RESIDENTS raised concerns about the future of services at Withybush Hospital during a pop-up advice surgery held by local Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz at Tesco in Pembroke Dock on Thursday (Mar 6).

The informal drop-in session gave shoppers and local residents the opportunity to speak directly with the Conservative MS about issues affecting the community, seek guidance, and raise personal concerns.

Several people stopped by throughout the day to discuss healthcare provision, local banking services, and other matters affecting the area.

According to Mr Kurtz, the future of services at Withybush Hospital dominated the conversations.

Speaking after the event, Samuel Kurtz MS said: “These drop-in surgeries are vital for ensuring open communication and staying connected to the day-to-day experiences of local people.

“The latest set of service changes at Withybush Hospital were the number one topic of conversation today. Everyone is talking about it, everyone is concerned, and people want to see action.”

Residents also raised questions about efforts to secure a banking hub for Pembroke Dock following the closure of several high street bank branches.

Mr Kurtz added: “Events like this are an important reminder that many issues affecting our community, from access to healthcare at Withybush to banking services, have a real impact on people’s daily lives.

“It is important that residents have the opportunity to raise their concerns directly and know that someone is listening.”

The MS thanked residents who took the time to stop and speak with him during the session.

“I am always grateful to everyone who comes over for a chat, whether it is to raise a concern, ask for help, or simply to share their views. These conversations help shape the work I do on behalf of our community.”

Hywel Dda Health Charities is delighted to announce that it has secured three free charity places for supporters wishing to take part in the TCS London Marathon MyWay 2026 – the virtual version of the world‑famous marathon.

Taking place on Sunday, April 26, the TCS London Marathon MyWay gives participants the freedom to complete the iconic 26.2‑mile distance from any location. Whether running, jogging or walking, entrants have 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds to finish the challenge. The event must be completed outdoors, but participants can choose any route that suits them.

The virtual marathon is the perfect option for anyone who has always dreamed of taking part in the London Marathon but would prefer a more flexible timeframe, the chance to complete the distance at their own pace and the ability to take part without travelling to London.

Participants will receive a finisher’s T-shirt and medal (optional), a free trial with Coopah, the official training app of the TCS London Marathon and access to the official event tracking app.

In return for one of the limited free places, Hywel Dda Health Charities asks supporters to raise a minimum of £300 in aid of a Hywel Dda service of their choice.

Tara Nickerson, Fundraising Manager for Hywel Dda Health Charities, said: “We’re so excited to offer these special MyWay places to our supporters. The virtual marathon is a fantastic opportunity for people of all abilities to take on an iconic challenge in a way that works best for them.

“Every pound raised will make a meaningful difference to patients and staff across our local NHS services. We can’t wait to cheer on our amazing fundraisers as they take on the 26.2 miles their own way.”

Places will be allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis. To request a place or find out more, please contact the Hywel Dda Health Charities team via email at [email protected] or by phone on 01267 239815.

A retired Pembrokeshire farmer is lacing up his trainers for one of the world’s most iconic marathons, inspired by his family and driven by a cause close to his heart.

On March 22, Steve Ford, 68, will take on the Rome Marathon when he will be running alongside his daughter and son-in-law in what has become a remarkable family endeavour.

Since beginning his training in May 2025, Steve has clocked an extraordinary amount of miles for a first-time marathon runner.  He has covered a staggering 726 miles and has logged no fewer than 130 hours of running.  This includes 34,524 feet of elevation which is more than the height of Mount Everest.

Now, with less than three weeks to go, Steve has just completed one of his longest training runs to date.

He is running in aid of Parkinson’s UK, which is a cause close to his family’s heart, having been personally touched by the condition. To date, he has raised over £4,100, and his family are immensely proud of everything he has achieved.

Parkinson’s is a complex, progressive brain condition affecting more than 153,000 people in the UK. With over 40 symptoms, ranging from tremor and pain to anxiety and depression, and no cure, the need for research and support has never been greater. Someone in the UK is diagnosed every 20 minutes, and by 2050, the number of people living with Parkinson’s worldwide is expected to double to 25 million. Parkinson’s UK funds vital research into new treatments and provides life-changing support services for those affected.

To support Steve and donate to Parkinson’s UK, visit: https://events.parkinsons.org.uk/fundraisers/stephenford/overseas-runs-2026