Charity publishes eight-point manifesto urging next Welsh Government to protect countryside while delivering clean energy

THE CAMPAIGN for the Protection of Rural Wales has set out an eight-point manifesto ahead of the Senedd elections, calling on political parties to back stronger action to protect the countryside, restore nature and deliver renewable energy in a way that works for rural communities.

The charity, known as CPRW, published its proposals on Monday ahead of the Welsh election on Thursday, May 7.

It says the next Welsh Government must take practical steps to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and growing pressures on rural areas, while also safeguarding landscapes, communities and Wales’ natural heritage.

Among its main demands are a major expansion of rooftop solar on homes and public buildings, a commitment to deliver most of Wales’ renewable energy by 2030 through offshore wind and rooftop solar, and new rules or legislation to favour underground electricity cables over pylons.

CPRW is also calling for greater backing for tidal energy, the creation of a Nature and Climate Change Commissioner, and more support for Natural Resources Wales to help expand protected areas in line with the UK’s 30 by 30 target.

Other proposals include a ring-fenced Welsh Government fund to maintain and improve public footpaths, along with legally binding action to tackle pollution in Wales’ rivers, lakes and seas.

Jonty Colchester, Chair of CPRW, said: “Wales has the opportunity to lead the UK in protecting landscapes while delivering a fair transition to clean energy.

“Our manifesto sets out practical steps to achieve both, supporting communities, safeguarding nature and strengthening the resilience of rural Wales.

“We urge all political parties to recognise that protecting the countryside is not a niche concern. It is fundamental to Wales’ economy, culture and quality of life.”

The charity, which will mark its centenary in 2028, said the next Senedd term will be critical in shaping the long-term future of Wales’ natural environment.

CPRW has published the full manifesto in both English and Welsh. For further information, the organisation has asked media to contact Caroline Conway.

Donation helps save staff hours of washing up at Narberth childcare setting

BLOOMFIELD NURSERY in Narberth has received a welcome helping hand from Narberth & Whitland Rotary, after the club donated a new dishwasher to the childcare setting.

The nursery, which looks after up to 31 children under the age of five each day, has recently moved into new premises. Staff say the donation has already made a real difference to the day-to-day running of the nursery.

The dishwasher was purchased from Vaughans in Haverfordwest and presented to nursery manager Cheryl Crowdy.

Cheryl thanked the Rotary club for its support and said the appliance was already proving invaluable.

She said: “Having this dishwasher has made a huge positive impact by saving many hours of washing up by hand.”

Narberth & Whitland Rotary said it was delighted to be able to support the nursery in such a practical way as it continues to care for young children in the community.

Pictured with Cheryl Crowdy are Rotarian Kenna Crawford, Rotary President Robin Bradbury, and Rotarians Charles Clewett and Phil Thompson MBE.

Family-run pub on Main Street combines homemade food, live music, affordable rooms and a strong tradition of raising money for good causes

THE OLD CROSS SAWS INN has earned a loyal following in Pembroke by offering something that is becoming harder to find – a true local pub where community spirit still comes first.

Run by Michelle and Will, the family-run venue on Main Street has become a popular meeting place for regulars, visitors and families alike, with customers drawn in by its friendly atmosphere, homemade food, live entertainment and genuine welcome.

Whether people are calling in for a quiet pint, gathering for a Saturday night band session, enjoying a hearty Sunday lunch or taking part in the pub’s much-loved charity bingo afternoons, the aim is always the same – to make everyone feel at home.

Karen said: “We just want people to feel welcome when they walk through the door and enjoy themselves – whether it’s for Sunday lunch, live music or just a drink with friends.”

That simple approach has helped The Old Cross Saws Inn become one of the town’s best-loved pubs, with customers regularly praising both the hospitality and the sense of belonging they find there.

One customer said: “Very friendly, everyone knew the drinks we were having after the first order. We went on a band night and had a brilliant time.”

At the heart of the community

The Old Cross Saws Inn is not just a place to eat and drink. Over recent years, it has also become a hub for charity fundraising, with the pub and its regulars raising thousands of pounds for good causes close to people’s hearts.

Among the causes supported are Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice, Greenacres Animal Rescue, Wales Air Ambulance Charity and Tan-Yard Youth Club.

In total, £3,400 has been raised for Ty Hafan, £2,000 for Greenacres Animal Rescue, £2,000 for Wales Air Ambulance Charity and £500 for Tan-Yard Youth Club.

Much of that fundraising has come through the pub’s weekly charity bingo afternoons, which have built up a devoted following and become a valued part of local life.

Held every Thursday from 1:30pm to 3:00pm, the bingo offers a relaxed and sociable afternoon out while helping to support worthwhile causes. Regulars have become known affectionately as the pub’s “amazing bingo family”, a reflection of the close-knit atmosphere that has grown around the event.

With the games wrapping up before the school run, it has also proved popular with people looking for a friendly midweek break that fits around everyday life.

Live music and sport

Entertainment plays a big part in the pub’s appeal. Every Saturday from 8:30pm, live music helps turn the venue into a lively weekend destination, attracting a strong crowd and creating the kind of atmosphere that keeps people coming back.

For sports fans, The Old Cross Saws Inn also offers Sky Sports and TNT Sports throughout the week, along with horse racing coverage, making it a go-to spot for those wanting to catch the big game or enjoy a drink with friends in good company.

Whether it is a packed band night, a major sporting fixture or simply a casual evening at the bar, the pub has built its reputation on offering a welcoming setting for all.

Homemade food with a local reputation

Food is another big part of the attraction. The pub’s Sunday lunch, served from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, has developed a strong reputation locally for generous portions, homemade cooking and good value.

One visitor described it as: “Like your mum’s Sunday lunch – tasty, homemade and great value.”

During the week, food is served from Monday to Thursday between 2:00pm and 8:00pm. Fresh rolls and pies are also available during the day, giving customers the option of anything from a quick bite to a relaxed sit-down meal.

That focus on straightforward, satisfying pub food has become another reason why so many customers return time and again.

A garden, rooms and a warm welcome

When the weather is kind, the south-facing beer garden offers another attraction. With umbrellas, covered seating and even an outdoor television, it provides a comfortable place to enjoy a drink in the sunshine while still keeping up with live sport.

The pub is also dog-friendly and family-friendly, adding to its broad appeal.

For those visiting Pembroke and the surrounding area, The Old Cross Saws Inn also offers affordable rooms, giving guests a convenient base from which to explore the town, coastline and nearby attractions.

Each room includes tea and coffee facilities, a fridge and a sink, while a microwave is available on the landing for guest use.

Its Main Street location places it around five minutes from Pembroke railway station, within walking distance of Pembroke Castle and the Millpond, and roughly fifteen minutes by car from Tenby.

A proper local

In an age when many pubs face growing pressures, The Old Cross Saws Inn continues to show the value of doing the basics well – good food, friendly service, strong community ties and a welcoming atmosphere.

It is a place where people can come together for entertainment, support local causes, share a meal or simply enjoy a drink among friends.

And thanks to the support of its customers, that community spirit is having an impact far beyond the bar itself, helping to raise vital funds for charities and local organisations.

For Michelle, Will and the team, that is what being a proper local pub is all about.

The Old Cross Saws Inn is at 109 Main Street, Pembroke, SA71 4DB. Charity bingo takes place every Thursday from 1:30pm to 3:00pm, while live music is held on Saturdays from 8:30pm.

Follow The Old Cross Saws Inn on Facebook for details of upcoming events, live music nights and Sunday lunch updates.