupils with additional learning needs, those from low-income households, and children from service families.

CURRICULUM PRAISEd

The school’s curriculum was praised for being shaped by staff, governors, pupils and parents, ensuring it reflects both the local community and the wider world.

Pupils’ literacy and numeracy development was also highlighted positively. Inspectors found that pupils communicate confidently in English while developing strong Welsh speaking skills.

Reading is taught systematically, helping pupils become fluent readers, while mathematics provision supports the development of number skills and reasoning.

SPOTLIgHT RECOgNITION

School leaders were

commended for maintaining a clear focus on pupil wellbeing and progress.

The report notes that robust monitoring and evaluation, alongside strong professional learning for staff, are helping to drive ongoing improvements. Inspectors also highlighted the effective use of grant funding to reduce the impact of poverty, as well as the strength of partnerships with parents and other schools.

The school was awarded a “Spotlight” by Estyn, recognising highly effective practice worthy of sharing with other schools. The spotlight focused on the school’s pupil-led library, which promotes a culture of reading across the school.

Headteacher Louise John said: “We are delighted that the inspection recognised the many strengths of the school and we are extremely proud of our pupils, staff, governors and families.

“We remain committed to continuous improvement and we welcome current and prospective families to our next open day on Tuesday, May 12, from 3:30pm to 6:00pm.”

Holocaust survivor’s story shared with pupils at Ysgol Greenhill

MORE than 150 pupils at ysgol greenhill have heard the moving Holocaust testimony of the late Zigi Shipper BEM, who survived some of the most terrible events of the Second World War.

The special visit took place on Tuesday (May 5), when Mrs Lu Lawrence came to the school to speak about the life of her father.

Zigi Shipper survived the Lodz ghetto, AuschwitzBirkenau, Stutthof concentration camp and a death march, among other traumatic events. When he was liberated by British forces, he was just 15 years old.

Mrs Lawrence spoke to Key Stage 3 and GCSE pupils, sharing not only her father’s testimony but also her own family’s story.

Ysgol Greenhill said more than 150 students attended the session and were “exceptionally well behaved”, asking thoughtful questions during the visit.

The school said: “In the current climate of increasing anti-Semitism, understanding the dangers of prejudice is more important than ever.”

The visit was arranged by the

Holocaust Educational Trust, which works with schools to ensure young people continue to learn about the Holocaust

and the dangers of hatred and discrimination.

The session gave pupils an opportunity to hear a deeply

personal account of survival, loss and resilience, and to reflect on why Holocaust education remains so important today.

German importers undertake Welsh Lamb tour

A group of german meat importers and journalists have recently visited Welsh farms and abattoirs to understand more about PgI Welsh Lamb and expand their range of branded PgI Welsh Lamb products.

Buyers from a high-end specialist meat importer from Germany were joined by journalists and chefs to see for themselves the unique way Welsh Lamb is produced.

Organised by Welsh red meat levy body Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales, the group visited the Dunbia’s processing site in Llanybydder, Carmarthenshire as well as local sheep farmers Rhun Williams from Tregaron and Richard Roderick in Brecon who were able to demonstrate the traditional farming practices and showcase the natural environment where Welsh Lamb is produced.

The group were also able to sample PGI Welsh Lamb for themselves at the Falcondale Hotel in Lampeter where a Welsh Lamb supper was served.

Tom Coles, UK Lamb Sales Manager, at Dunbia commented: “It was great to welcome these buyers to learn more about PGI Welsh Lamb production across the supply chain.

We have been building ties with German buyers over many years, and this visit allowed

us to demonstrate our unique capabilities in a competitive lamb market whilst highlighting the opportunities PGI Welsh Lamb offers for consumers looking for high quality, nutritious products.”

European markets remain important for PGI Welsh Lamb. HCC analysis suggests that the value of Welsh exports of lamb to Germany totalled almost £41million which was 18% of the total volume exported from Wales during 2025.*

Jason Craig, Market Development Lead from Hybu Cig Cymru explained: “These buyers were delighted seeing the Welsh landscape in full glory and meeting with local farmers Richard and Rhun Williams who shared their expert knowledge and the story behind Welsh Lamb. Equally, they were impressed with the contemporary and professional processing facilities at the Dunbia site.

“The trip has resulted in the importer seeking to expand their range of branded PGI Welsh Lamb and PR coverage for PGI Welsh Lamb in Germany.

The visit forms part of HCC’s priority to increase branded PGI Welsh Lamb and PGI Welsh Beef sales in the domestic and export markets, as recently published in their new strategy document Vision 2030.

NFU Cymru urges new Senedd and Welsh Government to match industry’s ambitions

NFU Cymru has called on the new Senedd and Welsh government to match the Welsh agricultural sector’s ambitions and work with farmers to help them deliver for the benefit of all of Wales.

With the dust still settling after the Senedd Elections results this evening (Friday 8th May), no one party has emerged with a majority. Following the results of the vote, NFU Cymru President Abi Reader has reiterated the union’s commitment to working with the new government and all Members of the Senedd from across the chamber to deliver on members’ priorities, ambitions that will boost Wales’ economy and food security, whilst also delivering for the environment.

NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: “This round of elections to Cardiff Bay coincides with what is set to be a defining period for the farming industry. Welsh farmers have bold ambitions for their businesses and the wider industry - and our members’ aspiration is to realise the opportunities that lay ahead of us. To enable this, we need the new Senedd and the new Welsh Government to show equal ambition and to play their part in assisting the industry to fulfil its potential.

“Backing Welsh agriculture delivers multiple benefits for wider Wales. For example, the Welsh food and drink sector, which is fundamentally underpinned by the safe, high quality produce from Welsh farms, is one of this country’s finest assets and generates a turnover of more than £10 billion per year. Despite the fantastic growth in recent years, there remains further untapped potential to sustainably grow the Welsh food and drink sector’s success story. Conflict in the Middle East has once again highlighted the importance of a strong

domestic food production base. To this end, NFU Cymru is seeking to work with the next Welsh Government on the development of a comprehensive farm to fork strategy to secure the continued supply of safe, high quality and affordable food for our nation.

“Integral to seizing the opportunities that lay ahead of us is the provision of a ring-fenced, multiannual budget for Welsh agriculture. It’s imperative that this new budget is adjusted for inflation and maintains the 70:30 split between the universal and optional and collaborative layers of the Sustainable Farming Scheme, providing vital stability to Welsh farming. We ask the next Welsh

Government to work with us to evolve the Sustainable Farming Scheme to ensure it delivers for all sectors and all areas of Wales.

“Away from the exciting opportunities to be capitalised upon there are, inevitably, existing areas where we believe Members of Senedd and the Welsh Government should enact change. One of our members’ long-standing concerns remains the Control Agricultural Pollution Regulations, which have served as a blunt and inefficient instrument burdening farmers with high costs and unintended consequences for the environment. Moreover, NFU Cymru is calling for a long-overdue independent

review of the wider regulatory burden of red-tape and bureaucracy.

“A similarly long-term issue requiring government attention is bovine TB and its grip on Welsh herds and farming families. There is an urgent need for a step change in how we tackle this disease and it is essential that we have a refreshed strategy that addresses the disease wherever it exists, addressing the reservoir of disease in wildlife and not just exclusively in cattle.

“NFU Cymru is ready to work with the new Welsh Government and Senedd to deliver on our members’ priorities.”

NFU Cymru welcomes new Cabinet Minister appointment

NFU Cymru has offered its congratulations to Llyr gruffydd MS following his appointment as the new Welsh government Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability.

Wales’ new First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth MS confirmed Llyr Gruffydd MS as Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability on Thursday 13th May, as details of who would serve in the new Welsh Government were published.

NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: “We offer our congratulations to both Rhun ap Iorwerth on becoming Wales new First Minister and to

Llyr Gruffydd on his appointment as Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability.

“NFU Cymru has worked closely with Llyr in his capacity as Plaid Cymru’s Shadow Rural Affairs Spokesperson for a number of years and he brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the sector to this role at a critical time for the industry.

“Plaid Cymru’s election manifesto contains several commitments that align very closely with a number of the key policy asks in NFU Cymru’s own Senedd Elections manifesto. We congratulate Llyr Gruffydd on his appointment today and we look

forward to continuing our positive working relationship in his new capacity as Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, working

together to deliver on those shared areas of ambition for the benefit of Welsh farmers and rural Wales.”

Clean cut key to maximising wool value

BRITISH WOOL recently reported that fleece value is at its highest for 10 years. With the shearing season underway for 2026, Heiniger’s Hefin Rowlands suggests that there has never been a better opportunity for farms to realise the best price for wool.

“The average payment increased to 68p per kilo last year, which was up from just 40p. Higher grade wools from breeds such as Cheviots are returning 85p per kilo. This makes the preparation for shearing and the shearing process all the more important,” he says.

quality equipment will also play a big part in how efficient the shearing process is.

“Factory sharp blades and the correct clothing are essential to any shearer. Heiniger has been manufacturing world-leading shears since 1946, so we know how important the right shears are to getting the best cut. But even the best shears need to have clean, sharp combs and cutters, which is why we offer free postage for servicing our equipment,” he says.

British Wool suggests that returns for the 2026 cut could rise by a further 25p-30p per kilo, meaning some wool will realise prices in excess of £1 per kilo.

“There is strong demand and it pays to meet this with the best quality wool. Investing in equipment and a good set of shears has never been more important for farms looking to take advantage of rising wool prices. However, nothing beats experience and this is where professional shearers can help make all the difference,” he says.

Mr Rowlands points to the need for preparation to make the process better for shearers and sheep.

“Fasting, dagging and separating ewes from lambs will help, whether a farm is bringing in professional shearers or not. Straw, dirt and dung in fleeces seriously detracts from wool value, so both sheep and the area being used to shear should be as clean as possible,” he says.

He suggests that using the best

Above all, Mr Rowlands advocates that farms give shearing the attention it deserves, especially in a year when returns are projected to be high.

“Spending on the right equipment, preparing sheep well and working carefully to produce a clean fleece will pay dividends. The average fleece weight is around 4 kilos which means a flock of 250 ewes could return upwards of £1000 this year, and that makes investing time and effort in shearing a worthy choice to maximise returns,” he concludes.

New RSPCA poll shows opposition to badger culling in Wales

NEW polling from RSPCA Cymru suggests there is no clear public support in Wales for badger culling as a way of tackling bovine TB.

The charity says the new Welsh Government must “listen to people’s love of wildlife” after a survey found that just over a quarter of people in Wales actively support the culling of badgers.

The polling, released today (May 13), comes as 96 Members of the Senedd prepare to take their seats in the newly-expanded Welsh Parliament, with bovine TB expected to become one of the major animal welfare and farming issues facing the next administration.

RSPCA Cymru said only 27% of those surveyed supported badger culling, while 46% were opposed. A further 28% said they did not know.

The charity is calling on Plaid Cymru, which is seeking to form a minority government following the appointment of Rhun ap Iorwerth MS as First Minister, and on MSs from all parties, to reject culling and focus instead on what it describes as a science-led, cattle-focused approach.

The survey of 1,033 adults in Wales found that 63% of respondents were uncomfortable with badger culling being carried out using lethal methods approved by government authorities.

More than two-thirds, 68%, said they were uncomfortable with public money being used to

fund the culling of badgers.

The polling also suggested that the issue could affect political support. More than half of those surveyed, 52%, said they would be less likely to support a political party that backed badger culling, while only 7% said they would be more likely to do so.

RSPCA Cymru said the figures showed that badger culling was “unsupported by a clear majority” of the Welsh public.

Billie-Jade Thomas, senior public affairs manager for RSPCA Cymru, said: “How the new Welsh Government approaches bovine TB will be one of the biggest talking points concerning animals in Wales in the coming years.

“This polling should remind all newly-elected Senedd Members that the Welsh public cares about how badgers are treated, and politicians must listen to people’s love of wildlife.

“There is a clear lack of public support for badger culling in Wales, and those supporting such action could see their support wane among their constituents.”

She added: “Wildlife control and badgers were featured in several parties’ Senedd manifestos, including Plaid Cymru, Wales’ new biggest party.

“We now hope MSs from all political groups recognise that badger culling is unsupported by a clear majority of the Welsh public, and they should instead prioritise a science-led, cattlefocused approach to combatting bovine TB.”

THIS week marks Mental Health Awareness Week, an important opportunity to raise awareness of emotional and mental wellbeing and to encourage open and positive conversations around mental health.

Welsh farmers are rightly recognised for the care and attention they give to their livestock, crops and machinery. However, this week serves as an important reminder that we must also take care of ourselves and our own wellbeing. Looking after a farm is demanding, but looking after the people behind it is just as important.

The polling also found that almost 98% of people in Wales consider protecting Welsh wildlife to be important, with 69% saying it is very important.

Badgers were among the most popular species named in the survey, with 73% of respondents choosing them as one of the species they were most concerned about when asked to select their top three.

RSPCA Cymru said badgers remain one of Britain’s most distinctive and misunderstood wild mammals.

Ms Thomas said: “Badgers are such wonderful creatures and, like all wildlife, deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.

“A growing body of evidence suggests that the majority of bovine TB infection occurs between cattle, with scientific evidence suggesting that badger culling is not an effective way to reduce the disease in cattle.

“The new administration must always tackle bTB in a way which does not needlessly pose a threat to one of our most distinctive, well-loved yet misunderstood species of wildlife.”

RSPCA Cymru’s manifesto for the seventh Senedd, Securing A Better Future For Animal Welfare in Wales, calls for badger culling to be rejected, describing it as ineffective and inhumane.

The poll was carried out online by Savanta between April 24 and May 12, 2026. Figures were weighted to be representative of adults in Wales.

There are also simple but valuable steps we can all take to support our mental wellbeing. Taking time to reflect on emotions can help manage stress and make clearer decisions, while writing thoughts down may help process difficult feelings over time.

Staying connected with others can also make a real difference. Whether it is a coffee, a walk, or a catch-up at the mart, meaningful conversations can help reduce feelings of isolation and lift the mood.

The causes of poor mental health within the farming community can vary from farm to farm, but the nature of agriculture can often leave farmers more vulnerable to mental health pressures. Long working hours, isolation, financial uncertainty, extreme weather and increasing external pressures can all take their toll.

With so many changes and challenges currently facing the industry, Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us not only to prioritise our own wellbeing, but also to check in on friends, neighbours and family members. While many farmers may be facing difficult times, support is available, and opening up through conversation or seeking professional help can be an important first step.

Prioritising sleep is equally important. Maintaining a regular sleep routine and limiting screens, caffeine and alcohol before bed may help improve sleep quality and overall wellbeing. Making time for hobbies and interests outside of work can also help relieve stress and anxiety and provide a valuable break from day-to-day pressures.

Crucially, no one should feel they have to face these challenges alone. Taking the time to talk, listen and support one another could make all the difference.

Remember, support is available through the following organisations:

The DPJ Foundation – 0800 587 4262 Tir Dewi – 0800 121 4722

Farming Community Network (FCN) – 03000 111 999 RABI

Škoda expands best-selling Karoq line-up with high-spec Design Edition

Škoda is set to broaden the appeal of its best-selling Karoq by adding a new, value packed trim level. The new Karoq Design Edition features a striking exterior design package along with a high standard specification to give buyers even better value for money.

Available to order at Škoda retailers from Wednesday 1 July, the new Design Edition sits between the existing SE Edition and SE L Edition models in the revised model range.

Priced from £31,610, the new Design Edition is just £650 more than the SE Edition, yet comes with a host of

additional equipment.

The Karoq Design Edition is distinguished by its dynamic exterior styling which features a host of elements designed to give it a strikingly dynamic look. In addition to new 18-inch Hydrus black alloy wheels, the Design Edition also features black door mirrors and radiator grille, black roof rails, extended rear spoiler and black Škoda and Karoq lettering on the tailgate.

Inside, the Design Edition features a Lodge interior design selection with black fabric upholstery,

along with all the technology features buyers have come to expect from Škoda. The new trim grade also comes with Drive mode select with ECO function as standard. In terms of other equipment, the Design Edition features an Amundsen touchscreen satellite navigation system with 8-inch screen, along with an eight-speaker sound system and a 10.25-inch Virtual cockpit driver display. Heated front seats, a two-spoke heated leather multifunction steering wheel (with paddles for DSG), rear view camera and a Keyless entry and start/stop system are also included as part

of the Design Edition’s standard specification.

Customers ordering the new Karoq Design Edition can choose from two powertrain options: a 1.0 TSI 116PS or a 1.5 TSI 150PS unit. Both are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox with the 1.5 TSI 150PS additionally available with a seven-speed DSG transmission.

Prices for the new Karoq Design Edition from £31,610 OTR for the 1.0 TSI 116PS manual variant to £34,235 OTR for the 1.5 TSI 150PS DSG variant. Order books open on 1 July 2026 with first deliveries expected end of July.

A full database of downloadable media assets for the full Škoda product range is available at www. Škodamedia. com.

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Suzuki leads as most reliable manufacturer

Suzuki is a top 10 global Automotive brand and has a long-established reputation for producing very reliable cars which has been further reinforced from the results of the latest reliability survey conducted by Warranty Solutions group (WSg).

Of the 29 manufacturers surveyed, Suzuki ranked first with the lowest warranty claim rate of just 6.29% which, according to WSG, confirms how simpler engineering and more controlled vehicle complexity can contribute to much stronger long-term reliability.

This latest result also further highlights Suzuki’s four easy to understand product pillars across its range which are Tech, Efficiency, Quality and Trust.

Suzuki includes up to 10 years’ Service Activated Warranty once the vehicle reaches the end of its manufacturer warranty period of three years / 60,000 miles and is booked in for its next scheduled service within the Suzuki Dealer network.

This warranty is offered free of charge to retail customers and stays in place until the next qualifying service. At this point, it is then simply renewed again up to a maximum vehicle age of 10 years / 100,000 miles - whichever comes first.

OMODA 7 begins UK customers handover as first deliveries commence

The first OMOdA 7 SHS-P models have now been delivered to customers across the UK, marking the nationwide arrival of the brand’s latest model – bringing together luxury, technology, efficiency and standout design on British roads, all of which OMOdA considers essential for today’s UK drivers.

Positioned between the compact OMODA 5 and the flagship OMODA 9 SHS-P, the OMODA 7 introduces a premium mid-size SUV tailored specifically for British driving. The third model to be introduced in the UK, the OMODA 7 is offered in proven powertrains from parent company Chery International, each paired with generous specification grades – Knight and Noble. Now available through the brand’s growing network of over 124 retailers nationwide, the model is priced from £29,915 OTR* for the ICE and £32,000 OTR* for the SHS-P, with deliveries of the SHS-P starting first, and ICE towards the end of Q2.

Confident in its design, technology and real-world usability, the OMODA 7 is a car shaped by OMODA’s “Art in Motion” design philosophy. With aerodynamic lines and a poised, road-ready presence, the sculpted exterior design is matched by a calm, spacious and carefully considered cabin, created to feel intuitive and comfortable from the moment occupants’ step inside.

Offered in Knight and Noble

specification grades, the OMODA 7 places a strong emphasis on comfort and usability. Eco-leather finishes, SONY audio, dual digital displays and wireless smartphone connectivity as standard contribute to an environment designed to feel modern, airy and refined, while still delivering the practicality expected of a five-seat SUV. The Noble trim takes luxury further, adding six-way electric adjustment for driver and front passenger, a 1.45-metre panoramic sunroof, and, for the first time for any UK-delivered OMODA, an airconditioning fragrance system and four-zone voice control.

Customers can also choose between a 1.6-litre TGDI petrol engine or OMODA&JAECOO’s proprietary Super Hybrid System (SHS). The plug-in hybrid- SHS-P pairs an 18.3 kWh battery with a 1.5-litre engine to deliver a WLTP range of over 700 miles, including up to 56 miles of pure electric driving, alongside fast charging capability and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for added everyday versatility. With CO2 emissions as low as 23 g/km, and capable of replenishing from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes, it delivers a rare combination of efficiency, refinement and performance.

Victor Zhang, UK Managing Director, OMODA UK, said: “The OMODA 7 was designed to be a popular model for us in the UK. Seeing the first cars now with

customers is a genuine milestone, because this is where the brand really starts to be experienced day to day on British roads. It’s a car that quietly demonstrates what OMODA stands for in terms of design, comfort and technology, and we’re very pleased to see it begin its journey with owners.”

The start of OMODA 7 customer deliveries follows a successful 2025 for OMODA in the UK. Since launching in August 2024, OMODA UK has rapidly expanded its retailer network and broadened its model line-up to meet growing demand. January also saw the arrival of OMODA’s first fullhybrid model, the OMODA 5 SHS-H, further strengthening the brand’s

electrified offering for British drivers. With additional model introductions planned before the end of the year, including the hotly anticipated OMODA 4, OMODA’s UK presence is set to continue expanding across multiple SUV segments as the brand builds on this momentum.

The OMODA 7 is now available through OMODA&JAECOO’s UK-wide dealer network, priced from £29,915 OTR* for the petrol variant and from £32,000 OTR* for the SHS. All models include a 7-year/100,000-mile warranty, an 8-year battery warranty for SHS variants, and RAC Home Start as standard for the lifetime of the warranty.**

Tudor Glen Caravan Park Pembrokeshire planning call

A CALL for a Pembrokeshire caravan site to be allowed static caravans in lieu of touring ones, which the applicant says was allowed back in 1988, has been submitted to the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Keith Stevens of Tudor Glen Caravan Park, Jameston, through agent Lambe Planning & Design Ltd, seeks a certificate of lawfulness of an existing use of the site to establish the status of a 1988 planning permission. Essentially what that means is the applicant is seeking confirmation of details of that permission as to whether it includes static or touring caravans.

A supporting statement says: “Tudor Glen Caravan Park is a long-established family owned and operated Holiday Park. The Park extends to approximately six acres and caters for families within static caravans, touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.

“The Park is exceptionally

well run and achieved the 2025 runner up award for Best Family Campsite South Wales. The Park has a range of modern purpose-built facilities including a heated swimming pool, laundrette, dedicated play area, games room and full amenity facilities.”

Covering the 1988 approval of removing two previous conditions connected to the site, granting permission for up

to 50 caravans and occupancy of March 1 to January 9, it says: “It does not stipulate that the caravans must be removed from the site during the ‘close period’ as would be the case if the consent related to touring caravans,” adding:

“It is therefore clear that the intentions of that planning application and the consent granted relates to the siting of up to 50 caravans and not specifically touring caravans.

“If that consent were to be partially restricted to touring, a touring condition would

have been imposed and / or a condition requiring that the caravans must be removed from the site during a close period – it doesn’t.”

It concludes: “Whilst the park has been operated on the basis of providing both Static Caravan and Touring Caravan Pitches, [the 1988] Planning Approval clearly gives permission for any type of caravan which complies with the Legal Definition of a Caravan.

“That permission does not restrict the type of unit to either static or touring caravans and does not restrict the layout of the holiday park it is therefore concluded that [the 1988 permission] allows for the siting of any unit which complies with the legal definition of a caravan, and does not restrict the layout or location of the units.

“The applicant therefore seeks confirmation from the LPA to that effect via this Certificate of Lawful (proposed) Use application.”

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

MamGu Welshcakes earns B Corp certification

A WELSHCAKE maker from Wales has joined a global movement of businesses recognised for high standards of social and environmental responsibility.

MamGu Welshcakes has announced that it has become a Certified B Corporation, also known as a B Corp.

The certification, verified by B Lab, recognises companies which meet standards covering social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

The assessment looks at a company’s operations across areas including governance, workers, community, the environment and customers. Businesses must also legally embed a commitment to purpose as well as profit.

MamGu Welshcakes now joins more than 10,700 B Corps globally, including more than 2,700 in the UK. Well-known certified businesses include The Guardian, Innocent Drinks, Patagonia, The Big Issue, Finisterre, Elemis and Sipsmith

Gin.

The company says it is only the 13th food and drink producer in Wales to receive B Corp certification.

Chris Turner, CEO of B Lab UK said: “We are pleased to have B Corps of all shapes and sizes as part of our community – from startups to multinationals and across many different industries.

“Business is a powerful force and B Corps demonstrate that positive impact is possible in any sector. Welcoming MamGu Welshcakes is an exciting moment for the food and drink industry.

“B Lab UK and the rest of the B Corp community are really pleased that MamGu Welshcakes is paving the way for a new way of doing things.”

Sam Swift, director of MamGu Welshcakes said: “From day one we have always strived to be a business rooted in the community and we’re over the moon to now achieve B Corp certification.

“It’s a clear and rigorous

standard that holds us accountable for how we do business; from supporting our people and communities to reducing our environmental impact.”

He added: “B Corp is not just a badge and certainly not the finish line, in fact we see this moment as a new baseline for everything we do next.

“We’re already looking at ways we can be better at everything, from who we work with to the ingredients we use and where they come from.”

B Lab is a non-profit organisation which says it is working to transform the global economy to benefit people, communities and the planet.

Milford Haven energy scheme backed despite local concerns

PLANS for a micro energy storage facility ‘battery box’ scheme in a Pembrokeshire town have been given the go-ahead, despite local objections including the town council.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, AMP Clean Energy sought permission for a micro energy storage project on land between Steynton Road and Sheffield Drive, Milford Haven.

Asupporting statement accompanying the application said the battery boxes import electricity from the local electricity network when demand for electricity is low or when there are high levels of renewable energy available, exporting it back during periods of high demand to help address grid reliability issues prompted by an increase of intermittent (wind and solar) generation.

AMP Clean Energy says it is developing up to 1,250-plus Battery Boxes in the UK over the next three years.

It says each box, which takes up roughly two car parking spaces, stores 800kWh of electricity, giving the potential to power 200 homes for four hours where there is a supply disruption.

The battery box schemes are part of a raft of applications in the county; AMP has gained approval for similar schemes on land between King Street and Meyrick Street, Pembroke Dock and land in between Castle Quarry and Haven Court, Pembroke, on a verge at the Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock, and land to the south of Withybush Road, Withybush Industrial Estate, Haverfordwest.

However, a scheme for a micro energy storage project on land at Fishguard Leisure Centre Car Park, near Ysgol Bro Gwaun was refused by the

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

council’s planning committee late last year after concerns were raised including being in “an unsafe, unsustainable and unnecessary location,” and the “nightmare scenario” of a fire as children were leaving the school, which was disputed by AMP’s agent.

For the latest Milford Haven scheme, 34 objections from members of the public were received, raising concerns

including closeness to neighbouring properties, traffic congestion and safety during the construction phase, potential fire safety risks, noise and light pollution, landscape impact and impact on property values, and claims of an active covenant on the land.

Milford Haven Town Council had initially supported the scheme but later withdrew that backing, after the chair of the town council’s planning, policy and community committee Councillor Lee Bridges met with residents “deeply concerned about this application”.

“After hearing these concerns (which have been greatly researched and extensively detailed) Milford Haven Town Council would like to officially withdraw the recommendation made on March 3.” However, an officer report for county planners recommended approval, saying the council public protection team and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service raised no objections, adding any active covenant on the land was not deemed a material planning consideration.

Caws Cenarth celebrates growing success with Tesco partnership

WEST WALES cheesemaker Caws Cenarth is celebrating a successful first few months in Tesco stores after its artisan cheeses were launched into the retailer’s grab and go range.

The award-winning family business, based in Carmarthenshire, says strong customer demand has followed the launch in selected large Tesco stores across Wales.

The range includes Thelma’s Original Caerffili PGI, Perl Wen, Cenarth Brie and Perl Las, which have proved popular with shoppers looking for high-quality Welsh produce in a convenient format.

BUSINESS gROWTH

The success has marked a significant step forward for Caws Cenarth, which has expanded its team and appointed Paul Garnish as Commercial Director to support continued growth.

He will work on strengthening retail partnerships, identifying new opportunities

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

and building on the momentum created by the Tesco launch.

Founded in West Wales, Caws Cenarth has built a reputation for producing artisan cheeses using locally sourced milk and traditional cheesemaking techniques.

The company says the Tesco partnership reflects growing appetite among customers for premium Welsh produce that combines quality, convenience and strong local provenance.

TESCO PRAISE

Tesco Wales buyer Nathan Edwards said: “We’re delighted to see Caws Cenarth go from strength to strength with their artisan cheeses in our Grab and Go range.

“Customers are increasingly looking for high-quality, locally sourced options,

and this success is a fantastic example of how Welsh suppliers like Caws Cenarth are meeting these needs.

“Caws Cenarth’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality really stands out, and we’re proud to support their continued growth.”

‘JUST THE BEgINNINg’

Caws Cenarth Managing Director Carwyn Adams said: “We’re absolutely delighted with how our cheeses have been received by Tesco customers.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see more people enjoying what we do, especially as a family business rooted in West Wales.

“We’ve always believed in making cheese the right way – with care, quality ingredients and respect for tradition – and it’s exciting to be able to share that with a wider audience.

“This is just the beginning, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum.”

The partnership forms part of Tesco’s wider commitment to supporting local suppliers and bringing regional produce to customers across the UK.

Hywel Dda health board celebrates International Nurses Day

HEALTH chiefs are marking International Nurses d ay by celebrating the vital contribution made by nurses across mid and west Wales.

Hywel Dda University Health Board said the day, held each year on May 12, is an opportunity to recognise the work nurses do for patients, families and communities.

This year’s theme is Empowered Nurses Save Lives, reflecting the role nurses play in delivering high-quality, compassionate care, often in challenging circumstances and at some of the most critical moments in people’s lives.

Nurses work across a wide range of settings, including hospitals, community services, primary care, education, research and leadership.

The health board said supporting and empowering the nursing workforce is key to enabling nurses to use their skills fully, continue to develop professionally, and lead improvements in care.

Sharon Daniel, Executive Director of Nursing, Quality and Patient Experience at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “International Nurses Day is an important opportunity

to recognise the incredible difference our nurses make every single day.

“Empowered nurses save lives, and we see this through the skill, compassion and professionalism shown across our services.

“As we review our Nursing and Midwifery Strategic Framework, Empowered to Care, this is a timely moment to reinforce our commitment to supporting the nursing

profession to grow, lead and shape services throughout their careers.

“When our staff feel valued, trusted and supported, teams are stronger and patient care is safer and more effective.”

The health board said nursing is founded on teamwork, with nurses working at the heart of multidisciplinary teams alongside medical colleagues, allied health professionals and

others to deliver joined-up, person-centred care.

It said the approach supports its wider ambition of improving health and wellbeing and providing care closer to home.

International Nurses Day is also being used as an opportunity to thank the nursing and midwifery workforce for their dedication, expertise and commitment to caring for others.

NHS Wales users share mental health support stories

TWO people who transformed their mental wellbeing with the help of NHS Wales’ online support services are encouraging others to seek help during Mental Health Awareness Week.

Kate, 39, from Cardiff, and George Ryley, 27, from Aberystwyth, both say free online self-help programmes helped them regain control during difficult periods in their lives.

The pair were supported through SilverCloud Wales, a suite of digital mental health programmes based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, managed by Powys Teaching Health Board.

The stories are being highlighted as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, which this year focuses on the theme of “Action”.

PARENTAL ANxIETy

Kate sought help after her young son began suffering febrile seizures, triggering severe anxiety that quickly escalated.

“My chest would tighten and I’d get this feeling like a wave of nausea,” she said. “I couldn’t eat, couldn’t focus.”

She described becoming consumed by fear, constantly checking on her son and worrying about possible seizure triggers.

“I was so distracted at work that I had to stay behind after hours, and at home I didn’t feel I was always present with my son in the right way,” she said.

After speaking with her GP, Kate was diagnosed with parental anxiety and

referred to SilverCloud’s “Space from Anxiety” programme.

She said the flexibility of the online course made it easier to fit around family life.

“I could do it in the evening when my son had gone to sleep, or during breaks in the day. It worked around me,” she said.

Kate says she still regularly uses mindfulness, breathing exercises and writing techniques she learned through the programme.

“I haven’t had a single anxiety attack since I started it,” she added. “I’ve not looked back.”

Meanwhile, Aberystwyth resident George Ryley turned to the service after work pressures and illness left him physically and mentally exhausted.

“I was used to being busy and active,” he said. “Then suddenly, even having a shower would sap all my energy for the day.”

George said a period of poor health linked to mould toxicity left him bedbound for several weeks and badly affected his mental wellbeing.

After contacting his GP, he was

referred for counselling and encouraged to try SilverCloud’s “Space from Stress” programme.

“I didn’t have the most positive mindset at first,” he said. “But as I worked through it, I was amazed at how effective it was.”

Each SilverCloud user is assigned a dedicated supporter who provides encouragement and advice throughout the course.

“Having such lovely feedback on my progress was really motivating,” George said.

“I’ve recommended SilverCloud to so many people who I know have been struggling with stress.”

TAKINg THE FIRST STEP

Fionnuala Clayton, project manager for NHS Wales’ Online CBT Service, said the stories showed how small actions could make a major difference.

“This Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that action doesn’t have to be dramatic or overwhelming – sometimes it’s simply about taking that first step to seek support,” she said.

“SilverCloud Wales gives people the tools to understand their thoughts, manage anxiety and stress, and build resilience in a way that fits around busy working and family lives.”

SilverCloud Wales is free to access through NHS Wales and can be used on phones, tablets or laptops.

The service is not intended as a crisis support platform or for those requiring high levels of intervention.

People can sign up at nhswales.

Why mental health support is now critical for Welsh businesses

MENTAL HEALTH support has become a key issue for businesses in Wales as employers face growing pressure to help staff manage financial strain, stress and wellbeing at work.

The issue is being highlighted during Mental Health Awareness Week, with new insight from Reed showing that support for employee wellbeing is now an important part of attracting and retaining staff.

Workers in Wales said they need an annual income of £42,000 to live comfortably, compared with an average regional salary of £36,000. That leaves a “comfort gap” of £6,000.

Reed’s latest salary guides also show that 71% of workers say pay has become more important since the cost-of-living crisis, with many employees feeling the pressure of rising everyday costs.

The strain is not only financial. Separate research shows almost one in four workers in Wales, 24%, say they have previously been formally diagnosed with a mental health condition — the highest reported proportion of any UK region.

Pay alone ‘not enough’

Becky Hole, Regional Director at Reed, said employers now needed to look beyond salary alone.

She said: “In Wales, financial pressure and mental health challenges are closely linked. Our data shows that many employees are placing greater importance on stability and support, particularly where salary growth is constrained.

“This means benefits that support work-life balance and mental wellbeing are becoming a much more important part of how valued people feel at work.

“Organisations that prioritise employee wellbeing also benefit in tangible ways. By providing stronger support for mental health, employers can

lower staff turnover and reduce the longterm costs linked to ongoing recruitment and the loss of skilled, experienced employees.”

What workers want WHEN asked what would help them manage stress, 35% of workers in Wales said they wanted more flexible working, 34% wanted better mental health training for managers, and 30% wanted clearer communication about support already available.

However, Reed said there remains a gap between what workers want and what they receive.

The most common benefits currently reported by workers in Wales are onsite parking, at 28%, flexi time, at 26%, and

hybrid working, at 23%. Nearly one in five workers, 18%, said they receive no benefits at all.

Ms Hole added: “What this shows is a disconnect between what employees say would most help them manage stress and how clearly mental health support is currently embedded and communicated.

“However, Wales stands out when it comes to flexi time, with a higher proportion of employers offering this benefit compared to other regions — a positive step given its proven role in supporting employee wellbeing and work-life balance.

“Flexible working, open conversations about mental health and managers who are properly trained all come through strongly as priorities.

“Employers have a responsibility to look after their people, and those who want to help their workforce truly destress need to ensure their benefits are visible, accessible and actively support everyday mental resilience.”

Reed said businesses that take wellbeing seriously are more likely to retain skills, stability and trust over the long term.

Starmer accused of ignoring Wales in major ‘reset’ speech

SIR KEIR Starmer has been accused of ignoring Wales in a major “reset” speech aimed at saving his premiership after Labour’s disastrous election results.

The Prime Minister used the speech on Monday (May 11) to admit that mistakes had been made and to promise a new direction for Britain.

He said Labour’s election losses had been “tough, very tough”, but insisted he would not walk away from the job and would fight any attempt to remove him as party leader.

But while the speech was billed as a major attempt to relaunch his government, Welsh opponents said it failed to address the political earthquake which has just taken place in Wales.

Welsh Labour is still reeling from last week’s Senedd election, which saw the party suffer a historic collapse after decades of dominance in Welsh politics.

Despite that, critics said Wales was not directly mentioned in the Prime Minister’s speech.

LIB dEM CRITICISM

Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster spokesperson David Chadwick MP said the omission showed how out of touch Labour had become with Welsh communities.

He said: “Keir Starmer’s speech today showed just how out of touch Labour has become with communities in Wales.

“Despite years of Labour failure in Cardiff Bay and last week’s election results, the Prime Minister did not even mention Wales, let alone offer the fresh thinking people are crying out for.

“To make matters worse, Labour has rubbed salt in the wounds of communities like Port Talbot by announcing a further nationalisation of British Steel in Scunthorpe after refusing to do the same for workers and families in South Wales.

“The Liberal Democrats will continue using our 72 MPs in Westminster to stand up for Wales and fight for the fair deal our communities deserve.”

THREE KEy PLEdgES

Starmer’s speech centred on three main pledges.

The first was a promise to rebuild Britain’s relationship with the European Union.

The Prime Minister said the UK would set a “new direction for Britain” at the next EU summit, putting the country “at the heart of Europe” on the economy, trade and defence.

He also announced plans for an “ambitious” youth experience scheme, allowing young people to work, study and live in Europe as part of a renewed relationship with the EU.

Starmer said the government would also go further on apprenticeships, technical excellence colleges and special educational needs, with a guarantee that every young person struggling to find work would be offered a job, training or work placement.

The third major pledge was on British Steel.

Starmer said legislation would be brought forward this week to give the government the power to take full ownership of British Steel, subject to a public interest test.

He said the move was needed to protect what he described as an “ultimate sovereign capability” and to support industrial renewal.

STEEL ROW REIgNITEd

The British Steel announcement is likely to be one of the most politically sensitive parts of the speech in Wales.

The UK Government took control of British Steel’s Scunthorpe steelworks from Chinese owners Jingye last year, following fears over the future of the site.

Starmer has now gone further, saying ministers will seek powers for full public ownership.

But in South Wales, the

decision has revived anger over the handling of Tata Steel in Port Talbot.

Thousands of jobs were put at risk during the transition away from blast furnace steelmaking, with unions and opposition parties repeatedly calling for stronger government intervention.

Critics say Port Talbot workers and their families were not offered the same level of protection now being proposed for Scunthorpe.

That contrast is now being used by Labour’s opponents as evidence that Wales has again been treated as an afterthought by Westminster.

LEAdERSHIP PRESSURE

The speech came as Starmer faced growing pressure from within his own party after Labour’s poor election performance.

He admitted the results had been painful and said he understood that people were frustrated with him.

Starmer said: “I know I have my doubters, and I know I need to prove them wrong, and I will.”

Asked whether he would fight a leadership contest, Starmer said he was “not going to walk away”.

He also warned that Britain was facing “dangerous opponents” and said Labour had to offer hope and optimism rather than allow the country to go down what he described as a “dark path”.

The Prime Minister argued that Labour had made mistakes but had got the “big political choices” right, pointing to the economy, public services and foreign policy.

However, early reaction from within Labour suggested the speech may not have been enough to calm unrest.

Some Labour figures were reported to have felt the speech lacked detail on the cost of living, immigration and defence, while others said it did not amount to the transformational reset some MPs had wanted.

WELSH PROBLEM REMAINS

For Wales, the political problem is particularly acute.

Labour’s dominance in Welsh politics has been shattered, with Plaid Cymru now the largest party in the Senedd and Reform UK making major gains.

The result has left Labour searching for a new direction at both Cardiff Bay and Westminster level.

Starmer’s speech was intended to show that he understands the scale of the challenge facing his government.

But for Welsh critics, the failure to directly address Wales after such a dramatic election result will only deepen concerns that Labour’s Westminster leadership has not yet grasped the scale of the change taking place here.

The row also gives the Liberal Democrats an opportunity to position themselves as a proWales voice at Westminster, particularly in rural and midWales areas where the party has been seeking to rebuild.

For Starmer, the speech was designed as a moment of renewal.

In Wales, his opponents say it has instead become another example of Labour failing to listen.

Paul Davies confirms bid to become next Senedd Llywydd

PAUL dAvIES has confirmed that he will put his name forward to become the next Llywydd of the Senedd following growing speculation after the Welsh election.

The former leader of the Welsh Conservatives and long-serving Member of the Senedd said he had decided to stand after discussions with colleagues and encouragement from others.

In a statement issued on Sunday (May 10), Davies said he believed he had the experience needed to champion the Welsh Parliament and oversee proceedings fairly.

He said: “There has been much speculation since the election about who will take on the role of the next Llywydd in the Senedd.

“I want make it clear that, after consultation with colleagues and having been urged to do so by others, I will be putting my name forward to be the next Presiding Officer.

“I have the experience to champion the Welsh Parliament and have a clear understanding of its Standing Orders and procedures.

“As the Temporary Presiding Officer in the previous Senedd,

and as a former Committee Chair and Business Manager in the Welsh Parliament, I have the necessary skills to take on this important role.”

The role of Llywydd is one of the most senior positions in the Senedd, with responsibility for chairing debates, maintaining order in the chamber and ensuring parliamentary rules are followed.

Davies, who represents Ceredigion Penfro, has been a prominent figure in Welsh politics for many years and previously served as leader of the Welsh Conservatives.

Sam Kurtz disappointment Davies’ announcement also comes against the backdrop of disappointment within Welsh Conservative circles after Sam Kurtz failed to win a seat.

Kurtz, the former Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS, had been placed second on the Conservative list in Ceredigion Penfro behind Davies.

That decision was controversial locally, with many party supporters believing Kurtz had built a stronger personal following in Pembrokeshire and was one of the party’s most visible and energetic campaigners in west Wales.

BLUE VIEW

With Paul davies MS

Pembrokeshire

Herald readers, I want to say how deeply honoured I am to have been elected to represent the people of Ceredigion Penfro. I want to sincerely thank everyone who placed their trust in me at the ballot box. I have never taken any election for granted and I fully appreciate the responsibility that comes with holding a public office.

Penfro is the opportunity to meet so many hardworking people who care deeply about where we live. Our communities are resilient, ambitious and full of pride, but too often they have been overlooked by the Senedd and their local authorities. That has to change.

His failure to return to the Senedd is likely to be seen as one of the most significant Conservative casualties of the new electoral system, particularly given his profile in rural affairs, farming, tourism and local campaigning.

There is already speculation about Kurtz’s next move, including rumours that he could seek to stand for Parliament in the future.

However, speaking to The Herald at the declaration, Kurtz was tight-lipped about his plans and even suggested he may return to journalism.

Before entering politics, Kurtz worked in local journalism, including at The Pembrokeshire Herald and the Western Telegraph.

Davies said he was saddened that Kurtz had not been returned, describing him as a hard-working colleague who had given strong service to Pembrokeshire and west Wales.

The announcement comes as parties continue discussions following the historic 2026 Senedd election, which resulted in no overall majority and a dramatically reshaped Welsh political landscape.

Of course, it was a bittersweet election result, as my friend and colleague Samuel Kurtz was not reelected with me. Sam is an outstanding ambassador for west Wales and a was formidable and respectable representative, earning respect from across the political chamber. Welsh politics is poorer without him, and I truly hope we see him back in frontline politics in the near future.

Now, throughout the Senedd election campaign, I had the pleasure or speaking to residents from towns, villages and rural communities right across the new constituency. While every conversation was different, there were clear themes that emerged time and again. People made it very clear to me that they are concerned about local health services and access to them, the cost of living, the sustainability of local businesses, the future of Welsh farming and the need for better infrastructure and public services in rural Wales. I want readers to know that I heard those concerns loud and clear, and I assure you that I will continue to raise these issues at every opportunity. I have a track record of standing up for our local services and that will continue in this Senedd.

I believe that one of the greatest privileges of representing Ceredigion

As we begin this new Senedd term, it’s important to remember that no party has a majority and so it’s going to be a very interesting few years in Cardiff Bay. The people have voted for a shakeup. There are a lot of new faces, with new ideas and time will tell how that shapes the Senedd in this term.

As I return to the Senedd, my promise is simple: I will continue to work hard, remain accessible, and listen carefully to the people I represent. I believe that good representation is not just about speaking, it’s about listening too. I want people across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion to know that their concerns matter and that I will continue to fight for the issues that are important to them. Therefore, if you have an issue that you believe needs raising at the Senedd, then please get in touch. You can email me at paul.davies-ms@senedd. wales or call my office on 01437 766425 and my team and I will do our very best to support you.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

UK Ltd wanted to bring change in the May 7th Senedd elections. However, with Labour reduced to a rump of 9, it will be Plaid Cymru that will bring about the change.

It’s early days yet, so as the dust starts to settle, I will comment in next Friday’s article.

At Westminster, the Welsh Liberal Democrats have warned that the Government’s Access to Work scheme is no longer delivering for disabled people, after leading a parliamentary debate to highlight severe delays, growing backlogs and reduced support for applicants.

Opening the debate, Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe MP David Chadwick drew on his own experience of being paralysed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, describing how it took him years to recover and rebuild his independence after being left totally paralysed. He warned that for many disabled people, the biggest barrier to work is not their condition, but whether the right support is in place to make employment possible.

The Access to Work scheme currently supports over 74,000 disabled people by providing practical assistance such as specialist equipment, support workers and workplace adaptations. It is widely regarded as good value for money, with studies suggesting it generates £1.48 for every £1 spent.

However, demand for the scheme has risen sharply, exposing serious weaknesses in how it is administered. Waiting lists have now reached around 66,000 people, with tens of thousands of payments still outstanding. Applicants are facing delays of up to 37 weeks for a decision, with some self-employed individuals waiting over a

year.

Mr Chadwick warned that these delays are having real-world consequences, with people forced to turn down job offers, struggling to remain in work, or losing their livelihoods altogether.

Small businesses are also being left in limbo, unsure whether support will arrive or what costs they may have to cover.

Concerns were also raised about how the scheme operates in practice, with reports of individuals being required to reapply from scratch even when their circumstances have not changed, alongside long reconsideration processes and difficulty contacting caseworkers.

In addition, the debate highlighted concerns that funding decisions may disproportionately impact applicants in Wales, where lower average wages risk being used to justify reduced levels of support.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to take urgent action to restore confidence in the scheme, reduce waiting times and ensure disabled people can fully participate in working life.

David Chadwick MP said:

“Access to Work should be a gateway into employment, but right now it is becoming a barrier.

People who are ready and willing to work are being let down by delays, bureaucracy and a lack of clarity.

“We should be strengthening this scheme, not allowing it to fall behind. That means urgently tackling the backlog, speeding up decisions and making sure support reflects the real cost of what people need.

“If the Government is serious about getting more disabled people into work, it must fix Access to Work and make it fit for purpose again.”

Wales enters new political era after historic Senedd election

WALES has entered a new political era after voters delivered the biggest political upheaval since devolution.

Plaid Cymru emerged as the largest party in the Senedd, Reform UK surged into second place, and Welsh Labour was reduced to its worst result since the creation of Welsh devolution in 1999.

The result ends Labour’s long dominance of Welsh politics and leaves Cardiff Bay

facing weeks of negotiations over who will form the next Welsh Government.

LABOUR

dOMINANCE ENdS

For the first time since the Senedd was created, Labour is no longer the largest party in Wales.

The party fell to just nine seats in the expanded 96-member chamber, a result which has sent shockwaves

through Welsh politics.

First Minister Eluned Morgan also lost her own seat in Ceredigion Penfro before announcing that she would stand down as Welsh Labour leader.

The scale of the defeat reflects deep public frustration over the NHS, public services, the cost of living, and the perception that Welsh Labour had run out of energy after decades in power.

Ken Skates has now been appointed interim Welsh Labour leader as the party begins what is likely to be a long and painful rebuilding process.

PLAId’S HISTORIC BREAKTHROUgH

Plaid Cymru finished as the largest party with 43 seats, a landmark result for Rhun ap Iorwerth and his party.

It is the closest Plaid has ever come to forming a government in Wales, and gives the party the clear first opportunity to try to lead the next Welsh Government.

However, Plaid fell short of the 49 seats needed for an outright majority.

That means Rhun ap Iorwerth must now decide whether to seek a formal coalition, a confidence-and-supply arrangement, or attempt to govern as a minority administration.

The party campaigned strongly on the NHS, childcare, housing, rural Wales and economic renewal. It must now show that it can move from opposition into government and turn those promises into delivery.

REFORM BECOMES MAJOR FORCE

The other major story of the election was the dramatic rise of Reform UK.

The party won 34 seats, becoming the second-largest group in the Senedd and reshaping the political map across Wales.

Reform made major gains in former Labour heartlands, particularly in areas where voters have become disillusioned with Cardiff Bay politics and traditional party loyalties. Its success means the next Senedd will be noisier, more confrontational, and far less predictable than before.

Reform will now have a large platform from which to challenge Plaid Cymru, Welsh Labour and the Conservatives on public services, immigration, the economy, and the future direction of Wales.

SMALLER PARTIES gAIN gROUNd

The Conservatives were reduced to seven seats, leaving them much diminished after years of trying to present themselves as the main alternative to Labour.

The Wales Green Party won two seats, giving the party its first real foothold in the Senedd.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats won one seat, ensuring they remain represented in Cardiff Bay.

The new electoral system, which expanded the Senedd from 60 to 96 members and introduced 16 larger constituencies electing six MSs each, helped create a far more proportional result.

It has also produced a chamber in which smaller parties and tactical negotiations will matter more than

WHAT HAPPENS NExT?

The key issue now is who can command enough support to govern.

Plaid Cymru, as the largest party, will be expected to lead the process of forming an administration.

But without a majority, every major vote will matter. Budgets, major laws, confidence votes and key policy decisions will all require careful negotiation.

A formal deal with another party may prove difficult. A minority Plaid government is possible, but it would need support from other MSs to survive.

That means the next few weeks could be decisive for the future of Wales.

A CHANgEd COUNTRy

This was more than a bad night for Labour or a breakthrough for Plaid and Reform.

It was a clear sign that Welsh politics has changed.

Old loyalties have weakened. Voters who once backed the same party for generations have shown they are prepared to move. The next Senedd will be more divided, more unpredictable, and more difficult to control.

For Wales, the message is stark. The Labour era is over. Plaid Cymru now has its greatest opportunity yet. Reform UK has arrived as a major force. And whoever forms the next Welsh Government will have to prove quickly that change means more than a different set of faces in Cardiff Bay.

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

ERS & NO t ICES

CHILDREN WITH RARE GENETIC CONDITIONS

dEAR SIR,

I would like to draw readers’ attention to a pressing issue affecting children across the UK.

Every day, despite the excellent care provided by the NHS, children can be left traumatised by hospital experiences. Clinical environments, painful procedures and isolation from friends and family can all cause immense stress, especially for younger children who may struggle to understand what is happening. Healthcare-related trauma in childhood can have lasting consequences. It may lead to missed medical appointments, delayed diagnosis and treatment, and difficulties accessing care later in life. Our research found that 10% of UK adults said their childhood experiences of healthcare had negatively affected their mental

health.

What is less widely known is that play can help prevent this trauma. Starlight provides play resources to hospitals and hospices across the UK, as well as support and high-quality training for health play specialists and healthcare professionals.

We have launched an appeal to reach even more children at the moment they need support most, because play can be the best medicine for babies, children and young people.

To find out how you can help children like nine-year-old Arlo, who has a rare genetic condition and has spent weeks in hospital, visit starlight.org.uk.

Hannah Mattock Individual giving Manager, Starlight

The recent court case involving Jenkins Ty Hen Ltd and the damage caused to a Site of Special Scientific Interest should concern everyone who cares about the future of Wales’ countryside.

Too often, environmental protection is dismissed as something only activists or politicians worry about. But the reality is much simpler than that. Protecting the environment means protecting the land, rivers, wildlife and countryside that all of us depend upon every single day.

Wales is famous for its natural beauty. Visitors travel from across the world to see our coastline, rivers, mountains and farmland. Many local businesses rely on tourism, agriculture and outdoor activities. Once rare habitats are destroyed, they can take decades to recover, and sometimes they are lost forever.

The court heard that this particular SSSI contained rare flora and fauna alongside important geological features. These protected areas are

not designated for no reason. They exist because they are special, fragile and increasingly uncommon.

What is especially disappointing is that Natural Resources Wales apparently spent years trying to work with the company involved. Advice was given, discussions took place and warnings were issued. Yet the damage continued.

Farmers have an incredibly important role in Welsh society and most work hard to care for the countryside while producing food for the nation. Farming is not the enemy of the environment. In fact, generations of Welsh farmers helped shape the landscapes we treasure today.

However, with that role comes responsibility.

Modern farming has to strike a balance between productivity and sustainability. If slurry, fertilisers and chemicals are used recklessly, they can destroy habitats, pollute rivers and damage ecosystems far beyond a single field. We have all seen the consequences in recent years, from river pollution to declining wildlife numbers.

What concerns me most is the attitude that environmental rules are somehow optional or simply “red tape.” They are there to protect the public interest and future generations.

No one is saying businesses should be punished unfairly for genuine mistakes, and it is right the defendants now say they want to restore the land and work with the authorities. But the judge was equally right to point out that repeated warnings had already been given.

Protecting the environment is not anti-farming, anti-business or anti-progress. It is about common sense stewardship. We are only temporary custodians of this land. The countryside we pass on to our children and grandchildren depends on the decisions we make today.

Once habitats are gone, they are extraordinarily difficult to bring back.

That is why these laws matter, and why cases like this should serve as a warning to everyone that protecting Wales’ natural environment must remain a priority.

gareth Thomas

Death Notices

W ENDY A RIANWEN O SBORNE

B ELO v E d daughter of g olly and Pop. g raceful, loving, kind and beautiful.

Mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend and (we suspect) celestial being. Mauny (Boo), Josie (Boo), Tom (Boo), Ky (Boo), Ed (Boo), Layla, Alfie, Thella, Myrtle, Huck, Wolf, Baer, Lake and Eira all found her to be lovely - and were loved in return.

Others who enjoyed her smile; 2pm, 26th May 2026

St Johns Church, Tenby A Quaker service

No flowers please.

Donations to Greenpeace, c/o Funeral Directors W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, The Old Rectory, The Norton, Tenby, SA70 8AB

S ALLY F RANCIS

S ALLy Francis passed away peacefully in Withybush Hospital on Saturday 25th April 2026 after a short illness.

Originally from Dumbartonshire, Sally spent her teens and most of her adult life living in Fishguard.

Sally was widow to Gareth Francis of Fishguard and is survived by her loving family; son Rhun, daughter Heledd, her grandchildren Euen and Mabli and Son-in-law Matthew.

Loving and living life to the full, Sally leaves a huge hole in the lives of those who knew her.

The funeral service will be at 1pm on Tuesday 19th May 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to Age UK or Carers

UK c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB.

Tel: 01348 873250.

C LLR . B R i A n J O hn H ALL

PASSE d away at home on Friday, 24th April 2026, aged 78. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, 22nd May at St Mary’s RC Church, Pembroke Dock at 1pm followed by interment at Llanion Cemetery.

If desired, donations gratefully received in lieu of flowers in memory of Brian for ‘Macmillan Cancer Support’ via the link below. (Cheques payable to ‘Macmillan Cancer Support’ can be sent to John Roberts & Son Funeral Directors, 51 Bush Street, Pembroke Dock)

brian-john-hall.muchloved.com

DAVID P ERKINS

dAv I d Perkins passed away peacefully in Cardiff on Saturday 25th April 2026 after a short illness.

Although David lived much of his life in Cardiff, his spiritual home was Pembrokeshire.

David was husband to the late Jane and is survived by his niece and nephew Kathryn and Jonathan, his stepson Cian, and brother and sister Edward and Mary.

A life full of music and travel, David leaves a huge hole in the lives of those who knew him.

The funeral srvice will be at 1:45pm on Monday 18th May 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only.

Donations in lieu, if desired made payable to ‘Stroke Association’ or ‘Cardiff and Vale Health Charity’ (University of

Hospital of Wales)

c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB.

R OBERT DAVIES

I T is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Robert d avies who passed away peacefully at Morriston Hospital on Sunday 26th April 2026.

Robert will have a private family cremation followed by a “Celebration of Robert’s Life” which will take place at The Ty Waterfront Hotel, Milford Haven on Saturday 30th May 2026, all are welcome.

A splash of red for his beloved Manchester United would be appreciated.

Robert’s brother, Peter would like to especially thank Laura Long and her Haverfordwest based “Share the Care” team for their dedication, help and support over the past two years.

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Merlins Bridge U14s girls celebrate league title success

yOUNg footballers from across Pembrokeshire are celebrating after Merlins Bridge U14s girls secured the league title in the West Wales Women and girls League. The team confirmed their place at the top of the table after an away victory against Carmarthen Stars, capping a memorable season for the squad.

TITLE-WINNINg SEASON

The achievement follows the club’s decision to enter the West Wales Women and Girls League at U14 level, giving the players the chance to test themselves against teams from across the region.

Coach Jan Bojanowski said the success was a proud moment for the players, families and club.

The squad is made up of girls from across Pembrokeshire, who have shown commitment throughout the season and continued to develop as a team.

gROWINg gIRLS’ FOOTBALL

Merlins Bridge AFC said the title win reflects the strength of girls’ football in Pembrokeshire and the increasing opportunities

now available for young female players.

The team’s success is also a boost for grassroots football locally, with more girls taking part and representing their clubs in competitive leagues across West Wales.

The players celebrated with trophies and the league cup after completing their titlewinning campaign.

Thousands of cyclists arrive in Tenby after 100-mile Carten challenge

THOUSANdS of cyclists rolled into Tenby today after completing one of Wales’ best-known charity cycling challenges.

The annual Carten100 ride took place on Saturday (May 9), with riders setting off from Cardiff City Hall before making the long journey west to Pembrokeshire.

The event, now in its 22nd year, is built around a simple idea: Cardiff to Tenby — 100 miles, on a bike, in a day.

Organisers stress that it is not a race, but a personal challenge designed to get people cycling, bring riders together and raise money for good causes.

This year’s ride was fully booked, with entries limited to 2,400 and an estimated field of around 2,200 cyclists taking part.

Riders left Cardiff from 7:30am, travelling through South Wales on a mix of roads and cycle paths before crossing into Pembrokeshire for the final stretch into Tenby.

The official route included support and refreshment stops at Baglan, Burry Port, Carmarthen and Tavernspite, before riders made their way through Stepaside and on towards the finish.

There was a strong welcome in Tenby as family members, friends and supporters gathered to cheer cyclists home after more than 100 miles in the saddle.

Carten100 has grown from a small ride involving just four cyclists in 2004 into a major annual event on the Welsh cycling calendar.

Since it began, the challenge has helped raise more than £1.75m for Welsh charities and good causes.

Organisers say the aim remains the same: to encourage people of all ages and abilities to get back on their bikes,

take on a demanding but achievable challenge, and support charity at the same time.

The 2026 ride covered around 107 miles, with organisers reminding participants that the event takes place on open roads and that cyclists must follow the Highway Code throughout. Riders were supported along the

route by feed stations, event volunteers, support vehicles, mechanical help and first aid cover.

For many, the arrival in Tenby marked the end of months of training and fundraising.

The sight of cyclists streaming into the town has become a familiar earlysummer scene, bringing a colourful

S4C secures exclusive Barbarians v Wales double-header

S4C will broadcast a live rugby double-header from Twickenham this summer, with Wales taking on the Barbarians in both men’s and women’s fixtures.

The matches will be shown live and exclusively on Friday, June 27, with the men’s game kicking off at 2:00pm and the women’s match following at 5:00pm.

Both fixtures will be available across S4C, S4C Clic, BBC iPlayer and S4C Chwaraeon’s YouTube channel, with Welsh and English-language commentary.

Sarra Elgan will present the coverage, with Lauren Salter reporting pitchside.

Gareth Charles will commentate on the men’s match, with analysis from Ken Owens and Elinor Snowsill. Siwan Lillicrap will also join the team for the women’s fixture, with further members of the broadcast line-up to be announced.

Tomos Grace, WRU Chief Commercial Officer said: “We’re delighted that S4C will bring coverage of Barbarians v Wales at Twickenham to supporters across the country and beyond.

“This fixture is always a celebration of rugby’s spirit and tradition, and it’s fantastic that fans will be able to enjoy it free-to-air, with comprehensive Welsh-language coverage at its heart alongside English provision, which is hugely important for the game in Wales.

“We look forward to what promises to be a memorable summer occasion for Welsh rugby.”

Sue Butler, Head of Sports at S4C, said the broadcaster was pleased to have secured exclusive rights to the event.

She said: “We are delighted to have secured the exclusive broadcast rights to this double-header, bringing Wales together with the Barbarians for a special day of summer rugby.

“These fixtures promise a great

Pembrokeshire

MEMBERS of Pembrokeshire Triathlon Club are being encouraged to take part in the club’s next Time Trial Series event.

The 20km bike time trial will take place at Herbrandston, next to the old school, on Sunday, May 17, starting at 8:15am.

The club says the event is open to members of all abilities, whether they are chasing a personal best, building confidence, or simply looking to take part in a friendly club event.

Those wishing to enter are asked to book their place through the Connect My Club app.

Parking at the start is limited, so members are being encouraged to car share where possible or allow extra time before the event.

Wales day out, and we’re pleased that S4C’s coverage will be available across all platforms.

“This agreement underlines S4C’s commitment to delivering premium live sport exclusively to audiences across Wales and the UK, in both Welsh and English, and to showcasing the very best of international rugby on a global stage.”

John Spencer, President of

Triathlon

Barbarian F.C., said: “Barbarian F.C. and Wales have an intertwined history, with supporters of both teams enjoying the spirit and values of the game.

“This summer’s double-header against Wales is a hugely exciting fixture and the announcement that the matches will be on S4C, on free-to-air TV, broadcast by a national broadcaster, with huge rugby experience, is really important.

“We want to showcase the very best of rugby and having the fixtures on S4C will allow us to reach a large audience for what will be a great day of rugby.”

Fans will also be able to attend the double-header at Twickenham, with tickets available through Ticketmaster and England Rugby.

The coverage will be produced by Whisper Cymru.

Club to hold next time trial event

t homas Carroll Pembrokeshire League table

Fixtures 16th May

Divison 1

Burton v St Ishmaels

Carew v Whitland

Cresselly v Neyland

Narberth v Lawrenny

Saundersfoot v Herbrandston

Divison

2

Hook v Fishguard

Johnston v Pembroke

Llangwm v Haverfordwest

Llanrhian v Cresselly II

Pembroke Dock v Llechryd

Divison

3

Hwest II v Burton II

Hundleton v Saundersfoot II

Kilgetty v Laugharne

Pembroke II v Lamphey

Stackpole v Carew II

Divison

4

Herbrandston II v Hook II

Lawrenny II v Crymych

Llechryd II v Narberth II

Neyland II v Haverfordwest III

St Ishmaels II v Carew III

Divison

5

Cresselly III v Pembroke Dock II

Llechryd III v Llangwm II

Pembroke III v Hundleton II

Whitland II v Llanrhian II

Divison

6

Haverfordwest IV v Neyland III

Laugharne ii v h’west-Cresselly

Whitland III v Kilgetty II

Merlins Bridge U14s girls celebrate league title success • P76