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Dorrien Davies elected as 130th bishop of St Davids

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IN AN EVENT that marks a significant chapter in the spiritual leadership of Wales, Dorrien Davies, a seasoned cleric who has rendered his service across all counties of Wales’ most expansive diocese, has been chosen to ascend as its 130th bishop.

Elected this week, The Archdeacon of Carmarthen, Dorrien Davies will oversee St Davids Diocese, encompassing Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion.

On the second day of deliberations at St Davids Cathedral, Archdeacon Dorrien obtained the crucial two-thirds majority endorsement from the Electoral College. This pivotal announcement was broadcasted at the cathedral’s western entrance by the Archbishop of Wales, Andrew John.

The Archbishop commented, “It is with great pleasure that I recognise the election of the Archdeacon of Carmarthen. His profound wisdom, intimate understanding of this region, and remarkable abilities will be pivotal in advancing the diocese and fortifying our unity in faith, hope, and love. Under his stewardship, I trust that the diocese will indeed embody the values St David implored: joy, fidelity, and an appreciation for life’s simple blessings.”

Responding to his appointment, Archdeacon Dorrien remarked, “It is both a profound honour and a humbling experience to receive the trust of the Electoral College. My commitment stands firm – to serve the Diocese and the broader Province of Wales in the glorious name of our risen Lord, Jesus Christ. I eagerly await the journey ahead, filled with promise and new horizons.”

Until the official confirmation at the Sacred Synod service on November 29, Archdeacon Dorrien will retain the title of Bishop-Elect. Subsequent ceremonies include his consecration at Bangor Cathedral on January 27 and his enthronement at St Davids Cathedral shortly thereafter.

This election was necessitated following Joanna Penberthy’s retirement as Bishop of St Davids in July, culminating her tenure that began in 2017.

For transparency, the Electoral College consists of representatives from all six Welsh dioceses, inclusive of bishops. St Davids Diocese was represented by twelve members (half laypeople and half clergy), while the remaining dioceses had six representatives each. The selection procedure, marked by confidentiality, entails nomination, discussion, and a ballot vote, with a two-thirds majority signifying a successful election.

Dorrien Davies with Archbishop Andrew John

Journey of Ministry: From Abergwili to the Pinnacle

The Bishop-Elect’s path has been remarkable. A native of Abergwili and fluent in Welsh, Dorrien began his spiritual education at St Michael’s College, Llandaff, receiving his ordination in 1989. His ministry journey led him from Llanelli to Llanfihangel Ystrad Aeron, eventually earning a degree from the University of Wales, College of Lampeter in 1995. Subsequent significant roles included his tenure as Vicar of St Dogmael’s, Pembrokeshire, Canon of St Davids Cathedral, and eventually, his appointment as the Archdeacon of Carmarthen in 2017.

Outside his clerical duties, Dorrien leads a fulfilling personal life. Married to Rosie and father to two sons, Morgan and Lewies, he finds solace in reading and expresses his creativity through painting.

 

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Residents return home after major Carmarthenshire fire as probe continues

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RESIDENTS forced to evacuate their homes following a major fire in Kidwelly have now been allowed to return, as emergency services confirm the scene has been stood down.

The blaze broke out at a property on Lady Street in the early hours of Tuesday (March 24), with emergency services called at around 4:20am. Several neighbouring homes were evacuated as a precaution while firefighters tackled the incident and assessed the safety of surrounding buildings.

In the latest update, Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that officers have now left the scene and displaced residents were able to return to their properties on Thursday evening (March 26), following work to make the affected building safe.

The incident caused significant disruption in the town, with Lady Street remaining closed while further work is carried out to ensure the safety of the highway and surrounding structures.

Emergency services, including Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, were on the scene for several hours during the initial response. Crews were understood to have dealt with a serious property fire, prompting a large-scale emergency operation in the centre of the town.

While the immediate danger has now passed, authorities have confirmed that investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage from the area between 11:00pm on Monday (March 23) and 4:00am on Tuesday (March 24).

Anyone with information is urged to contact police quoting reference 027 of 24/3, either via 101, online, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

Authorities thanked residents and the wider community for their patience during the incident, which saw homes evacuated and roads closed while emergency services carried out their work.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

 

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West Wales fire crews sharpen skills in major training exercise

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FIREFIGHTERS from across west Wales took part in a large-scale training exercise designed to sharpen operational skills and strengthen teamwork.

Crews from the Western Division of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the development day at Earlswood Training Centre on Sunday (March 22).

Personnel travelled from stations including Carmarthen, Tumble, Newcastle Emlyn, Milford Haven, Narberth and Pontyates to take part in the exercise.

Realistic scenarios

Firefighters were put through a series of realistic scenarios designed to reflect incidents they may face on duty.

These included house fires with people reported inside, kitchen fires, and multi-vehicle road traffic collisions. Crews also carried out specialist line rescue exercises as part of the day.

Support staff played the roles of casualties and members of the public, adding to the realism and allowing firefighters to test their responses in lifelike conditions.

Large-scale finale

The training culminated in a complex car fire scenario involving a vehicle inside a garage attached to a property, with reports of people trapped.

Teams worked together as they would at a real incident, tackling the fire while carrying out rescues within the building.

Building capability

The exercise was described as a success, helping to build operational confidence and improve coordination between different stations.

It also provided an opportunity for crews to share knowledge and specialist skills, strengthening the overall capability of the service.

The training forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure firefighters remain prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies across the region.

 

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Three Amigos Easter Run roars through Pembrokeshire

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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

 

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