THE PEMBROKESHIRE HERALD 22/05/2026

Milford Haven mourns loss of ‘legend’ Muci Power

TRIBUTES have flooded in from across Milford Haven following the death of Alan Edward Thomas “Muci” Power, remembered as a “true legend” and one of the town’s best-known characters.

Mr Power, affectionately known as Muci, passed away suddenly but peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Sunday, May 10, aged 79.

Best known to many as the former landlord of the Lord Kitchener public house in Milford Haven — affectionately known as “The Kitch” — Muci became a familiar and much-loved figure in the town, known for his humour, friendship and larger-than-life personality.

The devoted husband of Meryl, father, grandfather and greatgrandfather leaves behind a family at the centre of Milford life, while countless friends have spoken of the memories they shared with him over many years.

The Royal British Legion paid tribute, saying: “Rest in peace, Muci. You will be dearly missed by us all here at the Royal British Legion. Thank you for the memories and your presence in our community. Our thoughts and

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prayers are with your loved ones during this difficult time.”

Hundreds of tributes have also been posted online, with many describing Muci as a “Milford legend” whose passing marks the end of an era.

Friends remembered good times at The Kitch, where Muci was at the heart of local life for many years.

Ryan Hackett wrote: “Will have a T.A.C. for you mate on Tuesday. Will miss you Matey. Another Milford legend gone.”

Simon Jenkins said: “Muci was one in a million, a true legend. Milford has lost a true gent.”

Many spoke of his warmth and generosity, with Nigel Hackett thanking him for “being there when I needed someone.”

Muci was the devoted husband of Meryl, dearly loved father and father-inlaw of Karl and Claire, and Hayley and Roy, proud grandfather of Morgan, Sam, Caitlin and Jay, and adored great-grandfather of Amalie.

His funeral service will take

Man found guilty of having knives at Withybush hospital

A TENBY man has been found guilty of possessing knives at Withybush General Hospital.

Sion Williams, of The Croft, Tenby, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (May 18). He had denied two charges of possessing a bladed or sharply pointed article in a public place.

The court heard the offences happened at Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest, on Saturday

(Dec 13), when Williams had a hunting knife and a lock knife with him without good reason or lawful authority.

Williams had entered not guilty pleas in January, but was found guilty following Monday’s hearing.

He was granted unconditional bail and will return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for sentence on Monday, June 8.

Magistrates ordered him to attend the next hearing.

place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Tuesday, May 26, at 11:30am.

For those wishing to pay their respects, the hearse will leave the Lord Kitchener, Charles Street,

Milford Haven, at 10:40am. Immediate family flowers only. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel: 01646 693180.

Cocaine courier caught with £15,000 haul

A PEMBROKESHIRE man caught transporting more than £15,000 of high-purity cocaine through Pembroke Dock town centre has been jailed for three years.

Police received intelligence on April 4 that a vehicle was expected to be bringing drugs into Pembrokeshire.

Just after 3:30pm, officers spotted the vehicle travelling west on the A477. It was later stopped in Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock, where Zamurd Hussain, aged 43, was found to be the sole occupant.

Inside the vehicle, officers discovered a clear plastic bag containing 123 grams of cocaine.

Sian Cutter KC, prosecuting, told Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday that Hussain had travelled to Cardiff earlier that morning and stayed for just one hour before returning west.

“He told the officers he had gone to collect the drugs in order to make some money,” she said.

The court heard Hussain was paid £210.15 to act as a courier, transporting the cocaine from a Cardiff dealer to Pembroke Dock.

Ms Cutter said the drugs, which had a street value of just over £15,000, were not for Hussain’s personal use and that his role was to move them on behalf of others.

When officers asked to see his mobile phone, Hussain shouted at a member of the public to take it from him. When police eventually seized the phone, he refused to provide the PIN.

Ms Cutter said Hussain had 17 previous convictions, including two drug-related offences for possession with intent to supply.

Hussain appeared before the court by video link from HMP Swansea, where he has been held on remand.

Defending, Hannah George KC said Hussain had suffered from a serious drug addiction for many years.

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“He started smoking cannabis as a teenager and has had substance abuse issues for a considerable time,” she said.

“His use of cocaine worsened in 2020, which resulted in his previous conviction for possession with intent to supply.

“But since he has been on remand, he has used his time productively by completing numerous courses in relation to cannabis and drug misuse.”

Ms George said Hussain was eager to return to employment after serving his prison sentence and hoped to find

work in the construction industry.

“He is supported by family members who will do all they can to help him remain on the right path once he is released,” she added.

Sentencing Hussain to three years in custody, Judge Huw Rees said: “It is startlingly obvious that drugs have been your downfall.”

The court heard that Hussain was a “drug addict” also made a forfeiture and destruction order for the cocaine found in Hussain’s vehicle and for his mobile phone.

However, he allowed Hussain to retrieve personal, non-contentious items from the phone, including photographs of his family.

Tree surgeon sentenced for failing to provide breath test

A COURT has heard how a selfemployed tree surgeon deliberately refused to provide a breathalyser test despite giving a positive roadside reading that was over three times the legal drink-drive limit.

Williams Badham, 24, was stopped by officers as he drove a poorly illuminated Ford Transit van through Haverfordwest at around 11pm on April 7.

“Police indicated for the vehicle to stop so that they could give him advice about the rear lights,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“And when they spoke to him, they realised he was under the influence of drink.”

A roadside breath test proved positive, and showed a high reading of 109 mcg, the legal limit being 35.

Badham was subsequently arrested and taken to the police station, however he refused to provide officers with further specimens of breath.

Badham, who is employed as a tree surgeon operating from his home in Rylands Lane, Kilgetty, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis and chose to represent himself before the magistrates.

“Over the years I’ve struggled with substance and alcohol abuse but this really has been a wake-up,” he told the Bench.

“I’m now focused on changing my ways.”

Badham was sentenced to a 12-month community order during which he must complete a six-month drug rehabilitation requirement, ten additional rehabilitation activity requirement days and a 90-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement. He was disqualified from driving for 17 months. The defendant must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs.

NHS waiting lists falling — but west Wales faces fresh healthcare uncertainty

WAITING times across NHS Wales are continuing to improve, according to the latest national figures — but patients in west Wales may question whether those improvements are being felt on the ground as concerns continue over changing local services, pharmacy provision and healthcare access.

New figures released by the Welsh Government show there were just under 666,700 referral-to-treatment patient pathways waiting to start treatment in March — down by around 21,300 compared with February and the lowest level recorded since August 2021.

It marks the tenth consecutive month that waiting lists have fallen, while the proportion of pathways waiting less than 26 weeks rose to 65.9 per cent — the highest figure since May 2020.

The average waiting time for treatment also dropped to 15.5 weeks, the lowest level since April 2020.

However, despite the improving national picture, NHS leaders have warned that Wales remains under significant pressure and that progress must not mask wider challenges facing the health service.

Responding to the figures, the Welsh NHS Confederation said scheduled care was “going in the right direction” but cautioned that emergency pressures, social care pressures and financial constraints remain major concerns.

The organisation’s director, Darren Hughes, said NHS leaders were ready to work with the new Welsh Government as part of its first 100 days in office, but stressed that reforms would require difficult decisions and honest conversations with the public.

He said: “While it’s not a perfect picture across the board, with high demand on urgent and emergency care, scheduled care waits continue to go in the right direction.

“Now is the time to build on this progress and make further inroads into the backlog of care that has built up in recent years.”

But for many people in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, improving national statistics may feel at odds with the reality of healthcare closer to home.

Recent changes affecting community pharmacy provision, alongside continuing concerns over access to services, travel distances and healthcare reorganisation within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area, have left some residents questioning whether NHS recovery is being experienced

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equally across Wales.

Community pharmacy provision has become an increasing concern locally following recent changes affecting some chemist services, raising fears over access to medication and frontline healthcare support — particularly in rural areas where alternatives may involve lengthy travel.

At the same time, debates around the future location of services, staffing shortages and the long-term sustainability of care in west Wales continue to generate concern among patients and campaigners.

For many residents, the NHS debate is no longer only about waiting times — but whether services remain accessible in the first place.

The figures also require some caution. NHS waiting-list totals are measured in “patient pathways” rather than individual patients, meaning one person can appear on the list more than once if waiting for multiple treatments or appointments.

The Welsh NHS Confederation warned that any future improvements would need a “whole-system approach”, involving primary care, community healthcare and social care, alongside action to reduce demand before patients require hospital treatment.

Mr Hughes added that NHS organisations also face tightening budgets and renewed inflationary pressures linked to global events.

He warned: “NHS leaders will need clarity from political leaders on a focused set of priorities and the backing to make

the difficult decisions required to reform services, being honest with the public around timelines and expectations.”

Professor Jon Barry, Director in Wales at the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England), said: “The

new Welsh Government inherits a significant challenge, and these figures reflect the reality across Wales – long waits, repeated delays, and too many people left in pain.

“There were commitments during the election campaign to develop a clear plan for expanding elective capacity, including early work to establish new surgical hubs across Wales. The priority now is to start delivering on those plans without delay.

“More surgical hubs will help bring down long waits and ensure fewer patients are left dealing with uncertainty and disruption to their daily lives while they wait for treatment.”

The Herald has approached Hywel Dda University Health Board for comment on how improving national waiting-time figures compare with the experience of patients in west Wales, including concerns around pharmacy provision, service changes and access to local care.

The Welsh Government has also been asked what the new administration’s healthcare priorities will

Pembrokeshire councillors suffering social media abuse

THE DUTY of care for Pembrokeshire councillors and would-be if they are subject to “the cesspit of social media” online abuse needs to be more robust, members heard.

The issue was raised when members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s May full council discussed an action plan aimed at supporting greater diversity within the council.

Speaking at the meeting, recentlyelected Fishguard North councillor Billy Shaw raised the issue of social media and councillors receiving abuse, saying: “One area that puts people off is social and the amount of abuse on it.

“I’ve been subject to that recently, with a number of pictures of me sitting having a coffee in Fishguard.

“As soon as you put yourself forward social media becomes a cesspit because your political view do not match someone who’s quite vocal on social media.

“I was wondering if there’s there any way of putting protections for anyone who wants to put their name forward [to be a councillor]?

“I do know there’s a number of councillors sitting here who’ve been subject to the cesspit that is social media of late.”

Cllr Alistair Cameron shared Cllr Shaw’s concerns, saying: “I agree with Cllr Shaw, social media is a real issue; as a council we’ve got a duty to support people standing for council.”

Cllr Neil Prior said the duty of care for councillors “feels quite woolly,” adding: “You are absolutely in the front line, you can be in any situation in your community and be subject to a lot of difficult situations; I don’t think the council has a particularly strong duty of care for councillors.”

Another who raised the issue, was

Haverfordwest’s Cllr Tom Tudor, who said it had been brought to his attention recently that he had been attacked on social media by an unnamed sitting member of the county council.

Cllr Shaw’s highlighting of abuse suffered by councillors followed “a petty and vindictive attempt” to land him in trouble with the Ombudsman, the abuse referenced in the meeting including claims of posts on social media and verbal abuse.

Last month, it was stated no Ombudsman investigation was to take place into Cllr Shaw following a “waste of taxpayers’ money” complaint of a claimed breach of the code of conduct.

William Cuthbert Linton Shaw, commonly known as Billy Shaw, won the Fishguard North-East ward seat for Plaid Cymru – The Party of Wales in February following a byelection called after the death of Cllr Jordan Ryan last November.

The complaint, a claimed breach of the Code of Conduct, was made following his first, March, full council

meeting when he stood for a picture outside County Hall with campaign group Solidarity with Palestine, who were there for an agenda item on ‘Disinvestment in Companies profiting from Genocide’.

Cllr Shaw has previously said there were two lessons following the unsuccessful complaint: “It was a waste of the Ombudsman’s time, as it was a petty and vindictive attempt by this individual who has a long history of trolling anyone especially those in public office with a left-wing viewpoint.”

Police probe ball bearing damage in Haverfordwest

POLICE are investigating reports of criminal damage in Haverfordwest after suspected metal ball bearings were used to damage a vehicle and a property.

Dyfed-Powys Police said damage was caused to the wing mirror of a blue Range Rover Evoque on Glenfields Road sometime between 11:10am and 11:20am on Sunday, May 10.

Officers believe metal ball bearings may have been used.

A second incident was reported at around 2:30pm on Tuesday, May 12, when the window of a property on Glenfields Road was allegedly struck by a suspected metal ball bearing.

Police said local officers are continuing to speak with residents after receiving a number of calls about ball bearings being found in the Glenfields Road and Old Hakin Road areas.

Anyone who witnessed anything, or who has information that could help the investigation, is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police. uk, or by calling 101.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppersuk.org.

Quote reference: 26*375605.

Paul Davies meets Openreach Cymru to discuss Full Fibre rollout

CEREDIGION PENFRO Senedd

Member Paul Davies has met with Openreach Cymru at the Senedd to discuss progress on the rollout of full fibre broadband across west Wales, raising concerns about connectivity in parts of west Wales.

Pembrokeshire currently has the lowest level of full fibre coverage in Wales at just 59%, with neighbouring Ceredigion the second lowest at 67%.

Mr Davies stressed that while progress is being made, more needs to be done to close the gap and ensure rural communities are not left behind.

Mr Davies said, “Expanding full fibre broadband is essential to supporting economic growth, public services and digital inclusion across Wales and we all require access to reliable, high-

speed broadband in our lives.

“Whilst the full fibre network is now available to more than 80% of premises across Wales, the coverage in areas like Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion shows there’s still plenty of work to be done. We need to see a stronger focus on these areas so that residents and businesses can benefit from the same opportunities as those in betterconnected parts of Wales.”

“I will continue to work with Openreach Cymru to ensure that broadband rollout is delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible. Improving digital infrastructure is vital for economic growth and I want to ensure that communities in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion are not left behind.”

Youngest mayor in century takes office in Haverfordwest

HAVERFORDWEST has welcomed a new mayor after Councillor Randell Izaiah ThomasTurner officially took office, marking several historic firsts for the county town.

Councillor Thomas-Turner said he was “incredibly honoured” to become Mayor of Haverfordwest, describing the moment as bigger than one individual and a sign of the town’s changing future.

He is believed to be the youngest Mayor of Haverfordwest in the twentyfirst century, the first millennial to hold the role, and the first mayor from a diverse background in the town’s history.

The mayoral ceremony was attended by more than 100 pupils from Fenton Primary School and Prendergast School, who performed during the event.

Speaking after the ceremony, Cllr Thomas-Turner said: “This moment is far bigger than one individual. It is a reflection of how far our community has come and the future we are building together — a future based on unity, opportunity, compassion and community spirit.”

He thanked residents, supporters and local organisations involved

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in the event, including catering company The Platter Box Co, and announced that his chosen charity for the year will be Snap Specialist Play.

A raffle held during the day raised £387 for the charity.

Giving back

Following the mayor-making ceremony and luncheon, the new mayor, Sheriff of Haverfordwest Cllr Dani Thomas-Turner, Deputy Mayor Adam Benson-Davies, Mayor’s Crier Gareth Jones and Town Clerk Vanessa Lewis-Camacho visited Withybush Hospital to donate leftover food from the event to NHS staff.

Cllr Thomas-Turner said the gesture was intended as a small thank-you to healthcare workers for their dedication to the people of Pembrokeshire.

“Our NHS staff are heroes within our community, and it was important to me that today’s celebrations also gave something back,” he said.

The new mayor pledged to serve residents with “dedication, humility and pride” during his year in office.

Police and GoSafe to target speeding in Newport and Dinas

RESIDENTS’ concerns over speeding and anti-social driving have prompted planned enforcement action in the Newport and Dinas areas.

Dyfed-Powys Police Roads Policing Unit and the GoSafe enforcement van are expected to carry out speed checks over the coming month following complaints raised with county councillor Huw Murphy, Newport Town Council and Dinas Community Council. The operation is aimed at deterring motorists from excessive speed and anti-social driving, as well as taking enforcement action where offences are detected.

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Drivers caught exceeding the speed limit could face sanctions ranging from a warning to a court summons, depending on the seriousness of the offence. More serious breaches of road traffic law can result in substantial fines and possible disqualification.

Police have not released specific dates or locations for the enforcement activity.

Cllr Murphy told The Herald that motorists who drive within the law have nothing to fear.

Most police vehicles are now fitted with Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology, increasing the likelihood of detecting vehicles being driven without valid insurance, MOT or vehicle excise licence.

Speeding remains one of the “Fatal Five” factors linked to serious injury and fatal collisions on UK roads. The others are careless driving, drink or drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt, and using a mobile phone while driving.

Cllr Murphy said: “Residents have

raised concerns regarding excess speed and anti-social driving, and I am grateful to Dyfed-Powys Police and GoSafe for responding to these concerns.

“The aim of this enforcement activity is to improve road safety for everyone and to encourage motorists to drive responsibly and within the speed limits.

“If they do not, and are caught, then they will have to face the consequences.”

Stolen vehicle investigation after late-night crash in Waterston

A VEHICLE involved in a latenight single-vehicle crash in Waterston, Milford Haven, is believed to have been stolen, police have confirmed.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received a report of the collision at around 11:55pm on Sunday (May 17).

The vehicle was recovered at

approximately 1:15am on Monday (May 18), but nobody was found at the scene.

Following enquiries, police established that the vehicle had reportedly been stolen at some point during Sunday evening.

Officers said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Pembrokeshire woman sentenced for double probation breach

A PEMBROKESHIRE woman has been sentenced for failing to turn up for her community order requirements just four days after receiving her initial court sentence.

Natalie John, 28, was sentenced to a community order on April 2 requiring her to carry out rehabilitation activity days and unpaid work. But her failure to attend two induction appointments on April 7 and April 27 this week resulted in her re-appearance before Haverfordwest magistrates.

“Llanelli magistrates made the order on April 2, which included rehabilitation activity requirement days and unpaid work,” probation officer Julie Norman told the Haverfordwest Bench.

“But two appointments have since been missed by the defendant.”

Ms Norman went on to say that

since her initial breaches, John’s attendance has significantly improved.

“Hopefully she’ll go on to complete the order without any further issues,” she concluded.

John, of Central Court, Milford Haven pleaded guilty to failing to comply with the community order requirements and was represented in court by Alaw Harries. Ms Harries said the first breach took place as a result of John’s vehicle breaking down as she attempted to travel to her probation appointment.

“She had no alternative means of getting there,” said Alaw Harries.

“On the second occasion, she was suffering from sickness and diarrhoea, although she didn’t provide any medical evidence to back this up.

“But moving forward, she’s willing to comply with the order.”

After considering her mitigation, magistrates fined John £40 and ordered her to pay £60 costs to the probation service ,

New council leader confirms Cabinet

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL’S new Leader, Cllr Tessa Hodgson, has confirmed her Cabinet.

Cllr Hodgson, the first woman to lead the authority, was elected at the council’s Annual General Meeting on Friday (May 15).

Cllr Jon Harvey, who did not seek reelection as Leader, returns to Cabinet with responsibility for finance.

Cllr Paul Miller remains Deputy Leader and takes on the Education and Regeneration portfolio.

Education had previously been held by Cllr Guy Woodham, who has decided to step down from Cabinet.

New communities role

Cllrs Aaron Carey, who represents Pembroke Monkton and St Mary South, and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, member for Tenby South, have joined the Cabinet.

They will share responsibility for a newly-created Communities portfolio.

Cllr Hodgson said: “Our new Cabinet will build on the experience of the previous executive, with the new additions of Cllr Skyrme-Blackhall and Cllr Carey, two experienced councillors who will bring new energy and ideas in their newly-formed portfolio area of Communities.

“Around the Cabinet table I am confident we have the experience and knowledge to get straight back to work for the people of Pembrokeshire.

“I also want to take this opportunity to put on record my thanks and appreciation to Cllr Woodham for all his work as the Cabinet Member for

Education and Welsh Language.”

Full Cabinet

The full Cabinet and portfolios are:

Cllr Tessa Hodgson – Leader of Council

Cllr Paul Miller – Deputy Leader, Education and Regeneration

Cllr Jon Harvey – Finance

Cllr Marc Tierney – Young People and Well-being of Future Generations

Cllr Rhys Sinnett – Residents’ Services

Cllr Michelle Bateman – Housing

Cllr Jacob Williams – Planning and Highways

Cllr Alistair Cameron – Adult Social Care, Safeguarding and the Welsh Language

Cllr Aaron Carey – Communities, job share with Cllr Skyrme-Blackhall

Cllr Sam Skyrme-Blackhall –Communities, job share with Cllr Carey Cabinet will meet for the first time on Wednesday (May 27).

Pharmacy services review launched across west Wales

PEOPLE across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion are being asked to give their views on the future of community pharmacy services.

Hywel Dda University Health Board has launched a consultation on its updated draft Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment, which looks at current pharmacy provision, any gaps in services, and what may be needed in future.

Health boards in Wales have been required since October 2021 to publish a Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment. The document must be updated every five years and is used to help guide decisions about how pharmacy services are developed and improved.

The latest draft assessment has been prepared following engagement with community pharmacy contractors and members of the public earlier this year.

The health board is now inviting further feedback before a final version is published later in 2026.

The survey opened on Monday (May 18) and will close on Friday, July 17.

Residents can take part online, pick up a paper copy from their local pharmacy, or request a copy by emailing communitypharmacy.hdd@ wales.nhs.uk or calling 0300 303 8322 and selecting option five.

Rhian Bond, Assistant Director of Primary Care for Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “This is an important opportunity for people to share their experiences of community pharmacy services and tell us how they could be improved.

“Community pharmacies play a vital role in supporting people’s health and wellbeing. They are often the first point of contact for advice, treatment and support.

“By providing feedback you can help us ensure services are accessible, effective and meet the needs of communities now and in the future.”

The final Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment will be published later

this year on the health board’s website, along with a summary of the feedback received.

New offshore wind rules could boost energy ambitions

PEMBROKESHIRE could be among the biggest winners from new UK Government reforms aimed at accelerating offshore wind development, with Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock expected to play a key role in the emerging clean energy economy.

New environmental legislation affecting offshore wind farms came into force on Thursday (May 21), with industry leaders claiming the changes could help deliver both more renewable energy and better outcomes for nature.

The reforms, introduced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), change how environmental compensation for offshore

wind projects can be approached, allowing developers to take what ministers describe as a broader and more strategic approach to protecting marine habitats.

Supporters say the changes could help remove delays that have slowed offshore wind developments while maintaining environmental protections.

The move is particularly significant for Pembrokeshire, where hopes are high that the fast-growing floating offshore wind sector in the Celtic Sea will bring major investment, jobs and regeneration to the Milford Haven Waterway.

For several years, Pembrokeshire has been positioning itself as a key player in the UK’s clean energy transition, with

the Port

promoting ambitious plans around floating offshore wind, hydrogen production and marine renewables.

Pembroke Dock Marine, supported by millions of pounds of investment, has already been developed as a specialist base for marine energy projects, while the wider Celtic Freeport vision has focused heavily on green industries linked to the Haven.

Industry figures believe the new rules could help speed up planning and consent processes for major offshore wind developments, potentially unlocking investment opportunities for west Wales.

Commenting on the reforms, Offshore Wind Industry Council environment lead

Benj Sykes, who is also UK Country Manager for renewable energy company Ørsted, insisted the changes were not about weakening environmental standards.

He said: “By enabling a broader and more strategic range of options, the UK is taking a more outcomes-focused approach to marine compensation.

“Crucially, this is not about lowering environmental standards. It is about implementing a more effective, strategic approach that will deliver better outcomes for nature as we deliver the UK’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions.”

However, the reforms are likely to attract scrutiny in Pembrokeshire, where environmental protections are often a sensitive issue.

The county is home to internationally important marine habitats and wildlife, including seabird populations around Skomer Island, marine conservation zones, and the protected waters of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Fishing groups and environmental campaigners have previously raised concerns about the impact of large offshore energy developments on marine ecosystems and local industries.

At the same time, supporters argue offshore wind represents one of the biggest economic opportunities Pembrokeshire has seen in decades.

With Milford Haven already handling around a fifth of the UK’s energy needs through its existing energy infrastructure, many local leaders believe the county is well placed to become a centre for the next generation of low-carbon energy production.

Pembroke woman accused of scrap fraud to appear in court

A PEMBROKE woman is due to appear before magistrates charged with fraud after allegedly selling a vehicle for scrap in Haverfordwest.

Natalie Morris, aged 42, of Corston Lodge, Axton Hill, is accused of fraud by false representation under the Fraud Act 2006.

The allegation relates to an incident said to have taken place in Haverfordwest on Tuesday (Aug 9), 2022, in which Morris allegedly dishonestly made a false representation by selling a silver Toyota Corolla, registration CU52 XBR, for scrap.

The court heard the alleged offence was carried out with the intention of making a financial gain of £313.

The case was listed before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Monday (May 18), where a previously issued warrant was withdrawn.

No plea was entered and the matter was adjourned.

Morris is now due to appear before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court at 10:00am on Tuesday (May 26) for a plea hearing, where she will be asked to enter a guilty or not guilty plea.

Welsh Labour unveils new Senedd spokesperson team

WELSH Labour’s interim leader

Ken Skates MS has unveiled the party’s new Senedd spokesperson team following the recent Welsh Parliament election.

Mr Skates said the group would focus on holding the Welsh Government to account and pushing for “practical results” for people across Wales.

The Clwyd South MS will serve as interim leader of Welsh Labour and spokesperson for Health, Care and National Security.

Jayne Bryant MS has been named spokesperson for Housing, Communities, Public and Preventative Health, while Mike Hedges MS will cover Culture, Sport, Local Government and Legislation.

Vikki Howells MS has been appointed Chief Whip and spokesperson for Environment, Farming, Energy and Transport. Her brief will also include planning.

Lynne Neagle MS will serve as Business Manager and spokesperson for Children, Education and Lifelong Learning.

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Shav Taj MS has been named spokesperson for Employment, Equalities and Economic Transformation, including social partnership.

Huw Thomas MS will cover Finance, Democracy, Citizenship

and the Welsh Language, with Regional and City Deals also falling within his portfolio.

Welsh Labour said Sarah Murphy MS’s portfolio will be announced when she returns from maternity leave.

A Welsh Labour spokesperson said the group would draw on “extensive experience with fresh energy and ideas” as it begins its work in the new Senedd term.

Garden tools stolen in Haven Road burglaries

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after garden tools were stolen from outbuildings in Haverfordwest.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers are investigating two burglaries at separate addresses in the Haven Road area, following reports made over the last week.

The first burglary is believed to have happened on Monday, May 4, when gardening tools worth around £40 and an electric renovator valued at about £70 were taken.

A second burglary is believed to

have taken place sometime between Friday, May 8 and Sunday, May 10.

A Bosch hedge trimmer worth around £190 was stolen.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious in Haven Road, or who has CCTV or Ring doorbell footage which may assist the investigation, is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police. Police can be contacted online, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police. uk, by direct message on social media, or by calling 101.

Quote reference: DP-20260510142.

New pilot boat Llanion dedicated at emotional Milford Haven ceremony

MILFORD HAVEN’S new state-ofthe-art pilot vessel Llanion has been formally named and dedicated during a ceremony at Mackerel Quay.

The event marked a major milestone for the Port of Milford Haven, which says the vessel reinforces its commitment to safe, efficient and resilient marine operations on the Waterway.

The ceremony brought together civic dignitaries, port representatives, local pupils and members of the maritime community.

Guests included Chaplain Revd Jonathan Brewer, Chaplain Revd Rufus Noy, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed Miss Sara Edwards, Andrew Phillips, High Sheriff of Dyfed, and representatives from the Port’s marine team.

Darcey Trueman, Head Prefect at Milford Haven School, formally named the vessel during the ceremony.

She declared: “I name this pilot launch Llanion. May God bless her and all who sail in her.”

Miss Sara Edwards carried out the bottle ceremony, while the dedication and blessing were led by Revd Jonathan Brewer and Revd Rufus Noy.

The service included performances by Milford Haven School Choir, readings from the Book of Psalms, Psalm 23: The Pilots Version, the Lord’s Prayer, and the British and Welsh national anthems.

STEP-CHANGE IN CAPABILITY

Mike Ryan, Harbourmaster at the Port of Milford Haven, said Llanion represented a major investment in pilotage resilience and operational safety.

He said: “This vessel represents a significant investment in both our absolute commitments to pilotage service resilience

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and operational safety.

“She sits at the heart of modern pilot boat evolution — combining speed, manoeuvrability and the latest-generation Camarc hull design.

“For our terminal customers, this means confidence that we can continue to respond quickly to their requirements and deliver a safe, efficient and dependable year-round pilotage service.

“She represents the standards we set for ourselves, our commitment to safety, to professionalism, and to doing the job properly, every single time.

“I look forward to seeing Llanion in action and to the role she will play in supporting the safe movement of vessels on the Milford Haven Waterway for many years to come.”

ENERGY PORT ROLE

Rebecca Ahern, Head of Commercial and Legal at Dragon LNG and Dragon Energy, one of the Port’s key terminal customers, said the investment strengthened confidence in Milford Haven’s marine operations.

She said: “The Milford Haven Waterway plays a critical role in the UK’s energy system, and safe, dependable marine operations are fundamental to that role.

“This latest investment by the Port further strengthens operational reliability for all terminal users, reinforcing confidence in safe and efficient yearround vessel movements delivered on time and with consistency.

“It supports the long-term capability of the energy cluster here and reflects the consistently high standards of pilotage

and marine service on the Waterway.”

RECOGNISING CREWS

The ceremony also recognised the dedication and expertise of the Port’s launch crews and pilots, whose work underpins the safe movement of vessels in and out of Milford Haven.

The Port said the new vessel would strengthen operational resilience and support its long-term strategic objectives.

The Port of Milford Haven is the UK’s top energy port and Wales’ busiest port, handling around 20 per cent of Britain’s seaborne trade in oil and gas. It supports more than 4,000 jobs and operates as a trust port, with profits retained within the business to maintain and improve navigation, harbour services and port facilities.

Safety first as new pilot boat marks end of troubled chapter

GARY SOLOMON stood on the bridge of Llanion and paused.

For most people watching the new pilot boat arrive in Milford Haven, this was a day of engineering pride and port ceremony.

For Gary, it was far more personal.

Almost ten years ago, he was aboard the pilot vessel St Davids when it was involved in a serious collision during a pilot transfer operation with the LNG carrier Lijmiliya.

Three crew members were injured. The vessel was badly damaged. And for those who worked the Haven, the incident became part of a much wider debate about whether Milford Haven’s pilot boats were safe enough for the conditions they faced.

Now, after five years of work, Gary was standing on the bridge of the vessel designed to change all that. He had been involved in the Llanion project from conception to delivery.

As he showed The Herald the safety features on the boat, he became visibly emotional.

Later, he wrote online: “It’s been one of the best days and happiness in my career for a long time.

“Feeling so proud and grateful.

“I have been part of the pilot boat committee start to finish, developing this state-of-the-art boat, the most modern pilot boat in the world.

“It’s a journey I have gone through and never forget for big reasons.

“Safety is now close to my heart and hope to keep being part of boarding pilots safely in all weather conditions.

“We have some of the best crews in the world.”

For Gary, and for the wider pilot boat team, Llanion is not just a new vessel. It is the product of hard lessons, difficult memories and a determination that crews working in the Haven should have the safest platform possible.

BUILT FOR MILFORD HAVEN

sea.

The Port of Milford Haven says Llanion has been purpose-built for some of the most demanding pilotage conditions in the UK.

The 22-metre vessel is capable of speeds of up to 30 knots and is powered by two powerful water-jet propulsion systems, giving crews greater manoeuvrability when operating alongside large ships.

It is self-righting, meaning it can recover even after a complete rollover.

It is also designed to stay afloat even if multiple watertight compartments are flooded.

On board, the vessel carries CCTV to help track people overboard, along with thermal imaging and heatseeking technology to assist in locating people lost at

The same equipment can also help crews approaching vessels affected by fire by identifying cooler areas.

The result is a pilot boat which, in many ways, is closer to a specialist rescue craft than a traditional harbour launch.

“MORE LIKE A LIFEBOAT”

Sarah Thomas-Dawe, from BMT, which helped support and coordinate the project, said the vessel had been designed around Milford Haven’s unique operational demands.

She said ordinary pilot boats often did not have to cope with anything like the conditions faced off Milford Haven.

“This really was a

specialist requirement,” she said.

“It was really important that we worked very closely with the Port Authority, the yard and the operators to make absolutely sure we understood the full complexity of the requirement.”

She said one of the biggest challenges was the sea state the vessel had to handle.

“Ordinarily, a pilot boat might cope with two, three or four metres of swell,” she said.

“This one is designed for six.”

Asked whether Llanion was closer to a lifeboat than a conventional pilot boat, she said: “Yes, I think that would be a pretty good description of it.”

She added that the vessel’s ability to recover from full submersion made it “a very unusual craft”.

ENGINEERING CHALLENGE

Bastian, from Next Generation Shipyards, said the construction of Llanion had been an enormous project.

He said the self-righting capability had been one of the biggest technical challenges.

“We had to keep very close track of weight,” he said.

Every component had to be considered carefully to ensure the vessel would perform as designed.

He said reliability had been built into the boat from the start, with redundancy engineered into key systems.

“It wasn’t just about doubling components,” he said.

“That adds weight, cost and affects fuel efficiency.

“It had to be thought through from the ground up.”

The shipyard worked on the vessel for around two years, although the full project has taken

around five years from concept to delivery.

LESSONS FROM THE PAST

The arrival of Llanion comes after a difficult chapter in the Port’s pilot boat history.

The previous “Saints Class” boats — St Davids, St Brides and St Govans — became controversial after concerns were raised about their performance and suitability for Milford Haven’s conditions.

In 2018, The Herald reported claims from crew sources that the vessels were “not fit for purpose”, underpowered and difficult to handle in heavy weather.

At the time, questions were also raised after two of the new boats were placed on an operational pause while older vessels remained in use.

The issue carried further controversy because the boats had been built through Mustang Marine, a company part-owned by the Port of Milford Haven before it collapsed into administration and later re-emerged as Mainstay Marine.

The St Davids collision in 2016 gave those concerns a human face.

For Gary Solomon, the lessons were not abstract. They were lived experience.

“OUR GREATEST ASSET”

Tom Sawyer, chief executive of the Port of Milford Haven, said Llanion represented a major investment in safety.

Speaking aboard the vessel alongside Harbourmaster Mike Ryan, he said the boat mattered not only to the Port but to the whole Milford Haven community.

“This vessel is going to keep

people who are very, very dear to us, who we want to keep safe, safe,” he said.

He described Llanion as a “22-metre, jet-powered, self-righting” vessel designed to support crews facing some of the most severe weather conditions encountered by any port authority.

Mr Sawyer said the project had been shaped by lessons from previous experience.

He added: “We’ve spent more on this vessel than we spent on the previous three vessels combined.”

He said the investment was about protecting the people who keep the Waterway moving.

“Our greatest asset is our people,” he said.

A NEW ERA

For Milford Haven, Llanion is a statement of confidence in the future of the Waterway.

The Haven remains one of the UK’s most important energy ports, handling large vessels in challenging conditions throughout the year.

Pilot boat crews are at the sharp end of that work.

They operate at night, in rough seas, in poor visibility and alongside some of the largest ships entering UK waters.

The arrival of Llanion means they now have one of the most advanced pilot vessels of its kind.

But behind the technology, the speed and the engineering is a simpler story.

A crewman who lived through one of the most difficult moments in the Port’s recent pilot boat history helped deliver the vessel intended to make sure others are safer in future.

For Gary Solomon, that is why this day mattered.

Man remanded in custody over alleged domestic assault and abuse order breach

A HAVERFORDWEST man has been remanded in custody after appearing before magistrates charged with assault causing actual bodily harm, common assault and breaching a domestic abuse protection order.

David Guy appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (May 18) following allegations relating to incidents in Haverfordwest.

The court heard Guy is accused of assaulting a woman and causing actual bodily harm on Saturday (May 17). He also faces a charge of common assault alleged to have taken place between May

1 and May 17.

Guy is further accused of breaching a Domestic Abuse Protection Order imposed by Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Monday (May 12).

Prosecutors allege he was prohibited from being in the company of the protected person and from using or threatening violence, but failed to comply with the order on May 17.

Magistrates remanded Guy in custody. He is due to appear again before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (May 26).

Man remanded in custody over assault and criminal damage allegations

A GOODWICK man has been remanded in custody after appearing before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court charged with assault and criminal damage.

Scott Hughes appeared before magistrates on Monday (May 18) following allegations relating to an incident in Goodwick.

The court heard Hughes is accused of assault by beating during an incident at an address in Stop and Call, Goodwick, on Saturday (May 16).

He also faces a charge of criminal damage after allegedly damaging

property during the same incident.

Hughes did not enter pleas at Monday’s hearing.

Magistrates refused bail and remanded him in custody ahead of a further hearing.

The court was told bail was refused due to concerns Hughes was likely to cause injury or fear of injury to an associated person and because of concerns regarding possible interference with witnesses or obstruction of justice.

He is due to appear again before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (May 26).

BikeSafe sessions aim to help motorcyclists stay safer on the roads

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is encouraging motorcyclists to improve their skills and reduce their risk on the roads by signing up to the nationally recognised BikeSafe programme.

BikeSafe is a police-led initiative delivered by advanced police motorcyclists. It is open to riders of all abilities and combines classroombased input with an observed ride, giving motorcyclists practical, personalised feedback in real road conditions.

The programme focuses on key areas including hazard perception, road positioning, cornering and decision-making.

Motorcyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users, and police say initiatives such as BikeSafe play an important role in helping riders improve their awareness and confidence.

Dyfed-Powys Police has also recently held dedicated in-house BikeSafe sessions in Llandrindod

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Wells and Carmarthen for officers and staff who are keen motorcyclists.

The force said the sessions gave

staff the same guidance and coaching available to the public, reinforcing the importance of continual learning and safe riding both on and off duty.

Sergeant James Helyer said: “BikeSafe is about giving riders the tools and confidence to enjoy their journeys while staying safe.

“Whether you’re newly qualified or have years of experience, there’s always something to learn. It was fantastic to see our own staff engaging with the in-house sessions, and we’d encourage all motorcyclists across Wales to consider signing up.”

Chief Inspector Dominic Jones, who took part in the Carmarthen session, said: “I’ve been riding for a little over two years and have already been on the Enhanced Rider Scheme.

“I was overwhelmed by the brilliant organisation of the Dyfed-Powys BikeSafe event and the support and knowledge provided by the instructors was incredible.

“After attending, I feel more confident and I am a safer rider. I urge everyone with a motorbike to do as much additional training and learning as possible and I can personally vouch for the benefits of this course.”

BikeSafe workshops are held at various locations across the UK and are open to riders with a full motorcycle licence and their own roadworthy bike.

More information and booking details are available at bikesafe. co.uk.

Man jailed after breaching restraining order and assaulting two people

A HAVERFORDWEST man has been jailed after admitting breaching a restraining order and assaulting two people during an incident earlier this year.

Paul Webber, 38, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (May 18), where he admitted speaking to and being in the company of a protected person in breach of a restraining order imposed by the court.

The breach took place on Thursday (Apr 10).

Webber, of Haverfordwest, also admitted two counts of assault by beating

arising from the same incident.

Magistrates sentenced him to 18 weeks in custody.

The court heard the offending was aggravated by the fact that Webber had breached a court order and that one of those affected was considered vulnerable.

Compensation orders were made, along with prosecution costs of £120.

All offences were ordered to run concurrently.

Magistrates imposed a victim surcharge in line with sentencing guidelines.

Welsh activists detained after Gaza aid flotilla intercepted

THREE Welsh citizens are reported to be among hundreds of activists detained after Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in the eastern Mediterranean.

UK Global Sumud said Christopher Hill, Hannah Sharpey-Shafer and Richard Johan Anderson were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge Israel’s naval blockade.

Organisers said more than 50 boats were intercepted and around 428 participants were detained. Reuters reported that Israeli naval forces stopped the flotilla, transferred activists to Ashdod port and then to Ketziot prison in southern Israel. Israel said the group was trying to breach its blockade and would be given consular access.

Cal Rosie, head of press for UK Global Sumud, said the Welsh participants had been “taken against their will” and that supporters were “extremely concerned” about their welfare.

She said: “Christopher Hill, Hannah Sharpey-Shafer, and Richard Johan Anderson were attempting to bring lifesaving aid to Gaza and break the illegal Israeli siege when the entire flotilla of

more than 50 boats was attacked and all participants were detained and taken against their will to Israel.

“We have received extremely

distressing videos and images of the conditions the participants are being kept in and the brutal treatment they are receiving, and we are incredibly concerned for Chris, Hannie, and Richard.”

The group is calling for urgent

UK Government and Foreign Office intervention to secure the release and safe return of British citizens involved in the flotilla.

The Herald has contacted the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for comment.

Henry Tufnell accused of backing ‘drill baby drill’ tactics

PEMBROKESHIRE MP Henry Tufnell has been accused by local environmental campaigners of backing “drill baby drill” tactics over future North Sea oil and gas production.

Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth made the claim after Mr Tufnell wrote an article in The Sun in March criticising the UK Government’s position on new oil and gas drilling.

The group said it wrote to the Labour MP on April 3, challenging his comments and urging him to reconsider his position.

In its letter, the group argued that further North Sea drilling would do little

to reduce energy bills or improve energy security, because UK oil and gas prices are linked to international markets.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth said Mr Tufnell’s approach was “supported by the likes of Reform UK and Donald Trump” but rejected by energy and climate experts.

The group said the UK Energy Research Centre had concluded that additional UK oil and gas production would have “negligible impact” on the cost of living, and that the priority should instead be reducing demand and investing in renewable energy.

It also pointed to Climate Change Committee analysis suggesting that job losses in fossil fuel industries would be outweighed by job creation in areas such as renewable energy, retrofitting and electric vehicles.

Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth also criticised Mr Tufnell’s call for the removal of carbon taxes in manufacturing, saying it showed a lack of understanding of the urgency of climate change.

The group said Mr Tufnell had failed to reply to its letter, despite allegedly promising to do so during a face-to-face conversation in Narberth in April.

The spokesperson added: “The fact that the MP has refused to reply to our letter suggests that he either has more respect for a London tabloid newspaper than for his own constituents or is having difficulty justifying the viewpoints he presented in The Sun.”

MP says transition must protect jobs

In response, Mr Tufnell said he was “immensely grateful” for the work of Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth and praised the group’s campaigning on environmental issues.

He said he was proud to have supported the group last month by attending its screening of the People’s Emergency

Briefing film, which highlighted threats to nature and climate.

Mr Tufnell said Pembrokeshire was “uniquely placed” to lead the clean energy transition, citing floating offshore wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, sustainable aviation fuel and battery storage.

He added that the county was proud of its coastline, rivers and wildlife, and that the community was committed to protecting them.

However, he said the transition to clean energy had to be “a just one”.

Mr Tufnell said: “Pembrokeshire’s energy sector has powered the UK for decades, and still supplies 20% of the country’s energy demand.

“I am calling on the Government to protect our established energy industries by cutting carbon taxes. Failure to act puts jobs and livelihoods in industrial communities like ours at risk.

“Decarbonisation cannot come at the cost of deindustrialisation and greater deprivation in our county.”

He said households and businesses across the UK had felt the impact of conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, and argued that Britain must strengthen energy security by making full use of its own resources rather than relying on imports.

Mr Tufnell added: “Oil and gas will remain part of our energy mix for decades to come. It therefore makes sense to use our domestic resources.

“Doing so will not only strengthen our energy security, but support British industry — protecting jobs, boosting tax revenue, cutting our trade deficit and strengthening the economy.

“I will continue to work hard to ensure we have a just energy transition, protecting the jobs and skills base of today, while building the industries of tomorrow.”

Pembroke Dock drink-driver arrested on Cleddau Bridge

A 25-YEAR-OLD drink-driver has lost his licence after a member of the public became concerned about his manner of driving.

Lennox Evans was stopped by officers just before midnight on May 3 after he was discovered driving his Ford Zetec on the Cleddau Bridge.

“A member of the public had phoned police about the manner of his driving,” Crown Prosecutor Llinda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“The officers were given the registration number and the make of the vehicle and during a search of the area, they discovered the vehicle being driven by the defendant.”

When spoken to by the officers,

Evans admitted drinking two pints of alcohol earlier that evening.

Subsequent breathalyser tests carried out at the police station showed he had 47 mcg of alcohol in his system, the legal limit being 35.

Evans, of Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock, pleaded guilty to the drug driving offence and was represented in court by solicitor Alaw Harries.

“He accepts entirely that this was a complete error in judgement, as he didn’t believe that he was over the limit,” she said.

Evans was disqualified from driving for a total of 14 months and fined £120. He must also pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.

Police launch knife amnesty across Dyfed-Powys area

UNWANTED knives can be handed in at police stations across west Wales this week as part of a national campaign to tackle knife crime.

Dyfed-Powys Police is taking part in Sceptre, a national week of action running from Monday (May 18) to Sunday (May 24).

The campaign gives members of the public the chance to safely dispose of unwanted knives at police counters across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys.

Amnesty bins will be available at police stations in Carmarthen, Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Haverfordwest, Brecon and Newtown.

The week of action is also running alongside Knife Crime Awareness Week, organised by the Ben Kinsella Trust, which works to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime.

Inspector Darren Crockford said: “This is a vital week of action that we, along with forces UK-wide, participate in biannually. However, our dedicated push against knife-related crime never diminishes.

“Seizing knives and making arrests is an important part of the policing approach, however there is also focus on stopping the sale and supply of knives solely intended to harm, along with the supply to young people.

“We also work hard to identify potential knife carriers and engage

with people to understand why they may choose to carry a knife, then offer the appropriate support.”

Police said neighbourhood policing and prevention teams will also be carrying out engagement and prevention work during the week.

Inspector Crockford added: “Carrying a knife does not make anyone safer – a knife usually makes a situation much worse.

“Policing cannot tackle this problem alone, so we will be engaging with our partners to signpost to intervention and diversion work to reduce the threat and risks of knife crime.

“Reinforcing the dangers of carrying knives is a vital step in ultimately trying to prevent the devastating consequences that knife crime can have, not just for victims and their families but the entire community.”

Police are asking anyone with concerns about knife crime to contact Dyfed-Powys Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Concerns about unsafe public spaces can be reported through the StreetSafe website.

Unused knives and blades can also be disposed of safely at recycling centres. Residents are advised to check their local council website for details.

Milford Haven Waterway projects could be fast-tracked under new rules

Treasury plans would make it harder for major clean-energy and infrastructure projects to be delayed by legal challenges

THE MILFORD HAVEN Waterway

could be one of the areas most affected by new UK Government plans to speed up the delivery of major energy and infrastructure projects.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to announce reforms giving Parliament greater power to approve nationally important clean-energy schemes, including new power stations, offshore wind farms and grid connections.

The Treasury says the move is designed to strengthen energy security, reduce bills and support economic growth.

But the proposals could also prove highly significant for Pembrokeshire, where the Haven Waterway is increasingly being promoted as a key hub for floating offshore wind, port infrastructure, grid upgrades, hydrogen, and other cleanenergy projects.

Under the plans, Parliament would be able to designate key clean-energy schemes as being of “Critical National Importance”. That would reduce the scope for judicial review challenges, except on human rights grounds.

For other nationally significant infrastructure projects, including transport and water schemes, the government plans to introduce a fixed legal challenge window. Once that period has passed,

developers would have greater certainty that projects could proceed.

The Treasury said the aim was to stop repeated legal challenges from delaying projects considered vital to the country.

A Treasury spokesperson said: “For too long, vital infrastructure delivery has been delayed by judicial reviews of projects the country needs.

“The Chancellor won’t stand for it any longer and is bringing forward bold changes to support delivery.”

The announcement will be watched closely in Pembrokeshire, where Milford Haven Waterway already plays a major role in the UK’s energy system.

The waterway is home to major port, fuel, gas and power infrastructure, and is

central to plans for the next generation of low-carbon energy development in west Wales.

Supporters are likely to argue that faster decision-making could bring investment, jobs and supply-chain opportunities to Pembrokeshire.

However, the proposals may also raise concerns about local accountability, particularly if smaller energy projects are allowed to apply directly to the Planning Inspectorate rather than going through local councils.

That could leave communities feeling they have less influence over developments affecting their landscape, coastline and infrastructure.

The government says the new route would apply specifically to clean-energy projects, reflecting what it describes as the urgent need to move away from reliance on fossil fuels.

For Milford Haven Waterway, the reforms could mean major schemes connected to offshore wind, power generation, grid reinforcement and portlinked infrastructure move forward more quickly.

But they may also intensify debate over who gets the final say when national energy policy meets local communities.

Milford man admits handling stolen goods from three local properties

A MILFORD man has been sentenced for handling benches and a bike frame stolen from three separate properties in Haverfordwest.

This week Haverfordwest magistrates were told that during the night of July 16, 2025, a white van, driven by 29-year-old Simon Rees, was spotted close to where a number of burglaries had previously taken place in Haverfordwest.

“A bike frame and two benches had been taken from the properties, and while there was no evidence linking the defendant to the burglaries, each of those stolen items were discovered inside his van,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told the court.

A total of 8.3 grams of herbal cannabis was also discovered inside the van and inside Rees’ flat at Observatory Avenue, Hakin.

“Initially he said the garden benches had been given to him, but they were later identified by their

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

owners as the ones stolen from their properties,” concluded Linda Baker.

Meanwhile the owner of the bike frame, Scott Phillips, said the incident has had a serious impact on his partner and teenage daughter.

“The situation has caused them to be very upset,” he said in a victim impact statement read out to the court.

“People came into our garden which is a private place, and this made me angry and cross. I’ve worked for years to get these items, but then someone just takes them away.”

Rees pleaded guilty to three charges of handling stolen goods and one charge of possessing a controlled Class B drug, namely herbal cannabis.

“This was a particularly difficult time in his life, after losing some close family members, losing his

job, splitting up from his partner and losing contact with his children,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd.

“But he’s now doing very well.”

Rees was sentenced to a six month community order during which he must

carry out a 60-day alcohol monitoring programme, five rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was ordered to pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs and a destruction order was imposed for the herbal cannabis.

Two new Milford Haven schools could be built and open by 2032

NEW SCHOOLS in Milford Haven won’t be built before 2030 at the earliest, and 2032 for a planned Welsh Medium school, councillors heard.

The timeline was stated during discussions at Pembrokeshire County Council’s May meeting on educational matters in the county, including a revised governance arrangements for the sustainable communities for learning programme and planning for the future of Welsh medium education in the Milford Haven area.

At the meeting, Cllr Viv Stoddart reflected on a recent school panel visit to Milford Haven, saying a later private talk with pupils showed they were “acutely aware and acutely embarrassed by the situation in their school,” feeling like they were “second-class citizens”.

“Where does the school for Milford Haven sit? Is there a date for it? The state of the school has actually been a concern since 2012.”

Cllr Guy Woodham, who had earlier announced he was stepping down from his Cabinet education role, said he felt a personal disappointment to be stepping down before there was “a spade in the ground”.

He told members his understanding was the outline business case was due to be submitted to Welsh Government in June.

Mike Cavanagh, Head of Culture, Leisure, and School Modernisation told members the to-date £143m scheme needed a robust business case to Welsh Government, which had to be followed to gain approximately twothirds funding; the final business case expected in 2027, with hopes the

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

English Medium element of the new school would be built in 2030, and a new Welsh Medium in 2032.

In relation to Welsh medium education in the Milford area, a report for members said a 2025 Cabinet meeting had backed the Director of Education be given approval to commence the school

organisation process to establish a new 3-11 Welsh medium school in Milford Haven, with a decision now sought to commence statutory consultation.

It said there were currently 19 Welshmedium schools in Pembrokeshire, but no Welsh-medium school physically located within Milford Haven itself, one of Pembrokeshire’s largest population centres.

It said: “The establishment of a

new Welsh-medium primary school in Milford Haven would address the demand evident within the wider Milford Haven area and provide an opportunity to review and rebalance Welsh-medium catchment boundaries.”

Members backed the recommendation to commence statutory consultation on establishing a new Welsh medium primary school to serve the Milford Haven area.

Resubmitted application to convert Haverfordwest Halifax for new use

A FRESH call to convert a Pembrokeshire town centre former bank to a nail bar which was previously refused by county planners has been submitted. In a scheme refused back in March, Huw Tuyen Nguyen, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, sought permission for a change of use of the former Halifax bank at Grade-II-listed 10 Victoria Place, in Haverfordwest’s conservation area, to a nail bar, along with a related listed building consent. Halifax closed its Haverfordwest branch back in 2024, leaving it with no more branches in the county.

A supporting statement accompanying the nail bar application at the three-storey building said: “This application seeks to put the ground floor to an alternative commercial/retail use and which together with some internal and external alterations, also seeks to convert the upper two floors into a single high-quality flat.”

It went on to say of the change of use to a nail bar: “This part of the application

would allow the relocation and expansion of a professional service facility to serve Haverfordwest and the surrounding areas. This forms the basis of aspirations to grow the business, both in the immediate short term, and in the future as the business continues to grow.

“The applicant has explained that the current business is a nail salon which has been trading for some 15 years but under a different management. The applicant has had the business since January 2022.”

The application was refused on grounds including the design “fails to respect the historic character of the listed building and the wider terrace,” and “the proposal fails to satisfy the statutory duty to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Haverfordwest Conservation Area”. Since then, a resubmitted application, again through agent Hayston

Developments & Planning Ltd has been lodged with planners, with the flat element removed.

It includes a new shopfront design which would be “more traditional in design”.

A supporting statement says: “In our view, this revised proposal is considered to represent not only a significant improvement over the previously refused applications, but which should also result in an overall better, quality shopfront than the existing and be a welcome

enhancement to this town centre location. As such, the proposal should be welcomed by the council.”

It adds: “For the avoidance of any doubt, these revised applications do involve any change to the use of the upper floors, such as for possible future use as flats. The future use of the upper floors is still under consideration by the applicant.” The resubmitted application will be considered by county planners at a later date.

Teenager admits driving almost four times over drug-drive limit

A MILFORD teenager has been ordered off the roads after admitting driving her Corsa through the town centre when she was almost four times over the legal drug-drive limit.

Rosie Phillips, 18, was stopped by officers just before 11pm on December 20 as she drove her vehicle through Precelly Place, Milford Haven. A Police National Computer check showed that the vehicle was being driven without third party insurance, and it’s MOT had expired.

“The defendant was a provisional licence holder and there wasn’t a suitable passenger accompanying her,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“They could also smell cannabis emanating from the vehicle.”

A roadside drugs swipe proved positive while further tests carried out at the police station showed Phillips had 9.1mcg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in her system. The legal limit is 2.

Phillips, of Elm Lane, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to driving over the specified drug limit, driving without a valid test certificate, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and driving without third party

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insurance. Her solicitor, Tom Lloyd, said the defendant deeply regrets her actions on December 20.

“She’s mortified to be here today,” he said. “The vehicle was registered to

her, and this was a one-off immature error of judgement after she agreed to drive her boyfriend to get a bank card, even though she initially said no.”

Mr Lloyd said the offences were committed at ‘a particularly difficult time’ for the defendant, “She was hanging out with the wrong sort of

people but she’s now stopped taking cannabis and has replaced that with exercise, and goes to the gym on a regular basis,” he said.

Phillips was disqualified from driving for 12 months. She was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.

Builder jailed for £82,000 fraud affecting 18 victims

A BUILDER who defrauded 18 victims out of more than £82,000 has been jailed for three years and four months.

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

Lee Brown was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday (May 15) after admitting a series of fraud offences involving customers who paid him for building work that was either never completed or carried out to an unacceptable standard.

The court heard that Brown dishonestly obtained £82,771 over a four-year period by taking upfront payments from customers, often claiming the money was needed to buy materials.

Prosecuting counsel Mr Reynolds said many victims were left waiting for work that never began, while others were forced to pay additional money to have poor-quality work corrected.

The court was told that some of the offending continued while Brown was on both Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court bail for similar matters.

Mr Reynolds said the impact on victims had been severe and submitted that this should increase the sentence. He also highlighted Brown’s previous history, including a caution and a conviction for dishonesty.

The defence referred to ten character references and said there was a stark difference between Brown’s offending and his conduct in everyday life.

The court was told the offending had spiralled out of control during periods of bereavement and family illness.

The defence also referred to Brown’s diagnosed PTSD, physical health problems, limited repayments to some victims, and his previous military service.

HHJ Crowther rejected calls for the sentence to be suspended and jailed Brown for 40 months.

Passing sentence, the judge described the harm caused to victims and said Brown had shown no shame in the number and nature of the excuses he used.

She also criticised the “hubris” shown when Brown gave victims false reasons for failing to attend their properties, when he was in fact attending court.

Victim impact statements described anxiety, trauma, family pressure and

feelings of betrayal caused by Brown’s offending.

The court applied a 25% reduction for Brown’s guilty pleas, with further reductions reflecting his PTSD diagnosis and military service.

A timetable has now been set under the Proceeds of Crime Act in an attempt to recover money for victims. However, the prosecution said it was not expected that any assets or funds would be available for seizure.

VICTIM SPEAKS OUT

ONE of Brown’s victims told The Herald she had been left feeling “betrayed” after months of excuses and broken promises.

The woman, who moved to Cross Hands three years ago, said she initially hired Brown after he had previously carried out work for her, including decking and a new garage roof.

After moving into her new property on June 26, she said she needed secure fencing installed and also wanted a summer house built.

Brown attended the property, assessed the work and agreed a price of £3,800.

She said: “He was going on holiday and came over and put up some chicken wire fencing. He assured me he would be there for the two weeks I was away.

“But when I came home there was no fencing. Then the text messages started. No van, no show. It went on for months.”

She said Brown would sometimes call late at night and that the excuses he gave were similar to those heard by other victims.

“It was always something. The same story he told everyone,” she said.

The victim later pursued a County Court Judgment and was awarded around £5,500. However, she said she has received only £75.

“He only has to pay back £25 a month,” she said. “All I’ve had is £75.”

She also claimed Brown used personal tragedies as excuses, including referring to the death of his father-in-law, despite him still being alive at the time.

She said: “After I gave him the money, I never saw him again.

The victim said the case had been repeatedly delayed, with sentencing pushed back several times.

She added that she believes the scale of the fraud is wider than the 18 victims included in the case.

She said: “At the time there were 30 charges when he got to court, and now there’s upwards of 40 victims.

“He’s been doing this since 2021.”

Call for Welsh Government decision on DARC space radar

A CALL has been lodged for the contentious DARC ‘space radar’ scheme in Pembrokeshire to be decided by Welsh Government rather than county planners.

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

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

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

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

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

St Davids City Council members

level rather than by county planners.

action to oppose the project.

recently unanimously opposed the preapplication consultation proposals, and public objectors have raised concerns with protests recently taking place outside the barracks and County Hall, Haverfordwest, and former First Minister Eluned Morgan called for the scheme to be put on hold while Donald Trump is President of the USA.

Campaign group PARC against DARC, set up in 2024 to oppose scheme, has submitted an official request to ‘call in’ the application for DARC radar to the newly formed Plaid Cymru Welsh government, citing what it describes as “an extremely promising step forward for the campaign with an anti-DARC Plaid Cymru government now elected in the Senedd”.

A ‘call-in’ means the application could be decided at Welsh Government

Campaigners argue that DARC should be called in to Welsh Government on the basis that it is “clearly a nationally significant development that lies well outside of the scope for consideration of Pembrokeshire County Council alone,” urging that it is called in so that a “fair and appropriate consideration of the suitability of a development that is so widely opposed can be placed within the context of the national priorities of Wales going forward”.

Plaid Cymru voted at their national conference in October 2024 to take

Anyone wishing to comment on the application before the county council has until May 20.

Pembrokeshire-based Jerome Flynn, who was first famous for his roles in Soldier Soldier, Robson & Jerome and more recently Game Of Thrones has described the scheme as “the most unspeakably abominable planning application led by the US military, backed by Donald Trump to place 27 radar dishes right on the edge of our beloved coastal national park”.

Car bursts into flames near Redberth Croft as road closed after incident

A CAR was destroyed by fire near the entrance to Redberth Croft on Tuesday evening (May 19), prompting a road closure while emergency services made the area safe.

The incident happened just off the A477 at Redberth, where a vehicle caught fire and rolled into a hedge and the new entranceway to Redberth Croft.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze.

In a statement shared on social media, Redberth Croft thanked firefighters for their rapid response.

The business said: “A huge thank you to the Fire Brigade for their swift response in safely putting out a car fire that rolled into our hedge and new entranceway at Redberth Croft.

“Thankfully nobody was hurt, and we’re incredibly grateful for the professionalism and quick action of the emergency services.”

Photos from the scene show the vehicle completely burnt out, with extensive damage to the engine bay and interior, as firefighters worked nearby.

Motorists were warned to avoid the area while the road remained closed for safety reasons.

Redberth Croft added: “Please be aware that this is just off the A477 next to our new entrance, and the road is currently closed while the area is made safe. Please avoid the area and take care if travelling nearby.”

It is not yet known what caused the fire or whether any other vehicles were involved.

Cocaine deaths spark regional summit across West Wales

COCAINE has been identified in a significant number of drug-related deaths across Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire over the past year.

Frontline teams have also reported rising incidents of violence, aggression and criminal justice involvement among people accessing drug and alcohol support services.

Dyfed-Powys Police data shows cocaine is now the force’s second most seized drug, and remains widely used across a range of settings.

In response, the Dyfed Area Planning Board brought together representatives from health, policing, commissioned services, social services and community organisations for a regional summit aimed at understanding the scale of the problem and agreeing joint action.

Hywel Dda’s Community Drug and Alcohol Team opened the event with

an overview of emerging substance use trends. Dyfed-Powys Police then shared enforcement intelligence, while Public Health Wales provided a national perspective on stimulant use.

Clinical specialists also outlined the impact of cocaine use on maternity services, blood-borne virus transmission, exercise culture and the night-time economy.

The summit concluded with harm reduction training and group discussions focused on strengthening prevention, treatment pathways and community support across West Wales.

Steve Reynolds, Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service manager, said: “DDAS are incredibly encouraged by the success of this cocaine summit. Cocaine-related harms are complex and evolving, and through collaboration and open dialogue we can respond effectively.

“The summit reinforced the

importance of reducing stigma, expanding access to support, and ensuring that people who use our services receive compassionate, person-centred care.

“We remain committed to working with partners in developing practical actions that improve outcomes for individuals, families and communities.”

Detective Superintendent Gareth Roberts, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said:

“It was a pleasure to host this valuable event at Dyfed-Powys Police.

“As a force, we are committed to working in partnership to improve the health, wellbeing, and safety of our communities as we work hard to reduce the risk of drug-related harm.”

Craig Jones, Hywel Dda Prevention and Population Health Improvement Manager, said: “This summit marks the beginning of a coordinated regional effort to reduce harm, improve outcomes and strengthen support for

individuals, families and communities affected by cocaine use.

“Partners will now work together to address availability, risk reduction and access to support.”

Anyone experiencing problems with substance use, or anyone seeking more information about the Community Drug and Alcohol Team, can visit hduhb.nhs.wales/drug-and-alcohol.

JOBCENTRE PLUS SUPPORTS EMPLOYERS AND JOBSEEKERS

THIS week’s employment statistics highlight the great being undertaken by Jobcentre Work Coaches and Employer Advisors across South-West Wales. In Wales, the employment rate is 72.1% up 0.3%pts on the quarter and up 0.8%pts on the year. Unemployment is 3.6% - down 0.9%pts on the quarter and down 1.5%pts on the year.

The Department for Work and Pensions continue to deliver a wide range of quality programmes and services to jobseekers of all ages. Jobs Fairs continue to be a popular and dynamic event which brings our customers and employers together under one roof.

More than 270 people attended a successful Jobs Fair in Aberdare on 15 May 2026, bringing together local employers, training providers and jobseekers from across the Cynon Valley.

The event, held at Cynon Linc, was organised in partnership between Gerald Jones MP, Jobcentre Plus, and Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Work & Skills team. It welcomed 16 employers and organisations offering opportunities across a wide range of sectors including construction, manufacturing, social care, education, and the Civil Service.

Opening the event, Gerald Jones MP highlighted the importance of connecting local people with employment and training opportunities. Throughout the day, he was joined by Ann Crimmings, Head of RCT Work & Skills, engaging directly with both employers and attendees.

Attendees were able to speak directly with employers, explore job vacancies, and access advice on training and career development.

Wayne Haven, Employer Advisor for Aberdare said: “Through regular jobs fairs such as ours and in Swansea we are building strong partnerships and providing support to connect businesses with job-ready candidates, bringing employers and jobseekers together and creating clear pathways into work.”

Meanwhile in Swansea, our Employer Advisor Team hosted a highly successful Spring Jobs Fair on 15/04/2025 at Quadrant Shopping Centre. Delivered in collaboration with Swansea Communities for Work. The event welcomed over 25 employers, including DVLA, EE, and the Courts and Tribunal Service, offering a wide range of opportunities across sectors such as Customer Service, Teaching, Care, and Construction. With over 500 attendees throughout the day, the event proved to be a major city-centre success, providing live interview opportunities and on-the-day employment support. The scale and impact of the event have been widely praised by partners across the city, highlighting its value in connecting local people with employment opportunities.

Wyn Morris, Partnership Manager for Swansea Bay said: “To employers with vacancies, our message is simple: get in touch. Jobcentre teams can help you recruit the right people quickly”.

There is a national focus within DWP on the importance and value of undertaking Work Experience, especially for our younger cohorts. The following stories are three great examples where this programme really can make a difference.

Macy Power is a fantastic example of the success in undertaking a period of Work Experience. At one of her Job search Interviews, Macy agreed to join

DWP’s very own “Movement to Work” programme.

Macy thrived in her placement and was recruited into DWP as an Administrative Officer within Milford Haven Jobcentre. Not content with that, Macy decided to become a Youth Ambassador for South-West Wales and inspire others with her journey and commitment to supporting young people.

On Tuesday 5 May, Macy was invited to attend the Movement to Work (Work Experience) Youth Summit and Awards in London, where she proudly represented DWP. The event brought together young people and mentors from across the country to celebrate their achievements, and Macy’s presence highlighted both her personal progression and the positive impact of the programme.

Melvina Samuels, Employer Advisor at Milford Haven said: “We are incredibly proud of Macy and all she has achieved. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to supporting others truly reflect the values of both Movement to Work and DWP.”

Macy stated “DWP has given me valuable opportunities to develop, starting with support through the Movement to Work programme during a challenging time in my life. I was then offered a role in my local Jobcentre and encouraged to continue my development, completing the Level 3 Operational Delivery qualification within six months. The ongoing support from my manager and colleagues has been key in helping me grow in confidence and progress in my career!”

Meanwhile in Morriston, twelve of our customers have started work experience with our local Counter Fraud Investigation team. This success

follows an engaging and popular full day of Movement to Work information sessions delivered by the Swansea EA team which provided customers with clear insight into a career in the Civil Service.

Martin Walters, Employer Advisor with Swansea Bay Jobcentres said: “From the twelve participants we are excited at the prospect that at least half of them will be offered an eighteen Month contract with the department”.

In Aberdare, Tariq started his Universal Credit claim in November 2025 after leaving EE, with low confidence and needing support to rebuild his self-belief. Through regular engagement and support, he progressed onto a Movement to Work (Work Experience) placement at Llantrisant Jobcentre, where he became a valued team member. He was instrumental in supporting the delivery of a large Youth Jobs and Provisions Fair, demonstrating strong customer service and professionalism. With renewed confidence, he focused on interview preparation and mock interviews, leading to Tariq securing interviews with HMRC and Capital on Tap, who specialise in small business credit cards in Cardiff. Tariq has now accepted a job offer with Capital on Tap and is also awaiting the outcome of his HMRC interview.

Tariq said “Without the job centres guidance, and especially the support from Ffion, my Work Coach, I would not have been as prepared or confident for either opportunity. Her mentoring played a crucial role in helping me move forward and regain belief in my future. Thank you so much everyone at Llantrisant Job Centre”.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, said:

“Today’s figures show there were 416,000 more people in work than there was this time last year. While this is encouraging, we know the conflict in the Middle East is casting a shadow on the labour market.

“However, thanks to the choices we have made, we are in a stronger position to deal with the continuing volatility and costs of the war in Iran with our economy ranking as the fastest growing of any European G7 country last year.

“Boosting opportunity and tackling youth unemployment in every area remains our priority, and through our Jobs Guarantee we are helping young people into work, while engaging employers to ensure they have the skilled workforce that they need.”

Young people across West Wales offered support into green careers

YOUNG people across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys are being encouraged to take their next step into training, volunteering and paid work opportunities through Porth Gwyrdd.

Whether you are unsure about your future, struggling to find opportunities, looking to build confidence, or simply wanting to try something new, Porth Gwyrdd offers free, personalised support to help young people aged 16-30 move towards employment and new experiences.

The project supports young people from ethnic minority communities and those with disabilities to access opportunities within growing green sectors, while helping them develop valuable skills, confidence, and experience along the way.

Delivered through a partnership between Antur Cymru, Foothold Cymru, PLANED and Menter Gorllewin Sir Gâr, the project provides one-to-one support tailored to each young person’s interests, strengths and goals.

Young people taking part can access environmental training, volunteering experiences and paid work placements, while receiving guidance from a dedicated job coach. Opportunities range from hospitality and retail to conservation, farming, and heritage roles.

Jon Morgan, Porth Gwyrdd Project Manager, said: “There are countless young people who face additional barriers when trying to access employment and opportunities. Some of these barriers are visible,

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while others – such as dyslexia, neurodivergence, or the challenges faced by young people from ethnic minority communities – can often go unseen.

“At Porth Gwyrdd, we work

alongside young people to help them recognise their strengths, build confidence, and realise their potential in ways that are accessible, supportive, and meaningful to them.”

The project also works closely with employers to create inclusive opportunities, while helping organisations develop a more

sustainable and diverse future workforce. Porth Gwyrdd is funded through the Dormant Assets Scheme and distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund.

Young people and employers interested in finding out more, accessing support, or getting involved can visit: www.porthgwyrdd.org.uk

Stix Noodle Bar in Haverfordwest rewards visitors who park and shop local

A POPULAR restaurant is taking on one of the town centre’s biggest frustrations with a new initiative designed to ease parking stress and encourage more visitors into the heart of the community.

Stix Noodle Bar has announced a new scheme offering customers money off their bill when they show proof of paid parking in the town.

Under the initiative, diners who present an active parking ticket or parking app booking will receive the equivalent cost of one hour’s parking deducted from their meal bill.

The business says the idea was created in response to ongoing concerns about local parking pressures, while also supporting neighbouring independent traders and encouraging more people to spend time in the town centre.

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So are we. That’s why we’re doing something about it.”

The team behind the noodle bar is encouraging visitors to “park up, come in, eat well, then go explore some of the brilliant businesses right on our doorstep,” adding that “Haverfordwest is worth stopping for.”

The scheme has already received support from local representatives, including Reform Councillor, Scott Thorley, who praised the move as a practical way to support the town centre economy.

“This is an excellent idea,” he said. “Tackling parking stress while boosting local businesses and footfall in Haverfordwest — this is exactly the practical support our town centre needs.”

In a statement released alongside the launch, the restaurant said: “Tired of Haverfordwest’s parking stress?

Pembrokeshire named UK’s most photographed coastal national park

PEMBROKESHIRE has been named the most photographed coastal national park in the UK, according to new data from photo curation app Popsa.

The study, which analysed metadata from millions of customer photos uploaded in 2025, ranked Pembrokeshire Coast National Park sixth overall out of the UK’s 15 national parks.

It was the highest-ranked coastal park in the list, ahead of destinations including the Cairngorms, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, the Yorkshire Dales and Dartmoor.

Popsa gave Pembrokeshire a Photo Index Score of 28, representing 5.76% of all UK national park photography included in the study.

The company said the county’s 186mile coastline, with its limestone arches, sea stacks, beaches and hidden coves, offered “photographic variety that few parks can match”.

Barafundle Bay was highlighted as one of the most photographed locations, particularly at low tide, while Skomer Island was noted for its puffin colonies, which attract photographers between April and July.

Wales performed strongly overall, with all three national parks appearing in the UK top ten. Eryri, formerly Snowdonia, ranked fifth, Pembrokeshire sixth, and Bannau Brycheiniog, formerly the Brecon Beacons, tenth.

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Sinclair editor@herald.email

Together, the three Welsh parks accounted for 16.46% of all UK national park photography in the study.

The Lake District topped the list, followed by the South Downs, the Peak

District and the New Forest. Popsa CEO Liam Houghton said:

“Wales has three genuinely world-class national parks and this data shows they are clearly on photographers’ radar.

“But there’s a real gap between the quality of the landscapes and the volume of photos being taken there compared to

Pembroke Dock and Haverfordwest Mayors Raise

COUNCILLOR Michele Wiggins and Councillor Roy Thomas, both respective outgoing Mayors for Pembroke Dock and Haverfordwest, are proud to announce that they have had a truly successful year of raising funds and awareness for the Paul Sartori Foundation.

Councillor Michele Wiggins dedicated a great deal of her time supporting and championing her chosen charities, The Paul Sartori Foundation and Forever 11 throughout her mayoral term and raised £1,700 for each charity.

With equal dedication and spirit, Councillor Roy Thomas, supported by Mayoress Shirley Thomas, raised £2,172.50 for the Foundation, as well as raising money for charity Sandy Bear.

Throughout the year, both mayors have hosted afternoon teas, coffee mornings, sponsored walks, bingo evenings, and much more, in what has been a really special year of community spirit.

a £3,872.50 for

the English parks.”

The findings suggest Pembrokeshire remains one of the UK’s standout destinations for landscape, wildlife and coastal photography, while also underlining the continued importance of the national park to the county’s tourism economy.

The Paul Sartori Foundation

Cerys Lafferty

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The Paul Sartori Foundation’s Community Relationship Officer, Rosie-Faye Hart said: “As respected and prominent figures in the community, the support of the town mayors has had a significant impact on community awareness and participation, as well as ensuring that the safe continuation of these vital services are maintained through important community fundraising partnerships.”These partnerships are not just about raising funds, but also raising the profile of the charity,

spreading the word about the hospice at home services, and telling people about the fact that the services are free at the point of use.

Without this kind of community support and spirit, the Foundation would not be able to help so many of those in need across Pembrokeshire.

Being chosen as Charity of the Year means that Paul Sartori can

make a significant impact in a truly collaborative way, with communitie as the focus.

If you would like to choose Paul Sartori as your Charity of the Year in the future, they would be delighted to hear from you and support you in any way they can. Email Rosie-Faye on rosie-faye@paulsartori.org or call Head Office on 01437 763 223.

Thousands in Milford Haven urged to check broadband upgrade availability

THOUSANDS of homes and businesses in Milford Haven can now access Full Fibre broadband following a £2.1m investment by Openreach.

The upgrade means around 7,000 properties in the town are now able to move to faster and more reliable internet connections, with 85% of premises in the area covered by the new network.

Openreach says many residents and businesses may still be using slower connections because the upgrade is not automatic. Customers need to place an order through their chosen broadband

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provider to switch to Full Fibre.

Martin Williams, Partnership Director for Wales and the South West, said:

“Most of Milford Haven is now covered by Full Fibre, but many residents and businesses still haven’t made the switch. It’s not automatic – you need to place an order with your chosen broadband provider.

“The difference in speed and reliability can be significant, especially for busy households or people working

from home. We want to make sure everyone knows what’s available and how to get it.

“Openreach is committed to building the best Full Fibre network, and doing it sustainably. Through our Let’s Reach Zero strategy, we’re working to reduce carbon emissions, use fewer resources, cut waste, and protect nature wherever we operate.”

Full Fibre is designed to offer faster downloads, more stable connections and better performance when several devices are being used at the same time.

Openreach says the service can support modern online use including streaming, gaming, video calls, home working, online banking and running a business.

The company’s Full Fibre network now reaches 22 million homes and businesses across the UK. It plans to extend this to 25 million by the end of 2026, with the potential to reach 30 million by 2030 if investment conditions remain supportive.

Residents can check whether their property is able to upgrade by using Openreach’s Full Fibre checker.

Development Bank marks record charity year with £88,000 raised for bigmoose

STAFF at the Development Bank of Wales have raised more than £88,000 for mental health charity bigmoose during a record-breaking year of fundraising.

The money raised by the bank’s 280-strong team, including colleagues from subsidiary FW Capital, will help fund fast access to therapy and counselling for more than 170 people experiencing mental health challenges across the UK.

The partnership was the Development Bank’s tenth charity partnership and has become its most successful fundraising year to date.

Colleagues took part in a range of fundraising activities during the year, with the final total reflecting what the bank said was the commitment of staff across the organisation.

The Development Bank has now announced Maggie’s as its new charity partner for 2026/27, in memory of Dr Carl Griffiths, a much-loved colleague who died in autumn 2025 following a short battle with cancer.

Maggie’s provides free expert cancer support to people living with cancer, as well as their family and friends, through centres based alongside NHS hospitals across the UK.

Support includes psychological, emotional and practical help, benefits advice, coping strategies and one-to-

one counselling. Fundraising for Maggie’s will run throughout the year, with staff from the Development Bank and FW Capital taking part in activities to raise money and awareness for the charity’s work.

Jeff Smith, CEO and co-founder of bigmoose, said: “176 people will now receive a full course of therapy because of the support from the Development

Bank of Wales and FW Capital. That’s the power of partnerships like this –people getting the support they need, when they need it.

“With mental health services stretched to breaking point, bigmoose exists to disrupt how people access support by providing fast, effective therapy before people hit crisis point. Support from the Development Bank

of Wales and FW Capital allows us to keep delivering that service to the people who need it most.”

Rachael Davies, Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Development Bank of Wales Group for choosing Maggie’s as their Charity of the Year for 2026/27. Partnerships like this play a vital role in allowing us to keep our doors open and ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.

“We’re really looking forward to working with colleagues over the coming year and are thankful for their commitment to supporting people affected by cancer.”

Andrea Richardson, Chair of the Development Bank of Wales Charity Oversight Committee, said: “We’re incredibly proud of what our colleagues have achieved in support of bigmoose. Raising more than £88,000 over the past year is a record for us and reflects the generosity, commitment and energy of teams across the organisation.

“As we move into our new partnership with Maggie’s, we’re excited to build on that momentum and continue supporting charities that make a real, tangible difference to people and communities across the UK.”

Representatives from the Development Bank of Wales present a cheque to bigmoose.

Child of Wales Awards honoured with royal invitation

ORGANISERS of the Child of Wales Awards have been recognised for their work supporting and celebrating young people across Wales after attending a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.

Mark and Blanche Sainsbury, from Swansea, founders of the Ascona Group Child of Wales Awards, were invited to the royal event this month in recognition of the positive impact the awards continue to have on children, families and communities.

The awards were established five years ago to celebrate the courage, resilience and achievements of young people across Wales.

Each year, the event recognises children and young people who have overcome adversity, supported others, raised awareness for important causes, or made exceptional contributions to their communities.

Speaking after the garden party, Mark and Blanche said the invitation had been both humbling and emotional.

They said: “It was an incredible day and everything you’d expect

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from enjoying afternoon tea at the King’s home, but we really were just representatives of our team.

“This invitation belonged to the amazing young people, families, supporters and partners who make the Ascona Group Child of Wales Awards what they are.

“Every year we hear stories of courage, kindness and determination that remind us just how remarkable young people in Wales truly are. Representing the awards at Buckingham Palace was a proud moment not just for us, but for everyone involved.”

Now in its fifth year, the awards have become one of Wales’ leading celebration events, bringing together families, sponsors, celebrities and

supporters from across the country.

This year’s ceremony will take place on Friday, October 2, at Swansea Building Society Arena. It will be hosted by BBC presenter Gethin Jones and will feature a live performance from The Brand New Heavies.

Organisers say the event sold out seven months in advance, reflecting its growing profile and the strength of the stories at the heart of the awards.

The awards also raise funds for Welsh charities supporting children and young people.

Headline sponsor Ascona Group, which is headquartered in Pembrokeshire, is one of the UK’s fastest-growing forecourt operators, employing more than 900 people across more than 70 sites.

The company’s Ascona Giving Foundation supports community projects, children’s sports teams and foodbank charities, and has donated more than £800,000 since 2017. Ascona Group has also pledged to donate £1m to Wales Air Ambulance over the next ten years.

Bluestone’s steep ravine enters ‘new chapter’ as reopening date confirmed

BLUESTONE National Park Resort has confirmed that its muchloved Steep Ravine will reopen on Saturday, May 23, marking the return of Camp Smokey and Smokey Joe’s Shindig, alongside new zip line adventures for guests to enjoy this summer.

The award-winning 5* resort in Pembrokeshire was forced to close the Ravine in December 2024 after severe storm damage left the area unsafe. Since then, work has been underway to restore the site and ensure it can be safely enjoyed by guests once again.

When visitors return this summer, they will find a landscape that looks different to how they may remember it – a change Bluestone says reflects both the impact of the storms and a conscious decision to take a long-term, nature-led approach to its recovery.

James McNamara, Director of Product and Programme Development at Bluestone, said the reopening represents “a new chapter” for the Ravine.

“We know how special the Steep Ravine is to so many of our guests and closing it back in 2024 was not a decision we took lightly,” he said.

“The storm damage meant the area was no longer safe, so it was important that we took the time to restore the Ravine carefully and responsibly, working closely with specialists throughout the process.

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“Every step has been taken with care for the landscape and its future, while making sure guests can once again enjoy everything that makes this place so special.”

As part of the restoration work, areas of woodland affected by the storms were carefully managed to improve the long-term stability of the site. Bluestone says the landscape will continue to naturally regenerate and

evolve over time.

As part of this approach, some fallen timber and natural woodland material has intentionally been left within the Ravine to help support the recovery process. Over time, this will help return nutrients to the soil, encourage new plant growth and create valuable habitats for insects, birds and wildlife as the landscape regenerates naturally.

“Steep Ravine has always been about bringing people together outdoors – whether that’s around the campfire at Camp Smokey or experiencing the

adventure of the Ravine itself,” James McNamara added.

“We’re excited to welcome guests back this month and reopen a place that means so much to so many people.”

While the landscape has naturally evolved following the restoration work, Bluestone says the experience guests know and love is very much returning this summer.

Camp Smokey – the rustic outdoor dining spot at the foot of the Ravine –will once again serve lunches, BBQ feasts, drinks, marshmallow toasting around the fire and a brand-new lunch menu.

Evening entertainment also returns with Smokey Joe’s Shindig, featuring high-energy family sing-alongs, dancing and live entertainment at Camp Smokey.

Adventure seekers will also be able to experience two new guided zip line adventures.

The Summit Flight sends guests racing across the Steep Ravine on a high-speed 279m zip line experience, while the Double Glide features shorter zips designed to build confidence and excitement along the way.

“We’ve treated this special place with real care and respect,” James McNamara said. “It means a great deal to our guests and our team, and we’re proud to be reopening it in a way that keeps its spirit alive.”

Views sought on new West Wales Learning Disability Strategy

A CONSULTATION has been launched on a new regional strategy aimed at improving support for people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent people across West Wales.

The proposed West Wales Learning Disability Strategy 2026-2031 covers Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, and has been developed following two years of engagement with people with learning disabilities, neurodivergent people, families, carers, councils, health services and support organisations.

It would replace three separate but similar local strategies with one regional plan, supported by local action plans for each county.

The strategy has been reviewed by the Regional Improving Lives Partnership, which includes Pembrokeshire County Council, Carmarthenshire County Council, Ceredigion County Council, Hywel Dda University Health Board, Dream Team, Carmarthenshire People First, Pembrokeshire People First, the West Wales Regional Partnership, and projects funded through the Regional Integration Fund.

The plan is informed by the West Wales Population Needs Assessment and focuses on ten priority areas identified during engagement.

These include information, advice

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

and assistance, social services, health services, education, children and young people, socialising and friendships, day opportunities, volunteering and work, housing,

transport, advocacy, and support for carers.

Pembrokeshire County Council is now asking residents, service users, families, carers and organisations to give their views on the recommendations.

The consultation is open until Sunday (Jul 5).

People can take part online through the West Wales Regional Partnership Board website, on the West Wales Learning Disability Partnership page. Anyone who would like a paper copy can contact getinvolved@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk or call 01437 764551.

Vintage tractors take to Broad Haven beach for breast cancer fundraiser

A LINE of vintage tractors made an unusual sight on Broad Haven beach on Saturday as enthusiasts gathered for a fundraising run in aid of breast cancer research. The event brought together a colourful collection of classic farming vehicles, with Welsh flags and pink

decorations on display as supporters and spectators gathered along the seafront.

The tractors were parked on the

sand before taking part in the run, helping raise awareness and funds for the cause.

Group of cyclists raise funds for lifesaving service that helped friend

A GROUP of four friends who met whilst working at an oil refinery took on a 64-mile cycling challenge in aid of Wales Air Ambulance over the weekend.

Dave Moore, Derek “Dez” Nicholas, David “Bogie” Knight and Adam Murphy pulled on charity jerseys as they competed in the Black Rat Sportive on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

64-year-old Dave, who is retired and from Fishguard, says they chose the lifesaving service because it came to the aid of one of their riders.

He said: “Through the years we have supported dozens of charities in our region. I’ve always been into fitness challenges, competing in triathlons and marathons.

“When I was working at the Murco oil refinery we would rally a large number, we had around sixteen at one time. We would do everything from rowing events to cycling and running.

“We have supported Wales Air Ambulance in the past, but one of our group, David Knight, suggested that we make it the Charity of choice for this year’s fundraiser, because they came to his aid.”

David, who is known as “Bogie” among the biking community, suffered serious injuries after coming off his motorcycle after an incident on the A483 in 2000. He was travelling from Llandovery to an event in Builth Wells when he was involved in a head on collision with a car.

He said: “All I remember was hearing brakes squealing coming down the hill. It was so quick I didn’t have time to brake; I was travelling in my lane when the next thing I was airborne.

“My motorbike hit the car, I catapulted over the top of it and travelled a few yards down the road landing on a metal barrier,

Cerys Lafferty Cerys@herald.email

which had a massive drop down the side of the mountain. I was lucky I didn’t go over the top.”

He was travelling with two friends at the time, one had gone on ahead, but another rider who was an ex-firefighter was close behind.

The father of two said: “Tony could see the car was up against a metal barrier on the edge of the bend – my motorbike was half on the barrier and half on the car. He could not see me as he came up. He parked up and spotted me on the floor. I was pretty bashed up.”

Both the Wales Ambulance Service and Wales Air Ambulance attended. With David being flown to Glangwili Hospital. He required a spinal block to enable his leg to be straightened.

He also underwent surgery on his leg and hand, with pins inserted into his hip and knee to stabilise his broken femur and a wire inserted into his dislocated thumb.

He said: “It took six months for me to recover from my injuries. Just talking about it still makes me feel emotional, it’s the realisation of how lucky I was that day. It could have been so much worse.”

Wales Air Ambulance is consultantled, taking hospital-standard treatments to the patient and, if required, transferring them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury.

It is delivered via a unique third sector and public sector partnership. The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £13 million required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road.

The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the Charity’s vehicles.

This advanced critical care includes the ability to administer anaesthesia, deliver blood transfusions and conduct minor operations, all at the scene of an incident.

As a pan-Wales service, its dedicated crews, regardless of where they are based, will travel the length and breadth of the country to deliver emergency critical care.

David said: “It’s incredible that the Charity must raise such a large amount each year to ensure the service keeps running.

“That’s why it feels very special doing our bit to help. We have already raised over £1.6k on our Go Fund Me page, and Impala will be match-funding the final total.”

The Black Rat Sportive is a cycle ride centred around the Wye Valley and Monmouthshire. Riders will cover 64-miles with about 3,600 feet of climbing.

Mike May, Wales Air Ambulance Regional Fundraising Manager said: “It’s always hugely inspiring to see our past patients making such an amazing recovery after suffering terrible injuries.

“We are grateful that David nominated us as the chosen Charity to benefit from the group’s fundraiser at the Black Rat Sportive.

“Our Charity relies on fundraising activities like this to ensure that we can attend patients whenever and wherever they need us.

“Every pound raised this weekend will make a lifesaving difference. Diolch yn fawr!”

Cardigan family’s urgent appeal after father suffers devastating stroke

A CARDIGAN family has launched an urgent appeal for help after a 72-year-old father suffered a massive stroke while mowing his garden, leaving him unable to speak, swallow or move the right side of his body.

Les Bell collapsed on Monday, May 11, after suffering what doctors described as an intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) – a serious form of haemorrhagic stroke caused by bleeding in the brain.

His daughter, Jessica Grieve, said the bleed was extensive and that her father remains in a critical condition on an acute stroke ward.

The former pilot, who now works as a flight training consultant at Gatwick Airport, is currently being fed through a tube and can only communicate through eye contact, small nods and grunts.

Jessica said: “Dad has lost the right-hand side of his body, has to be tube fed as he’s not conscious enough

to perform a swallow test, although it would seem the muscles on the right side of his throat aren’t working.

“He can’t talk. He can only communicate with brief eye contact, small nods and grunts.”

She added that doctors are still unable to predict her father’s longterm prognosis.

“We don’t know the prognosis, only time will tell, but he is in a critical condition and it’s likely to remain that way for some months,” she said.

The family is now facing a financial crisis after Les, who was the main income earner, became suddenly incapacitated.

Jessica said her father managed all household finances, while her mother is unable to work due to disabilities and her brother, Jake, is still suffering the effects of cancer treatment and cannot work full-time.

She is now applying for lasting power of attorney in order to access her father’s bank accounts, but said

the process could take up to ten weeks.

In the meantime, the family say they are struggling to pay rent, bills and other essential costs.

Jessica has launched a GoFundMe appeal to support the family during the coming months.

She said: “I’m asking for donations

of any kind to help them pay for the urgent bills while we’re waiting for other benefits and LPA to begin.

“If we can get them through the next couple of months we’d be so, so grateful.”

Anyone wishing can visit the GoFundMe page here: Help for the Family of Les Bell.

Celebrate in style at Plas Pantyderi Manor

If you are looking for somewhere truly special to bring family and friends together, Plas Pantyderi Manor offers a celebration setting that is hard to match anywhere in Pembrokeshire.

Set within its own private grounds near Blaenffos, Boncath, this beautifully restored Grade II listed Georgian manor house is quickly becoming a goto destination for birthday weekends, family celebrations, reunions and private group getaways.

Sleeping up to 21 guests, Plas Pantyderi combines the character and grandeur of a historic country house with the comfort, warmth and flexibility of a luxury self-catering retreat.

Whether it is a landmark birthday, a multi-generational family gathering, a long-overdue reunion, or simply an excuse to spend quality time together in beautiful surroundings, the Manor offers a private space where memories are made. A private manor house made for bringing people together

Plas Pantyderi Manor is not just somewhere to stay — it is somewhere to celebrate.

The Manor’s large social spaces make it ideal for groups who want to enjoy time together under one roof. Guests can gather in the huge living room with its indoor bar and large fireplace, sit together in elegant reception rooms, relax in the snug, or enjoy the billiard room and play area.

At the heart of the house is the impressive dining room, with seating for up to 21 guests, creating the perfect space for birthday dinners, family feasts and special celebration meals.

The fully equipped social kitchen and large working kitchen also make self-catering easy, whether guests are preparing their own meals or planning something more indulgent.

PRIVATE DINING WITH LOCAL CHEFS

For those wanting to make a special occasion even more memorable, Plas Pantyderi can work with local chefs to create a private dining experience at the Manor.

That means guests can enjoy the privacy and comfort of the house while still treating themselves to a professionally prepared celebration meal — ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, family weekends and special gatherings.

It is this blend of flexibility and luxury that makes the Manor stand out.

NEW SPA AREA COMING SOON

Adding even more appeal, Plas Pantyderi is currently installing a brand-new spa area, including a:

• Hot tub

• Sauna

• Cold plunge

This exciting addition will give guests even more reason to book, helping turn a special stay into a full celebration retreat.

For local families and groups looking for a weekend away without travelling far, the spa development adds a fresh luxury element that will make the Manor even more attractive for short breaks and celebratory stays.

Space, comfort and character across three floors

The Manor offers 10 beautifully restored bedrooms across three floors, many with flexible bed arrangements, making it ideal for larger groups with different needs.

Inside, the décor reflects the property’s Georgian heritage, with muted tones, carefully chosen

furnishings, Welsh artwork and locally produced Welsh blankets helping create a warm and elegant atmosphere throughout.

There are spacious living areas, cosy fireplaces, grand sash windows, lake views, and plenty of room for guests to spread out and relax.

From lively birthday meals to quiet morning coffees overlooking the grounds, the Manor gives guests the rare luxury of having both social space and privacy.

A LOCAL FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS WITH WELSH HERITAGE

Part of what makes Plas Pantyderi so special is the story behind it.

The Manor has been in the same family for three generations and is now run by local sisters Anna , Lisa and Efa, who have lovingly restored the property while keeping its character

and heritage alive.

Set within the grounds of the family farm, the Manor is deeply rooted in the local area and reflects a genuine sense of Welsh identity, hospitality and pride.

For guests, that means staying somewhere with real history, personality and care behind it — not just another holiday property.

PRIVATE GROUNDS AND A STUNNING RURAL SETTING

Outside, the Manor is surrounded by sweeping lawns, a tree-lined driveway, a lake and peaceful Pembrokeshire countryside, with panoramic views towards the Preseli Hills.

The private grounds create the perfect backdrop for garden drinks, outdoor games, family photos, picnics and relaxed celebration weekends. There is plenty of room for children to explore, space for guests to unwind, and a real sense of escape — all while still being within easy reach of the local area and coast.

PERFECT FOR LOCAL CELEBRATION WEEKENDS

Plas Pantyderi is now placing greater focus on welcoming local people from Pembrokeshire and beyond who want a memorable place to celebrate with family and friends.

Instead of the stress of organising a celebration across multiple venues, the Manor offers the chance to bring everyone together in one impressive private setting — with room to dine, stay, celebrate and relax.

It is ideal for:

• Birthday weekends

• Family celebrations

• Reunions

• Friends’ getaways

• Special occasions

• Private celebration stays

SPECIAL HERALD OFFER

Readers booking a stay at Plas Pantyderi Manor can enjoy a 10% Herald offer on breaks booked until 15th December 2026.

This makes now an excellent time to plan a celebration weekend, family gathering or private group stay. Book your stay

To find out more or to book, visit:

Book now:

https://pantyderi.com/book-now/ Website: https://pantyderi.com Telephone: 07932 956099 Email: stay@pantyderi.com

More than windows and doors why homeowners across South and West Wales trust Sapphire

FOR more than 36 years, Sapphire Windows & Doors has been helping homeowners across South and West Wales improve their homes with high-quality windows, doors and glazing products designed for style, security, energy efficiency and longlasting performance.

Established in 1989, the familyrun Welsh business has built a strong reputation for quality products, expert installation and customer care. Following the opening of its new Milford Haven showroom, Sapphire

of glazing and home improvement products across South and West Wales, including exclusive collections not widely available elsewhere in the region.

Among Sapphire’s most popular ranges is its Sunflex aluminium collection, featuring ultra-slim sliding and bifold systems designed to maximise natural light and create modern open-plan living spaces. Its internal OTIF steel doors have also become a customer favourite as Crittall-style glazing continues to grow in popularity.

Sapphire’s uPVC products are available in more than 40 colours alongside a huge range of glazing styles, accessories, hardware and finish options, helping homeowners create a bespoke and made-to-measure finish tailored to their property.

Performance is just as important as appearance. Sapphire carefully selects quality components designed to deliver durability, security and everyday reliability, while helping improve thermal efficiency, reduce drafts and lower household energy costs.

is now bringing its trusted approach even closer to homeowners across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and wider South and West Wales.

Located at 61 Charles Street, Milford Haven, the new showroom allows customers to explore Sapphire’s extensive product range in person - from premium uPVC windows and composite entrance doors to sleek aluminium sliding and bifold systems, alongside stylish internal Crittall-style steel doors.

Unlike browsing online alone,

visitors can experience the quality, finish and operation of products firsthand, explore colours, glazing options and finishes, and speak directly with Sapphire’s experienced team in a relaxed, no-pressure environment.

Sapphire believes “it costs nothing to look,” and the showroom includes products to suit a wide range of styles and budgets - from practical everyday upgrades to premium architectural glazing systems.

What started as a business focused purely on uPVC products has evolved into one of the widest ranges

Composite doors remain one of the company’s most popular products, alongside Sapphire’s premium GERDA aluminium entrance door collection, known for combining modern design, outstanding security and exceptional thermal performance. Many designs can also be customised in any RAL colour for a completely bespoke finish.

Customers can also use Sapphire’s interactive door designer to customise colours, glazing and accessories, and even upload a photograph of their own home to visualise different styles before making a decision.

Because Sapphire manufactures

its own uPVC products in-house at its Ammanford factory, the company can also take on more bespoke and technically challenging projects, including shaped frames, custommade designs and specialist installations. Alongside uPVC, aluminium and steel products, Sapphire also offers premium sustainable Accoya timber products, particularly suited to heritage and listed properties.

Every installation is carried out by Sapphire’s own directly employed fitting teams - never subcontractors - helping maintain the quality and attention to detail the company has become known for over the last 36 years.

Sapphire believes choosing new windows and doors should feel straightforward and stress-free. The company offers free, no-obligation quotes, free home surveys and expert

advice, with no pushy sales tactics or follow-up sales calls - encouraging customers to take their time and make the right decision for their home and budget.

One recent customer said:

“From start to finish, the whole experience with Sapphire was brilliant. The team were professional, friendly and took real pride in their work. The quality of the products and attention to detail were outstanding, and the fitters left everything spotless.”

As a proud bilingual business, Sapphire supports customers in both Welsh and English, with every installation carried out by experienced FENSA-approved installers and backed by a 10-year guarantee and FENSA insurance-backed warranty for complete peace of mind. Flexible finance options are also available.

Shaun Matthews, secondgeneration Director of Sapphire

Windows & Doors, said:

“When people invest in new windows and doors, they are investing in their home, and that is something we never take lightly.

“We are incredibly proud of the care our team takes in customers’ homes and the attention to detail they bring to every installation.”

Russell Matthews, founder and

Director of Sapphire Windows & Doors, added:

“Opening our new Milford Haven showroom is another very special milestone for us.

“As a family-run company, those values of trust, care and strong relationships have always been at the heart of everything we do.”

Milford Haven Showroom

61 Charles Street, Milford Haven, SA73 1SA

Ammanford Showroom, Ammanford 57-59 Wind Street, Ammanford, SA18 3DT

sapphirewindows.info

Facebook & Instagram: @SapphireWindowsUK 01269 596480

Free no-obligation quotes available Croeso cynnes i chi gyd a warm welcome to you all! Trust your home to Sapphire™

Two simple steps to help keep summer bugs away

HOUSEHOLDERS in Wales are being urged to take action now to reduce the risk of wasp and mosquito problems later in the summer.

Experts at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) say two simple spring checks could help prevent gardens, sheds and homes becoming a breeding ground for pests.

Residents are being advised to look under eaves, inside sheds and garages, and around sheltered spots in the garden for early wasp nests. At this time of year, nests are often small — around the size of a golf ball — and can be dealt with before they become established.

People are also being urged to empty water butts, watering cans, buckets and any containers where rainwater may have collected over winter. Cleaning them out can help remove overwintering mosquito eggs.

Niall Gallagher, Technical Manager at BPCA, said: “These two simple steps in spring can make a real difference in the summer.

“Deterring wasps and mosquitoes from settling down and breeding in your garden means you’re much less likely to have problems with them later in the summer.

“You can’t keep them out, but a few visitors are much less hassle than thousands of insects that have moved in for the season.”

Wasps play an important role as pollinators and natural pest controllers, feeding on aphids and other insects. Where a nest is in a low-traffic area, BPCA says it may be best to leave it alone.

However, nests left to develop through spring and summer can contain between 5,000 and 8,000 adult wasps by late August. If one wasp senses a threat, it can release a pheromone which alerts the rest of the nest and may trigger a mass stinging response.

Removing an early-stage nest will not stop a queen wasp from building elsewhere, but it can encourage her to choose a site away from sitting areas,

homes and places where children play.

Mr Gallagher added: “At this time of year, bumblebees, bees, wasps and hornets are all likely to become active again after the winter.

“All of these insects build nests that can look very similar, but each requires different methods to deal with any issues — particularly as a quarter of all bee species are endangered, so it really is important to ensure correct identification if a nest is found somewhere it shouldn’t be.

“If there is any doubt at all, we highly recommend getting in touch with a BPCA member for advice.”

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water, including ponds, ditches, marshes, water butts, buckets and watering cans. Emptying stagnant water and cleaning containers can reduce the number of mosquitoes emerging as temperatures rise.

Mr Gallagher said most native UK mosquitoes pose little risk beyond itchy or swollen bites, although some people may suffer an allergic reaction requiring medical attention.

He added that climate change could increase the risk of non-native mosquito species becoming established in the UK.

Eggs from the Egyptian mosquito were detected for the first time in the UK at Heathrow Airport in September 2023, while Asian tiger mosquito eggs were found at a service station on the M20 in Kent in August 2024.

Anyone experiencing problems with wasps, mosquitoes or other insects around their property can contact a BPCA member business for advice.

BPCA member businesses are endorsed through the Government’s TrustMark quality scheme and must carry appropriate insurance. Technicians are trained, qualified, assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636, and follow BPCA Codes of Best Practice.

For more information, visit bpca.org. uk/find.

Torch Youth brings fresh twist to Robin Hood legend

Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight has been written especially for Torch Youth Theatre and will run for three nights, from Monday, July 20 to Wednesday, July 22, at 6:30pm.

The production promises adventure, comedy, romance and mystery, while giving the classic tale a fresh Pembrokeshire stage treatment.

Director Tim Howe, who is originally from Nottingham, said the legend had been part of his life since childhood.

He said: “I grew up surrounded by the legendary tales of Robin Hood and his merry men — stories filled with bravery, rebellion and mischief.

“Add to that the brilliantly funny Maid Marian TV series with Tony Robinson, which kept me glued to the TV throughout my childhood, and you can imagine how deeply rooted all the versions of the Robin Hood stories are for me.

“It’s been great to explore them and reimagine them with our young people in mind.”

The story of Robin Hood has been told, retold and reinvented since the 1300s, and the Torch version keeps many familiar ingredients — greenclad heroes, robbing from the rich to give to the poor, a damsel in distress and a power-hungry ruler.

But this new production also changes the legend in unexpected ways.

Tim said: “You’ll find that Prince John has been replaced by his mother, the ruthless Queen Eleanor, and there’s a mysterious Black Knight who keeps popping up.

“We’ve also had a lot of fun developing some of those key members of the gang — Will Scarlett loves to dress up in disguises, and Allan-a-Mor is a musician desperate to find the perfect four-chord song.

“So, it’s the classic legend… sort of!”

Tim described the play as “adventurous, hilarious and heartfelt”, adding that the production had been designed to give every young performer a meaningful moment on stage.

He said: “With large ensemble action-filled moments, to quieter character-driven scenes, there’s space to suit everyone’s skills.

“Torch Youth Theatre aims not just to develop the young people’s acting skills, but also their confidence, teamwork and imagination, and largescale productions like this are the perfect opportunity to do just that.”

Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight will be staged at the Torch Theatre on Monday, July 20, Tuesday, July 21 and Wednesday, July 22 at 6:30pm.

Tickets cost £10, or £8 for concessions, and can be booked at torchtheatre.co.uk or through the Box Office on 01646 695267.

A welsh flavour at the Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage Fair

THE next Antiques and Vintage fair to be held at the Civic Hall Llandeilo, will be on Saturday 6 th June and will definitely have all the variety that we come to expect from this quality fair.It provides visitors with inspiration and a choice of antiques and vintage on offer , at affordable prices.

The Llandeilo Antiques fair can be located in the heart of Llandeilo, close to the main car park.Here you will find a bustling, vibrant Fair with lots of antiques and vintage to whet your appetite. The fair now includes a vintage element with a touch of retro and some impressive outside stands.

Being a Welsh Fair it is understandable that there should be a good selection of Welsh items on offer. Whether it’s an original Welsh watercolour or oil painting or a piece of Welsh pottery or examples of Welsh textiles, visitors will be surprised by the variety on offer.The Welsh Sampler , a hand made embroidered picture ,stitched in colourful yarns,is a typical example of Welsh folk art and has become highly collected.

The next Antiques and Vintage fair to be held at the Civic Hall Llandeilo, will be on Saturday 4 th April and will definitely have an Easter flavour. The fair provides visitors with inspiration and a choice of antiques and vintage at affordable prices.

The Antiques fair can be located in the heart of Llandeilo, close to the main car park.Here you will find a bustling, vibrant Fair with lots of antiques and vintage to whet your appetite. The fair now includes a vintage element with a touch of retro and some impressive outside stands.

Being a Welsh Fair it is understandable that there should be a good selection of Welsh items on offer. Whether it’s an original Welsh

watercolour or oil painting or a piece of Welsh pottery or examples of Welsh textiles, visitors will be surprised by the variety on offer

While embroidery is a craft going back thousands of years, the history of Embroidery Stitch Samplers starts in Europe during the Renaissance.

The word “sampler” derives from the Latin exemplum via the French essamplaire –meaning “example.” These samplers functioned as practice pieces, a way for stitchers to learn stitches and, once completed, served as a reference guide for future projects.

Before the introduction of printed designs, embroiderers and lacemakers needed a way to record and reference different designs, stitches and effects.

The answer was to create a sampler – a personal reference work featuring patterns and elements that the owner may have learned or copied from others, to recreate again in new pieces.

Such stitch and pattern collections may have been assembled in a number of cultures where decorative needlework was widely practised. Early examples rarely survive, but the quality of the oldest surviving samplers suggests they were made by experienced hands, as well as children, (in many cultures learning needlework was an important part of a young girl’s education). The earliest were found in Egyptian burial grounds, and probably date from the 14th or 15th centuries.

Samplers date back to the 15th

century and were used as a way of practising the needlework necessary to decorate items such as clothing, tapestries, fire-screens and bed linens in the home.

A needlework sampler is essentially a piece of embroidery or cross-stitching that demonstrates a person’s needlework skill. They often include the alphabet, figures, motifs, decorative borders or sometimes text.

Seen today as antique folk art, samplers are very unique and very personal. They are often dated and include the name of the person who did the stitching, giving a fascinating snapshot of a young person in an era that we rarely see

The earliest dated cross stitch sampler currently known is held at the

Victoria and Albert Museum. It was made by an English girl, Jane Bosticke with the date 1598 embroidered onto the piece.

Silk thread was used to stitch onto linen. In her work, Jane depicts floral and animal motifs as well as an alphabet, suggesting that she had access to a very early pattern book. In addition to demonstrating cross stitch and backstitch, she included satin, chain, ladder, buttonhole, two-sided Italian crosses and bullion, as well as french knots.

In the sampler below, there’s a square of letters and geometrics and then several motifs. It served as a record of patterns and elements the original stitcher learned or copied–and can now restitch in new pieces.

Spot samplers are filled with randomly placed motifs as on this piece with its assorted geometric and floral motifs.

In the 18th century, English sampler formats evolved to be something for display rather than pieces to be rolled

up and kept for reference.

Alphabets and repeating patterns were still included with verses added along with favorite themes of a house and garden.

In a band sampler, the embroidery is done in rows of different stitches and motifs. Each row (or band) gives the stitcher a spot to experiment with a variety of techniques, from basic to complex.

The sampler above is a 19 th century band sampler on natural linen stitched in three sections or bands. The first is filled with alphabets. Alphabets were practiced by a stitcher often for the marking of linens to be returned after washing.

Welsh samplers, particularly those from the 19th century, are cherished as unique folk art, often featuring vibrant wool thread on canvas known as “Welsh Woollies”. Distinctive for their bright colors, large-meshed canvas, and motifs like churches, birds, and stylized plants, they often highlight Welsh language, culture, and local

landmarks.

19th Century “Woollies”: Unlike earlier, more delicate silk samplers, Welsh samplers from the latter half of the 19th century commonly used colored wools on coarse canvas. This made them accessible and reflective of local materials.Distinctive Regional Styles such as those from the Carmarthen Area which were known Known for depicting large bird motifs, paired figures (shepherds), leafy borders (often acorns), and red ruins. Anglesey were known for their Welsh language inscriptions (e.g., dated 1806) and motifs like houses, animals, and flowers.

Carmarthen, is an area in South West Wales which has a rich textile history and thousands of samplers were sewn there in the 19th century.

Many of its samplers have a pair of very large birds, sometimes the predominant motif but also accompanied by other major elements. I am not sure where the pattern originated or what sort of birds they are

but they are certainly distinctive.

By the 19th century the sampler in England had become mostly a schoolroom exercise worked almost exclusively in cross stitch.

Today, you can find hundreds of sampler-styled embroidery patterns and kits in crossstitch and still remains an enjoyable pastime

There will be a selection of samplers on display at the Llandeilo fair with Glynda Speed , one of our exhibitors ,having a fine collection on display

The Llandeilo fair has a rich cross section of antiques and vintage on display, from jewellery,watches, books, ephemera, militaria and vintage clothes and accessories. There will also be collections of glass and up cycled and pre loved furniture, plus interior design pieces. I’m sure visitors will not be disappointed with the selection on offer at this popular fair.

Homemade refreshments will be available and doors open at 10 am until 4pm.Admission is just £2 and dogs are welcome.

Shell warning Should matter to waleS

A GROUP of current and former Shell employees has done something unusual: they have publicly challenged one of the world’s biggest oil companies over its climate strategy.

At Shell’s shareholder meeting in London, five current and 19 former employees warned that the company’s continued focus on oil and liquefied natural gas could leave it exposed as the world moves towards cleaner energy.

Their argument is not simply environmental. It is financial.

They are asking a serious question: what happens to Shell’s profits if governments, investors and consumers move faster than expected away from fossil fuels?

That question matters far beyond Shell’s boardroom. It matters to pension funds, workers, ports, supply chains and communities that have been built around energy.

Here in Pembrokeshire, this is not a distant corporate argument. Milford Haven has long been one of Britain’s great energy gateways. Tankers, terminals, refineries, power generation and port jobs have shaped the county’s economy for generations.

LNG is part of that landscape. So when former Shell engineers and managers warn that new gas infrastructure could become a 30-year bet on a changing world, that warning lands close to home.

Nobody serious is pretending that oil and gas can simply be switched off tomorrow. Homes still need heating, businesses need power, and energy security has become more urgent since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and continuing instability in the Middle East.

But energy security and climate responsibility are not opposites. The real question is whether today’s profits are being used to build tomorrow’s resilience.

Former Shell staff say the company has shifted direction since Wael Sawan became chief executive in 2023, placing renewed emphasis on oil and gas while scaling back some lowercarbon projects.

One former employee warned that major investment in LNG infrastructure could lock the company into assets designed to last for 30 years, even though the world may look very different within a decade.

That is the heart of the climate

challenge. The old energy system was built around long-term infrastructure and predictable fossil fuel demand. The new one is being shaped by climate targets, public pressure, clean technology and geopolitical uncertainty.

For Wales, the choice is not between jobs and the environment. It is between clinging to an energy economy that

may decline, or preparing properly for the one that comes next.

Pembrokeshire has the skills, coastline, port infrastructure and industrial experience to play a major role in that future. Floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, hydrogen, grid upgrades, marine energy and cleaner fuels could all create work here if Wales is treated as more than a place to host infrastructure.

But that will require honesty from governments and major energy companies. Communities like ours cannot be left carrying the risks while profits are taken elsewhere.

The Shell employees raising these concerns are not anti-business campaigners. Many spent decades working for the company. Some still describe Shell as a good and impressive business. That makes their intervention more powerful.

They are not shouting from the outside. They are speaking from experience.

For Pembrokeshire, the lesson is clear. Energy companies, ports, ministers and investors must be honest about transition risk. Gas and oil will not disappear overnight, but neither can anyone pretend that climate policy, public opinion and clean technology will stand still.

The future belongs to those who prepare for change early, not those who hope it will arrive late.

BADGER AND THE RUSH FOR CHANGE

Everyone wants instant change - but politics does not work that way

WE LIVE in a time in which patience is a scarce and disappearing commodity.

Two years ago, Labour won a thumping majority at a General Election, following which it had the numbers to do whatever it liked. Now, Labour is tearing itself to bits because politics is hard, solutions aren’t simple, and cynical careerists will always be cynical careerists. Apropos that last remark, Badger has a joke for his readers to consider.

A Blairite, a Brownite, a Millibandite, and a Corbynite walk into a bar. And the barman says: “Hello, Mr Burnham.”

Not much of a joke, Badger knows, but it makes a fair point.

And look at one-time Health Secretary Wes Streeting, readers. What would you say are Mr Streeting’s political principles, other than hanging around in the Cabinet briefing against the Prime Minister? He has a CV so thin that it exists only in two dimensions. But he’s good on camera and has “allies” prepared to do his dirty work in the traditional media for him.

Badger doesn’t hold any torch for Keir Starmer, but it’s worth noting that the current PM had a proper (and properly successful) career before entering parliament. His potential rivals are machine politicians. Finely burnished, for sure, but with reputations that far exceed their achievements.

Of course, Mr Burnham is not yet an MP. He must win a by-election to be eligible to get close to fulfilling his ambitions. Were Badger in the PM’s shoes, he would consider the level of his current personal unpopularity and turn up to campaign for Mr Burnham every bloody day before polling day in Makerfield, just for shits and giggles.

And, in Wales, we have a new government and a new First Minister. It’s barely a fortnight since Labour were gutted like fish at Welsh ballot boxes. The ink has hardly dried on the new MSs’ promises not to set fire to the Senedd building, and the clamour is growing for Rhun ap Iorwerth to get on with solving the systemic problems caused by twenty-seven years of Labour’s mismanagement and commitment to pursuing causes and ambitions instead of real policies.

Getting things right, from whichever perspective you adopt, takes time. It

is a myth, and a dangerous myth, that problems can be solved overnight, or even within two or three years. Look at Margaret Thatcher, readers: had the current frenetic media environment existed while she was PM, she wouldn’t have seen the end of 1981 in Number Ten, let alone win three general elections. It’s worth considering how infantile politics has become and how frenzied the desire for instant gratification is.

Real, lasting change takes time and effort. It doesn’t require continuous revolution and constant bending of the knee to broadcasters’, newspapers’, and social media’s need for 24-hour rolling news headlines. Politics has become rather like the Simpsons’ episode in which the attorney Lionel Hutz promises “surprise witness, each more surprising than the last”.

In Pembrokeshire, we also have a new leader. Tessa Hodgson beat off the challenge of Anji Tinley and has succeeded Jon Harvey as the Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council.

Frankly, Cllr Tinley dodged a bullet. The budget for the current financial year and the level of Council Tax have already been set. The scope for doing much of anything different, let alone doing anything to appeal to the electorate before next year’s

election, is slim to non-existent. Badger suspects that at least two members of the Conservative group realised that, which is why at least two of them must have voted for Cllr Hodgson in the runoff for the top job.

Suppose you are an opposition councillor with a spare brain cell. If you truly believe the current administration is unpopular with the electorate, that the love of Paul Miller is the root of all evil, or that voters are fed up with facing the financial reality of shrinking budgets and rising costs, you gain nothing by stepping in the year before an election. In fact, you end up carrying the can at the ballot box. Better to let the administration stew in its own juices than get basted in hot oil yourself.

Behind Cllr Hodgson’s squeakybum-time win over Cllr Tinley lies an uncomfortable truth for her group. Their best chance of relieving the current administration of the burden of leadership came two years ago, when Jon Harvey narrowly defeated the challenge from Conservative Group leader Cllr Di Clements.

That failure to organise and fall into line behind Di Clements cost the opposition control of Pembrokeshire County Council at a critical juncture. It might have been tactically astute not to back Cllr Clements before 2024’s

General Election, but it was strategically naive in the context of Pembrokeshire County Council’s electoral cycle. The chance for a meaningful change in direction was 2024, not 2026.

As Cllr Hodgson made clear, her Cabinet will have the same membership as her predecessor’s, save for Guy Woodham, who stepped down from the Education portfolio. That continuity, and perhaps an unwillingness to put one’s head above the parapet in an election year, means that the next holder of that post is likely to be a familiar face rather than an outsider.

The more things change, the more they stay the same, you might think. However, if Cllr Hodgson had radically changed the current Cabinet’s makeup, it would have been an admission that things have not gone as its members would wish.

Now, readers, the comparisons with national and UK politics might seem invidious and strained. However, the desire to change for change’s sake is a symptom of a lack of wider vision. As Badger has said, two years ago Labour won a large majority of seats. That majority arose not because of Labour’s innate electoral desirability but because the opposition was split in the same way as it was during the early 80s in UK politics, with Reform playing the role of the old SDP and fracturing the non-Labour vote.

Labour’s mandate to enact radical change was, in reality, illusory. There was no mandate for sweeping change because only First Past the Post gave Labour a majority, let alone a massive one. What would those now challenging Keir Starmer have done differently about issues that genuinely matter - the economy and the cost of living - or about those that matter to the electorate - immigration - than the PM? We must suppose one of them would have done nothing differently; after all, he sat in the Cabinet. for the last two years. As for Andy Burnham, if he were serious about becoming PM, he’d be an MP and not have sloped off to Greater Manchester and failed to build a single council house.

They might have done it with more pizzazz, readers, but it would have been the same diet of thin political gruel, cliches, and platitudes.

Tony Christie brings farewell show to Torch Theatre

LEGENDARY singer Tony Christie is coming to Milford Haven as part of his Great Farewell tour.

The veteran performer, best known for hits including Is This the Way to Amarillo and I Did What I Did for Maria, will appear at the Torch Theatre on Thursday, June 25, at 7:30pm.

Christie, born Anthony Fitzgerald in Yorkshire in 1943, began performing as a teenager and went on to enjoy a career spanning more than six decades.

His breakthrough came after signing with MCA Records in 1969, with the 1970s bringing huge success and more than 10 million record sales.

He later enjoyed renewed fame when Peter Kay helped introduce Amarillo to a new generation, making the song one of the best-known British pop hits of the modern era.

The Great Farewell show will celebrate Christie’s long career, taking in his classic hits and the songs that made him one of Britain’s most enduring entertainers.

A limited number of VIP packages are available, including the best seats, access to Tony’s sound check from 4:15pm to 5:00pm, a meet-and-greet with Tony and his wife Sue, and a goody bag containing a personally dedicated signed CD and 10×8 photograph.

Tickets cost £30, with VIP tickets priced at £80.

Bookings can be made at torchtheatre.co.uk or through the Box Office on 01646 695267.

Cadw

invites

families to step into West Wales history this half-term

STRATA Florida Abbey and Laugharne Castle will host family events as part of Cadw’s May halfterm programme.

FAMILIES in West Wales are being encouraged to explore historic sites on their doorstep this May half-term, with events planned at Strata Florida Abbey and Laugharne Castle.

Cadw’s programme runs from Saturday, May 23 to Sunday, May 31, with activities across Wales aimed at bringing history to life for children and families.

At Strata Florida Abbey, near Pontrhydfendigaid, a craft fayre will take place on Sunday, May 24, from 11:00am to 3:00pm, featuring local arts, crafts and produce, alongside family-friendly activities and guided tours.

Laugharne Castle will host Rainbow Gecko Bubbleman on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Bubbleman and the Bubble Faerie will perform giant bubble displays, bubble animals and frozen creations, with visitors able to join in and learn tricks.

Other West Wales events include a Children’s Activity Day at Strata Florida

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Abbey and HMS Wales Naval Living History at Laugharne Castle.

Kate Roberts, Chief Executive of Cadw said: “May half term is the perfect

chance for families to get out and explore the incredible history on their doorstep in Wales.

“This year’s programme has been designed to be hands-on, engaging and genuinely fun, giving visitors of all ages the chance to connect our nation’s

past and spend quality time together outdoors.”

Cadw said membership includes free event entry and unlimited access to more than 130 historic places across Wales, with children going free with any adult membership.

gaming

Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight delivers exactly the kind of chaotic, light-hearted superhero adventure that fans of LEGO games have come to expect, but it also manages to inject a surprising amount of atmosphere and personality into Gotham City itself. Rather than relying solely on slapstick comedy and simple puzzle solving, the game balances its humor with a genuine affection for Batman’s long history, drawing from decades of comics, animated series, and films without ever becoming weighed down by continuity or fan service. The result is a game that feels accessible to younger players while still offering enough references and character moments to entertain longtime Batman fans.

The biggest strength of the game is its presentation of Gotham as both a playground and a character in its own right. The city feels larger and more alive than in previous LEGO superhero titles, packed with hidden collectibles, absurd side missions, and constant visual jokes that reward exploration. Every district has its own mood, from neon-lit downtown streets to grim industrial docks and gothic rooftops drenched in rain. Despite the darker aesthetic implied by the title, the game never loses the playful tone that defines the LEGO franchise. Villains explode into bricks after dramatic boss battles, tense moments are undercut by physical comedy, and even Batman himself is portrayed with a self-aware seriousness that becomes part of the joke.

Combat remains simple but satisfying, focusing more on spectacle and teamwork than

technical depth. Swapping between Batman, Robin, Batgirl, Nightwing, and a huge roster of unlockable heroes and villains keeps encounters fresh, especially because each character has unique gadgets and abilities that open different routes through levels. Puzzle design is clever without becoming frustrating, encouraging experimentation with suits, vehicles, and environmental interactions. Some missions can feel slightly repetitive over longer play sessions, particularly when revisiting areas for collectibles, but the fast pacing and constant introduction of new mechanics stop the experience from becoming stale.

The story is surprisingly ambitious for a LEGO game, weaving together multiple classic Batman villains into a larger narrative about Gotham descending into orchestrated chaos. The writing understands the appeal of Batman mythology, allowing characters like Joker, Two-Face, Harley Quinn, and Scarecrow to retain their iconic personalities while still fitting naturally into the exaggerated LEGO universe. There are moments where the emotional stakes briefly rise above expectations, particularly in scenes involving Bruce Wayne’s isolation and the strain placed on the Bat-Family, but the game wisely avoids becoming overly serious. Humor remains at the core of the experience, often appearing at exactly the right moment to keep the tone balanced.

Visually, the game is one of the strongest LEGO titles to date. The lighting system gives Gotham a cinematic atmosphere while preserving the toy-like charm of

the LEGO aesthetic. Rain reflects off brick-built streets, explosions scatter hundreds of tiny pieces across the screen, and character animations are packed with expressive detail. Performance is mostly smooth, though occasional frame drops can appear during especially chaotic sequences with large numbers of enemies or destructible objects. The soundtrack also deserves praise, blending heroic orchestral themes with jazz-inspired noir elements that perfectly suit Gotham’s strange mix of darkness and absurdity.

Co-op gameplay remains one of the game’s greatest strengths. Playing with a friend transforms even simple missions into unpredictable comedy, whether through accidental sabotage, improvised teamwork, or the sheer fun of experimenting with gadgets together. The dropin, drop-out system makes cooperative play seamless, and the huge amount of unlockable content gives completionists plenty to chase long after the main campaign ends.

While it does not radically reinvent the LEGO formula, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight succeeds because it understands exactly what makes these games enjoyable. It combines accessible gameplay, affectionate humor, and a rich interpretation of Gotham City into an experience that feels consistently entertaining from beginning to end. Some repetitive mission structure and relatively shallow combat prevent it from reaching true greatness, but its charm, creativity, and love for the Batman universe make it one of the most enjoyable superhero games in the LEGO series.

THERE is something undeniably satisfying about seeing Star Wars finally embrace the cinematic scale that The Mandalorian and Grogu promises. What began as a stripped-back streaming series built on dusty western imagery and quiet character moments now looks ready to explode onto the big screen with genuine confidence, and the latest trailer makes it clear that Jon Favreau understands exactly what fans have loved about this corner of the galaxy from the beginning. Rather than trying to reinvent Star Wars yet again, the film appears determined to celebrate its mythic roots while leaning into the emotional connection between Din Djarin and Grogu, a relationship that has unexpectedly become one of the franchise’s strongest emotional anchors in recent years.

The trailer immediately sells scale in a way the Disney+ series could only hint at. Massive creature encounters, sprawling battles, bustling alien worlds and atmospheric dogfights all feel designed for cinema screens rather than living room televisions, and there is a palpable sense that Lucasfilm wants this to feel like an event rather than an extended episode of the show. The imagery has a tactile, livedin quality that recalls the original trilogy, but there is also a sleekness to the visual presentation that makes the whole thing feel far more ambitious than previous streamingera Star Wars projects. Shots of Din navigating Imperial remnants, Grogu unleashing increasingly confident Force abilities, and the return of familiar galactic chaos all suggest a film willing to embrace blockbuster spectacle without abandoning the smaller emotional beats that made

the series work in the first place. Pedro Pascal’s weary but protective Din Djarin still feels like the emotional centre of the story, even beneath the helmet, and the trailer smartly focuses on his evolving role as both warrior and surrogate father. Grogu, meanwhile, remains an incredibly difficult balancing act for Lucasfilm because the character risks becoming little more than merchandising bait, yet the footage suggests the film understands that Grogu works best when treated not simply as comic relief but as an emotionally significant figure growing into his own power. Several moments in the trailer hint at a coming-of-age arc that could finally push the character beyond adorable reactions and Force-assisted gags into something more meaningful. The recurring theme about old warriors protecting the young until the young must protect them in return gives the story an emotional weight that feels surprisingly sincere amid all the explosions and action set pieces.

What is perhaps most encouraging is that the film does not appear embarrassed to simply be fun. The trailer leans heavily into pulpy adventure energy, strange alien creatures, bounty hunters, humour and high-stakes action in a way that feels refreshingly uncomplicated after years of Star Wars projects trying to deconstruct or redefine the franchise. There are clear influences from samurai cinema, spaghetti westerns and classic adventure serials, but they are blended with enough modern blockbuster polish to make the experience feel accessible without becoming generic. Ludwig Göransson’s score also deserves particular praise because even in trailer form it captures that balance

between nostalgic Star Wars grandeur and the more intimate, lonely tone that defined The Mandalorian television series.

That said, the trailer also raises some concerns. There is a risk that the film becomes overly reliant on nostalgia and spectacle at the expense of narrative depth, something modern Star Wars has struggled with repeatedly. A few sequences look dangerously close to CGI overload, and some of the comedic beats feel engineered for audience applause rather than genuine storytelling. Early reactions have reportedly been somewhat divided, with praise aimed at the film’s entertainment value and visual ambition while criticism has focused on pacing and emotional thinness. Those worries are understandable because translating a relatively episodic streaming series into a satisfying cinematic narrative is not an easy task, especially when much of the appeal originally came from slower, quieter storytelling.

Still, based on the trailer alone, The Mandalorian and Grogu feels like the most purely crowd-pleasing Star Wars project in years. It understands that audiences want adventure, heart, memorable imagery and characters they genuinely care about, and the footage suggests the film is aiming directly for that sweet spot rather than chasing trend-driven reinvention. Whether it ultimately delivers a truly great Star Wars film remains uncertain, but the trailer succeeds in making the galaxy far, far away feel exciting again in a way that has often been missing from the franchise’s recent cinematic efforts. For the first time in a long while, Star Wars returning to cinemas actually feels like an occasion worth getting excited about.

Tech and Taff

Google puts the glasses back on

WELL now, butt, dust off your best specs and prepare to look suspicious in Tesco, because Google is having another go at smart glasses.

More than a decade after Google Glass made people look like they were auditioning to be a cyborg estate agent, the tech giant has announced a new generation

of AI-powered eyewear.

This time, instead of shouting “future!” and frightening everyone in the pub, Google says the glasses will be more discreet. They will include a small camera, tiny speakers in the arms, and Google’s Gemini AI whispering help into your ear like a very knowledgeable uncle who has swallowed the internet.

The idea is simple enough. You wear the glasses, ask questions, get directions, translate signs, take photos, or receive reminders without pulling out your phone. Hands free, head up, says Google. Which sounds lovely, until someone at the next table wonders whether you are filming their chips.

That was always the problem with Google Glass. It was not just expensive and awkward. It made everyone else feel watched. The phrase “Glasshole” did not appear by accident, mun.

Google has clearly learned something. The new versions are being designed with fashion brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, which suggests the company now understands that people do not want to walk around looking like a malfunctioning parking meter.

There will also be compatibility with Android and Apple devices, which is sensible. Nobody wants to buy glasses and then discover they only speak to half their gadgets.

But the big issue has not gone away. If a pair of glasses has a camera in it, people will worry about privacy. Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses have already sold millions,

but they have also raised concerns about people being filmed without realising it.

Still, this is where things are heading. Phones took over from desktop computers. Watches took a little slice of the phone. Now the tech companies want your face.

Used properly, smart glasses could be genuinely useful. For someone lost in Cardiff, they could quietly point the way to the station. For a tourist in Tenby, they could translate a menu. For me, they could remind me why I walked into the kitchen, which would be a major scientific breakthrough.

But Google must tread carefully. The technology may be clever, but trust is cleverer. Nobody wants a future where every conversation begins with: “Are you recording me, butt?”

So, are smart glasses the next big thing? Possibly. Are we ready for them? Maybe not quite.

But one thing is certain: if Google wants people to wear computers on their faces, the glasses had better look good, behave politely, and not make everyone in the room feel like they are starring in someone else’s livestream.

CliCk To

Untold: Liverpool’s Miracle of Istanbul revisits one of football’s most unforgettable nights with the kind of emotional intensity that makes even viewers who already know the outcome feel completely absorbed. Rather than simply retelling the 2005 Champions League final, the documentary captures the disbelief, pressure, and sheer emotional chaos surrounding Liverpool’s comeback against AC Milan, turning a famous sporting event into something that feels deeply human. The pacing is sharp throughout, balancing archival footage, crowd atmosphere, and reflective interviews without ever becoming repetitive or overly sentimental.

What makes the documentary work so well is its focus on mentality as much as football itself. The players speak candidly about fear, exhaustion, and the strange calm that emerged at halftime despite trailing 3–0.

There is a strong sense that the film understands why the match has endured for so many people beyond the result alone. It was not just a comeback; it became a story about belief, identity, and resilience. The interviews feel natural rather than staged, and the emotion from supporters and players alike gives the documentary an authenticity that elevates it above a standard sports recap.

Visually, the film does an excellent job of recreating the atmosphere of Istanbul. The crowd noise, tunnel footage, and match commentary are used carefully to build tension even for audiences who know exactly what is coming. The editing avoids overdramatizing the story because the reality of the match already carries enough weight on its own. There is also a thoughtful exploration of Liverpool’s connection with its supporters, showing how the club’s culture and spirit played a role in shaping the mythology

around the night.

While devoted football fans will appreciate the tactical details and behind-the-scenes insight, the documentary is accessible enough for casual viewers because it focuses so heavily on emotion and storytelling. Some sections could perhaps have explored AC Milan’s perspective in greater depth, but the documentary clearly chooses to tell the story through Liverpool’s lens, and it remains consistent with that approach throughout.

Overall, Untold: Liverpool’s Miracle of Istanbul succeeds because it understands that legendary sporting moments are never just about goals or trophies. They endure because of how they make people feel, and this documentary captures that feeling brilliantly. It is exciting, nostalgic, and surprisingly moving, offering a powerful reminder of why the 2005 final still stands as one of football’s greatest stories.

HOROSCOPES

advantage of.

VIRGO

They say that familiarity breeds contempt, so do yourself a favor and pretend you don’t know your friends as well as you do. What do you really think about the choices they make and are you even capable of seeing them as you would see strangers? This isn’t about judging your friends. After all, you shouldn’t be too critical of them. It’s just a way to remind yourself that the people you choose to have in your life are multifaceted and complicated.

LIBRA

While you may have scheduled a busy day full of work, errands, and chores, your mind could have a difficult time staying focused. Whether you’re distracted by an unexpectedly beautiful day, irrepressible romantic daydreams, or research for a new interest, you won’t mind the disruption in your routine. Look forward to a day full of revelations, brilliant ideas, and a good laugh or two.

SCORPIO

The world isn’t aware of all the skills you possess, so why not give people a sneak preview of a few of them today? You can use your hidden talents to entertain, persuade, and educate people, whatever you need to accomplish. Playing strictly by the rules could be a bit shortsighted. Think big and have confidence in what you can do. Just because you aren’t an expert at something doesn’t mean that you aren’t good at it.

SAGITTARIUS

Feeling tired? It’s no wonder. The pace and the hours you’ve been keeping lately aren’t conducive to staying alert and awake throughout the day. If you can’t seem to get revved up to start your day, then sleep in a little longer. If you can’t do that, then promise yourself you’ll make time for a nice nap this weekend. They say you can’t really catch up on sleep, but you need to get some more sleep in order to get back to feeling normal.

CAPRICORN

Whether you use a pen, pencil, stylus or keyboard, today is a great day for writing. Use every last bit of your creativity to make your messages more interesting and meaningful. Do not settle for trite catchphrases or metaphorical cliches right now -- instead, use vivid, precise language to accurately communicate what’s going on in your mind. Perhaps employing something like a simple rhyme or a bit of ingenious alliteration will help get your messages noticed.

AQUARIUS

A seemingly innocuous exchange early in the morning could resonate with you throughout the day, echoing endlessly whenever you have a quiet moment to think. It won’t

PISCES

West Wales among most generous areas as charity donations fall across Wales

PEOPLE in Wales donated an estimated £530 million to charity last year, down from £645 million in 2024, according to new research.

But the Charities Aid Foundation report also contains a striking west Wales finding, with Ceredigion Preseli ranked as the second most generous constituency in the country.

Residents in Ceredigion Preseli donated an average of 1.21 per cent of household income to charity, behind only Cardiff North, which topped the Welsh list at 1.32 per cent.

The constituency ranked ahead of Gower, Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Ynys Môn, Cardiff West, Monmouthshire and Caerfyrddin.

Across Wales, however, the wider picture shows a fall in charitable giving. CAF said 54 per cent of people in Wales donated to charity last year, down from 61 per cent in 2024.

The charity said household financial pressures were a major factor, with one in five people across the UK saying they do not donate because they cannot afford it.

CAF’s Local Giving Report looked at charitable giving, community engagement and local pride across every UK constituency.

It found that 35 per cent of people in Wales already engage in their local community, while 18 per cent would like more opportunities to get involved.

More than half of people in Wales, 56 per cent, said they had a sense of

local pride. In Monmouthshire, that figure rose to 70 per cent.

The report suggests that people who feel more connected to their local communities are more likely to support charities and good causes.

Mark Greer, Managing Director of the Charities Aid Foundation, said:

“Charities are at the core of our communities. Through their work up and down the country, they strengthen local areas and support those in need.

“When we are facing a sustained

trend of declining donations, part of the solution to unlocking greater giving lies in understanding the power of place and community.

“It might seem obvious, but places matter to people. This report shows that when people are engaged in a local area, they tend to give more.”

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Wales, said: “This report confirms again the generosity of people in Wales in backing the causes that are important

to them.

“Wales has a strong history of giving and philanthropy. We see reminders of it all around us in how donors and philanthropists have shaped our communities, from the miners building community halls to the people today who support our most vulnerable people.

“At a time when community groups and charities are needed more than ever, this support continues to be critically important.”

oPinion: waleS PayS for hS2 — But getS left on the Platform

THE MOST absurd aspect of HS2 is no longer just its eye-watering cost. It is the sheer scale of the broken promises — and the fact that Wales is still expected to help foot the bill while seeing almost none of the benefit.

Once hailed as a high-speed revolution connecting London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds, HS2 has shrunk dramatically. The Manchester and Leeds legs are gone. The line may run slower than planned. Euston station remains uncertain. And the first passengers may not board until the late 2030s.

When people see photographs of vast HS2 works stretching into open countryside, it is easy to understand why many now ask whether Britain has spent tens of billions building infrastructure for a railway that no longer knows where it is going.

Latest estimates put the cost at between £87.7bn and £102.7bn. Billions have already been spent on structures, junctions and works linked to routes that no longer exist. What remains is a shorter, slower, vastly more expensive project than the one sold to the public over a decade ago.

Yet Wales is still counted in the “England and Wales” project.

This is the bitterest pill. No HS2 track reaches Wales. No station serves us. No journey times from Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire or Ceredigion are transformed. Commuters on the line from Milford Haven to Cardiff still battle ageing rolling stock, unreliable services

and Victorian-era infrastructure that feels a world away from “high-speed Britain.”

The Treasury’s defence — that rail infrastructure is not devolved and HS2 benefits the wider England-andWales network — has always stretched credibility. Today, with the project scaled back, it looks untenable.

Scotland and Northern Ireland receive Barnett consequentials from HS2 spending. Wales, despite having no HS2 line, does not.

Independent estimates and repeated calls from Welsh politicians and parliamentary committees have long suggested Wales is owed billions in fair-share funding. Figures in the region of £4bn to £5bn have been cited — money that could upgrade west Wales lines, improve reliability, add capacity and modernise stations.

LOCAL REALITY CHECK

Would anyone in Pembroke Dock, Haverfordwest or Fishguard seriously claim they have gained from HS2?

When services are disrupted by signalling faults, track defects or rolling stock shortages, the idea that west Wales is already “benefiting” from a London-to-Birmingham railway rings hollow. Pembrokeshire’s rail connections remain among the most challenging in the UK, limiting economic opportunities, tourism and daily commutes.

This is not anti-rail investment. Britain needs better infrastructure. The

already had their share — while our own services lag — fuels a deeper sense of being at the back of the queue. It risks feeding cynicism about how Westminster treats Wales.

THE SOLUTION IS STRAIGHTFORWARD.

If HS2 is genuinely an England-andWales project delivering meaningful benefits here, show us the railway. If not, reclassify it and deliver the Barnett consequentials Wales is owed.

That money could fund real improvements: better frequencies on the west Wales line, electrification, station upgrades and resilience works that actually touch Pembrokeshire communities.

problem is fairness.

Successive governments talk of “levelling up” and rebalancing the economy, yet Wales consistently receives a disproportionately low share of rail enhancement spending relative to need.

At a time when HS2 has become a symbol of mismanagement for many, telling Welsh taxpayers they have

Westminster must stop pretending. Local MPs, the Welsh Government and campaigners should keep pressing this case — because transport fairness is economic fairness.

Pembrokeshire deserves better than being asked to pay into a project that delivers its rewards somewhere else.

Squawk! Wales has flown into uncharted waters

SQWAAAAARK! Well, feather me sideways and chuck me a stale chip, butt. Who saw that coming then?

Down ‘ere on Milford Docks, we gulls thought Welsh politics was as predictable as a fisherman moaning about diesel prices or a drunk fella dropping half a kebab outside the pub.

Labour in charge forever. Plaid grumbling in the corner. Tories looking confused. And somebody somewhere blaming Westminster for everything since Owain Glyndŵr lost his temper.

But nah. Wales has gone and flipped the fish basket over.

Rhun ap Iorwerth and Plaid Cymru have swooped in like a hungry gull spotting an unattended pasty on Milford Marina. Biggest party in Wales. Labour left looking like a fisherman who’s just realised the tide went out and took his boat with it.

Now, I’ve been perched on the gantry outside the Port office listening to humans chatter.

“Historic,” they says.

“A political realignment,” they says.

“A new dawn for Wales,” they says.

Steady on, butt.

I’ve lived on Milford Haven Docks long enough to know that whenever humans start talking about “new eras”, someone usually ends up arguing in committee meetings while absolutely nothing gets fixed.

Still, you can see why people have had enough.

Twenty-seven years Labour has been steering the Welsh ship. Nearly three decades. That’s longer than some dockside forklifts have survived.

Yet waiting lists are still longer than the queue at Greggs on pension day, roads still resemble bomb craters, and half the country reckons Cardiff Bay forgot west Wales exists unless election time comes around.

And Westminster?

SQWAAAAARK! Don’t get me started.

Humans over there in London treat Wales like the forgotten younger cousin at Christmas.

“Oh yes Wales, course we remembered you,” they says, while Scotland gets presents, Northern Ireland gets presents, and Wales gets told to be grateful for helping pay towards HS2, a railway we can’t even ride.

Not one inch of track in Wales, butt. Yet somehow we helps pay for it.

That’s the sort of thing that gets even a seagull flapping with rage.

Mind, Labour didn’t exactly help themselves, did they?

I nearly choked on a crab shell hearing they pushed for the new voting system thinking it would help them stay comfy, only for it to help Plaid instead.

SQWAAARK!

That’s proper dockside

comedy, that is.

Bit like building a fancy fish storage shed only to discover another gull has nicked all your catch.

Now Reform has flown into the Senedd too. And humans are whispering there’ll be chaos.

Well, as someone who watches Milford fishermen argue over absolutely everything from bait prices to parking spaces, I can confidently say: aye, probably.

Still, don’t write Wales off.

There’s something stirring, butt. You can feel it.

People are fed up of being overlooked. Fed up of hearing promises while their towns get poorer, their kids move away, and their railways never arrive.

Plaid reckons Wales is “waking up”.

Maybe.

Or maybe Wales is just finally asking a question it has not asked properly in years: why are we putting up with this?

As for Rhun, he has got the hardest job in Wales now. Running a minority government with Reform snapping at his heels, Labour licking its wounds, and Westminster likely clutching its pearls every time Cardiff asks for more powers.

Uncharted waters, they’re calling it.

Well, I knows a thing or two about rough seas.

And trust me, butt, it’s all fun and games until somebody forgets to tie the boat up properly.

SQWAAARK! Until next week, keep your chips covered.

Are Welsh pets getting the protection they deserve?

PET owners across Pembrokeshire are being urged to think about what animal welfare really means, as charities and legal experts call on the new Welsh Government to strengthen protections for animals in Wales.

This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 — the law designed to protect animals from cruelty and neglect. But campaigners say too many animals are still slipping through the cracks.

A coalition of more than sixty animal charities, lawyers and welfare experts has written to the new Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government calling for animals to be “put back at the heart” of the law.

The letter argues that weak enforcement, inconsistent legal interpretation and loopholes have allowed unnecessary suffering to continue — affecting pets, farm animals and wildlife alike.

For many local pet owners, the issue hits close to home.

The law says animals are entitled to a suitable environment, proper diet, companionship where appropriate, and the ability to express natural behaviours. Yet campaigners say many pets are still being kept in unsuitable conditions — from rabbits living alone despite being highly social animals, to reptiles kept in tanks too small to move naturally.

Concerns have also been raised about breeding practices that prioritise appearance over welfare. Some dog and cat breeds continue to suffer health problems linked to exaggerated features, despite growing awareness among vets and owners.

The Animal Law Foundation, which helped coordinate the letter, says common practice should not be mistaken for legal or ethical practice.

Its Executive Director, Edie Bowles, said the twentieth anniversary offered a chance for Wales to reassess whether the law is truly working as intended.

She argued that animals should not have to wait another two decades for the protections already promised in legislation to become reality.

The move comes as Plaid Cymru prepares a renewed Animal Health and Welfare Plan, which the party pledged in its election manifesto would improve welfare standards for both companion and farm animals.

Wales has often taken a leading role on animal welfare. Previous Welsh governments introduced CCTV in slaughterhouses and recently moved to ban greyhound racing.

But campaigners believe more can still be done — particularly around enforcement and extending protection to species that currently fall outside the law.

Some animals, including certain wild species and creatures such as crabs and lobsters, have historically received fewer protections. However, recent legal developments have begun to

challenge how those animals are treated.

For pet owners in Pembrokeshire, the message is simple: good welfare is about more than avoiding cruelty — it means making sure animals can properly thrive.

Whether it is ensuring rabbits have companions, dogs get enough stimulation and exercise, or exotic pets are kept in suitable environments, campaigners say responsible ownership starts at home.

PET’S CORNER TIP OF THE WEEK:

If you own rabbits, guinea pigs or other social animals, check whether their housing and companionship arrangements meet modern welfare advice. Many experts say loneliness can be just as harmful as poor diet or lack of exercise.

New special education centre to be built in Milford Haven

APPROVAL for a consultation for a special resource centre for pupils with complex needs when the new Milford Haven primary school is built was backed by councillors.

At the May 14 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, members were asked to back a consultation on a proposal to establish a Learning Resource Centre (LRC) for pupils with Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Complex Learning Needs at Milford Haven Community Primary School.

The establishment of an LRC forms part of the outline business case for the redevelopment of schools in Milford Haven.

A report for members said: “A Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is a classroom-based provision within a mainstream school for pupils with complex needs.

“A LRC provides pupils with a broad and balanced curriculum that is highly differentiated, to support them in achieving their full potential and at the same time offering pupils the opportunity to be part of mainstream activities and lessons to socialise with their peers whilst their individual needs are supported and met.

“Generally, LRCs are strategically located to minimise travelling time for pupils. There are currently 10 primary and five Secondary LRCs across Pembrokeshire.”

Primary LRCs in Pembrokeshire are at: Ysgol Glannau Gwaun, Waldo Williams, Fenton, Gelliswick, Monkton, Tenby, Johnston, Pembroke Dock, Neyland, and Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi.

Secondary LRC provisions are located in three areas: North Pembrokeshire –based in Ysgol Bro Gwaun, Fishguard, and Ysgol Penrhyn

Dewi, St Davids; South Pembrokeshire – based in Ysgol Harri Tudur, Pembroke, and Ysgol Greenhill, Tenby; Mid Pembrokeshire – based at the Pembrokeshire Learning Centre, Neyland.

The council resolved back in 2019 to establish a LRC at Milford Haven Secondary School, which will replace the current provision at the Pembrokeshire Learning Centre (PLC).

The report added: “Within the Strategic Outline Case for the redevelopment of the Milford Haven schools, provision has already been made for a purpose built 36-place LRC within the new

secondary school, replacing the existing provision at the PLC as part of the rolling programme.

“Establishing a 24-place LRC within the proposed primary school on the same site would further enhance local specialist provision and would deliver improved standards of accommodation for pupils with ALN through dedicated, purpose-built facilities designed in accordance with the Welsh Government’s latest area guidelines.

“Milford Haven Community Primary School represents an optimal location for the establishment of a new LRC. The school is the largest feeder to Milford Haven Secondary School and the co-location of primary and secondary provision on a single site creates a clear and coherent pathway for learners with additional learning needs.”

It went on to say the 24-place LRC would account for some £2.6m of the overall projected £143m cost of the overall Milford Haven Schools Redevelopment; the 24-place LRC would receive £316,000 of funding a year.

Approval was moved by Cllr Guy Woodham, backed by Cllr Aled Thomas, and unanimously supported by members.

Saundersfoot school praised for nurturing ethos and pupil wellbeing

SAUNDERSFOOT C.P. School has been praised by Estyn for its nurturing culture, strong staff teamwork and clear focus on pupil wellbeing.

The school received positive recognition following an inspection in March 2026, with inspectors highlighting effective leadership, high-quality support for pupils and a calm, inclusive learning environment.

The report describes Saundersfoot C.P. School as “an inclusive and nurturing

community where pupils feel valued and supported”.

Inspectors said pupils benefit from safe, calm classrooms and strong, trusting relationships with staff.

Wellbeing at the heart

Estyn praised the school’s emphasis on wellbeing, noting that leaders place pupils’ emotional and social development at the centre of school life.

The report also recognised the dedication and professionalism of staff, highlighting effective

collaboration between teachers and support staff.

Teaching assistants were described as “highly skilled”, with inspectors noting their important role in helping pupils, including those with additional learning needs, receive targeted support and make good progress.

The school was also commended for its strong culture of care, robust safeguarding arrangements and effective partnerships with parents, governors and external agencies.

Areas for development identified by the school and Estyn include outdoor learning and attendance. However, the report confirms that Saundersfoot C.P. School has a secure foundation built on positive relationships, committed staff and a wellbeingled ethos.

Headteacher Nick Allan said: “At Saundersfoot C.P. School, wellbeing is central to everything we do. We are proud that Estyn has recognised the calm, nurturing environment our staff create, where children

feel safe, confident and ready to learn.

“Strong relationships sit at the heart of our school. Knowing our pupils well as individuals enables us to support not just their academic progress, but their emotional and social development too.

“This is integral to the school’s ethos and values. I am proud to lead such a dedicated team that provides a meaningful difference to pupils’ learning and wellbeing here in Saundersfoot.”

Cllr Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language, said: “It is always immensely pleasing when one of our schools receives positive recognition from Estyn. Such recognition does not happen easily and is the culmination of months and years of hard work by everyone involved with the school.

“My thanks and congratulations therefore go to the headteacher, staff and all those who have made this success possible — well done all.”

Pembrokeshire new potato harvest begins as first crop hits shops

PEMBROKESHIRE’S

famous new potato season has officially begun, with the first crop of locally grown potatoes being harvested and delivered to shops across the county.

Farmers at Norton Farm began lifting the first Pembrokeshire new potatoes of the year this week, with the freshly harvested crop expected to reach local stores by Friday morning.

The arrival of Pembrokeshire new potatoes marks the unofficial start of the county’s summer growing season and is eagerly anticipated by shoppers keen to enjoy one of Wales’ best-loved seasonal foods.

Photographs shared by the farm show workers handpicking potatoes from freshly turned soil as machinery lifted the crop from fields overlooking the Pembrokeshire countryside.

The potatoes, prized for their distinctive flavour and soft skins, benefit from the county’s mild climate and coastal growing conditions.

Brian Llewelyn a’i Ferched shared the news on social media, telling customers: “Arriving with us this afternoon!!!!” as excitement builds around the

first deliveries. Locally grown Pembrokeshire new potatoes are expected to be available

in selected shops from around 10:00am on Friday.

For many in Pembrokeshire, the arrival of the first new

potatoes is a sign that summer is just around the corner — and that it is finally time to get the butter on.

FUW welcomes appointment of Llyr Gruffydd as Cabinet Minister

THE Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has welcomed the appointment of Llŷr Gruffydd MS as the Welsh Government’s new Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability following the recent Senedd election.

The Union has congratulated Mr Gruffydd on taking up the role at a key moment for the agriculture sector, with Welsh agriculture continuing to face significant economic, agricultural and political changes and challenges alongside significant opportunities for the future.

The FUW said it looks forward to continuing its close and constructive working relationship with Mr Gruffydd, having engaged with him regularly over many years on matters affecting farming families, food production and the wider rural economy.

The Union also paid tribute to the outgoing Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, thanking him for his engagement with the sector and recognising the importance of maintaining strong dialogue between the Welsh Government and the agricultural industry.

FUW President Ian Rickman said: “On behalf of the Farmers’ Union of Wales, I would like to warmly congratulate Llŷr Gruffydd on his appointment as Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability.

“The FUW has worked closely with Llŷr Gruffydd over many years, and we have always appreciated his understanding of the challenges facing Welsh agriculture and the importance of the sector to the social, cultural and economic fabric of Wales.

“Mr Gruffydd takes on the role at a

pivotal time for Welsh agriculture and our rural communities, and we look forward to understanding how farming and food production will be prioritised and positioned within this new portfolio, and what that will mean in policy and practical terms for the sector.

“We also look forward to continuing this constructive engagement, and working closely to ensure the delivery of manifesto commitments on key priorities including future farm support, bovine TB, on-farm regulations, and securing a thriving, sustainable future for family farms and food production in Wales.”

The Union added that the coming Senedd term would be particularly significant for Welsh agriculture, as the sector continues to navigate

policy changes, market pressures and increasing expectations around climate and environmental delivery.

The FUW stressed the importance of ensuring future agricultural policy strikes the right balance between food production, environmental ambitions and the need to maintain productive, profitable family farms across Wales.

The FUW also used the opportunity to congratulate all newly elected and returning Members of the Senedd following the election, noting the importance of strong cross-party engagement on rural and agricultural matters during the next Senedd term.

During the election campaign, the FUW undertook an extensive programme of engagement activities with candidates standing across Wales.

These included farm visits, husting events and policy briefings, providing candidates with an opportunity to hear directly from farmers and FUW representatives about the changes and challenges affecting the sector.

Key issues highlighted by the FUW during the campaign included the future of farm funding, food security, bovine TB eradication, water quality regulations and measures to support the next generation of farmers.

The FUW said it was encouraged by the level of engagement shown by candidates throughout the campaign and welcomed the opportunity to continue those conversations with Members from across the political spectrum in the new Senedd.

FUW Deputy President, Dai Miles said: “The election campaign provided an important opportunity to engage with candidates from all parties and to highlight the priorities and concerns of our members.

“We were pleased by the positive engagement we received throughout Wales and look forward to building on those relationships over the course of the new Senedd term.

“The FUW remains committed to working constructively with the Welsh Government and Members from across the chamber to secure a sustainable and thriving future for Welsh family farms and our rural communities.”

The Union added that collaboration between Government and the farming industry would be essential in addressing the challenges facing the sector while ensuring Welsh farming continues to play a central role in the nation’s economy, culture and environment.

New Narberth farmers’ market to champion Pembrokeshire produce

A NEW monthly farmers’ market is set to launch in Narberth next month, giving Pembrokeshire producers a regular space to sell and showcase food grown, reared and made in the county.

Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership is launching the market at the Queen’s Hall, Narberth, on Saturday, June 13. It will then run monthly from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

The market has been developed in collaboration with local growers Rufus and Ffion, of Hael Natural Produce, based in Clunderwen.

Organisers say it will bring together a wide range of local food and drink producers, with stalls expected to include fresh seasonal produce, artisan foods, baked goods and speciality items.

Among those taking part are Spirit Wood Wales, Big Green Elephant, Foxhill Preserves and Pencw Cheese.

Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership will lead on marketing and subsidise stall costs for the first three markets, in a bid to encourage strong

early participation and reduce barriers for small and emerging producers.

The launch will also see Rufus and Ffion introduce a new local veg box scheme through Hael Natural Produce.

Rufus said: “I’m really excited to be launching my new veg box scheme at the farmers’ market.

“It’s a great opportunity to get fresh, locally grown produce directly to people

in the community and to build something that connects people more closely with where their food comes from.”

Sue Latham, Coordinator of Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership, said: “We are looking forward to creating a regular space in Narberth that supports local producers and gives the community consistent access to high-quality, local food.

“This market is about strengthening those connections and building something that can grow over time.”

Organisers are encouraging residents, visitors and food lovers to attend the launch and support the new initiative, which forms part of Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership’s wider work to strengthen local food networks across the county.

Further information is available from Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership at www.plfp.org.uk or by emailing hello@ plfp.org.uk. Pic: Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership.

NFU Cymru Next Generation Development Group visits world-leading bioscience research centre

MEMBERS of NFU Cymru’s Next Generation Development Group have been given an insight into the exciting innovation and research taking place in Wales that could benefit farmers in the future.

The cohort visited Aberystwyth University’s Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) on Tuesday 12th May to learn how the department works with farming groups policymakers and the supply chain to dissect the challenges facing the agricultural industry and with a strong focus on applied research, working collaboratively to identify groundbreaking solutions.

Professor Alison Kingston-Smith, the Director of Research in IBERS, provided an overview of the institute’s work, particularly its focus on using the genetic diversity of crops to increase resilience and sustainability in the sector. This research has helped create IBERS high sugar ryegrasses back in the 1980s and more recently, the breeding of new winter oat varieties that have since gone on to populate over 90% of the UK market.

The group were then taken on a tour of the National Plant Phenomics Centre, where Dr Fiona Corke demonstrated how the centre uses automated growing and analysis to investigate how the genetics of plants are influenced by their environment

and treatment. This has allowed the team to identify genes which cause plants to have increased drought tolerance, yield or even increased thickness of roots that can then resist flooding and high-speed winds. Dr Hannah Vallin gave an overview of how the centre uses DNA metabarcoding to identify the best species and traits for grazing, with the potential to then develop the best forage crops that may allow for an improved livestock diet for the benefit of reducing methane output, or the ability to retain more energy from less feed. One highlight of the day for many of the group was speaking to Jason Brook, who is the centre’s lead on drone technology and designated pilot, responsible for the flight of groundbreaking drone technology.

After crossing the road to AberInnovation, the university’s cutting-edge research and development facility, Dr Hugh Bulson led the group on a tour of the biorefining and biomass conversion centre. Here, expert researchers are developing processes to create products from biomass and waste, including valuable pharmaceutical chemicals and other goods such as prebiotics and sweeteners. The group also heard about the innovative work of the Future Food Centre.

NFU Cymru members then visited Dr Marley and Dr Jones at IBERS’ new Ty Hen grassland platform, where the institute’s ongoing development of clover varieties to create a more sustainable protein source for livestock are tested in a controlledbut field scale - environment which includes livestock grazing.

To end the day, Dr David Lloyd, from Germinal, took the Next Generation Development Group to Cae Gwastad, IBERs field plots used for testing the growth and breeding of these grasses, clovers and other legumes. Here, Dr Lloyd showed how Germinal scientists have successfully managed to increase the persistence and resilience of red and white clovers

NFU Cymru Next Generation Group member Andrew Peebles said: “It’s great to see the worldleading research and development being carried out here in Wales by IBERS and to learn more about how it can be applied on farm. As the next generation of farmers, it’s vital that we embrace new innovations to improve productivity while building resilience to climate change, ensuring we can continue to produce food sustainably for the future.”

Rural crime lead addresses NFU Cymru members

Members of NFU Cymru’s Rural Affairs Board have had the opportunity to discuss the impact of criminal activity affecting farming businesses with the Welsh Government-appointed lead on wildlife and rural crime.

Rob Taylor QPM, Wales Wildlife & Rural Crime Police Co-ordinator, attended the board meeting on Tuesday 12th May to talk through his work with Wales’ four police forces and the development of the ‘Wales’ Wildlife and Rural Crime Strategy 2025-2028’.

Back in 2013, Rob Taylor was responsible for the implementation of the UK’s first rural crime team at North Wales Police and since then, he has been a leading voice on all manner of rural crime issues ranging from quad bike and livestock thefts to bird and heritage crime. Since taking on his current role in 2021, he has been instrumental in successfully bringing the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, which strengthens laws and police powers in relation to dog attacks on livestock, through the legislative process and into law.

NFU Cymru members were told about the rising problem of online fraud targeting rural communities, as well as the ongoing and significant issue of violent hare coursing incidents which are currently blighting some communities in South Wales. Mr Taylor also discussed incidents of quad bike and machinery theft and offered advice to farmers to deter thieves and keep their property safe.

In addition, Mr Taylor also explained the work he does in his role networking with rural support services, including mental health charities.

NFU Cymru Rural Affairs Board Chair, Gary Yeomans said: “We are very grateful to Rob Taylor for joining us at our meeting and elaborating on the extensive work he has conducted throughout his career to tackle thieves who target rural businesses. In particular, the board thanked him for the work he has done, alongside lobbying organisations like NFU Cymru, over the last few years to get the new laws on livestock attacks put into place. These changes grant police and courts greater powers to tackle

livestock worrying and dog attacks on farm animals, while also ensuring farmers are appropriately compensated for the losses they incur in these incidents.

“Today’s discussions with Rob Taylor have further emphasised the importance of having rural crime teams in place throughout Wales to address and stop criminal activity, such as tool and machinery thefts, dog attacks, livestock theft and illegal off-roading in rural Wales. Having dedicated officers and specialised teams who understand the issues we face is vital to ensure we can keep our local communities safe.

“This meeting also highlighted to our members how important it is to make sure they report each individual occurrence of crime or suspicious activity so police can build an accurate picture of what is happening on the ground.”

You can report rural, wildlife and heritage crime via 101 or online via your local police force’s website. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

As the dust settles following the seismic changes delivered by the Senedd election I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Farmers’ Union of Wales to congratulate Rhun ap Iorwerth on his election as First Minister. We also extend our congratulations to Llŷr Gruffydd on his appointment as Cabinet Secretary for Rural Resilience and Sustainability.

The FUW has worked closely with Llŷr Gruffydd over many years. During that time we have valued both his understanding of the challenges facing Welsh agriculture and his recognition of the sector’s vital contribution to the social, cultural and economic fabric of rural Wales.

He takes on this portfolio at a pivotal moment for Welsh farming and rural communities. Farmers across Wales continue to face significant pressures, including uncertainty around future support schemes, market volatility, rising costs and increasing environmental expectations. Against this backdrop, we look forward to engaging constructively with the new Welsh Government to understand how agriculture and food production will be prioritised within this new ministerial portfolio and what that will mean in practical and policy terms for the future of the sector.

In its election manifesto, Plaid Cymru made a number of significant commitments relating to sustainability, natural resources and rural resilience. Many of these proposals, including a multi-year funding framework for the Sustainable Farming Scheme, a revised

approach to managing bovine TB, and a more proportionate, riskbased approach to water pollution regulation align closely with longstanding FUW priorities.

We now look forward to constructive engagement on these issues, particularly as Welsh farmers continue to balance food production with increasing expectations around environmental delivery and climate action. It will be essential that future policies are practical, proportionate and developed in partnership with the industry.

It is also important to recognise that Plaid Cymru will need to work across the Senedd chamber to secure support for its programme. The FUW therefore looks forward to engaging positively with all political parties over the coming months. Furthermore, with around two thirds of Senedd Members entering the chamber for the first time, the importance of early and meaningful engagement with the agricultural sector cannot be overstated. Ensuring policymakers fully understand the realities facing farming businesses and rural communities will be crucial, and we look forward to working constructively with elected members over the coming weeks.

The key question now is whether this significant change to the electoral landscape here in Wales will translate into meaningful policy changes and enhanced outcomes for Welsh farms and rural communities. Time will tell but there is undoubtedly a mandate for change which is what the FUW will expect.

TVision BMW ALPINA: speed, refined

Revealed at the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the Vision BMW ALPINA is a design study that heralds a new chapter for a brand defined by extreme capability, sophistication, and the mastery of both performance and comfort.

“Alpina has always represented a very specific idea of performance and re finement— where speed and comfort are complementary ambitions. Our role as the new custodians of this brand is to preserve this distinctiveness and shape it for a contemporary context,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design. “Vision BMW ALPINA shows how these qualities can be expressed with discipline and modernity, suggesting what our direction is for this brand as we move it into the future.”

DESIGN AND FORM: THE SHAPE OF SPEED

The Vision BMW ALPINA is a respectful interpretation of the brand’s heritage, shaped by the most contemporary creative instincts. At 5,200 mm in length, its presence is substantial: wide, low, and confident. The coupé roofline is long and raked, its form immediately signals both speed and the ability to accommodate four adults in genuine comfort. A V8 powertrain drives the experience, tuned to produce the characteristic notes of the Alpina

exhaust: rich and deep at low speed, sonorous at high revs.

“In Vision BMW ALPINA, we distil every element of the brand to its essence and apply it in a deeply modern and sophisticated way,” says Maximilian Missoni, head of BMW Design Midsize & Luxury Cars and BMW ALPINA. “Every detail reflects substance: in engineering, in materials, and in the story it tells. The statements it makes are subtle and revealed only on a closer read. This interplay between purity and richness defines our approach to BMW ALPINA design.”

The front end is defined by powerful volumes and a forwardleaning stance that promises speed without overstatement.

The shark nose reinterprets BMW’s kidney grille as a threedimensional sculpture that leads the car’s form and frames the brand emblem with quiet confidence.

From this shark nose, the exterior is organized around a single visual axis: the speed feature line. Rising from the lower front corners at a six-degree inclination, it runs along the side of the body and wraps around the rear—assertive enough to suggest motion, controlled enough to remain refined.

HALLMARKS AND PRINCIPLES: “SECOND READ” SOPHISTICATION

Subtle secondary details reward attention without

demanding it. This “Second Read” principle runs throughout the Vision BMW ALPINA. Deco-lines have been part of Alpina’s language since 1974. For the Vision BMW ALPINA, the modernized deco-lines are distilled and painted on the side of the body beneath the clear coat—a quiet gesture that reflects how the brand’s defining details can be adapted to what comes next.

Inward-facing return surfaces are treated with particular care, finished in a dark metallic tone that rewards a closer read. This approach is inspired by the BMW 507, which uses chrome only on the inside of its kidney grilles.

The shark nose captures the same “Second Read” sophistication: the inner surfaces feature a finely scaled signature Deco-line graphic, while a concealed, softly backlit perimeter reveals it only when active.

A warm white tone characterizes the daytime running lights and traces the kidney surrounds, inspired by the first light over the Bavarian Alps. Clear-cut illuminated crystals add a precise highlight within the slender lamps.

The elliptical four-pipe exhaust remains, as does the “ALPINA” lettering—re interpreted as a machined, polished metal element on the lower front apron.

The 22-inch front and 23-inch rear wheels feature the 20-spokes design that has been a constant at Alpina since 1971.

INTERIOR AND DETAILS: ARCHITECTURAL CLARITY

The cabin is generous in every sense: space, material quality, and the care with which technology has been integrated. Architectural volumes define the layout, with each element designed as a standalone form, not absorbed into a homogeneous interior.

The six-degree speed feature line continues through the interior, dividing the darker upper segment and the lighter lower segment. Full-grain leather— sourced from producers across the Alpine region—pairs with stitching inspired by the Deco-lines.

Craft details are restrained but well considered: a bridge stitch inspired by historic steering wheel hand-stitching appears sparingly in heritage blue and green colors, while a watchmaking-inspired beveling technique was used for the metal components, combining satin and polished finishes. Clear-cut crystal is reserved for the controls that shape how the automobile drives, under lining the value BMW ALPINA places on the driving experience itself.

Behind the rear console, a glass water bottle sits beside BMW ALPINA crystal glasses that rise on a self-deploying mechanism. Each glass is engraved with 20 deco-lines and features a six-degree rim profile, held by concealed mag nets and softly lit against the open-grain center console.

1.0

BYD ATTO 2 DM-i brings plug-in hybrid powertrain to the supermini SUV segment

DUAL Mode Super Hybrid technology is becoming an evermore popular part of BYD’s product lineup, and the ATTO 2 DM-i makes the technology more attainable than ever. Following on from the SEAL U – BYD’s best-selling vehicle in the UK – the SEALION 5 joined the family at £29,995, bringing it within reach of even more customers. With the ATTO 2 DM-i, the plug-in hybrid technology is introduced to a new segment at an even lower starting price. In joining the fully electric ATTO 2 in the line-up, it grants buyers even greater flexibility in a hugely popular segment.

DESIRABLE SUV DESIGN ALLIED TO HIGH SPECIFICATION

The exterior design offers a rugged SUV look throughout the range. The Active trim comes as standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights, rainsensing wipers, electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel, fabric seat upholstery, four USB ports, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

The Boost builds on this specification with even more equipment. It’s set apart from the Active on the outside courtesy of

its 17-inch alloy wheels, aluminium roof rails, rear privacy glass and panoramic sunroof. Parking manoeuvres are made simpler thanks to front parking sensors, and electrically folding door mirrors are also included.

The Boost’s interior specification is increased with vegan leather trimming the steering wheel and seats. Cabin comfort is built upon with heating for both the steering wheel and front seats, while the seats themselves are heated. The front sun visors feature illumination for the vanity mirrors, while additional reading lights are added for rear seat passengers. An uplift in technology

introduces a 360-degree-view camera and 50W wireless smartphone charging, plus a quicker 6.6kW charger (up from the Active’s 3.3kW) and Vehicle-to-Load functionality.

GOOGLE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES ARRIVES IN ATTO 2 DM-i

The ATTO 2 EV is at the forefront of its class when it comes to interior technology, and the DM-i version advances it even further. A 12.8-inch touchscreen is equipped as standard and benefits from Google Automotive Services (GAS) built in. Google Maps becomes the proprietary navigation system, while a built-in Google Assistant and access to a wide range of apps via the Google Play store allows for a seamless user experience. As before, both Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ comes as core specification. In addition to the Active’s pair of front USB-C ports (offering speeds of 60W and 18W) and dual rear USB sockets, the Boost adds a 50W wireless charging compartment.

PLUG-IN HYBRID TECHNOLOGY BECOMES

EVEN MORE

ACCESSIBLE: ATTO 2 BRINGS DM-i TO THE SUPERMINI SUV SEGMENT

Two powertrain options will be available, both of which use BYD’s 1.5-litre Xiaoyun petrol engine, which offers a class-leading thermal efficiency of 43%. The engine acts primarily as a generator for the electric side of the powertrain, only driving the wheels directly under heavy load. The total power output varies according to trim level; the Active produces 165PS and a peak torque of 300Nm, which allows it to accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.1 seconds. The Boost increases the total power output of 212PS while maintaining the same 300Nm maximum, cutting the 0-62mph sprint to 7.5 seconds.

As ever with DM-i technology, efficiency is at the forefront of its strengths. The energy is supplied to the electric motor not only via the 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, but a 7.8kWh battery – enough to enable up to 31 miles** of driving in fully electric mode, and a total range of 577 miles*. The Boost’s battery pack, at 18kWh, offers more than double the capacity. This allows for up to 93 miles** of driving in fully electric mode, and a combined range of 621 miles – unheard of figures for the segment. The result is weighted combined fuel consumption figures of 201.7mpg for the Active and 470.8mpg for the Boost.

Elsewhere, the ATTO 2 DM-i offers much of the appeal of the ATTO 2 EV. At 4,330mm long, 1,830mm wide (excluding door mirrors) and 1.675mm tall place it at the more generously proportioned side of the supermini SUV class, which pays dividends inside with generous cabin space both front and rear. At 425 litres, the boot volume is greater than that of many larger medium-sized family hatchbacks.

Cod price crisis puts chip shops under pressure

CHIP SHOP owners in Pembrokeshire say soaring costs are forcing up prices, changing customer habits, and putting pressure on young staff facing questions from customers.

Speaking to the BBC this week, Rhys McLoughlin, co-owner of Môr Ffres in Dinas Cross, said he is installing self-service tills partly to protect staff from being put on the spot over rising prices.

Mr McLoughlin said cod, once his biggest seller, is being overtaken by cheaper options such as chicken chunks as families look for ways to keep costs down.

PRICES KEEP RISING

He said: “There are lots of questions being asked. Incoming

prices are going up and up.

“We have no control over that, so either we work for no money, or we follow the price increase and pass it on.”

The average price of takeaway fish and chips rose to £11.17 in March, compared with £6.48 in 2019.

Mr McLoughlin warned that cod prices could rise further by September, saying: “If these prices continue to go up, who’s going to buy fish and chips for £21? Who can afford that?”

STAFF UNDER PRESSURE

He said the planned digital kiosks would help manage queues in the small shop during the busy summer season, but would also reduce the pressure on young staff.

Mr McLoughlin said: “We have got young staff working here and sometimes this is their first stepping stone out of school.

“It’s no fun for a boy or girl to come to work to be asked pretty abrupt questions on the spot with 20 people in the chip shop.

“We have actually lost a few members of staff through that.”

SEASIDE FAVOURITE

In Saundersfoot, Sy Crockford, of Marina Fish & Chips, said keeping the traditional seaside meal affordable had become increasingly difficult.

He said cod alone had risen by around 50 per cent, adding: “One thing we don’t want to do is out-price fish and chips.

“It’s nostalgia, it’s romance, to come to the beach and have

fish and chips. We definitely don’t want to outprice.”

Mr Crockford said cod and haddock were becoming “a luxury, not a necessity”, and suggested more sustainable and affordable fish options may become more common on chip shop menus.

RURAL SHOPS HIT

At Cegin-24 in Crymych, owner Sioned Phillips said the price of a box of cod had risen from around £36 to between £50 and £60.

She said: “When I opened, it was £6.95 for a piece of cod. I’ve had to raise it to £9, and that’s being quite reasonable.

“If I wanted to make a normal amount of profit, it should be about £11 or £12 for a piece of cod.

“For me, in such a rural community area, to justify charging elderly people and local people so much for a piece of cod is absolutely ridiculous.”

Ms Phillips said some customers were still sticking with cod despite cheaper alternatives being offered, but were cutting back elsewhere by sharing portions of chips.

The National Federation of Fish Friers said cod price rises were linked to reduced quotas in the Barents Sea, sanctions on Russian fish, and wider cost pressures.

President Andrew Crook said many customers understood fish was a premium protein, but added that higher prices had affected visit frequency and footfall in many shops.

Banking reforms could unlock £80bn for UK businesses

NEW banking reforms could unlock up to £80 billion in additional finance for British businesses, the Treasury has said.

Ministers say changes to the UK’s ring-fencing regime will make it easier for major banks to support firms with lending, investment and financial products, while keeping protections for savers in place.

The reforms include a proposed new Growth Allowance, allowing large banks to use part of their balance sheets more flexibly to support businesses looking to expand.

Ring-fencing was introduced after the financial crisis to separate everyday banking services, such as retail and small

business deposits, from riskier investment banking activity.

The Treasury says the core protections will remain, with ring-fenced banks continuing to operate separately from investment banking arms.

Economic Secretary to the Treasury and City Minister, Rachel Blake said: “Where financial systems are inefficient, we will change them.

“These reforms will ensure more financing flows into UK businesses, and we can support growth and create jobs across the country.

“This will unlock finance for growth while keeping the UK banking system resilient, competitive and fit for the future.”

The changes are set out

in a new report, Safeguarding Stability, Enabling Growth, and will be taken forward through the forthcoming Enhancing Financial Services Bill.

The Prudential Regulation Authority will also be given more flexibility to update and tailor rules over time, rather than relying on detailed legislation.

The government says this should allow outdated requirements to be removed more quickly and help banks respond to changes in the financial system.

Banks may also be able to offer businesses a wider range of products, including improved hedging tools and greater access to programmes delivered through the British

Business Bank and the National Wealth Fund.

Alex Depledge, Entrepreneurship Advisor to the Chancellor, said the reforms would help growing firms access capital at the point they need it most.

She said: “Too often, our fastest-growing firms hit a wall of unnecessary friction just as they start to scale.

“These changes will unlock more of the capital founders need to keep building in the UK, while maintaining the financial stability that underpins investor confidence.”

The government will consult on the detail of the changes before implementation.

Bluestone’s steep ravine enters ‘new chapter’ as reopening date confirmed

BLUESTONE National Park Resort has confirmed that its muchloved Steep Ravine will reopen on Saturday, May 23, marking the return of Camp Smokey and Smokey Joe’s Shindig, alongside new zip line adventures for guests to enjoy this summer.

The award-winning 5* resort in Pembrokeshire was forced to close the Ravine in December 2024 after severe storm damage left the area unsafe. Since then, work has been underway to restore the site and ensure it can be safely enjoyed by guests once again.

When visitors return this summer, they will find a landscape that looks different to how they may remember it – a change Bluestone says reflects both the impact of the storms and a conscious decision to take a longterm, nature-led approach to its recovery.

James McNamara, Director of Product and Programme Development at Bluestone, said the reopening represents “a new chapter” for the Ravine.

“We know how special the Steep Ravine is to so many of our guests and closing it back in 2024 was not a decision we took lightly,” he said.

“The storm damage meant the area was no longer safe, so it was important that we took the time to restore the Ravine carefully and responsibly, working closely with

specialists throughout the process.

“Every step has been taken with care for the landscape and its future, while making sure guests can once again enjoy everything that makes this place so special.”

As part of the restoration work, areas of woodland affected by the storms were carefully managed to improve the long-term stability of the site. Bluestone says the landscape will continue to naturally regenerate and evolve over time.

As part of this approach, some

natural woodland material has intentionally been left within the Ravine to help support the recovery process. Over time, this will help return nutrients to the soil, encourage new plant growth and create valuable habitats for insects, birds and wildlife as the landscape regenerates naturally.

“Steep Ravine has always been about bringing people together outdoors – whether that’s around the campfire at Camp Smokey or experiencing the adventure of the

Ravine itself,” James McNamara added.

“We’re excited to welcome guests back this month and reopen a place that means so much to so many people.”

While the landscape has naturally evolved following the restoration work, Bluestone says the experience guests know and love is very much returning this summer.

Camp Smokey – the rustic outdoor dining spot at the foot of the Ravine – will once again serve lunches, BBQ feasts, drinks, marshmallow toasting around the fire and a brand-new lunch menu.

Evening entertainment also returns with Smokey Joe’s Shindig, featuring high-energy family sing-alongs, dancing and live entertainment at Camp Smokey.

Adventure seekers will also be able to experience two new guided zip line adventures.

The Summit Flight sends guests racing across the Steep Ravine on a high-speed 279m zip line experience, while the Double Glide features shorter zips designed to build confidence and excitement along the way.

“We’ve treated this special place with real care and respect,” James McNamara said. “It means a great deal to our guests and our team, and we’re proud to be reopening it in a way that keeps its spirit alive.”

Halifax could disappear from high streets after 173 years

HALIFAX could disappear from UK high streets after more than 170 years under plans being considered by Lloyds Banking Group.

The banking giant is understood to be looking at phasing out the Halifax name as part of a wider review of its brands, with Lloyds expected to become the main retail banking name in England and Wales.

If the plans go ahead, the move would mark the end of one of Britain’s bestknown financial brands, which began life in 1852 as the Halifax Permanent Benefit Building Society.

No final decision has yet been announced, but reports suggest new Halifax account openings could be stopped later this year, with existing customers gradually moved across to Lloyds.

The Herald understands that branch banking in west Wales has already been significantly reduced, with only two Halifax-branded branches currently remaining in the region — in Llanelli and Swansea.

Customers in Pembrokeshire no longer have access to a Halifax branch, with banking services instead directed

through Lloyds Bank branches, including Haverfordwest. Carmarthenshire customers are similarly directed to Lloyds Bank in Carmarthen.

The possible disappearance of Halifax comes amid continuing pressure on high street banking, with many branches already closing as more customers move to mobile and online banking.

Consumer groups have warned that the steady loss of bank branches risks leaving elderly customers, vulnerable people and small businesses without easy access to face-to-face banking. For many towns across west Wales, the loss of familiar banking names has become part of a wider decline in high street services, alongside the closure of post offices, shops and public services.

Halifax became one of the country’s biggest mortgage lenders and was for decades associated with savings, home ownership and local branch banking. It later became part of HBOS before Lloyds took over the group during the financial crisis.

A final decision on the future of the Halifax brand is expected as Lloyds sets out its next strategic plans.

Health chiefs to be questioned over Withybush hospital service changes

HEALTH BOARD

members are to be quizzed by Pembrokeshire councillors next month over changes to services at Withybush Hospital.

At the March meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, an emergency notice of motion by the council’s 11-strong Conservative Party group demanded that the Welsh Government immediately reverses the decision to cease emergency general surgery at Withybush Hospital.

Last year, Hywel Dda University Health Board consulted with its communities on options for change in critical care, dermatology, emergency general surgery, endoscopy, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, stroke, radiology and urology.

At a two-day meeting earlier this year, the board, amongst its many other decisions, backed changes into emergency general surgery which will see no emergency general surgery operations taking place at Withybush, but a strengthening of the same-day emergency care (SDEC).

At the March council meeting, the Conservative council group, led by Cllr Di Clements, proposed a motion which read: “This council requests that the Labour Welsh Government intervenes in Hywel Dda University Health Board’s recent decision to cease emergency general surgery at Withybush

hospital and immediately reverses their decision.

“We believe removing this service critically undermines the sustainability of Withybush hospital’s A&E department.

“Also, the decision by the Health Board does not take into account the impact and potential serious risks it will have on Pembrokeshire residents.”

Cllr Clements’ supporting statement, which included a call for the-then Leader Cllr Jon Harvery to write to the First Minister and Welsh Government, said Pembrokeshire residents “have seen continual downgrading of services over the years, and this has been detrimental to all residents,” adding: “We believe this recent decision is life threatening to those who need emergency surgery and a matter of

resident’s safety.”

At the meeting, Cllr Michael John said “there had been an erosion of services for many years,” supporting Cllr Clements’ call, but proposing the addition of calling on the health board to meet with councillors.

Following the request by Cllr Clements, Leader Cllr Jon Harvey agreed to any letter writing, saying he had “fought long and hard to return services to Withybush”.

Members backed Cllr Clements’ call, with Cllr John’s amendment added.

Since then an update was received at the May 14 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council.

A report for members said, following the March meeting, Cllr Harvey, wrote to the-then First Minister Eluned Morgan on

March 10, with Chief Executive Will Bramble also writing to the chief executive of Hywel Dda University Health Board advising him of council’s decision on the same date, requesting his and the Board chair’s attendance at the May council meeting.

It said, since then, Health Board Chair Dr Neil Wooding and Chief Executive Professor Phil Kloer have agreed to attend an Extraordinary Meeting of the council on June 15 to brief the council on service changes and specifically the issue of emergency general surgery, with members having the opportunity to ask questions on the presentation. Members agreed to note the report ahead of the special June meeting.

Welsh charity calls for live-saving prostate cancer screening

PROSTATE CYMRU is calling for routine prostate cancer testing as the UK Government prepares to make a final decision on whether to introduce a national screening programme.

The Welsh charity says too many men are still being diagnosed late, despite prostate cancer affecting one in eight men, one in four Black men, and one in three men with a family history of the disease.

Last year, the National Screening Committee opened a public consultation after issuing a draft recommendation against screening all men. It also did not support a targeted screening programme for Black men or those with a family history, despite their higher risk.

A final decision is expected this month.

‘EARLY DIAGNOSIS IS KEY’

Andy Thomas, chair of Prostate Cymru and a recently retired consultant urological surgeon, said early diagnosis remained crucial.

He said: “Early diagnosis is key. In Wales, the impact of prostate cancer is significant, affecting one in eight men, and one in three with a family history. Often, it doesn’t present with any symptoms, so it is essential that men get tested.

“Currently, you only get tested if you request it, or if you have a proactive GP that recommends it. But we constantly hear of men who have difficulties in getting a GP appointment, and in some cases even being refused a test.

“And what about the men who don’t think to ask for a test? We need a screening programme.”

Because of concerns about access through GP surgeries, Prostate Cymru has been running its own PSA testing events with support from commercial sponsors.

In 2025, 200 men who attended the charity’s events received a “red alert”, advising them to seek urgent medical advice. That represented almost 6% of all those tested.

Mr Thomas added: “We do what we can. But we are a charity and we simply cannot test everyone.

“The government needs to be more proactive in raising awareness among those most at risk and it needs to educate and advise GPs so that men aren’t refused tests or feel dissuaded.”

‘THIS CAN’T COME DOWN TO LUCK’

Among those now calling for change is Cardiff man Kervin Julien, a Black Caribbean man who was told two days before Christmas that he had prostate cancer.

Kervin, a Radio Cardiff presenter and Justice for Cardiff Five campaigner, has since undergone surgery and is using his experience to raise awareness, particularly among Black men.

He said: “The government is lingering on a decision that could save lives. With one in eight men getting prostate cancer, we need screening. And with one in four Black men getting it, we definitely need screening.

“Many men make excuses for certain symptoms that they might be going through, and we don’t talk about these things. And lots of men don’t even have any symptoms but still have prostate cancer.

“A screening programme would mean it wouldn’t rely on men being proactive and having to ask for a test.”

Kervin said he now wanted to campaign for screening and create greater awareness among younger Black men.

He added: “What if I hadn’t gone to the doctor? What if I hadn’t had a PSA test?”

‘WITHOUT THE TEST, I WOULD NOT HAVE KNOWN’

James Roberts, 59, from Abergele, was diagnosed with stage three prostate cancer after attending a Prostate Cymru PSA testing event in Colwyn Bay last summer.

He said he had previously approached his GP practice about a PSA test but felt dissuaded from having one.

James said: “I am stage three, so that means the cancer has spread outside the prostate but it hasn’t gone into my bones or the lymph nodes. It’s what they call advanced. Had they caught it earlier, I could have had surgery to remove it.

“Women routinely have smears and mammograms, so why are we getting left behind?

“Policy makers are arguing that it isn’t reliable, but this blood test takes five minutes and it’s a marker. It indicates whether you need further tests.

“Without Prostate Cymru and the PSA test, I wouldn’t have known anything about this and it would have ended up being stage four.”

‘IT WAS JUST LUCK’

Swansea man Dean Hopkins, also

59, was first tested by his GP in 2017 and was advised to return in three years.

But when the Covid pandemic hit, Dean struggled to get an appointment and, with no obvious symptoms, let it slide.

He later spotted an advert for a Prostate Cymru testing event while watching football in Swansea. After attending, he received a red alert and was later diagnosed with stage three prostate cancer.

Dean has undergone radiotherapy and is now receiving hormone therapy and steroid medication. He will continue to be monitored for the rest of his life.

He said: “We need a national screening programme because it was just luck that I saw an advert for the Prostate Cymru event.

“This can’t just come down to luck or whether you have a GP that takes it seriously. We all need to be screened.

“If I’d been tested in 2020, this would have been caught earlier. I feel I missed out on six or seven years, in which time my cancer was growing.”

Prostate Cymru is continuing to run testing events this summer while urging men, particularly those at higher risk, to speak to their GP about a PSA test.

Labour names Senedd spokesperson team after election defeat

INTERIM Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates has unveiled the party’s Senedd spokesperson team following its defeat in the recent election.

Mr Skates will act as interim leader of Welsh Labour and spokesperson for health, care and national security.

He said the Labour group would draw on “extensive experience” while bringing “fresh energy and ideas” to its work in opposition.

The party said its Senedd group was committed to holding the new Welsh Government to account and pushing for practical results for the people of Wales.

Jayne Bryant MS has been appointed spokesperson for housing, communities, public and preventative health, with women’s health also included in her brief.

Mike Hedges MS will cover culture, sport, local government and legislation.

Vikki Howells MS becomes Chief Whip and spokesperson for environment, farming, energy and transport. Her portfolio also includes planning.

Lynne Neagle MS has been named Business Manager and spokesperson for children, education and lifelong learning.

Shav Taj MS will cover employment, equalities and economic transformation, including social partnership.

Huw Thomas MS has been appointed spokesperson for finance, democracy, citizenship

and

Welsh

New Welsh Government urged to end ‘injustice’ of term-time only pay

SCHOOL support staff in Wales are being pushed into poverty by “unfair” term-time only contracts, UNISON Cymru has warned.

The union is calling on the new Welsh Government to scrap the practice and establish a new body to negotiate pay for school support workers.

The call will be made at the TUC Cymru Congress in Llandudno today, Tuesday (May 19), where UNISON Cymru regional secretary Jess Turner will move a motion on the issue.

She will say: “Thousands of school support staff, mainly women, are trapped in poverty because of the unfairness of term-time only pay.

“Teaching assistants, cleaners, catering staff and admin

workers support children and keep schools running, but many struggle to pay bills and have to take on second jobs just to

survive.

“One in six school support staff in Wales has used a food bank. Many earn less across the

year than they would on a fulltime minimum wage job because they’re only paid when schools are open.

“This is a real opportunity for Wales to do things differently and reward people fairly. Ministers need to set up a body that can negotiate pay for school staff and end the injustice of term-time only pay.”

UNISON says evidence gathered from school support staff across Wales shows widespread financial hardship linked to termtime only contracts.

The union will also host a fringe event at the congress on Wednesday (May 20), calling for action on term-time only pay and further investment in public services.

Council tax almost doubles since 2017

COUNCIL TAX rates in Pembrokeshire have increased by nearly 100 per cent in less than a decade councillors heard.

For the 2026 to ’27 financial year, the county council part of council tax levels in the county rose by 4.6 per cent, equivalent to an extra £76 for the average Band D property, less than half last year’s increase.

The previous year saw Pembrokeshire’s council tax increased by 9.35 per cent, lower than that year’s Cabinet recommendation of 9.85 per cent.

The previous year to that saw a 12.5 per cent rise on top of previous increases of 12.5 per cent, 9.92 per cent, five per cent, 3.75 per cent, five per cent and 7.5 per cent.

The overall council tax bill is made up of the county council element, the largest part, the

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Dyfed-Powys Police precept, and individual town or community council elements.

In a submitted question heard at Pembrokeshire County Council’s May 14 meeting, Councillor Alan Dennison asked: “Since 2017, what percentage increase has occurred for a Band D property, and what benefits have the majority of council taxpayers experienced as a result of this increase in council tax?”

Responding, Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance Efficiencies Cllr Alistair Cameron said the level of council tax for a Band D average property had increased by 95.7 per cent in that time.

He said the benefits for the majority of taxpayers were the “ongoing provision and enhancement of essential

services for some of the most vulnerable in our communities,” adding that funding in education had increased by 49 per cent and social care by 121 per cent.

Milford Haven North councillor Dennison, in a supplementary question, said feedback he received from constituents highlighted concerns at works needed on addressing “weeds reaching three feet in some areas of Milford Haven,” and an absence of dog waste bins, and “all the things associated” with the bill by council tax-payers.

“People that don’t have children don’t see the benefit of a 95 per cent increase,” he added.

Cllr Cameron responded by saying funding in the last budget had been allocated to such areas as street cleaning, adding of the areas previously highlighted by him: “The reality is a lot of the budget has to go in areas education and social care.”

Her said Pembrokeshire, with an ageing population, would see greater pressures as people got older, and it was “quite right” the council supported “the most vulnerable people”.

Alistair Cameron, in setting this year’s budget said: “The most significant cost pressure for the 2026-27 budget continues to be within social care, with a projected total increase in pressure of £12m for 2026-27 representing 42 per cent of the total council service pressures for 2026-27; and £30.5m across the remainder of the mediumterm financial plan.”

Welsh Secretary holds first call with new First Minister

Secretary Jo

held her

The call took place today, Monday (May 18), with Ms Stevens congratulating Mr ap Iorwerth on Plaid Cymru’s election results and his appointment as First Minister. The Welsh Secretary said it was important for the UK and Welsh Governments to work

BLUE VIEW

With Brian Murphy

THE Senedd election has passed, and all the votes have now been counted. We now have a completely different makeup in Y Siambr, with Plaid Cymru forming the government. The Labour stronghold in Welsh politics has been destroyed.

However, I am worried that we will not see any benefits, as Plaid will depend on Labour to prop them up, after 27 years of Plaid propping up Labour. Has anything changed?

In his first session as First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth was asked by Paul Davies if he would protect services at Bronglais and Withybush. A question that has been asked of every First Minister and every Health Minister for at least 10 years. Instead of saying that he is pleased to have the levers of power and will commit to ensuring that services are maintained, and improved, he waffled. It was a non-answer Mark Drakeford and Eluned Morgan would have been proud of. “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose!

education and the economy, and will happily give support where it will make a real difference. That doesn’t mean he will be without scrutiny. You can guarantee that the opposition parties will hold him to account.

He has already admitted that he has discussed independence with the Prime Minister during a phone call earlier this week. Why? Throughout the campaign period Plaid repeatedly said that they will not be seeking or working towards independence. It was categorically not included in their manifesto. Yet, at the first opportunity Rhun ap Iorwerth brings it into the debate. What else will he be seeking to do as First Minister that he hasn’t told us?

constructively together on shared priorities.

Those issues include the cost of living, poverty, public services, economic growth and the delivery of clean energy infrastructure in Wales.

Ms Stevens also raised the importance of collaboration on Welsh steelmaking and the transition at Port Talbot, as well as growth funds, defence and national security.

The conversation follows a call last week between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the new First Minister, during which Mr Starmer also congratulated him on his appointment.

The Prime Minister has offered to meet Mr ap Iorwerth in person in June to discuss shared issues and priorities.

In his speech he listed his priorities as “cutting waiting lists, raising standards in our schools, creating jobs, supporting businesses, tackling child poverty, helping households with the cost-of-living crisis, and standing up for Wales”. These are worthy issues to address, and I am sure my Conservative colleagues in the Senedd will be in favour of improvements in health,

Although the Conservative representation in the Senedd is not as large as I wanted it is better than many predicted. And the polls are showing that Reform’s popularity may have peaked. With the performances that Kemi Badenoch is giving in Westminster it is no surprise she is leading in all polls as the most popular and most trusted political leader.

We will be having a by-election in the next few months at Makerfield and it will be interesting to see how these polls will be able to predict a highly contested election. What we can guarantee is that there will be a lot of interest in how it plays out.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

Thursday 7th May was an election that delivered seismic change for Wales.

As expected, Welsh Labour were hammered and reduced to a rump of 9 MS’s in the new Senedd and First Minister Eluned Morgan failed to get elected here in the Ceredigion Penfro seat.

As expected, Plaid Cymru emerged as the largest party with 43 seats and Rhun ap Iorwerth has become First Minister. Leading a minority administration, he will have to work with other political groups/MS’s, to get legislation through.

Also, as expected, Reform UK Ltd came from nowhere and are the official opposition with 34 seats. Reform as ever, banged on about change for Wales. However, that change will come from Plaid Cymru, not Reform!

In the local elections in England, a week on, we have already seen many newly elected Reform councillors resign. Will we see the Reform group in the Senedd act as a united grouping, or will they be erratic in their behaviour? Time will tell.

Jess Blair, the director of Electoral Reform Society Cymru, has analysed the results to establish whether the new system was more proportional than the old one – and looked at where the Senedd should go next.

Plaid Cymru received 35.4% of the total votes cast across Wales and with 43 seats, this equates to 44.8% of the seats in the Senedd. Reform got 29.3% of the votes and now have 35.4% of the seats.

The 2 largest parties got 64.7% of the votes but hold 80.2% of the seats.

This left the smaller parties (Labour, Tories,

Greens, Liberal Democrats, Independents and others) got 35.3% of the votes, but only 19.8% of the seats.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats got 4.5% of the votes. Under true PR, it would be 4 seats, not 1.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats were squeezed as voters wanted change. 70.7% didn’t vote for Reform and voters saw the way to keep them out was to vote for Plaid Cymru.

Will the 2026 result be the pinnacle for Plaid Cymru? after they have governed for 4 years? We will see in 2030 after they have governed for 4 years.

We had a new electoral system, a form of proportional representation. A review mechanism could now be used to tweak or change the Closed List system ahead of the 2030 elections.

An alternative system, the Single Transferable Vote (STV), was the one recommended by both a panel of experts and a previous Senedd committee yet wasn’t put in place for this year’s election.

Time will tell whether MSs will vote to tweak the current system or go for the STV.

Nationally, we have seen the Labour Government enter a period of in-fighting over the future of PM Sir Keir Starmer. At a time, when the world is one accidental incident from sparking WW3, Labour start fighting each other.

Will we ditch first past the post as our (discredited) voting method for general elections and local councillors in favour of STV proportional representation where EVERY vote counts?

About time we did!

If you have any issues or comments,

at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Former Pembrokeshire council leader speaks about ‘getting on with the job’

PEMBROKESHIRE’S

former leader Cllr Jon Harvey has spoken of his two years in the role, saying it “is not about photo opportunities, and not about headlines, but getting on with the job”.

Pembroke St Mary North member Cllr Harvey became leader in May 2024, replacing Cllr David Simpson, having previously served on his Cabinet.

After Cllr Harvey’s announcement he would not continue as leader, a threeway all-women challenge was held for the leadership role, with Cllr Tessa Hodgson beating Cllr Anji Tinley by one vote to become leader.

Speaking at the AGM just before the leadership battle, Cllr Harvey outlined a record of his time as leader.

Giving thanks to his predecessor in the leader role, Cllr David Simpson, he said: “It’s been an absolutely great honour to lead the council for the past two years, building on the work of David Simpson and my time in Cabinet.”

He also thanked fellow Cabinet colleagues and staff for their “commitment and professionalism,” and his wife Sarah and friends and family,

saying: “If you do this role properly it’s 24-7; I’ve only had 10 days off in the last two years, it goes with the territory.”

He added: “As an administration We have much to be proud of, regeneration and investment of our town centres, with the Haverfordwest interchange and the ‘signature bridge’ open in Haverfordwest and the works at Haverfordwest Castle, and I’m confident of a formal announcement for retail at the old Wilko site.

“In Pembroke works are happening at important listed buildings that were left decaying pre-2017, with South Quay due to open in 2027, bringing added footfall into the town and saving on the social services budget.”

He said that while there were many naysayers to the costs of these projects, “the reality is we have secured significant amounts of grants, minimising the burden on the taxpayers”.

On education, Cllr Harvey said he was “particularly pleased with the opening of

Ysgol Penfro in 2024,” and the administration was “committed to a new secondary in Milford Haven,” adding the performance figures as a local authority for A levels and GCSEs had improved.

He said Pembrokeshire now had the third highest number of affordable housing schemes based on population in Wales, and there had been significant investment in leisure facilities, with plans for new centres in Pembroke and Milford Haven, along with a new library in Narberth.

He finished by saying: “Leadership is not about photo opportunities, and not about headlines, but getting on with the job,” adding the threeway all-women contest for his former role would “make history,” and was “something to celebrate in itself”.

Presiding member Cllr Simon Hancock described Cllr Harvey as “an exemplary leader,” adding: “We are indebted to you to a very great extent.”

A vote of thanks for Cllr Harvey was later held, with Cllr Paul Miller saying: “The county owe their thanks [to Cllr Harvey] even if the majority don’t know it; such is politics.”

£10-a-week child payment trial planned for poorest families in Wales

PLAID CYMRU’S new Welsh Government is planning a pilot scheme which could see some of the poorest families in Wales receive an extra £10 a week for young children.

The proposed Cynnal payment, meaning “maintain” in Welsh, would initially support around 15,000 children aged under six in households already receiving Universal Credit.

Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams said ministers would spend the first 100 days drawing up the scheme before launching it “as soon as possible” afterwards.

The pilot is expected to cost around £10m and would be modelled on Scotland’s child payment, which began at £10 a week and has since risen to £26.70.

Ms Williams said the Welsh Government wanted to test the impact of the payment before making the case for wider powers from Westminster.

She said: “If we needed further powers in order to roll that out beyond a pilot, then we would take the evidence that we have, evidence that is already apparent from Scotland.

“We would be able to show the impact that it’s had and then we would say we need those powers to roll it out across Wales.”

However, Reform UK’s Welsh

Dan Thomas questioned whether families would actually be better off if the UK Government deducted the money from existing benefits.

He said: “It’s completely unclear whether this move would make anybody better off.

“If Westminster deducts the amount from other benefits, this project would use up a substantial amount of

Welsh Government resources with no benefit to working people.

“Benefits claimants are not guinea pigs and should not be used as pawns in Plaid’s funding battles with Westminster.”

The policy was outlined as First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth unveiled the first solely Plaid Cymru Welsh Government.

Plaid has also pledged to work

towards a national care service, free at the point of use, although Mr ap Iorwerth said financial pressures meant that could not happen immediately.

The party also wants to expand childcare to every child aged nine months to four years, for 20 hours a week, but Mr ap Iorwerth said around 1,000 more childcare workers would be needed to deliver the plan.

Pembrokeshire elects first ever woman leader after three-way challenge

HISTORY has been made at Pembrokeshire County Council with the election of its first-ever woman leader, Tessa Hodgson, following a three-way battle at today’s May 15 AGM for the top job.

At Pembrokeshire County Council’s annual council meeting of May 15, an all-women battle to be the leader of Pembrokeshire County Council took place.

The leader of the council is elected every two years under the council’s constitution, and leader Cllr Jon Harvey had decided not to stand for re-election.

Pembroke St Mary North member Cllr Harvey became leader in May 2024 after narrowly beating fellow leadership hopeful Conservative group leader Di Clements by 30 votes to 27.

Cllr Harvey replaced Cllr David Simpson as leader.

Following his decision to step down, Cllr Harvey said: “It has been a fantastic two years, a real honour and privilege to lead the council, working with a talented and committed cabinet.

“After much thought and reflection, I feel now is the right time to make way for someone else to lead the council through the next 12 months to the local government elections in May 2027.”

Three nominations were received for the leadership battle: Conservative Group Leader Cllr Di Clements, unaffiliated member and current Cabinet

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Member for Adult Social Care Cllr Tessa Hodgson, and Leader of the Independent Group Cllr Anji Tinley.

Cllr Harvey had backed Cllr Hodgson for the top job.

he May 2026 leadership role will be held for one year, ahead of the 2027 council elections where the 2026 incumbent may, or may not, keep the role.

Two secret ballots were held, with 30 votes out of the 59 members present needed to secure a win.

During the first round, Cllr Hodgson gained 28 votes, Cllr Tinley 20, and Clements 11, Cllr Clements being eliminated for the second round.

That round saw Cllr Hodgson triumph by one vote: 30 to Cllr Tinley’s 29.

Accepting the role, Cllr Hodgson spoke of her “immense honour” to accept and being “part of history in the making as Pembrokeshire has its first ever female leader”.

Cllr Hodgson thanked her fellow leadership hopefuls for their “fair and honourable” challenge for the top job.

She also paid tribute to her colleagues and to, poignantly, her mother and late father, Cllr Viv Stoddart and former councillor Mike Stoddart for “their long record of public service,” and for their

“always fair and unwavering support and guidance”.

Cllr Hodgeson has not yet announced her new Cabinet portfolios, the Cabinet remaining unchanged for now other than a vacancy following the news Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language Cllr Guy Woodham is to step down from his role.

The AGM also saw Cllr Delme Harries unanimously elected as council chair for the forthcoming year, replacing Cllr Maureen Bowen, and Cllr Nick Neumann elected as Deputy Presiding Member/Vice-Chair, beating Cllr Bethan Price by 34 votes to 24.

Cllr Simon Hancock will continue to serve as Presiding Member.

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The week!

ONGOING PROBLEMS AT THE SILVERDALE

DEAR SIR,

I was deeply disturbed to read about the latest serious incident at Silverdale Lodge involving armed police, allegations of racial abuse, threats, criminal damage and a man barricading himself inside a room.

What makes this even more alarming is that this is clearly not an isolated incident.

People in Johnston have been raising concerns about Silverdale for years, and many local residents now feel they were ignored, dismissed or branded as heartless whenever they dared to speak out.

Back in 2020, your newspaper reported that villagers were already describing themselves as “frightened for their lives” after repeated police incidents at the lodge. Residents complained about anti-social behaviour, intimidation, drunken disorder, threats and suspected drugrelated activity linked to some occupants.

At the time, over 500 people signed a petition raising concerns about the situation. Local people said they were avoiding cycle paths and beauty spots because they no longer felt safe. Police emails obtained by the media even confirmed that action had

in local authorities completely collapses.

Perhaps it is finally time for Pembrokeshire County Council, housing agencies, police and Welsh Government officials to stop pretending these are isolated incidents and start being honest with the public about whether Silverdale Lodge is actually suitable for this kind of accommodation at all.

Barry Ellis Pembrokeshire

RUSSIA OFF THE HOOK

DEAR SIR,

I am appalled that Britain is now preparing to allow imports of diesel and jet fuel made from Russian crude oil.

to another country, refined into diesel or aviation fuel, and then sold on to the UK.

That is not a serious sanctions regime. It is a back door.

The timing is especially troubling. Ukraine is still under attack, civilians are still dying, and Britain has repeatedly claimed to be one of Kyiv’s strongest allies. What message does it send when we say one thing in public, then quietly allow fuel linked to Russian crude back into the country?

Ministers argue that the wider sanctions package is tougher overall, and that the exemption will be reviewed. But the public deserves more than technical notices and reassurances. If money from these fuel sales can still reach Russia, then the policy risks weakening the very pressure sanctions were supposed to create.

been taken against certain individuals and that some had been banned from the site.

Then in 2021 there was another major police response after threats to kill were allegedly made at the lodge.

Now, in 2026, we have armed officers attending once again after allegations of racial abuse and aggressive behaviour.

At what point do the authorities finally admit there is a serious ongoing problem?

Let me be absolutely clear. Most people in Pembrokeshire have sympathy for genuinely vulnerable people who are homeless or struggling. Nobody wants to see people abandoned or left on the streets.

But there is a world of difference between helping vulnerable people and allowing communities to repeatedly suffer intimidation, fear and disorder.

Ordinary working people in Johnston should not have to accept armed police operations, threats, abuse and repeated antisocial behaviour as some sort of “new normal.” Staff working at these facilities also deserve protection and should never have to endure racial abuse or fear violence while simply doing their jobs.

The real frustration is that every time concerns are raised, officials seem more interested in managing public relations than confronting the underlying issue honestly.

Communities can only absorb so much before confidence

The Government says this is only a temporary, targeted measure, brought in because of pressure on fuel supplies and prices. But to most ordinary people it looks like a sanctions loophole dressed up as pragmatism.

We were told that Britain would stand firm with Ukraine and cut off the money flowing into Putin’s war machine. Yet Russian oil can apparently be shipped

People in this country have already endured high energy prices. Ukrainian families have endured far worse. It is morally wrong for Britain to import fuel derived from Russian oil while claiming to oppose Russian aggression.

The Government should close this loophole immediately and make clear that diesel and jet fuel made from Russian crude have no place in the UK market.

David Spencer

SWYDD ASESWR FFERM

De-orllewin Cymru

Mae Ardystiad Bwyd Cymreig o Ansawdd Cyf (QWFC Ltd) yn recriwtio Aseswr Fferm i gynnal asesiadau fferm ar gyfer:

• Cynllun Gwarant Fferm (FAWL) a

• Chynllun Llaeth y Tractor Coch

Mae hwn yn gyfle ardderchog i unigolyn sydd â phrofiad amaethyddol ymarferol a dealltwriaeth gref o sectorau da byw a llaeth Cymru.

Bydd y rôl yn cynnwys cynnal asesiadau ledled De-orllewin Cymru, gan gynnwys: Sir Benfro, Sir Gaerfyrddin a Cheredigion.

Hanfodol

 Addysg i Lefel NVQ 3 neu’n uwch mewn

Amaethyddiaeth, neu bwnc cysylltiedig

 Wedi cael profiad ar y fferm yn rheoli Uned biff a defaid neu Llaeth

 Dal trwydded yrru lawn yn y DU

Dymunol

 Bod yn hyddysg mewn cyfrifiadura ac yn hyderus wrth ddefnyddio systemau digidol

 Gallu cyfathrebu’n effeithiol yn y Gymraeg a’r Saesneg

 Dangos sgiliau trefnu a rhyngbersonol cryf

Rhoddir ystyriaeth i ymgeiswyr ar sail hunan gyflogedig a chyflogedig. Yn llawn amser neu ran amser.

Dyddiad cau: 12 Mehefin 2026

Am fanylion pellach a ffurflen gais: 01970 636 688

info@wlbp.co.uk

www.wlbp.co.uk

www.fawl.co.uk

FARM ASSESSOR

South West Wales

Quality Welsh Food Certification (QWFC) is seeking to recruit a Farm Assessor to undertake farm assessments for:

• Farm Assured Welsh Livestock Scheme (FAWL) &

• Red Tractor Dairy Assurance Scheme.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual with practical agricultural experience and a strong understanding of livestock and dairy sectors.

The role will involve carrying out assessments across South-West Wales, including: Pembrokeshire Carmarthenshire & Ceredigion.

Essential

 Hold an NVQ Level 3 qualification in Agriculture or a related subject (or higher)

 Have practical experience in the management of Beef and Sheep enterprises, and/or Dairy units

 Hold a full UK driving licence

Desirable

 Be computer literate and confident using digital systems

 Be able to communicate effectively in both Welsh and English

 Demonstrate strong organisational and interpersonal skills

Applications are welcomed from candidates seeking either: Self-employed contract work, or employed positions. Full or part time.

Closing date: 12 June 2026

For further details and application form: 01970 636 688 info@wlbp.co.uk www.wlbp.co.uk www.fawl.co.uk

death notices

J ILL L ESLEY B RUCE

J ILL passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Monday 4th May aged 78 years. She will be very much missed by all who knew her.

Funeral Service, Friday 29th May, 1pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Flowers welcome from all.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

B RIAN J OHN R EYNOLDS

B RIAN of Merlin’s Bridge, passed away peacefully on Sunday 3rd May 2026, at home

surrounded by his family, aged 74.

A dearly loved Husband to his Wife Melanie, Dad to Clare and Brother to Diane and Stephen. Brian will be greatly missed by all his friends and family.

The funeral will take place at Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven on Tuesday 26th May at 2 pm, followed by interment at City Road Cemetery.

There will be family flowers only.

Donations, if desired, can be made to Paul Satori via the following link https://brianreynolds1.muchloved.com

Enquiries to Tom Newings & Sons Funeral Directors, Milford Haven 01646 693180.

F LORENCE A NITA PARRY

A NITA died at Ty-Enfys Care Home, Cardiff on Thursday 7th May 2026.

Loving wife of the late Eryl and devoted mother of Wyn and Robyn. She will be missed by all who knew her.

The Funeral service will take place on Wednesday 27th May 10:45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only.

All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

A NTHONY ‘T ONY ’ DAVIES

TONY passed away peacefully at Parc Y Llyn Nursing Home on 4th May 2026 aged 82 years.

Dearly loved Husband to Gillian, Dad to Kevin and Gramps to Morgan, he will truly be missed by his Family and Friends.

His funeral service will take place on Monday 1st June 2026, 11.00am at Walton East Church.

Family flowers only.

Donations, in lieu of flowers for the Church can be made via the donation box provided on the day.

All enquiries to Roy Folland &

Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

H ILDA H UDDLESTON ( N é E D EAN )

H ILDA passed away on 2nd May at Llandough hospital in Cardiff. She is survived by Susan, her sister, brother in law Richard and nephews Dylan and Jonathan and their families. Hilda trained as a nurse in 1971 and worked at Withybush hospital until her retirement in 2007. She lived in Haverfordwest till 2025 when she moved to a care home in Cardiff.

Service at Thornhill Crematorium Cardiff 11am June 2nd.

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRY

SCRAP METAL

SCAFFOLDING

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VEHICLE RECOVERY

WINDOWS

TNarberth youngsters impress in busy day of cricket

NARBERTH Cricket Club’s junior sides enjoyed a strong day of performances, with the under-15s recording a convincing win and the under-14 girls pushing Cresselly all the way in a close contest.

The under-15s defeated St Ishmaels after posting 120-7, before bowling their opponents out for 54.

Narberth’s under-14 girls were also in action, producing an excellent effort against a talented Cresselly side.

In an eight-a-side, 16-over match, Narberth made 83-5 before Cresselly reached 84-4 to edge the contest.

Mia Phillips top-scored for Narberth with an unbeaten 22, while Sylvie Dunlop made 7 not out. The pair also shared a 50 partnership.

Leah Lewis contributed 18 with the bat and took 1-4 with the ball, while Tia Blewitt produced an excellent spell, taking 3-3.

Despite the narrow defeat, the performance underlined the strength of girls’ cricket at Narberth and the progress being made by the club’s young players.

Local insurance brokers help raise over £1,300 for Bluebirds Foundation

THE HAVERFORDWEST

County AFC Bluebirds Foundation is celebrating a £1,300 boost this month thanks to local insurance brokers Lloyd & Whyte Community Broking.

A recent fundraising day raised £653.64, which was fund matched by the insurance broker’s parent company, the Benefact Group, doubling the amount to over £1,300.

Lloyd & Whyte Community Broking St Clears are sponsors of Haverfordwest County AFC which includes supporting the charitable arm of the club, Bluebirds Foundation. The Foundation focuses on the prevention of poverty and strengthens the bond between the football club and local people, including launching junior supporter clubs and community brunch clubs.

sHarry Thomas, aTrustee at Bluebirds Foundation said: “We are extremely grateful to Lloyd & Whyte for further enhancing the funds raised at our Foundation Fundraiser, held at the Ogi Bridge Meadow in collaboration with

Haverfordwest County AFC and we look forward to working closely with Lloyd & White again at future events.”

Leyla Phillips stated: “Events like this show what community is all about. I think it’s great what the Bluebirds foundation are doing locally for Pembrokeshire, and it was a pleasure to be a part of it.

Being part of Lloyd & Whyte Community Broking and the Benefact Group made it even more special as we are proud to match all funds that were raised on the day which I’m sure will be a nice addition for the foundation, to enable them to carry on doing great initiatives within our community.’’

The funday event saw

bouncy castles, cake stands, a raffle, shirt swap stand, kick-up competitions, and inflatable goal, alongside the normal match day activities, all providing hours of fun for spectators and supporters. And to top it all, Haverfordwest County AFC won 6-0 on the day against Llanelli Town AFC.

Vikings make history with cup final win

HAKIN UNITED have made Pembrokeshire football history after retaining the West Wales Intermediate Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Penlan at the Swansea. com Stadium.

Ashley Bevan’s first-half goal proved decisive on Thursday evening as Scott Davies’ side became the first Pembrokeshire team to win the competition in back-to-back seasons.

It was another memorable night for the Vikings, who have now reached three finals in four years and added the cup to their league success to complete an outstanding double.

Penlan began strongly, with Kyle Hughes seeing a deflected effort drift narrowly wide before Kieran Jenkins curled a shot into the arms of Hakin goalkeeper Rory Williams.

Williams was called into action again after a defensive mistake allowed Jenkins a sight of goal, while at the other end Jack Britton was unable to generate enough power on a header inside the area.

Hakin grew into the contest, with Camron Thomas and Bevan both seeing efforts blocked following a halfcleared corner.

Williams then produced one of the key moments of the match, racing from his area to make a perfectly-timed sliding challenge as Penlan threatened to break through.

Ben Aldred went close with a rising 25-yard strike which flew over the bar,

before the game became increasingly scrappy, with Britton and Jordan Kilby both booked for late challenges.

The breakthrough came in the 34th minute. Shane Walsh made ground down the left and squared the ball across the area for Bevan, who slid in to finish and give Hakin a 1-0 half-time lead.

There was a brief delay after the interval while the stadium lights were switched on, before Penlan pushed for an equaliser.

Dylyn Perkins had a shot blocked by Britton, while Bevan remained a constant threat for Hakin and later fired

over after Kieran King’s cross was only partly cleared.

Hakin suffered a blow when Aldred landed awkwardly after clearing a dangerous Perkins free-kick and was forced off. Craig Nicholson came on and slotted into a solid defensive line alongside Jay Power, King and the impressive Camron Thomas.

Penlan defender Jack Jenkins was booked for bringing down Bevan from behind, while Hakin substitute Liam Parks almost added a second when he latched onto a through ball over goalkeeper Luke Davies, only to lose his footing at the vital moment.

Parks later cut the ball back for Mason Dolling, whose low effort flashed just wide.

Penlan’s hopes suffered a late setback when substitute Anthony Finselbach was shown a straight red card by referee Ben Williams for a challenge on Matthew Broome.

At the final whistle, Hakin’s players and supporters celebrated a famous victory.

The Vikings have now won the West Wales Intermediate Cup five times and sit third on the all-time winners’ list, behind West End and Ragged School, who have lifted the trophy seven times each.

Penlan: Luke Davies, Jenson Lorey, Corey Young (Jaye Tebay 89), Liam Logan (captain), Jack Jenkins, Jamie James, Kyle Hughes, Navan Green (Anthony Finselbach 76), Thomas Davies, Kieran Jenkins, Dylan Perkins (Jayden Blackmore 76).

Substitutes not used: Robert Shannon, Kian Finselbach.

Hakin United: Rory Williams, Kieran King, Camron Thomas, Ben Aldred (Craig Nicholson 70), Jay Power, Jack Britton, Cameron Brunton (Mason Dolling 59), Jordan Kilby (Mark Jones 90), Ashley Bevan (Liam Parks 74), Ryan Wilson (captain), Shane Walsh (Matthew Broome 83).

Referee: Ben Williams.

Assistants: Cilan Thomas and Nick Pryor.

Fourth official: Kevin Price.

Helen Ward joins football poem ahead of Euro 2028

FORMER Cymru international

Helen Ward has joined comedian and football fan Frank Skinner in a new spoken-word football poem celebrating Welsh fandom ahead of UEFA Euro 2028.

The fan-inspired project, launched by BT Group, also features former footballers Izzy Christiansen, Rachel Corsie and Keith Gillespie, and aims to capture the passion, pride and matchday rituals of supporters across the UK.

The campaign comes as Cardiff prepares to host matches during Euro 2028, with Wales set to play a major role in the tournament. Research commissioned by BT found that 72 per cent of people in Wales are already excited for Euro 2028, while 62 per cent said major tournaments have a big impact on Welsh culture, identity and mood.

Ward said representing Cymru had always been about “identity, pride, and the bond we share as a nation,” adding that the support of fans and communities had driven her throughout her career.

Narberth hosts successful girls’ cricket festival

YOUNG cricketers from across west Wales took part in a successful under-10s girls’ cricket festival hosted by Narberth Cricket Club on Sunday.

Teams from Whitland, Pembroke Dock, Neyland, Llangennech and Pembroke joined the host side for a day of cricket which highlighted the growing strength of the girls’ game in the region.

Organisers said all teams showed excellent teamwork, enthusiasm and sportsmanship throughout the festival.

Thanks were also given to Narberth coach Ceri Davies, whose organisation helped ensure the day was a success.

Pembrokeshire Triathlon Club to hold next time trial event

MEMBERS of Pembrokeshire Triathlon Club are being encouraged to take part in the club’s next Time Trial Series event.

The 20km bike time trial will take place at Herbrandston, next to the old school, on Sunday, May 17, starting at 8:15am.

The club says the event is open to members of all abilities, whether they are chasing a personal best, building confidence, or simply looking to take part in a friendly club event.

Those wishing to enter are asked to book their place through the Connect My Club app.

Parking at the start is limited, so members are being encouraged to car share where possible or allow extra time before the event.

Rain halts most action as Pembs cricket battles the weather

THE WEAETHER won the battle across much of Pembrokeshire cricket on Saturday (May 16), with abandoned matches dominating the fourth week of the Pembroke County Cricket League season.

Only a small number of fixtures reached a result, although there were still impressive individual performances and significant movement in the league tables.

DIVISION 1: CAREW STAY TOP DESPITE WASHOUT

Rain interrupted almost every match in Division 1, with no full fixtures completed.

Carew remain top of the table after taking four points from their abandoned clash with Whitland, while Saundersfoot and Neyland continue to keep the pressure on.

DIVISION 2: HAVERFORDWEST CRUISE TO NINE-WICKET WIN

The only completed match in Division 2 saw Haverfordwest ease to a nine-wicket victory over Llangwm.

Chris Phillips starred with both bat and ball, taking 4-36 before smashing 71 as Haverfordwest chased 142 with ease.

DIVISION 3: LAUGHARNE IMPRESS BEFORE RAIN ARRIVES

Laugharne looked in control at Kilgetty thanks to an unbeaten 61 from Matt Tait before the weather intervened. Elsewhere, Burton II made a strong start against Haverfordwest II, reaching 43 without loss before rain stopped play.

DIVISION 4: NARBERTH II EARN BIGGEST WIN OF THE DAY

Narberth II secured one of the weekend’s few completed victories with a 42-run win over Llechryd II. Ceri Davies smashed 76 while Richard Howell starred with the ball, taking 4-12.

Crymych also impressed before rain halted play against Lawrenny II, reaching 146-3 thanks to Rhys Davies’ unbeaten 73.

DIVISION 5: WHITLAND II PILE ON THE RUNS

Whitland II posted the highest score of the weekend, smashing 256-2 before rain ended play against Llanrhian II. Steffan Lee (61*) and Matt Driver (67*) were in fine form.

Llechryd III also impressed, reaching 160-4 thanks to Andrew Davies’ unbeaten 69.

DIVISION 6: WHITLAND III ROMP HOME

Whitland III claimed the most emphatic result of the weekend, skittling Kilgetty II for just 17 before knocking off the target for the loss of one wicket.

Ben Rodea (3-8) and Sion Benjamin (2-8) starred with the ball.

Haverfordwest/Cresselly also picked up a valuable seven-wicket win over Laugharne II

Despite the weather chaos, the early league tables are beginning to take shape, with Carew, Johnston, Kilgetty, Narberth II, Cresselly III and Whitland III all setting the early pace in their respective divisions.

Thomas c arroll Pembrokeshire league Table

Fixtures 23rd May

Divison 1

Herbrandston v Cresselly

Lawrenny v St Ishmaels

Narberth v Carew

Neyland v Burton

Whitland v Saundersfoot

Divison

2

Cresselly II v Pembroke

Fishguard v Llangwm

Haverfordwest v Johnston

Llanrhian v Pembroke Dock

Llechryd v Hook

Divison

3

Burton II v Hundleton

Carew II v Kilgetty

Lamphey v Laugharne

Pembroke II v Haverfordwest II

Saundersfoot II v Stackpole

Divison

4

Carew III v Narberth II

Crymych v Llechryd II

Haverfordwest III v Herbrandston II

Hook II v Lawrenny II

St Ishmaels II v Neyland II

Divison

5

Hundleton II v Cresselly III

Llangwm II v Llanrhian II

Pembroke Dock II v Whitland II

Divison

6

H’west-Cresselly v Neyland III

Kilgetty II v Haverfordwest IV

Laugharne II v Whitland III

Narberth youngsters impress in busy day of cricket• P80