The Pembrokeshire Herald 20/02/2026 by The Pembrokeshire Herald

MAN charged with GBH with intent following incident involving ‘Pembrokeshire Patriot’

Defendant remanded in custody as case linked to police raids on Friday

a Man has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent following an incident in Pembroke dock involving controversial local activist darren Edmundson, widely known as the “Pembrokeshire Patriot.”

Zack Ian Craig High, aged 26, of Anthem Court, Monkton, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Feb 16) accused of unlawfully and maliciously causing grievous bodily harm to Edmundson with intent.

The allegation relates to an incident at an address in Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, on January 29.

No plea was entered during the hearing. Due to the seriousness of the charge, the case was sent directly to Swansea Crown Court under Section 51 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

High was remanded in custody. Magistrates were told bail was refused on multiple grounds, including the nature and seriousness of the offence, concerns he may commit further offences, interfere with witnesses, and issues relating to previous record and character.

He is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court on March 20 at 9:00am for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

Link to major police operation

The charge comes after a significant armed police operation in Pembroke Dock on Friday (Feb 13), which The Pembrokeshire Herald reported extensively at the time.

Heavily equipped officers carried out pre-planned raids in Bush Street and nearby Gordon Street, leading to four arrests including a man detained on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

It is understood the investigation

relates to the alleged assault which has now resulted in High being charged.

Darren Edmundson has previously attracted attention locally and nationally under the name “Pembrokeshire Patriot,” becoming known for outspoken activism and online broadcasting. His activities and campaigns have generated both support and controversy.

He has also been linked to disputes surrounding a veterans’ support initiative and other activism-related issues, which he has strongly denied wrongdoing.

No further details about Edmundson’s injuries were disclosed during the magistrates’ hearing. As criminal proceedings are ongoing, Zack Ian Craig High is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

abOuT THE allEgEd viCTiM

Seriously injured in incident: Darren Edmundson was taken to hospital by ambulance

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Telecom vandal admits causing £33,000 damage to Pembroke Dock network

a PEMbROKE dOCK man has admitted causing more than £33,000 worth of damage to a telecommunications network after cutting through fibre optic cables in the early hours of the morning.

Mickey Probert, aged 37, was seen lifting a drain cover in Wavell Crescent at around 3.50am on January 23, 2024, before entering an underground chamber and cutting through fibre infrastructure belonging to OGI.

Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court that Probert had accessed a telecom footway chamber and cut through micro ducting and fibre cables.

Suspicions were raised when a nearby resident was woken by loud clanging noises and saw a man acting suspiciously near green utility boxes.

“The witness saw a male bend down in front of the boxes, lift the covers and shine a headtorch towards

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

the ground,” she said.

Following a description provided by the witness, police arrested Probert. A search of his property uncovered wire cutters, a headtorch and a woolly hat.

The total cost of the damage to the OGI network was calculated at £33,767.98.

Defence solicitor Tom Lloyd said his client was unable to explain his actions but was extremely remorseful.

“He has a lot of things going on that haven’t properly been explored,” he told the court.

Probert, currently of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to criminal damage.

Given the seriousness of the offence, District Judge Mark Layton declined jurisdiction, meaning sentencing must take place at a

court.

Baby assault allegations: Couple deny charges over eight-week-old infant

TWO people from Haverfordwest have appeared before a district judge charged with assaulting, illtreating and neglecting an eightweek-old baby in Haverfordwest town centre.

The man and woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons in order to protect the identity of the child, are accused of failing to take the infant to hospital after the baby allegedly sustained injuries during what has been described as a domestic accident.

The pair appeared before District Judge Mark Layton sitting at

Court Reporter

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, where they jointly denied charges of assault, ill-treatment and neglect of a child.

The man also faces an additional charge of wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent in relation to the same infant. He denied that charge.

Given the seriousness of the allegations, Judge Layton declined jurisdiction, meaning the case must be dealt with at a higher court.

Proceedings will now continue at Swansea Crown Court on March 20. Both defendants were released on

conditional bail, with conditions that they reside at their current address in Southampton.

Probert will now be sentenced at

Swansea Crown Court on March 10. The court requested an all-options probation report ahead of the hearing.

Anger as Withybush loses emergency surgery

PEMbROKESHiRE patients will be forced to travel further for lifesaving treatment after a controversial decision to remove emergency general surgery services from Withybush Hospital.

The move was confirmed following an extraordinary two-day meeting of the Hywel Dda University Health Board held on Wednesday and Thursday (Feb 18–19), where senior officials took decisions on nine services as part of the organisation’s long-running Clinical Services Plan.

The decision has sparked immediate political backlash, with local Senedd Member Paul Davies condemning the outcome and warning it represents another major blow to healthcare provision in Pembrokeshire.

Mr Davies said: “I’m extremely angry that Hywel Dda University Health Board has once again decided to remove services from Withybush Hospital,” he said.

“Patients will now have to travel for emergency general surgery services and it’s another example of the Health Board doing whatever it wants, against the will of the people of Pembrokeshire.

“This is the latest in a long line of services that has been stripped from the hospital over the years and is further evidence that the Health Board is pushing a centralisation agenda that punishes the people of Pembrokeshire.”

Clinical Services Plan

Last year, the Health Board consulted communities across west Wales on proposed changes to nine services considered “fragile and in need of change,” including critical care, dermatology, emergency general surgery, endoscopy, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, stroke, radiology and urology.

The consultation covered the region’s four main hospitals — Withybush in Haverfordwest, Glangwili in Carmarthen, Prince Philip in Llanelli

Hospital.

and Bronglais in Aberystwyth.

Health chiefs previously said the services were selected because of risks around sustainability, staffing and the ability to deliver safe, timely care.

During the consultation process, communities submitted around 190 alternative ideas, later narrowed down to 22 potential options for consideration by board members.

WHaT THE dECiSiOn MEanS

Following the board’s decision, emergency general surgery operations will no longer take place at Withybush

However, the Health Board says same-day emergency care (SDEC) services at Withybush will be strengthened.

For the other hospitals in the region, there will be no change to emergency general surgery provision, apart from an expansion of same-day emergency care at Glangwili Hospital.

Board members stressed that the changes would not happen immediately.

Chief Executive Phil Kloer told the meeting the proposals were aimed at “improving the quality of service for the public,” adding that a Pembrokeshirepreferred option — alternating emergency surgery between Withybush and Glangwili on different weeks — had raised safety concerns among clinicians and managers.

OTHER SERviCE CHangES

The board also backed changes to critical care services.

Under the plans, intensive care provision will remain unchanged at all hospitals except Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli, where the intensive care unit will be replaced by an enhanced care unit, with the sickest patients transferred elsewhere.

POliTiCal baCKlaSH

Mr Davies said he was “appalled” by the outcome.

“The Health Board is obsessed with removing services from Pembrokeshire

and has spent years downgrading and removing services from Withybush Hospital,” he said.

“As one constituent has rightly said, the Board should be rebranded the Carmarthenshire Health Board, as it continues to strip assets from other hospitals in west Wales.”

He warned the decision could undermine emergency care locally.

“Removing general emergency services critically undermines the sustainability of Withybush Hospital’s A&E department and will result in patients having to be transported for urgent treatment.

“This is not acceptable – I will be taking this to the Welsh Government and urging Ministers to intervene and stop the Health Board from making this catastrophic decision.”

WidER COnCERnS

The removal of emergency general surgery from Withybush is likely to reignite long-running concerns about healthcare access in west Wales, particularly around travel distances, ambulance pressures and the resilience of rural health services.

Campaigners have repeatedly warned that losing specialist services increases risks for patients facing timecritical conditions.

A full statement from the Health Board is expected following the conclusion of the meeting.

Board papers and meeting information are available via the Health Board website.

Paul Davies MS: “Extremely angry” at the announcement.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Withybush: From full district hospital to “salami-sliced” services

How Pembrokeshire’s main hospital has changed over more than a decade

WiTHybuSH HOSPiTal

reopened in 1979 as Pembrokeshire’s flagship district general hospital, providing consultant-led maternity, a Special Care baby unit, 24-hour inpatient children’s services, emergency general surgery and comprehensive emergency care.

For decades it functioned as the county’s main acute hospital.

Today it still delivers vital care — but its role has changed significantly.

Over the past 12 years, a series of decisions have altered the scope of services, with campaigners describing the process as the gradual “salamislicing” of the hospital.

Health leaders say changes have been driven by patient safety concerns, national workforce shortages and the need to deliver sustainable specialist services.

Critics argue the cumulative effect has been a steady centralisation of care away from Pembrokeshire, particularly towards Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen.

The latest decision to remove emergency general surgery has brought that long-running debate sharply back into focus.

TiMElinE: HOW SERviCES HavE CHangEd

2014 — COnSulTanT-lEd MaTERniTy and SCbu WiTHdRaWn

One of the most controversial changes came when consultant-led obstetric services and the Special Care Baby Unit were removed.

They were replaced with a midwifeled unit for low-risk births only.

High-risk pregnancies, complex deliveries and babies needing specialist care were transferred to Carmarthen.

The decision triggered some of the largest healthcare protests ever seen in Pembrokeshire, with marches, public meetings and petitions to the Welsh Government.

Although later evaluations reported high satisfaction among women using the midwife-led unit, concerns about travel distances and emergency risks persisted.

For many residents, this moment marked the beginning of a wider shift in the hospital’s role.

2014 — inPaTiEnT CHildREn’S WaRd ClOSEd

The same year saw the removal of 24-hour inpatient paediatric services.

A Paediatric Ambulatory Care Unit was introduced instead, initially operating from 10:00am to 10:00pm, providing assessment and short-

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stay treatment but no overnight admissions.

Children requiring inpatient care were transferred to Glangwili Hospital. Campaigners warned the paired maternity and paediatric changes were the “thin end of the wedge.”

2016 — PaEdiaTRiC uniT HOuRS REduCEd

Opening hours for paediatric ambulatory services were reduced further to approximately 10:00am to 6:00pm because of staffing shortages.

The change was described as temporary at the time.

Staffing improvements announced in 2025 allowed the service to expand again, but full inpatient paediatric provision has not returned.

Late 2010s — Plans raise fears of hospital downgrading

The Hywel Dda University Health Board launched its “Transforming Clinical Services” programme, exploring major changes across west Wales hospitals.

Some options would have reduced Withybush to a community-style hospital with fewer acute functions, while concentrating specialist care elsewhere.

Plans also included a proposed new regional “border hospital” serving Pembrokeshire and south Ceredigion, potentially near Narberth or St Clears.

on emergency department capacity, patient flow and governance during winter demand surges.

2025 — COnSulTaTiOn On ninE “FRagilE” SERviCES

The Health Board consulted communities on potential changes affecting nine services including emergency general surgery, stroke care and critical care.

Officials described the services as fragile and at risk of becoming unsustainable in their existing form.

More than 190 alternative ideas were submitted by the public during the consultation process.

February 2026 — Emergency general surgery removed

Following a two-day board meeting on Feb 18 and 19, emergency general surgery operations were removed from Withybush.

Patients requiring emergency surgery will now be transferred to other hospitals, mainly Glangwili.

Same-day emergency care services are expected to be strengthened locally. Board members were told the decision was about improving quality and safety.

Health Board Chief Executive Phil Kloer said proposals were aimed at improving care for patients, while clinicians raised concerns about alternative models such as alternating emergency surgery between hospitals on different weeks.

POliTiCal baCKlaSH and REaCTiOnS

Local Senedd Member Paul Davies said he was “appalled” by the decision. He said: “I’m appalled that Hywel Dda University Health Board has voted

to remove general emergency services from Withybush Hospital — but I’m not surprised.”

Plaid Cymru representatives also expressed disappointment, with calls for the decision to be reconsidered.

Earlier in January 2026, Mr Davies and fellow Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz had warned that maintaining emergency services at Withybush was a “red line.”

Mr Davies has said he will now seek Welsh Government intervention.

THE “SalaMi-SliCing” aRguMEnT

Campaign group Save Withybush Action Team (SWAT) has used the phrase “salami slicing” for more than a decade.

The term reflects the belief that no single decision closes the hospital — but each change reduces its capability, making further changes easier.

Campaigners have previously warned this could create a cycle where:

• services reduce

• recruitment becomes harder

• fragility increases

• further centralisation follows

Health Board leaders reject the accusation, saying decisions are based on clinical evidence, workforce realities and patient safety.

RuRal REaliTiES dRiving COnCERn

Pembrokeshire’s geography plays a major role in public anxiety.

The county is large and rural, with limited public transport and long travel distances to alternative hospitals.

Campaigners argue centralisation risks:

• longer ambulance journeys

• delays in time-critical conditions

• additional hardship for elderly or low-income residents

• challenges during winter weather

• increased pressure during tourist season population surges

Critics also warn that removing services can undermine the longterm sustainability of the emergency department, even where no formal A&E closure is proposed.

WHaT SERviCES REMain aT WiTHybuSH

Despite the changes, the hospital continues to provide major local healthcare services including:

• a 24-hour emergency department

• same-day emergency care

• a midwife-led maternity unit

• outpatient clinics and diagnostics

•some planned and elective treatments

However, it no longer operates as the comprehensive district general hospital it once was.

dEbaTE FaR FROM OvER

For many residents, Withybush is more than a hospital.

It represents fairness, access and confidence that rural communities receive equal healthcare provision.

The tension between clinical centralisation and local provision remains one of the most politically sensitive issues in west Wales.

The latest decision is unlikely to be the final chapter.

Changes will bring ‘resilience and sustainability’

THE EXECuTivE diRECTOR of Strategy and Planning at Hywel dda university Health board has defended the decision to transfer certain emergency surgery operations from Withybush Hospital, saying the changes are designed to strengthen services rather than remove them.

Lee Davies told The Herald the “single biggest change” people in west Wales will notice is increased resilience across hospital services.

“The most significant change will be increased resilience and sustainability across services in West Wales,” he said.

“We are strengthening the way services are delivered so that they are less vulnerable to staffing pressures and more consistently available.”

WHy nOW?

Mr Davies said the decision was driven by concerns that some services had become overly dependent on small numbers of clinicians.

“Wales covers a large geographical

Seren Baker seren@herald.email

area, and currently many services are delivered across multiple sites,” he said.

“That has meant that clinical teams are often spread thinly, with some services heavily dependent on a small number of individuals.

“As a result, those services can become vulnerable if staffing circumstances change.”

He added that in certain areas, performance was not matching standards seen in larger UK centres.

“These changes are necessary to strengthen our services, improve sustainability, and ensure we consistently meet high standards of care.”

EMERgEnCy SuRgERy aT WiTHybuSH

Mr Davies confirmed that patients requiring certain general surgery operations will now be transferred to

Glangwili Hospital.

However, he rejected suggestions that this amounted to the removal of all emergency surgical care from Pembrokeshire.

“This does not mean that all emergency surgery activity will cease at Withybush Hospital,” he said.

“A small number of patients who require operative procedures will be transferred to Glangwili. Where appropriate, patients will be transferred back to Withybush at the earliest opportunity.”

He acknowledged that some residents may perceive the change as a loss.

“We recognise that some people may see this as a loss,” he said.

“Rather than reacting to staffing pressures in an unplanned way, we are proactively designing a more sustainable and stable model. We believe this approach will provide safer, higher-quality care for the people of Pembrokeshire.”

Reassurance over local hospitals

Asked whether any hospital would lose services under the wider Clinical

Services Plan, Mr Davies said no community would lose access.

“There will be changes to how services are provided across West Wales,” he said.

“However, no community will lose access to services. In some cases, services may be delivered in a different location or in a different way.”

He added that all four main hospital sites would continue to play a “vital and important role”.

MOniTORing OuTCOMES

Mr Davies said the board had established baseline quality and safety data ahead of the changes and would closely monitor performance.

“We have defined outcome measures and performance expectations,” he said.

“As we move into the improvement phase, we will evaluate whether the changes are delivering anticipated improvements in quality, safety and patient experience.”

Opinion: Pembrokeshire deserves better than health services endlessly in decline

For more than a decade, services at Withybush have been reduced while promises of improvement remain unfulfilled and public trust is wearing thin

THERE is a growing sense across Pembrokeshire that no matter what promises are made, healthcare services here only ever seem to move in one direction — backwards.

This week’s decision by Hywel Dda University Health Board on February 19, 2026, to remove emergency general surgery from Withybush Hospital is not an isolated event. It is the latest chapter in a story residents know all too well.

For more than a decade, people in this county have watched services gradually disappear: consultant-led maternity, the Special Care Baby Unit, inpatient children’s services — and now emergency surgery.

Each decision has been presented as necessary. Each one justified on grounds of safety, staffing shortages or sustainability.

And yet the outcome is always the same: Pembrokeshire loses something.

At The Herald, we do not make that statement lightly. Since 2014, we have reported on every development — the protests, the packed public meetings, the consultations, the board decisions. We have interviewed senior clinicians, chief executives and health board members.

We know what promises were made. And we have seen what followed.

That long view reveals something individual announcements often obscure. Residents are told changes will improve care or lead to better outcomes. But from the perspective of patients and families, things rarely feel improved.

Travel distances get longer. Waiting times remain difficult. Ambulance pressures continue. Anxiety about access grows — especially for those in remote communities facing poor roads, winter weather, or limited transport. For elderly residents without cars, and for families with young children, the strain is real. During tourism peaks, pressures only increase.

Trust, once lost, is hard to rebuild.

One of the deepest frustrations is that assurances of future improvement never quite materialise. The longdiscussed new hospital remains years away at best. Recruitment challenges persist. Temporary measures quietly become permanent realities.

What begins as reassurance often

ends as another reduction.

None of this denies the genuine challenges facing the NHS. Workforce shortages are real. Rural healthcare is difficult to sustain. Clinical standards must come first.

But fairness matters too.

Pembrokeshire is a large rural county with unique geographic challenges, seasonal pressures and communities that deserve confidence in local services.

People understand healthcare must evolve. What they struggle to accept is a situation where change repeatedly means less provision here.

Local MSs Paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz had warned ahead of the vote that undermining Withybush

would cross a “red line.” Paul Davies described the outcome as “appalling but not surprising.” Plaid Cymru’s Kerry Ferguson urged the board to reconsider.

Yet here we are — another acute service shifted away, primarily to Glangwili.

That reality now shapes public confidence. And confidence matters. Healthcare relies not only on clinical outcomes but on public trust. When communities feel decisions are predetermined, consultation loses meaning. When residents believe their county is continually losing out, resentment grows.

The danger is not just political anger. It is disengagement — the belief that nothing will change no matter what people say or do.

Pembrokeshire deserves better than that.

It deserves clarity about the longterm vision for healthcare in the county. Honesty about what can and cannot be delivered locally. Genuine effort to protect services wherever possible.

Withybush still provides a 24-hour emergency department, midwife-led maternity and vital outpatient care. But each loss chips away at confidence in its future.

The people of this county are resilient, pragmatic and realistic. But patience is not unlimited.

When every few years brings another reduction, the question becomes unavoidable:

When do things finally start getting better?

Stroke patients to be transferred to Carmarthen under new health plan

PEMbROKESHiRE patients who suffer a stroke are set to be transferred out of county for specialist treatment under major changes approved this week by the Hywel dda university Health board.

Under the new arrangements, patients suspected of having a stroke will still receive initial emergency assessment and treatment at Withybush Hospital. However, those needing specialist stroke care will then be moved to Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, which is expected to become the main specialist stroke centre for the region.

Health leaders say concentrating specialist services in one location will improve outcomes by ensuring patients are treated by dedicated teams.

But concerns are likely to be raised in

Pembrokeshire, where travel distances can be significant and ambulance journeys lengthy, particularly from rural communities.

Proposals to develop enhanced stroke rehabilitation services at Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth are still subject to further risk assessment and consultation.

The decisions were approved at an extraordinary meeting of the Hywel Dda University Health Board held over two days on Wednesday and Thursday (Feb 18–19). The same meeting also confirmed that certain emergency general surgery procedures will no longer take place at Withybush Hospital, with patients requiring operations expected to be transferred to Glangwili in Carmarthen.

Reform’s Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire chairman resigns

Former General Election candidate steps down after just a few months in role as party faces upcoming electoral tests

THE CHaiRMan of Reform uK’s Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire branch has resigned after only

a few months in the role — just months before the crucial Senedd elections.

Rieve Nesbitt-Marr rieve.nesbitt-marr@herald.email

Stuart Marchant, who stood as the party’s candidate for Mid and South Pembrokeshire in the July 2024 General Election, confirmed he has stepped down from the position he has held since being elected chairman in October 2025.

Mr Marchant received almost 8,000 votes at the General Election, finishing third out of eight candidates. He later helped establish the Reform UK branch covering Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire in September 2024, initially serving as interim chairman before being formally elected.

In his resignation statement, he said he was no longer able to balance the demands of the role with his professional and personal commitments, adding that the position required someone able to devote full time and energy to it.

He said: “I have reached the conclusion that I am no longer able to balance the demands of the role — or the approach required to take the branch to the next stage — alongside

my professional and personal commitments. The role deserves the full attention and energy of someone who can give it without compromise, and at this time I cannot do so.”

Mr Marchant said he remained proud of what had been achieved locally and thanked members for their support during his time in office. He added that he had confidence the branch would continue to grow under new leadership.

His resignation comes at a significant time for the party locally, with campaigning expected to intensify ahead of the Senedd elections later this year.

There is also an important local electoral test on the horizon, with a by-election due to take place in Hakin, Milford Haven, following the death of respected councillor Mike Stoddart. Reform UK is understood to be hoping to field a candidate, although no selection has yet been confirmed. Reform UK has not yet announced who will replace Mr Marchant as chairman of the Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire branch.

Kurtz secures in-person assessment for banking hub

SaMuEl KuRTZ MS has secured confirmation that cash access network linK will carry out an inperson assessment in Pembroke dock as part of the town’s bid for a banking Hub.

The confirmation came during an online meeting with LINK on Monday (Feb 17), after the Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire Senedd Member wrote to the organisation’s Chief Executive requesting that the reassessment — which can only be triggered after a twelve-month period — should include a site visit.

Pembroke Dock has been without face-to-face banking services since the closure of its last branch, with campaigners warning that older residents, vulnerable people and small businesses have been left struggling to access cash and in-person support.

Mr Kurtz, who has been involved in the campaign for more than a year, said the visit would allow LINK

Rieve Nesbitt-Marr rieve.nesbitt-marr@herald.email

representatives to see the situation first-hand.

“This is a significant step forward for Pembroke Dock. The in-person assessment means LINK will see the impact of losing the town’s last bank and hear directly from those affected,” he said.

“Not everyone can bank online or travel to Carmarthen when there’s a problem. This visit will ensure local voices are heard.”

More than 1,500 residents and businesses have signed a petition supporting the call for a Banking Hub, underlining what campaigners say is strong local demand for accessible cash services.

Mr Kurtz added: “This isn’t just about Pembroke Dock — the wider South Pembrokeshire area relies on these services. A face-to-face

assessment will make sure LINK understands the reality on the ground and the number of people who would use this facility.”

Teen girl sentenced after assaulting police officer and shop theft

a 15-yEaR-Old girl has appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court charged with assaulting a police officer by kicking him.

The teenager, who cannot be named

for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to common assault after the officer sustained reddening and bleeding to his leg.

She also admitted obstructing a police officer in the execution of his duty and

stealing a Bluetooth LED speaker to the value of £18 from B&M Bargains in Haverfordwest.

After considering the case, District Judge Mark Layton sentenced the girl to

The site visit is seen as a key milestone in efforts to restore banking provision to the town and surrounding communities.

Neyland stalker admits harassment of Milford Haven woman

a Man has admitted stalking a woman over a two-month period in neyland and has been placed on conditional bail ahead of sentencing.

Andrew Richards, aged 39, of High Street, Neyland, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Feb 16), where he pleaded guilty to stalking without fear, alarm or distress.

The court heard that between December 2, 2025 and February 15, 2026, Richards pursued a course of conduct which amounted to the stalking of a female in Milford Haven.

The offence falls under Section 2A of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

Magistrates adjourned the case

Court Reporter

for a pre-sentence report to be prepared and remanded Richards on conditional bail.

As part of those conditions, he must not contact the complainant directly or indirectly and must not post anything on social media relating to her.

He is also banned from entering Milford Haven town unless attending pre-arranged medical appointments.

Richards was ordered to live and sleep each night at his home address in Neyland while on bail.

The case will return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for sentencing on Monday, March 9.

Repeat drug-driver banned for three years after Pembroke stop

a 35-yEaR-Old Pembrokeshire motorist has been disqualified from driving after being caught behind the wheel while over the legal drugdrive limit.

Police received information on November 11 that David Webb had been driving a Kia Sorento along Buttermilk Lane, Pembroke, after taking drugs.

When stopped by officers, Webb admitted he had smoked cannabis the previous night. A roadside drug swipe tested positive, and subsequent blood analysis at the police station revealed 101 micrograms of benzoylecgonine a cocaine metabolite per litre of blood,

along with 2.3 micrograms of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The legal limits are 50 and 2 micrograms respectively.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard this was Webb’s second drug-driving conviction, following a previous offence in October 2023.

Webb, of Strongbow Walk, Pembroke, was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order requiring him to complete 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and 100 hours of unpaid work.

He was disqualified from driving for three years and ordered to pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.

Driver banned after refusing breath test despite admitting drinking

a PEMbROKESHiRE motorist has been banned from the roads after repeatedly refusing to provide a breath sample despite admitting he had been drinking alcohol.

Police were called to Glenview Avenue, Pembroke Dock, on the evening of January 3 following a report from a member of the public who was concerned about a man sitting in a car who appeared to be under the influence.

Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court that officers found the man, later identified as Sean Cook, appearing intoxicated while sitting in the vehicle.

“He appeared to be intoxicated and said he was listening to the radio,” she said.

Cook told officers he was not fit to drive because he had consumed alcohol. He was asked on three separate occasions to provide a breath test but refused each time.

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

The court heard he was obstructive throughout the encounter and refused to answer questions about his alcohol consumption.

Following his arrest, Cook was taken to Haverfordwest Police Station where he damaged a custody cell blanket by pulling out its stitching.

Cook, aged 58, of Glenview House, Glenview Avenue, Pembroke Dock, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis and causing criminal damage.

He was disqualified from driving for 18 months and sentenced to a 12-month Community Order, which includes 10 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and a 120-day Alcohol Abstinence Monitoring Requirement.

He was also ordered to pay £100 compensation for the damaged blanket, a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.

Woman, 79, made 141 unnecessary 999 calls putting lives at risk, court hears

a 79-yEaR-Old Pembrokeshire woman has admitted putting lives at risk after making more than 140 unnecessary calls to the emergency services over a 12-month period.

Ann Gately made a total of 141 calls to 999 between November 2024 and November 2025, including 26 calls over just two days between November 24 and 26.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that each call was made from her home in Chapel Hill Lane, Templeton.

Appearing before District Judge Mark Layton, Gately pleaded guilty to persistently making use of a public communications network to cause annoyance, inconvenience and anxiety.

She was represented by defence solicitor Tom Lloyd, who told the court his client had recently undergone a memory assessment which produced a low score. The report suggested this could be linked either to the onset

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

of dementia or significant alcohol consumption.

During the hearing, Gately was heard muttering: “I could do with a drink now, to be honest,” as mitigation was presented.

She was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order, which includes 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days. She was also ordered to pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.

Passing sentence, District Judge Mark Layton criticised her behaviour and warned of the wider consequences.

“You’re just making a nuisance of yourself again,” he said.

“You’re drinking, you’re getting drunk, you’re phoning the emergency services and their time is being wasted coming to you. People with genuine concerns aren’t able to get through and that might include someone

in need of an ambulance or the fire service.

“Your actions are causing problems… real emergencies are being delayed, and that can cost lives.”

Teen given community order after assaulting police officer at hospital

a TEEnagER from neyland has been given a community order after admitting assaulting a police officer at Withybush Hospital.

Luke Davies, aged 18, of Springfield Avenue, Neyland, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Feb 16) for sentencing.

The court heard that on July 9, 2025, at Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest, Davies assaulted PC Elliot Jamie Williams while the officer was acting in the execution of his duty.

The offence is contrary to section 89(1) of the Police Act 1996.

Davies had previously pleaded guilty to the charge on January 6,

Magistrates imposed a community order running until August 15, 2027. The order includes participation in drug rehabilitation and alcohol treatment programmes for six months, both to be carried out as directed by probation, along with regular court reviews. He must also complete up to 20 days of rehabilitation activity requirements.

Davies was ordered to pay £200 compensation and £85 prosecution costs.

The case will return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for review on March 16 at 10:00am.

Harbour collision sailor admits navigating at dangerous speed

a SailOR has admitted navigating his vessel at a speed likely to endanger others after a collision with a moored boat at Milford Haven waterfront.

Nolan Orford was the master of the vessel Andy 02 when it entered Milford Haven on June 4. District Judge Mark Layton was told that the speed at which Orford was travelling failed to comply with directions lawfully given by the harbourmaster under the Milford Haven Conservancy Act 1983.

Orford, of The Great Barn, Bishton

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

Village, Newport, pleaded guilty to manoeuvring his vessel at a speed likely to cause damage, danger or inconvenience to others, making a direct impact with a vessel that was on its moorings, and failing to report the collision to the harbourmaster. Sentencing was adjourned until March 5 because Orford is currently abroad and was unable to attend court for the hearing.

Ex-councillor Brian Rothero disqualified for three years after code breaches upheld

a FORMER neyland town councillor has been banned from holding public office for three years after an adjudication Panel for Wales tribunal found he breached multiple provisions of the authority’s Code of Conduct.

Brian Rothero, who resigned from Neyland Town Council in 2025 while the investigation was ongoing, was disqualified following a remote hearing held on Wednesday (Feb 12).

The panel ruled unanimously that Mr Rothero had failed to show respect and consideration towards the council’s clerk and fellow councillors, had engaged in behaviour amounting to bullying or harassment, and had acted in a way that could bring his office or the authority into disrepute.

The sanction prevents him from acting as a councillor in any relevant authority in Wales until early 2029.

The case arose from four complaints referred by the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales between September 2023 and March 2024.

TRibunal FindingS

According to the Notice of Decision, the panel found breaches of:

• Paragraph 4(b) — failure to show respect and consideration

• Paragraph 4(c) — bullying or harassment

• Paragraph 6(1)(a) — bringing the office into disrepute

• Paragraph 6(1)(d) — making vexatious or inappropriate complaints

The tribunal concluded Mr Rothero had communicated with the council clerk and colleagues in a manner inconsistent with the standards expected of elected members.

The hearing was conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams

hearing took place on papers without witnesses, unlike the recent two-day in-person tribunal involving former councillor David Devauden.

resignations and ongoing governance difficulties.

PERCEPTiOn OF inFluEnCE

Observers have also noted that official council communications are frequently issued under a collective sign-off placing the clerk’s name before the mayor and councillors — a format that has contributed to perceptions among some members and residents about where day-to-day influence within the council sits.

Legally, elected councillors remain the decision-making body, with the clerk acting as the authority’s senior officer and adviser.

WidER COnTEXT

and proceeded largely on written submissions rather than oral witness evidence.

The panel was chaired by Judge Meleri Tudur, sitting with members Ms S Hurds and Mrs S McRobie.

Mr Rothero has the right to seek permission to appeal to the High Court, although no appeal has yet been confirmed.

ROTHERO diSPuTES FindingS

Speaking to The Pembrokeshire Herald on Monday (Feb 16), Mr Rothero rejected the bullying allegations and said his actions consisted of emails raising concerns about council administration.

“I wasn’t bullying anyone — I was trying to get answers and get things done,” he said.

He argued that frustration arose because of what he described as repeated non-responses to issues he raised.

Mr Rothero also questioned the fairness of the process, noting that his

Procedural differences between the two cases may form part of any future appeal.

lOng-Running TEnSiOnS

The ruling is the latest development in years of conflict within Neyland Town Council, which has generated an unusually high number of standards complaints compared with other community councils in Pembrokeshire.

Mr Rothero previously faced a standards investigation relating to the Neyland Community Hub project nearly a decade ago, resulting in a censure in 2018.

More recent disputes have centred on relationships between councillors and the town clerk, with leaked correspondence revealing frustrations on multiple sides over workload, communication and expectations.

The Herald understands that interpersonal tensions within the authority have contributed to

Mr Rothero’s disqualification follows the recent four-year ban imposed on former councillor David Devauden in a separate but related case involving similar allegations. Together, the decisions underline the scale of governance challenges that have affected Neyland Town Council in recent years.

Community councils rely heavily on volunteer elected members supported by a small number of paid staff, usually one clerk, a structure that can magnify personality clashes and operational pressures when relationships break down.

The full written reasons from the Adjudication Panel for Wales are expected to be published in due course.

For Neyland Town Council, the latest ruling closes another chapter in a prolonged period of internal conflict, although questions remain about whether deeper structural issues within the authority have been resolved.

The Herald will continue to monitor developments.

Police appeal after man injured in St Davids incident

dyFEd-POWyS POliCE are appealing for witnesses following an incident in St davids which left one man injured.

The incident happened in Nun Street at around 11:10am on Tuesday, December 30. The injured man was taken to hospital for treatment.

Officers confirmed that a man has been arrested on suspicion of assault

in connection with the incident.

Police are now asking anyone with information, dash cam footage, or CCTV that could assist the investigation to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online at: https://www.dyfed-powys.police.

uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contactus/

Alternatively, email 101@dyfedpowys.police.uk, send a direct message via social media, or call 101 quoting reference DP20251230094. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk. org.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Teenage protester jailed after motorway and railway disruption offences

a TEEnagER from Pembroke dock has been jailed for eighteen weeks after admitting offences which caused serious disruption to both road and rail networks.

Jeylane Bamford, aged eighteen, formerly of Britannia Drive, Pembroke Dock, appeared for sentencing at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Feb 16).

The court heard that on January 24, 2026, Bamford walked into a live lane of the A1(M) at Hatfield, Hertfordshire, interfering with the operation of key national infrastructure. The offence

was prosecuted under the Public Order Act 2023.

Magistrates were told the incident created a serious risk to road users and caused significant disruption to services.

Bamford also admitted a separate offence committed on January 14, 2026, at Cartlett railway station in Haverfordwest, where she trespassed on the railway and obstructed an engine or carriage, contrary to the

Malicious Damage Act 1861.

A further charge of intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance — relating to lying in the live carriageway of the A1(M) — was also taken into account.

The bench said the offences were so serious that only an immediate custodial sentence could be justified, citing disregard for public safety and the scale of disruption caused.

Bamford received a total custodial sentence of eighteen weeks’ imprisonment, with the terms to run concurrently. No order for costs was made due to her lack of means and the immediate custody imposed.

District Judge Alaw Harries presided, sitting with magistrates Dr S Hancock, Mr D Fawcett and Mr R John. The prosecution was conducted by Sian Vaughan.

Man who threw corrosive liquid at guest and fled abroad jailed

a buSinESSMan who threw a corrosive liquid into a guest’s face during a row at a spiritual retreat before fleeing the country has been jailed for 18 months.

Dean Mayze, aged 38, from Abercrave in Powys, admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm following the attack at his Hafan-y-Coed retreat in December 2022.

Swansea Crown Court heard the assault happened after an argument with guest Keifer Price, who had complained about the condition of his accommodation, including a lack of heating and washing facilities.

During the confrontation, Mayze produced a blue container and threw its contents upwards into the victim’s face.

The liquid — described as smelling like ammonia — entered Mr Price’s eyes, nose and mouth, leaving him in severe pain and struggling to breathe.

Medical evidence confirmed injuries consistent with a chemical burn to both eyes. He suffered abrasions, a corneal defect and the loss of the outer corneal layer in one eye, requiring significant treatment to prevent permanent sight loss. He has since recovered without lasting injury.

FlEd aCROSS EuROPE

Following the attack, Mayze fled the UK, triggering an international search.

The court heard he travelled across

Court Reporter

several European countries, including Ireland, France, Italy, Croatia and Greece, before eventually being arrested in Romania in 2025.

Despite being on the run, he remained in regular contact with police by text and email, at one point telling officers he would not be returning to Wales.

His partner initially claimed responsibility for the assault and later received a suspended prison sentence after admitting perverting the course of justice.

PREviOuS COnviCTiOn

The court was told Mayze has a previous conviction for wounding involving a corrosive substance in Kent in 2013.

Defence barrister Andrew Taylor said his client had experienced harsh conditions while detained in Romania, including contracting scabies without treatment, and described him as remorseful.

However, Judge Geraint Walters said it was “pure luck” the victim had not suffered permanent injuries, describing the attack as a “particularly wicked way of inflicting violence”.

SEnTEnCE and ORdER

The A1(M) at Hatfield was closed, which police said caused significant disruption to road users (Pic: Police)

Court Reporter

Mayze, who appeared via video link from prison, had previously denied a more serious charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He was sentenced to

Independent group threatens to oppose council tax plans over education cuts

THE indEPEndEnT gROuP on Pembrokeshire County Council has warned it will not support the Cabinet’s proposed council tax increases unless planned reductions to the education budget are reversed.

Cabinet has recommended a council tax rise of 4.6% for 2026/27, followed by 5% the following year and potential increases of up to 7.5% in future years. The Independent Group has criticised the proposals, describing them as a “ballot box” budget which they claim postpones difficult financial decisions for future administrations.

The group also said it had not been consulted during the budget process by Council Leader Jon Harvey, despite representing a significant number of councillors.

SaFEguaRding COnCERnS RaiSEd

Councillor Huw Murphy said the group’s main concern relates to education funding, particularly following the recent placement of three Pembrokeshire schools into special measures.

He said: “The seriousness of the situation facing education in Pembrokeshire cannot be overstated. All councillors need to place school safeguarding above party politics.”

The Independent Group argues that reducing the education budget by more than £2 million would be inappropriate at a time when schools face financial pressures and scrutiny from inspectors.

The councillors have called for the proposed savings to be reinvested to help improve standards at Ysgol Harri Tudur, Milford Haven School and the Pembrokeshire Learning Centre in Neyland, as well as addressing wider infrastructure concerns including building maintenance issues at several schools across the county.

budgET PRESSuRES aCKnOWlEdgEd

The group acknowledged efforts

by the council’s finance leadership to achieve savings, noting projections that the authority could finish the financial year under budget.

However, Councillor Murphy questioned whether some efficiencies may have affected services, including education provision and safeguarding.

He also highlighted that councillors had previously reduced proposed education cuts during last year’s budget process following cross-party support.

Political tensions

The statement also criticised the position of councillors from other parties, questioning whether Labour and Plaid members would support reductions in education spending given the current challenges facing schools.

It further referenced previous proposals from Liberal Democrats councillors for higher council tax increases to protect school funding, suggesting the current position appeared inconsistent.

The Independent Group says it will only support the budget if education cuts are removed, placing what it describes as safeguarding, wellbeing and educational attainment as its priority.

The Herald has approached Pembrokeshire County Council for comment.

Cllr Huw Murphy

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Press regulator backs Herald reporting following Ajay Owen complaint

THE uK’s independent press regulator has rejected a complaint from ajay Owen about a Pembrokeshire Herald article, concluding there were no grounds to investigate any breach of the Editors’ Code of Practice.

The complaint related to an article published on November 25, 2025, headlined “SARS boss published children’s photos, named socialworkers and claims ‘legal trafficking’”.

After reviewing the complaint, the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) determined that the concerns raised did not identify a possible breach of the Code, including allegations relating to accuracy and privacy.

Accuracy complaints dismissed Mr Owen argued that the article was inaccurate in several respects, including references to photographs of children appearing in social media posts, concerns raised by residents, and the description of a contact number as a personal number.

IPSO found that where it was not disputed that posts included images containing children, it was not inaccurate or misleading to report that photographs of children had been published.

The regulator also concluded it was not significantly inaccurate to report that concerns had been raised by residents in both Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, noting the central point was that community members

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had expressed concerns.

IPSO further found no significant inaccuracy in describing a contact number linked to the organisation as a personal number.

In relation to references to named social workers appearing in posts, IPSO noted that Mr Owen appeared to accept posting the names, and therefore it was not misleading to report concerns raised by residents about that action.

Mr Owen also alleged a breach of privacy over the publication of an image showing him alongside a logo and signature.

IPSO concluded that the photograph was clearly a public-facing professional headshot connected to his role, and therefore there was no reasonable expectation of privacy.

Because IPSO determined the complaint did not raise a possible breach of the Editors’ Code, the regulator decided there were no grounds to open a formal investigation.

Mr Owen has the right to request a review of the decision by IPSO’s Complaints Committee within seven days.

A spokesperson for The Herald said: “We welcome IPSO’s decision, which confirms that our reporting met the required standards of accuracy and responsible journalism.”

Man denies serious child sex charges

a MilFORd HavEn man, now living in Cornwall, has denied a series of serious sexual offences involving a teenage girl, along with alleged breaches of a court order imposed following a previous conviction.

James Kershaw, aged 45, formerly of Lower Priory, appeared before Swansea Crown Court on Monday (Feb 16).

He pleaded not guilty to all counts on the indictment, which prosecutors allege relate to sexual communication and activity involving a girl aged 13 in 2023, as well as two alleged breaches of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

The charges include sexual communication with a child between October 26 and November 1, 2023, causing a child to watch a sexual act in October 2023, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of breaching an SHPO by creating a social media account and possessing an internet-enabled device without approval.

During the hearing, His Honour Judge Huw Rees granted Kershaw bail with conditions, including a prohibition on contacting prosecution witnesses.

A trial date has been fixed for October 5, 2026.

Break-in at home of deceased woman leads to sentence for Dock man

a PEMbROKE dOCK man has been sentenced after breaking into the home of a woman who had died weeks earlier.

John Ashby, aged 38 and currently of no fixed abode, was arrested on June 12, 2025, after police received a 999 call reporting he had forced entry into a property at Laws Street, Pembroke Dock. The owner of the house had passed away a few weeks before the incident.

When officers attended, they found rear windows had been smashed. Blood traces recovered from the scene were sent for forensic analysis, which led police to Ashby.

Appearing before magistrates this

week, Ashby pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage. He was represented by defence solicitor Michael Kelleher.

Mr Kelleher told the court his client had been released from prison on the day of the incident and that the deceased woman had been his former partner.

“He returned to the property feeling extremely upset that she had died and that all of his belongings were inside the building,” he said.

Ashby was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge. He must also pay £293.57 compensation for the damage caused to the property.

Man who attacked woman outside Milford Haven bar ‘shows no remorse whatsoever’

a Man who was found guilty of causing serious injuries to a woman outside a Milford Haven bar has had his sentencing postponed after a judge ordered further medical evidence to be obtained.

Ben Jenkins, aged 27, of St Lawrence Avenue, Hakin, appeared before Swansea Crown Court on Monday (Feb 16) for sentencing after being convicted of causing grievous bodily harm to a female motorist outside the Nos Da Bar on Victoria Road, Milford Haven, on Guy Fawkes Night, November 5, 2023.

The court heard the case had been listed for sentence, but proceedings were halted part-way through the prosecution’s reading of the victim personal statement when new details emerged about the ongoing impact of the injuries.

Prosecutors told the court that the victim continues to suffer significant facial deformity more than two years after the incident, including a swollen cheek, an altered smile, and the presence of a bone fragment lodged within her sinus cavity.

At that stage, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC intervened and directed that updated medical reports must be obtained before the court could properly assess the seriousness of the injuries and determine an appropriate sentence.

The victim’s statement described the profound physical and psychological consequences of the assault. She told the court that her confidence had

been shattered and that her “world has become small”, with day-to-day life affected by pain, anxiety, and ongoing medical uncertainty.

Judge Thomas said the court required further clarification on the permanence and long-term prognosis of the injuries before sentence could be passed. He also made clear his concern about the defendant’s attitude.

“Ben Jenkins still shows no remorse whatsoever,” the judge remarked, indicating this would be a relevant factor when sentencing eventually takes place.

The hearing was adjourned to allow medical evidence to be obtained, and the case will now return to Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on April 17.

Jenkins remains on bail pending the next hearing.

Milford Haven Hakin by-election candidates confirmed

THE LIST of candidates standing in the upcoming Pembrokeshire County Council by-election for the Milford Haven: Hakin ward has been published.

Nominations have now closed, and the official Statement of Persons Nominated has been released by the local authority.

Eight candidates will contest the seat. They are:

• Derrick Abbott – Independent

• Sam Booth – Wales Green Party

• Lee James Bridges –Independent

• Duncan Edwards – Independent

• Nicola Catherine Harteveld –Welsh Labour

• Brian Taylor – Welsh Conservative Party

• Scott Thorley – Reform UK

• Sam Warden – Welsh Liberal Democrats

The by-election will take place on Tuesday, March 17.

Residents wishing to vote must ensure they are registered by midnight on Friday, February 27. Applications

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can be made online via the UK Government website.

Applications for new postal votes, or changes to existing postal voting arrangements, must be received

by 5:00pm on Monday, March 2. Applications to vote by proxy must be submitted by 5:00pm on Monday, March 9.

Poll cards will be sent to registered electors ahead of the election. The council has confirmed that registered 16 and 17-year-olds, along with qualifying foreign nationals, are eligible

to vote in this election.

Photographic identification will not be required at polling stations.

The full Statement of Persons Nominated, including full party descriptions, is available on the Pembrokeshire County Council website.

Independent Group reshuffle as council tax budget battle looms

PEMbROKESHiRE County Council’s independent group has confirmed a change in its leadership arrangements following a meeting held on Tuesday (Feb 18), with the changes taking effect from March 23, 2026.

Cllr Anji Tinley will become Group Leader, while Cllr Elwyn Morse will serve as Deputy Group Leader and take on the role of Chair of the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Cllr Michael John will remain Chair of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and Cllr Huw Murphy will become Chair of the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

The changes reflect the forthcoming appointment of Cllr Delme Harries as Chair of Council at the Annual Meeting on May 15. Under council rules, the

Chair of Council cannot simultaneously hold a scrutiny chair role.

The Independent Group also confirmed it will not support the Cabinet’s proposed budget, which includes a 4.6% council tax rise for 2026/27 and a 2% reduction — approximately £2 million — in individual school budgets.

Group members said they hoped councillors across the chamber could work together to agree a budget that

avoids cuts to education, particularly in light of recent Estyn inspections that have placed three schools into special measures with safeguarding concerns identified.

However, the Group warned that if a budget is approved that imposes what it described as substantial school funding reductions, it will consider invoking constitutional powers to bring forward a motion to rescind the decision.

Cllr Anji Tinley

Sexual assault allegation to be tried

a SEXual assault allegation has been listed for trial following a hearing before magistrates.

David Fletcher, 45, of Chestnut Way, Mount Estate, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, appeared before magistrates in Llanelli on Thursday (Feb 12) charged with sexual assault, contrary to section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

The charge alleges that on March 16, 2025, at Johnston, Pembrokeshire, he intentionally touched a woman aged 16 or over and that the touching was sexual when she did not consent and he did not reasonably believe that she was

consenting.

The matter was adjourned for trial and Fletcher was remanded on conditional bail.

The trial is listed for March 9, 2026 at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. Bail conditions prohibit him from entering a specified premises in Johnston, from contacting directly or indirectly the complainant or any prosecution witnesses, and from posting any information relating to the investigation on social media. The conditions were imposed to prevent further offending and to prevent interference with witnesses or obstruction of justice.

Drink drive allegation denied

a MOTORiST has denied a drinkdriving allegation when the case came before magistrates.

Michael Miles, 39, of Milford Road, Johnston, Haverfordwest, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court charged with driving a motor vehicle when the alcohol level was above the prescribed limit.

The court heard that on January 24, 2026, it is alleged that Miles drove a Ford Transit on the A477 at

Jordanston after consuming so much alcohol, that the proportion in his breath was 52 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35.

Miles entered a not guilty plea on February 10, 2026.

The matter was adjourned for trial on May 21 at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court. He was remanded on unconditional bail.

Development above CKs Foodstores, Milford Haven, approved

PLANS for five flats above a supermarket in the centre of Milford Haven have been approved.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, CKs Foodstores Ltd, through agent Josephine Davies, sought approval for a change of use of a first-floor supermarket shop store area to five studio flats at 55-57, Charles Street, an amendment from an initial application for six flats.

The application was supported by Milford Haven Town Council.

An officer report recommending approval said a public consultation exercise was held on the initial plans, with one response from a member of the public who “did not raise any objection to the principle of conversion to flats but had concerns with regards to the impact of the proposal upon the privacy of existing nearby occupiers”.

It said that amendment to a smaller number of flats had addressed that concern.

The report added: “It is considered that the proposed layout of the flats is an appropriate response to the building, having regard to its form and scale and its location.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

“New access and window openings have been proposed to accommodate the conversion of the first floor and these are considered appropriate to the proportions of the existing building and will serve to improve its design and appearance by providing variation to the

building fenestration, particularly to the eastern elevation along Priory Street and to the rear onto Robert Street, in turn improving the vitality and animation at street level, uplifting a presently tired and uninspiring building in this prominent corner, town centre location.”

It went on to say: “The introduction of an entrance (which will lead to a stairwell to the commercial unit below)

and patio doors onto private ‘front garden’ areas to flats 4 and 5 will significantly change this area, from the back of a commercial building/service area to a residential frontage which positively addresses Robert Street and the existing residential on the opposite side of the road.”

The application was conditionally approved by county planners.

Pembrokeshire gypsy and traveller pitch increases approved

an inCREaSE in pitch fees and sewerage service charges for gypsy and traveller site in Pembrokeshire has been backed by senior councillors.

At the February meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members were asked to back proposed increases in pitch fees and water and sewerage service charges for gypsy and traveller sites for the forthcoming financial year.

Pembrokeshire manages five Gypsy and Traveller sites with 83 pitches, 77 currently occupied at: Castle Quarry, Under the Hills, Kingsmoor, Waterloo (with one tenant) and Withybush.

“Historically in Pembrokeshire, the basis for increases to Gypsy & Traveller pitch rents and water charges has been to uplift charges annually by CPI inflation,” the report said, adding: “The intention is to continue with this approach. However, it is worth noting that rent levels are currently very low in comparison to the cost that is needed to run, maintain and improve the condition of the sites.

“In addition to this, out of the 21 council-run Gypsy and Traveller sites

in Wales, Pembrokeshire has one of the lowest pitch rent figures. It therefore stands that PCC must therefore increase pitch fees.”

It says investment to improve the sites is taking place, but more investment is needed, with Welsh Government grant funding having been previously secured, £1.005m for 2024-2027, with £278,585 works completed, £335,004 works ongoing to be completed by March 2026, and a further £848,397 works planned for the next two years.

It said it was intended to continue applying for funding, but, if it was not available it would have to come out of the council’s own coffers.

“Without increases to rent levels plus additional investment, we will see a decline in our site conditions as budgets for maintenance will need to be reduced to meet cost reduction/efficiency targets.”

It says the pitch rents, charged over 48 weeks, are currently £55.45 per week, and £84.24 per week for new pitches in Kingsmoor, for all Pembrokeshire sites with the exception of the Waterloo Site, at £65.62 per week.

It says water and sewerage charges are currently £12.78 per pitch per week (48 weeks) for all sites except Waterloo, at £13.09 per week; in 2024-’25 the full year charges increased to £164,653.06, with £38,905.86, costing the council £125,747.20 for water provision (including sewerage).

“It is estimated that figures for 20252026 will see a slight reduction in the subsidisation down to £121,158, but it is recognised that this level of subsidy cannot continue without urgent review of the position.”

Members backed a 3.8 per cent increase in pitch fees to £57.56 for Under the Hills, Castle Quarry and old pitches on Kingsmoor, £87.44 for new pitches on Kingsmoor, and £68.11 for Waterloo.

It also backed water and sewerage charges from £12.78 to £14.24 for Withybush, £16.60 for Kingsmoor, £16.60 for Castle Quarry, and £13.09 for Waterloo to £60, the high cost of the latter currently being investigated.

Driver admits killing dog walker whose body was found in churchyard

a Man has admitted causing the death of a Carmarthenshire dog walker after striking him with a car and leaving the scene.

Daniel Wyke, aged 28, of Carmarthen, appeared before Swansea Crown Court on Monday (Feb 16) where he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

The victim, Aaron Jones, aged 38,

Court Reporter

from Llanpumsaint, was discovered in a churchyard near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel on December 23, 2024 — just days before Christmas.

The court heard that Mr Jones, a father of two, had suffered catastrophic injuries after being struck by a vehicle at around 7:20pm. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Prosecutor Ian Wright told the court there was extensive damage to the

windscreen of the vehicle involved, consistent with a serious impact.

Mr Jones’ body was found after his dog was discovered wandering alone by a passer-by, who contacted his wife and raised the alarm, prompting a search of the area.

Wyke was arrested the following day.

In addition to the fatal collision, he

had also faced a separate allegation of dangerous driving on Water Street in Carmarthen. That charge was denied and remains outstanding.

His Honour Judge Paul Thomas KC granted Wyke bail but imposed an immediate driving disqualification. A provisional sentencing date has been set for March 30.

Tragic: Aaron Jones

Guilty plea: Daniel Wyke

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Svitzer crews at Milford Haven vote for industrial action in pay dispute

S vi TZER crews working in the Port of Milford Haven have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action in a growing dispute over pay, according to u nite the u nion.

The union said members employed by marine services company Svitzer backed action following what it described as a failure to deliver a fair and acceptable pay offer for 2025.

Unite said the workers carry out “highly skilled work that is essential to operations in the Port of Milford Haven” and that members were becoming increasingly frustrated at a lack of meaningful progress in negotiations.

The ballot result does not automatically mean strike action will take place, but it gives the union a mandate to call action if talks do not improve.

Svitzer provides tug services, which play a critical safety role in guiding large vessels, including oil tankers and liquefied natural gas carriers, through the Milford Haven Waterway — one of the UK’s most strategically important energy ports.

The Herald has contacted Svitzer for comment on the potential impact on operations and any contingency planning.

A spokesperson for Unite said

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members had sent a strong message through the ballot and would have the full support of the union in seeking a

fair resolution.

At the time of publication, no dates for possible industrial action had been announced.

The Herald will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “This is a matter for Svitzer and its ongoing pay negotiation process. We will not be making any further comment at this stage”.

Search begins for five bodies possibly buried beneath County Hall car park

a SEaRCH is underway to determine whether the remains of five executed prisoners from the nineteenth century may still lie beneath a council-owned car park in Carmarthen.

A deep-ground scan was carried out at the Carmarthenshire County Hall site on Sunday (Feb 15), where the former Carmarthen prison once stood. The investigation is focusing on the possible burial locations of four convicted murderers and one convicted forger who were executed between 1818 and 1894, when prison gardens occupied the land now used for parking.

The survey was conducted using a

digital

ground-penetrating radar system operated by Shane Gwilt of Leica Geosystems. The findings have been sent overseas for specialist analysis, with results expected within the next week.

County Hall stands on the historic site of Carmarthen Gaol, which closed in 1922. Although the prison buildings were demolished in the 1930s, local historian and former Mayor of Carmarthen, Richard Goodridge, believes the bodies were never exhumed and may remain in their original graves.

Carmarthenshire County Council has confirmed it has no intention of disturbing or removing any remains should they be

identified.

Richard Goodridge said: “I strongly believe, based on the evidence and research I have carried out over the last two years, that the remains of these five convicted felons, hanged for their crimes, still remain where they were buried after their execution.

“It is the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle that, if confirmed, will lay to rest a great mystery that has fascinated Carmarthen residents for over a hundred years. It is unbelievable that the bodies were not exhumed when the prison was demolished.

“Finding them will at least bring to

an end a mystery worthy of a Sherlock Holmes novel.”

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Alun Lenny, said the investigation had been carried out without disruption or cost to the authority.

He said: “The work carried out on Sunday in an attempt to discover the remains of the five executed criminals didn’t disturb the car park surface in any way and was at no cost to the county council. But it may add another chapter to the colourful history of Carmarthen as Wales’ oldest town, so we await the results with anticipation.”

Officer to decide Milford Haven Chinese restaurant housing

THE Final decision on a scheme to convert a vandalised former Pembrokeshire town centre Chinese restaurant to a flat and bedsits will be made by a senior planning officer after a compromise aimed at addressing some concerns raised was offered.

In an application recommended for approval at the February meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Mr S Sahin and Miss S Ahmed, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, sought 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. The application had previously been recommended for approval at the January meeting, but was deferred pending a site visit after 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.

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 development plan policy.

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 added: “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.”

Speaking at the February meeting agent Andrew Vaughan-Harries said, following the site visit, an alternative hip-roof as “a compromise” to lessen the impact on neighbours by reducing the £200,000 investment’s scale and

bulk.

Speaking again at the meeting, Jessica Clarke said she, and her mother, were standing by their previous objections, saying the extra stress to her mother had caused “many sleepless nights” on the impact on her “much-loved home and garden”.

Chair Cllr Mark Carter said the application was “a tough one to determine,” with the benefits of extra homes and investment in a run-down

building the town set against a potential impact on the quality of life for the neighbour.

He said, after having spoken to the chief planning officer, a way forward could be delegation for final approval going to that officer on condition the hip roof design could be formally agreed. Members backed that compromise position, with Cllr Carter expressing his sympathy at the concerns raised by the neighbours.

Richard Goodridge, Shane Gwilt & Alun Lenny at County Hall, Carmarthen (Pic: CCC)

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

MoD plans for Pembrokeshire site submitted to council

PlanS for specialist Mod air traffic radio direction finding equipment works at Pembrokeshire’s Cawdor barracks, where a ‘daRC’ deep space radar facility is proposed, have been submitted to the council.

Cawdor barracks, Brawdy, is occupied by the 14th Signal Regiment who are due to vacate the Barracks in 2028.

A formal screening opinion call, under Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council by agent Montagu Evans on behalf of the

ministry of Defence (MoD) has been submitted relating to renewal works to be undertaken to the air traffic equipment at Cawdor Barracks.

A supporting statement says: “The Ministry of Defence are progressing a full planning application with associated Environmental Statement for a Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) Facility on part of the barracks site.

“ This project has yet to be submitted for approval and is being

brought forward independently of the renewal works to the Radio Direction Finder.

“The Cawdor Barracks airfield includes a Directional Finder (DF) which forms part of the service operated under a requirement from the National Air Traffic Services (NATS) and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

“It forms part of the nation-wide system automatic triangulation and distress, and diversion network regulate by the CAA on behalf of NATS. It is located towards the centre of the airfield.

“The network of DF installations is a civilian rather than military requirement, and allows bearing data to be provided to the Distress and Diversion Cell at NATS Swanwick. This is a national service which locates and supports aircraft in distress and manages the diversion of other aircraft.

“The current DF equipment comprises a 0.5m cabinet for electronics, a counterpose mounted the building which holds the ultrahigh frequency antennas and a mast upon which the antenna array of 18 antennas is mounted.

“The existing DF equipment is reaching the end of its operational life and must be replaced at a manner which allows for continued operations. It is to be replaced with a High-Resolution Direction Finder (HRDF) which is being managed under the Ministry of Defence’s MARSHALL programme.

The new equipment will allow signals to be received from aircraft up to approximately 90 nautical miles (Nm) from the site, providing maximum coverage of the area through including the Bristol Channel and St Georges Channel.

“The existing DF will remain operational during installation of the new equipment. Once the HRDF is operational, the existing system will be decommissioned and removed from the site. Works are to commence in early 2026 and completed by early 2027.”

Review launched into winter gritting for north-east Pembrokeshire roads

PEMbROKESHiRE COunTy

COunCil has agreed to review its winter maintenance strategy for roads in the north and north-east of the county, following concerns that higher-ground communities are more

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

vulnerable to snow and ice disruption. The decision comes after a Notice of Motion was presented by Independent

Group Leader, Councillor Huw Murphy, calling for a reassessment of how the authority manages gritting and salt provision in areas north and north-east of the A40, including the Preseli Mountains and communities such as Crymych and Tegryn.

Council officers and Cabinet members acknowledged that these upland areas experience harsher winter conditions than much of the county and are more likely to become impassable during periods of snowfall and icy weather.

The review will also examine the 2022 removal of the auxiliary salt depot previously located near Crymych. If the review concludes that additional provision is required, a replacement salt tip could potentially be reinstated in the north-east, although not necessarily at the former Llanfyrnach site.

The council expects the review to be completed during the second half of 2026.

Councillor Murphy said he welcomed the response from officers and Cabinet, adding that the issue had significant

implications for residents, businesses and schools in affected areas.

He said: “The higher ground of north-east Pembrokeshire and areas adjacent to the Preseli Hills are more susceptible to closure during periods of poor weather, especially snow and ice. The potential return of an auxiliary salt tip is something that should be seriously considered and would be welcomed by local communities in helping to keep roads passable during difficult conditions.”

He also referenced the severe weather disruption seen during late 2025, which highlighted the challenges faced by rural communities when key routes become blocked.

Pembrokeshire County Council currently operates three winter maintenance zones across the county, but the review aims to determine whether the existing arrangements provide sufficient resilience for the most weather-exposed areas.

Further details are expected once the assessment work progresses later this year.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Sandy Bear charity relocating headquarters as support expands across Wales

Sandy bEaR Children’s bereavement Charity has announced it will relocate its administrative headquarters to narberth in March 2026, as the organisation approaches its ninth year supporting children and young people across Wales.

Founded in Pembrokeshire, Sandy Bear originally supported around fifty children and young people each year. Today, the charity provides bereavement

support to more than 1,000 children and young people annually across multiple regions of Wales.

The move from Milford Haven reflects the charity’s continued growth and its commitment to ensuring resources are used as effectively as possible, allowing greater investment in

The new administrative base will be located at The Old School in Narberth, a community hub managed by PLANED, an organisation Sandy Bear already works closely with through its Carmarthenshire provision.

Lee Barnett, Chief Executive of Sandy Bear, said: “Our priority is, and always will be, the children and young people we support. This move

is not about changing who we are, but about strengthening how we work. By using our resources more effectively, we can reach more families across Pembrokeshire and across Wales while staying focused on our core mission.”

The charity has confirmed the relocation will not affect service delivery across Pembrokeshire. Sandy Bear will continue meeting families and running peer support groups in community settings throughout the county and across Wales.

Welcoming Sandy Bear to The Old School, Iwan Thomas, Chief Executive of PLANED said: “When third sector organisations work more closely together, communities benefit. Shared spaces allow charities to collaborate more effectively, unlock new funding opportunities and ultimately increase the impact they can have both locally and nationally.”

Sandy Bear says the move represents a positive and sustainable step forward, ensuring the charity remains accessible, resilient and focused on its mission that no child, wherever they live in Wales, should grieve alone.

By AlSmith Author

frontline bereavement services.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Lee Barnett, Chief Executive of Sandy Bear (Photo: Supplied)

New project launched to preserve Pembrokeshire’s hidden place names

a nEW project has been launched to uncover and protect historic place names across the Pembrokeshire Coast national Park — from forgotten fields to little-known lanes — before they disappear from living memory.

The initiative, led by the Pembrokeshire Coast national Park authority in partnership with the Royal Commission on the ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales (RCaHMW), will gather local knowledge from communities throughout the Park and record it in the national list of Historic Place names for Wales.

A series of community workshops will take place during 2026, giving residents the opportunity to share names passed down through generations, including those linked to fields, footpaths, buildings and local landmarks.

All information collected will be compiled by Dr James JanuaryMcCann, Place Names Officer at the RCAHMW, and formally recorded to help safeguard this cultural heritage for future generations.

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Pembrokeshire’s landscape reflects a rich linguistic history shaped by Welsh, English, Nordic and Flemish influences. Organisers say capturing this knowledge now is vital, not only to preserve local identity but also to support landowners, communities and the National Park Authority in future land management and heritage projects.

Tomos Jones, Community Archaeologist at the Park Authority, said: “This is a fantastic project that empowers local communities to come forward with their place names knowledge. The information can then better inform our understanding of the National Park area and help us

develop relevant projects.”

Dr James January-McCann added: “Given Pembrokeshire’s rich linguistic history, this is a brilliant opportunity to discover how strong those influences remain today, and to deepen people’s knowledge of their heritage.”

With the National Eisteddfod taking place in Pembrokeshire this year, the project will also use the festival as a platform to reach a wider audience, including a dedicated talk supported by the Eisteddfod team.

Six community workshops are currently scheduled for 2026, with the ambition to expand the programme in future years.

The first workshop will take place at St Davids City Hall on Wednesday (Feb 18), with members of the public invited to drop in at any time between 10:00am and 4:00pm to share information or speak with the project team. Further sessions will be promoted locally and through social media.

Tenby golf captain raises more than £8,000 for hospice charity

TEnby gOlF Club has announced that £8,360.68 has been raised for the Paul Sartori Foundation after a year of fundraising led by club captain Heather Morgan.

Heather’s captaincy was particularly notable as she is only the second female captain in the club’s history since it was founded in 1888. Her choice of charity was inspired by personal experience, following the care and support provided to her mother by the hospice-at-home charity.

Her mother, who lived to the age of 97, was able to remain at home during her final days thanks to the support of Paul Sartori’s clinical team.

Heather said she could not have managed without the compassion and professionalism of the staff, who supported both her mother and the wider family during a difficult time. She therefore chose the charity not only to raise funds, but also to increase awareness of the services available to families across Pembrokeshire.

The fundraising year included a packed programme of well-supported events, including a charity golf day, Captain’s Day, and a popular night golf

competition. Members and guests also supported quiz nights with themed food, a special performance by Tenby Male Voice Choir, as well as Easter

and Christmas raffles.

Joanne Lutwyche, Events and Fundraising Officer for the Paul Sartori Foundation, said: “Becoming a charity of the year is a great privilege for us, and we always aim to support our community fundraisers as much as possible during the time we are chosen.

“Our fundraising and events team have been astonished by the generosity of the golfers throughout the year. We have been invited to support events at Tenby Golf Club, and they have been great fun to be part of.”

The charity has thanked Heather Morgan, Tenby Golf Club, and everyone who contributed to the fundraising efforts, saying the money will help provide hospice-at-home care for people living with life-limiting illness across Pembrokeshire.

The funds raised will enable more families to receive care and comfort in their own homes at the most difficult times.

Children living with parental addiction need more support, says NSPCC

CHildREn and young people rely on the adults around them to grow up in a safe, stable and loving environment.

But what happens when a parent or carer’s dependency affects the care they are able to provide?

Last year, the NSPCC Helpline received more than 9,000 contacts from people worried about a parent or carer misusing alcohol or drugs — an average of 25 contacts every day between April 2024 and March 2025. Some callers reported hearing arguments and furniture being thrown. Others described seeing parents inebriated or unconscious, or children who appeared dirty, neglected or hungry.

Last week (Feb 8–14) marked Children of Alcoholics Week, organised by the National Association

for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa). The annual campaign aims to reassure children affected by a parent or carer’s substance use that help is available and that they do not need to suffer in silence.

The NSPCC once again supported the campaign. Alongside helpline contacts from concerned adults, Childline delivered more than 300 counselling sessions last year to children worried about a parent’s substance use.

One 15-year-old girl told counsellors: “I am struggling at home with my mum’s addiction. I hate it when she doesn’t take care of her health, so we end up arguing almost

every day because it’s then up to me to take care of my two younger brothers.

“I feel I don’t have time for anything, and I’ve been sleeping very poorly. I am so glad Childline is here to listen to my problems. My mum used to care, but she’s changed. I just need to know how to cope with so many responsibilities.”

Another young person said: “My mum used to drink every day as far back as I can remember. Her drinking meant that I had to be the mum to my siblings and I didn’t really have a life. I was responsible for making sure my siblings all got fed, were dressed and bathed and in school. I cooked and cleaned around the house too.

“I didn’t feel like I was a child — I felt like I was growing up too quickly. I didn’t speak to anyone about what

was going on at home because I didn’t realise it was wrong. That was just my life, and I thought it was normal.”

Most parents and carers who drink alcohol do so in moderation, without increasing the risk of harm to their children. However, when alcohol is consumed in large quantities over a prolonged period, it can lead to abuse and neglect with serious consequences for a child’s future.

Parental substance misuse can affect children at every stage of development. During pregnancy, alcohol exposure can increase the risk of birth defects, premature birth, low birth weight and withdrawal symptoms.

As children grow older, they may face behavioural or emotional difficulties, poor school attendance or attainment, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or exposure to criminal activity.

Parents and carers who regularly misuse alcohol may struggle to recognise or respond to their children’s needs, increasing the risk of harm. While this does not necessarily mean a child will experience abuse or neglect, it can have a significant impact on their emotional wellbeing.

The NSPCC wants children to know they are not alone and that support is available. Childline is there to listen to any child, while the NSPCC Helpline provides advice and support for adults who are concerned about a child’s welfare.

Nacoa UK’s helpline is also available for children, adults and professionals concerned about a parent’s drinking on 0800 358 3456 or via helpline@nacoa.org.uk

Tenby Market Hall consultation event to shape future plans

TEnby residents are being invited to help shape the future of one of the town’s most historic and well-loved buildings.

Pembrokeshire County Council is holding a public drop-in consultation event on Wednesday (Feb 18) to gather views on the future of Tenby Market Hall.The event will take place at The De Valence between 4:00pm and 7:00pm.

Tenby Market Hall has been at the heart of the town for generations, supporting local traders and acting as a focal point for the community. The council says it is committed to retaining the character and role of the market while exploring how the building can be updated and improved for the future.

Residents, traders and visitors are being encouraged to attend and share their views on what should remain, what could be refreshed, and how the Market Hall can continue to thrive as both a

trading hub and community space.

Deputy Leader Cllr Paul Miller said the consultation marks the beginning of wider public engagement.

“After our initial conversations with traders, this event marks the first step in our public engagement for the future of Tenby Market Hall, a key historic asset in our town centre that supports local traders and contributes so much to the life of Tenby,” he said.

“I’d encourage everyone to come along, take part, and share their views on how we can create a thriving market that is fit for the future. There will be a range of stations on the day to help gather ideas and feedback, and all are very welcome.”

Those unable to attend can submit feedback by emailing propertyhelpdesk@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk.

The council has indicated that further opportunities for engagement will follow as plans develop.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

The alternative view By Mike Dello

in yet another costly and highly embarrassing u -turn this Monty Python-like socalled government has performed what i believe is number sixteen. i t has now been forced to concede that the undemocratic decision to deny 4.6 million voters their right to take part in the May council elections could not stand.

The excuse originally offered was “restructuring”, but Nigel Farage and his Reform Party had already scheduled a High Court hearing for Thursday in a bid to fight what they described as an appalling move by a lameduck government. Labour’s actions have reportedly cost

genuine insight into the mood of the country without the fantasy and fun of opinion polls.

Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe incurred the wrath of the left-wing media after giving his opinion on the migrant crisis. He used the word “colonise” and quoted some questionable figures, which gave fuel to his critics, not helped by his status as a Monaco-based tax exile. Looking at social media, many people appear to support his views, but he probably wishes now he had said nothing. The BBC proudly announced that fans outside Old Trafford had condemned his comments, with a reporter finding two critics. One contributor said Ratcliffe was not qualified to give an opinion, which raises the question of whether people are only allowed to speak if they hold approved views.

Meanwhile in Italy, its leader Giorgia Meloni, who supporters say puts the safety of her people first, is reportedly considering deploying the Italian navy in a bid to stop migrant boats. Back in the UK, reports have emerged of a 12-year-old girl becoming the latest victim of sexual violence, which some commentators blame on immigration policy and the interpretation of ECHR Article 8, a framework successive governments have followed.

racial equality he twice sought the Democratic nomination for president, unsuccessfully, but helped pave the way for Barack Obama to become the first Black president. He will be fondly remembered.

I have formed a somewhat begrudging admiration for the wonders of artificial intelligence, but it clearly comes at a frightening cost to jobs and perhaps to the hopes of humanity itself. I watched a young woman this week describe her struggles, including hard work and financial hardship at university to qualify as a graphic designer, only to find her talents now surplus to requirements thanks to AI tools that can be accessed with a few clicks. As this situation accelerates across many industries, one has to ask what use humanity will have if technology replaces so many roles.

It is clear that handson trades, largely neglected during the years of Tony Blair’s governments, must be reignited at pace before AI disrupts entire sectors of employment.

the taxpayer around £100,000 in Reform’s legal bills so far.

Opposition parties have called for Local Government Secretary Steve Reed to resign. A triumphant Farage said: “We took this Labour government to court and won.” Tory leader Kemi Badenoch accused Labour of chaos, claiming it could not make basic decisions, while Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said his party had fought “tooth and nail” to stop Labour on the issue.

This latest reversal, which affects 30 English county council areas, will be the government’s first real electoral test under Keir Starmer. It will also be a test for Reform and may give a

Labour veteran Yvette Cooper has failed in a bid to make the group Palestine Action illegal after three senior judges blocked the attempt. She says she will appeal, but critics argue the decision highlights the difficulty governments face when trying to outlaw protest organisations.

A sad death this week in America was that of iconic civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, aged 84. He marched with Martin Luther King Jr in the 1960s and was alongside him when King was assassinated in 1968. Jackson recalled that as a child he had to sit at the back of buses due to segregation. In his long fight for

I usually end with something light-hearted, but this week I have chosen something both ridiculous and disturbing. It began with Green councillor Anne Cross in Crowborough, who came up with the idea of delivering 600 Valentine’s cards to asylum seekers housed in a local facility with the help of her grandchildren, presumably in the spirit of integration. These included small gifts.

Local Conservative MP Nus Ghani expressed outrage, pointing out what many see as the obvious safeguarding concern. She said: “There is widespread concern locally that getting children to make Valentine’s cards for single adult male strangers is disturbing and highly irresponsible, with no regard for safeguarding.”

No, I didn’t make that up. It may also be a glimpse of what some fear could come with the Greens. Cabbages spring to mind.

Community pool launches funding appeal to secure future

a COMMuniTy-Run swimming pool in narberth is appealing for public and business support as it works to safeguard the future of one of Pembrokeshire’s most valued local facilities.

Narberth Swimming Pool, operated by charity Swim Narberth CIO, has unveiled plans for a £338,000 sustainability and improvement project aimed at protecting the building, cutting energy costs and ensuring the pool can continue serving the community for decades.

The facility was saved from closure in 2014 following a major community-led fundraising campaign and has since become a vital local asset. It now supports more than 500 children and 1,000 adults every week through swimming lessons, school sessions, inclusive and disabilityfriendly programmes, and health and wellbeing activities for people of all ages.

Chair of Trustees Chris Walters said the next phase is about protecting what the community worked so hard to preserve.

“This project isn’t about expansion or luxury upgrades,” he said. “It’s about keeping the doors open, the water warm and the building safe.”

A key element of the project is the replacement of the pool’s roof, which was never fully completed when the charity took over more than a decade ago. The structure has deteriorated over time, leading to persistent leaks and ongoing maintenance problems.

“The roof is a real concern for us,” Chris explained. “If we don’t address it now, the problems will only get worse and more expensive to fix.”

Alongside the roof works, the project will include installation of a modern high-efficiency air-handling system and upgrades to the existing solar photovoltaic panels. Together, the improvements are expected to reduce energy use by more than 30%, cut carbon emissions and significantly lower long-term running costs.

Swim Narberth CIO has applied to the Welsh Government Community Facilities Programme for £300,000 towards the scheme and must raise approximately £40,000 in match funding to unlock the grant.

Chris said the opportunity follows more than five years of waiting for a funding programme of this scale, with earlier plans delayed by the Covid pandemic.

“During that time, we’ve focused on stabilising the pool, growing participation and improving quality,”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

he said. “Winning a recent Swim Wales Award, and being the only swimming pool in Pembrokeshire to hold the Swim Wales Learn to Swim accreditation, has cemented Narberth’s position as a key community facility. But awards don’t repair roofs — investment does.”

Fundraising efforts are now being coordinated by Pool Manager Alice, with events and initiatives planned in the coming weeks. The charity is also approaching local businesses and national organisations to help secure the required match funding within a limited timeframe.

“We’re asking businesses to consider sponsoring the pool in some way,” Chris said. “In return, we’re committed to giving something back, whether that’s recognition, promotion or community engagement.”

As part of the appeal, larger donors are being offered a practical incentive.

“For anyone with slightly deeper pockets,” he added, “we’re offering a free company swim session for around 25 employees in return for a minimum donation of about £1,000. It’s a great team-building activity and supports a really good cause.”

Chris said trustees hope the same community spirit that saved the pool in 2014 will once again come to the fore.

“We’re asking the community to rally around the pool once more,” he said. “Without this investment, there’s

a real risk that the pool becomes increasingly difficult to sustain in the future.”

Swim Narberth CIO will share updates on fundraising progress in

the coming weeks. Anyone wishing to support the appeal can follow the charity on Facebook at facebook. com/swimnarberth or donate via gofund.me/447a446d7

Anyone can administer EpiPens in emergencies, councillor clarifies

a COunCillOR has clarified that anyone is legally permitted to administer an adrenaline autoinjector (aai), commonly known as an EpiPen, in a medical emergency, following confusion during a recent debate at Pembrokeshire County Council.

Councillor Huw Murphy circulated guidance to colleagues after presenting a Notice of Motion calling for arrangements to be made with Hywel Dda University Health Board

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so that every school in Pembrokeshire can hold the potentially life-saving devices.

He pointed to changes made to medicines legislation in 2012, which broadened the law to allow any member of the public to administer adrenaline for the purpose of saving a life. Previously, the law required the person giving the injection to have received appropriate training.

Cllr Murphy said he had been aware of the legal position during the debate but was unable to reference the specific regulations at the time due to technical difficulties.

He thanked fellow councillors for supporting the motion in principle and said the estimated cost of around £14,000 to equip schools across the county would represent good value given the potential to prevent fatalities in emergency situations.

The councillor also suggested the Welsh Government may need to review its national policy on the storage and use of AAIs in local authority schools as awareness grows and demand increases.

If approved, the proposal would see discussions take place with health partners to develop a practical framework allowing schools to hold and use the devices safely.

Government refusal to compensate 1950s-born women sparks legal row

WOMEn born in the 1950s across Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire are threatening legal action after the uK government refused to pay compensation despite accepting maladministration in pension age communications.

The controversy follows a decision by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden MP, to reject recommendations from the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), which had investigated delays in notifying women about increases to the State Pension age.

In a letter sent to all MPs on January 29, the Secretary of State accepted that government failings caused a 28-month delay in sending letters to affected women but concluded that compensation would not be appropriate. He argued that most women were already aware that the State Pension age was rising and that there was no direct financial loss caused by the delay.

The Government also cited the projected cost of a compensation scheme — estimated at up to £10.3 billion — as part of its reasoning.

However, campaigners say the decision is unlawful and discriminatory.

Jackie Gilderdale, organiser for Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen West 1950s Women of Wales, has written to local MP Henry Tufnell calling for the decision to be suspended and for independent mediation between ministers and campaign groups.

She said the Government had accepted wrongdoing but refused to remedy the consequences.

Campaigners argue that many women lost opportunities to plan financially for retirement due to the communication failures, particularly those with lower incomes, caring responsibilities or interrupted employment histories.

The letter claims the decision breaches equality law and administrative justice principles, and could be challenged through judicial review or other legal action.

It also raises concerns about consultation, alleging ministers relied on engagement with a single organisation representing only a small proportion of affected women rather than recognised campaign groups.

The dispute forms part of a longrunning national controversy over pension age changes affecting women born in the 1950s, often associated with the WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) movement.

The Ombudsman’s investigation, published in March 2024 after six years of work, found maladministration in the Department for Work and Pensions’ communication strategy and recommended a compensation framework.

While accepting fault, the Government maintains that the injustice threshold for compensation was not met.

Campaigners disagree, arguing that loss of opportunity — such as the chance to remain in work or adjust savings — constitutes a real and compensable harm.

A parliamentary petition calling for mediation between ministers and affected women has already attracted more than 60,000 signatures.

Concert at St Davids Cathedral to support hospice care in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire, will take place on Saturday (Feb 21) at 1:00pm and will bring together local singing groups in the cathedral’s historic setting. The concert will also feature internationally renowned a cappella leader Deke Sharon.

Sharon, often described as the “godfather” of contemporary a cappella, is best known for his work on the hit Pitch Perfect films. His return to Pembrokeshire follows a successful workshop visit in late 2025 at the invitation of Pembrokeshire Pop Voices.

The local choir has chosen the Paul Sartori Foundation as one of its charities of the year and has been raising funds through a range of musical initiatives. Before Christmas, the group released a charity single titled Love the Bones of You, with proceeds helping to support hospice care across the county.

on Saturday (Mar 28) at 7:30pm at The Regency Hall in Saundersfoot. Pembrokeshire Pop Voices will be joined by Paul Sartori supporters The Slipway Ukes and local band Footbridge for a night of music, food and fundraising.

A spokesperson for the Paul Sartori Foundation said the events highlight the power of music to bring communities together while supporting vital care services.

“These events are wonderful experiences for audiences and they also raise essential funds for our hospice-at-home services,” she said.

“We are incredibly grateful to groups such as Pembrokeshire Pop Voices, Totally Vocal Pembrokeshire and The Slipway Ukes for supporting care in our community.”

Anyone interested in organising a musical fundraiser or choosing the charity as their Charity of the Year can contact community fundraiser RosieFaye at rosie-faye@paulsartori.org.

Sinclair editor@herald.email

MuSiC lovers in Pembrokeshire are being invited to enjoy a special lunchtime concert at St davids Cathedral later this month, with proceeds supporting the Paul Sartori Foundation’s hospice-athome services.

The event, hosted by Totally Vocal

Supporters can contribute by streaming or downloading the song, or simply asking a smart speaker to play it — a small action organisers say can make a meaningful difference.

Further fundraising events are planned for the spring, including an evening of music and entertainment

Tickets for the St Davids Cathedral concert are available online via TicketSource, while tickets for the Saundersfoot event can be purchased through The Slipway Ukes or via the Paul Sartori Foundation website.

Tom

Long service awards for Tenby surf lifesavers

THREE long-serving members of Tenby Surf life Saving Club have been recognised for their commitment and dedication, receiving long Service awards at the charity’s recent presentation evening.

Jules Rilston, Angelo Fecci and Ian Badham were each honoured for their sustained contributions to surf lifesaving in Tenby over many years of voluntary service.

Club chairman Tai Jackson thanked the trio for their commitment to the club and the wider lifesaving movement on behalf of the committee and members.

Tenby Surf Life Saving Club is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit registered charity and one of 31 volunteer lifeguard clubs across Wales. During 2025, its lifesavers delivered 188 hours of volunteer patrols and assisted 113 people along the coastline.

The club also runs a youth education programme, known as Nippers and Junior Lifesaving, which provided more than 104 hours of training to 60 local children last year. Young participants are taught vital water safety skills, first aid knowledge

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and how to enjoy water sports safely and sustainably.

The club is currently recruiting new volunteers to support both frontline

lifesaving activities and essential behind-the-scenes roles, including committee positions and fundraising support.

Smiles all round for Pancake Day celebrations in Tenby

TENBY was filled with laughter, cheers and the smell of freshly cooked pancakes on Tuesday (Feb 17) as the town’s annual pancake races brought residents and visitors together for a day of family-friendly fun.

The much-loved tradition, held to mark Shrove Tuesday, saw competitors of all ages take to the streets armed with frying pans, attempting to race while flipping pancakes without dropping them. Spectators lined the route in good spirits, many wrapped up against the chilly weather, as children, families and local groups took part.

Among the highlights were enthusiastic young racers proudly showing off their pancake-flipping skills, with some managing impressive mid-air flips while others focused on simply reaching the finish line with their pancake still intact. The event created plenty of memorable moments for families watching and taking part.

RNLI volunteers also joined the celebrations, bringing colour and community spirit to the occasion in their distinctive yellow gear, alongside a mascot character who proved popular with children.

The races form part of Tenby’s traditional Shrove Tuesday celebrations, which continue to be an important date in the town’s community calendar. Organisers said the event is designed to bring people together, celebrate local traditions and create a fun experience for families during the school half-term period.

Younger participants also took to the course in dedicated children’s races, many concentrating hard as they carefully balanced their pancakes while moving along the route under the watchful eyes of parents and marshals.

With smiles all round and plenty of successful pancake flips, the event once again proved why Tenby’s pancake races remain a cherished annual tradition for the community.

Bosherston bistro alcohol license antisocial behaviour fears

a Call to allow the selling of alcohol as late as 10pm at a rural beauty spot former village tearoom will “create an absolute nightmare” exacerbating an already growing issue with antisocial behaviour, objectors have said.

At Pembrokeshire County Council’s licensing sub-committee meeting of February 19 members will consider an application by Sarah Jane Partridge and Robert John Secrett for a new premises licence at Bosherton Bistro, Old World Cottage, Bosherton.

A report for members says it is proposed the premises, formerly a tearoom called ‘Ye Olde Worlde Café’ would open 8am-10pm, selling alcohol from 9am on and off site, seven days

a week in the village near the famed lily ponds.

Since the proposal for the site, close to the village pub The St Govan’s Inn was publicised, 13 objections were received, including Stackpole and Castlemartin Community Council.

In its submissions, the community council said it “will cause a significant public nuisance in the residential area”.

“Bosherston village is a remote village and currently has four wellestablished camp sites which already frequently cause late night disruption, littering and anti-social behaviour

caused predominantly by intoxicated individuals.

“Residing next to the Stackpole Estate, an area of outstanding natural beauty (many areas covered by SSSI), noise generated by outdoor activities, such as the consumption of alcoholic beverages and indoor music and dancing, will generate unacceptable noise levels for residents and have an impact on local wildlife.”

It went on to say: “The provision of alcohol for such extended hours increases the risk likelihood of individuals engaging in criminal activities. Late-night alcohol sales are often associated with increased incidents of drunkenness, vandalism, and other public disorder offences.

Instances of aggressive behaviour and trespass are already prevalent within the village by visitors under the influence of alcohol.

“The selling of alcoholic off-sales from such extended hours will likely pose an increased risk to public safety, exasperated by the influx of people late at night leading to confrontations, accidents, and a likely strain on local emergency services.”

Concerns raised by members of the public included “the application as currently written allows for a pub-style operation with morning drinking, off-sales, and dancing,” and “greater access to alcohol for unlimited campers cannot possibly result in anything but an increased problem with drunkenness, drink driving and antisocial behaviour,” and a call imploring “no to a licence, under any circumstances” says the alcohol licence “will not only make life for the residents in the immediate area an absolute nightmare, it will also have a hugely detrimental effect on the village as a whole and could threaten the peace and beauty of the surrounding ponds, beach and coastline.”

Another said: “One unintended consequence of this application has been increased discussions among neighbours regarding the prevalence of antisocial behaviour in the area. There is genuine concern that increased availability of alcohol may contribute to a rise in such behaviour, potentially placing significant strain on the already stretched emergency services.”

The application will be considered at the licensing committee.

Free children’s workshops to bring fantasy sea creatures to life in Milford Haven

CHildREn will have the chance to create their own magical sea creatures next month as part of Milford Waterfront’s popular Festival of the Sea celebrations.

The Waterfront Gallery, based in the Old Sail Loft on Discovery Quay, Milford Haven, will host free Fantasy Sea Creatures workshops on Sunday (Mar 1).

The sessions will run from 10:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 3:30pm, with two activities taking place at the same time, led by resident artists Lesley Dearn and Gina Hughes.

Designed as drop-in sessions suitable for children aged four and over, each 30-minute workshop will accommodate up to six children at a time. All materials and tools will be

provided, although children must be accompanied by an adult.

Gina Hughes will lead a clay modelling activity where participants can explore textures while creating fish and small sea creatures inspired by those found along the Pembrokeshire coastline. Children will be able to take their creations home after the session. Meanwhile, Lesley Dearn’s workshop will introduce simple watercolour printing, blotting and stencilling techniques to help children design magical fantasy sea creatures. Participants will then bring their designs to life using drawing, painting and collage, producing artwork to keep.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

County show welcomes 1,200 pupils for ‘food story’ event

MORE than 1,200 schoolchildren from across Pembrokeshire took part in a two-day “Food Story” event in Haverfordwest this week, celebrating the journey of food from field to fork.

Organised by Pembrokeshire

County Show, the event highlighted the theme “let’s Celebrate”, shining a spotlight on the nutritious food produced locally and the farmers and producers behind it.

Pupils were given the opportunity to learn about agriculture, food

production and the importance of supporting local businesses — with organisers describing the event as two “fantastic days of learning, discovery and celebration.”

A spokesperson thanked the volunteers, businesses and supporters who helped make the event possible, adding that a full blog recognising contributors will be published soon. The initiative aims to inspire the next generation to value farming and understand where their food comes from.

By AlSmith

gaming

Mario Tennis Fever delivers a lively and entertaining sports experience that captures the fun and competitive spirit fans expect from a Mario-themed game. From the first match, the controls feel smooth and responsive, making it easy for new players to pick up while still offering enough depth to reward practice and skill. Each character brings a distinct personality and play style to the court, encouraging players to experiment and find favorites that suit their approach. The inclusion of powerful special shots and dramatic animations adds excitement to every rally, turning ordinary points into thrilling moments that can quickly change the flow of a match. Visually, the game stands out with its colorful courts, expressive character designs, and energetic effects that keep every match feeling fresh and dynamic. The soundtrack and sound effects further enhance the atmosphere, reinforcing the sense of playful competition that runs through the entire experience. With a range of modes, including tournaments, multiplayer options, and extra challenges, Mario Tennis Fever offers strong replay value and plenty of reasons to return for more matches. While its arcade-style focus may not appeal to players seeking realistic tennis simulation, it succeeds in delivering fast-paced, accessible, and consistently fun gameplay. Overall, Mario Tennis Fever is a vibrant and engaging title that blends simple mechanics, creative flair, and multiplayer excitement into a highly enjoyable sports experience.

wiTh eddie The game guru

Scream 7 arrives with the heavy burden of legacy on its shoulders, and yet it manages to feel both reverent and refreshingly alive, walking a careful line between nostalgia and reinvention. From its opening moments, the film makes it clear that it understands what has always made the franchise endure: a sharp awareness of horror conventions, an affection for its characters, and a willingness to surprise its audience when they think they know what is coming. The familiar Ghostface presence is as chilling as ever, but this time the threat feels more personal, more psychologically intimate, as if the story is less concerned with sheer body count and more invested in the emotional scars left behind by years of violence and loss. The script leans heavily into themes of legacy, fandom, and the pressure of living up to past icons, using its self-aware humor not just for laughs but as

a way to comment on the state of modern horror and sequel culture.

What truly elevates the film, however, is its character work. The returning cast is given room to evolve rather than simply repeat old beats, and the newer faces are written with enough depth to make their fates genuinely matter.

Relationships feel lived-in, tensions are believable, and moments of quiet vulnerability are allowed to breathe between bursts of suspense. This emotional grounding makes the scares hit harder, because the audience is not just watching a puzzle unfold, but investing in people who feel real within the heightened reality of the story.

The direction balances sleek, modern visuals with subtle nods to the franchise’s roots, creating a tone that feels polished without losing its gritty edge.

In terms of suspense, the film excels at building dread through pacing rather than relying solely on shock. Several set pieces are crafted with remarkable patience, drawing out tension through sound design, framing, and clever misdirection. When the violence does erupt, it feels purposeful rather than gratuitous, reinforcing the stakes rather than distracting from them. The mystery at the heart of the narrative is layered and thoughtfully constructed, offering enough red herrings to keep viewers guessing without becoming convoluted. By the time the final act arrives, the revelations feel both surprising and inevitable, a sign of careful storytelling rather than cheap twists.

Ultimately, Scream 7 stands as a confident continuation of a storied franchise, proving that there is still creative life left in its familiar mask. It honors what longtime fans love while daring to push the series into more emotionally resonant territory, resulting in a film that is thrilling, funny, and unexpectedly heartfelt. Rather than feeling like another obligatory sequel, it plays like a thoughtful conversation with its own history, reminding audiences why this saga has remained culturally relevant for decades. It is a rare example of a late-entry installment that not only justifies its existence but enriches the legacy it inherits.

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Forty-eight hours to regain your dignity online

RigHT then. let’s talk about something serious for a minute.

If someone shares an intimate image of you online without your consent, that is not banter, gossip or internet drama. It is abuse. Plain and simple.

The UK Government is bringing in new rules that will require tech companies to remove those images within forty-eight hours of them being reported. If they fail, they could face fines of up to ten percent of their global revenue, or even being blocked in the UK completely.

Now, for companies worth billions, that sort of penalty gets attention very quickly. You do not ignore numbers like that, even in Silicon Valley.

But the real importance of this law is not the punishment. It is the shift in responsibility.

Victims should only have to report an image once. After that, the technology should make sure it disappears everywhere and cannot simply pop back up again five minutes later on another platform.

From a technical perspective, this is entirely achievable. Systems already exist that create a digital fingerprint of an image so it can be recognised instantly across the internet. We use this approach to stop the spread of child abuse material. Applying the same seriousness to image-based abuse affecting adults is long overdue.

Here in Wales, the impact can feel even more personal. In a big city you might be one face in a crowd. In a smaller town you are someone’s neighbour, someone’s cousin, someone who went to school with half the people in Tesco on a Saturday morning. When humiliation spreads online

in that environment, the emotional damage can be enormous.

Technology does not create cruelty. It just gives it a louder microphone.

Artificial intelligence is another reason this law is arriving now. So-called nudification apps and deepfake tools mean people can generate fake explicit images of someone in minutes using nothing more than a phone. The barrier to causing harm has dropped frighteningly low.

Some critics worry about free speech. Personally, I think consent is the dividing line. Freedom of expression does not include the freedom to exploit someone else.

For years, tech companies claimed they were neutral platforms. That argument becomes harder to defend when algorithms decide what is promoted, shared and profitable. With power comes responsibility. That is not antitechnology. It is simply common sense.

Will this solve everything? No. Human behaviour does not change overnight.

But it does move things in the right direction. It tells victims that society is starting to take their experience seriously. And it reminds technology companies that innovation does not place them above the rules the rest of us live by.

As a Welshman who has spent a lifetime watching technology race ahead of regulation, I would put it this way. Progress is not just about what we invent. It is about how we protect people when those inventions are misused.

Until next week, The Professor

Blodwen Rocks the Boat sets sail for Torch Theatre

FOllOWing a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe, newport performer Emily davis is setting sail on a uK tour with her uplifting onewoman musical comedy, blodwen Rocks the boat.

Blending sharp satire, original songs and heartfelt storytelling, the show takes an affectionate look at modern ideas of work, ambition and success — and what happens when we dare to question the path we’re on.

Blodwen believes she’s finally got it all figured out. The job, the city lifestyle, the reassuring sense that she’s “made it.” But when a corporate away day takes her unexpectedly out to sea, something begins to shift. As the tide turns, so too does Blodwen’s understanding of what success really means.

Directed by Paulus the Cabaret Geek and accompanied by musician and composer Andy Campbell Smith, Blodwen Rocks the Boat is a witty and life-affirming reminder that success isn’t always about climbing higher — sometimes it’s about choosing your own direction.

Emily Davis is a Welsh cabaret performer, singer and writer who has built a loyal following for her characterled solo shows. Previous Blodwen productions have enjoyed acclaimed

runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and venues including the Wales Millennium Centre. This latest show marks her most ambitious project yet — a fully original musical developed through Fringe performances, previews and professional collaboration.

Emily said: “My Blodwen has blossomed! This is my biggest show yet and I can’t wait to see how audiences respond. I invite you to spend an evening with me — a Welsh woman who can sing and doesn’t mind making a fool of herself on stage! I promise you’ll also leave feeling very excited about stationery!”

The London Theatre Review described the show as “stunning”, adding: “Emily’s striking and powerful singing contrasts beautifully with the Welsh-accented simplicity of Blodwen’s stories. What an engaging performer.” Cabaret Scenes praised her vocal talent, calling it “her secret weapon.”

Blodwen Rocks the Boat tours the UK this spring and comes to the Torch Theatre on Tuesday, March 17 at 7:30pm.

Tickets are £15 and the show is suitable for ages twelve and over.

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

HOROSCOPES

Season three of The Night Agent on Netflix represents a noticeable step forward for the series, refining its identity as a political thriller while embracing deeper emotional and psychological complexity. From the opening episode, the season establishes a more mature and confident tone, trusting its audience to follow intricate plotlines and layered character motivations without relying too heavily on exposition. The storytelling feels more deliberate and controlled, with each episode carefully structured to build tension while allowing quieter moments of reflection to resonate. Rather than simply escalating the scale of danger, the season focuses on the personal cost of living in a world defined by secrecy, betrayal, and constant surveillance, giving the narrative a stronger emotional core. The central character continues to evolve in compelling ways,

wrestling with doubt, responsibility, and the long-term consequences of past decisions, which adds a sense of realism to the otherwise high-concept premise. Supporting characters are no longer just functional pieces in the plot but are given meaningful arcs that explore loyalty, ambition, and moral compromise, making their choices feel impactful and often unpredictable. The writing demonstrates greater confidence in exploring moral gray areas, refusing to present easy heroes or villains and instead highlighting how power and fear can distort even well-intentioned people.

Visually, the season remains sleek and atmospheric, using shadowy interiors, tense chase sequences, and carefully composed action scenes to sustain a feeling of constant unease, while the direction ensures that spectacle never overwhelms storytelling. The action itself feels more purposeful than in previous

seasons, serving character and theme rather than existing purely for excitement. Although the narrative occasionally flirts with familiar genre tropes, it consistently finds ways to subvert expectations through characterdriven twists and emotionally grounded revelations. The dialogue is sharper and more restrained, allowing subtext and performance to carry much of the dramatic weight. As the season progresses, the stakes grow not just in terms of national security but in the preservation of trust, identity, and personal integrity, making the conflicts feel increasingly intimate. The final stretch of episodes is particularly effective, weaving together longrunning threads into a conclusion that is both tense and reflective, offering resolution without sacrificing the complexity the season has worked to establish. By the end, viewers are left with a strong sense of closure paired with lingering questions about what comes next, reinforcing the show’s long-term narrative ambition. Overall, season three stands as the most polished and emotionally resonant chapter of the series so far, delivering gripping suspense, thoughtful character development, and a heightened sense of thematic purpose that elevates it beyond standard thriller fare and solidifies its place as one of the more engaging entries in contemporary streaming drama.

a logical order. Until you know exactly what you want to do, stick to your usual routine and pretend that nothing out of the ordinary is going on. After all, nothing is going to change unless you make it change. You’re still the one in charge, you know!

CANCER

When you need a break, you really need a break. So listen to your body and emotions as this day progresses. If you start to approach your breaking point, you’ll notice some clear signals, and when you do, you hereby have official permission to coast and relax for a while. All the activity that’s been going on lately in your life may be too much. It’s time to shift gears, slow down, and concentrate on a developing issue with a friend or family member.

LEO A lot of possibilities could be dangled in front of you today, mostly in the social realm. Everyone from shopkeepers to waitresses has a warm smile for you, so show your best smile right back. Extend extra kindness to everyone you meet and some tentative connections could start to develop strong foundations. It’s not like you need any more friends right now, but there’s nothing saying you wouldn’t get a very big kick out of it.

VIRGO

You have way more power in tense situations than you think you do, so use it! There’s no good reason for you to be doubting your potency now, so why are you? If you need to be reminded of how important you are, get with your friends or family members and just hang out, just be you. You don’t have to ask them for an ego boost (and you definitely shouldn’t hint around for it). Just be genuine and relaxed and you’ll start to feel better about yourself before you know it.

LIBRA

You may feel some conflicting emotions about your group of people. Some of these folks are taking on annoying habits or getting involved with annoying people. Now it might be wise to give them some space to go off in their own directions and then come right back when they realize you might not necessarily follow them down their new path. Stay who you are, but get ready for other people to change. Your role in this community may be transformed.

SCORPIO

The freshest ideas offer the greatest illumination for your life, so seek out innovation wherever and whenever you can today. If you put yourself in situations that are new, you might feel the slightest bit uncomfortable, but you will definitely learn a thing or two. Today is all about pushing past your comfort zone and opening your eyes to how other people live. Visit another country or explore another culture through its cuisine at home.

SAGITTARIUS

It’s important to keep your mind and body limber today, because something cool might arrive on the scene, and you’ll want to be able to jump right on that bandwagon! Try to get some exercise early in the morning, even if that just means taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Getting your blood pumping early on will give you the energy you need to follow whatever whims you have. You might just discover a whole new passion.

CAPRICORN

You’ve done a lot in your life that you deserve to be proud of, and learned some valuable lessons. But today you encounter someone or something unusual that puts you in a situation you’ve never experienced before. Nothing you’ve been through has prepared you for this, but you have a ton of fun working your way through it. This is a whole new ballgame, one that stimulates and inspires you. You get a taste of where your future could take you.

AQUARIUS The truth is there are always obstacles of some shape or size in your way. You just can’t always see them. For a while now, there have been some things slowing down your progress, and you’ve been

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BADGER has decided to be positive this week.

despite the Welsh team shipping another pounding against les bleus last weekend, and despite labour governments at either end of the M4 doing their best to do their worst for Wales, and despite the constant drumming of raindrops keeping him awake at night, and even despite the increasing price of ginger nut biscuits, badger will be positive.

Can’t say fairer than that.

You may be puzzled, readers, about the source of Badger’s positivity. Wonder no longer.

It’s February half-term.

That means, being a Badger of a certain age, no sproglings are hanging around the sett, and his journey into work is blissfully free of yummy mummys driving fourby-fours to schools and colleges. It means that teachers and council workers are at home instead of clogging up the streets around schools and off-licences. As it’s February, and as the recordbreaking monsoon season is continuing, there are not many visitors around.

True, Badger is beginning to wonder whether the concrete and tarmac making up the county’s roads are so sodden that they would take a long stud from Badger’s old Patricks. However, on balance, with the roads relatively quiet, this foraging mustelid is as happy as a pig in what pigs do.

Of course, it cannot last. While it does, Badger relishes the relative absence of humans from wood, field, and footpath. You get the odd nutter out and about, wearing a kagoule, lugging a rucksack, and carrying a mobile phone wrapped in a plastic bag, which is giving them directions to oblivion. The weather is such that even that dying breed is, well, dying out. Probably imminently, after being trapped in the endless rain. So soft is the ground and so hard the rain, that standing still runs the risk of being hammered into the mud like a tent peg.

As this is Pembrokeshire, there is no risk of an unwary traveller vanishing into the mire a la Hounds

of the Baskerville. Still, the chances of Doctor Foster-type incidents mean the coastal path is a favourite spot for Badger’s woodland friends to hang out and snigger at stuck travellers whose phones have led them to a boggy field of cattle. Let’s face it, readers, you must take your pleasures - however small - where you can find them.

Small pleasures, readers, they’re the thing.

When you think about it, small pleasures make the world go around. Take a nice mug of tea. If you’ve been out in the weather we’ve been having, once you get indoors, you need to warm up. A kettle, a tea bag, a mug made in China that claims to be from Blackpool, and a splash of milk do the trick every time. After you get over the initial shock of just how hot freshly-made tea is, you settle down, as Badger does, to muttered oohs and aahs as the tea does its work, warming up the cockles of your cockles.

The author Bill Bryson once observed that it never ceased to astound him how little it took to

make Britons happier. Badger agrees with him. There is too much focus given on telling people what they must do to be happier. The energy some people expend seeking happiness, let alone attaining it, is such that Badger can’t help wondering whether that game is worth the candle. People should settle for contentment, by which Badger means accepting the mundanity of life and enjoying the light seasonings of joy, like a hot beverage of your choice when you’re cold, when they come.

You don’t have to chase the chilli hit of excitement or pursue the spice of absolute bliss as ends in themselves. Badger’s a gradualist when it comes to such things. Build up the small pleasures as and when they come. Then, one day, you will pause for breath, consider your lot, and find that the accumulation of moments of joy has made you a happy person.

There are times when excitement and an excited response are appropriate. There are definitely occasions when ecstasy is justified.

For example, if a masked thug pulls out a double-barreled shotgun from under their raincoat and invites you to hand over your wallet, Badger understands there could be a brief moment where you might feel a thrill. In particular, if there is plenty of cover and you’re possessed of Linford Christie’s speed, you might consider the prospect of running away to add to the exhilaration of the situation. However, if neither of those factors applies, take a deep breath, settle your nerves and hand over the wallet. You don’t want people looking through two postcodes for bits of you. Anyway, a nice cup of tea will help calm you down afterwards.

Other occasions when feelings of excitement, even elation, are justified include winning big on the Lottery or Euromillions, or watching Wales go through an entire international match with 15 players on the field. Badger was going to type “watching Wales beat England at Twickenham”, readers, but let’s stay realistic with jackpot wins and no yellow cards.

There are other reasons to stay positive. There are three games to go in this year’s Six Nations. We can’t be god-awful in all of them. You might be sad when you consider that merely “dreadful” would be an improvement, but look on the bright side, readers, it’s only three more games and (theoretically) anything could happen. A meteorite might strike Dublin, and let’s not rule out the possibility of a small cometary impact wiping out the Italian’s tight five forwards (it’d take that, reader; trust Badger on that one).

And before Badger forgets, there’s another reason to be cheerful. The County Council’s Cabinet voted in favour of a relatively modest Council Tax rise next year. While that will mean fewer and worse services, look on the bright side. There’ll be fewer teachers and council workers on Pembrokeshire’s roads, making getting to work that little bit easier for the rest of us.

Every day will be like February half-term when it rains.

opinion: wales are rebuilding and rebuilds are painful

as the final whistle sounded on Wales’ heavy defeat to France at the Principality Stadium this afternoon, the scoreboard told only part of the story for rugby fans watching from pubs and living rooms across Wales.

There are defeats - and then there are reality checks.

This was the latter.

For more than a decade, Welsh supporters grew used to teams that could grind out results even on off days, built on a clear identity: physical, organised and relentless. That certainty has faded. What we are watching now is something very different - a side searching for cohesion, confidence and belief.

France exposed that brutally. They were quicker in thought, sharper in execution and ruthless when opportunities appeared. Every Welsh error felt costly because, against elite opposition, it is. That is the level Wales must climb back towards.

But perspective matters. Effort was not the issue. Commitment was not lacking. The players fought, the crowd largely stayed behind them, and there were encouraging signs - particularly after half-time - with increased intensity and moments of attacking ambition. Young players gained exposure to the pace and physicality of top-tier international rugby.

Those experiences matter more than the scoreline right now.

International rugby is unforgiving when combinations are new, confidence is fragile and systems are still bedding in. Young players will make mistakes. Defensive lines will break down. Decision-making

will falter under pressure. That is not failure - it is the price of transition.

Rebuilds are measured in seasons, not matches. Welsh rugby has reached one of those cyclical moments every nation eventually faces. Golden generations age. Structures creak. Results dip. Renewal follows - if the system is strong enough to support it.

That is the bigger question.

Here in Pembrokeshire, national struggles ripple locally. Our county has long contributed to the Welsh game through clubs such as Haverfordwest, Narberth, Tenby and Pembroke Dock, and through regional pathways. When the national side falters, confidence, participation and interest at grassroots level inevitably feel the impact. Supporters will accept losing if they believe progress is real and direction is clear. What they will not accept is drift - uncertainty over structures, funding disputes and short-term fixes that ignore long-term planning.

There were positives against France, even in defeat. A second-half response showed character. Individual performances offered building blocks. Young talent was tested at the highest level.

The danger now is impatience.

Welsh rugby has too often reacted with panic - coaching changes, selection swings, quick fixes. But there is no shortcut back to competing with teams like France, who demonstrate what sustained investment and stability produce.

A 77-year-old former Haverfordwest player summed it up with the clarity only lots of time on the pitch can bring. He said today: ‘The Welsh have control of the ball and they’re kicking it away

The stats back him: too many aimless kicks handed France easy counters, turning possession into points against us. In Pembrokeshire clubs, we’ve all seen it - when confidence dips, kicking becomes the default escape. Fixing it means rebuilding trust in our carrying, phases, and chase game, not just structures

Wales are rebuilding, and rebuilds are painful.

with no plan about how to retrieve it or keep it in possession. Then the other team gets it and scores.’

He asks the tough questions - is this fear? A loser’s strategy? Or a lack of belief that we can hold on and make ground?

The only question that truly matters is whether this pain leads somewhere better - not just for the national side, but for the grassroots game that keeps rugby alive in communities across West Wales.

Final Score Wales 12-54 France

Fancy feathers don’t stop the law’s net

SQuaaaaaRK! Oi, you lotgather round the fish bins, I got news hotter than a chip fresh out the fryer.

Apparently one of them posh palace types - you know, the ones what wave from balconies and never have to fight a gull for a sausage - has been nicked by the police. Proper arrested. Not a polite “would you mind stepping this way, sir?” but a full-fat copper situation. Blue lights, paperwork, the lot.

Now I’ll tell you what’s shocked me most, and it ain’t the arrest itself. It’s that suddenly; SUDDENLY - he’s being treated like an ordinary citizen.

Welcome to the club, mate.

Down here on Milford Haven docks, ordinary citizens get treated like ordinary citizens every day. Try nicking a prawn off a trawler without permission and see how far your royal blood gets you. Spoiler: about three seconds before Dai the Deckhand chases you with a rope.

What’s really rattled the human world is the mystique thing. The

sparkle. The fairy dust. Turns out when you take away the uniforms, medals, and shiny carriages, you’ve just got… a bloke. Same as anyone else queuing in Greggs, except with fewer loyalty points.

SQUAWK! Imagine that.

I’ve always said it, mind. Humans love a bit of pageantry. Put someone in a fancy hat and suddenly everyone goes quiet like seagulls when the harbourmaster walks past. But hats don’t make you special. Trust me: I once wore a Burger King crown for three days and nobody saluted me.

There’s also all this talk about “a new era for Britain.” Oh please. Britain changes era every time Tesco moves the meal deal.

What it really means is this: the old unspoken rule: that some people float above the rest of us like a gull riding a thermal... has taken a knock. Gravity’s working again.

And gravity, my friends, is very democratic.

Kings, princes, politicians, dockworkers, seagulls; we all end up on the same pavement eventually. Usually because someone’s dropped chips.

Now don’t get me wrong. I got no personal vendetta against royalty. If one of them wants to pop down the docks with a bag of battered cod, I’ll happily grant them honorary gull status. Sir Squawks-a-Lot, Duke of Fish Fingers.

But the lesson here is simple: titles

don’t stop consequences. Prestige doesn’t cancel accountability. And polish doesn’t hide a bad smell forever; believe me, I live next to a bait fridge. So Britain ain’t entering a new era. It’s just remembering an old truth. Nobody’s above the law. Except maybe seagulls. Because technically, you can’t prove I stole that sandwich. SQUAAAAAARK!

Simple steps to keep your dog healthy and happy

Practical advice for Pembrokeshire pet owners on diet, exercise, prevention and wellbeing

DOG ownership is one of life’s great joys, but it also comes with responsibility. Across Pembrokeshire and the wider West Wales region, thousands of families rely on their dogs for companionship, security and emotional support. Keeping a dog healthy is not just about reacting when something goes wrong — it is about prevention, routine care and understanding your pet’s needs at every stage of life.

Veterinary professionals say that many common health problems seen in dogs are avoidable with good basic care. From nutrition and exercise to mental stimulation and regular check-ups, small daily decisions can make a significant difference to a dog’s quality of life and lifespan.

balanCEd diET MaTTERS

Nutrition is the foundation of good health. Dogs require a balanced diet that includes protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals in the correct proportions. Highquality commercial dog foods are designed to meet these needs, but owners should always choose products appropriate for their dog’s age, size and activity level.

Obesity is one of the most common problems seen by vets in the UK. Overfeeding, too many treats and lack of exercise can quickly lead to weight gain, which increases the risk of joint problems, heart disease and diabetes.

Owners should monitor their dog’s body condition regularly. You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without pressing too hard, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. If you are unsure, a vet or veterinary nurse can advise on healthy weight targets.

Fresh water should always be available, and sudden changes in appetite or drinking habits should be checked by a professional.

REgulaR EXERCiSE and aCTiviTy

Exercise is essential not only for physical health but also for mental wellbeing. Pembrokeshire offers excellent opportunities for dog walking, from coastal paths and

to woodland trails and parks. Daily walks help maintain muscle tone, support cardiovascular health and prevent boredom.

The amount of exercise required depends on breed, age and health. Working breeds such as collies or spaniels typically need more activity than smaller companion breeds. Puppies and older dogs also have different needs, and exercise should be adjusted accordingly.

Mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, training sessions and interactive play can help prevent behavioural problems that arise from boredom or frustration.

ROuTinE vETERinaRy

Preventative healthcare is one of the most effective ways to protect a dog’s wellbeing. Regular vaccinations protect against serious diseases such as parvovirus, distemper and leptospirosis. Flea, tick and worm treatments are also essential, particularly in rural areas where dogs may encounter livestock or wildlife.

Annual health checks allow vets to detect problems early, often before symptoms become obvious. Dental disease, for example, is extremely common in dogs but frequently goes unnoticed by owners until it becomes advanced.

Microchipping is a legal requirement in the UK and

greatly increases the chances of reunion if a dog goes missing. Keeping contact details up to date is just as important as having the chip itself.

dEnTal and gROOMing CaRE

Dental health is often overlooked but plays a major role in overall wellbeing. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, pain and infection, which in severe cases can affect the heart and kidneys.

Brushing a dog’s teeth with veterinary toothpaste several times a week can significantly reduce problems. Dental chews and specialist diets may also help.

Grooming requirements vary by breed, but regular brushing removes loose hair, prevents matting and allows owners to check for lumps, parasites or skin issues. Nails should be kept at a comfortable length to avoid discomfort when walking.

RECOgniSing SignS OF illnESS

Dogs cannot tell us when something is wrong, so owners must watch for behavioural or physical changes. Warning signs include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, limping, excessive scratching, changes in appetite or unusual behaviour.

Early veterinary attention often leads to better outcomes. Delaying treatment can allow minor issues to develop into more serious conditions. risk of accidents or straying.

beaches

CaRE

Environment boost as solar panels switched on at two schools

TWO Pembrokeshire schools are now generating their own clean electricity after new solar panel systems were switched on as part of a major community energy partnership.

A combined 200kWp of solar capacity has been installed at Ysgol Harri Tudur and Pennar Community School, enabling both schools to reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs and give pupils practical insight into renewable power.

The project is a collaboration between Egni Co-op, Awel Aman Tawe, Pembrokeshire County Council, the Welsh Government Energy Service, Ynni Cymru and National Grid Electricity Distribution.

At Ysgol Harri Tudur, the installation also includes battery storage and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, funded by Ynni Cymru and the Welsh Government Energy Service, helping maximise

the use of locally generated energy.

Nick South, Education and STEM Manager at National Grid Electricity Distribution, said the panels will save around 37 tonnes of carbon annually — equivalent to driving 90,000 miles in a petrol car.

He said the combined solar output would be enough to power 2,000 LED classroom lights for five hours a day, every day.

Dr Rhys Morgan, Net Zero Carbon Project Manager at Pembrokeshire County Council, said the partnership had delivered carbon savings and curriculum enrichment without any capital cost to the council.

Sian Taylor, a teacher at Pennar Community School, said pupils had been campaigning for solar panels for several years and were “absolutely delighted” to see them installed.

Education system showing strengths — but literacy and teaching gaps remain

ESTyn’S Chief inspector has praised examples of strong practice across Wales’ education system but warned that weaknesses in literacy, teaching quality and leadership are still holding too many learners back.

The findings are set out in the education watchdog’s Annual Report, published today, which draws on inspection evidence from schools, colleges, training providers and wider education services during the 2024–2025 academic year.

While the report highlights encouraging developments —

including improvements linked to curriculum reform and new national education bodies — it concludes that the system has not yet worked cohesively enough to ensure consistently high-quality teaching and learning across Wales.

Inspectors identified positive examples, including schools adopting structured approaches to reading, providers building strong professional learning cultures, and local authorities expanding Welsh-medium specialist provision.

However, long-standing challenges remain. These include inconsistencies in leadership and self-evaluation, recruitment difficulties, uneven access to high-quality professional development for teachers, and weaknesses in core skills such as reading, mathematics and digital competence.

Owen Evans, Chief Inspector, said: “This year’s report certainly points to grounds for optimism. Ongoing reform to the curriculum, the new School Improvement Programme, the establishment of Adnodd and Dysgu, and the first fully operational year of Medr provide opportunities to

strengthen coherence across the system.

“We are, however, acutely aware of the increasing pressures on providers, including financial constraints, growing numbers of learners educated other than at school and rising demand for specialist provision. Concerns around literacy levels and teaching quality across Wales remain and without a sharper and more sustained focus in these areas, too many learners will continue to fall short of their potential.”

The report reviews inspection and thematic findings from the past academic year across eighteen sectors, including schools, non-maintained nursery settings, further education colleges, apprenticeships, initial teacher education, Welshlanguage immersion provision and youth work.

It also examines how well education providers are addressing key challenges facing learners in Wales. Priority themes this year include developing humanities teaching, supporting pupils from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, strengthening

independent thinking skills, improving literacy and numeracy across the curriculum, and the impact of leadership on teaching quality.

Mr Evans added: “I would like to thank all settings, providers, staff and learners who continue to demonstrate dedication and commitment despite significant pressures. Estyn remains committed to providing rigorous, constructive and fair independent scrutiny.

“I’m proud to include the innovation and strong practice we have seen across Wales and am optimistic that we can build on these strong foundations. However, decisive action is needed to address systemic weaknesses. We will continue to play our part by highlighting best practice, challenging underperformance and supporting improvement — for learners, for Wales.”

Alongside best-practice case studies, this year’s report is accompanied by a series of podcasts featuring education professionals and learners discussing themes such as apprenticeships and developing independent thinking.

Housing restriction at Hayscastle farm site removed

a Call to remove an agriculture condition imposed back in 1989 on a Pembrokeshire farm site which is said to be “economically unviable” as a farm has been given the goahead.

In an application recommended for approval at the February meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Rosalyn Jayne Evans sought permission for the removal

of an agricultural worker-only condition for residence at Upper Hayscastle Farm, Hayscastle, near Haverfordwest.

The original condition was imposed as part of a 1989-approved planning application.

A report for members said the land, some 26.3 hectares,” is, following independent valuation, not considered to be an ‘economically viable unit in its own right’.”

“The report author contends

this was also likely to have been the case at the time when [the 1988 scheme] was originally granted as no housing for livestock, crop or slurry storage was provided as part of the original consent or since the approval.

“The report also states that whilst the land is productive for uses such as grazing and crops, the lack of building(s) would restrict the economic viability of Dolfach as a separate agricultural holding.

“If investment were to now be made at the holding in relation to dairy or beef farming, the report contends that this would be economically unviable, due to the holding at Dolfach being unable to support a sufficient number of animals to produce the financial return required to sustain the business. The report also highlights that building(s) for livestock would be essential in relation to the prevalence of Bovine TB in the locality.”

It added: “It is considered that the information provided by JJ Morris is sufficient to indicate that the scale of the land holding and the lack of infrastructure would make a farming enterprise at the site an economically unviable proposition.”

It recommended “the existing Section 52 agreement be discharged to remove the requirement for the dwelling to be tied to the land in agriculture at Upper Hayscastle Farm and for the dwelling to be occupied by a person solely or mainly employed before retirement in agriculture”.

The recommendation of approval was moved by Cllr Brian Hall and unanimously backed by committee members.

Surplus lambs thrive on cold milk feeding, university trial finds

a TRial carried out in 2025 at Harper adams university has found that surplus lambs can achieve strong daily growth rates when fed milk replacer mixed and delivered

cold from eight days of age.

The study, using Lamlac ewe milk replacer, recorded an average weaning weight of 15kg at 35 days of age. Individual lamb weights ranged

from 10kg to 19kg, while average daily liveweight gain up to weaning reached 332g per day.

Dr Jessica Cooke, speaking on behalf of Lamlac, said feeding ewe milk replacer cold should be considered a proven and practical technique for producers managing surplus lambs during busy lambing periods.

“Feeding cold milk provides a simple, time-efficient and practical method of rearing surplus lambs on farm, particularly where warm water is not readily available or when lambs of different ages require milk at a consistent temperature,” she said.

“With good attention to detail and suitable environmental conditions, lambs can successfully maintain strong daily growth rates when reared on Lamlac mixed and fed cold from week one. It also reduces labour input compared with preparing and feeding warm milk.”

Colostrum and early management

The trial involved twenty-three Lleyn x Aberblack/Charolais lambs. All were left with the ewe for twenty-four hours to receive colostrum naturally, or were fed colostrum artificially where required.

After the first day, lambs were placed in a training pen and fed warm Lamlac ad-libitum through an Ewe-2 feeder. The milk replacer was mixed

at a rate of 200g powder to 800ml of water.

From day eight, lambs were moved to a larger pen where Lamlac was mixed and delivered cold at 10°C using two Ewe-2 feeders.

Fresh creep feed and straw were introduced from day seven to support rumen development and help minimise digestive upset around weaning.

Weaning targets met Lambs were weaned abruptly at 35 days of age. The target was a minimum bodyweight of 10kg and a daily intake of 250g of solid feed.

Dr Cooke said the findings demonstrate the flexibility available to producers.

“After following recommended rearing practices during the first week of life, feeding lambs cold ad-lib milk offers a straightforward, practical and highly cost-effective method of rearing surplus offspring, particularly where warm water or additional labour are limited.

“However, it is vital that producers use a high-quality milk replacer to ensure good mixing quality and avoid potential problems.”

The trial results suggest cold milk feeding can provide an effective and labour-saving alternative for sheep farmers seeking consistent growth performance in surplus lambs.

Redevelopment plans at Clunderwen dairy farm approved

PlanS for new livestock buildings at a Pembrokeshire dairy farm, aimed at “improved animal husbandry” will not lead to an increase in herd size, councillors heard. In an application recommended for approval at the February meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Mr Roblin of Clynderwen Farm, Clunderwen, sought permission for two livestock building at the 210-hectare dairy farm of 280 cows and 235 head of young stock.

A report for members said each livestock accommodation building would have a length of 77 m, a width of 33m, an eaves height of 3.6m and a ridge height of 8.9m

Both buildings would be parallel to each other and would cover a footprint of 5,082sqm (2,541sqm each). The proposal includes a total of 308 cubicles, loafing and feed areas, with a central feed passage in the middle.

It said the buildings at the site, some 200 metres from the nearby Redhill school and just over a kilometre from Clunderwen, would sit a

little lower than those already on site, and the proposals would not lead to any increase in herd size.

Speaking at the meeting, agent Gethin Beynon said the scheme would lead to “improved animal husbandry to serve the existing milking herd and to support the next farming generation”.

He told members the application was accompanied by environmental enhancements and screening, with no objections from members of the public or any statutory bodies.

Mr Beynon went on to say the herd was currently housed in historic farm site buildings that “fall short of current standards,” with a farm move towards Holstein cattle which need more space.

“It will improve animal husbandry and efficiencies in what is currently a challenging market,” he concluded.

Approval was moved by Cllr Alan Dennison, seconded by Cllr Brian Hall, and unanimously backed by committee members.

laST week, we kicked off the Spring party conference season by attending the Welsh Conservative Conference in llandudno, where we outlined our key manifesto priorities for the next Senedd and Welsh government. in the weeks ahead, we look forward to continuing discussions with representatives from across the political spectrum.

Our message is clear and consistent: Welsh family farms need stability, sustainability, and longterm policy certainty. At a time of significant change and challenge for the agricultural sector, it is essential that the next government provides the clarity and support required to safeguard the future of family farming in Wales.

At its core, our manifesto calls for continued collaboration to deliver a fair and fitfor-purpose Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).

The FUW is urging the next Welsh Government to work closely with the industry to deliver a scheme that secures a thriving and sustainable future for family farms, including a funding uplift from the current Universal-layer budget of £238 million to fully mitigate the Scheme’s estimated economic impacts, an indexlinked budget to provide certainty for the future and a five-year financial framework to ensure businesses can make well-informed decisions with confidence.

Our manifesto also emphasises the need to strengthen Wales’ food system, highlighting the importance of production, processing, and public

procurement.

The continued missed opportunity over public procurement in Wales was outlined last month following a recent report by the Countryside Alliance. It revealed that Welsh councils are heavily reliant, for example, on imported poultry for school meals with Merthyr Tydfil reporting 99.35% from countries such as China, Thailand, and Brazil, and Conwy 94% of its chicken being imported from outside the EU. These findings highlight our concerns over food standards, sustainability and the shocking failure to support local producers.

The FUW has long campaigned for a Welsh public procurement programme that truly shortens supply chains, strengthens circular economies and champions Welsh produce across all public and food service sectors. It’s not a surprise therefore that one of our key manifesto demands is to deliver a sea-change in local procurement ensuring that local food and producers are prioritised throughout Wales.

Public procurement represents a huge opportunity for Welsh farmers, not just in schools, but also in hospitals and the wider public sector. By prioritising Welsh produce, the next Welsh Government can support local jobs, reduce carbon emissions and create a resilient, sustainable food system. We will continue to encourage politicians to seize this opportunity and make a meaningful, lasting difference for the families who grow, process, and serve food across Wales.

Volvo launches EX30 Black Edition with striking new look

available for order in the uK now, the black Edition styling can be seen in several exterior details, including the prominent high gloss black 19-inch wheels and tinted rear windows. The front grille strikethrough, iron mark, rear volvo script and model name

badge are also adorned in high gloss black, alongside the colour coordinated roof spoiler and door mirror covers.

The bold new Black Edition is available with one, elegant exterior colour (Onyx Black) and one unique interior colourway

(Indigo). The metallic Onyx Black paint sparkles in daylight while reduced light accentuates its elegance. The sporty interior in deep blue indigo with studioinspired textile materials and upcycled denim trim is exclusive to the Black Edition.

Priced from £40,060 in Single

Motor Plus trim, the Black Edition comes with Volvo’s advanced sensing technology with up to five radars, five cameras and twelve ultra-sonic sensors continuously monitoring the car’s surroundings to help support the driver. Other equipment highlights include adaptive cruise control and a powered tailgate for convenience.

With a range of up to 295.2 miles (combined) and a 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds in Single Motor Extended range form, the EX30 comes as standard with a heat pump to maximise the distance it can travel between charges.

Inside, the Black Edition comes with Volvo’s air quality measurement and remote cabin air pre-cleaning and a 12.3inch centre display, as well as a plethora of driver support technology.

Following the introduction of the Black Edition in 2023 on the XC60, the EX30 becomes the latest model to receive the treatment. The Black Edition is now available across six models: XC90, XC60, XC40, EX40, EC40 and EX30.

The EX30 was the UK’s tenth best-selling battery electric vehicle in 2025. Building on its popularity for its range, stylish design and quick charging, the compact SUV with its Black Edition enhancements is expected to further increase its appeal.

The addition of the Black Edition variant adds another level of choice and is available in Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor Performance configurations.

“The Black Edition variants of our models have struck a chord with buyers in the past and the EX30 looks really striking with the design additions, giving it even more presence. We are really pleased to offer the Black Edition of our compact premium SUV to customers in the UK,” says Rob Deane, Commercial Operations Director, Volvo Car UK.

The Black Edition will be available on Plus and Ultra trim levels across the Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor Performance Powertrains.

For the full specification details, please visit Volvo EX30 Black Edition.

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Haworth Autobody Earns 'Which? Trusted Trader' Approval

Family-run bodyshop recognised for high standards of workmanship and customer care

H aWORTH au TO b O dy has cemented its reputation as one of the region’s most dependable vehicle repair centres after being officially accredited as a Which? Trusted Trader - a distinction reserved for businesses that consistently demonstrate outstanding workmanship, transparent practices, and excellent customer service.

The family-run bodyshop, which has built a loyal customer base through years of precision repairs and a personable, customer-first approach, underwent a thorough and independent assessment before being granted the accreditation. The process examined not only technical skill and repair standards, but also business procedures, complaint resolution systems, and verified customer feedback.

Which?’s Trusted Trader scheme is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most robust consumer endorsement programmes, with successful applicants required to meet a strict code of conduct and agree to ongoing monitoring. Only a small proportion of businesses achieve the status, placing Haworth Autobody among a select group of traders nationwide

who have met the organisation’s exacting criteria.

Owner Bobby Haworth said the recognition was a proud moment for the business and its staff.

“We’ve always believed that doing the job properly, being upfront with customers, and standing by our work is the only way to operate,” he said. “To have that approach independently recognised by Which?

Haworth Autobody can expect clear communication throughout the repair process, detailed and honest estimates, and work carried out to a consistently high standard. The workshop handles a wide range of services, including accident repairs, paintwork restoration, and cosmetic bodywork, with an emphasis on quality and attention to detail.

means a great deal to us, and it gives customers extra confidence when they choose us.”

For motorists, the accreditation provides added peace of mind at a time when trust and transparency in vehicle repairs are more important than ever. Customers using

The business says the endorsement is not a finishing line but a foundation for future growth. Haworth Autobody plans to continue investing in staff training, modern equipment, and service development to ensure standards remain high as the business evolves. The team also hopes the Which? Trusted Trader approval will help strengthen relationships with both new customers and long-standing clients across the region.

With consumer confidence increasingly tied to independent verification and proven reliability, Haworth Autobody’s latest achievement marks a significant milestone, reinforcing its standing as a trusted name in local vehicle repair..

Business activity returns to growth as optimism hits 16-month high

WELSH firms returned to growth in January, with business confidence climbing to its highest level in 16 months, according to the latest Cymru growth Tracker from natWest.

The Wales Business Activity Index — a seasonally adjusted measure of month-on-month changes across manufacturing and services — rose to 50.3 in January, up from 49.4 in December. Any reading above 50 signals growth, ending a four-month run of contraction for the Welsh private sector.

The improvement was supported by a continued rise in new orders, although the pace of expansion eased and remained only modest overall.

Business optimism strengthened for the third consecutive month, reaching its highest point since September 2024. Firms said they were hopeful that increased investment would help drive

growth throughout 2026, despite ongoing concerns about the impact of higher prices on customer demand.

However, inflationary pressures remained elevated. Input costs rose at the jointfastest pace since last August, matching December’s fourmonth high and remaining

historically strong. Of the 12 UK regions monitored, only Northern Ireland recorded a sharper increase in cost pressures.

Welsh companies raised their selling prices for the second month in a row in an effort to pass on higher costs. The rate of price increases was the steepest since May 2025 and broadly in

line with the UK average.

Despite the return to growth, staffing levels continued to fall. Workforce numbers declined at the fastest rate since December 2024 — the steepest reduction of any UK region — as firms cited financial pressures and cost control measures.

Backlogs of work fell at a marked pace, faster than in December, suggesting businesses were able to work through outstanding orders as output improved.

Jessica Shipman, Chair of the NatWest Cymru Board, said Welsh businesses were showing “growing optimism about future output”, but warned that cost pressures remained significant and were contributing to job losses.

Although activity returned to growth, the rate of expansion in Wales remained well below the UK average, and confidence levels were slightly weaker than the national trend.

Haverfordwest Kings Arms pub basement flat scheme refuse

a SCHEME to convert the basement of a grade-ii-listed former pub in a Pembrokeshire town’s conservation area to a flat has been refused by planners who said it would create an “oppressive living environment”.

In the application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Toyeb Ali Rahman, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, sought permission to convert the basement of the former Kings Arms Hotel, Dew Street, Haverfordwest, the

building most recently used as an Indian takeaway, to a residential flat.

A supporting statement said:

“The Kings Arms Public House was a public house and was formerly a coaching house with a range of former stables to the rear which have been converted to dwellings. It is a mid-terrace property fronting the western side of Dew Street close to the town centre of Haverfordwest,”

adding: “Since closure the public house has been used as a takeaway restaurant and is a mixture of flats and offices.”

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

“As such, there would be no change to the impact of the building or proposal on the locality. In fact, basement area is not at all visible from the street scene along Dew Street.”

However, the scheme was refused by county planners on three points.

“The proposed change of use would result in a self-contained residential unit that fails to provide an acceptable standard of residential amenity for future occupiers. The habitable accommodation would be served by no external windows,

resulting in inadequate levels of natural daylight and outlook and creating a poor-quality and oppressive living environment.

“Furthermore, insufficient information has been submitted to demonstrate that adequate ventilation, air quality, and moisture control could be achieved without harm to the character and appearance of the listed building.”

Planners also said the proposals would, through its design and use of materials, “fail to respect the special architectural and historic interest of the listed building”.

The final reason for refusal was the scheme would “result in an increase in nitrogen discharges draining into the Milford Haven Inner waterbody of the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation (SAC) where features are known to be in unfavourable condition due to current evidence of both chemical and biological failure,” with insufficient information to demonstrate mitigation measures which would allow the proposed development to achieve nutrient neutrality.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Thousands of green jobs promised — including in Pembrokeshire scheme

a MaJOR boost for Wales’ renewable energy sector could bring thousands of new jobs after a record number of projects secured uK government backing — including one development in Pembrokeshire.

Twenty large-scale renewable energy schemes across Wales have been awarded contracts in the latest Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction round, providing long-term price guarantees for electricity generation and allowing construction to move forward.

The successful projects include five onshore wind farms, 12 solar developments and three tidal energy schemes, with a combined capacity of more than 530 megawatts.

Among them is the Pembrokeshire Solar Park, a proposed 9.9MW solar development which could contribute to local energy generation and economic activity in the county.

Welsh Government ministers said the projects together could create

thousands of green jobs while helping Wales meet its carbon reduction targets.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “I am delighted these projects have been successful in the latest auction round. As well as meeting vital targets to reduce carbon, onshore wind and tidal energy bring major economic benefits and high-quality jobs to Wales. The Welsh Government is committed to ensuring Wales is at the forefront of the green energy revolution.”

Nearly all available UK tidal funding in this auction round — 99.65% — was secured by Welsh projects, strengthening Wales’ position in marine energy development.

Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said improving planning certainty had been key to attracting investment.

She said: “We know how important clarity and certainty are for developers, which is why we are working hard to speed up the planning process for major infrastructure projects. Our

new legislation and our investment in capacity building is already making a difference.”

The Welsh Government said the developments will also create supply-chain opportunities for local businesses across Wales.

While the majority of projects are located outside west Wales, the inclusion of the Pembrokeshire scheme highlights the county’s continuing role in the transition toward renewable energy, alongside existing and planned marine and hydrogen initiatives around the Milford Haven Waterway.

The Contracts for Difference scheme is the UK Government’s main mechanism for supporting lowcarbon electricity generation, providing developers with a guaranteed price for power over a fixed period to reduce financial risk and encourage investment.

Further details about timelines for individual projects are expected to emerge as developers progress planning and construction phases.

Milford Haven-South Hook LNG gas pipeline gets green light

THE Final stage of a call for a 1.5km hydrogen gas pipeline in Pembrokeshire in connection with a previously granted scheme for green energy production has been given the go-ahead by the national park.

Late last year Pembrokeshire County Council approved a scheme by Zurich-based MorGen Energy

Ltd, previously known as H2 Energy Europe, sought permission for a 1.5km six-inch 10-bar low-pressure hydrogen pipeline and associated Above Ground Installation at the Impala Terminal, Milford Haven to the South Hook Liquid Natural Gas (LNG)

Terminal.

A supporting statement through agent Fisher German said the scheme crossed both Pembrokeshire County Council and the national park authorities, with a similar application before that authority.

It added: “The proposals form part of the West Wales Hydrogen project, where planning permission was granted on October 6, 2023, for the development of a new 20MW hydrogen production facility at the Impala Terminal (formerly Puma Energy) in Milford Haven.

“The approved hydrogen production facility which uses electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, where the oxygen is a by-product of the process. The hydrogen production plant will produce 1,875 tons of hydrogen per year. Hydrogen will be distributed via high pressure vessels (40 ft. containers) to various customers in the closer vicinity, opening the hydrogen market to a large variety of customers.

“Hydrogen will also be distributed to the South Hook LNG Terminal and it is proposed that this will be via a new six-inch 10-bar hydrogen pipeline. The option to supply hydrogen to the South Hook LNG terminal via high pressure hydrogen containers was dismissed due to safety considerations at the

terminal.

“This application therefore seeks planning permission for a section of below ground hydrogen pipeline within the jurisdiction of Pembrokeshire County Council, which comprises the north part of the route from the hydrogen plant at Impala to the South Hook LNG Terminal, alongside an AGI at the Impala Terminal.”

An officer report accompanying that approval said the southern part of the proposed pipeline was within the jurisdiction of the Pembroke Coast National Park Authority.

A national park officer report for that part, recommending approval, said its section of the pipeline “is a linear parcel of land comprising approximately 0.994 hectares,” adding: “It is mainly the location of a disused railway, now overgrown with scrub and grassland, in the open countryside.”

It added: “The development site is cross-boundary, situated primarily within the jurisdiction of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority (the south-west extent), with a small section of the proposed pipeline (and an aboveground installation (AGI)) within the Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) LPA area (the north-east extent).”

The national park side was conditionally approved by planners.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Hywel Dda hospital services decisions will be made next week

dECiSiOnS following Hywel dda university Heath board’s recent consultation on nine of its services, which includes 22 alternatives to the initial options proposed, are to take place at a special twoday extraordinary meeting next week.

Last year, the Health Board consulted with its communities on options for change in critical care, dermatology, emergency general surgery, endoscopy, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, stroke, radiology and urology.

It said its Clinical Services Plan focuses on nine healthcare services that are “fragile and in need of change”.

At the launch of the consultation it said the services, and potential changes at the four main hospitals of

Haverfordwest’s Withybush, Carmarthen’s Glangwili, Llanelli’s Prince Philip and Aberystwyth’s Bronglais, would see no changes to how people access emergency care (A&E) or minor injury care as part of the consultation, with an ongoing separate consultation on minor injury care at Prince Philip.

These nine clinical services were selected because of risks to them being able to continue to offer safe, high-quality services, or care in a timely manner, the board has previously said.

The proposed changes, with many different options in each of the nine services across the area, could mean some hospitals gaining or losing

services, along with community site options in some cases.

An independent consultation report prepared by Opinion Research Services is part of the information the Board will consider on February 18 and 19; with more than 4,000 questionnaire responses in addition to the feedback shared at public events, staff meetings and stakeholder sessions.

During the consultation, communities shared an additional 190 alternative ideas for the services, which have been narrowed down to 22.

These will be considered alongside the options that were shared during the consultation, with members also considering whether further engagement, or additional information may be required, before a final decision

is made.

Of the nine areas, critical care has three options, and one alternative; dermatology four options; emergency general surgery, two options and two alternative; endoscopy, three options and one alternative; ophthalmology, three options and six alternatives; orthopaedics, four options and five alternatives; stroke, two options and two alternatives; radiology, four options and four alternatives; and urology, one option and one alternative.

Dr Neil Wooding, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “At our meeting next week, the Board will carefully consider the consultation feedback alongside the latest clinical evidence, workforce insights, updated impact assessments and the alternative options that were put forward during the consultation.

“Our responsibility is to consider the full range of evidence and ensure we make decisions that ensure that our services are sustainable for the future. No decisions have been made ahead of the Board.

“We are committed to a thorough and transparent process, ensuring each option and alternative options are considered in the round, and focused on improving services for the people who rely on them.”

The first day of the twoday event will be dedicated to reviewing the evidence and considering the options in detail, with decisions on the second.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

NHS pay row erupts as ministers confirm 3.3% rise

nHS staff across Wales will receive a 3.3% consolidated pay increase from april 1, 2026, after the Welsh government accepted recommendations from the 39th nHS Pay Review body.

The uplift applies to all staff employed under Agenda for Change terms and conditions, including nurses, healthcare assistants, porters,

cleaners and other frontline health workers.

Health and Social Care Secretary Jeremy Miles said the award followed independent economic advice and was above current inflation forecasts issued by the Bank of England and the Office for Budget Responsibility.

He said inflation was expected to fall progressively towards the two

percent target by early 2027 and described the settlement as fair and responsible within the current financial climate.

lOWEST-Paid STaFF

The Welsh Government confirmed that its commitment to pay the Real Living Wage from April 2026 means the lowest-paid NHS staff will see increases ranging from 3.8% to 5.9%.

However, it was also noted that Bands 1 and 2 and the entry point of Band 3 will remain on the same pay rate from April because the previously announced living wage uplift already exceeds the Pay Review Body recommendation.

Ministers said discussions will continue alongside England and Northern Ireland on structural reforms to the Agenda for Change framework, with any agreed changes backdated to April 2026.

uniOn angER

The announcement prompted sharp criticism from health unions, who argue that with inflation currently at 4.2%, many staff will still see a reduction in real-terms pay.

The Royal College of Nursing described the award as “very disappointing” and said it falls short of commitments to restore nursing pay to 2008 levels.

RCN Wales Executive Director

Helen Whyley said: “At a time when the cost of living remains high another real term pay cut is being imposed again on a workforce already stretched to its limits.”

She also criticised the continued use of the Pay Review Body process after unions had raised expectations of direct negotiations.

Meanwhile, UNISON Cymru said health workers are likely to be angry at what it called “another below inflation pay award”.

UNISON Cymru health committee chair Dawn Ward said some NHS staff were struggling with rising household bills and felt undervalued.

The union has called for Wales to move towards a Scottish-style model of direct pay negotiations between government, employers and unions.

POliTiCal PRESSuRE

The pay announcement is likely to intensify debate about NHS funding, recruitment and retention across Wales.

While ministers argue the settlement reflects economic forecasts and financial constraints, unions maintain that headline percentages do not reflect the pressures facing frontline staff.

With morale described as fragile and vacancies continuing across Welsh health boards, the dispute is expected to remain politically sensitive in the months ahead.

Councillor raises fresh concerns over West Wales hospital services

a WEST WalES councillor has accused health chiefs and the Welsh government of repeatedly failing local communities over the future of hospital services.

Cllr Aaron Carey has issued a public statement calling for what he describes as “honest leadership and 21st-century care” for residents across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

In his statement, Cllr Carey said hospitals including Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth and Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest are “lifelines” that must be strengthened rather than allowed to decline.

He claimed Hywel Dda University Health Board had repeatedly reassured the public that services would be protected, only for those assurances to be weakened or reversed.

“Time and again, residents have been told that no decisions have been made, that services are safe, or that changes are temporary,” he said. “Too often, those words have proven hollow.”

Cllr Carey also referenced longrunning uncertainty over proposals for a new “super hospital” in the region, arguing that delays and ambiguity surrounding the project had contributed

to what he described as “drift and decline” at Withybush.

He said Bronglais Hospital faces continued pressure, with concerns about staffing levels and the sustainability of key services in rural mid and west Wales.

The councillor further highlighted issues including long ambulance response times, pressures on GP surgeries, reduced community provision and difficulties accessing timely treatment.

Rural communities, he said, should not receive “second-class care”.

South Pembrokeshire Hospital closure

Cllr Carey pointed to the temporary closure of services at South Pembrokeshire Hospital over the Christmas period, which were later reinstated following public pressure and a petition he said he personally presented to the health board.

He claimed that those services were subsequently closed again “without warning or meaningful consultation”.

“This sequence of events speaks volumes about how decisions are being made and how little respect is shown for local voices,” he said.

Call for Welsh Government action

Cllr Carey said Hywel Dda Health Board operates under the oversight of the Welsh Government, which he argued must provide greater intervention and investment.

“We need honesty instead of spin, genuine engagement instead of boxticking consultations, and a clear commitment to strengthening hospitals like Bronglais and Withybush for the long term,” he said.

In previous statements, Hywel Dda University Health Board has said it faces significant financial pressures and workforce challenges, alongside

increasing demand for services across a largely rural region. The board has previously maintained that any changes to services are made with patient safety, sustainability and clinical evidence at the forefront, and that public consultation forms part of its decisionmaking process.

The Welsh Government has also stated that it continues to invest in NHS Wales, including capital funding for new facilities and improvements in community-based care, while working with health boards to ensure services remain safe and sustainable.

Pembrokeshire County Council to end year £4m in credit

PEMbROKESHiRE County Council, which has faced overspends on its budget in the millions in recent years, is predicted to end this year £4m in credit.

A report for members at the February meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, presented by Cabinet member for finance, Cllr Alistair Cameron, said the county’s approved budget for the 2025-26 financial year of £326.6m was, as of the third quarter of the year, predicted to end at £322.6m, representing a projected underspend of £4m.

A good chunk of that saving, as reported in previous financial quarters was due to slippage in the Capital Programme in 2024-25 which has resulted in higher levels of investment income and delayed borrowing costs.

“A projected underspend of £4.429m in Capital Financing Costs and Increased Investment Income of £0.050m has been able to more than offset [other financial pressures],” the report said.

The report also included comments from Director of Resources Jon Haswell: “We

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

are now projecting a year end underspend of £4.0m at the end of Quarter 3, primarily due to the significant underspend in capital financing costs.

“At outturn, it will be proposed that any underspend is placed in the Initiative Fund reserve, to provide additional funding for future Accelerated Change Programme (ACP) bids.

“Both council tax and rent arrears appear to have stabilised, albeit urgent work is required over the coming months and years to recover them. All service budgets within the Resources Directorate are

all projected to remain within budget, with the exception of Finance & Revenue Services/ Resources and Procurement who will be overspent due to additional FIMS software costs.”

The £4m underspend compares with a predicted endof-year underspend of £1m in the previous financial quarter, and predictions of a £2.2m underspend from figures from the first quarter of the financial year.

Pembrokeshire County Council actually ended the last financial year underspending by £2m, in part due to an extra £1.2m raised through second homes tax, councillors have previously heard.

In recent years the situation has been far bleaker, with third quarter projections for the 2023-24 budget of an overspend of £6.6m, £3m up from quarter two’s £3.6m, which in itself was a reduction of the previous quarter one figure of a £4.8m predicted overspend.

The end of the 2024 financial year reduced that to a £3m overspend, and by November 2024 – the 2024-25 year –the council was predicted to overspend by £3.9m, later, last February that prediction reduced to £1.4m, before the final underspend.

Cllr Cameron, who moved the report on the quarter three financial position was noted, said: “The £4m is roughly one per cent under budget, any of us would agree that’s exactly where we’d want to be at this stage of the financial year, and certainly a lot better than previous years’ overspends.”

Leader Cllr Jon Harvey said: “It’s really good to see the departments, by and large, within budgets, on a more financially sustainable path.”

Members agreed to note the report.

Kurtz says he is “still fighting” as election approaches

and South Pembrokeshire

MS spoke candidly about the pressures of public life, the challenges facing his party, and the personal toll of political scrutiny, while insisting he remains focused on local campaigning.

Mr Kurtz said: “We’re working hard for the win, but the world’s not going to end on May 8 if I don’t get re-elected.”

The comments reflect what political observers describe as a realistic assessment of the electoral environment facing the Conservatives across Wales ahead of polling day on Thursday, May 7.

PRESSuRE OF PubliC liFE

background, emphasising his connection to farming communities and countryside issues — a key theme likely to feature heavily in his re-election campaign across rural parts of the constituency.

lOCal RECORd undER SCRuTiny

Mr Kurtz has represented Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire since being elected to the Senedd in 2021.

POliTiCal landSCaPE CHanging

The upcoming election will take place under new Senedd arrangements, with boundary and voting system reforms expected to alter the political landscape across Wales.

Welsh Parliament election in May. The Carmarthen West

In the Western Mail article, Mr Kurtz discussed the intensity of modern politics, including criticism on social media and the impact on family life. He suggested resilience was essential for anyone working in public office, describing politics as demanding but worthwhile.

The MS also highlighted his rural upbringing and agricultural

During that time he has spoken on issues including agriculture policy, rural economic development, and healthcare pressures, often criticising Welsh Government performance on NHS waiting times and public services.

However, with the election approaching, local voters are expected to judge candidates primarily on issues affecting daily life in Pembrokeshire, including GP access, hospital waiting lists, transport infrastructure, employment opportunities, and the cost of living.

The constituency has historically been competitive, with support shifting between Conservatives, Labour and Plaid Cymru in different elections. Analysts suggest the result in May could be influenced both by national political trends and local campaigning strength.

CaMPaign PERiOd bEginS

While Mr Kurtz has not yet formally launched his constituency campaign, activity from all parties is expected to increase significantly in the coming weeks.

The Herald will be speaking to voters and candidates across Pembrokeshire as part of its continuing coverage of the Senedd election campaign.

SaMuEl KuRTZ has said he remains determined to retain his Senedd seat despite growing political uncertainty, following a prominent double-page interview published ahead of the

Darren Millar rules out post-election pact with Reform or Plaid

THE lEadER of the Welsh Conservatives has moved to shut down speculation about postelection alliances, insisting he will not enter into any agreement with either Reform uK or Plaid Cymru following May’s Senedd election.

Speaking ahead of his party’s spring conference in Llandudno on Friday (Feb 13), Darren Millar is expected to tell members that the only mandate he is seeking is directly from voters.

He will say that if people choose the Welsh Conservatives at the ballot box, they will get a Conservative administration — not a coalition stitched together after the votes are counted.

His stance mirrors comments previously made by UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who has argued that parties discussing deals before polling day are not focused on delivering for the public.

REFORM diSMiSSEd aS “nOT REady FOR POWER”

With opinion polls suggesting Reform could perform strongly in May, Mr Millar is set to acknowledge that some voters may feel drawn to the party, but he will question whether it is prepared to shoulder the responsibility of governing. He is expected to argue that Reform has no credible pathway to running the Welsh Government, pointing to past

controversies within its Welsh leadership and questioning the substance of its policy platform.

Reform’s UK leader, Nigel Farage, has previously suggested the party’s immediate aim is to become a significant opposition force rather than take office — a position the Welsh Conservatives say underlines its lack of readiness for government.

Darren Millar: The Welsh Conservative leader has ruled out any post-election pact with Reform UK or Plaid Cymru ahead of May’s Senedd vote

Plaid bRandEd “FOCuSEd On SEPaRaTiOn”

Turning to Plaid Cymru, Mr Millar will accuse the party of propping up Labour in the Senedd while attempting to present itself as an alternative.

He is expected to claim that Plaid’s long-term goal of Welsh independence overshadows its domestic agenda, arguing that constitutional change — rather than bread-and-butter issues — remains its central objective.

According to Mr Millar, a Plaid-led government would prioritise breaking away from the United Kingdom, a move he says would create economic uncertainty and put pensions, crossborder employment and public finances at risk.

labOuR RECORd

undER FiRE

The Welsh Conservative leader will also target Welsh Labour, which has governed Wales since devolution.

He is set to argue that after nearly three decades in power, Labour’s record on the NHS, schools and the economy has left Wales lagging behind other parts of the UK.

Among the issues likely to be raised are long NHS waiting lists, concerns about educational standards and rising unemployment figures.

Mr Millar will also reference recent remarks by First Minister Eluned Morgan about supporting the hospitality sector — comments that drew headlines — suggesting that economic challenges facing Welsh businesses run far deeper than consumer habits.

ElECTiOn baTTlE linES dRaWn

With polling indicating that the contest in May could be highly competitive, the Welsh Conservatives are positioning themselves as the only alternative to what they describe as “27 years of Labour failure”, while rejecting both nationalist and populist rivals.

Whether that message resonates with voters across Pembrokeshire and the wider west Wales region remains to be seen.

New Welsh Government plastic bans held up by internal market talks

THE WElSH gOvERnMEnT has confirmed that further bans on single-use plastic products will not be enacted before the end of the current Senedd term — but reiterated its commitment to phasing out what it calls “unnecessary” plastics to protect the environment.

In a written statement on Wednesday (Feb 11), Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs Huw Irranca-Davies said planned “Phase 2” restrictions under the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Wales) Act 2023 will be delayed as officials work with UK governments to secure an exemption from the United Kingdom Internal Market Act 2020 (UKIMA).

Phase 1 of the act, which came into force in October 2023, already bans a range of commonly littered items such as plastic cutlery, drinks stirrers, polystyrene cups and takeaway containers.

Under Phase 2, ministers had intended to restrict polystyrene lids, single-use plastic carrier bags and products made of oxo-degradable plastic by spring 2026 — but Mr IrrancaDavies said that timetable is no longer feasible this term due to the ongoing

negotiations over internal market arrangements.

“We are committed to seeing polystyrene lids … plastic single-use carrier bags or products made of oxodegradable plastic banned and are working to achieve that as soon as possible,” he said in the statement.

Environmental groups and campaigners have welcomed the Government’s overall ambition but stressed the urgency of moving from pledges to action.

A spokesperson for Keep Wales Tidy said the original legislation was a crucial step in tackling plastic waste, noting that plastics remain one of the most common forms of litter found on beaches and in waterways. “This move shows intent, but communities are looking for swift implementation,” the group added in a recent comment on social media about Wales’s ongoing efforts to reduce single-use plastics.

Wales was one of the first parts of the UK to target carrier bags, introducing a 5p charge for single-use plastic bags in 2011, which saw usage drop dramatically — by over 90 per cent according to government data.

Critics from parts of the business community, including hospitality and retail sectors, have previously expressed

concerns over the practical impacts of rapidly changing plastic regulations, particularly where alternatives are not readily available or where internal market uncertainties create compliance challenges for firms operating across the UK.

Mr Irranca-Davies said the Welsh Government remains committed to the wider goals of its Beyond Recycling circular economy strategy — including a **zero-waste **ambition by 2050 — and to ending what he described as a

“throw-away culture” that harms the environment and future generations. He also highlighted progress already made: Wales now ranks among the world’s highest for household recycling rates, a significant rise from less than five per cent at the point of devolution. The Government says wet wipes containing plastic will be restricted from 18 December 2026 and that it will continue working with UK partners to resolve internal market issues and push remaining bans forward.

W ITH ANDREW LyE

emocrat Treasury Spokesperson and deputy leader daisy Cooper MP has unveiled a radical plan to ‘get britain growing again to end the cost of living crisis’.

Daisy Cooper argued that the UK is trapped in a “doom loop” of low economic growth and that a fundamental shift in machinery of government is required to Get Britain Growing Again.

To deliver this, she announced plans to replace the Treasury with a new Department for Growth based in Birmingham, to end the cycle of economic decline under successive Conservative and Labour governments and end the cost of living crisis.

“We don’t just need to get rid of this anti-growth Chancellor, we need to get rid of the anti-growth Treasury, ” said Daisy Cooper.

The new powerful Department for Growth would have a clear mandate to boost long-term prosperity and end the costof-living crisis. It would have responsibility for setting taxes, along with putting together a growth strategy, deciding on strategic national infrastructure projects and setting fiscal rules.

Basing the Department in Birmingham will send a strong signal that the Liberal Democrats are committed to closing the “yawning gap” between London and all other parts of the UK.

The Department for Business and Trade would be merged into the new Department for Growth, ensuring that business and investment is aligned with national priorities. A separate Department for Public Expenditure would oversee departmental spending and ensure value for money for taxpayers.

The Liberal Democrats said the plans would help prevent future Governments from prioritising “short term tax grabs” over long-term growth.

On the UK’s economic potential, Daisy Cooper said:

“Our United Kingdom is an amazing country and has enormous potential. But we can never take this for granted, and we must accept that we are stuck in a rut. Stuck in a doom loop of low economic growth. And that is a big problem. Economic growth matters.

“We need to Get Britain Growing Again to end the cost of living crisis. We need to Get Britain Growing Again to rebuild our public services. We need to Get Britain Growing Again to invest in the climate transition and create the well-paid climate jobs of the future.

“If we don’t Get Britain Growing Again then we’re trapped: trapped paying more and more, but with less and less. It’s why everyone is working harder and harder. Paying more and more in tax. And getting less and less in return.

“So Getting Britain Growing Again must be any government’s number one goal.”

On the new Department for Growth, Liberal Democrat Treasury Spokesperson Daisy Cooper said:

“This new Department for Growth would focus minds on what growth could help us achieve. Stronger economic growth would finally be recognised as the only sustainable, long-term solution to end the UK cost of living crisis. Investment in our NHS, renewable energy and defence would not be seen as a cost but as the way to build a healthy workforce, develop strategic competitive advantage and grow the economy.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Pembrokeshire Senedd Tories slam devolution policing power grab

PEM b ROKESH i RE’S Senedd Members Paul davies and Samuel Kurtz have blasted fresh calls to hand control of policing from Westminster to Cardiff bay.

Following renewed calls from Plaid and Labour to transfer responsibility for policing in Wales to the Senedd, the pair confirmed that a Welsh Conservative Government in May would block any such move.

Commenting, Paul Davies said: “Those advocating the devolution of policing are mistaken if they believe it will improve police services in

Pembrokeshire.”

“Rather than creating another costly layer of bureaucracy in Cardiff Bay, the four Welsh forces should focus on making better use of their existing budgets.”

“We need stronger rural crime teams, greater investment in early intervention and youth services, and support for community-led crime prevention. The tools already exist within Dyfed-Powys Police, devolution is not a magic wand.”

Samuel Kurtz added: “Further devolution is not in the interests of Pembrokeshire residents, and

there is little public demand for it.”

“Currently, all four Welsh forces either require improvement or are delivering only the minimum standard on key metrics and this has got to change.”

“Communities like ours need policing that tackles rural crime, theft from vehicles and anti-social behaviour. Debates over whether the UK or Welsh Government is in charge are a distraction and will delay delivering the improvements people want to see.”

Paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz

Government backs down after Reform legal challenge over postponed local elections

THE uK gOvERnMEnT has withdrawn its decision to postpone local council elections in England scheduled for May 2026 after a legal challenge brought by Reform uK, according to

official court correspondence seen by The Herald.

A letter from the Government Legal Department, dated Monday (Feb 16), confirms that the Secretary of State has decided to reverse the earlier

BLUE VIEW

With Paul davies MS

business Rates – Without Meaningful Change, Our Communities Will Suffer As Pembrokeshire

Herald readers know, the Senedd elections are fast approaching and residents and businesses across Pembrokeshire are making it very clear what they want to see from the next Welsh Government.

advice and have their questions addressed by sector experts.

postponement “in the light of recent legal advice”, meaning the elections will now proceed as planned in May.

The claim — Reform UK Party Limited v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government — had been lodged in the Administrative Court in London.

The correspondence states that the Housing Minister, who had not been involved in the original decision, was asked to reconsider the position urgently due to the tight timetable. Following that review, ministers concluded that the elections should go ahead.

The Government has also indicated it will seek to agree an order with the claimant to formally dispose of the case and will pay Reform UK’s legal costs.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claimed victory following the development, writing on social media that the party had “taken this Labour government to court and won”.

He added: “In collusion with the Tories, Keir Starmer tried to stop 4.6 million people voting on May 7th. Only Reform UK fights for democracy.”

The Government has not publicly commented in detail on the claim itself, but the letter makes clear that the reversal was prompted by legal advice rather than a full court judgment.

The dispute centred on the proposed postponement of elections across 30 local authorities, a move which critics argued would have delayed millions of voters from going to the polls.

With the decision now withdrawn, preparations for May’s local elections are expected to proceed as normal.

One of the most pressing issues that has been raised with me is business rates. Local businesses, and in particular hospitality businesses, have been calling for urgent support, following recent rate revaluations done by the Valuation Office Agency. In some cases, businesses have seen their rateable values doubled, tripled or even quadrupled and owners are understandably worried about how they’ll be able to afford to keep their doors open.

Here in Pembrokeshire, a significant number of businesses have contacted me and my colleague, Samuel Kurtz MS, who represents Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire and so we convened an online Business Advice Forum to bring businesses together to share and discuss their concerns. We were encouraged by the strong turnout, with around 100 businesses from across west Wales attending to share their experiences and highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the business rates system.

Of course, to ensure attendees received the right advice and guidance, we invited representatives from the Valuation Office Agency, the Welsh Government, the British Beer and Pub Association, UK Hospitality Cymru, and the Professional Association of Self Caterers to the meeting too. Their presence allowed business owners to receive direct

Given the huge demand for support, we also arranged a joint advice surgery to give businesses the chance to raise their individual concerns directly with us – and both Samuel and I have raised this issue in the Senedd, urging the Welsh Government to step up and provide meaningful support for our hospitality sector before more businesses are pushed to the brink.

Now I’m pleased to say that some support has now been announced by the Welsh Government, but it’s only a short-term fix. The Welsh Government need to deliver fundamental reform of the whole business rates system, so that hospitality businesses will be able to plan for the future with confidence.

Pembrokeshire’s pubs, cafés and accommodation providers are more than just businesses, they are the heart of our communities - creating jobs, supporting local supply chains, and providing the spaces that bring people together. I believe that they deserve a fair and sustainable system that allows them to thrive. Samuel and I will keep fighting for our local businesses at the Senedd and do what we can to persuade the Welsh Government to listen to businesses and deliver meaningful change.

In the meantime, if your business is struggling with increased business rates, following the latest rate revaluation and you need support, please get in touch by emailing me at paul.davies@senedd. wales

SEND yOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

ANDREW IN CUSTODy

dEaR SiR,

liKE many people across the country, i was glad to hear reports that Prince andrew has been arrested. For too long there has been a perception that those with wealth, power, or connections live by a different set of rules from ordinary citizens. Whether someone is a royal, a politician, or a member of the public, the principle should be the same: no one is above the law.

The allegations surrounding

Prince Andrew have been deeply troubling and have caused understandable anger, particularly among victims of abuse who often struggle to be heard or believed. Seeing the legal system take action sends an important message that accountability matters, regardless of status or title. This is not about sensationalism or attacking the Royal Family. It is about fairness, justice, and public confidence. If the justice system is to command respect, it must be seen to apply equally to everyone. Many people in this country face prosecution for far lesser matters, so it is only right that serious allegations involving powerful individuals are also properly examined through due process.

be a closely fought contest. With eight candidates from across the political spectrum standing, voters will have a wide choice, and it is likely that the result could be decided by relatively small margins.

However, whoever is elected on March 17 will face what can only be described as a very hard act to follow.

The late Cllr Mike Stoddart was not a conventional politician, nor did he behave like one. That was precisely his strength. He built a reputation over many years as a councillor who was prepared to challenge authority, scrutinise decisions in detail, and ask difficult questions when others preferred to remain silent. In local government, where consensus and party discipline can sometimes dull scrutiny, that independence was invaluable.

Mike had an extraordinary grasp of detail. He read reports thoroughly, understood financial documents, and was not afraid to expose inconsistencies or weaknesses in arguments put forward by officers or political leadership. That ability made him both respected and, at times, uncomfortable company for those in power — which is exactly what effective scrutiny should do.

Equally important was his willingness to stand up for local residents. Whether the issue was planning, public spending, governance, or accountability, he approached matters from the perspective of the community rather than political advantage. Residents knew that if Mike took up an issue, he would pursue it doggedly and without fear or favour.

Ultimately, the courts will determine the facts, and Prince Andrew, like anyone else, is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. However, the fact that the law is being allowed to take its course is, in itself, reassuring.

John Taylor

MIKE STODDART WILL BE HARD ACT TO FOLLOW

dEaR SiR,

THE Publication of the candidate list for the forthcoming Milford Haven: Hakin by-election marks the start of what promises to

It is also worth recognising that he operated largely without the machinery of party politics behind him. Independent councillors do not have research teams, policy units, or communications departments. They rely on personal commitment, knowledge, and persistence. Mike demonstrated just how effective a determined independent representative could be.

The next councillor for Hakin does not need to replicate Mike Stoddart — indeed, that would be impossible — but they should recognise the standards he set. The role requires courage, attention to detail, and a willingness to challenge decisions when necessary, even when doing so is unpopular.

This by-election therefore matters not only because of who wins, but because of the type of representation voters choose for the future. The community deserves someone who will work

Pic Ture oF The week! Haverfordwest by Danny Barson

hard, ask questions, and put residents first.

It will be a close fight. But whoever emerges victorious should understand that they inherit not just a council seat, but the legacy of a councillor who set a very high bar.

SEREn JOnES

FUNDING CARDIFF AIRPORT

dEaR SiR,

i REad with interest the ongoing debate about the Welsh government’s financial support for Cardiff Airport, and i feel compelled to express my strong support for continued investment.

For me, this is not simply about balance sheets or passenger numbers. It is about national identity, confidence, and pride. What is a nation without an airport of its own? Airports are more than transport hubs. They are gateways to the world. They signal that a country is open for business, open for tourism, and confident enough to stand on its own two feet.

Wales is a nation with its own parliament, culture, language, and sporting identity. Yet for decades we have often been forced to rely

on infrastructure across the border. Supporting Cardiff Airport is about correcting that imbalance and ensuring Wales has the tools it needs to compete economically.

Critics often focus on the financial cost, but infrastructure investment rarely delivers immediate returns. Roads, railways, ports, and airports all require long-term thinking. The question should not be whether Cardiff Airport is profitable this year or next. The question should be whether Wales benefits from having strategic control over its own international gateway. The answer, in my view, is clearly yes.

There are also practical economic reasons. A functioning national airport supports inward investment, business travel, tourism, and connectivity for Welsh companies. It creates jobs directly and indirectly. It strengthens the perception of Wales as a serious place to do business.

Perhaps most importantly, it sends a message. It says Wales believes in itself. It says Wales is not merely a region of somewhere else, but a country in its own right.

Nations across Europe far smaller than Wales support their own airports because they understand the symbolic and economic importance. We should be no different.

In a world where confidence and visibility matter, Cardiff Airport is not a luxury. It is a statement of who we are

david MORgan

death notices

M ALCOLM H OLDING

P E a CEF ully on Saturday, 8th February, d r Malcolm Holding, Eltham House, Whitland.

Beloved husband of Pearl dearly loved father of Julie and Colin, Michael and Veronica, loving and proud grandfather and great-grandfather, cherished brother and brother-in-law.

Funeral Service on Monday, 23rd February at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11.30a.m.

Family flowers only.

Donations in memory of Malcolm if desired towards Aching Arms Charity or Parkinson’s UK Cymru, received by Ken Davies & Sons, Funeral Directors, Blaenwern, Bro Waldo, Clunderwen. SA66 7NQ Tel: 01437 563319

J AMES P OOLE

T HE d eath occurred peacefully at Hollyland l odge Care Home, Pembroke on Wednesday 28th January 2026 of Mr. James Poole, affectionately known as ‘Jim’, aged 76 years.

Dearly loved Jim will be sadly missed.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday 26th February 2026 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 4:00pm.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales Limited 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

Please kindly make cheques payable to E.C. Thomas & Son.

J OHN R EES D AVIES

E X rugby player for l lanelli, Swansea, n arberth, Carmarthen a thletic and g owerton a ged 80

Died peacefully at Withybush Hospital on 9th February 2026

Much loved husband to Sue, devoted dad to Emma and Jono, adored Bampi to Harry, Molly, Iris,

Bryn and Preece

Funeral at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Thursday, 5th March at 11.30am

John requested casual clothes and preferably no black

Family flowers only, donations, if desired, made payable to either Save The Children or Cancer Research Wales c/o Funeral Directors, Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR or via www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

A NN Sy KES

P E a CEF ully on Sunday, 9th February, at b laenmarlais, n ursing Home, n arberth, a nn, formerly of Fforest Farm, n arberth.

Beloved wife of the late Richard, dear mother of Nigel and Wendy respected mother-in-law of Kirsty and Raz, loving grandmother and greatgrandmother.

Funeral service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Monday, 2nd March, at 12.15p.m.

Family flowers only.

Donations if so desired towards Green Acres Animal Rescue, Pembs, received by Ken Davies & Sons,

Funeral Directors, Blaenwern, Bro Waldo, Clunderwen. SA66 7NQ. Tel: 01437 563319

D OROTH y yOUNG

P E a CEF ully on Monday 2nd February at Withybush Hospital, d orothy of Scleddau, formerly of Trecwn.

Beloved wife of the late John, loving mother and mother-in-law of David, Samantha and Emyr, Alison and Shane, much loved grandmother and a dear sister.

Funeral service on Monday 23rd February at Llanfair Church, Trecwn at 2pm followed by interment at Llanfair Nant-y-Gof Cemetery.

Family flowers only.

Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Asthma & Lung UK (COPD)’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

A NN D OBLE

a nn passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Saturday 7th February 2026 aged 93 years.

b eloved wife to the late Terry and devoted to mother to Trevor and lynn she will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

The Funeral Service will take place on Thursday 5th March 3:15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Donations in memory of Ann for the Alzheimer’s Society can be made via www.alzheimers.org.uk/donate All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

T OMM y J ENKINS

Sudd E nly but peacefully at his home on Monday 9th February, Tommy of Stop & Call, g oodwick.

Beloved husband of Jill, loving father of Dawn and James and a much loved grandfather of Luke.

Funeral service on Friday 27th February at the Chapel of Rest, Feidr Castell, Fishguard at 1pm followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn, Narberth at 2.30pm.

Family flowers only.

Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to ‘Wales Air Ambulance c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel - 01348 873250.

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SHUTTERS & BLINDS

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VEHICLE RECOVERy

WINDOWS

Team GB smash Winter Olympics gold record

gREaT bRiTain may yet fall short of its ambitious target of eight medals at the Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics, but the team have already rewritten the record books with an unprecedented haul of golds.

Before this year, Britain had never won more than a single gold at any Winter Games. In Italy, however, all three of Team GB’s medals so far have been gold – with two secured on the same day.

There is still ground to make up to surpass Britain’s best overall tally of five medals, achieved at the Sochi 2014 and PyeongChang 2018 Games, but the early successes have given the squad a strong platform.

Here’s how the medals have been won so far.

Weston’s record-breaking run

Matt Weston set the tone in Cortina with a commanding victory in the men’s

skeleton, smashing four consecutive track records on his way to Team GB’s first gold of the Games.

He finished 0.88 seconds clear of Germany’s Alex Jungk and Christopher Grotheer, converting his impressive World Cup form into Olympic glory.

“I literally can’t describe it,” Weston said afterwards. “I’ve been lucky enough to win world and European titles, but this blows them all out of the water. It still doesn’t feel real – I keep touching the medal to make sure it is.”

Bankes and Nightingale make history

Snowboard cross specialist Charlotte Bankes and teammate Huw Nightingale delivered a first for Team GB on snow, taking gold in the mixed team event.

The triumph marked a dramatic turnaround after both athletes struggled in their individual races during a difficult week for Britain’s ski and snowboard

squad. Bankes crossed the line first in the final, sealing an historic win.

“Immense relief – for me and for the team,” she said. “That’s what’s amazing. We’ve done it – we’re Olympic champions.”

Skeleton stars strike again

Britain’s skeleton squad underlined their dominance as Weston returned to the track alongside Tabby Stoecker to claim Team GB’s third gold, winning by 0.17 seconds.

The victory made Weston the first British athlete to win two medals at the same Winter Olympics, having overturned a 0.3-second deficit on his final run.

Teammates Marcus Wyatt and Freya Tarbit finished fourth, narrowly missing out on the podium.

“We’re so happy for Matt and Tabby –they’re some of our closest friends,” Tarbit said. “We’re buzzing for them, but it’s obviously gutting to miss out ourselves.”

Don’t panic, the future is bright!

WalES u20s head coach Richard Whiffin believes his current squad has the potential to follow in the footsteps of the celebrated 2008 generation, with several players poised to make the step up to the senior national side in the coming years.

The 2008 Wales U20s squad produced a golden cohort of talent, including Dan Biggar, Jonathan Davies, Leigh Halfpenny, Justin Tipuric and Rhys Webb, all of whom progressed to the senior team and helped drive a period of unprecedented success.

With Steve Tandy in need of fresh faces at senior level, Whiffin is confident that members of this year’s U20s squad can make a similar impact, with a few even in contention for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

“You look at Steffan Emanuels, Deian Gwynne, Caio James, and then the younger players like Carwyn

Leggatt-Jones – there’s a crop here who will develop together,” Whiffin said.

“Hopefully, they’ll infiltrate the national team around the same time. You can see them having long careers in that red jersey.

“Even considering the last few years with Sam Scotts and Ioan Emanuels, there’s a group I’ve been involved with over the past three years that shows high potential. When they graduate to the seniors, I’m confident they’ll prove their quality.

“I think a couple are already performing at senior professional level, and if given the chance, they’ll grab it with both hands.”

One area Wales has struggled with at senior level is size and physicality, particularly in the forwards. While the U20s fell just short against England and France, their pack has been dominant at times, with second-

rows Luke Evans and Osian Williams and hooker Tom Howe impressing.

“Over the last two years, we haven’t been physically beaten,” Whiffin said.

“Yes, we’ve lost games for other reasons, or a scrum has got the upper hand, but in terms of physicality in collisions, we are certainly standing up. With added size in our pack, we now have a real opportunity to dominate in these areas.

“There are big, physical players in Wales. We may not have as many as other nations, but we cherish those we do and invest heavily in their development. We’ve got to work with them to ensure they come through.”

Giant Exeter Chiefs lock Luke Evans has been a standout and is a player Whiffin is particularly excited about.

“He’s been brought into the leadership group this year,” he said.

“He’s matured, as you’d expect, having another year of experience and exposure to a professional environment at Exeter. He’s very focused on detail and challenges his teammates on their roles, but always in a supportive way. I’ve been hugely impressed with how he’s guided Osian Williams.

“He’s been outstanding in the first couple of games, but a lot of that comes down to the security and connection he has with Luke, who not only performs exceptionally himself but also helps those around him.”

Steffan Emanuels

Deian Gwynne

Caio James

Carwyn Leggatt-Jones

Sam Scotts

LUKE EVANS

WalES are staring down another bleak afternoon when Scotland arrive in Cardiff on Saturday — and the fear among supporters is that an unwanted record could yet be added to a miserable run.

Not long ago, this fixture had been circled as a possible turning point. Instead, after heavy beatings by England and France, it now feels like a damage-limitation exercise. Head coach Steve Tandy has had barely six days to pick his squad up and convince them they can halt a slide that has become alarmingly familiar.

The numbers tell the story. Wales have lost 13 successive Six Nations matches since beating Italy in Rome in March 2023 and have been defeated in 23 of their last 25 Tests. Their only wins in that spell came against Japan, while England, Argentina, New

Zealand, South Africa and France have all chalked up 50-point hauls in Cardiff over the past year. A third wooden spoon in a row is suddenly a very real possibility — something few would have believed just a couple of seasons ago.

Confidence is fragile, and so too is the bond with the stands. Only 57,744 supporters were inside the Principality Stadium for the loss to France, the smallest Six Nations crowd in Cardiff in years. Welsh Rugby Union chiefs will be hoping Scotland’s travelling support boosts the numbers, but there is growing concern that home fans are losing patience amid poor results and continuing uncertainty over the professional game in Wales.

Across the dressing room divide, Scotland arrive in far brighter mood. Gregor Townsend’s men lurched

from a dire opening defeat in Italy to a rousing Calcutta Cup victory over England that rekindled belief they could yet challenge for a first championship since 1999. They know another strong result in Cardiff would keep their title hopes alive.

History, too, favours the visitors. Scotland have not lost to Wales since 2022 and last year made it three Six Nations wins on the bounce over their old rivals for the first time since 1991. Wales will certainly not need reminding of the 35-7 hammering at Murrayfield in 2023 — the biggest Scottish win in the 143-year history of the fixture. It was a result that underlined just how far Welsh fortunes have dipped.

Injuries have ruled out Scotland trio Jamie Ritchie, Jack Dempsey and Jamie Dobie, but Townsend still has a settled core and confidence to draw on.

Wales, meanwhile, are still searching for cohesion, belief and a spark that might ignite a turnaround. Too often in recent months they have started brightly only to fade, mistakes piling up and heads dropping as the scoreboard runs away.

Saturday’s clash kicks off at 4.40pm, live on BBC One and S4C, with radio coverage across BBC platforms.

For Wales, it is about far more than points. It is about pride, confidence and giving their long-suffering supporters something to cheer. Another defeat would deepen the gloom and bring fresh scrutiny on players and coaches alike. For Scotland, it is an opportunity to pile on the pressure and keep their dream alive.

One side is fighting to stop the rot. The other is chasing history. Cardiff will provide the answer.

Kilgetty Fight Back to Earn a Point

Merlins bridge 3

Kilgetty 3

Kilgetty, anchored at the foot of the table, showed remarkable resolve to come from behind and secure a draw at the Pembrokeshire Sports Village.

Jordan Gorman put the visitors ahead early on, but Merlins Bridge responded with goals from Billy Martin and Iwan Howells to take a 2-1 lead into the interval.

The Wizards extended their advantage on the hour mark when Sam Nicholas, set up by Nathan Evans, fired in their third goal.

Yet Kilgetty were not finished.

Oliver Rowlands pulled one back, and with just 12 minutes remaining, Gorman struck again to level the scores, earning his side a deserved share of the spoils.

Wilkes’ Double Secures

Comfortable Swifts Win

Clarbeston Road 1

Monkton Swifts 4

Monkton Swifts reinforced their second-place league position with a convincing victory at Clarbeston Road.

Jimmy Wilkes struck twice within the opening 15 minutes, before

Liam Butland added a third just before half-time, giving the Swifts a commanding 3-0 lead.

For Clarbeston Road, the game provided a memorable occasion as 16-year-old Ethan Ellis made his senior debut alongside his father, Matthew.

The second half was tighter, but Swifts captain Ben Steele extended the lead in the 89th minute. A minute later, substitute Travis Jones, on for Ben John, scored Clarbeston Road’s only goal of the match.

Lewis Nets Crucial Late Winner for Narberth Carew 0 narberth 1

Narberth secured a vital three points in their bid to avoid relegation, edging past Carew with a narrow victory.

Carew, managed by Jack Christopher, suffered their first defeat in five matches. The decisive moment came late when substitute Lewis Bansal curled a free kick from the edge of the area into the net.

Narberth remain precariously close to the relegation zone, sitting just three points above safety, while second-from-bottom Fishguard Sports have four games in hand.

Fishguard Sports Claim

Key Win at Pennar

Pennar Robins 2

Fishguard Sports 4

Relegation-threatened Fishguard Sports produced an important away win at Bush Camp against Pennar Robins.

Adam Lawrence’s long throw led to an early 9th-minute goal, putting the visitors ahead. Pennar responded through Jack Jones, who capitalised on slick buildup play from Edmundson and Grimwood to level before taking the lead with a second strike at the back post from a Nick Willis cross, leaving them 2-1 up at half-time.

The second half swung in Fishguard’s favour. An own goal from Bobby Jones in the opening minute of the half restored parity, and two minutes later Josh Bland’s 22-yard strike turned the match on its head. Lawrence netted again from a long throw to seal the victory at 4-2, despite Pennar pressing late.

The game saw several cautions, including the Sports’ manager Phil Jones and centre-half Couzens, along with Pennar’s Nick Willis, who had to be withdrawn after a late challenge.

Tributes paid to Pembrokeshire rugby coach after sudden death

TEnby united RFC has paid tribute to their athletic Xv head coach, Tim Poole, following his sudden death.

The club announced the heartbreaking news on social media, describing the 65-year-old as a “true rugby man” whose influence was felt both on and off the field.

A long-time supporter and member of Tenby United, Poole took on the role of Athletic XV head coach last summer, leading the team as they entered the league at the start of the season.

Club officials said he was “genuinely proud and thrilled” to be part of the project and had a deep passion for promoting rugby within the local community.

In their tribute, Tenby United highlighted Poole’s approachable nature, which made him “likeable and well respected” not only in coaching but also through his work

delivering courses across Welsh rugby. He played a significant role in education and development, running Level 1 coaching qualifications alongside safeguarding and first-aid

courses. It is believed he supported more than 1,000 individuals across the Welsh rugby community during his career.

The club said it had been

overwhelmed by messages of condolence, reflecting the number of lives he touched. “Tim was a true rugby man, always to be seen with a smile on his face, and he had time for everyone,” the statement read. “One of life’s genuinely good guys –he will be dearly missed.”

Jonathan Evans, Tenby United’s head of rugby, described Poole as a “people person” who fully embraced the club’s ethos and made a significant contribution to player development. “My phone hasn’t stopped,” Evans said. “He had a huge network and did so much to help youth players progress into senior rugby.”

As a mark of respect, Tenby United’s senior matches against Burry Port and St Davids this weekend have been postponed. The club also extended its condolences to Poole’s family, sending love to Julie, Bethany, and Joe.

manderwood Pembrokeshire league

Letterston

The Pembrokeshire Herald 20/02/2026

More people come forward after Computer Solutions Wales investigation

TRibunal Ruling OvER unPaid WagES

HOliday HOME Wi-Fi diSPuTE

diSPuTE OvER PayMEnT

OngOing invESTigaTiOn

MAN charged with GBH with intent following incident involving ‘Pembrokeshire Patriot’

Defendant remanded in custody as case linked to police raids on Friday

Telecom vandal admits causing £33,000 damage to Pembroke Dock network

Baby assault allegations: Couple deny charges over eight-week-old infant

Court Reporter

Anger as Withybush loses emergency surgery

WHaT THE dECiSiOn MEanS

OTHER SERviCE CHangES

WidER COnCERnS

Withybush: From full district hospital to “salami-sliced” services

Changes will bring ‘resilience and sustainability’

MOniTORing OuTCOMES

Opinion: Pembrokeshire deserves better than health services endlessly in decline

Stroke patients to be transferred to Carmarthen under new health plan

Reform’s Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire chairman resigns

Kurtz secures in-person assessment for banking hub

Teen girl sentenced after assaulting police officer and shop theft

Neyland stalker admits harassment of Milford Haven woman

Court Reporter

Repeat drug-driver banned for three years after Pembroke stop

Driver banned after refusing breath test despite admitting drinking

Woman, 79, made 141 unnecessary 999 calls putting lives at risk, court hears

Teen given community order after assaulting police officer at hospital

Harbour collision sailor admits navigating at dangerous speed

Ex-councillor Brian Rothero disqualified for three years after code breaches upheld

TRibunal FindingS

PERCEPTiOn OF inFluEnCE

WidER COnTEXT

ROTHERO diSPuTES FindingS

lOng-Running TEnSiOnS

Police appeal after man injured in St Davids incident

Teenage protester jailed after motorway and railway disruption offences

Man who threw corrosive liquid at guest and fled abroad jailed

Court Reporter

PREviOuS COnviCTiOn

Independent group threatens to oppose council tax plans over education cuts

Press regulator backs Herald reporting following Ajay Owen complaint

Man denies serious child sex charges

Break-in at home of deceased woman leads to sentence for Dock man

Man who attacked woman outside Milford Haven bar ‘shows no remorse whatsoever’

Milford Haven Hakin by-election candidates confirmed

Independent Group reshuffle as council tax budget battle looms

Sexual assault allegation to be tried

Drink drive allegation denied

Development above CKs Foodstores, Milford Haven, approved

Pembrokeshire gypsy and traveller pitch increases approved

Driver admits killing dog walker whose body was found in churchyard

Svitzer crews at Milford Haven vote for industrial action in pay dispute

Search begins for five bodies possibly buried beneath County Hall car park

Officer to decide Milford Haven Chinese restaurant housing

MoD plans for Pembrokeshire site submitted to council

Review launched into winter gritting for north-east Pembrokeshire roads

Sandy Bear charity relocating headquarters as support expands across Wales

New project launched to preserve Pembrokeshire’s hidden place names

Tenby golf captain raises more than £8,000 for hospice charity

Children living with parental addiction need more support, says NSPCC

Tenby Market Hall consultation event to shape future plans

The alternative view By Mike Dello

Community pool launches funding appeal to secure future

Anyone can administer EpiPens in emergencies, councillor clarifies

Government refusal to compensate 1950s-born women sparks legal row

Concert at St Davids Cathedral to support hospice care in Pembrokeshire

Long service awards for Tenby surf lifesavers

Smiles all round for Pancake Day celebrations in Tenby

Bosherston bistro alcohol license antisocial behaviour fears

Free children’s workshops to bring fantasy sea creatures to life in Milford Haven

County show welcomes 1,200 pupils for ‘food story’ event

gaming

Forty-eight hours to regain your dignity online

Blodwen Rocks the Boat sets sail for Torch Theatre

HOROSCOPES

BADGER has decided to be positive this week.

opinion: wales are rebuilding and rebuilds are painful

Fancy feathers don’t stop the law’s net