News

Police support national campaign targeting use of mobiles while driving

Published

3 years ago

February 15, 2023

DRIVERS are four times more likely to crash if they’re using a phone, police have warned as they support a national road safety campaign.

To crack down on the issue of people using their phone while driving, the four Welsh police forces, along with GoSafe are supporting a National Police Chiefs Council campaign starting today (February 20) under our Fatal 5 campaign.

The three-week operation, which Dyfed-Powys, South Wales, Gwent and North Wales Police will take part in, aims to remind motorists of the risks of calling, texting, using the internet or streaming music or videos while driving – and the penalties faced by those who are caught.

The consequences range from a £200 fine and six points on their licence for a one-time offence, to a lengthy ban and a £1,000 fine for those caught twice. New drivers – those who have passed within two years of being caught – face having their licence revoked if caught just once.

New legislation makes it clear that the law includes using a phone for the internet, checking social media, streaming and uploading content while driving.

South Wales Police ACC Mark Travis said: “We understand that life is very busy, and our phones are now key to keeping in touch with family and friends. Most of us don’t leave the house without our phones, which means we have them with us while we’re driving.

“However, using a mobile phone whilst driving is completely unacceptable, reckless and puts lives at risk. Concentrating on the road is far more important and will keep you and other road users safe.”

Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Inspector Chris Neve added: “When you get behind the wheel it is your responsibility to stay focused and alert. This means you absolutely shouldn’t be making or receiving calls, texting, tweeting, searching the internet, streaming music, or anything else that takes your attention from the road.

“We know that the majority of drivers do put their phone away or on silent, but it’s concerning that there are still people out there willing to risk driving whilst distracted.

“We are more than happy to support this NPCC operation, but remind those intent on breaking the law that keeping our roads safe is a year-round commitment for police in Wales and our work will not stop when the campaign comes to an end.”

If you’ve witnessed a driving offence and have video or photo evidence, you can upload it to be reviewed here: gosafesnap.wales

News

Emergency services respond to incident in Haverfordwest town centre

Published

17 minutes ago

April 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES were called to an incident in Haverfordwest town centre on Saturday morning (Apr 4), with police and ambulance crews attending near County Sports.

Pedestrians were asked to avoid part of the area while the incident was being dealt with, causing some disruption in the town centre.

A witness told The Herald they were walking towards Old Bridge when they were stopped from going through.

The witness said: “I was walking towards the Old Bridge and was told that I had to go around due to a medical emergency.”

The nature of the incident has not yet been officially confirmed.

The Herald understands the emergency response remained in place for some time as crews dealt with the situation.

We have contacted Dyfed-Powys Police for comment.

News

Teenager intervenes after bridge incident

Published

28 minutes ago

April 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A TEENAGER was left shaken after stepping in to help a young woman in distress on Clay Lanes bridge in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The Herald understands the 18-year-old was walking through Clay Lanes at around 4:10am when he noticed a young woman standing on the road bridge over the bypass.

Concerned that something was wrong, he approached her and tried to engage her in conversation. When she remained polite but dismissive, he walked a short distance away and called police before returning to stay nearby.

According to information passed to The Herald, officers arrived a short time later. It is understood the young woman then attempted to go over the bridge, but the teenager pulled her back to safety as police responded and called for further assistance.

His father, who contacted The Herald, said the young man had been badly shaken by the incident.

Dyfed-Powys Police has been approached for comment.

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this story, support is available from Samaritans free of charge, 24 hours a day, on 116 123.

Image: File photo

Community

Flood Alert issued for Pembrokeshire coast as weather conditions worsen

Published

35 minutes ago

April 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has issued a Flood Alert for the Pembrokeshire coastfollowing rising water levels. The alert, which affects areas between St Dogmaels, Cardigan and Amroth, warns that flooding is possible in the region due to adverse weather conditions and high tides.

The alert was issued at 12:53 PM today (Apr 4), urging local residents to be prepared for potential flooding in the coming hours.

Key Advice for Residents

As the flood risk increases, NRW has shared crucial advice to help people stay safe:

Prepare a flood plan: If you have one, now is the time to follow it.
Protect valuables: Residents should move important items, such as documents and sentimental belongings, to higher ground or safer locations.
Stay alert and pack an emergency kit: Ensure your phone is charged, and pack essential items like medications, chargers, insurance documents, and warm clothing in case you need to evacuate quickly.
Check on vulnerable individuals: Ensure that children, elderly relatives, and pets are safe, with a plan for their evacuation if necessary.

Avoid Floodwater at All Costs

NRW is also stressing the importance of avoiding floodwater, as even shallow levels of water can be extremely dangerous. As little as 30 cm (1 foot) of floodwater can sweep away a car, and 15 cm (6 inches) can knock you off your feet.

Authorities are urging everyone to never walk or drive through flooded areas.

How to Stay Updated

Residents are advised to stay informed through NRW’s website, where they can track water levels and access real-time updates. The agency also recommends checking its social media accounts for the latest information.

For more detailed information or if you need assistance, call Floodline at 0345 988 1188 (quick dial number: 503013).

For More Information: