News
Valero Refinery: Plant sounds alarm after gas leak
VALERO have confirmed that this morning’s activation of emergency sirens was in response to a leak of gas at the plant.
Many readers contacted The Pembrokeshire Herald by telephone or social media on Thursday morning (Mar 29) concerned after hearing the warning sound, which started at exactly 8.01am.
On contacting the refinery the Herald was initially told by a security worker: “We have no information at the moment, we are not sure if its a test or not.”
Looking to clarify his answer, our reporter asked: “So you are not sure if its a test or a real emergency?”
The Herald was told: “That’s right”
Later this newspaper received a statement from Valero spokesperson and Refinery Public Affairs Manager Stephen Thornton who said: “At 8:00 am on 29th March 2018, the alarm sounded on site due to identification of a minor gas leak.
“Operations responded promptly to isolate and de-pressure the line to stop the leak.”
The statement concluded: “No personnel were injured and there is no impact on the local community or environment.”
In June last year, a loud alarm which sounded across the Milford Haven waterway early on a Saturday morning was a malfunction of the Valero Refinery alarm system, it was confirmed. This led to confusion as to if the alarm was activated in response to a real emergency.
Facebook was awash with questions and concern after an alarm at the Valero refinery started to sound at about 6.30am on that particular day, which continued intermittently until around 7.30am.
At the time Stephen Thornton, told the press: “At approximately 6:30am on Saturday June 17, the site alarm system malfunctioned causing it to sound a false alarm.
“Refinery personnel completed an initial investigation and repairs were completed. Later the same day the site alarm was successfully tested.
Speaking at the time, Mr Thornton added: “As ever, the safety and well-being of our employees, contractors and communities remains Valero’s highest priority.”
Community
Three Amigos Easter Run roars through Pembrokeshire
MOTORCYCLE enthusiasts turned out in force today (Saturday, March 28) as the popular Three Amigos Easter Run returned to the roads of Pembrokeshire.
The annual ride, now a firm favourite in the local biking calendar, saw a colourful convoy of motorbikes travel through towns and countryside, drawing crowds of spectators along the route.

Riders of all ages and backgrounds took part, with everything from classic machines to modern superbikes on display. Many participants embraced the Easter theme, with bikes decorated and riders donning festive outfits, adding to the atmosphere of the day.
The event is not only a celebration of the region’s strong motorcycling community but also an opportunity to bring people together, with families lining the streets to watch the procession pass through.
Organisers said the run once again highlighted the camaraderie among bikers and the support the event receives from local communities.

One rider said: “It’s a brilliant day every year. The turnout has been fantastic, and it’s great to see so many people out supporting us.”
The Three Amigos Easter Run has grown steadily in popularity, becoming a key date in the Easter weekend calendar and a showcase for Pembrokeshire’s vibrant biking scene.
With fine weather and strong attendance, this year’s event is expected to be remembered as one of the best yet.
Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald

Community
Classic car show returns to Carew airfield this summer
Hundreds of vehicles, family attractions and local traders set for popular annual event
THE PEMBROKESHIRE CLASSIC CAR CLUB will once again bring a spectacular display of vintage motoring to Carew Airfield this summer, as its annual show returns on Saturday (June 6).
The much-anticipated event, running from 10:00am to 3:00pm, is expected to attract large crowds from across Pembrokeshire and beyond, with organisers promising a full day of entertainment for all ages.
Hundreds of classic cars will be on display, ranging from iconic British models to American classics, offering enthusiasts the chance to get up close to some of the finest vehicles on the road.
Alongside the cars, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions including craft stalls, food vendors, trade stands and free face painting for children, making it a popular day out for families.
The event will take place at Carew Airfield, a location well known for hosting large-scale gatherings, with easy access and ample space for exhibitors and visitors alike.
Organisers are encouraging car owners, traders and exhibitors to get involved, with applications now open for those wishing to showcase vehicles or run stalls on the day.
Admission prices have been kept affordable, with family tickets priced at £10, while adults and OAPs pay £5 and children £3. Both cash and card payments will be accepted.
A spokesperson for the club said the show continues to grow year on year, adding: “It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together, celebrate classic cars, and support local traders in a fantastic setting.”
For exhibitor and trade enquiries, contact [email protected]. Stall holders and car boot sellers can apply via [email protected].

Community
Residents evacuated after Carmarthenshire fire as investigation continues
EMERGENCY SERVICES remain at the scene of a serious property fire in Kidwelly as investigations continue and efforts are made to make the building safe.
The fire broke out on Lady Street in the early hours of Tuesday (March 24), prompting a multi-agency response involving Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Carmarthenshire County Council.
As a precaution, neighbouring properties were evacuated due to safety concerns, with residents temporarily displaced while the structural integrity of the affected building is assessed.
Safety work underway
Contractors were due to begin work at 9:00am on Thursday (March 27) to stabilise the structure and allow investigators to safely access the site. Authorities say the priority is to ensure the building is secure so residents can return to their homes as soon as possible.
However, officials have stressed that this will not happen until the site is deemed safe.
Lady Street remains closed while the work is carried out, with disruption expected to continue in the area.
Appeal for information
Police have thanked the local community for their patience and support during the ongoing incident.
Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage recorded between 11:00pm on Monday (March 23) and 4:00am on Tuesday (March 24).
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.
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