News

Storms uncover ancient forest

Published

11 years ago

January 23, 2014

A FOREST frequented by hunter gatherers up to 10,000 years ago has been uncovered during storms at Newgale in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Archaeologists from the National Park Authority have been working with colleagues from Pembrokeshire County Council to protect the remains of the forest as part of the clean-up operation.

Storms battered the Pembrokeshire Coast last week and Newgale was one of the most badly affected parts of the National Park.

The pebble bank sea defence was pushed back across the road, making it impassable, but when the stormy weather had died down, the forest remains were revealed on the beach.

The National Park Authority’s Culture and Heritage Manager Phil Bennett said: “We’ve known of the existence of this forest for many years but I, for one, have never seen it so close to the road.

“The storms and high seas have pushed the pebble bank back and scoured the sand, exposing the remains of this woodland. We have been able to identify some recognizable timbers from the Mesolithic period.

“Ten thousand years ago this woodland area would have been visited by hunter gatherer bands from time to time, looking for game and collecting edible plants, nuts and berries as these resources became available during the year.”

Pembrokeshire County Council officers have been working to clear away the debris after the storms and reopen the only road through Newgale.

National Park Archaeologist Pete Crane visited the site during the clean up to advise the council as they restored the pebble bank on top of the extremely fragile remains.

The Council are covering the most vulnerable parts of the submerged forests with pebbles to preserve them, as extended exposure to the sun will dry them out and they will be lost.

Phil added: “It’s really important that people are aware of how fragile these remains are and understand that unless we protect them they will be gone forever.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

20 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.