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Live weather updates across Pembrokeshire

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WINDS of up to 80mph are expected to batter Pembrokeshire and cause ‘significant impact’ as Storm Ophelia hits later today (Oct 16).

7pm – Cleddau Bridge open to cars

It is still closed to high-sided vehicles.

6:01pm – Lock gate floating in Milford Haven Port

“As a result of the severe weather today – with winds gusting up to 87mph at the entrance to the Port – we have suffered some infrastructure damage to one of the lock gates in Milford Marina. One of the mitre gates, which are the first gates you come to when entering the lock at Milford Marina, has broken off its hinges and is currently floating in the lock. As soon as the weather improves we will be making efforts to secure it.”

5:31pm – Warning to stay away from Newgale

Authorities have asked that people do not attempt to walk or drive through Newgale.

5:22pm – Reports of heavy traffic at Carew

Expect long delays as traffic is diverted from the Cleddau Bridge.

5:01pm – Trees down and power cuts across county

Tree down in road near Picton Castle towards Millin
Tree down llanycefn between Nant y Cwn School & Five ways junction
Tree down in road between Hasguard Cross and Talbenny near Greenacres
Trees down on road through Stackpole Woods
Western Power showing 9 power ‘incidents’ in Pembs & 341 properties affected

4:40pm – Newgale closed

A487 expected to be closed at Newgale for some time due to water and shingle on the road. High tide not due for another 30 minutes.

The trees that were down on the A487 between Mathry and Square and Compass and another near Castlemorris Feeds between Letterston and Castlemorris have been cleared so the Newgale diversion route is currently clear.

Western Power showing five power ‘incidents’ in Pembrokeshire and 371 properties affected.

Trees down in the following locations:

• Stokes Avenue, Haverfordwest
• Rhoose Ferry Road, Burton
• tree partially blocking road at Castle Lane, Carew.

3:40pm – Reports of tiles flying off roofs

Reported cases in Pembroke, Pembroke Dock, Tenby and Neyland.

3:10pm – Update from Pembrokeshire County Council

Cleddau Bridge now closed to all traffic. Road crews at Carew Bridge to assist diverted traffic.

Western Power showing 4 power ‘incidents’ in Pembs with a total of 600 properties affected.

Power line blocking road between Sardis and Hill Mountain. Road closure requested by police. Western power en route

Tree down (not on road) at Honeyborough Green, Neyland
Tree down blocking pathway at the Millpond, Pembroke
Tree down blocking road outside Herbranston Haall, Herbranston
Tree down on road between Strumble Head and Goodwick, exact location unconfirmed
Tree partially blocking road between Crundale & Clarbeston road
Tree blocking road at Milletts Hill, Cosheston
Tree blocking road Spittal Tunnel towards Spittal
Tree blocking road in Rectory Road, Llangwm
Tree down blocking both lanes of the A487 St Davids – Fishguard road between Mathry and square & Compass
Tree down blocking minor road near junction with B4313 at Brynconin, Llandissilio
Tree down Scarrowscant Lane, Haverfordwest (not on road)
Tree down B4374 between Princess Gate and Tavernspite

Large section of roof from a 3 storey building at Ocean drive, Pennar

Tiles being blown off buildings in Nelson Street, Pennar, also Stranraer Road and Gays Lane Pennar

All Day Centres and Social Activity Centres closed.

All schools in Pembrokeshire closed.

The high tide this afternoon is approx. 16:50. Flood warnings are in place for the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Flood gates at Little Haven have been closed.
Crews will be monitoring Newgale where there is concern about water penetrating the shingle bank and possibly throwing pebbles onto the road.

Other beaches also being monitored.

Reports of numerous Portugese Men of War washed up on beaches in the South of the County – public advised not to touch.

2:30pm – Cleddau Bridge closed to ALL vehicles

Avoid area if possible.

2:22pm – Update from Pembrokeshire County Council

Approx 200 properties without power in the Eglwyswrw area, including the school which has had to close.

Tree partially blocking road between Crundale & Clarbeston road
Tree blocking road at Milletts Hill, Cosheston
Tree blocking road Spittal Tunnel towards Spittal
Tree down blocking both lanes of the A487 St Davids – Fishguard road between Mathry and square & Compass
One tree down blocking minor road near junction with B4313 at Brynconin, Llandissilio
Tree down Scarrowscant Lane, Haverfordwest (not on road)
Tree down B4374 between Princess Gate and Tavernspite
Tiles being blown off buildings in Nelson Street, Pennar

All Day Centres and Social Activity Centres closed.

All schools in Pembrokeshire closed.

Cleddau Bridge now closed to high sided vehicles. Wind direction still from SSW & not likely to cause a full closure until it shifts more to the W. Road crews will be based at Carew Bridge to assist diverted traffic.

The high tide this afternoon is approx. 16:50. Flood warnings are in place for the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Flood gates at Little Haven have been closed.

Crews will be monitoring Newgale where there is concern about water penetrating the shingle bank and possibly throwing pebbles onto the road.

Other beaches also being monitored.

2:04pm – Pembrokeshire College closing early

Will re-open tomorrow as normal.

1:48pm – Trees down around county

Tree down Scarrowscant Lane, Haverfordwest (not on road)
Tree down partially blocking Hakin Bridge, Milford Haven
Tree down B4374 between Princess Gate and Tavernspite
Tree down Bower Hill between Hundleton and Monkton

1:40pm – Carew Castle closed

Scheduled to re-open tomorrow.

1:29pm – ALL Pembrokeshire schools now closing, Council say

“ALL Pembrokeshire Schools are now closing!

“School transport has been arranged for those pupils that require it.

“Please arrange to collect your child as soon as possible. Please note all children will be supervised until they are collected.”

1:07pm – More school closures
Ysgol Llanychllwydog – Gwaun Valley – closing at 1.30pm
Ysgol Hafan y Môr – closing at 2pm.

1:05pm – Milford Haven Town Council meeting cancelled

The meeting will now take place on a new date.

1pm – Tree down on Tavernspite road near Princes Gate

12:40pm – Cleddau Bridge advice from Pembrokeshire County Council

“To plan any journeys for the remainder of the day, the anticipated status of the bridge – given current information – is as follows:

  • bridge closed to high sided and potentially all vehicles from 1230 pm onwards today (Monday, 16th October). This is highly dependent upon wind direction as well as wind speed An unusual situation could occur of the bridge being closed to all traffic without any intermediate closure to high sided vehicles.
  • any closure is expected to last until around 5 pm when the bridge may open again to cars only. Full opening of the bridge to all traffic is not expected until around 9 pm.
  • given that the disruption is likely to extend into the peak commuter time this evening, we advise road users to monitor the situation carefully and adjust travel plans accordingly.
  • the above information is based on current information and experience, provided to give maximum notice of possible disruption. However, the bridge status can change at any time, and no guarantees can be given.”

12:31pm – Overall update from Pembrokeshire County Council

“The current situation is as follows:

  • Approximately 200 properties without power in the Eglwyswrw area, including the school which has had to close.
  • one tree blocking minor road near junction with B4313 at Brynconin, Llandissilio
  • bench on Castle Hill, Tenby, dislodged by wind
  • Cleddau Bridge now closed to high sided vehicles. Anticipated that a full closure will follow. Road crews will be based at Carew Bridge to assist diverted traffic.

“Road users, especially HGV drivers, are advised to access South Pembrokeshire via Begelly to alleviate pressure at Carew Bridge.

“The high tide this afternoon is around 1650 hours and members of the public are warned to stay away from the coastline.

“Flood warnings are in place for the Pembrokeshire coast and the flood gates at Little Haven have been closed.

“Pembrokeshire County Council crews will be monitoring Newgale where there is concern about water penetrating the shingle bank and possibly throwing pebbles onto the road.  Other beaches also being monitored.

“The following schools in Pembrokeshire are closing

Ysgol Preseli, Crymych
Milford Haven Comprehensive
Pembroke Comprehensive
Pupil Referral Units at Neyland and Penally
Portfield School, Haverfordwest
Greenhill Comprehensive, Tenby
Penrhyn (Stackpole)
Spittal Church in Wales
Sir Thomas Picton Comprehensive, Haverfordwest
Saundersfoot Primary
Milford Haven Junior
Meads Infant and Nursery, Milford Haven
Neyland Community
Tavernspite Primary
Eglwyswrw Primary
Templeton Primary
Ysgol y Frenni, Crymych
Ysgol Clydau, Tegryn
Ysgol Bro Gwaun
Tasker-Milward Comprehensive, Haverfordwest
Hook Primary
Ysgol Gymunedol, Maenclochog
Ysgol Gymunedol, Brynconin
Ysgol Dewi Sant

“Other schools currently reviewing transport arrangements, especially for exposed areas.”

12:20pm – Castle School to close

“As the weather is continuing to worsen we have made the decision to close the school this afternoon. The buses will leave at 1.30pm but you are welcome to pick up your child before if you wish.

“Staff will remain at school with pupils who cannot be collected until later. If you cannot arrive until later or you do not want your child to go on the bus please let us know by phoning reception.

“Apologies for the inconvenience but we have had to follow advice.”

12:08pm – More school closures
Saundersfoot Community Primary School – closing at 12.30pm
Sir Thomas Picton School, Haverfordwest – closing at 12.30pm
Spittal Church in Wales VC School – closing at 12.30pm.

12:06pm – Tavernspite Community School closing

“Tavernspite Community Primary School.

“Parents are asked to collect pupils as soon as possible.”

12:05pm – Power cut at Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Eglwyswrw

“Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Eglwyswrw -Temporary Power Outage.

“School transport has been called for those who use it. parents of other pupils are asked to collect them asap”

12:05pm – Templteton School closure

“Templeton Community Primary School.

“Parents are asked to collect pupils as soon as possible.”

11:50am – More schools to close early
Ysgol y Preseli – closing at 12pm
Ysgol Gymunedol Brynconin – Llandissilio – closing at 12pm
Ysgol Gymunedol Maenclochog – closing at 12pm
Hook Community Primary School – closing at 12pm
Stackpole Church in Wales VC School – closing at 12.30pm
Tasker Milward VC School – closing at 12.30pm
Ysgol Bro Gwaun, Fishguard – closing at 1pm
Ysgol Clydau, Tegryn – Closing at 12.30pm
Ysgol y Frenni, Crymych – closing at 12.30pm
The Meads Infant and Nursery School – Milford Haven – closing from 12.30pm

11:45am – Cleddau Bridge closed to high sided vehicles

10:26am – Golden Grove School remains open

“Just to keep you aware – Golden Grove School is remaining open today, despite the closure of Pembroke School. We will, however, be monitoring the situation closely and keep you updated.”

10:23am – Pembroke School closes early

“Due to the worsening weather conditions, Pembroke School will close for pupils from 11am this morning.

“Pupils will be permitted to leave from 11am. Hot food will be available if required from 11.00-11.30. School buses will arrive at 11.30am.

“It would be appreciated if parents do not arrive to collect pupils until 11am, at the end of period 2.

“School is expected to operate as a normal school day tomorrow”

10:12am – Milford Haven School closes early

“Dear Parent/Carer. Due to the Amber weather warning the school has made the decision to close at 11.45 today on the grounds of health and safety. School Transport will be available at 11.45 for pupils and parents are requested to collect pupils from the Main reception for pupils who would normally walk home. If it is not possible to collect your child please contact the school to give your permission for them to walk home. Thank you for your support.”

9:41am – Cleddau Bridge closures likely, council say

“Pembrokeshire is forecast to be hit by strong winds later today. It is anticipated that the bridge will be closed during this event, although it is impossible to give any guarantees.

“In order for you to plan any journeys for the remainder of the day our anticipated status of the bridge, given current information is as follows:

“Bridge closed to high sided and potentially all vehicles from 12:30pm onwards. This is highly dependent upon wind direction as well as wind speed, and we may experience the unusual situation of the bridge being closed to all traffic without any intermediate closure to high sided vehicles.

“Any closure is expected to last until around 17:00pm when the bridge may open again to cars only. Full opening of the bridge to all traffic is not expected until around 21:00pm.

“Given that the disruption is likely to extend into the peak commuter time this evening, you are advised to monitor the situation carefully, and adjust your travel plans accordingly.”

The Met Office has warned that there could be a danger to life due to flying debris in the high wind.

There could also be disruption to travel as roads could be flooded and fallen trees could cause obstruction.

The Cleddau Bridge may also close high-sided or all vehicles.

Those living by the coast have been told to stay away from the water to avoid risk of being blown or swept into the sea.

1,200 soldiers are on standby across the UK to respond to any significant incidents caused by the storm.

On Friday (Oct 12), the Port of Milford Haven issued a warning saying: “Please be advised that hurricane strength winds are forecast for Monday evening. All mooring holders are asked to make every effort to remove their vessels from moorings or alternatively ensure they are securely fastened to moorings on the waterway to minimise potential damage.”

 

News

Rugby Weekly – Tenby’s promotion push continues

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It’s crunch time for all rugby clubs around the county, whether promotion is their aim or fighting relegation or even just trying to improve their league position, it’s now or never. 

Last weekend saw an important win for Fishguard in division two west which should put any relegation fears to bed completely. James Griffiths added an impressive 18 points for the Seagulls as they defeated Nantgaredig 33-19. 

Elsewhere in the second division, Milford were beaten 32-8 by a good Lampeter outfit. The Mariners are still a little too close for comfort with the drop zone but should have enough quality to see them safe. 

At the other end of the table Tenby sit in second place and have played fewer games than leaders St Clears and third place Lampeter. They won impressively again last weekend, beating Pontyberem 64-19 at Haywood Lane. Fletcher Broadhurst impressed with two tries as did Hywel Baker who also grabbed himself a brace. Another excellent performance in an outstanding season so far in which promotion would be the absolute icing on the cake. 

In Division Three West, Pembroke were well beaten by Laugharne 74-15 in which the outstanding Liam Price and Nico Setaro both crossed the whitewash 4 teams a piece. The latter also added 7 successful conversions. 

There was a local derby at Pill Parks where Llangwm hosted Pembroke Dock Quins and it was an exciting clash. The visitors won narrowly 28-23, Craig Barnett and Gethin Bradney both scored two tries for the Quins. The Wasps battled hard and will be proud of their performance, Gethin Thomas impressed for the hosts with two tries of his own but it wasn’t enough to secure the points. 

St David’s hosted the high flying Cardigan outfit and were unable to score in reply to the visitors 20 points, with it ending 20-0. The Saints however won’t be losing too much sleep over it as they have had a great season so far. 

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Business

Stephen Crabb leads inquiry on retaining community bank services  

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PRESELI Pembrokeshire MP, and Chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee Stephen Crabb is leading an inquiry in Parliament that will investigate the closure of high street banks in Wales, as well as access to cash.

In November 2023, Pembrokeshire saw the closure of Lloyds Bank in St Davids, and in the coming months both Barclays Bank and Halifax in Haverfordwest are set to close. In recent years, Wales has experienced a rapid decline in the number of high street banking services available to the public. Already in 2024, 23 high street bank closures have been announced in Wales, while automated teller machines (ATMs) declined by nearly a quarter between 2018 and 2023.

The Committee willconsider how declining high street banking services are impacting vulnerable people and small businesses across Wales, who are often more reliant on cash than digital banking. It will also examine how Wales is being affected by the loss of high street bank services, and whether the problem is worse in Wales than other parts of the UK.

Mr Crabb is a staunch advocate for retaining community banking facilities, especially in rural communities like Pembrokeshire where many local branches remain the only source of face-to-face banking provision for miles.

Recently Mr Crabb challenged Barclays Bank senior management on their decision to close the bank branch in Haverfordwest– a move that will see Barclays not only pull out of the county town, but means they won’t have a branch left anywhere in Pembrokeshire. He has also engaged with LINK – the UK’s largest cash machine network – and continues to campaign on the basis that a Banking Hub is established and that ATM machines should be retained or installed, especially in areas worst affected by the closures.  

Following the launch of the inquiry, MP Crabb added: “It is really sad to see so many banks across Wales closing as online banking grows in popularity. Despite the advantages of online banking, for a rural community with an ageing population like Pembrokeshire, bank branches hold huge importance as they offer face-to-face customer service.”

“I am acutely aware of the inconvenience that the bank closures locally have already caused following hundreds of replies from constituents to my ‘online banking survey’ ”

“I am looking forward to gathering further evidence on this subject through the committee’s inquiry, and will continue to put pressure on the relevant stakeholders to ensure that adequate alternative provisions are made through the establishment of banking hubs as well as the instalment of ATM machines where necessary.”

“In this inquiry, we are particularly keen to hear from those likely to be directly affected by the shift away from cash and physical banks. I encourage anyone with first-hand experience of losing banking services to give evidence to the Committee”

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Business

Trains resume between Carmarthen and Pembroke Dock as works end

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TRAIN services resumed this morning (Thursday 28 March) after ten days of essential round-the-clock work to upgrade track and drainage between Carmarthen and Pembroke Dock.

The railway was closed from Monday 18 March to Wednesday 27 March to allow Network Rail teams to replace more than 200 metres of track and 300 tonnes of ballast (track stones) between Pembroke station and Pembroke Dock.

Work to improve the drainage between Narbeth and Kilgetty stations was also completed at the same time.

Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director, said: “This essential work in Pembrokeshire demonstrates our commitment to improving the reliability of the service we provide to passengers along our route.

“We know that replacing the track can be disruptive and very noisy, so I would like to thank the residents of Pembroke for their patience while our team carried out this crucial work.”

Colin Lea, Planning and Performance Director at Transport for Wales said: “We’re pleased that our colleagues in Network Rail have completed this essential work and that Transport for Wales rail services resumed today.

“We’d like to thank passengers for their patience while this work has progressed and look forward to welcoming passengers back in time for the Easter weekend.”

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