Inquest hears about ‘lack of consistency’ in teenager’s care

Published

8 years ago

October 13, 2017

AN INQUEST into the death of 14-year-old Derek Brundrett has heard there was a ‘lack of consistency’ in his care.

Derek was found dead at Pembroke School in December 2013.

The inquest was told that Derek had ‘several’ social workers and foster carers, and attended three different schools, in the 20 months leading up to his death.

Despite being recommended for referral to Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services, he never received any treatment.

Derek’s social worker at the time of his death, Sharon Reynolds, said that she found the boy to be ‘remarkably resilient’ as well as ‘very adaptable’.

She went on to describe him as a ‘very materialistic boy’.

She said: “If he got his own way, his trainers, trips to McDonalds, he was happy.”

The inquest also heard about a note which was written by David Littlehead, a social worker who was worried about Derek.

He detailed an incident in which Derek was crying over the loss of a lighter.

Lloyd Williams QC, representing Derek’s mother, Kirstina Wray, questioned Mrs Reynolds about the fact being in foster care seemingly did not upset Derek, but losing a lighter did.

Mrs Reynolds said: “It would have been significant for him at the time because he was a smoker.

“The little things were important to him.”

Mrs Reynolds also commented on Derek once saying he would jump from a roof, calling it ‘bravado and his sense of humour’.

Mr Williams said: “That’s how you interpret these events, as his bravado and his sense of humour?”

Mrs Reynolds replied: “No, you’ve got to take a balanced approach and balance risk.”

Mr Williams then questioned her judgement, saying: “If you really believed that, your confidence in your judgement was entirely misplaced.”

The inquest continues.

Three Amigos Easter Run roars through Pembrokeshire

Published

3 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

4 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

4 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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.