HAVERFORDWEST came alive with light and colour on Saturday evening (Oct 26) as the town’s annual Lantern Parade captivated thousands. Organized by SPAN Arts, the event drew a crowd of around 2,000 spectators, all eager to experience the magic of this much-loved community tradition.

Beginning at 5:00pm in St. Thomas’s Square, the procession wound its way through Haverfordwest’s streets, led by an impressive giant illuminated boat lantern. Music from the Samba DOC band created a festive rhythm for the parade, while the local choir, Côr Pawb, filled Castle Square with harmonious choral performances.

The night concluded in spectacular fashion at the Skate Park, where PFS Entertainment UK delivered a high-energy circus-style performance and dazzling fire display. The finale left the crowd exhilarated, bringing a memorable close to the evening’s festivities.

The parade featured approximately 500 lantern bearers, many carrying lanterns crafted during free community workshops held before the event. This collaborative effort highlighted Haverfordwest’s creative spirit, drawing participants and onlookers of all ages in a celebration of unity and artistry.

Thanks to careful planning, the event ran smoothly, with sections of Bush Row, Market Street, and High Street closed to facilitate the parade. SPAN Arts marshals were on hand to ensure safety, helping create a welcoming and well-organized atmosphere.

The Lantern Parade once again proved to be a highlight on the Haverfordwest calendar, shining a light on the community’s talent, creativity, and enduring spirit.

(Image: Lindsey Mac/Haverfordwest Civic Society/Facebook)

RESIDENTS of Broad Haven and surrounding areas are in for an exciting night, as the Havens Events Crew brings a Peaky Blinders themed Casino Night to Broad Haven Village Hall on November 8. The event will run from 7:00pm to 11:30pm, offering locals a chance to dress up, try their luck, and enjoy live music.

Tickets for entry are priced at £15 and can be purchased at Broad Haven Post Office. Casino tickets, available for £5, can be bought at the door, allowing guests to fully dive into the night’s gambling activities. Entertainment will feature live music by The Numbers Racket, a local favourite, starting at 8:00pm.

Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Peaky Blinders attire, though it’s optional. The event follows a BYO (bring-your-own) policy for alcohol and snacks, making it a relaxed and flexible evening. Strict ID requirements will be in place, with no alcohol permitted for under-18s, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

BETHAN CARTER-HEWINS is appealing for support in a life-saving fundraiser for her partner, Joshua, who faces a battle against Burkitt’s Lymphoma – a rare, aggressive form of cancer. Diagnosed in June following a transplant, Joshua’s journey has been fraught with hardships.

While intensive chemotherapy initially provided hope, a scan on Wednesday revealed devastating news: the treatment is ineffective, and the cancer has spread further. The NHS consultants have offered some alternative treatment suggestions, but, tragically, Joshua is not eligible for these options.

Desperate to explore every avenue, Bethan and Joshua have discovered two potential treatments that could help, but they come at a steep price, estimated to be at least £50,000 and potentially even more. With limited time and resources, they are now turning to the community for assistance.

Bethan writes, “We are reaching out to anyone able to help, no matter the amount. Any donation would be a lifeline in this fight, a fight we will not give up.”

Supporters can contribute to this GoFundMe to help provide Joshua with his last sliver of hope.

Join the fight. Help Joshua beat Burkitt’s Lymphoma.