News

Buzzard rescued after fishing litter trauma

Published

5 years ago

August 29, 2019

THE dangers fishing litter present to wildlife has been highlighted after RSPCA Cymru rescued an entangled buzzard in Haverfordwest.

RSPCA officers were alerted after the buzzard was spotted caught in the fishing line, and hanging from a tree upside down over a river on Sunday (August 25). The charity has thanked the “responsible angler” who observed and reported the bird’s plight.

The buzzard was in a field behind the Oak Veterinary Group Limited practice in the Pembrokeshire town. Video footage captures the poor trapped bird was swinging from the tree.

Fortunately, RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben was able to access the bird utilising a reach and rescue pole, and brought the bird to safety for examination.

The buzzard had a fishing lure with a treble hook in the left wing, and following removal some tissue damage was evident, but fortunately there was no break.

Rehabilitation is now ongoing at Gower Bird Hospital, with the buzzard eating well and being closely monitored.

Keith Hogben, RSPCA inspector, said: “It was so shocking to see this poor buzzard hanging upside down from a tree because fishing litter had been carelessly left.

“The bird was caught by fishing line, and once rescued, we had to remove fishing lure from the wing. We’re grateful to the member of the public who spotted the buzzard and contacted us straight away.

“It was a relief to find the injuries weren’t too serious, and we were able to transfer this beautiful buzzard to our friends at Gower Bird Hospital for rehabilitation and further care.”

RSPCA Cymru has long emphasised the role fishing litter – including hooks, weights and line – can play in inflicting injury and sometimes death to thousands of wild animals across England and Wales every year.

Inspector Hogben added: “Calls like this are very frustrating, as the injury and trauma caused to this poor buzzard was totally avoidable.

“Most anglers are very responsible when disposing of their litter, but it only takes one careless person to endanger the life of an animal. We urge all those who enjoy fishing to follow the Angling Trust’s ‘Take 5’ campaign; and utilise recycling schemes to dispose of their waste tackle and line. It’s really straightforward and will save the lives of wildlife in Wales.”

Additional information on the impacts fishing litter has on Wales’ wildlife can be found on the RSPCA website.

News

Tigers second division Cup Champions

Published

1 hour ago

May 1, 2024

Herald Sport

In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.

The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.

As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.

But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.

With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.

The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.

Crime

Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop

Published

5 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Tom Sinclair

POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.

A window was smashed and the door handle broken.

Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

News

Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2

Published

5 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Luke Sinclair

THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.

Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.

They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.

A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.

This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.

If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.