The Pembrokeshire Herald 16/01/2026

Father jailed for 35 years after baby hurled at television

A COURT has heard how a twomonth-old baby was hurled with force at a television screen by their own father, causing multiple lifethreatening injuries.

Rhidian Jamieson, 29, had been left in sole care of the infant at a property in Y Verwig, near Cardigan, on the afternoon of January 15, 2025. When the baby’s mother returned to the address a short time later, she found the child concealed beneath a duvet and fighting for life.

Sentencing Jamieson at Swansea Crown Court on Monday, Judge Paul Thomas KC said: “The mother entrusted you with the care of her child and could not, in her worst nightmares, have imagined what you would do to that baby.

“For reasons you have never explained and have never had the courage to explain, you threw the baby with great force at a television.

“It would have been totally obvious to you that the baby had potentially been fatally injured, yet you didn’t even bother to check whether the child was alive. Instead, like the coward you are, you left the baby concealed under a duvet.”

Judge Thomas went on to say that attempts by the probation service to prepare a report prior to Jamieson’s sentencing failed, following his refusal to attend an interview with a probation officer whilst on prison remand.

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“You refused to co-operate with probation, saying you weren’t going to attend the interview because you’d rather use the prison gym,” said Judge Thomas. “That was an opportunity for you to express your regret for what you did and explain why you acted the way you did.

“You will now have opportunities to take advantage of the free prison gym facilities for many years to come.”

The court was told that shortly after the attack, Jamieson contacted his gaming associates online, telling them that he had “snapped, lost it and thrown the baby at the television”.

Later that evening, Jamieson was arrested in Cardigan town centre. Whilst detained, he made unsolicited comments to police officers stating that he believed he had killed the child. He later attempted to blame another individual for the injuries, but police investigations confirmed that this person had not been present at the property at the time.

Emergency services arrived at the Y Ferwig address at around 10:15pm where they found the two-month-old baby lying beneath a duvet. The infant was rushed to West Wales General Hospital before being transferred to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff due to the severity of the

court was handed a note stating that Jamieson would not attend as he believed he had been “wrongfully charged” and had “suffered enough mentally”.

Jamieson was sentenced to 35 years in prison, with two-thirds of the term to be served in custody and the remainder on licence.

Judge Thomas also imposed a lifelong restriction preventing Jamieson from ever having unsupervised contact with children.

“This will apply long after your release from prison, which will be many years from now,” he concluded.

Speaking about the impact of the incident, the baby’s mother said: “What has happened has completely changed my life and my daughter’s life forever, as well as having a huge impact on my whole family.

“You have caused us all an unimaginable amount of pain and suffering.”

She explained that her baby had suffered ‘serious injuries’, the longterm effects of which medical experts have not yet been able to determine.

injuries.

There doctors identified a brain bleed, a fractured skull, bleeding to both eyes, extensive bruising and swelling to the face and limbs.

“These injuries are totally lifechanging,” Judge Thomas said. “They include irreversible brain damage, loss of vision and the possibility of epilepsy for the rest of the child’s life.

“The baby will never have anything like the normal life that would have been expected had you not catastrophically lost your temper that day.”

Members of the child’s family described Jamieson as “a monster”, “a pathetic man-child” and “a disgusting person” in victim impact statements read out to the court.

Jamieson pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of the child in April 2025 but later applied to vacate his plea. That application was refused by Judge Thomas, who adjourned sentencing until Monday (January 12).

The judge said he was appalled by Jamieson’s conduct since the offence.

“You haven’t shown a scintilla of remorse for the appalling, lifechanging injuries inflicted on a helpless two-month-old baby,” he said. “Instead, you have wallowed in self-pity and did not even have the strength to attend court today to hear your sentence.”

At the start of proceedings, the

“I live every day not knowing whether she will be able to walk, talk, learn properly or live an independent life,” the mother added. “The uncertainty is unbearable.

“Instead of enjoying my daughter’s first year of life, I now spend every day worrying about what the future holds. I feel robbed of the chance to just be a normal young mum.

“Instead of building a happy and safe life with my daughter, I am left to pick up the pieces of something I never imagined would happen.”

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Williams, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “This was an appalling act of violence towards a defenceless baby – his own daughter – who had been left in Jamieson’s care.

“We still do not know what made him act in this way – what made him ‘snap’, to use his own word – but even if he had revealed the catalyst for this vile behaviour, it would in no way make it excusable.

“The baby’s family has been thrown into turmoil since the despicable attack on January 15, spending a significant amount of time in hospital, and suffering months of anxiety as they waited to find out what the longlasting impact of her injuries will be.

“I would like to commend them for their strength and cooperation through the police investigation, as well as the numerous officers and staff who have worked tirelessly to bring Jamieson to justice.”

Jailed after samurai sword brandished in street brawl

MICHEL VALMONT has been jailed for 15 months after brandishing a samurai sword during a violent disturbance in Pembroke Dock which left members of the public fearing for their safety.

Swansea Crown Court heard the incident unfolded on Pembroke Street on Saturday (June 15, 2024), prompting multiple calls to police from alarmed witnesses.

Prosecutor Craig Jones told the court officers were contacted as the street fight developed, with members of the public reporting several men involved in violence in the street.

The court heard that while two men were already engaged in a brawl, Valmont emerged from a nearby property dressed in black and carrying the sword. He was then seen chasing the men while wielding the weapon, heightening concern about what he intended to do.

Police arrived to find Stephen Charge and Trevor Herridge still fighting. They were separated and arrested at the scene.

A search of the area later uncovered a samurai sword and a black hooded top in a nearby garden. Valmont was subsequently identified and arrested.

Valmont, 48, of Water Street, Pembroke Dock, and Charge, 52, of Pembroke Street, Pembroke Dock,

had both previously pleaded guilty to affray. Valmont also admitted possession of an offensive weapon.

The court heard Valmont has 74 previous convictions for 203 offences, including violence, weapons offences, dishonesty and public disorder. Charge’s record includes assault occasioning actual bodily harm, battery, criminal damage and dishonesty offences.

Defending Valmont, Jon Tarrant said his client had not been involved at the outset but made what he described as a “ridiculous and stupid” decision to intervene after realising a friend was caught up in the incident.

He told the court Valmont accepted a prison sentence was inevitable, adding that “walking around the centre of Pembroke Dock with a samurai sword is not going to result in any other outcome”.

The court was told Valmont had used heroin for around 30 years but was now testing clean.

Emily Bennett, representing Charge, said her client accepted his actions went beyond lawful self-defence and was extremely remorseful.

She told the court Charge began

using drugs at 13 and later became addicted to heroin, but was now abstinent. He has four children, whom he sees regularly.

Passing sentence, Judge Paul Thomas KC described the incident as an “ugly brawl” and said the scenes were “more reminiscent of the Wild West of America in the 19th Century than West Wales in the 21st”.

While the cause of the disturbance was unclear, the judge said Valmont had escalated matters by introducing a “fearsome” weapon.

After receiving a one-quarter reduction for his guilty plea, Valmont was sentenced to 15 months in prison and will serve up to half the term in custody before being released on licence.

Charge received an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, with a 20% reduction for his guilty plea. He was ordered to complete a rehabilitation requirement and fined £400 for breaching a suspended sentence.

The judge told him he had avoided immediate custody “by the skin of your teeth” and warned he was now “drinking in the last chance saloon”.

The court heard Herridge, 47, who had been charged with affray in connection with the incident, has since died.

Man tells jury he feared being run over outside pub

Ben Jenkins,

26,

denies GBH after woman suffered facial fractures during Guy Fawkes Night incident outside Nos Da in 2023

A MILFORD HAVEN man accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm on a woman outside a town centre bar has told a Crown Court jury he acted in self-defence because he feared he was about to be run over.

Ben Jenkins, 26, of St Lawrence Avenue, Hakin, is on trial at Swansea Crown Court charged with causing grievous bodily harm to a female motorist outside the Nos Da Bar, Victoria Road, Milford Haven, on Guy Fawkes Night, November 5, 2023.

The jury retired to consider its verdict on Wednesday (Jan 14) after hearing evidence from Jenkins and other witnesses. A verdict is expected later this week.

ON THE STAND

Giving evidence, Jenkins told the court he had been standing in the road outside Nos Da at about 3:00am, talking to his fiancée, Bronwyn Jenkins. He said a silver car pulled up behind his fiancée’s vehicle and someone shouted words to the effect of: “Get out of the fxxxing way or I’ll fxxxing run you over.”

“I was terrified,” Jenkins told the jury. “I thought my life was in danger.”

He said he went straight home after the incident. The court heard Jenkins provided a prepared statement to police but answered “no comment” in interview.

Under cross-examination, the jury was told Jenkins had consumed six or seven pints of cider and three or four rum and cokes. Jenkins maintained he was not intoxicated.

Prosecutors also questioned why the alleged threat to run him over was not included in his prepared statement. CCTV footage was shown to the jury

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which the prosecution said appeared to show Jenkins being held back by a friend to prevent him approaching the car. Jenkins told the court his friend was not holding him back.

Further CCTV was said to show Jenkins being dragged away during the incident. Jenkins told the court this did not reflect what happened and that he was moving away in any event.

Jenkins said he did not know the driver was a woman at the time. He told the jury: “I swung four times but only one punch connected.”

“SHAkEN

AND TEARFUL”

Bronwyn Jenkins told the court that when she picked her partner up later, he was “extremely shaken and tearful,” and said he had been in fear for his life. She told the court she felt threatened after a car pulled up behind her and there was aggressive shouting. Bronwyn Jenkins said she drove down to a roundabout to get out of the way and did not see the incident itself.

VICTIM’S ACCOUNT

The complainant told the court she and her husband had been driving home after a night out at the Manchester Club when they had to stop abruptly behind Bronwyn Jenkins’ car, which she said was parked in the middle of the road.

She told the court she asked for the car to be moved and did not want to overtake because of the position of the vehicle. She said two men near the car made inappropriate gestures towards

her, prompting her husband to tell her to pull over.

Her husband told the court he had been in the Manchester Club earlier and was already upset because his own car had been written off while it was stationary. He said he had called police but no officer attended, leaving him irate.

He told the jury he saw the men making gestures and heard shouting, and told his wife: “What’s their fxxxing problem? Pull the fxxxing car over.”

He also alleged he saw Jenkins punch his wife four times and heard him say: “You fxxxing deserved that, bxxxxh.”

PROSECUTION AND DEFENCE

Prosecuting barrister Georgia Donahue told the court Mrs Bernard

suffered two facial fractures and a perforated sinus, along with bruising and bleeding.

She said the victim was not aiming to run Jenkins over, and told the jury the Crown’s case was that the violence was “completely disproportionate” and amounted to retaliation rather than self-defence. The prosecution suggested it was Mr Bernard who was the aggressor.

The defence barrister told the jury that he accepted the vehicle moved in the direction of Jenkins, but said it was for the prosecution to prove Jenkins was not acting in self-defence.

He also referred to Jenkins’ character references, and told the jury Jenkins did not realise a woman was in the driver’s seat.

Jenkins remains on unconditional bail while the jury deliberates.

Man, 65, convicted of sexual assault on teenage girl

A MAN in his sixties has been convicted of sexually assaulting a teenage girl following a trial at Swansea Crown Court.

Huw Bridges, 65, of Haven Drive, Hakin, denied two counts of sexual assault but was found guilty by a jury after around two-and-a-half hours of deliberations.

The court heard that one incident took place on June 2, 2024, when the complainant, who was aged 16 at the time, was taken by Bridges on his motorbike to a secluded area near Carew Castle.

Prosecutor Hannah George told the jury that the pair went for a walk, during which Bridges kissed the teenager despite her trying to move away and telling him that it made her feel uncomfortable. He then went on to touch her breasts and vagina over her clothing.

The jury was told the teenager

reported the incident to her parents almost immediately after returning home. It was then that she also disclosed an earlier allegation, dating from between October 2020 and October 2021, in which Bridges was accused of touching her vagina over her clothing on another occasion.

“The prosecution’s case is that the defendant had a sexual interest in teenage girls,” Ms George said.

Bridges was arrested on June 14, 2024, and later interviewed by police. In a prepared statement, he denied sexually assaulting the complainant.

He accepted that there had been physical contact but claimed he had only put his arm around the teenager and “pecked her on the cheek” in an attempt to comfort her, insisting the gesture was not sexual in nature.

After the jury returned guilty verdicts on both counts, Judge Geraint Walters

adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. Bridges was re-admitted to bail and is now required to register as a sex offender. He is due to return to court for sentencing on Thursday, February 6.

Dramatic start to Neyland code hearing as town clerk gives evidence

Ombudsman-led proceedings heard at Haverfordwest County Court

A HEARING to determine whether a Neyland town councillor breached the code of conduct opened in dramatic fashion at Haverfordwest County Court on Thursday (Jan 15), with the town clerk called as the first witness.

The special proceedings, which began at 10:00am, are understood to relate to an Ombudsman investigation into complaints made about Cllr David Devauden, including complaints from Mayor Peter Hay and the clerk herself.

The courtroom was packed with members of the public and councillors from Neyland, with the judge sitting alongside two magistrates.

FORMER COUNCILLOR SOUGHT ANONyMITy

At the outset, the judge dealt with preliminary matters, including an email from former councillor asking that his name not be mentioned during the proceedings.

The court heard that the councillor had resigned from the council and cited stress and mental health pressures. However, the judge said he

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had been a serving councillor during the relevant period and therefore a public figure in that context. The judge noted that no Article 8 application had been received and said the email did not amount to a request to keep his name out of the press. However, The Herald, has decided to do so.

DISPUTE OVER “UNDISPUTED FACTS” bUNDLE

Cllr Devauden, who was representing himself, raised a preliminary point over the wording of what was described as an agreed bundle of “undisputed facts,” arguing some entries were inaccurate and potentially misleading.

He told the court that the bundle suggested he had accused the clerk of “committing illegal acts against the council,” but said his position was that he had alleged tampering with a government document, which he described as fraud.

Cllr Devauden asked when they

had first met. The clerk replied: “It was when you joined the council.”

“But that’s a lie isn’t it,” Cllr Devauden told the court, claiming he had met her in 2008 when she worked at the post office and that he had seen her regularly.

The clerk disputed this and said she did not start working at the post office until 2015, adding that she served a large number of customers and did not remember him from that time.

The judge asked Cllr Devauden whether he wished to challenge any disputed evidence, noting it would be his opportunity to do so.

MINUTES AND RECORDINGS

The hearing then moved to issues around council minutes and access to meeting recordings.

Cllr Devauden told the court he had asked the clerk for minutes but said they were not provided. The clerk replied that he had asked for “nine years of minutes,” and that this was not something that could be done immediately while she was busy.

Cllr Devauden disputed the

timeframe and argued that minutes should be provided “on demand,” referring to what he said was the position under the Local Government Act.

The clerk told the court that while minutes had to be provided, it was “within a reasonable time,” rather than instantly.

The clerk was also questioned about why meeting recordings requested by Cllr Devauden had not been provided. She told the court she was concerned about protecting the council and said she believed he had been leaking information to the press.

She said press coverage of the council had “always been negative,” and claimed it was Cllr Devauden who was leaking information to newspapers.

Cllr Devauden denied leaking information and told the court that on the occasions he had spoken to the press, his name had been included and nothing had been “secret.”

ALLEGATION OF INTIMIDATION

The court heard an allegation that Cllr Devauden had shouted at the

clerk when she refused to provide minutes.

Cllr Devauden denied shouting, telling the court it was “your word against mine,” and said he had walked out thinking the situation was “toxic.”

He also said the clerk had told him he could obtain minutes from the county records office, but claimed that when he attended he found nothing had been filed since 2000.

The clerk told the court she had believed they had been filed, describing it as a mistake.

The clerk also alleged that after requesting minutes, Cllr Devauden remained in the office and threatened to report her to the police, standing in the doorway and making her feel she could not leave.

Cllr Devauden denied threatening her with the police. The clerk told the court the matter was “in the emails.”

When challenged, she told the court: “What is written in my statement is true according to my absolute belief.”

Mayor called

Cllr Devauden told the court he had carried out the role for “ten or 15 years,” while the mayor said he believed it had been done once before.

The judge questioned the relevance of the evidence as it was being explored, asking Cllr Devauden

where it was leading. Cllr Devauden said he wished to show the mayor was a “pathological liar.”

Cllr Devauden referred to an allegation that the mayor had told councillors they had to choose between him or “the band” as the reason he was overlooked.

The mayor told the court he did not mean the Milford Haven Town Band and said he did not know which organisation had complained, suggesting it could have been “the Cubs, the Brownies or the Scouts.”

He said: “I do not engage in tittletattle. I just knew a complaint had been made.”

With no further questions considered relevant by the court at that stage, the judge directed that the mayor could step down from the witness box and take a seat. Proceedings then adjourned briefly.

WITNESS STATEMENT AND ‘SARAH’S LAW’ REFERENCES RAISED

After the break, the hearing moved to evidence relating to requests for council documents and allegations surrounding access to information.

During the morning session, the court heard reference to a witness statement dated Friday, April 19, 2024, which included mention of

‘Sarah’s Law’. In questioning, one witness told the court she had not been well at the relevant time.

Cllr Devauden challenged parts of the evidence, including uncertainty over dates, and told the court that without a clear date he could not properly respond, asking how he could “admit or argue” evidence where timings were disputed.

There were also references in court to whether Cllr Devauden had asked for information about individuals,

which he disputed, and further discussion about requests for historic minutes and access to recordings, including what could reasonably be provided and when.

The hearing also heard exchanges about whether individuals felt intimidated during interactions at the council office, which Cllr Devauden denied.

Kurtis Brook: Family calls for more Teifi river safety measures

FAMILy and friends of a Cardigan man missing in the River Teifi have called for more lifesaving equipment to be installed along the riverbank — and for greater investment in mental health support across west Wales.

Kurtis Brook, 30, is believed to have entered the fast-flowing Teifi in Cardigan in the early hours of Sunday (Jan 4). His family say police were called following what they describe as an apparent mental health crisis, and that officers at the scene witnessed him go under the water and not resurface.

A major multi-agency search was launched, involving Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Cardigan RNLI and HM Coastguard. Specialist resources were also deployed, including drones, search dogs and the force’s marine unit, while local volunteers joined organised land searches in and around the town.

Kurtis is well known locally, having grown up in Cardigan. He has been involved with Cardigan Amateur Boxing Club and, more recently, Maesglas Football Club, where he was described by those close to the team as a respected and much-loved figure.

On Monday (Jan 12), Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the formal river search had been concluded after more than a week, saying all lines of enquiry had been exhausted. Officers said they

would act on any new information that could help locate Kurtis, and asked anyone who can assist to contact police quoting reference 52 of Sunday (Jan 4).

In a statement, the family said

they hoped lessons could be learned from what has happened — both in terms of crisis intervention and public safety. They urged the installation of life rings and other safety measures along dangerous stretches of the Teifi, and called for greater resources to be

directed towards community mental health teams in west Wales.

They also thanked everyone who has helped with the search and offered support, as efforts continue to bring Kurtis home.

Milford Haven man denies sexual assault charge

A MILFORD HAVEN man has appeared before magistrates charged with sexually assaulting a woman at a property in Pembrokeshire.

David Fletcher, 45, of Chestnut Way, Mount Estate, Milford Haven, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

He is accused of intentionally touching a woman in a sexual manner at Silverdale Lodge, Johnston. The court heard the allegation involved the woman being given alcohol while Fletcher made flirtatious comments.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas told magistrates the woman was sitting on Fletcher’s lap and that he kissed her, but she refused to kiss him back.

“He put his hands in her trousers and she pushed him away, but then he touched her over her clothing, on her vagina and her chest,” she said. “Once again, the woman pushed him away.”

Fletcher denied the sexual assault. He elected to be tried in the magistrates’ court and was released on conditional bail pending a trial on February 25.

The bail conditions are that he must not contact the complainant or any prosecution witnesses directly or indirectly, must not enter Silverdale Lodge, Johnston, and must not post anything on social media that could interfere with the trial.

Mechanic banned after drink-drive stop on A487

A PEMbROkESHIRE mechanic has been banned from the roads after making what his solicitor described as “the biggest mistake of his life”.

Joe Dunning, 36, drove from Haverfordwest to Broad Haven after drinking alcohol in the town centre on Friday, December 20, Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard.

The court was told Dunning had been unable to find a taxi and decided to drive home.

As he travelled along St David’s Road on the A487 he was followed by police officers, who stopped the Vauxhall Vivaro after seeing it deviate slightly from its lane.

When spoken to by officers, Dunning admitted having two alcoholic drinks around half an hour before getting behind the wheel. A breath test later carried out at the police station showed 48 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35. Dunning pleaded guilty to drink driving.

“This was the biggest mistake he’s ever made in his life,” his solicitor, Tom Lloyd, told magistrates.

“He was out in town but had information to suggest there was someone around who he didn’t want to see, so he decided to remove himself from the area. He failed to get a taxi so he made the decision to drive back from Haverfordwest to Broad Haven.”

Mr Lloyd said a number of character references had been provided to the court, including one from Dunning’s employer describing him as “an invaluable member of the team”.

“The defendant is a reliable, dependable, and hard-working father, and as a result of this mistake, his actions are going to have repercussions on a lot of people,” he added.

Magistrates disqualified Dunning from driving for 12 months. He was fined £500 and ordered to pay a £200 surcharge and £85 costs.

Dock woman sentenced after assault on neighbour during ‘psychotic episode’

A PEMbROkE DOCk woman has been sentenced after assaulting her neighbour with a metal socket while experiencing what the court was told was a ‘psychotic episode’.

Jodie Roberts, 31, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week after pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Patricia Williams.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas said the incident happened at a block of

flats in Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, on June 13, 2025.

Roberts was seen running through the communal area brandishing a metal socket before approaching Ms Williams, who lives in the same building.

“She swung it into the complainant’s face and kicked her in the stomach,” Ms Thomas told magistrates.

“As a result, the victim sustained bruising and swelling to her left eye and face, as well as cuts and grazes.”

The court heard the assault was brought to an end when the defendant’s mother stepped between the two women.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Ms Williams said the incident had left her frightened in her own home.

“The incident has made me feel extremely anxious and nervous, particularly whenever I leave home,” she said.

“I’m scared to go to my car which is at the back as I know [Jodie Roberts] smokes out of her window. I now feel safe whenever I’m at work but start feeling scared again every time I go home.”

Roberts was represented by solicitor Jess Hill, who said her client had not been “in a normal state of reality” at the time.

“She thought she was being watched, she thought people were after her and she was under threat from the people

around her, including her neighbour,” she told the court.

Ms Hill said Roberts had been working hard to stabilise her mental health and was engaging with support.

“She’s fought very hard for herself, and has sought counselling off her own bat and is engaging with her GP,” she said. “She now feels positive and hopeful for her future and wants to maintain what she’s worked so hard to achieve.”

Magistrates imposed a 12-month community order with 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Roberts was also ordered to pay £100 compensation to Patricia Williams, fined £80, and told to pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.

A two-year restraining order was imposed, banning Roberts from contacting Patricia Williams, entering the top floor of the Bush Street flats, or making any reference to her on any electronic device or on social media.

Judge blasts ‘hearsay’ evidence in Niall Taylor driving appeal case

A CROWN Court judge has criticised magistrates for relying on “hearsay” material to convict Milford Haven pensioner Niall Taylor, saying he is entitled to appeal and entitled to a fair hearing.

Taylor, 76, of Haven Drive, Hakin, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday (Jan 13) for a mention hearing in his appeal against conviction.

The court was told Taylor had previously been convicted at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court of driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and using a motor vehicle without insurance.

Taylor had initially pleaded not guilty, but changed his plea part way through a trial. Questions were later raised over whether that guilty plea was equivocal, and the case was subsequently reopened under section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980.

A full rehearing followed, with Taylor entering not guilty pleas. He was found guilty after a trial of the facts and sentenced on Wednesday (Dec 3).

However, at the Crown Court hearing this week, HHJ Geraint

Court Reporter

Walters voiced serious concerns about the material relied upon to secure the conviction.

The judge was told the magistrates had convicted Taylor after relying on email evidence without a formal witness statement from its author.

Judge Walters said that without a statement, the evidence amounted to “hearsay”, and questioned whether the magistrates had properly applied the law.

He asked: “Do the magistrates know the law? Was this a lay bench?”

Judge Walters also criticised the prosecution’s approach to the appeal, suggesting it was not sufficiently prepared.

He said: “I am triageing all appeals to this court and I want to see this appeal apple pie ready when it comes before me in three weeks time. We won’t hear the case then but we will look at progress.”

The judge questioned the prosecution’s handling of the appeal, asking: “Where is the obligation on the Crown to fairly assist a

Convicted sex offender back in court after order breach

A CONVICTED sex offender has been brought back before the courts after breaching a sexual harm prevention order for the second time.

John Walters, 61, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday after failing to notify police that new software had been installed on an electronic device.

The court heard that when officers visited Walters, of Townmoor, Narberth, they discovered the account had been deleted.

A sexual harm prevention order was imposed on Walters in 2022 after he was convicted of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child.

The order prevented him from holding any social media account unless it had been approved by Dyfed-Powys Police. It also banned him from deleting or hiding any internet history.

In December 2025, police were alerted to Walters using the Telegram messaging app between December 5 and 7, despite it not being authorised.

“This was a deliberate breach,” said Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas.

Walters pleaded guilty to the breach. Magistrates adjourned sentencing to allow an all-options probation report to be prepared.

He was released on unconditional bail.

person appealing and representing themselves?”

During the hearing, Judge Walters warned that if the case was not properly prepared and progressed, it could become drawn into further litigation potentially even reaching the High Court and that this could result in it being sent back down to the magistrates’ court again.

matter will return to

Crown Court in around three weeks for a progress hearing. The appeal itself will not be heard at that stage, but the judge said he expects the case to be ready for effective case management.

The Pembrokeshire Herald understands the appeal will focus on the insurance conviction.

Drug-driver banned after cannabis found in system

A FATHER-of-four has been banned from the roads after being caught driving almost four times over the legal drug-drive limi

Steven O’Donnell, 23, of The Caravan, Roselea, Llanelli, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week where he pleaded guilty to drug-driving.

The court heard O’Donnell was stopped by police on October 19 as he drove a Renault Kangoo along Holyland Road, Pembroke.

Officers reported smelling cannabis coming from the vehicle and carried out a roadside drugs wipe, which proved

positive. A blood test later taken at the police station showed O’Donnell had 9.1 microgrammes of Delta-9tetrahydrocannabinol in his blood. The prescribed legal limit is 2.

His solicitor, Liam Francis, said the stop had been routine.

“This was a routine stop test, he’d been using cannabis at the time and was somewhat naive regarding how long it stays in the system,” he told magistrates.

O’Donnell was disqualified from driving for 14 months. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 surcharge.

Man admits harassment, assault and sharing intimate image

A MAN with no fixed address has admitted a series of offences including harassment, assault, and sharing an intimate image without consent.

Brandon Pugh, aged 26, appeared

before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jan 12) where he pleaded guilty to three separate offences committed in Pembrokeshire last autumn.

The court heard that on October 30, 2025, Pugh carried out harassment without violence, contrary to section 2 of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

He also admitted assault by beating, an offence under section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988, committed on November 6, 2025.

In addition, Pugh pleaded guilty to sharing a photograph or film of a person in an intimate state without their consent, an offence under section 33 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015, also committed on November 6, 2025.

All three guilty pleas were entered on December 23, 2025, and were taken into account by the court when sentence was passed.

As part of the outcome, Pugh was ordered to pay £200 in compensation. He was also ordered to pay costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.

Fined for harassment offence

A PEMbROkE DOCk man has been fined after admitting a harassment offence.

Ryan Winterford, aged 33, of Cuckoo Wood, Pembroke Dock, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jan 12) where he pleaded guilty to a single charge of harassment without violence.

The offence, contrary to section 2 of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, was committed on December 25, 2025. Winterford entered his guilty plea at the first hearing, and the conviction was formally recorded by the court on Monday. Magistrates imposed a fine of £153 and ordered Winterford to pay prosecution costs to the Crown Prosecution Service.

On-duty paramedic racially abused at Hospital

A SERVING paramedic at Withybush Hospital was subjected to racist abuse after being told to “f*** off” by a patient he was attempting to treat, a court has heard.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court was told the paramedic attended to Christian Teeley, 22, on June 15, 2025, after the defendant was brought to Withybush General Hospital by ambulance.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas said the abuse began as the paramedic reached the ambulance.

“He was told by the defendant to f*** off,” she said. “The defendant then continued calling him a f****** b******, and began spitting at the floor, with the spit landing a few inches away from the paramedic.”

The court heard the comments then became racist.

“He called him a ‘wog’, which was taken as a racial slur,” Ms Thomas told magistrates.

The prosecutor said Teeley has eight previous convictions, including a similar racially aggravated matter in 2021.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, the paramedic described the lasting impact of the incident.

“I feel that being spat at is far worse than being punched,” he said.

“He was targeting me for no reason, and this incident has had a great impact on me. His actions have taken away from being able to help other members of the public.”

Teeley, of Cherry Tree Close, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress.

He was represented by solicitor Alaw Harries, who told the court there had been no physical contact during the incident.

“He recognises his actions were reckless and entirely inappropriate, and he wants to apologise for his behaviour,” she said.

Ms Harries said Teeley was still wearing a neck brace at the time after suffering a brain injury in a road traffic accident and could not remember much of what happened.

“But he doesn’t want to use that as an excuse,” she said. “He’s ashamed about his behaviour, as he didn’t even know what the word ‘wog’ meant.”

Man sent to Crown Court over alleged car assault

A HAVERFORDWEST man is to stand trial at Swansea Crown Court accused of driving his Mercedes into a woman during an alleged altercation, causing her actual bodily harm.

Barrie Knight, 59, of Dennant House, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and dangerous driving.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas told the court the alleged incident took place at Spring Gardens, Barn Street, Haverfordwest, on July 6.

“The victim had gone out of her home address and spoke to the defendant regarding an on-going road dispute,” she said.

“The defendant then gave her the middle finger, called her a c*** and drove his vehicle towards her, hitting her with the bonnet.”

The Crown alleges the woman sustained tyre-mark injuries to the front of her feet, along with swelling, bruising and grazing to her elbows and to the skin around her ankles.

Knight denied the allegations.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction following an application by the Crown, meaning the case will now be dealt with at Swansea Crown Court.

Proceedings are due to commence on February 13. Knight was released on unconditional bail.

Magistrates sentenced Teeley to an 18-month community order with 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and an alcohol abstinence tag for 120 days. He was also fined £60 and ordered to pay £150 compensation to the paramedic, £85 prosecution costs and a £114 surcharge.

Fishguard North East by-election candidates confirmed

CANDIDATES who will contest the Fishguard North East by-election for a seat on Pembrokeshire County Council have been confirmed.

Nominations have now closed and the official Statement of Persons Nominated has been published. The candidates are:

• Caleb Churchill, Liberal Democrats

• Paul Stephen Howe, Labour

• Peter John, Reform

• Brian Murphy, Conservative

• Billy Shaw, Plaid Cymru

• Teresa Tannahill, Independent

• Adrian Tyrrell, Independent

The by-election will take place on Tuesday (Feb 10).

Voters have until 11:59pm on Friday (Jan 23) to register. Applications for a postal vote, or changes to existing postal vote arrangements, must be received by 5:00pm on Monday (Jan 26). Proxy vote applications must be received by 5:00pm on Monday (Feb 2).

Poll cards will be sent to electors

ahead of polling day.

The council has confirmed that photographic ID will not be required for this election. Registered 16 and

Man accused of GBH, threats to kill and weapons offence remanded on bail

A MAN accused of a series of serious violent and public order offences has been remanded on conditional bail by magistrates.

Jamie Clews, aged 39, of Spring Gardens, Hubberston, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Jan 12) in connection with multiple alleged offences spanning 2024 and 2025.

The court heard that Clews is charged with threatening a person with an offensive weapon or bladed article on January 1, 2024.

He also faces an allegation of wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent, contrary to section 20 of the Offences Against the Person Act, said to have been committed on June 7, 2024.

Further charges include making

threats to kill on June 1, 2024, and criminal damage to property valued under £5,000, also alleged to have occurred on January 1, 2024.

In addition, Clews is accused of assault occasioning actual bodily harm on December 21, 2025.

The court was also told that on January 7, 2026, Clews was arrested by a police officer for breaking, or being likely to break, bail conditions, an issue which was addressed during the hearing.

Magistrates dealt with the case as an ongoing matter and remanded Clews on conditional bail. The specific conditions were not outlined in open court.

The case was adjourned for a further hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on a date yet to be fixed.

17-year-olds and foreign nationals who are eligible to vote are also entitled to take part.

The full Statement of Persons

Nominated, including complete party descriptions, can be viewed on Pembrokeshire County Council’s website.

Pembrokeshire politicians urge Welsh Government not to overlook local ports

PEMbROkESHIRE

Senedd

Members Paul Davies MS and Samuel kurtz MS have accused the Welsh Government of overlooking the county’s ports after a ministerial statement on the Irish Sea Taskforce failed to mention either Pembroke Dock or Fishguard.

The Irish Sea Taskforce was set up following the temporary closure of Holyhead Port in late 2024 after damage to its berths. The aim was to improve resilience across Welsh and Irish Sea routes, bringing together the Welsh and Irish governments, other UK administrations, local authorities and port, ferry and logistics operators.

But Pembrokeshire’s two MSs said the Transport Secretary’s written statement referenced Holyhead directly while making no specific mention of Fishguard Harbour or Pembroke Dock, despite their role as key ferry terminals and their importance to the regional economy.

During the Holyhead disruption, operators and passengers were forced to seek alternatives, placing additional focus on other Irish Sea routes. The politicians argued that Pembrokeshire’s ports should be recognised in Welsh Government plans for future contingencies, investment and long term connectivity.

The Welsh Government statement did acknowledge the need to look at further improvements to the A40 and A477 trunk roads through Pembrokeshire as part of wider resilience planning, including how disruption at ports is managed and how welfare needs for stranded drivers are met.

Commenting, Paul Davies MS said: “Pembrokeshire plays a strategically vital role in strengthening the long standing relationship between Wales and Ireland and so it’s disappointing that our local ports were not acknowledged in the Welsh Government’s latest statement

on the Irish Sea Taskforce. These ports are critical to our regional economy, and they form an essential part of the wider UK Ireland connectivity network.

“Moving forward, I look forward to hearing more about how the Welsh Government will be improving the A40 to better support trade links between the two countries. I’ve long campaigned for the A40 to be dualled to Fishguard and I hope the Welsh Government will seriously consider this proposal, as a way of further strengthening the transport network in the region.”

Samuel Kurtz MS added: “Paul and I are deeply concerned that this Taskforce has not been given the same level of attention to the needs of the ports at Pembroke Dock and Fishguard as it has to Holyhead. These ports are central to the Pembrokeshire economy, they came to the rescue when Holyhead was forced to close, and their role and futures must not be overlooked, and I’ve raised this repeatedly on the floor of the Senedd.

“Sadly, yet again it seems that Pembrokeshire and all it can offer, is a blind spot for Labour Ministers in Cardiff Bay.”

The Welsh Government said the Taskforce work will feed into a wider

Man wanted after probation breach

A PEMbROkE DOCk man is wanted by police after Haverfordwest magistrates issued a warrant for his arrest over an alleged breach of postsentence supervision.

Joshua Spicer, 39, of Flat 5, Main Street, Pembroke Dock, was due to appear at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jan 14) but did not attend.

The court heard the National Probation Service had brought breach proceedings alleging Spicer failed without reasonable

excuse to comply with supervision requirements imposed following his release from prison.

It is alleged he failed to attend a planned office appointment on Thursday (Jan 2) and again on Friday (Jan 9), contrary to section 256AC of the Criminal Justice Act 2003.

Magistrates issued a warrant for Spicer’s arrest without bail.

The warrant was allocated to police for execution.

ports and maritime, freight and logistics plan, with further work also expected on contingency arrangements during disruption, including stacking and driver welfare measures. Ministers have also indicated they want closer ongoing engagement with the sector through a follow on council focused on logistics and freight.

The Herald has asked the Welsh Government whether it accepts Pembrokeshire’s ports should have been referenced directly in the Taskforce statement and what, if any, specific work is planned to support Fishguard Harbour and Pembroke Dock alongside road improvements on the A40 and A477.

Narberth driver nearly three times over limit

A MOTORIST spotted driving through Narberth town centre at night with no lights on his vehicle was found to be almost three times over the drinkdrive limit, magistrates heard.

Nathan Lloyd, 33, of Martletwy, Narberth, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas said Lloyd was observed by police officers driving a Nissan X-Trail through Spring Gardens on the night of Friday, December 20.

“It was being driven without lights, so naturally was stopped by the officers who were concerned it was going to cause an accident,” she told the court.

“The vehicle had also been seen hitting a kerb.”

When officers spoke to Lloyd, the court heard he had glazed eyes and was unsteady on his feet.

Breath tests later showed he had 97 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Lloyd pleaded guilty to drink driving. His solicitor, Liam Francis, told magistrates: “He’d been out with work colleagues, drank some alcohol, and made the foolish

decision to drive his vehicle home. He accepts the circumstances could have been far worse.”

Mr Francis said Lloyd had been working as a concrete pumper, but his job was now at risk.

Magistrates indicated Lloyd would receive a medium community order, with the details to be decided after an alloptions probation report is prepared.

He was released on unconditional bail.

An interim driving disqualification was imposed, and he is due to be sentenced on February 3.

Father-of-two banned after drink-driving company van

A FATHER-of-two has been sentenced after driving a company van through Pembroke while over the drink-drive limit.

Billy Riley, 23, of Broadmoor, Kilgetty, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

The court heard Riley was stopped by officers as he drove a Fiat panel van through Pembroke town centre on Sunday, December 22. A roadside breath test proved positive and further tests at the police station showed the lowest reading was 55 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Checks later showed Riley was also driving without third party insurance.

“He’d been assured by his boss that he was insured to drive the van, but unfortunately this wasn’t the case,” his solicitor, Liam Francis, told magistrates.

“As a result of this offence, the defendant has now lost his job, so his punishment has already started.”

Magistrates disqualified Riley from driving for 15 months. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 surcharge.

For driving without third party insurance, his licence was endorsed.

Young driver banned after drink-drive stop

A 20-yEAR-OLD drink-driver has been banned from the roads for 15 months after being caught behind the wheel in Haverfordwest town centre.

Samuel Davies was stopped by officers just before midnight on Saturday, December 21 as he drove a black Mini along Freemans Way with a passenger.

Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court that officers could smell alcohol inside the vehicle. A roadside breath test proved positive and further tests at the police station showed Davies had 52 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

“When spoken to by the officers, he

Driver banned after speeding stop leads to drink-drive charge

FISHGUARD motorist stopped for speeding in a 20mph zone was later found to be over the drink-drive limit, magistrates heard.

Matthew Williams, 36, of Garnlas, Fishguard, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

The court was told Williams, a father of two, was seen driving a silver BMW 1 Series on the A487 between Newport and Temple Bar on the evening of Thursday, December 19.

Breath tests carried out by officers showed he had 42 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The

legal limit is 35.

“He’d been out for a meal and had consumed two pints of alcohol,” his solicitor, Liam Francis, told the court.

“He felt he was in a position to drive, but upon reflection he recognises that this wasn’t the case, and he should have been more cautious.”

Mr Francis said Williams runs a parttime mobile valeting service and the loss of his licence would have an impact on his work.

Magistrates disqualified Williams from driving for 13 months and fined him £120. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 surcharge.

said he’d had a bottle of VK some 20 minutes prior to being stopped,” she said.

Davies, of Begelly, Pembrokeshire, pleaded guilty to drink driving.

His solicitor, Liam Francis, said Davies had been out with friends in Haverfordwest and had not planned to drive home.

“He had no intention of driving home and had spent over an hour trying to contact a taxi service,” he said. “When this failed, he made the incredibly foolish decision to drive home.”

Magistrates disqualified Davies from driving for 15 months. He was fined £250 and ordered to pay a £100 surcharge and £85 costs.

Pensioner banned after drink-drive stop

A 76-yEAR-OLD motorist has been banned from driving after being caught behind the wheel of his Mercedes while over the drink-drive limit.

Terence Picton, of Plantation Cottages, Sandyhill Road, Saundersfoot, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas said Picton was stopped by officers on Friday, December 20 as he drove along Bevelin Hall, Saundersfoot.

“His speech was slurred and his eyes

were bloodshot,” she told magistrates.

Breath tests later showed Picton had 50 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Picton pleaded guilty and was not legally represented in court.

“I want to apologise to the court as obviously I made a mistake,” he told magistrates in mitigation.

Magistrates disqualified Picton from driving for 14 months. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 surcharge.

Carpenter banned after drink-drive stop in Tenby

A SELF-EMPLOyED carpenter stopped by police in Tenby after claiming he had taken Calpol was found to be almost three times over the drink-drive limit, magistrates heard.

Mark Skyrme, 46, of Fern Cottages, Penally, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas said Skyrme was stopped on the evening of Saturday, December 21 after officers saw him driving a Toyota Hilux along Lower Park Road, Tenby.

“He smelt strongly of alcohol and his eyes appeared glazed,” she told the court.

“When spoken to by the officers, the defendant said he’d taken some Calpol, which he claimed had an alcohol content of 7%.”

Breath tests later showed Skyrme had 96 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

The prosecutor said there was a passenger in the vehicle at the time, which was treated as an aggravating feature.

Skyrme pleaded guilty to drink driving. His solicitor, Liam Francis, said his client had been at home with his partner and had made “the foolish decision” to drive her home.

“He was fortunate that there was no accident,” Mr Francis told magistrates.

Magistrates disqualified Skyrme from driving for 26 months. He was also sentenced to a 12-month community order, during which he must complete 10 hours of unpaid work.

He was ordered to pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.

Investigation launched after man found dead near Carmarthen railway line

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man whose body was found in a field close to the railway track near Carmarthen railway station.

Emergency services were called to the area at just after 8:30am on Saturday (Jan 10). Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended alongside paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service.

Witnesses reported seeing police and ambulance vehicles outside the station’s main entrance, with officers also in an adjacent field near a railway bridge.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the man’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers.

A police spokesperson said enquiries are ongoing and the death is currently being treated as unexplained.

No further details, including the man’s age or identity, have been released.

Drug dealer ordered to pay after festival bust and e-bike crash

A MILFORD HAVEN drug dealer who thought he could cash in by supplying partygoers at a music festival has been ordered to hand over thousands of pounds under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Justin Cadwell, 29, of Picton Close, was jailed for five years after police stopped a vehicle on the A31 near Winchester on Thursday (Aug 8) 2024, acting on intelligence linked to drug dealing.

Cadwell was a passenger in the car, which was being driven by his sister. She was later cleared of involvement after police examined her phone.

Officers found a haul of drugs and other items believed to be destined for a Hampshire festival, including 44.363g of cannabis, nitrous oxide canisters valued at £2,225, 15.11g of ketamine, 12.4g of MDMA, and smaller quantities of cannabis.

When Cadwell’s home was later searched, police found a locked garden shed that had been converted into a drug store.

Inside, officers seized 53.25g of cannabis, 450g of cannabis resin, 29.8g

of cocaine, cutting agents and empty snap bags. They also recovered £25,307.85 in cash hidden in the shed and in Cadwell’s bedroom.

Cadwell claimed the money came from window cleaning work and gifts from his father, and insisted the drugs were for personal use.

E-bIkE CRASH

The case took another turn months later when emergency services were called to an e-bike crash at Hakin Point, Milford Haven, at around 7:00pm on Friday (Mar 1).

The bike had no lights and the passenger was not wearing a helmet. Cadwell, who was riding the bike, was knocked unconscious in the collision.

As paramedics cut away his jacket to treat him, they found 10.21g of cocaine and 60g of cannabis in his clothing, along with £588.03 in cash. Cadwell refused to provide a drugs specimen when required and again claimed the substances were for personal use.

GUILTy PLEAS

At Swansea Crown Court in July, Cadwell pleaded guilty to two offences of possession with intent to supply cocaine, three offences of possession with intent to supply cannabis, possession with intent to supply nitrous oxide and cannabis resin, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, possession of criminal property, and failing to provide a specimen.

Prosecutor Georgia Donohue told the court it was agreed Cadwell had benefited by £14,719.79 from drug dealing, with £6,569 in available assets.

Judge Geraint Walters made a confiscation order for £6,569, meaning Cadwell must pay that sum back or face further consequences.

Milford Haven’s offshore future in focus as floating wind project wins backing

Erebus scheme off Pembrokeshire coast backed in UK auction as Irish Sea port resilience plan published

PEMbROkESHIRE’S role in the next wave of offshore energy took a step forward on Wednesday (Jan 14) after a floating wind project planned off the county’s coastline secured Uk Government backing — with ministers also publishing fresh recommendations aimed at improving resilience across Irish Sea ports.

RenewableUK Cymru said Blue Gem Wind’s Erebus floating offshore wind test and demonstration project in the Celtic Sea, off the Pembrokeshire coast, was among the successful schemes in the latest UK offshore wind auction.

The project is being positioned as an early proving ground for floating wind in the Celtic Sea — technology seen as key to unlocking larger developments later in the 2030s — and is expected to help build confidence, reduce costs and develop the skills and supply chains needed for bigger projects to follow.

For Pembrokeshire, the significance is not only the turbines offshore, but what comes with them onshore: ports, fabrication, logistics, marine services and long-term

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

maintenance work.

Milford Haven, already one of Wales’s most strategically important ports and energy hubs, is expected to be central to any future Celtic Sea build-out — both in terms of supply-chain opportunities and the infrastructure needed to support new offshore industries.

RenewableUK Cymru said Wales secured two offshore wind successes in the auction, including Erebus in the south-west and RWE’s Awel y Môr off North Wales, representing around £2.6bn of investment opportunity and enough clean electricity to power almost one million homes. The projects are expected to be delivered around 2030–31.

On the same day, the Welsh and Irish governments published recommendations from the Irish Sea Resilience Taskforce, set up after the temporary closure of Holyhead Port in December 2024 caused major disruption.

Although Holyhead is in North Wales, the Taskforce’s work is being

seen across the sector as a reminder that Welsh ports are critical national infrastructure — and that resilience, contingency planning and clear communication matter when services are disrupted.

The recommendations include steps aimed at improving contingency plans to protect passenger connectivity and manage disruption better, as well as a commitment to an annual bilateral meeting between Irish and Welsh transport officials.

Ireland’s Minister of State with responsibility for international and road transport, logistics, rail and ports, Seán Canney, said the Taskforce had strengthened relationships between departments and would continue through annual meetings and regular communication.

Wales’s Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said discussions had reinforced the importance of Irish Sea-facing ports to communities in Wales and Ireland, and the shared responsibility to ensure they “thrive and grow”.

Taken together, the announcements point to a clear

theme for Pembrokeshire: Wales’s ports are being asked to do more — supporting new industries such as floating offshore wind, while also strengthening resilience and response planning for the disruptions that can hit major sea links.

For Milford Haven and the wider Haven Waterway, the question now is how quickly local infrastructure, contractors and training pathways can align with the emerging offshore wind opportunity — so that as projects scale up in the Celtic Sea, more of the jobs and investment are anchored in Pembrokeshire.

Later on Wednesday First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said: “I’m delighted that two Welsh offshore wind projects have secured contracts in the latest UK auction. This demonstrates how Wales is well placed to build on its existing capacity for renewable energy, to reap the benefits of these new projects bringing many highquality jobs and wider economic benefits to our economy.

“The floating offshore project off the coast of Pembrokeshire will help kickstart the new floating offshore wind industry for Wales and, together

with extending the fixed offshore wind generation in north Wales, will utilise the latest technology and help to reduce bills and boost our energy security.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “We will work with these companies to ensure our ports are used, and that our supply chains are in a position to support this industry. We know we have the ability to deliver on the skills already – our offer is recognised as globally competitive, and we will continue to build on this.”

“Wales is in a fantastic position to support the new floating wind industry and the additional fixed offshore wind projects.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: “Today’s announcement is huge news for Pembrokeshire and North Wales. It is a massive a vote

of confidence in Wales’ clean energy industry which is already delivering the well-paid, highly-skilled jobs of the future with the potential to bring thousands more.

“The UK Government is working with investors to develop home-grown clean power which will secure our energy supply and bring down bills for good. These new projects in the seas off Wales will help us achieve those goals.” On Thursday MS

Samuel Kurtz said in a statement to this newspaper: “This announcement is welcome news for Pembrokeshire.

For many years, I have been clear that our county is exceptionally well placed to benefit from floating offshore wind, with a skilled workforce, strong engineering capability, established ports and proximity to key natural assets all working in our favour. I have consistently made the case

for Pembrokeshire’s role in this sector, which is why this agenda was advanced under the previous UK Conservative Government, and I am pleased to see that progress continuing under this government.

“The real test, however, will be what happens next. It is essential that the economic benefits are maximised locally: that Pembroke Port is used to its full potential, that local firms can compete for and win work, while continuing to recognise the ongoing importance of the oil and gas sector to both our local economy and the UK’s energy security.

“There also remain serious questions for the Energy Secretary about rising energy bills for families and businesses, which have increased significantly since the election despite promises to reduce them.

“In short, this is good news, but it is not the end of the story. I will continue to make the case for Pembrokeshire so that our communities see real and lasting benefits from these developments.”

Port of Milford Haven took to social media to say: “The AR7 announcement is another step forward for offshore wind in Wales.

“As the closest deep-water port to the floating wind development areas, with specialist facilities available at Pembroke Dock boosted by freeport status, we stand ready to support the delivery of the Erebus project and this new industry for Wales.

“We are also delighted to hear of the success of the Awel Y Mor wind farm, and will do what we can to further build our longstanding relationship with the developer RWE.”

Milford Haven Chinese restaurant redevelopment plans on hold

PLANS to convert a vandalised former Pembrokeshire town centre Chinese restaurant to a flat and bedsits which were expected to be approved have been put on hold after concerns about the impact on a neighbouring property.

In an application recommended for approval, the January 13 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Mr S Sahin and Miss S Ahmed, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning

Ltd, seek permission for a change of use of Grade-II-listed 20 Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven from the former Mandarin Restaurant to one flat and eight bedsits, an amendment of an original scheme which included one extra bedsit

The scheme, in the town’s conservation area, was before committee rather than delegated to

officers as it was recommended for approval despite being contrary to a policy of the development plan.

The application for the Mandarin follows a withdrawn scheme for three flats deemed invalid by council planners.

A supporting statement said: “The property has historically been in use as a Chinese restaurant on the ground floor with two flats on the upper floors of the building. The ground floor use of the building ceased some 10 years ago and currently lies vacant. Due to the lack of use of the building, it is in a very poor condition and has been the subject of unfortunate vandalism particularly to the interior of the building.”

It says that, after the previous scheme was withdrawn, the applicants have “since reviewed their position and now present revised applications to be considered by the council”.

It went on to say: “The clients have re-thought on what type of accommodation is needed and required in this part of Milford Haven,” adding: “The proposal is considered to put an important Grade-II-Listed Building back into beneficial use and would help to secure its long-term

future. The proposal would represent a high-quality and sympathetic conversion and extension of the building, and which would make a positive contribution to the locality and conservation area status.”

An officer report recommending approval said one letter of objection was received raising concerns including potential impact on a neighbouring property and boundaries, and the discharge of the sewer under number 20.

At the meeting, member of the public Jessica Clarke raised concerns about the potential impact on her mother’s neighbouring property, with issues of height and massing, surface water discharge, and shared boundary walls, asking for a site visit before any decision was made.

Cllr Brian Hall, who moved a site visit, was one of several members who raised their concerns about potential impacts, members unanimously backing that move.

The application will return to a future planning meeting.

Earlier this week utilities companies were cutting off services to the building following a warrant from a magistrate.

Man admits sword threats made against sister

A MAN described in court as a paranoid schizophrenic has pleaded guilty to sending threats to kill his sister, including claims he would hack her head off with a Samurai sword.

Charles Bianchy, 37, of Pembroke Street, Pembroke Dock, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

Crown Prosecutor Charlotte Thomas said Bianchy was arrested on September

16 after posting a series of Facebook stories while walking through Pembroke Dock.

“He’d posted a series of Facebook stories as he walked through Pembroke Dock, claiming that his mother had refused to give him money, but had given some money to his sister,” she said.

“He then went on to say that he would hack his sister’s head off with a Samurai sword, throw a grenade bomb at her,

smack her head on the pavement and use her head as a target.

“Naturally this left her feeling very scared to leave her home.”

The court heard that when interviewed by police, Bianchy said he had no intention of carrying out the threats.

He pleaded guilty to sending messages threatening death or serious harm to his sister, Daisy Bianchi.

Bianchy was represented by solicitor

Michael Kelleher, who told magistrates his client suffers from paranoid schizophrenia. Magistrates adjourned sentencing for an all-options probation report. Bianchy was released on conditional bail, with conditions that he must not contact Daisy Bianchi, must not attend her address at Cuckoo Wood, Pembroke Dock, and must not refer to her on any electronic device. He is due to be sentenced on February 3.

Former Gwent detective would have been sacked after off duty assault conviction

A FORMER Gwent Police detective sergeant has been found guilty of gross misconduct after being convicted of assaulting a man while off duty in Devon.

Joanne Marston resigned from the force shortly before an accelerated misconduct hearing was due to begin at Cwmbran on Monday. The panel went ahead in her absence.

The hearing was told the incident happened in February 2024 while Marston was off duty in Devon. She was later arrested and charged with common assault, and was convicted at Exeter Magistrates’ Court in March last year.

A professional standards investigation concluded she had breached the police standards of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct. The panel upheld the allegation and found it amounted to gross misconduct.

Had she remained a serving officer, the panel ruled she would have been dismissed without notice.

Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend, who chaired the hearing, said the former officer’s actions were “shocking and unacceptable” and warned

Christmas jumper fundraiser raises £360 for youth counselling

A CHRISTMAS Jumper Day fundraiser held by staff at W.b Griffiths & Son Ltd has raised £360 for the Megan’s Starr Foundation, helping fund vital mental health support for young people.

The money, presented to the charity by Carla and Liam, will pay for 10 professional counselling sessions for young people who are struggling and in urgent need of support.

The Megan’s Starr Foundation said the sessions provide a safe space for young people to talk, be listened to, and feel supported at a time when it matters most.

In a statement, the charity thanked the firm and its staff for getting involved, adding that access to timely support can be life changing and can help young people realise they are not alone.

The foundation said it was grateful to everyone at W.B. Griffiths & Son Ltd who took part, describing the donation as one that will have a real and lasting impact on local young people and their mental health.

Residents invited to have their say on drone use in Ceredigion

Residents across Ceredigion are being invited to share their views on how drone technology could be used to support community safety and local services.

The consultation, which runs until the evening of 14 January 2026, seeks feedback on a draft Drone Policy as public services explore new ways of tackling anti-social behaviour, supporting inspections and improving emergency response.

Under the proposals, drones could be used to monitor hotspot areas, assist with inspections, gather evidence safely and improve the efficiency of local services. However, the potential use of the technology also raises important questions around privacy, data protection and public accountability.

The consultation asks residents for their views on how, when and where drones should be deployed under the draft policy, as well as what safeguards should be put in place to ensure their responsible and proportionate use.

Councillor Matthew Vaux, Cabinet Member for Partnerships, Housing, Legal and Governance and Public Protection, said drones could be a valuable tool but stressed the importance of public trust.

He said drones had the potential to improve public safety and support

enforcement, but transparency, trust and appropriate safeguards for residents were essential. He added that the consultation was specifically focused on the draft policy and provided an opportunity for residents to help shape its contents before any final decisions were made. He also noted there could be cost and efficiency benefits in other areas, such as

surveying and structural inspections.

As part of the consultation, residents are being asked for their views on when and where drones should be deployed, how any data collected should be stored and used, and what measures should be in place to protect privacy.

Feedback gathered through the consultation will be used to help

shape the final policy and ensure that any introduction of drone technology is necessary, proportionate and transparent.

Residents are encouraged to take part by completing the online survey, emailing their views to the council, or submitting paper feedback forms available at local libraries and council reception areas.

Pembrokeshire couple to take on 3,200mile Atlantic Dash rowing challenge

A COUPLE from Pembrokeshire are preparing for the adventure of a lifetime – rowing 3,200 miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

Emma Gent, 53, and her partner Andrew Ravenscroft are currently in the Canary Islands ready for the start of the Atlantic Dash, an endurance race regarded as one of the toughest challenges in the world.

The pair, competing as Team SharkBait, are due to set off on Saturday, January 24, aiming to reach Antigua in the Caribbean in a journey expected to take around two months.

They will row alone in a sevenmetre boat, named Donkey, with no support crew, no motor and no sails – just two sets of oars and the open Atlantic.

Team SharkBait has already raised £5,845 of its £6,500 target for four charities: Wales Air Ambulance, The MS Society, Megan Starr Foundation and The Robin Cancer Trust.

Emma, a sister in A&E at Withybush

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Hospital, said the challenge has been years in the making.

“I have been interested in rowing the Atlantic for three years now, and after a couple of team changes due to various reasons, I was thinking about doing it as a solo rower,” she said.

“Andrew has many challenges already under his belt and was looking for a new one, and when I asked him to join me, he jumped at the chance.

“I am delighted that Andrew has decided to join me. He is new to rowing but has not let that stop him in any way and has taken to it like a duck to water.”

Emma said she wanted to take on the challenge for a range of reasons – from the adventure to the charities –and to inspire her children.

“I have wanted to do this for a long time; the challenge, the charities, the adventure, the achievement and

to prove to my children that nothing is impossible if you’re determined enough,” she said.

“To be able to share the highs and lows of this whole experience with Andrew has made the road ahead feel less daunting.”

Andrew, from Tenby, marked his 60th birthday this week in Lanzarote. He has previously completed an Ironman and other endurance challenges.

Emma, a mother of three, has been a Celtic longboat rower for more than twenty years and has rowed from Ireland to Wales twice – but said this will be her biggest test to date.

“We have spent time training for the last few months, along with sourcing and purchasing the considerable amount of equipment needed to keep us safe,” she said.

“Many hours have been spent on the computer learning about the specialist gear required.

“It’s been a long slog, but we are

delighted to be in Lanzarote at the start line and excited to get going. We hope to complete it and enjoy a cocktail or two in Antigua, fingers crossed, a couple of months after our start date.”

Emma said the Wales Air Ambulance was chosen as one of the beneficiaries because of its importance to patients and families across Wales.

“My daughter had an accident several years ago and although the air ambulance didn’t end up assisting, they were on standby to support,” she said.

“Having worked in A&E for many years, I have seen how much the air ambulance can do, not just with accidents but also with transportation of patients to more appropriate hospitals.”

The Wales Air Ambulance is consultant-led, delivering hospitalstandard care at the scene and, when required, transferring patients directly to the most appropriate hospital. It operates through a partnership with the NHS Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS), with NHS consultants and critical care practitioners working onboard the charity’s aircraft and rapid response vehicles.

Its advanced critical care capability includes administering anaesthesia, delivering blood transfusions and carrying out minor operations at the roadside or in remote locations.

Mike May, the charity’s Regional Fundraising Manager for South West Wales, said: “The challenge Team SharkBait has set themselves is incredible. Emma and Andrew are a brave and determined couple for taking on this remarkable challenge in aid of charities close to their hearts.

“We are extremely grateful to them both for supporting the Wales Air Ambulance. Emma knows firsthand how important the service is to the people of Wales when they need us most.

“The Charity relies on public donations to raise the £13 million required every year to keep our helicopters in the air and our rapid response vehicles on the road.

“Good luck with your challenge and stay safe.”

People can support the pair by donating via their fundraising page at: www.gofundme.com/f/sharkbait26 Updates will also be shared on their Facebook page: SharkBait.

MAWWFRS raises more than £168,000 for Fire Fighters

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has raised an impressive £168,604 for the Fire Fighters Charity over the past 12 months, marking a slight increase on last year’s total of £166,297.

The total reflects the continued commitment and generosity of staff across the Service, with both operational and support teams taking part in a wide range of fundraising activities. These included community car washes, Fire Station open days, physical challenges and a variety of creative initiatives held throughout the year.

Speaking on the achievement, MAWWFRS Assistant Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery thanked everyone involved, saying the support would make a lasting difference.

He said the generosity, enthusiasm and community spirit shown by staff and supporters would have a real impact on the work of the Fire Fighters Charity and on the lives of those who dedicate themselves to keeping others safe.

The Fire Fighters Charity provides lifelong support for the mental, physical and social wellbeing of serving and retired firefighters, their families, and other Fire and Rescue Service personnel. Founded in 1943, the Charity is funded through donations and fundraising events and remains a vital resource for those working within the Fire and Rescue Service community.

Pictured receiving the Service’s Certificate of Appreciation are Assistant Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery and MAWWFRS Central Response Officer and Charity Coordinator Nerys Thomas, both of whom have personally benefited from the Charity’s support.

During his recovery from a knee ligament injury, ACFO Flannery received tailored rehabilitation support from the Fire Fighters Charity, which

played a key role in helping him manage the physical and emotional challenges associated with his injury. As Charity Coordinator, Nerys Thomas acts as the link between the Fire Fighters Charity and MAWWFRS staff. She has also received support herself following rehabilitation treatment after a skiing accident. Her bespoke

programme included pool sessions, workshops and guided walks, helping her return to running sooner than expected. After the death of her father, she again turned to the Charity for support, taking part in a Rest and Recharge stay at Harcombe House.

Speaking about her experience, Nerys said: “During my Rest and Recharge stay, my mother, my husband

and I were able to enjoy lovely walks, outdoor reading, trips to the local area and had all our meals prepared for us by the chefs there which were amazing.

“The charity was absolutely brilliant throughout my contact with them. I’m keen to spread the word to other green book staff who still aren’t aware they’re eligible for support from the charity.”

Ward closures at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli as norovirus cases rise

FOUR wards at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli have been temporarily closed and visiting restrictions introduced after cases of norovirus were confirmed on the site and in the wider community.

Hywel Dda University Health Board said the measures came into force on Tuesday (Jan 13) and apply to the whole hospital, even though four wards are currently affected.

Visiting has been limited to essential visits only, with the health board asking members of the public not to attend the hospital “until further notice”. Essential visiting may be permitted in exceptional circumstances, and families are being advised to contact wards directly or the hospital switchboard for guidance.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, and outbreaks often lead to ward closures to help prevent further spread.

Sharon Daniel, Hywel Dda’s Director of Nursing, Quality and Patient

Experience said: “We have taken the decision to restrict all but essential visiting to Prince Philip Hospital in order to keep patients and staff safe and to halt the spread of norovirus, which is currently circulating in our local community.

“I know this will be difficult for those who have loved ones in hospital and we will re-open the wards as soon as it is safe to do so. Please keep an eye on our website or social media for further updates.”

The health board said other hospital sites across Hywel Dda are operating as normal, but urged people not to visit friends and relatives if they have symptoms of flu, sickness or diarrhoea, and to wear a face covering when attending clinical sites.

Ms Daniel added: “You should only

come to our sites if you are feeling well. This helps us limit the spread of viruses and protect our most vulnerable patients. It also helps us to keep staff well, so that they can look after those in greatest need of our care.”

Hywel Dda also encouraged eligible people to take up flu vaccinations, and

said information on flu jabs — including RSV and COVID-19 boosters where applicable — is available via the health board’s website or its vaccination helpline.

For further information, the public can call 0300 303 8322 (option one) or email ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk.

The alternative view By Mike Dello

A yOUNG woman in Iran, a student of just 23, has become a symbol of the Iranian people’s struggle for basic freedoms.

Rubina Aminian is said to have been shot at close range during the latest unrest, and her death has been spoken of far beyond her family and friends. Accounts circulating from outside Iran describe a mother holding her daughter’s body for hours as the authorities delayed matters, followed by a hurried burial under pressure. It is a grim story, and one that captures the cruelty of a system that fears its own people.

Her killing sits alongside other reports emerging from Iran in recent days. Protesters have allegedly been deliberately blinded by pellet rounds. Executions have been threatened. The internet has been cut. And Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has claimed control has been regained, with loyalist crowds brought out to demonstrate on the regime’s behalf. Whether every detail survives scrutiny or not, the broad picture is unmistakable: a state using force, fear and censorship to hold back demands for change.

Into that pressure cooker has stepped President Donald Trump with words that sound less like diplomacy and more like a warning. He has urged Iranian patriots to keep protesting, to take over their institutions, and to record the names of “killers and abusers” who, he says, will pay a price. He has also claimed to have cancelled meetings with Iranian officials until the killings stop. Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has spoken of wanting talks with the United States. As the world watches, the question is whether Trump’s intervention helps the protesters or simply gives hardliners a fresh excuse to tighten the screws.

Trump, meanwhile, is taking heavy criticism at home too, not least for an increasingly hard-

edged approach to law and order. One case in Minneapolis has been widely shared and hotly contested: Renée Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, caught up in street disorder, reportedly shot dead as she tried to manoeuvre her car away from trouble. The footage, and the arguments about what it shows, have become another flashpoint in a country that feels more divided by the week.

The controversial president is also considering what to do about Greenland, which he sees as strategically vulnerable as Russia and China push their influence in Arctic shipping. As he puts it, he “does not want Greenland as a neighbour” on current terms. His options, in his own mind, range from buying Greenland from Denmark, to occupation, to a major expansion of US military presence on an island of roughly 59,000

people who, frankly, do not want Danish or American involvement to define their future.

Closer to home, Reform has acquired another former Tory heavyweight in Nadhim Zahawi. He was chancellor for a brief spell and left government under the cloud of a tax scandal. Since then, he has been blocked by the Conservative hierarchy from securing a seat in the House of Lords. Reform, however, is rarely shy about welcoming yesterday’s men and women, and this latest recruit fits the pattern perfectly.

A couple of local stories to finish. New Year’s Eve arrived in Cwm Gwaun in north Pembrokeshire on Tuesday, January 13, as it has done for generations. When most of the world shifted calendars, the valley kept its own tradition, and the Dyffryn Arms was packed to capacity.

And there was a moment of meteorological novelty too, as Pembrokeshire briefly popped up in national coverage thanks to “thundersnow”, the oddly dramatic name for what is, essentially, a thunderstorm accompanied by snow instead of rain.

We cannot let this column go without hailing a sporting moment for the ages. Macclesfield, a club that almost folded in 2020, produced what many are calling the biggest FA Cup shock ever by dethroning holders Crystal Palace. Macclesfield sit far below Palace in the football pyramid, with semiprofessional players and nonleague realities, but on the day none of that mattered. Their reward is another home tie, this time against Premier League opposition Brentford. After those heroics, who would bet against them?

First minister sets out Wales “Team Wales” emergency plan in Covid inquiry update

FIRST MINISTER Eluned Morgan has said Wales has “significantly strengthened” the way government and emergency services prepare for and respond to major incidents, as she published the Welsh Government’s second six-monthly progress update following the Uk Covid-19 Inquiry’s Module 1 report.

In a written statement issued on Wednesday (Jan 14), Morgan said the Wales Resilience Framework and its delivery plan — announced in May 2025 — continues to guide work to improve risk assessment, strengthen readiness and response capability, and build community resilience, with a particular focus on the impacts of emergencies on vulnerable people.

The update follows the UK Inquiry’s Module 1 findings on the UK’s resilience and preparedness, which made a series of recommendations aimed at improving civil emergency planning and pandemic readiness. The Welsh Government published its formal response to Module 1 in January 2025 and provided a first sixmonthly update in July 2025.

Morgan said that over the last two years Wales has consolidated and strengthened coordination between government and emergency responders, describing a “Team Wales” approach built around a shared risk picture, clearer joint protocols, joint training and exercising, and active oversight.

Response activated 31 times in 2025

The First Minister said Wales activated its strategic response arrangements on 31 occasions in 2025 to support national and local multi-agency coordination. She said stress-testing those arrangements in real incidents and exercises had delivered faster mobilisation and more coordinated communications during incidents including water outages, flooding, cyber attacks and wildfires.

NEW CRISIS MODEL bEING DEVELOPED

Responding to the Inquiry’s recommendation about leadership for prolonged, whole-system emergencies, Morgan said Wales uses a “lead department” model underpinned by subsidiarity — taking decisions at the lowest appropriate level, while coordinating at the highest necessary level.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

She said ministers also recognise the model can have limitations during prolonged emergencies, and that a cross-government group has been established to develop an alternative approach for enduring whole-system crises.

That work will inform a Welsh Government Crisis Management Concept of Operations (CONOPs), which the statement said will be published in final form in autumn 2026 following consultation with partners and independent review.

bETTER DATA ON VULNERAbILITy

The statement also highlighted work to improve risk assessment and the identification of vulnerable groups during emergencies.

Morgan said a dedicated team is enhancing the Welsh Government’s JIGSO data platform, hosted on DataMapWales, which is used during emergency responses and planning.

The statement said JIGSO can enable secure access to sensitive information — including data drawn from Dŵr Cymru’s Priority Services Register — to help emergency services and resilience partners prioritise support to properties and households classed as at risk.

Pandemic exercise findings due late 2026

Morgan confirmed Wales took part in Exercise PEGASUS, a UKwide “Tier 1” pandemic preparedness exercise involving all four nations, testing response arrangements across phases of emergence, containment and mitigation, with a recovery phase continuing into 2026.

A report setting out findings and learning from the exercise is expected to be published in late 2026, the statement said.

HEALTH DATA UPGRADES AND MODELLING STRATEGy

The First Minister said Wales has established a data, evidence and analytical team to integrate data into emergency planning and response, and has signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK National

Situation Centre on reciprocal data provision during crises.

The statement also said up to £2.29m in 2025–26 was awarded to Public Health Wales to transform its core health protection digital system, with the first phase scheduled to complete in March 2026, and that work is continuing on the Welsh Emergency Care Data Set, with full adoption still targeted for autumn 2026.

SENEDD SCRUTINy

The Welsh Government has also provided an evidence paper to the Senedd’s Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee ahead of a scrutiny session with the First Minister on Thursday (Jan 15).

Response from other parties No formal responses from opposition parties to Wednesday’s written statement were available at the time of writing.

The statement said the Welsh Government will continue to work with the UK Government and devolved administrations on UK-wide emergencies, including through fournations resilience structures.

Eluned Morgan: Wales ‘damn right’ to demand more rail cash

WALES’ First Minister Eluned Morgan has insisted it is “damn right” Wales should press the Uk Government for more rail funding, as she faced criticism in the Senedd over what Plaid Cymru described as a “paltry” settlement.

During First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday (Jan 13), Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth challenged Labour’s record on rail and accused the Welsh Government of being too deferential to Westminster, saying Scotland had been able to secure more capital spending from the UK Government. He told the Senedd it had been six months since the First Minister had said she was “at the table and getting things done” on fair funding, claiming the evidence

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suggested otherwise. He also raised concerns about the UK Government seeking to influence how some funding is spent in Wales, and asked what she was confident she could persuade Prime Minister Keir Starmer to deliver to Wales between now and May.

Replying, the First Minister said: “Do I want more rail funding from the UK Government? Damn right I do… Have I been silent about that? No, I have not.”

She said Wales had received “£435m additional money” compared with what it received under the Conservatives, but accepted it was not enough, adding that there would be “a pipeline” of further investment in future.The exchange comes against the backdrop of longstanding arguments over rail investment in Wales—particularly around HS2, which has been treated for funding purposes as an “England and Wales” project despite no HS2 track being built in Wales.

The Welsh Government has previously estimated Wales has missed out on £431m in rail funding consequentials linked to HS2 between 2016-17 and 2025-26. Other estimates have suggested the overall shortfall could be substantially higher over a

longer period.

A separate UK Government announcement last year set out £445m for rail improvements in Wales, though questions have remained about exactly where and when the money would be spent.

In December, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said £78m of that pot would go towards Cardiff Central, with

further detail expected in the new year following discussions through the Wales Rail Board.

For west Wales, the debate matters because rail investment decisions affect connectivity to Swansea, Cardiff and beyond—links relied on by commuters, students, hospital visitors and businesses across Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

Cllr Mike Stoddart’s funeral to take place on February 3

Former councillor died aged 85 after passing away peacefully at Withybush Hospital

COUNCILLOR Mike Stoddart’s funeral will take place on Tuesday, February 3 at 2.30pm, it has been confirmed.

Mr Stoddart, of Liddeston, Milford Haven, died peacefully at Withybush General Hospital on Sunday, January 4, aged 85, with his family by his side.

A celebration of his life will be held

at Parc Gwyn Crematorium in Narberth, followed by refreshments at the Lord Nelson Hotel in Milford Haven.

Family and friends are welcome to attend.

Family flowers only have been requested. Donations in memory of Mr Stoddart will support Hubberston & Hakin Community Centre.

Arrangements are being handled by Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Milford Haven.

Narberth and Whitland Rotary Young Musician contest returns

yOUNG musicians from across the area are being invited to take part in the next stage of Narberth and Whitland Rotary’s annual young Musician Competition.

The first round of this year’s contest was held at Bethesda Chapel in Narberth, with Rotary members thanking the performers, judges, parents, teachers and caterers for supporting what they described as an excellent evening of local talent.

The Round 1 winners were instrumental performer Lleucu Haf Thomas, who played grand piano, and vocalist Max Morris. Both are students at Ysgol Bro Preseli.

The next round, bringing together winners from other first-round competitions, will take place at Bethesda Chapel on Wednesday (Jan 21), starting at 6:30pm. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Screening crisis: 15,000 ‘missing’ women at risk of breast cancer in Wales

A PETITION signed by more than 4,000 people has thrust Wales’ breast cancer screening programme into the spotlight amid low take-up and “massive” disparities across the country.

On Monday January 12, Senedd Members considered the 4,254-signature petition on improving the national Breast Test Wales screening programme run by Public Health Wales.

The Senedd’s petitions committee heard only 69% of women invited for screening attended their appointment in 2022/23, below a 70% minimum standard and an 80% target.

The petitioners wrote: “If the 80% target was met, 15,871 more women would have been screened and an estimated 154 more breast cancers detected.”

Breast Cancer Now, which organised the petition, pointed to latest uptake data for the UK –showing England at 70%, Northern Ireland at 74% and Scotland at 75%.

Highlighting an awareness campaign launched in England in 2025, the charity urged the Welsh Government to similarly promote potentially life-saving breast screening.

Plaid Cymru’s Lindsay Whittle was taken aback: “I would say this is certainly the most alarming statistic I have read in possibly the past 35-40 years I’ve been involved in politics.

“To think that 15,000 women are walking around Wales not being screened and 154 of those women probably have early signs of breast cancer is alarming.

“And we have to send out a 999 message to women in all corners of Wales: please use this facility, it is absolutely vital. If this facility was taken away, we would probably have demonstrators outside this building –and rightly so.”

Calling for a communications campaign to save lives, Caerphilly MS Mr Whittle added: “The low takeup in many areas of Wales is a matter of national concern.”

He urged colleagues on the crossparty petitions committee to write to health secretary Jeremy Miles, seeking answers on breast cancer screening.

The politician questioned: “What is England doing differently to Wales because they seem to be more successful? Well, that shouldn’t be right obviously.”

Mr Whittle stressed: “We have to ensure that women’s lives are protected and they’re given this help as fast as possible. Early detection is vital.”

Vaughan Gething, the former First Minister and health secretary, supported calls to ask the Welsh Government for an update on plans for a new wider screening equity strategy.

Labour’s Carolyn Thomas, who chairs the committee, explained people continue to go every three years if they attend their first screening, “so it’s getting them there in the first place”.

Ms Thomas, who had to rearrange her own appointment last week due to a family medical emergency, said early detection could save the NHS as much as £100m.

A Public Health Wales report showed significant disparities, with uptake ranging from more than 70% in Carmarthenshire to 40% on Anglesey in 2021/22.

Rhys ab Owen, who sits as an independent, suggested a debate in the main chamber but recognised the clock was ticking on the Senedd term with an election in May.

He said: “I was unaware of this issue before the petition and I’d be very interested to know the reason behind the difference between different local authorities. There must be a reason: why is Ynys Môn so low at 40%? It’s a massive outlier.”

The committee agreed to write to health secretary Jeremy Miles about the forthcoming screening equity strategy and the use of 11 mobile centres in Wales.

Breast Cancer Now also expressed concerns about delays in data reporting, with a 2023/24 annual report set to be published a year after the equivalent English data.

The charity stressed: “Timely annual statistical reporting, in line with the timescale of other UK nations, increases transparency and accountability within Wales’ breast screening programme, and supports evidence-based decision making and long-term planning.”

In an earlier letter to the committee, Mr Miles told the committee uptake rates can vary across regions, age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.

He wrote: “The reasons women choose not to take up the offer are complex. Factors may include lack of awareness, fear or anxiety about the screening process and results, cultural and language barriers, access issues, and the impact of misinformation.

“We are committed to maximising breast screening uptake across all communities, recognising its vital role in early cancer detection and improved outcomes.”

Offshore future in focus as floating wind project wins backing

PEMbROkESHIRE’S role in the next wave of offshore energy took a step forward on Wednesday (Jan 14) after a floating wind project planned off the county’s coastline secured Uk Government backing — with ministers also publishing fresh recommendations aimed at improving resilience across Irish Sea ports.

RenewableUK Cymru said Blue Gem Wind’s Erebus floating offshore wind test and demonstration project in the Celtic Sea, off the Pembrokeshire coast, was among the successful schemes in the latest UK offshore wind auction.

The project is being positioned as an early proving ground for floating wind in the Celtic Sea — technology seen as key to unlocking larger developments later in the 2030s — and is expected to help build confidence, reduce costs and develop the skills and supply chains needed for bigger projects to follow.

For Pembrokeshire, the significance is not only the turbines offshore, but what comes with them onshore: ports, fabrication, logistics, marine services and long-term maintenance work.

Milford Haven, already one of Wales’s most strategically important ports and energy hubs, is expected to be central to any future Celtic Sea build-out — both in

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terms of supply-chain opportunities and the infrastructure needed to support new offshore industries.

RenewableUK Cymru said Wales secured two offshore wind successes in the auction, including Erebus in the south-west and RWE’s Awel y Môr off North Wales, representing around £2.6bn of investment opportunity and enough clean electricity to power almost one million homes. The projects are expected to be delivered around 2030–31.

On the same day, the Welsh and Irish governments published

recommendations from the Irish Sea Resilience Taskforce, set up after the temporary closure of Holyhead Port in December 2024 caused major disruption.

Although Holyhead is in North Wales, the Taskforce’s work is being seen across the sector as a reminder that Welsh ports are critical national infrastructure — and that resilience, contingency planning and clear communication matter when services are disrupted.

The recommendations include steps aimed at improving contingency plans to protect passenger connectivity and manage disruption better, as well as a commitment to an annual bilateral meeting between Irish and Welsh

transport officials.

Ireland’s Minister of State with responsibility for international and road transport, logistics, rail and ports, Seán Canney, said the Taskforce had strengthened relationships between departments and would continue through annual meetings and regular communication.

Wales’s Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said discussions had reinforced the importance of Irish Sea-facing ports to communities in Wales and Ireland, and the shared responsibility to ensure they “thrive and grow”.

Taken together, the announcements point to a clear theme for Pembrokeshire: Wales’s ports are being asked to do more — supporting new industries such as floating offshore wind, while also strengthening resilience and response planning for the disruptions that can hit major sea links.

For Milford Haven and the wider Haven Waterway, the question now is how quickly local infrastructure, contractors and training pathways can align with the emerging offshore wind opportunity — so that as projects scale up in the Celtic Sea, more of the jobs and investment are anchored in Pembrokeshire.

Welsh businesses invited to shine as awards open for 2026

ENTRIES have today (Jan 12) opened for the Wales business Awards 2026, which celebrate innovation, ambition and achievement among businesses across Wales.

Organised by Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, the awards are firmly established as a flagship event in the Welsh business

calendar and aim to recognise organisations driving growth, creating opportunity and contributing to the Welsh economy.

The 2026 awards include categories covering areas such as innovation, manufacturing, customer excellence, creativity and inclusion. New awards introduced this year include Inclusive Employer of the Year, Start Up Business

of the Year and the Wales Creative Impact Award, reflecting the evolving priorities of Welsh businesses.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony hosted by broadcaster Andrea Byrne on May 14 at Holland House Hotel. One overall winner will also be named Wales Business of the Year.

The 2025 title was awarded to

Concrete Canvas Ltd, a Pontyclunbased manufacturer recognised for its growth ambitions and innovative engineering solutions.

Gus Williams, chief executive of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said the awards highlight the role businesses play in shaping Wales’ economic future. He said: “Every year we are inspired by the quality, ambition and determination shown by businesses across Wales.

“The awards provide an opportunity to showcase success, share best practice and celebrate the positive impact Welsh businesses are making locally, nationally and internationally.”

The awards are open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, with entry open to both Chamber members and nonmembers. The closing date for entries is February 27.

Further information and entry details are available via the Chambers Wales website.

Wales Business Awards 2026 categories

• Apprenticeship Scheme of the Year

• Customer Excellence Award

• Digital Business Award

• Exporter of the Year

• Green Business Award

• Inclusive Employer of the Year

• Innovation Award

• Manufacturer of the Year

• Outstanding Workplace Culture Award

• Professional Services Firm of the Year

• Start Up Business of the Year

• Wales Creative Impact Award

Business rates changes: West Wales firms invited to online briefing

WEST WALES business owners are being invited to an online briefing later this month to help them understand forthcoming business Rates changes, amid concerns that new rateable values could lead to sharp increases for retail, hospitality and tourism firms.

The session will be held on Monday, January 26 at 10:30am and will be hosted by Paul Davies MS and Samuel Kurtz MS. Guest speakers will include the Valuation Office Agency, who will explain how the changes will work in practice and what businesses can do to prepare ahead of the new valuations coming into force in April 2026.

Organisers say many businesses across the region have already seen significant rises in rateable value, increasing pressure on high streets, local jobs and investment. Hospitality and tourism operators, in particular, have warned that further increases could be unsustainable.

The briefing is aimed at business owners, employers and managers seeking practical information on what is changing, how it could affect their premises, and what steps they can take ahead of April. The event will also give businesses a chance to raise concerns directly with elected representatives.

Samuel Kurtz MS said: “Too many local businesses are facing sharp increases in their rateable values, at a time when costs are already rising. This session is about making sure business owners understand what is coming, what options are available to them, and how we can make the strongest possible case for a fairer system.”

Paul Davies MS added: “Hospitality and tourism businesses are the backbone of our local economy, particularly in West Wales. We want to hear directly from businesses about the challenges they face and ensure their voices are heard as decisions are made about Business Rates in Wales.”

More details and registration are available via Samuel

MS’s website.

The online briefing will cover an overview of the Business Rates system in Wales, what the new rateable value changes mean for local businesses, and how firms can have their say as the case for a fairer system is made.

Supporting Little Feet to get walking

SCHEMES across Wales which encourage children and young people to adopt healthy walking habits are going from strength to strength.

The organisation Living Streets has delivered a travel tracker which has a reward system to encourage children to travel to school by active and sustainable travel.

Between 2023 and 2025 the organisation worked with over 55,800 pupils in 189 primary schools and 7700 pupils in 42 secondary schools, logging over 5.4 million journeys as part of the Welsh Government funded Walk to School programme. Three Welsh Schools featured in the UK wide Top Ten “WoW tracker” schools’ leaderboard.

Due to the popularity of the programme it has expanded in 2025 –26, with Welsh Government support, into early years settings under the Little Feet programme, which is for two to five year olds.

Little Feet introduces the benefits of walking to young children and their families, encouraging them to adopt healthy walking habits through topics linked to the Early Learning Goals.

sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email

Funding of over £400,000 has been made available for the next financial year in the draft budget to build on this success and deliver Little Feet alongside the wider programme in primary and secondary schools.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “We want all forms of travel to be accessible for everyone. This includes providing opportunities to walk, wheel and cycle safely. Encouraging children and young people to take up healthy walking habits which they can then continue throughout their lives is important. Both children and adults tell us how much they value this time where they walk and chat together. Little Feet is a great initiative which allows children to pick up the walking habit from the earliest opportunity.”

The support for Living Streets is part of a package of measures to encourage people to try making more journeys by walking, wheeling and cycling and to help make roads and streets safer. Sarah Jane Absalom

Welsh Conservatives call for ‘Welsh stamp duty’ to be scrapped for main homes

WELSH CONSERVATIVES are pressing the Welsh Government to scrap Land Transaction Tax (LTT) for people buying their primary residence, tabling a motion for debate in the Senedd on Wednesday (Jan 14).

LTT replaced Stamp Duty Land Tax in Wales in 2018 and is collected by the Welsh Revenue Authority. The tax applies to property and land purchases above set thresholds, with different rates for main homes and higher rates for additional properties.

The Conservatives say removing LTT on main homes would help firsttime buyers and make it easier for older homeowners to downsize, arguing it would boost mobility in the housing market and support the wider economy. Their motion calls on the Welsh Government to “support Welsh Conservative calls to scrap Land Transaction Tax for primary residences in Wales.”

Commenting ahead of the debate, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Local Government and Housing, Joel James MS said the tax should be removed to “get our housing market and economy moving” and to give people “the dignity of owning their own home.”

Shadow Finance Secretary, Sam Rowlands MS, said: “Land Transaction Tax is yet another tax from Labour and

Plaid that is putting home ownership out of reach for far too many young people and Land Transaction Tax stands in the way of mobility in our housing market.

“That’s why a Welsh Conservative Government will scrap this tax and put more money in people’s pockets.”

Funding questions

The party says LTT raises around £147 million a year and has previously

argued the cost of scrapping it for main homes could be covered through unallocated funding in the Welsh Government’s budget.

However, opponents of abolishing property transaction taxes have raised concerns that removing a revenue stream would mean either spending cuts elsewhere or tax rises, while some housing commentators argue

that cutting upfront purchase costs can increase demand without increasing the number of homes available — potentially putting further upward pressure on prices unless housebuilding rises.

The Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru were asked for comment on the proposal, including how any reduction in revenue would be managed within the Welsh budget.

Story of friendship and history becomes a profound study of complicated humanity

WITH the Torch Theatre’s popular £5 cinema ticket offer running throughout January and February, Eleanor the Great is a standout screening not to be missed.

The film features a remarkable central performance from June Squibb, who shines as Eleanor Morgenstein, a sharp-witted and spirited 94-year-old whose carefully told story begins to take on a dangerous life of its own.

Eleanor has always prided herself on staying connected to the world around her. Following a devastating loss, she leaves Florida for New York City to live with her daughter and grandson, hoping to rebuild family ties. Instead, she finds herself increasingly isolated and invisible. A chance encounter leads her into a support group where she does not quite belong, and in an unguarded moment she shares a story that unexpectedly draws attention she never intended to seek.

As a young journalism student begins to pursue Eleanor as both a friend and mentor, the consequences

of that story row increasingly complex. When the situation spirals beyond her control, Eleanor is forced to confront the truth — and the cost of the life she has allowed others to believe.

Critics have praised Squibb’s performance. The Guardian described her as giving “an enjoyably twinkly performance,” while Empire Magazine noted: “The plot is predictable and the look unmemorable, but Johansson has nevertheless crafted a pleasingly oldfashioned character piece with just enough bite to balance its emotion.”

In her directorial debut, Scarlett Johansson delicately weaves themes of ageing, family, loss and the blurred line between truth and deceit. What begins as a quiet story of friendship and memory gradually unfolds into a thoughtful and deeply human exploration of identity.

Eleanor the Great will be screened at the Torch Theatre on:

• Friday, January 16 at 5:15pm

• Saturday, January 17 at 4:15pm

• Sunday, January 18 at 7:15pm

• Tuesday, January 20 at 7:45pm

Tickets are priced at £5 as part of the January cinema offer. For more information, visit the Torch Theatre website or contact the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

The Bluetones to perform at top Pembrokeshire music venue

THERE aren’t many bands that can claim to have knocked ‘Oasis’ off their number one debut album spot, and when it comes to long-standing accolades, The bluetones take some beating.

The Indie-pop band stems way back to 1993 when they began taking the Brit Pop scene by storm. Their debut release ‘Are You Blue or Are You Blind’ broke into the top 40 while their single proved to be the launching pad for a run that saw no fewer than 14 hit singles and six albums. This was the album that knocked Oasis ‘What’s The Story Morning Glory’ from the top spot. The band just missed out on a number one single with ‘Slight Return’, which was arguably their most famous song,

which was kept at bay by Babylon Zoo’s ‘Spaceman’.

The band, made up of brothers Mark and Scott Morris, alongside Adam Devlin and Eds Chesters, enjoyed considerable success in the UK and Ireland before extending out into Europe and Japan.

Following a four year hiatus between 2011 and 2015, The Bluetones have established themselves as one of the UK’s most consistently entertaining live acts, regularly touring their extensive catalogue to their army of devoted fans.

And now local audiences are being given the chance to hear them live when they perform at the De Valance Pavilion, Tenby, on July 4.

Police visit Cherry Grove Learning Centre as focus placed on safeguarding and wellbeing

POLICE officers from Dyfed-Powys Police have visited Cherry Grove Learning Centre in Pembrokeshire as part of a programme aimed at supporting learner wellbeing, personal safety, and online awareness.

The visit saw PC Morris and PCSO Griffiths, from Haverfordwest Police Station, working directly with pupils in sessions described by the centre as calm, supportive, and age-appropriate. Topics covered included staying safe in the community, recognising online risks, and understanding who to turn to if something does not feel right.

Cherry Grove, which provides alternative education for learners who find mainstream school environments challenging, said safeguarding and wellbeing remain central to its approach. The centre stressed that it is non-faithbased and does not promote political or religious beliefs, focusing instead on creating a safe and inclusive learning

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

environment.

The police engagement comes against a backdrop of increased scrutiny of alternative provision across Pembrokeshire and Wales more widely, with recent inspections and council reviews highlighting the importance of strong safeguarding arrangements, clear governance, and external partnership working.

Education and safeguarding experts have repeatedly emphasised the role of community-based support, including liaison with police and youth services, in helping vulnerable learners build confidence and make positive choices.

Cherry Grove thanked the officers for their time and support, saying the sessions were designed to help learners feel reassured, informed, and supported both inside and outside the classroom.

gaming

ESCAPE from Ever After feels like a dream that knows it’s a dream—and then decides to gently unravel itself. From the moment it opens, the game establishes a mood that is both comforting and quietly unsettling, wrapping familiar fairy-tale imagery in a tone that feels introspective rather than whimsical. It doesn’t rush to explain itself, and that patience becomes one of its strongest qualities, allowing the player to slowly sink into a world that looks like it should be safe but keeps hinting that something is fundamentally off.

The art direction is immediately striking. Storybook villages glow with warm colors, forests feel hand-painted, and character designs lean into exaggerated fairy-tale silhouettes, but there is a subtle distortion to everything, as if the world has been remembered rather than observed directly. This gives each location a slightly unreal quality that perfectly supports the game’s themes. Even in moments of calm, there is a lingering sense that the world is fragile, and that fragility becomes more pronounced the deeper you go. Visual flourishes, small animations, and background details quietly reinforce the idea that this “ever after” is not as eternal or as perfect as it pretends to be.

Narratively, the game shines through its restraint. Instead of delivering heavy exposition, it relies on implication, environmental storytelling, and carefully written dialogue

that feels personal without being overly sentimental. The central idea—questioning what happens after a fairy tale is supposed to end—gives emotional weight to even small interactions. Characters feel like they are carrying histories they only half remember, and the writing captures that melancholy in a way that feels natural rather than forced. There is a softness to the dialogue, but also an undercurrent of unease that slowly grows into something more poignant and reflective.

Gameplay blends light puzzle-solving, exploration, and gentle platforming in a way that never feels punishing. The mechanics are accessible, but they are layered with enough variation to stay engaging, and the pacing is tuned to encourage curiosity rather than urgency. Instead of pushing the player forward with constant objectives, the game invites wandering, observing, and lingering in spaces that might otherwise be passed by. This creates a rhythm that feels almost meditative, making moments of narrative tension stand out more sharply when

they do appear.

What truly elevates Escape from Ever After is how all of its elements work together to create a cohesive emotional experience. The music drifts between delicate melodies and subtle, uneasy tones, often doing as much storytelling as the dialogue itself. Sound design reinforces the sense of a living, breathing world, with small audio cues that make even quiet moments feel intentional and meaningful. By the time the game reaches its more emotionally charged sequences, the player has already been gently conditioned to care about this strange, fading fairy-tale reality.

Overall, Escape from Ever After doesn’t try to overwhelm with spectacle or complexity. Instead, it succeeds by being thoughtful, atmospheric, and quietly moving. It feels like a reflective walk through a storybook that has begun to question its own happily-everafter, offering an experience that lingers in the mind long after the screen fades to black.

CliCK to

28 yEARS Later: The bone Temple feels less like a sequel and more like a reckoning — a grim, echoing chamber in which everything the franchise has been whispering about for decades finally roars out in full voice. It is a film steeped in rot, memory, and moral exhaustion, one that understands that the true horror of this world is no longer the infected themselves, but what prolonged survival has done to the uninfected. From its opening moments, the film establishes an atmosphere of decayed reverence, as if civilization has not simply fallen but has been ritually buried, and the survivors now live among the monuments of their own failures. The titular bone Temple, an eerie megastructure formed from scavenged remains, shattered cathedrals, and macabre folk architecture, becomes the symbolic heart of the film — a place that feels at once religious, defensive, and grotesquely beautiful, embodying humanity’s desperate need to impose meaning on endless catastrophe.

The film’s pacing is patient but relentless, letting dread accumulate rather than explode, and when violence does arrive, it is brutal, fast, and disturbingly intimate. There is no romanticism here, no heroic gloss — every gunshot, every sprint through ruined corridors, every desperate decision feels like it costs

something spiritual as well as physical. The infected are more terrifying than ever, but they are also strangely tragic, moving through the world like corrupted echoes of people who once loved, hoped, and belonged. Meanwhile, the survivors are portrayed with a raw moral ambiguity that gives the story its sharpest edge: they lie, they exploit, they sacrifice strangers, and sometimes they do so with terrifying calm, all while convincing themselves it is “necessary.”

What makes The Bone Temple especially powerful is its sense of thematic maturity. This is not a film about the outbreak — it is about what comes after survival has become routine, after fear has settled into habit, and after ethics have eroded under the pressure of scarcity. It asks uncomfortable questions about what it means to rebuild, what kind of society is worth saving, and whether the instinct to form new hierarchies and cult-like structures is simply

another virus of the mind. The visuals reinforce this beautifully: crumbling urban landscapes are intertwined with twisted sanctuaries, ritual markings, and communal spaces that feel halfhopeful and half-unhinged, as if humanity is rebuilding not just cities, but belief systems born from trauma.

By the time the final act unfolds, the film has quietly transformed into something almost mythic, a dark fable about survival becoming identity, and identity becoming dogma. Its ending refuses easy closure, leaving the audience with a lingering sense that this world will continue to decay, adapt, and reinvent itself in ways that are both horrifying and hauntingly human. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is bleak, unsettling, and deeply thoughtful — a sequel that doesn’t simply raise the stakes, but deepens the scars, proving that in this universe, time does not heal wounds; it fossilizes them into monuments.

Tech and Taff

Apple’s next iPhone trick — the “vanishing” notch (again)

NOW then, butt, gather round. There’s a fresh leak doing the rounds about Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 range and something they’re calling the iPhone Air 2 — and it’s all about the front of the phone: the bit you stare at for hours while telling yourself you’re “just checking the weather”.

Word is these models have entered a sample production stage — that’s where suppliers start producing early batches so Apple can test displays, refine parts, and make sure everything behaves itself before the big launch.

120Hz for the “normal” iPhone? About time, mun

Here’s the bit most people will actually notice: the base iPhone 18 is tipped to get a 6.27-inch LTPO display running at 120Hz. In real life, that means scrolling and animations should look smoother — the phone feels more “buttery” instead of a little bit clunky.

The iPhone Air 2, meanwhile, is rumoured to come with a 6.55inch 120Hz LTPO display — so bigger than the standard model, but not as massive as the biggest Pro.

And for both of those, the expectation is that Dynamic Island sticks around — that pillshaped cut-out Apple turned into a “feature”, whether you aske for it or not.

The Pro models: goodbye Dynamic Island, hello tiny hole

Now here’s where it gets properly interesting. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are being tipped to ditch Dynamic Island altogether.

Instead, Apple is said to be moving the Face ID sensors under the display. The selfie camera would still need a visible opening, so you’d likely get a punch-hole design — a small dot rather than a big pill. Less screen chopped out, more screen for you. Lovely stuff.

The sizes being talked about are:

iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro: around 6.27-inch

iPhone 18 Pro Max: around 6.86-inch

The bigger plan: a “perfect screen” iPhone for 2027?

The leak chatter also points to a longer game. Some reports suggest Apple is working towards a special model in 2027 for the 20th anniversary of the iPhone — a handset with no notch, no island, no hole. Just a full, uninterrupted slab of display that curves into the edges like something out of a sci-fi film.

If that’s the destination, then under-display Face ID on the iPhone 18 Pro would be a stepping stone — a half-way house on the road to the “perfect screen”.

Professor’s verdict

If Apple really does bring 120Hz to the standard iPhone 18, that’s the sort of upgrade people will feel every single day. And if the Pro models drop the Dynamic Island, you can bet your last Welsh cake the marketing will go into overdrive — “the most immersive iPhone ever”, like they haven’t said it every year since the dinosaurs.

But fair play: a cleaner screen is a cleaner screen. Now all they’ve got to do is keep it reliable, keep Face ID fast, and stop the price climbing like it’s training for Pen y Fan.

Until then, butt — enjoy the rumours. They’re often the best part of iPhone season anyway.

Charity medium night to raise funds for Cancer Research Wales in Milford Haven

A CHARITy evening with an international spiritualist medium is set to take place in Milford Haven later this month, with all proceeds going to Cancer Research Wales.

The event will be held on Friday (Jan 16) at Milford Haven Rugby Club, and will feature a live demonstration by Lee Mills, who is described by organisers as an internationally recognised spiritualist medium.

Organised in support of Cancer Research Wales, the evening aims to raise funds for cancer research carried out in Wales. Organisers have

confirmed that all proceeds raised on the night will be donated to the charity. Doors open at 6:30pm, with the event starting at 7:00pm. Tickets are priced at £12, and the evening is a ticket-only event.

Those wishing to attend are advised to book in advance. Tickets can be available by contacting Sara on 07817 677632.

Organisers said the event offers local residents the chance to enjoy an evening of entertainment while also supporting a Welsh charity dedicated to funding life-saving cancer research.

HOROSCOPES

Season three of Tell Me Lies feels like the show finally exhaling everything it has been holding in since the beginning, and in doing so it becomes its most devastating, intimate and uncomfortably honest chapter yet. The story slips back into the lives of Lucy, Stephen and their orbit as if no time has passed, but the emotional temperature is instantly different, heavier, as though every lie told in previous seasons has settled into the bones of these characters. What makes this season so gripping is not simply that Lucy and Stephen are once again drawn into each other’s gravity, but that the show is now brave enough to sit inside the long-term consequences of that gravity rather than treating it as an endless cycle of breakup and reunion. Their connection still crackles with the same dangerous chemistry, but it is no longer romanticised in quite the same way; instead, it feels exposed, raw and increasingly suffocating, like watching two people who know exactly how to hurt each other and keep choosing to stay close anyway. Lucy is more aware of herself now, more articulate about her own damage, yet still heartbreakingly vulnerable to Stephen’s pull, while Stephen feels less like a charming villain and more like

a study in control, insecurity and emotional manipulation that becomes genuinely chilling the longer you sit with him. The writing allows their conversations to stretch and linger, often saying more in what is left unsaid than in what is spoken, and the show’s quiet moments — a look held too long, a message typed and erased, a late-night drive with nowhere to go — carry as much weight as the explosive confrontations.

beyond the central relationship, season three also deepens the world around them in a way that makes the story feel fuller and more consequential. bree, Pippa, Wrigley and the rest of the group are no longer just witnesses to Lucy and Stephen’s chaos but active participants in the emotional ecosystem it creates. Old secrets resurface in ways that force real reckonings, and friendships that once felt solid begin to fracture under the strain of things left unsaid. The show becomes increasingly interested in how people justify their choices to themselves, how they rewrite their own narratives to survive guilt, and how easy it is to become complicit in someone else’s cruelty simply by staying silent. New faces are introduced not as easy antagonists but as mirrors,

Season 3

reflecting different versions of Lucy and Stephen’s patterns and showing how these cycles can repeat, shift and evolve. This makes the season feel less like a single toxic love story and more like a wider exploration of emotional dependence, power dynamics and the ways young adults can mistake intensity for intimacy.

Stylistically, the season leans into a darker, more introspective mood, with a slower, more deliberate pace that allows scenes to breathe and discomfort to linger. There is a sense of inevitability running through the narrative, as though the characters are walking down paths they recognise but still cannot bring themselves to leave, and that tension between awareness and action becomes one of the show’s most painful and effective through-lines. Moments that might have played as shocking twists in earlier seasons are now allowed to unfold more quietly, which somehow makes them land harder, because you feel the emotional aftershocks long after the scene ends. by the time the later episodes arrive, it becomes clear that Tell Me Lies is no longer just interested in who ends up with whom, but in what it actually costs to stay, to leave, to forgive and to forget.

give yourself a moment’s peace. Mind you, the issue is probably something along the lines of which guilty pleasure to give in to for the next 24 hours. You’ll please excuse the rest of us if we’re not quite as sympathetic to your plight as we might usually be.

CANCER

A certain person you’ve spent a whole lot of time with lately is making sounds like they’re interested in being more than just friends, and you’re not sure what to do. You’ve had your share of relationships, but there’s something interesting going on here. You’re thinking you may actually have something new. The real test, of course, is to see if you can spend time together comfortably without feeling the need to keep filling up the air with constant conversation. Try it out.

LEO At the moment, you still can’t bear the thought of leaving your home, not unless it’s absolutely necessary, and fortunately, right now, it’s not. If you don’t want to spend any time out there in the outside world, don’t try to force yourself. You have the right to hibernate every now and then, and for the next day or so, you should lay claim to it proudly. Anyone who doesn’t seem to understand really doesn’t know you as well as they think they do.

VIRGO

There’s no doubt about it. All that tapping and fidgeting? Face it: you’re restless, and you don’t know what to do about it. No matter what you thought you were after just doesn’t seem to be what you’re really after any more. You might be able to continue distracting yourself for a while, but until you can discover what it is you really need to make yourself happy, you’ll keep on tapping.

LIBRA

A loved one who’s been a bit worried about you recently is about to say or do something that will let you know it’s finally time to give in and allow them the honor of your presence. You may have stayed away because you were worried that they might be growing a bit too possessive, even though you’ve held them at arm’s length for some time now. Let it go now.

SCORPIO

Oh, stop complaining. We’re all entitled to our place in the spotlight every now and then. It’s now officially your turn. If you really must have some privacy, possibly due to the attention of a certain someone (attention you’d rather not share with the masses), isn’t there some kind of excuse you can make up to explain your untimely exit? Sure there is. Don’t you have to feed the cat?

SAGITTARIUS

You’ve never been shy about voicing your opinions about politics and religion, but at this particular moment it’s going to come even more easily to you. Once you warn those who know and love you, they’ll know what to do. They’ll just avoid bringing up any touchy subjects. Easy. For others, though, this might come to them as a bit of a shock. A big shock. Very big. Let’s just say you should let them know and then hope they’re on your team. Good luck.

CAPRICORN

You can’t fight it, so try to take an active part in the events as they unfold. Your best bet is to be open to change now. A simple adjustment in attitude is pretty much all it will take to get with the program. You work best with a mentor, but if you have to be on your own, try to follow the instructions as closely as possible. Tonight, your dreams may have significance, but analyzing the symbolism won’t be easy.

AQUARIUS

You’ll be wearing your emotions on your sleeve today, so they’ll be the first thing others see when they see you. Fortunately, the heavens have arranged for you to be in a wonderful mood, right along with your partner or

PISCES

BADGER: A SEASON FOR CANT AND COMPROMISE

WE APPROACH the business end of the civic year, when Pembrokeshire County Council (and other Welsh local authorities) set their Council Tax for 2026/7.

There is extra spice in this year’s exercise. Elections to the Welsh Parliament take place in May, and Labour councils and councillors will be keen to spread the Gospel According to St Eluned, that everything is going swimmingly and only her party can stop Wales being turned into an exclusively Welsh-speaking or violently racist gulag west of Offa’s Dyke.

Across South and East Wales, Labour councils will do their best to make it seem as though twenty-seven years of devolution have not left Wales as an economic, social, and publicservice basket case. In Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, and Gwynedd, Plaid Cymru will preach to the converted in the faint hope its records there will ensure electoral success in areas where being a red rosette-wearing donkey is usually a sure pathway to political influence. Then there are the tricky bits of Wales, where party politics happens without party labels.

Like Pembrokeshire.

Here’s an uncontroversial proposition: Pembrokeshire, like Wales overall, is essentially small ‘c’ conservative. Our county’s mainly older and pale electorate has little patience for so-called “progressive” politics.

That tendency is reflected broadly in the makeup of the current Council. The majority of council members hold socially conservative and, typically, politically conservative views. That does not mean that the Conservative Party or its policies dominate County Hall. However, it does mean the Council generally does not take a leftward stance.

However, the County Council’s Cabinet does lean to the political left, albeit not in the rabidly socialist way that its detractors would have you believe. It’s more a question of leftward sentiment, even with Mao Tse Miller as Deputy Leader. And, let’s be honest, readers, Paul Miller is more Captain Haddock than a Great Helmsman. Even the presence of Marc Tierney, St Eluned’s representative on Earth, in the Council Cabinet does not nudge the

political dial much further left.

The above observations lead Badger to conclude that those advocating for a relatively low Council Tax increase this year will be knocking on a door that’s ajar.

Now, as ever, there’ll be nutters knocking around shouting that Council Tax either should not increase or be cut. Let’s discount the cloud-cuckooland headbangers. They’re like Violet Elizabeth Bott in the Just William TV series. They’ll scream and scream and scream until they’re sick, but their social media vomit will wash away.

Then there’ll be the economic and fiscal illiterates who think that Council Tax should only rise at the rate of Consumer Price Inflation. Badger has pointed this out before: the cost of delivering council services has risen and continues to rise faster than “regular” inflation. Increasing Council Tax in line with inflation is a sure recipe for huge cuts to critical budgets (education, social care, etc).

That leaves a band of options. At the upper end is the sort of one-off rise essential to preserve the status quo and meet future demand. However, as no one will propose an 18-22% rise, we can knock that on the head. At the lower end is the sort of token increase, say 5%. Anyone suggesting that may

as well propose an inflation-indexed increase, as the difference between the two will be cutting services to the marrow or to the bone.

The middleground, such as it is, lies between a 7% and 12% increase in Council Tax. There is an important psychological barrier at 9.9%, which means that, whether or not the measure is objectively essential, a double-digit increase is unlikely to pass a vote in the Council chamber. Any Council Tax increase that passes a vote of all council members will be a compromise. It will not be enough to meet existing budgetary pressures; it will kick the can down the road on tough decisions and make cuts that buy time without achieving more than annoying voters.

Years of having the lowest Council Tax in Wales have left Pembrokeshire more vulnerable than comparable local authorities. Pembrokeshire’s neighbouring authorities had a layer of fat in their systems that meant that, when local government budgets were squeezed, their service profile was less adversely affected than Pembrokeshire’s. Moreover, Pembrokeshire’s demographic makeup puts it under greater budgetary pressure than other local authorities. On the one hand, paler and older is a comfort for those seeking a white

homeland way out west. On the other hand, the old are expensive to care for and tend to be economically inactive.

Successive administrations have largely ignored the bleeding obvious in the hope that something will turn up. There’ve been too many big ideas and insufficient attention to the financial challenges posed by a rapidly ageing population living longer in ill health and a shrinking working age tax base. That’s not solely the local authority’s fault. Those who fund it have focused too much on superficial measures rather than on providing the Council with the funds it needs to deliver core services. A transport hub and active travel links are nobody’s priority, other than some box-ticking imbecile’s in Cardiff Bay or Whitehall.

The current administration is placing considerable reliance on the green and blue energy potential of the Celtic Sea and hopes that a freeport will generate sufficient economic activity to have a beneficial knock-on effect on Pembrokeshire’s public finances. The same claims have been trotted out in different forms for twenty-odd years, and Badger is still waiting for his slice of pie in the sky.

The pressures cut several ways: the Conservatives can’t afford to be a dog in a manger if they want to return both Paul Davies and Sam Kurtz to the Welsh Parliament. The IPG will not be keen to shore up an administration in which Labour has a significant say. Reform-leaning councillors will not want to frighten away voters by proposing crackpot changes. The administration is stuck, relying on loose alliances and support on individual issues to advance its budget and agenda.

Skirmishes around a new Council Tax rate will set the tone for the Senedd elections. Labour has nothing to boast about. Reform has nothing relevant to say about Pembrokeshire - or Wales. The Conservatives must tread carefully not to queer the pitch for May’s vote. The IPG will perform the honest broker role, but after last year, there are limits to how that can play out. There will be heat but little light and, in the end, there’ll be a grudging, somewhat grubby, and resentful compromise.

No change there, then, readers.

a p embrok S hire p er S pective

by editor tom sinclair

We’ve been here before, and We can find a Way out again

FROM the baltic to the Red Sea, from war zones to markets, from elections to energy bills, it can feel as if the world has taken on a permanent grimace. And at home, in britain, the national mood is hardly sunnier. Trust has drained from politics. Respect for institutions has thinned. The media is alternately scorned and weaponised. Even the idea that we share enough of a common story to muddle through together, once the quiet underpinning of british life, can feel like it is fraying at the seams.

That atmosphere has a familiar echo. Not because the problems are identical, but because the feeling is. Older readers may remember another era when Britain seemed stuck in a rut of decline, rancour and anxiety, when we argued about everything, agreed on almost nothing, and suspected the system itself was no longer up to the job.

The point is not nostalgia, or pretending that life was harder then so people should stop complaining now. Misery is not a competitive sport. Each generation has its own storms. But there is a useful truth in remembering that earlier periods of national gloom did not last forever. We did not solve everything. We did not avoid mistakes. But we did, slowly and imperfectly, find ways to steady the ship.

So the question for the mid 2020s is not how do we return to a golden age, because there was not one, but how do we move forward from where we actually are.

One reason we struggle to answer that is that political memory is short. Whole decades get filed away as if they were irrelevant to the present. When you are young, the past is a fog of names

and half understood crises. Later, you realise those years shaped the country you inherited, its habits, its arguments, its blind spots and its strengths.

Britain in a previous age of upheaval was a place where old assumptions were collapsing. The country was renegotiating its place in the world. It was wrestling with economic change that left communities battered and resentful. It lived with real security threats and a constant drumbeat of fear. It was a Britain of loud certainties and deep divides, of powerful media barons, of political tribalism, of institutions under strain.

So far, so familiar.

But something important happened in the years that followed. Slowly, reluctantly, politics adjusted to reality. The country did not magically become united, but it did begin to regain a sense that governing was possible, that compromise was not weakness, and that stubbornness was not strength.

The central lesson is not that any one leader had all the answers, or that any particular decade got it right. The lesson is simpler, and more useful. When a nation is stuck, cooperation matters more than purity.

A politics that exists only to win arguments becomes a politics that cannot solve problems. And a public that treats every compromise as betrayal ends up with leaders who would rather posture than govern. The result is paralysis dressed up as principle.

You can see the danger of that closer to home too. Wales has always been good at arguing, as most healthy democracies are, but recent years have left people weary. Whether it is the state of the NHS, the long running squeeze on local government, or the endless

parties cooperating on reforms that outlast any one government. It can mean constitutional housekeeping, standards in public life, and basic competence being put ahead of daily point scoring. It can mean accepting that a fragmented electorate requires grown up coalitions of thought, if not always coalitions of government.

There will be those who say this is naïve, that the country is too divided, the incentives too toxic, the anger too deep. Perhaps. But the deeper truth is that we do not get to opt out. A democratic society either learns to cooperate, or it slowly becomes ungovernable.

waiting for infrastructure decisions that never quite arrive, there is a growing sense that too much energy is spent on blame and not enough on building.

In Pembrokeshire, that feeling can be sharper because the distance between decision makers and daily life is not theoretical. When a hospital service is under pressure, it is not an abstract policy debate, it is a longer drive, a longer wait, a family rearranging work and childcare, a community feeling the strain. When public transport is thin, it is young people struggling to take jobs, older people missing appointments, and whole villages feeling cut off. When politics becomes theatre, rural and coastal places often pay the price first because they are easiest to overlook.

There is a temptation, when trust is low, to sneer from the sidelines, to turn politics into a spectator sport where the only aim is to spot hypocrisy, mock failure, and confirm your own side’s righteousness. That mood is understandable. But it is also dangerous, because it rewards the least serious people in the room. If the only applause comes from the grandstand, sooner or later nobody volunteers to enter the arena, or only the ones with the thickest skin and the thinnest sense of responsibility.

What Britain needs now is not a saviour and not a slogan. It needs a willingness to do the unglamorous work that democratic renewal requires.

That starts with a basic shift in instincts.

Work with people you disagree with on the things you can agree on. Not because it feels good, but because the alternative is endless stalemate.

And yes, that can mean uncomfortable alliances. It can mean

That does not mean pretending differences do not matter. They do. It means recognising that, in a period of national stress, the job is to stop the bleeding first. If politics cannot deliver basics, functioning public services, a credible economy, a sense of fairness, a grip on corruption and incompetence, then everything else becomes harder, including the debates people care about most passionately.

The strange comfort in our current moment is that the despair itself is not unprecedented. We have had periods when Britain felt brittle, angry and stuck. We did not escape by shouting louder. We escaped by changing course, sometimes through painful decisions, sometimes through overdue reforms, sometimes simply by learning what the electorate would and would not tolerate.

We are not trapped in permanent decline. But we are trapped if we insist that only our side can be trusted, only our tribe is moral, and only our version of the future is legitimate.

This is the quiet truth that rarely makes it into the daily noise. Politics is still the only tool we have to organise a shared life. You can curse it, and you would often be right, but you cannot replace it with cynicism and expect the country to thrive.

We should demand better of politicians, and we should demand better of ourselves as citizens. Less purity, more seriousness. Less theatre, more repair work. Less grandstanding, more grit.

Because the arena matters. And if Britain is to find its way out of this sour mood, as it has done before, it will be by people who are willing to step into it, work with others, make mistakes, and keep going anyway.

T RUMP , G REENLAND AND THE BIG UGLY SCRAMBLE FOR THE WORLD

Right. Gather round. Stephen Seagull is perched up high on the Milford Haven docks, eyes sharp, belly empty, and the news today is giving off a right pong.

Because Donald Trump is making noises about taking over Greenland. Greenland. A great big frozen lump belonging to Denmark’s lot, who are meant to be mates with us through NATO. Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin is still trying to gobble up Ukraine like it’s a warm pasty and he’s not chewed since Christmas.

Even if Trump never actually flaps his wings and does it, the point is this. Something’s changed. The grown ups have left the room and the playground bullies are back. It’s a new era, and it’s a messy one. A post western world, the clever humans call it. Stephen calls it this.

A GREAT b IG INTERNATIONAL b UN FIGHT.

Now, some very serious humans in Oxford have done a big poll. Twenty one countries. Lots of questions. Lots of miserable answers. They have been doing it every year since Russia went in properly in 2022, so they can see the mood getting darker and darker, like the sky over the Haven when a storm’s coming.

Back in 2022, America and Europe were united. Outraged. Shocked. Making speeches. Slapping sanctions on Russia. Big West sticking together.

But other powerful places, China, India, Turkey, kept doing business as usual. They carried on buying and selling. So Russia’s economy kept clinging on, because the West is not the only buyer in the market any more.

So it was already a post western world, even then. The West was shouting, but the rest of the world was shrugging.

N OW COMES T RUMP AGAIN .

And Trump 2.0, as the humans call it, has made it worse, because now there isn’t even a coherent West. America’s not acting like the

captain of the ship. America’s acting like a bloke in the pub who wants to flip the table because he’s bored. Trump’s people are not pretending it’s about shared values either. They are talking about strength. Force. Power. The sort of talk that sounds a lot more like Putin than any American president the West has relied on since the war.

E UROPE HAS NOTICED

Here’s a bit that made Stephen drop his imaginary chip into the sea. Fewer than one in five people in the EU countries surveyed see the United States as an ally now. Only about one in four Britons do. In Ukraine it’s even lower. People still think the US is a necessary partner, but not an ally. Like a mate you ring when you need help moving a fridge, and you already know he might not turn up.

A ND IT IS NOT JUST E UROPE

The poll suggests more people around the world now see America and Europe as different. Not one single West. Not one single block. The old idea of the West as a united club is fading.

S O WHAT DO WE DO , EH

The clever humans say the worst thing we can do is keep whinging about the lost rules based international system while picking

and choosing when the rules matter, and then grovelling at Trump like a dog hoping for scraps.

But we also do not want to become like Trump or Putin. We do not want to start grabbing and threatening and stomping about.

So they say Europe needs a new kind of internationalism. Faster. More flexible. Harder edged. Less obsession with process. More focus on results.

S TEPHEN TRANSLATES THAT INTO DOC k LANGUAGE .

Stop flapping about paperwork while the fish gets stolen.

They say Europe is already doing bits of it for Ukraine. Moving quicker. Making coalitions. Trying to work out how to support Ukraine even if US support weakens.

Now, Greenland.

First rule, Stephen says, is simple. You listen to Greenland and Denmark, because they have elected governments, and that is the difference between democracies and bullies. You do not let some loud outsider point at your island and shout MINE.

Denmark and some NATO allies have already sent more troops. Greenland and Denmark have been meeting in Washington with senior Americans. But the disagreement is still there. Trump is unpredictable, and could get worse if his problems at home grow.

S O WHAT ’ S THE ANSWER

One idea is a big visit. Leaders from Germany, France, Britain, Denmark, and Canada all turning up in Greenland together. Strong pictures. Strong message. If they can fly to Kyiv, they can fly to Nuuk. Trump understands television better than treaties.

Another idea is to have visible European and Canadian officers stationed there. Not to threaten anyone. To show commitment. To show resolve. A quiet presence that says this place is not up for auction. Greenland’s prime minister has also said that if Greenland has to choose, it chooses Denmark and it chooses the EU. So the EU should back that up with proper money and proper support, and not at a snail’s pace where it all starts in 2028 after seventeen rounds of meetings.

And there’s a bigger thing behind it. Europe is likely heading towards a future with customised relationships with neighbours. The UK. Ukraine. Turkey. Canada. So why not Greenland too, if it ever wants that.

Then comes the grim bit. Europe should also quietly look at what economic responses it could use if the unthinkable happened. Not screaming about it on telly. Just having plans. Letting America know, discreetly, that a military grab would come with consequences.

Because this is what the new world looks like. Strongmen probing. Alliances wobbling. Rules getting tested.

And another gloomy finding from that poll is this. Europeans are pessimists. Nearly half don’t think the EU can deal on equal terms with big powers like the US and China.

Stephen Seagull says Europe needs to stop acting like the victim at the buffet.

Stand tall. Move faster. Be practical. Show strength without becoming nasty.

Otherwise you wake up one day and find the biggest birds have eaten all the chips, and they are looking at your plate next.

MINE! MINE! MINE!

RSPCA Cymru welcomes ‘huge step’ as consultation launched on phasing out caged hens

Uk-WIDE plans would ban new cage systems from 2027 and end all enriched cages by 2032, as charity urges public to respond

A UK-wide public consultation on proposals to phase out cages for laying hens has been launched, with animal welfare charity RSPCA Cymru describing the move as a major step towards a cage-free future in Wales.

The consultation, led by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and being run jointly with the Welsh Government, Scottish Government and Northern Ireland Executive, is seeking views on reforms affecting laying hens, pullets (young hens reared for egg production) and breeder layers.

Under the proposals, the building or first-time use of any new enriched “colony” cage systems would be banned from 2027. The consultation also proposes ending the use of all such cage systems by 2032.

In addition, the plans would extend the ban to all birds currently kept in conventional “battery” cages by removing the

existing exemption for smaller flocks of 350 birds or fewer.

RSPCA Cymru said the announcement was particularly significant for Wales, which it noted has one of the highest proportions of free-range hen flocks globally, and is urging the public to respond during the eight-week consultation period.

David Bowles, the RSPCA’s head of public affairs, said: “The announcement of this longawaited consultation is a huge step forward for animal welfare in Wales… We are urging the public to make their voices heard during this eight-week consultation period so we can move closer to a cage-free future for farmed animals across the UK.

“Every year across the UK, millions of farmed animals are kept in cages, unable to express their natural behaviours and experiencing an unimaginable amount of suffering. Seventythree per cent of the British public oppose the use of cages for hens, and we have always been clear: cages cannot be part of British farming any longer.”

The RSPCA says caged systems remain in widespread

use, with around ten million hens still kept in enriched cages across the UK. The charity argues that, despite being marketed as an improvement, enriched cages provide only a limited increase in space compared with the former battery cages, and still prevent birds from fully expressing natural behaviours such as dustbathing and foraging.

The charity said its campaigning on the use of cages dates back to the 1960s, and noted that its RSPCA Assured welfare standards already prohibit cages on certified farms.

RSPCA Cymru also linked the consultation to the Senedd election due to take place in

May, saying it is pressing political parties to include stronger animal welfare commitments in their manifestos. The charity’s priorities include a prohibition on enriched cages for laying hens, and restrictions on other confinement systems, including afarrowing crates used in pig farming.

Mr Bowles added that between five and six million pigs reared for slaughter are born in farrowing crates each year in the UK, a practice not permitted under RSPCA welfare standards. He said the charity would continue campaigning for wider reforms, and expects further consultation later this year.

Council refuses to reveal cost of replacing roof on nine-year-old Tenby school

A NEWLy built Pembrokeshire school is facing a full roof replacement less than a decade after opening, with Pembrokeshire County Council refusing to disclose how much the work will cost the public.

Tenby Church in Wales VC School, a 3–11 English-medium primary school with an additional Learning Resource Centre provision, was completed in 2016. However, just a few years later, reports of water ingress began to emerge, with the situation worsening to the point where more than 500 temporary supports are now holding up parts of the roof.

The council has confirmed that it holds multiple condition and engineering reports relating to the roof dating back to January 2020, and that the issue has been discussed at Cabinet level on more than one occasion.

However, in a response to a

Freedom of Information request, Pembrokeshire County Council has refused to disclose the total estimated cost of repairs, temporary works, or a planned full roof replacement, citing commercial sensitivity.

The council has also declined to release any correspondence between itself, the Welsh Government and the school’s governing body relating to warranties, insurance claims, or liability for the roof defects, again relying on exemptions under the Freedom of Information Act.

The Herald received the FOI response on Friday, January 9, 2026. In it, the council confirmed that while reports and assessments exist — and have been presented to Cabinet — key financial and contractual details are being withheld from public view.

The Herald previously reported

in November that Cabinet members approved a £75,000 feasibility budget to explore options for tackling the ongoing roof leaks, including the possibility of a complete roof replacement. At that time, councillors were told that repeated water ingress had resulted in a weakening of the structure and components within the roof construction.

As part of urgent health and safety measures, the council installed 510 ‘acro’ props to support vulnerable roof areas and fully closed the Early Years and Playgroup wing. In 2024, the school’s solar photovoltaic array was also removed on engineer advice to reduce loading on the roof.

A Cabinet report stated that the favoured option is the replacement of the entire roof, a course of action that would require a comprehensive decant strategy

to relocate pupils while works are carried out.

Presenting the findings of the feasibility study, the Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language, Cllr Guy Woodham, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, telling members that the wellbeing of learners and staff was the council’s priority and that efforts would be made to move forward as quickly as possible.

Despite those assurances, the council has not confirmed whether it expects to recover costs through warranties, insurance, or thirdparty liability, or whether the financial burden could ultimately fall on the public purse.

In its FOI response, the authority said releasing cost information or correspondence could prejudice commercial interests and negatively affect negotiations with contractors or other third parties. It concluded that there was a greater public interest in withholding the information than in disclosure.

The decision is likely to fuel anger among parents and residents, with many questioning how a school building less than ten years old has deteriorated to the point of requiring hundreds of emergency supports and a potential full roof replacement — and why the true cost of that failure is being kept from public view.

Pembrokeshire County Council has not said when, or if, the total cost of the works will be made public.

£20 million boost for school and college maintenance

Schools and colleges throughout Wales are gearing up for gold stars thanks to an additional £20 million funding allocation to support essential capital repairs and maintenance.

The funding, which is part of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, will support large scale maintenance works such as the replacement of roofs, window systems, heating and ventilation systems, and electrical works.

The Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme has already rebuilt or refurbished 20% of the school estate over the last decade, and the funding for capital maintenance during 2025-26 now totals £50 million.

The Welsh Government’s total 2025-26 investment

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

allocation through the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme is now £391 million – the highest annual investment since commencing in 2014.

creating more sustainable learning environments that are cheaper to run and better for the environment.

“Maintaining our schools and colleges in good condition is essential for providing the best learning environments for our young people,” commented the cabinet secretary for education, Lynne Neagle.

The programme also assists Wales’s climate goals as all maintenance works funded through this allocation must help reduce energy use and carbon emissions. The funding aids improvements such as better insulation, efficient heating and

energy-efficient windows

“Since 2018, we have invested £314 million in maintenance for schools and colleges across Wales. This additional £20 million will help local authorities and colleges address maintenance needs and demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our education estate is fit for purpose whilst driving forward targets for a net zero carbon Education Estate in Wales.”

Major farm development back before planners

A PREVIOUSLy

backed call against officer recommendations for the relocation of a Pembrokeshire farm diversification scheme which packages and distributes specialist medical equipment across Europe will again be considered by councillors.

At the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County council’s planning committee, members backed a call by Mr Van Der Spoel for the relocation and expansion of an existing farm diversification business into an existing agricultural building at Castle Villa, Hayscastle despite an officer recommendation for refusal.

Back in July a similar application by Mr Van Der Spoel, through agent Harries Planning Design Management, was refused by planning officers.

A supporting statement for that application said the Dutch-born applicant, together with his wife and adult daughter ran the farm diversification business packing specialist medical supplies at their 135-acre sheep farm.

It added: “The business run from this site is FRIO ASTRID EURO Ltd, which has a franchise agreement with FRIO UK. This business has been run from Castle Villa since its incorporation in 1998. The business was initially run from the stable building on the

farmyard at Castle Villa.

“The business set-up involves receiving stock from FRIO UK in Wolfscastle, packaging orders and distributing the stock to seven Western Europe countries.”

Wolfscastle-based FRIO produces the world’s first patented insulin cooling wallet which keeps insulin and other temperature-sensitive medicines cool and safe.

The scheme for the business, said to have outgrown its current site, was previously refused by county planners on grounds including a lack of “robust evidence” to prove it couldn’t be sited within a nearby settlement or an allocated employment site, such as Haverfordwest.

Since then, an application

seeking to address the reasons for refusal was submitted, and, at the request of local member Cllr Mark Carter, a call for the scheme to be decided by full planning committee rather than delegated to officers was backed at the October meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning delegation panel.

The latest application is again, after its ‘minded to’ backing at the December meeting, recommended for refusal on similar grounds to previously at the January 13 planning meeting.

It has returned to the January committee for ratification after a ‘cooling off’ period, and, if backed then, will ultimately be decided by full council.

A report for members following the ‘minded to’ approval, warns: “Members should be aware that if they are ‘minded to’

approve the application on the basis of economic benefits and farm diversification, this is a consideration which can be applied to many other existing sites. This would have further consequences for the implementation of policies within the LDP and its delivery.”

It adds that, if it is backed again, it includes a condition, suggested by the agent, that: “Should the farm and business ever be operating by different individuals/companies, the use of this building by FRIO ASTRID must cease and be relocated should further planning permission not be obtained.

“This will be regulated by the submission of documents annually to demonstrate the farm and business remain under ownership by the same individual/ company.”

Welsh Lib Dems urge extension of rural fuel duty relief to Wales

THE WELSH Liberal Democrats have called on the Uk Government to extend the Rural Fuel Duty Relief scheme to rural parts of Wales, arguing that Welsh communities were excluded when the scheme was originally designed under a Conservative administration.

Speaking during a parliamentary debate this week, David Chadwick, the Welsh Liberal Democrats’ Westminster spokesperson, said the current structure of the scheme benefits rural areas in England and Scotland but leaves every part of rural Wales outside its scope.

Rural Fuel Duty Relief is designed to reduce fuel costs in sparsely populated areas, where motorists are estimated to spend around £800 more per year on fuel than those living in urban communities. Under the scheme, fuel retailers can claim a 5p-per-litre rebate on petrol and diesel, which is passed on to customers through lower prices at the pump.

Although Wales is among the most rural nations in the UK, no Welsh areas were included when the scheme was introduced more than a decade ago. As a result, drivers in rural Welsh communities continue to pay higher fuel prices than their counterparts in qualifying areas of England and Scotland.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats say this exclusion should now be addressed, and have proposed a

consultation to determine which areas in Wales would qualify for relief.

Counties including Powys, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Gwynedd have been identified by the party as likely beneficiaries.

The party has also renewed calls for the introduction of a Pumpwatch scheme, which would allow motorists to easily compare fuel prices and guard against unfair pricing. A similar scheme operates in Northern Ireland, where fuel prices are often among the lowest in the UK. The Liberal Democrats say the previous Government committed to introducing Pumpwatch but did not implement it before the end of the last Parliament.

However, the UK Government has previously argued that fuel duty policy must balance support for rural motorists with wider fiscal pressures, and has pointed to the temporary 5p fuel duty cut and freeze on duty rates as measures intended to help drivers nationwide. Ministers have also highlighted devolved responsibilities in Wales, noting that transport policy and broader rural support are shared between Westminster and the Welsh Government.

Commenting, Mr Chadwick said:

“People in rural Wales are being clobbered by sky-high fuel costs, yet they were deliberately excluded from a scheme designed to help rural

drivers elsewhere in the UK. That is fundamentally unfair.

“In Parliament this week, I challenged the Government on why rural communities in Wales are locked out of Rural Fuel Duty Relief while parts of England and Scotland benefit, purely because of the way the scheme was set up.

“Rural drivers should not be punished for where they live, and I will keep pressing for a fair deal for communities across rural Wales.”

The Herald has contacted the UK Government for comment on whether it plans to review the scope of the Rural Fuel Duty Relief scheme to include areas of Wales.

FUW Farmhouse Breakfast week returns for 2026

THE Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) will start the year on a tasty and charitable note with the return of their annual Farmhouse breakfast Week.

As part of the week, over 20 breakfast events will be held across the length and breadth of Wales, bringing rural communities together over a hearty meal while raising money for local and national charities. Last year, Farmhouse Breakfast Week raised over £21,000, including more than £13,500 for the FUW President’s charity, the Wales Air Ambulance.

This year, the week will also highlight the upcoming Senedd election in May, as the FUW urges the next Senedd and Welsh Government to provide stability, sustainability, and long-term support for Welsh family farms. A breakfast in Cardiff Bay, sponsored by Samuel Kurtz MS, will bring politicians and stakeholders together to discuss the future of farming in Wales.

The Farmhouse Breakfast Week will also provide farmers with the chance to learn more about the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) and the expert services and support the FUW offers locally as the scheme

moves from design to delivery.

Ahead of the start of the FUW Farmhouse Breakfast week, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: “January can be a challenging time for farmers, with short days, cold weather, and plenty to do on the farm. The Farmhouse Breakfast Week offers a perfect opportunity for farmers, friends, and our rural communities to come together, share the load, and enjoy a hearty breakfast.

“With the crucial Senedd election just months away, this year’s breakfast will also provide a platform to highlight the FUW’s key election priorities: stability, sustainability, and long-term support for Welsh family farms.

“There’s a warm welcome to everyone to join us - and we look forward to successful events in kitchens, community centres and cafes across Wales again this year, celebrating the best of local produce and raising funds for important charitable causes, including the Wales Air Ambulance charity.”

The week will once again be supported by FUW Insurance Services Ltd, recently named in the prestigious Insurance Age Top 100 UK Brokers list for 2025.

AS the new year gets underway, the Farmers’ Union of Wales is once again starting January on a positive - and tasty - note with the return of our annual Farmhouse breakfast Week.

FUW Insurance Services provides tailored insurance solutions for agricultural, commercial, and personal needs, from farm and smallholding cover to life, home, and motor insurance, with a focus on personalised local service across Wales. Their team works closely with specialist insurers to ensure farms, rural businesses, and individuals are properly protected, with profits reinvested back into supporting the Union’s work for Welsh farmers.

Ann Beynon OBE, Chair of FUW Insurance Services, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Farmhouse Breakfast Week once again this year. Rooted at the heart of rural communities, our business is proud to help bring people together to celebrate exceptional local Welsh produce, enjoy the company of friends and neighbours, and to explain how our services play a vital role in supporting rural businesses.

“The week perfectly showcases the strength and spirit of rural Wales – all over a plate of breakfast. We’re also incredibly grateful to the local producers and volunteers

For many farmers, January can be one of the toughest months of the year. The days are short, the weather is often against us, and the workload on the farm never really eases. That’s why Farmhouse Breakfast Week has become such a valued fixture in the rural calendar – an opportunity to pause, catch up with neighbours and friends, and enjoy a hearty breakfast made from the very best of Welsh produce.

This year, more than 20 breakfast events will be held across the length and breadth of Wales, from kitchens and community centres to cafés and livestock markets. As well as providing a muchneed opportunity to bring communities together, they also provide a chance to raise vital funds for good causes. Last year alone, Farmhouse Breakfast Week raised over £21,000 for local and national charities, including more than £13,500 for the FUW President’s charity, the Wales Air Ambulance.

With a Senedd election fast approaching in May, this year’s Farmhouse Breakfast Week also carries an important political message. The FUW will use the

opportunity to outline our key priorities for the next Senedd and Welsh Government: stability, sustainability, and long-term support for Welsh family farms. Farming needs certainty and clear direction, and these breakfasts provide a valuable platform for discussion at a crucial time.

One such event will take place in Cardiff Bay, kindly sponsored by Samuel Kurtz MS, bringing together politicians and stakeholders to talk about the future of farming in Wales. It’s vital that decisionmakers hear directly from farmers and understand the realities facing our industry.

The week will also give members the opportunity to learn more about the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), as it moves from design to delivery, and to find out more about the expert advice, support and local services the FUW provides to help members navigate the changes ahead.

There’s a warm welcome to everyone to join us again this year. We look forward to another successful Farmhouse Breakfast Week across Wales, celebrating local produce, supporting important charities, and bringing our communities together at the heart of winter. To find your local FUW breakfasts, visit our website or contact your local FUW county office.

The Kia PV5 wins ‘Best New Van’ at the inaugural 2026 Van Reviewer Awards

The kia PV5 has been named ‘best New Van’, picking up the top award at the inaugural Van Reviewer Awards and the vehicle’s first award this year.

Judges commented that the Kia PV5 stands out as the most significant new van of the year thanks to its cleansheet approach and Kia’s wider Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy. The PV5 is engineered to support multiple body sizes, types and conversions as well as digital services, the softwareled architecture underpins advanced connectivity, which will see over-the-air updates and seamless integration with fleet systems.

Furthermore, the electric drivetrain has already proven itself with a Guinness World Record, but it’s the attention to detail in producing a stunning debut commercial vehicle which has really got people talking, the judges added.

George Barrow, Editor of vanreviewer.co.uk, commented:

“The Kia PV5 has been designed from the groundup around electrification and software, underlining the forward-thinking nature of the whole PBV concept.

“To produce a van of this quality, and with such clarity of purpose, the first time of asking,

shows how seriously Kia has taken its entry into the light commercial vehicle market. The PV5 has impressed at every opportunity and the bar for competitors and future Kia vans has been set very high.”

RECORD SETTING

In September 2025, Kia set a new global benchmark with the PV5 Cargo, with George Barrow behind the wheel, earning a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the ‘greatest distance travelled by a light-duty battery-powered electric van with maximum payload on a single charge’. The all-electric PV5 Cargo covered 430.84 miles (693.38km) under real-world driving conditions while fully loaded, demonstrating its exceptional efficiency, capability, and practicality.

THE kIA PV5

The Kia PV5 Cargo is Kia’s first purpose-built electric light commercial vehicle (e-LCV), and marks the brand’s bold entry into the highly competitive and populated UK van market. Designed from the ground up, it is built on a new Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service

be eligible for the UK Electric Car Grant, reducing its cost by £1,500. On-the-road pricing for the PV5 Passenger starts from £32,995, excluding the grant.

In addition to the PV5 Cargo and PV5 Passenger, further PV5 variants will launch in the UK in the future; including Crew, Chassis Cab, and WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle).

DEDICATED PbV NETWORk

To launch the PV5 in the UK market, Kia has formed a brandnew network of dedicated PBV Centres to sell and service all Kia PBVs. The PBV Centres are the dedicated point of sale for all variants of PV5, including the PV5 Passenger, ensuring expert commercial vehicle knowledge and dedicated service support for all customers.

(E-GMP.S).

Keeping the buying process simple, the PV5 Cargo is initially offered in the UK with two trim levels; ‘Essential’ and ‘Plus’, and with the choice of a Standard Range 51.5kWh or Long Range 71.2kWh battery pack to offer a balance of single-charge range or payload. Prices start from £27,645 excluding VAT, and the PV5 Cargo is additionally available with the maximum Government Plug-in Van Grant, reducing the cost by £5,000.

In addition, the Kia PV5 Passenger is initially available with five seats, with further variants in the future. This model is one of Kia’s first vehicles to

MULTIPLE AWARD WINNER

The ‘Best New Van’ award from Van Reviewer joins a host of other awards the PV5 has won, despite only appearing in Kia PBV Centre showrooms in December 2025. The PV5 has been named the 2026 ‘Van of the Year’ by Electrifying. com, What Van?, Parkers and The Sun. Furthermore, the BBC TopGear.com Awards announced the PV5 Passenger as its ‘Family Car of the Year’. Topping its already notable awards achievements, the PV5 was named the outright ‘2026 International Van of the Year’ winner.

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Successful year for MINI: Strong sales increase in all regions

The MINI brand looks back on an extremely successful 2025. With a total volume of 288,290 vehicles, MINI achieved a significant sales increase of 17,7% compared to 2024 figures. Particularly impressive is the high demand for battery electric vehicles (bEVs): with 105,535 fully electric MINIs delivered in 2025 (+87,9%), the brand achieved a new record in electromobility, resulting in more than every third MINI sold worldwide being electric. In many markets, the share is significantly above 50%, such as Netherlands, Turkey, Sweden and China.

Jean-Philippe Parain, Head of the MINI brand, emphasizes: “MINI continuously increases the share of fully electric vehicles, thereby demonstrating its innovative strength and future orientation. Our strong volume growth across all regions in 2025 clearly reflects the exceptional appeal of the MINI model family. The updated iconic design, the sportiness, individuality and expanded electric offerings of the MINI brand have met customer expectations all around the globe.

A growth driver was the largest MINI model in the product portfolio, the MINI Countryman: with a 32,4 % share of the total MINI volume, it underlines the brand’s SUV expertise. The Countryman combines typical MINI driving pleasure with innovative design and high versatility – ideal for any outdoor challenge. In 2025, 93,305 units were sold worldwide (+15.2%); the fully electric Countryman achieved a sales growth of 81.8% compared to 2024.

Sub-brand John Cooper Works reaches record numbers

The sporty John Cooper Works

(JCW) sub-brand also set new standards in 2025: with 25,630 units sold, MINI JCW increased the sales volume by 59.5% and achieved a new sales record. The share of JCW vehicles reached 8.9% of the total MINI volume. In some markets, such as UK, Italy, Japan and Australia, the performance-enhanced MINI models reached their highest sales figures to date.

The MINI Cooper family

The traditional MINI Cooper family, consisting of the MINI Cooper 3-Door, the MINI Cooper 5-Door and the MINI

Convertible, recorded with 162,789 a sales increase of 10.3% compared to the previous year. The new generation of the MINI Cooper Convertible, only introduced in 2025, rounded off the model family with unique features. With 22,491 units sold, a sales growth of 18.4% was achieved. The MINI Cooper 5-Door impresses with typical brand-specific driving fun, increased space, and high functionality and recorded with 47,850 units a significant growth of 26.5% compared to 2024. 2026 starts with the new MINI Paul Smith Edition Starting in 2026, the MINI Cooper

3-Door, MINI Cooper 5-Door, and MINI Cooper Convertible – both electric and combustion engine versions –will be available in the new MINI Paul Smith Edition. This edition combines the unmistakable style of the British designer Paul Smith with the playful, optimistic and independent spirit of the MINI brand. Following the successful collaborations “MINI STRIP” (2021) and “MINI Recharged by Paul Smith” (2022), Paul Smith now brings his world-famous design language “Classic with a twist” into the MINI family once again.

The Kia K4 Sportswagon combines dynamic styling with everyday practicality

kIA expands the k4 nameplate in Europe with the introduction of the kia k4 Sportswagon. The model is designed to combine dynamic styling with everyday practicality. Positioned between the C- and D-segments, the k4 Sportswagon is aimed at customers who require more space and flexibility combined with a dynamic and distinctive design.

The exterior design interprets Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy as a longer, more functional silhouette. At 4,695 millimetres long, the model is tailored to the wagon body style. Clean horizontal lines emphasise width and stability, while Kia’s Star Map Signature Lighting and distinctive inverted L-shaped LED rear lights ensure a strong visual identity.

Distinctive design elements, such as hidden rear door handles, a unique C-pillar graphic, and a dynamically sculpted rear, achieve a balance

between sportiness and practicality.

The result is a wagon that boasts an assertive road presence while still offering everyday functionality.

The ‘GT-Line’ variant of the K4 Sportswagon elevates its dynamic character with an exclusive highgloss black beltline, complemented by matching high-gloss black wheel arch claddings for a sleek, premium finish.

Distinctive ‘GT-Line’ front and rear bumpers deliver a sportier, more expressive stance, creating a bold visual impact that exudes confidence and excitement. Inside, the ‘GT-Line’ offers a unique cabin experience, featuring differentiated colours and refined materials that underscore its sophisticated yet athletic personality.

Every detail is designed to deliver a truly striking and premium impression, making the ‘GT-Line’ a standout choice for those who demand style and substance.

£2.1m funding boost to help Welsh firms adopt artificial intelligence

WELSH businesses are set to benefit from a £2.1 million funding package aimed at helping small and mediumsized enterprises adopt artificial intelligence in an ethical and practical way.

The investment, announced by the Welsh Government, is designed to support SMEs, entrepreneurs and microbusinesses across Wales to use AI to improve productivity, boost innovation and strengthen competitiveness.

As part of the package, £600,000 will be allocated to the Business Wales service to develop and deliver a dedicated AI awareness and adoption programme. The work will build on recommendations from recent reviews into SME productivity and the use of artificial intelligence.

A further £500,000 will be used to support the tourism and events sectors, including an AI “pollination project” delivered in partnership with specialists from the Hartree Centre Cardiff Hub and Cardiff University’s Digital Transformation Innovation Institute. The scheme aims to accelerate the take-up of AI tools among event organisers and tourism businesses.

Up to 1,000 tourism microbusinesses and SMEs are expected to benefit from in-person workshops focused on practical AI skills for digital marketing and content creation.

An additional £1 million will be invested through the Flexible Skills Programme to create a new AI upskilling offer. The scheme will focus on closing digital skills gaps and supporting inclusive growth, with employers contributing 25 per cent of AI training costs and 50 per cent for other Flexible Skills Programme courses.

One company already making use of artificial

intelligence is Swansea-based Something Different Wholesale.

The giftware business, which employs seventy-five staff and serves more than 12,000 business customers worldwide, uses AI to analyse data, gain market insight, automate routine tasks and enhance customer services. The company is also launching a new global website using AI-powered translation tools.

Founder Jane WallaceJones said AI was advancing rapidly and that businesses which adopted it effectively would gain a competitive edge, but warned many SMEs lacked

in-house expertise.

She said the funding would help Welsh businesses access high-quality training, improve productivity and support growth, innovation and job creation.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said the funding built on showcases of Welsh innovation seen at recent national technology and investment events.

She said AI was already transforming the business sector and that the programme would help ensure SMEs across Wales were ready to make the most of emerging technologies in a responsible and inclusive way, while supporting the delivery of the AI Plan for Wales.

Skills Minister Jack Sargeant said the Welsh Government recognised the potential of AI to drive economic growth and was committed to helping businesses develop the skills needed for future success.

He added that the new funding would help bridge digital skills gaps and accelerate the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence across Wales’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

Vandalised former Chinese restaurant bedsits scheme approval expected

PLANS to convert a vandalised former Pembrokeshire town centre

Chinese restaurant to a flat and bedsits are expected to be approved next week.

In an application recommended for approval the January 13 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Mr S Sahin and Miss S Ahmed, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, seek permission for a change of use of Grade-II-listed 20 Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven from the former Mandarin Restaurant to one flat and eight bedsits, an amendment of an original scheme which included one extra bedsit.

The scheme is before committee rather than delegated to officers as it is recommended for approval despite being contrary to a policy of the development plan.

The application for the Mandarin follows a withdrawn scheme for three flats deemed invalid by council planners.

A supporting statement says:

“The property has historically been in use as a Chinese restaurant on the ground floor with two flats on the upper floors of the building. The ground floor use of the building ceased some 10 years ago and currently lies vacant. Due to the lack of use of the building, it is in a very poor condition and has been the subject of unfortunate vandalism particularly to the interior of the building.”

It says that, after the previous scheme was withdrawn, the applicants have “since reviewed their position and now present revised applications to be

considered by the council”.

It adds: “The clients have re-thought on what type of accommodation is needed and required in this part of Milford Haven. It has been identified that the cheaper type of affordable housing for either workers or a single person is the most needed.

Indeed, PCC Housing Need Register reflects this need, and this has also been confirmed by the local estate agents.”

It concludes: “The proposal is considered to put an important Grade-II-Listed Building back into beneficial use and would help

to secure its long-term future. The proposal would represent a high-quality and sympathetic conversion and extension of the building, and which would make a positive contribution to the locality and conservation area status.”

An officer report recommending approval says one letter of objection was received raising concerns including potential impact on a neighbouring property and boundaries, and the discharge of the sewer under number 20.

It concludes: “The proposal is for the change of use of use with alterations and extensions to the building to create one self-contained flat and eight bedsits. This would not accord [with policy] as it would involve the change of use of the ground floor to residential (C3) use in a Secondary Frontage.

“However, material planning considerations have been identified which are considered to be sufficient to justify a departure from the policy.”

Pembrokeshire Llawhaden care home at holiday lets approved

A PREVIOUSLy refused call to change holiday accommodation near a Pembrokeshire village which was not meeting the criteria to avoid the second homes council tax premium, to a residential care home, has now been allowed.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Ian Parker sought permission for a change of use of The Sycamores, Gelli Hill, Llawhaden, on the site of a former farm complex, from an eight-bedroom holiday let capable of supporting 16 guests, to a residential care home of six residents and 10 staff.

It said the applicants, together with a third director, own and operate three care homes in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion specialising in the care of adults with learning disabilities, employing some 95 staff as the clients require 24-hour care and some need one-to-one supervision at all times.

It concluded: “It is known that nationally the care system is struggling to meet the increasing demands that are being asked of it. This is no less true for those with learning disabilities as any other group of the population. Evidence has been submitted to show that there is a demand for further residential and respite care spaces in West Wales.

“The application property exists and will remain as it is. There is no new visual impact on the countryside.”

A supporting statement, through agent H.B. Tribe Chartered Engineer, said its previous use as a holiday let was available for 140 days and actually let for 70 days in any one year, below the-now 182-day level to avoid incurring a second homes council tax premium.

A previous application was refused by county planners in 2024 on the basis it had failed “to provide justification in order to support an identified need for a residential care home at this location”.

Fishguard passengers face pared-back

A PLANNED changeover of vessels at Fishguard Harbour saw the MV ben My Chree arrive in Pembrokeshire this week ahead of taking over the Fishguard–Rosslare route.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company vessel arrived at Fishguard Harbour at 2:14pm on Tuesday (January 6), alongside the Stena Nordica, but did not immediately enter service.

Instead, the Ben My Chree remained alongside overnight while essential restocking and preparations were completed. She officially began operating the Fishguard–Rosslare service on Wednesday (January 7).

Contrary to speculation, the Nordica has not been withdrawn from service. The changeover had been planned for several months as part of Stena Line’s fleet management programme. The Nordica is scheduled to cover other Stena routes while vessels across the fleet undergo dry docking, with the ship also due to have a new gearbox fitted during her time away from Fishguard. However, the duration of her absence may now be extended following an unrelated incident at

“Recent local press reports indicate that a number of providers of holiday accommodation have left the industry as they cannot meet this target and, if they continue, are therefore liable for a huge increase in taxation, putting up the rate for holiday makers who are unlikely to pay the additional sums. Demand will therefore fall.

“In 2023 The Sycamores did not meet this new threshold and therefore faced the increased cost of having to pay council tax, (with the premium as a second home) so hard business decisions had to be taken. The property cannot continue as a holiday let.”

An officer report recommending approval for the latest application said: “The applicant in addressing the previous refusal of planning permission has provided information to demonstrate that there is substantial demand for the provision of new residential care beds from within Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.

“It is considered that the building is appropriate for the proposed use, given its current use as holiday accommodation.”

It also said concerns about potential increases in foul water drainage were already met by the potential capacity of the existing tourist accommodation. The application was conditionally approved.

service as Ben My Chree replaces Nordica

Holyhead Port on Wednesday, when the Stena Estrid suffered damage during a berthing manoeuvre. The vessel is understood to be holed and has since gone to dry dock.

The Holyhead cover had originally been expected to be provided by the Stena Edda, but the Estrid incident has altered Stena Line’s operational plans.

The Ben My Chree will now operate

the Fishguard–Rosslare service while the Nordica is deployed elsewhere within the Stena fleet. The Ben My Chree is a roll-on, roll-off ferry capable of carrying up to 500 passengers and around 200 cars or approximately 95 freight vehicles.

Built in the Netherlands and launched in 1998, the vessel previously served routes between Heysham and Douglas and has operated the

Fishguard–Rosslare crossing before as cover. While fitted with cabins, these are not currently available for booking, and the ship does not offer onboard wi-fi or a premium lounge. Despite the changes, ferry operations at Fishguard are understood to be running as planned, with both freight and passenger services continuing uninterrupted.

Generous local grant funds specialist bed for bereaved parents at Glangwili Hospital

A GENEROUS grant from a volunteer-led local group, part of Sands, has funded a bespoke pull-down double bed for the bereavement room on the labour ward at Glangwili Hospital.

The specialist fitted bed, which cost more than £16,000, has transformed the bereavement room into a more family-focused space, allowing parents to remain close and support one another at an incredibly difficult time.

The bereavement room forms part of the hospital’s newly built Labour Suite and is fully self-contained, with a kitchenette, small dining area and ensuite bathroom. Until now, however, the room only included a birthing bed and a single sofa bed, meaning partners were unable to rest together.

Feedback gathered from

bereaved families through Sands and local parent support groups highlighted the importance of physical closeness following the loss of a baby. Parents described how being able to lie together, rather than apart, can provide comfort, reassurance and a sense of shared support during the early stages of grief.

The funds for the bed were raised by Carmarthenshire & Pembrokeshire Sands volunteers Hayley Vallance, Astra Shipton and Sioned Twose, who organised a burlesque-inspired charity event, Zoo-la-la, at Manor House Wildlife Park in September 2025. The event raised more than £20,000.

The volunteerled Carmarthenshire & Pembrokeshire Sands group supports anyone affected by pregnancy loss or the death of

a baby across the two counties.

Alison Jones, Clinical and Operational Lead Midwife, said: “The loss of a baby is a devastating experience, and the environment in which families grieve can make a real difference.

“This bespoke bed allows parents to be physically close, to hold each other and to share their grief in a private, dignified space. It will have a profound impact, and we are incredibly grateful to Carmarthenshire & Pembrokeshire Sands for making this possible.”

Hayley Vallance and Astra Shipton, volunteers with Carmarthenshire & Pembrokeshire Sands, said:

“Our fundraising is in memory of George, Owen and all the babies gone too soon, and to help raise awareness of the vital support provided by Sands and the NHS to families

when they need it most.

“We hope this specialist bed will bring comfort and dignity to parents during the hardest moments of their lives. Couples deserve to be together at such times, and we are honoured to have supported such a meaningful improvement in care for our community.”

Jen Coates, Director of Bereavement Support, Community and Volunteering at Sands, said:

“We are extremely grateful to Hayley, Astra and Sioned for their dedication and hard work supporting bereaved families in Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

“By fundraising for this bed at Glangwili Hospital, our volunteers have made a lasting and meaningful difference to the experience of families at an unimaginably difficult time.”

Welsh clinicians warn against assisted dying law as Senedd debate approaches

A GROWING debate over assisted dying has moved to the forefront of Welsh politics, as more than 250 doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals urge the Senedd to reject plans that would allow terminally ill adults to seek medical assistance to end their lives.

The intervention comes ahead of a crucial vote on Tuesday (Jan 20), when Members of the Senedd will be asked whether Wales should give legislative consent to the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, legislation currently progressing through Westminster but with direct implications for devolved health services in Wales.

The Bill, which applies to mentally competent adults diagnosed with a terminal illness and given six months or less to live, has been promoted by its supporters as a compassionate option for those facing unbearable suffering. However, critics argue that it risks placing vulnerable people under subtle pressure to end their lives and could fundamentally alter the relationship between patients and clinicians.

In an open letter, more than 250 healthcare professionals working across Wales have expressed “serious concerns” about the proposals, warning that the legislation could undermine patient safety, suicide prevention efforts and confidence in end-of-life care.

The signatories include over 120 doctors alongside nurses, specialist nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, paramedics, radiographers and medical managers, many of whom work in frontline roles within NHS Wales.

They stress that their opposition is not rooted in ideology but in the practical operation of the law within an

already stretched health system.

Dr Sarah Davies, a respiratory physician based in north Wales, said the forthcoming vote should not be seen as a general endorsement or rejection of assisted dying in principle.

She said: “It is vital that our elected representatives understand that this vote concerns the specific details of this proposed legislation and how it will operate. It is not a general vote on assisted suicide.”

One of the central concerns raised is access to palliative and hospice care. Palliative care physician Dr Victoria Wheatley warned that many patients in Wales are currently unable to access specialist end-of-life support.

She said: “People living in around a quarter of Wales cannot access a hospice bed. That means they do not have real choice. Funding a state-

sponsored assisted dying service without first ensuring comprehensive palliative care is not the right approach for Wales.”

Mental health specialists have also voiced alarm. Consultant psychiatrist Dr Stuart Porter said the Bill could undermine Wales’ Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Delivery Plan for 2025–2028 and place psychiatrists in an ethically conflicted position.

He warned that the Mental Capacity Act was never designed to assess decisions around assisted dying and said the proposed role for psychiatrists is not supported by the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

Senior figures in Welsh medicine have also joined the call. Former Chief Medical Officer for Wales Dame Deirdre Hine is among the signatories, citing concerns about unintended consequences and the

potential impact on disabled people, homeless individuals and others who may already feel marginalised.

Professor Hope-Gill has raised additional constitutional concerns, warning that the Bill relies heavily on so-called “Henry VIII powers”, allowing key aspects of the system to be altered later through secondary legislation with limited scrutiny.

The clinicians also point to crossborder complexities. More than 13,300 Welsh residents are registered with GP practices in England, while over 21,100 English residents are registered with GPs in Wales, raising questions about jurisdiction, oversight and consistency of safeguards.

Supporters of assisted dying argue that strict safeguards would be built into the law and that similar systems already operate in countries such as Canada and parts of Europe. Campaigners say the legislation would offer dignity and autonomy to those facing intolerable suffering at the end of life.

Several Senedd Members have previously indicated that the issue is one of conscience rather than party politics, and the forthcoming vote is expected to cut across traditional political lines.

In their concluding statement, the healthcare professionals said the Bill risks undermining devolved decisionmaking in healthcare and creating inequality in access to care, urging Members of the Senedd to withhold legislative consent.

Support and help

This article discusses issues relating to suicide. Anyone who may be struggling or feeling distressed can seek confidential support from the Samaritans on 116 123, or from CALM on 0800 58 58 58. Support is available 24 hours a day.

Cardigan same-day urgent care service to open this weekend

A SAME-DAy urgent care service in Cardigan will open this weekend to help relieve pressure on local hospitals.

The Same Day Urgent Care (SDUC) service at Cardigan Integrated Care Centre (SA43 1JX) will be open on Saturday, January 10, and Sunday, January 11, between 9:00am and 6:30pm, supporting services across the Hywel Dda University Health Board area. The service brings together urgent primary care, minor injuries treatment, and some same-day urgent care in one location, led by experienced advanced urgent care practitioners.

Patients are asked not to attend without an appointment and should first phone 01239 807019 to speak with a triage nurse, who will assess their needs and arrange an appropriate appointment time.

Andrew Carruthers, Chief Operating Officer at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said:

“Our hospitals are currently dealing with significant demand, which is leading to long waits in our emergency departments.

“The Same Day Urgent Care service in Cardigan is an excellent alternative for people who need treatment over the weekend.

“I’d like to thank the service for working quickly to extend their opening hours this weekend. This will provide important support for our wider healthcare system.

I’d also like to thank our community for helping us to help you by choosing the right service in the right place.”

X-ray facilities will not be available this weekend. However, patients are still encouraged to phone the triage service on 01239 807019 for advice and guidance.

Health services remain under pressure due to increased demand. By choosing the most appropriate service,

patients can help ensure NHS resources are used responsibly and that staff are able to care for those most in need.

Anyone unsure which service they need for an illness or injury can visit: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/help-ushelp-you

Further information and directions for Cardigan’s Same Day Urgent Care service are available at: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/ hospitals-and-centres/same-day-urgentcare/

In a life-threatening emergency, always dial 999.

Next Senedd urged to tackle skills shortages

WITH just over 100 days to go until the Senedd elections in May, Institute of Directors Wales has published a new manifesto urging the next Welsh Government to work more closely with business and create the conditions needed for long-term, sustainable economic growth across Wales.

The manifesto draws on IoD Wales’ latest State of the Nation survey, which highlights the key pressures facing firms. Skills shortages remain the biggest concern for businesses in Wales, cited by 39 per cent of respondents. This is followed by policy uncertainty at 36 per cent, and the rising cost of labour and materials at 29 per cent — challenges the organisation warns could constrain investment, productivity and growth if left unresolved.

To unlock Wales’ economic potential, IoD Wales is calling on the next administration at the Senedd to simplify access to business support by improving the visibility of advice and funding, while investing in infrastructure that directly supports economic development and connectivity across sectors.

The manifesto also urges ministers to embed skills

development at every stage — from education and vocational routes through to lifelong learning and professional development for directors — in order to address both current and future skills gaps. In addition, it calls for greater long-term certainty by aligning investment with sectors where Wales has clear strengths and adopting a more place-based approach to economic development.

Cross-border collaboration, particularly with England, is also highlighted as a priority to make better use of shared resources, talent and market opportunities.

Commenting on the launch, Richard Selby MBE DL, cofounder of Pro Steel Engineering

and national chair of IoD Wales, said the manifesto was being published at a “pivotal moment” for the country.

He said: “With major economic choices ahead, the next Welsh Government must focus on creating a genuinely pro-business environment that supports entrepreneurship, encourages innovation and attracts investment across all parts of Wales.

“This manifesto sets out a positive and practical vision for how collaboration, strong governance and responsible leadership can help unlock sustainable growth.”

Marc Strathie, senior policy adviser for devolved nations at

the Institute of Directors, said the document reflected extensive engagement with members and the realities facing firms on the ground.

He added: “From persistent skills shortages to ongoing policy uncertainty, these are real challenges for Welsh businesses. The manifesto sets out practical, deliverable recommendations, and directors across Wales stand ready to play their part in building a more confident, enterprising and prosperous nation.”

The IoD Wales manifesto is available online and can be accessed in both English and Welsh.

Scottish court hears challenge to Palestine Action ban

A LEGAL challenge to the Uk Government’s decision to proscribe Palestine Action is being considered by Scotland’s highest civil court today.

A hearing at the Court of Session in Edinburgh on Monday (Jan 12) is examining whether a judicial review of the ban can proceed under Scots law. The outcome could have significant implications for the future of the proscription across the UK.

The organisation was banned under terrorism legislation following a decision by former Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, a move which has prompted criticism from civil liberties groups and a series of protests across the country.

Since the ban came into force, coordinated silent demonstrations have taken place in England, Wales and Scotland, with participants holding placards stating: “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” Campaign groups claim that thousands of people have been arrested nationwide

under the Terrorism Act 2000 in connection with such protests. Police and government ministers maintain that enforcement action is proportionate and lawful.

The Scottish legal challenge was lodged in October by former British ambassador Craig Murray, who is seeking a judicial review under Scots law. A separate challenge, brought in England and Wales by a founder of Palestine Action, concluded at the High Court in December, with a judgment awaited.

Supporters of the Scottish case argue that it raises constitutional questions, pointing to differences between the positions taken by the UK Government and the Scottish Parliament on the conflict in Gaza. The Scottish Government has previously described Israel’s actions as genocide and Holyrood has voted in favour of sanctionsrelated measures, though foreign policy remains a reserved matter for Westminster.

Campaigners also point to the Scottish counter-terrorism body

CONTEST, which previously concluded that Palestine Action had not met the statutory definition of terrorism. Despite this, incidents in Scotland — including an action at a weapons factory in Glasgow — were cited by the UK Government as part of the justification for the nationwide ban.

If the Scottish court allows the judicial review to proceed and ultimately rules against the proscription, it could have farreaching consequences. Legal observers note that Scottish court decisions have previously influenced UK-wide constitutional

matters, including the 2019 prorogation case decided by the UK Supreme Court. Human rights organisations have also raised concerns. A recent report by Human Rights Watch criticised the Government’s use of terrorism legislation against peaceful protest, warning that it risks undermining freedom of expression and assembly. Protests were expected outside the Court of Session this morning to coincide with the hearing. The case is being livestreamed by the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service.

Former Tory chancellor Zahawi defects to Reform UK

NADHIM ZAHAWI has defected from the Conservative Party to Reform Uk, becoming Nigel Farage’s highest-profile political recruit to date and delivering a fresh blow to the Tories’ attempts to rebuild after last year’s general election defeat.

The former chancellor, who served briefly in the role under Rishi Sunak, was unveiled at a Reform UK press conference in London on Monday morning alongside party leader Nigel Farage.

Zahawi, who was sacked from the cabinet in 2023 following a dispute with HM Revenue and Customs over his tax affairs, said he had reflected deeply on his time in government and concluded that Britain “needs Reform”. Speaking to reporters, Zahawi said he could have stepped away from politics altogether, noting that he now chairs one of the UK’s largest retailers. However, he said he felt a duty to act as the country entered what he described as a “dark and dangerous chapter”.

“We can all see that our beautiful, ancient, kind, magical island story has reached a dark and dangerous chapter,” he said. “You know in your heart of hearts that our wonderful country is sick.”

He argued that Westminster had become detached from the lived experience of people struggling to access GP appointments, facing rising taxes, or concerned about freedom of expression and education policy.

Tax row played down

Zahawi was challenged on whether his tax settlement undermined Reform UK’s anti-establishment credentials.

Responding, he said his mistake had been failing to be sufficiently specific with the Cabinet Office about the settlement he reached with HMRC. He did not dispute the findings that led to his dismissal from government.

Farage moved quickly to downplay the issue, saying tax disputes were commonplace among senior business figures.

“There’s nobody with a complex business empire that does not have to have negotiations at some point with HMRC,” he said.

Farage also compared Zahawi’s treatment to criticism faced by Reform’s London mayoral candidate, Laila Cunningham, who was attacked last week over past business failures.

In the United States, he said, such failures were often seen as part of the route to success.

Attack on ‘administrative state’

In a wide-ranging speech, Zahawi accepted that the Conservatives bore responsibility for many of the country’s problems, saying he now regretted what he described as the party’s “timidity” in government.

He blamed what he called “overmighty bureaucratic inertia” for restricting individual liberty and stifling economic growth, arguing that power had drained from parliament to unelected bodies.

While stressing his respect for civil servants as individuals, he said collectively they had turned the UK

into “an administrative state”.

Zahawi also criticised Conservative failures on mass migration, defence spending and legislation he described as “virtue signalling”, saying these had

provided “painful lessons” that brought him to Reform UK.

Concluding the event, Farage said: “Britain needs Reform.”

Lammy defends curbs on jury trials amid Labour backlash

JUSTICE SECRETARy David Lammy has defended plans to restrict the use of jury trials, arguing the changes are necessary to reduce growing delays and “save the criminal justice system”, as opposition mounts within Labour ranks.

The proposals, which would remove the automatic right to a jury trial for offences carrying a likely prison

sentence of three years or less, have sparked a rebellion from backbench MPs and concern among parts of the legal profession.

Speaking on Monday (Jan 12), Mr Lammy said the Crown Court backlog in England and Wales — now standing at around 80,000 cases — could not be cleared without significant reform. He said the measures were designed to ensure the system was “fit for

purpose” and capable of delivering justice more quickly for victims and defendants alike.

Mr Lammy recently visited Canada to examine its use of judge-only trials, where many criminal cases are heard without a jury. He said the approach had operated there for decades and was “very normal”, adding that in some cases defendants preferred being tried by a single judge.

He said he was open to a “sunset clause” that would make the changes temporary, allowing Parliament to review their impact. He said he hoped the backlog would be significantly reduced by 2029, ahead of the next general election, and cleared entirely by the mid-2030s.

However, the plans have triggered a fierce response from Labour MP Karl Turner, a former shadow attorney general and practising criminal barrister. Mr Turner has warned he would consider resigning from Parliament to force a by-election unless the proposals are dropped.

Breaking the Labour whip for

the first time since entering the Commons in 2010, Mr Turner sided with the Conservatives in a protest vote against the reforms. He accused the Government of undermining a cornerstone of the justice system and told Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, himself a former director of public prosecutions, that he “ought to be ashamed”.

In interviews with The Sunday Times and Times Radio, Mr Turner said he was “completely ashamed” of the proposals and claimed Mr Lammy had been misled by civil servants pushing for long-standing changes.

He also warned that a by-election in his Hull East seat, which he won with a majority of 3,920 in 2024, could be vulnerable to Reform UK. Despite the growing unease on the Labour benches, the Government is expected to press ahead with legislation, insisting the reforms are essential to prevent further delays and restore confidence in the criminal courts.

POSITIVELY LIBERAL

W ITH ANDREW LYE

Welsh Liberal Democrats have raised fresh concerns in Parliament about the continued red tape facing Welsh farmers and food producers exporting meat, particularly lamb, to the European Union.

Speaking during a parliamentary debate secured by the Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick, the Lib Dems highlighted how producers in rural areas of Wales are still encountering significant costs, delays and bureaucracy when exporting to key EU markets including Germany and the Netherlands.

Welsh lamb exports are especially exposed to post-Brexit barriers. While the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement removed tariffs and quotas, it introduced new non-tariff barriers, including export health certificates, veterinary sign-off and sanitary and phytosanitary checks. These requirements were absent when the UK was part of the EU Single Market and Customs Union.

Although the UK Government has announced progress towards closer cooperation with the EU on food and agricultural trade, there is still no fully settled or implemented Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement in place. As a result, exporters remain subject to many of the same requirements introduced after Brexit, with smaller producers often bearing the greatest burden.

Welsh food and drink exports were worth £813 million in 2023, with around 75% destined for EU countries. The EU remains the destination for around a third of Welsh lamb exports, around 90% of Welsh beef exports and the vast

majority of Welsh dairy exports, underlining how vital smooth access to European markets is for rural Wales.

Mr Chadwick also warned that repeated delays to the UK’s own border control system and uneven inspection regimes have left UK farmers at a disadvantage, while imports face fewer checks than equivalent British exports. He said these failures were the direct result of Brexit decisions taken by Conservative governments, supported and promoted by Reform UK, without regard for the practical impact on agriculture.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to urgently secure a fully implemented SPS agreement with the EU, developed in close collaboration with farmers and food producers, to reduce unnecessary barriers, protect rural livelihoods and restore confidence in export markets.

David Chadwick, Welsh Liberal Democrats Deputy Leader and MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe said:

“Welsh farmers were promised that Brexit would make exporting easier. Instead, Conservative governments, cheered on by Reform UK, delivered more paperwork, higher costs and fewer markets.

“Farmers in rural Wales are still paying the price for ideological decisions taken in Westminster with little understanding of how agriculture actually works.

“Warm words and future negotiations are not enough. The Government needs to stop dragging its feet, finish the job on an SPS agreement with the EU, and give Welsh farmers back the ability to sell their worldclass produce without unnecessary red tape.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Plaid leader says election win would be used to map ‘road to independence’

ap

has said his party would use time in government after the 2026 Senedd election to set out what he described as a “road to independence” for Wales.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday (Jan 13), Mr ap Iorwerth said Plaid’s next manifesto would explain how the party would use office to “make the case” for Wales taking “more levers of power” into its own hands.

“Of course, the manifesto will spell out how we will want to use our time in government to make the case for how we can do things differently in Wales, how we can set a different trajectory for us by taking more levers of power into our hands,” he said.

“You can call that independence now, you can call it the road to independence, whatever.”

The comments come as parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the next Senedd election, due to take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

WHAT PLAID IS PROPOSING

Plaid Cymru has long supported Welsh independence in principle, but the pace and mechanism of any constitutional change has been a recurring point of political contention.

In previous policy documents, Plaid has proposed producing a “Green Paper on the path to independence” and establishing a national commission to examine options for Wales’ political and economic future and involve citizens in that debate.

Mr ap Iorwerth’s latest remarks suggest the party intends to foreground that agenda in the run-

up to 2026, framing independence as part of a broader argument for greater Welsh decision-making powers.

A Plaid Cymru news release issued the same day described the election as an opportunity to elect a Plaid-led government and referenced “bold plans” for Wales, delivered alongside the press conference.

CONSERVATIVES

AND LIb DEMS HIT bACk

The Welsh Conservatives responded by accusing Plaid of seeking to break up the United Kingdom.

Darren Millar MS, the party’s leader in the Senedd, said: “Plaid Cymru want to tear Britain apart. The people of Wales won’t let them.”

Mr Millar also criticised further devolution, describing it as a “salami slice strategy” towards independence.

Responding to Plaid Cymru’s press conference, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS said: “Plaid Cymru’s plans for independence would do catastrophic damage to the Welsh economy and be thousands of times more damaging than Brexit, risking jobs, investment and public services across Wales.

Plaid may be trying to hide its support for independence, but it is the very reason the party exists. We have seen in Scotland with the SNP that once nationalists get into power, they waste money, time and political resources obsessing over independence instead of focusing on the day-to-day issues that actually affect people’s lives.

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats are clear: we will not support any

government, formally or informally, that spends a single pound on independence. Our priority is fixing the real issues people face: fixing the NHS and social care, growing the economy and tackling the costof-living crisis.”

THE POLITICAL bACkDROP

The exchange lands in an already volatile pre-election landscape, with polls and analysis over the past year suggesting a more fragmented contest than Wales has traditionally seen, and growing competition for voters across parties.

It also comes against the backdrop of Senedd reforms that will change how voters choose their representatives at the next election, including an expanded chamber.

WHAT COMES NExT

Plaid Cymru has not yet published its 2026 manifesto. The party says the document will set out how it would use government to advance its case for greater powers, which Mr ap Iorwerth described as a “road to independence”.

The Welsh Conservatives say they will campaign against any further constitutional drift and will argue that independence would weaken Wales economically. With the election less than 16 months away, both parties are expected to sharpen their pitch to voters on the constitutional question—alongside the more immediate concerns of public services, living costs, and jobs—issues likely to dominate campaigning across Wales in the months ahead.

Welsh Liberal Democrats blame social care shortages after Swansea Bay escalation

CONCERNS have been raised about pressure on hospitals in Swansea bay after the health board declared its highest level of escalation for the second time in a week — a move that could have knock-on effects for patients from Pembrokeshire who rely on Swansea hospitals for specialist treatment.

Swansea Bay University Health Board’s escalation, known as a Business Continuity Incident, is triggered when demand and capacity pressures reach a critical level, allowing extra internal measures to be put in place to manage patient flow, staffing pressures and bed availability.

While the health board serves Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, its hospitals also provide specialist services used by patients from across west Wales. Pembrokeshire residents are regularly referred to Morriston Hospital and Singleton Hospital for a range of care, including nuclear medicine and other specialist investigations and treatments not always available locally.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats said the latest escalation underlined what they claim is a deeper system-wide issue: shortages in social care leaving patients unable to leave hospital when medically fit, which in turn blocks beds and adds pressure across emergency and planned services.

The party said: “The crisis declared by Swansea Bay University Health Board is further proof that Wales’ NHS cannot be fixed without urgent action on social care.”

The party pointed to Powys, where the council is led by the Welsh Liberal Democrats, claiming hospital discharge delays have been cut by a third after additional funding was used to recruit more social care staff.

They said the funding was secured by Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds MS during last year’s budget negotiations and directed into expanding community care capacity.

“SOCIAL

CARE FAILURE AS MUCH AS AN NHS ONE”

Responding to Swansea Bay’s decision to declare its highest escalation level again, Jane Dodds MS said the hospital pressures were being driven in part by the lack of care available in the community.

“When hospitals are full and patients are stuck in beds because the care they need at home isn’t available, that is a social care failure as much as an NHS one,” she said.

“What we are seeing in Swansea Bay is exactly what happens when social care is underfunded and overstretched – hospital backlogs, delayed discharges and staff pushed to breaking point.

“Labour has run social care in Wales into the ground, and the consequences are now being felt in hospitals like Morriston and Singleton.

“The lesson is clear: fixing social care fixes the NHS. Wales needs sustained investment in community and social care, not endless crisis management once

BLUE VIEW

With Paul Davies MS

HAPPy New year to all Pembrokeshire Herald Readers! I sincerely hope that 2026 brings peace and prosperity to you and your families.

hospitals are already full.”

Local candidate: “People see it every day”

Sam Bennett, a Swansea councillor and Senedd candidate for Gŵyr Abertawe, said residents were seeing the impact of care shortages daily.

“People across Swansea are seeing the impact of social care shortages every day, whether that’s loved ones stuck in hospital or pressure on frontline staff,” he said.

“Investing properly in care isn’t optional, it’s essential if we want our local hospitals to cope, and it will be my priority should I be elected to the Senedd this May.”

WIDER IMPACT

Escalations of this kind are generally introduced to manage periods of exceptional pressure and can involve steps to prioritise urgent care, support discharge planning and manage demand across services.

For Pembrokeshire, any sustained disruption in Swansea Bay can cause concern because of the region’s reliance on specialist appointments and procedures carried out in Swansea. Patients and families are often already travelling long distances for care, and delays or rescheduling can have significant practical and emotional impact.

Health boards have repeatedly urged the public to use NHS services appropriately during periods of high demand and to support timely discharge where it is safe to do so, as blocked beds can quickly intensify pressure across the system.

This year promises to be a significant one politically, with the Senedd elections scheduled for May and two forthcoming by-elections in the county—one in Fishguard and another in Hakin. These by-elections follow the sad passing of the sitting councillors, and I’d like to pay tribute to Councillor Jordan Ryan and Councillor Mike Stoddart for their dedication and service to their communities.

In Fishguard, the campaign is already underway, and I have been out on the doorstep with my Party’s candidate, Brian Murphy. Brian has a wealth of public service experience as a retired police officer and I know that if he’s elected, he’d be an excellent representative for the community. We’ve had many constructive conversations with local residents, and we will continue to be out and about as much as possible between now and polling day on 10 February. If you see us, then please stop by for a chat – we’d love to hear from you about some of the issues that matter most to you. I’m very aware that Fishguard is a strategically important area, and it is vital that whoever is elected is committed to tackling the challenges the community faces. As the local Senedd Member I have been working closely with the Town Council and other representatives on several issues, including a few transport matters.

Just like the transport network in the town needs attention, so too does transport connectivity to the town and over the years, I’ve consistently called on the Welsh Government to dual the A40 from Haverfordwest to Fishguard. In my view, this is not just a road upgrade – it’s an investment in the future of Pembrokeshire. I believe that dualling the A40 would help ease congestion and strengthen the port’s role as a gateway for trade and tourism. Readers, we’ve seen the transformative impact of dualling the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road, which has revitalised local communities in the South Wales Valleys and driven economic growth – and we should see investment like this in Pembrokeshire.

Fishguard is a fantastic town with huge potential, and I’m proud to represent it – but more needs to be done to unlock that potential.

The town deserves significant transport investment, and I’ll continue working closely with local representatives to press the Welsh Government and Pembrokeshire County Council to deliver the improvements that the local community needs. Better roads mean better opportunities – and that’s what Fishguard and the wider area deserve.

For several years, I’ve been trying to persuade the Welsh Government to improve the road network in Lower Town, Fishguard. As it currently stands, pedestrians are forced to share the town’s bridge with vehicles of all sizes, raising serious safety concerns. To make matters worse, heavy goods vehicles are regularly flouting restrictions, causing severe congestion. This ongoing problem is not only frustrating for residents but is also harming the local economy. I’ve tried to encourage the First Minister to work with me in the community’s interest but unfortunately she hasn’t taken me up on my invitation.

SEND

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

Pic Ture oF The week!

Incredible walk from Fishguard to Newport - James Downs

FINDING TIME TO GIVE BACK

DEAR SIR,

MANy people would love to give something back to their community, but finding the time to volunteer can be a real challenge.

For many, it’s hard to commit to a traditional volunteering shift at a fixed time each week. Juggling work, family and dayto-day responsibilities often means even the best intentions never quite make it into the diary.

That’s why, with the support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Royal Voluntary Service has launched GoVo — a free platform designed to make volunteering easier to fit around real life. It helps people find opportunities locally or remotely, matched to their interests, availability and the causes they care about.

As well as more familiar, regular roles, GoVo offers flexible one-off options, remote

opportunities and some more unexpected ways to help, depending on your area. These range from dog walking for someone with a terminal illness, to DJing at discos for people living with dementia, knitting baby clothes for families in need, or supporting young people with visual impairments through exam time.

Time is precious, and giving it can be priceless — not only for the people and causes you support, but for you, too. Volunteering can boost wellbeing, improve mental health, build confidence, develop new skills, and strengthen your sense of purpose and connection with others.

So, if you’d like to give volunteering a go — even if you feel short on time — I’d encourage you to explore what’s available at GoVo.org, or visit your local volunteer centre. There’s a great deal out there, and you may be surprised at how easy it can be to make a difference.

DAVE STOTT

DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEERING, ROyAL VOLUNTARy SERVICE

WE MUST VALUE EMPATHY AS MUCH AS POWER

DEAR SIR,

MOST people understand that the Nazi regime murdered Jewish children, including babies, in concentration camps. That historical fact should remain a permanent warning: when a society loses empathy for the vulnerable, it becomes capable of almost anything.

It is also hard to ignore a wider pattern in human behaviour. Across the world, most prisoners are male. Most wars are started and fought largely by men. Violence is too often treated as a solution, even though it invariably creates new problems and deepens old ones.

The United Nations was founded in the aftermath of catastrophe, as an attempt to anchor international life in principles rather than hatred, grievance or pride.

But institutions alone cannot prevent cruelty. Ultimately, what restrains it is moral seriousness, education, and the willingness to protect those who cannot protect themselves. In every society, care for the next generation is essential. Traditionally, and often practically, women have carried a great deal of that responsibility. The contribution of women to stability, compassion and community life is not a “soft” virtue; it is the foundation of civilisation. Against that backdrop, I find it alarming when political movements treat the welfare of children as negotiable — whether through austerity that undermines family support, or rhetoric that dehumanises those in need. Whatever our party loyalties, we should be able to agree on one thing: no society should ever make it harder for babies and children to be fed, housed and cared for.

If we want a calmer, more humane country, we must value empathy as much as power, and protect the vulnerable as firmly as we defend the strong.

C N WESTERMAN

death notices

J ENNIFER A NNE B ECKETT

J ENNIFER passed away peacefully on January 1st, aged 78 years.

Devoted wife of the late Michael, beloved mother of Belinda and mother-in-law of Allan, an adored Nanny to Charlotte and Ashley and Great Nanny to Amelia-Rose, a dearly loved sister and sister-in-law of Maureen and Donald.

She will be greatly missed.

Funeral service Tuesday 20th January at 11am in the Lady Chapel, St.Davids Cathedral, followed by interment at St.Davids Cemetery.

Family flowers only, donations, if desired, for Macmillan Cancer Support or the Paul Sartori Foundation c/o W.G.Bernard Mathias, 62 New Street, SA62 6SU

M R E DGAR M ACHIN

T HE death occurred peacefully at home on Friday 2nd January 2026 of Mr Leonard Edgar Machin, affectionately known as Edgar, aged 85 years of Albany Street, Pembroke Dock, formerly of Martletwy.

Beloved Husband of Margo. Dearly loved Dad of Mark and Paul. Much loved Father-in-law. Cherished Gramps and Great-Gramps.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 27th January 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12.15pm.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation c/o E. C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 and Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson.co.uk

T IMOTHY D AVID R EES

A FTER a short illness Timothy David Rees of Haverfordwest Passed away at Glangwili Hospital on Saturday 27th December 2025 aged 72 years.

Much loved father of Ellie, Lauren and Maddie and loving grampy,

brother and friend.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday 29th January, 1:00pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to MIND may be sent c/o Ellie Brick, 10 River View, Llangwm, Haverfordwest SA62 4JW.

Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418

W ENDY E LIZABETH R ICHARDS

T HE death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Thursday 18th December of Mrs. Wendy Elizabeth Richards, of Hamilton Court, Pembroke Dock.

Wendy was 70 and will be very sadly missed by all her family and friends.

The funeral will take place on Friday 23rd January with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 11.30.am.

Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu may be made for Breast Cancer UK.

All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115 who are carrying out the arrangements.

R OB P HILLIPS

S UDDENLy but peacefully on Monday 29th December at Withybush Hospital, Rob of Johnston.

Loving and devoted father of Sammy and her partner Jess, Rob will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Funeral service on Thursday 22nd January at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1:45pm.

No flowers by request. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Paul Sartori Foundation’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

C AROLINE C OLLIER

C AROLINE Collier of Castle Pill Crescent, Steynton.

Caroline sadly passed away on New year’s Day. She leaves behind her Husband Donald, Daughter Samantha and Grandchildren Lauren and Liam, b rother Michael and Dad David.

She will be missed by all.

Funeral service will take place Monday 19th January at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth followed by refreshments at Foresters Pub in Neyland.

Family flowers only and all donations to Cancer Research - www. cancerresearchuk.org

All enquiries to Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel 01646 693180

W ILLIAM ‘“B ILL ” ‘ T ERENCE M AYHEW

bILL of Greenhill Crescent, Haverfordwest and formerly of Hakin, Milford Haven passed away passed away peacefully at his home on New years Day, aged 94 years.

Devoted husband of the late Pat, dearly loved father and father-in-law to Geoff and Jane and Richard and

Dorothy and an adored grandfather and great grandfather.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 20th January at 2.30pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only, donations if desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation may be made via paulsartori.org

All enquires to Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel 01646 693180

W ILLIAM ‘“B ILL ” ‘ T ERENCE M AYHEW

bILL of Greenhill Crescent, Haverfordwest and formerly of Hakin, Milford Haven passed away passed away peacefully at his home on New years Day, aged 94 years.

Devoted husband of the late Pat, dearly loved father and father-in-law to Geoff and Jane and Richard and Dorothy and an adored grandfather and great grandfather.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 20th January at 2.30pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only, donations if desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation may be made via paulsartori.org

All enquires to Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel 01646 693180

M ELONY R ICHARDS

P EACEFULLy at Glangwili Hospital on Monday, January 5, 2026, Melony Elizabeth Richards, Maes-yr-Awel, Hermon, Glogue aged 55 years.

Devoted mother of Osian and his partner Hannah, much loved daughter of Alwyn and the late Shirley, much loved sister of Mandy, Robin and Michelle, dear sister-in-law of Elaine and a friend to everyone.

Public funeral service on Saturday, January 24 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1.00pm.

Please wear a splash of colour. Family flowers only.

Further enquiries to Colin Phillips and Daughters Funeral Directors, Cardigan Tel: 01239 621192.

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Race-day fuelling: Simple nutrition tips for runners ahead of 5K and marathon season

RUNNERS preparing for events from 5ks to full marathons are being urged to pay as much attention to nutrition as they do to training, with new guidance highlighting simple steps that can make a big difference on race day.

Activity Wales Events has shared a set of practical tips covering what to eat and drink before, during and after a race, warning that poor fuelling can lead to fatigue, cramps and a sharp drop-off in performance — even when training has gone well.

The advice encourages runners to avoid trying anything new on the day and to focus on a steady routine in the days leading up to an event, including sensible carbohydrate intake, regular meals and good hydration.

It also highlights the importance of planning for longer distances, where runners may need to take on energy during the race — and

to practise that strategy in training so the body is used to it.

Organisers say recovery matters too, with post-race food and fluids helping the body

repair and reducing the risk of feeling unwell after finishing.

The guidance is aimed at runners of all abilities and distances, from those taking part in their first 5K

to experienced competitors tackling half marathons and marathons.

The full guide is available via Activity Wales Events’ website.

Major storm damage confirmed at popular Pembrokeshire

A Pembrokeshire

sporting club – described as ‘a breathing hub of inclusion and resilience’ –has launched a major fund raising drive after recent storms wreaked thousands of pounds worth of damage to its structure.

A large section of roofing at the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Amateur Boxing Club has fallen in as a result of strong winds while the main gym area is currently inaccessible.

“It’s heartbreaking to see this important community facility hit so hard by the recent storms,” commented South Pembrokeshire’s Senedd Member, Sam Kurtz.

“I’ve seen for myself the fantastic work that Pembroke and Pembroke Dock ABC does when I attended a junior disability boxing session at the club in Water Street, Pembroke Dock.

“It leads by example, and the club is an outstanding example of where community and fitness brings everyone together.

“I ask everyone to support

ABC

the club as it attempts to repair the storm damage in whatever way they can.”

Pembroke and Pembroke Dock ABC prides itself on welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds on a daily basis including those in need of recovery support, adaptive sport or trauma-informed programmes. This includes people receiving stroke recovery, Parkinson’s support, safeguarding workshops and

youth mentoring.

The club also prides itself on having a strong team of volunteers, aged between 16 and 70, who are described as ‘the heartbeat’ of the club’s work.

Formed in 1964 by Police Officer Bryn Phillips, the club later affiliated to WABA and has become a well established and much loved part of the community, producing many champions and taking part in

numerous local community events.

Since then, it has witnessed a steady increase in users as more families, schools and support services continue to use its facilities.

The club is currently trying to raise a total of £50,000 to repair the extensive storm damage. All donations can be made via the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock AFC gofund me link.

manderwood Pembrokeshire league

division

division

division Three

Camrose Reserves v Pennar Robins II Haverfordwest

v Tenby II

Pendine v Clarbeston Road Res

division Four

Fishguard Sports Res v Manorbier United

Milford Athletic v Newport Tigers

Milford United Res v Neyland Reserves

Prendergast Villa v Angle Solva Reserves v Hundleton

division Five

Broad Haven Res v N Hedges Saundersfoot II

Lawrenny Res v Haverfordwest CC Res

Milford United III v Kilgetty III

Narberth Reserves v Prendergast Villa II

Pembroke Boro Res v Letterston Res

St Clears Res v Herbrandston Res

Cardiff fans urge WRU to rule out Ospreys-linked takeover

CARDIFF supporters have warned the Welsh Rugby Union that they oppose any move to sell their club to owners connected with rivals Ospreys.

Cardiff Rugby was taken into WRU ownership after entering temporary administration in April 2025, and the governing body is now seeking new investors. Final bids are due by Monday, with a sale expected within weeks.

Speculation has grown that Ospreys’ owners, Y11 Sport & Media, are among the bidders, potentially with a plan to merge the two sides into a single entity. Such an outcome would align with the

WRU’s stated aim of reducing the number of Welsh professional men’s teams from four to three.

Neither the WRU nor Y11 has commented publicly on the rumours. The lack of clarity has fuelled anxiety among Ospreys supporters about their club’s future, while Cardiff fans have voiced strong opposition on social media to any takeover linked to a rival.

The independent supporters’ body CF10 Rugby Trust said it has raised concerns directly with the WRU.

CF10 chair Lynn Glaister told BBC Radio Wales that supporters fear Cardiff

would be permanently associated with the loss of another historic club if such a deal went ahead.

“We have told the WRU that whoever owns Cardiff, it needs to be positive for Cardiff rugby,” she said. “Another club’s owners taking us over risks Cardiff being branded as the team that ended another side for good.”

Welsh rugby has been facing prolonged uncertainty since the WRU announced last October that it intended to cut one professional men’s licence. The governing body has since said it plans to award three licences — one in Cardiff,

one in the east and one in the west — potentially setting up a direct battle for survival between the Swansea-based Ospreys and Llanelli’s Scarlets.

A takeover of Cardiff by Ospreys’ owners would achieve that three-team structure without a competitive tender process, a prospect that has intensified opposition from supporters.

Glaister said communication with fans has been limited. “We are grateful the WRU chair and chief executive have met with us and listened, but we have not been told who has actually bid for Cardiff,” she said, adding that those involved in the process are bound by non-disclosure agreements.

CF10 confirmed it is aware of at least one alternative bid, led by former Cardiff director Martyn Ryan, backed by a group that includes three US-based television and film producers. That consortium, Glaister said, engaged with supporters before the formal process began and outlined its vision for the club.

By contrast, she said, the identity and intentions of the other bidder have not been shared.

“The other bidder remains a secret,” she said. “If you want to own Cardiff, we believe you need to be open, meet supporters and be clear about your plans.”

Gritty west Wales racer Rhys Lloyd targets finish at Dubai 24-hour endurance race

DETERMINED Carmarthen racing driver Rhys Lloyd is hoping it will be third time lucky when he lines up for the Dubai 24 Hour this weekend, with the gruelling race taking place on Saturday (Jan 17).

The forty-year-old Welshman has competed in the famous endurance event twice before but failed to see the chequered flag on both occasions — once due to mechanical problems and once following an accident.

Now, Lloyd says he is in the best shape of his career as he prepares to take on one of the toughest endurance races in global motorsport.

“I’m absolutely determined to get the job done this time and drive over the line — for me, for my family, for Wales and for my team,” he said.

“I can’t wait to get back on circuit. I’ve been working really hard on my fitness and preparation, and I know the experience I’ve gained from previous 24-hour races will really count.”

NIGHT-TIME CHALLENGE

Lloyd is part of a four-man French outfit, Circuit Toys with Toyota Gazoo France, and is the only Welsh driver among almost 286 competitors across 68 cars. He will be racing a Toyota Supra GT4 Evo2 against teams from Europe, Japan, Australia and the United States.

He added: “As a team, the key is getting through the night. Those long hours of darkness are physically and mentally draining, but we have the car and the experience to achieve a strong result.”

The Dubai 24 Hour was first held in 2006 at the Dubai Autodrome and was created as a winter endurance event for European teams during the off-season. It has since grown into one of the most prestigious endurance races outside Europe.

The event is regarded as particularly demanding due to its extended night running, with sunset around 5.30pm and sunrise at approximately 7.15am — meaning more than fourteen hours of the race is driven in darkness.

GLObAL ENDURANCE FIxTURE

Sanctioned by the 24H Series and originally organised by Dutch promoter Creventic, the race has attracted major manufacturers over the years, including Porsche, Mercedes-AMG, Audi, BMW and Ferrari.

A distinctive feature of the Dubai 24 Hour is its day-to-night-to-day format in desert conditions, with teams forced to manage temperature swings, sand on the circuit and long green-flag runs. By the 2010s, the race had established itself as the traditional season opener for international GT endurance racing and remains a key fixture on the global

motorsport calendar.

Qualifying for this year’s event takes place on Friday (January 16), with the race starting on Saturday (January 17).

From karting to endurance champion

Carmarthen-based property

businessman Lloyd has enjoyed a long and varied motorsport career, beginning in karting where he became Welsh Karting Champion in both 1999 and 2000.

He later moved into rallying and saloon cars, winning the Welsh Sports and Saloon Car Championship in 2008 and being named Welsh Young Driver of the Year. That same year, he also claimed the LMA Euro National Saloon Car Championship.

After stepping away from regular competition for around a decade to focus on business, Lloyd returned to motorsport in endurance racing, competing internationally in TCR and Britcar competitions.

He enjoyed major success at the 18 Hours of Hockenheim in 2020 and 2021 and went on to win the overall and class titles in the 2023 Britcar Endurance Championship with his own team, Dragon Sport.

Lloyd is also the founder of Dragon Sport, which competes in national endurance and tin-top championships and runs a driver development scholarship.

Cardiff fans urge WRU to rule out Ospreys-linked takeover • P80