Charity
Annual 80s themed charity 5km Night Run returns to Milford Waterfront in support of RNLI
FOLLOWING last year’s spectacular event, the Waterfront Community Runners are excited to announce the highly anticipated return of their 5K Charity Night Run on Milford Waterfront on Saturday 9 November 2024, in support of the RNLI.
This year’s run promises an unforgettable evening of fun, community spirit, and nostalgia, bringing back the best of the 80s to Milford Haven.
The evening’s festivities kick off at 6pm with an array of activities and entertainment creating an electric atmosphere from start to finish. Runners and supporters alike can look forward to live performances by the Samba DOC Band, a raffle stall with exciting prizes, and a selection of hot drinks and homemade cakes. The 80s-themed event encourages all participants to dress in neon, sparkles, or fancy dress, and get ready to run, dance, and celebrate for an important cause.
In line with the event’s night run theme, all participants are required to bring a head or chest torch to light their path along the route. Registration is open on the night from 4pm to 5:30pm with only 250 spots available on a first-come, first-served basis. To save time, runners can download the registration form in advance; however, early form submission does not guarantee entry. Due to safety concerns, dogs and pushchairs are not permitted, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
The registration form can be downloaded here. This event is a “fun run” and will not feature official timing, allowing participants to fully enjoy the unique atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to bring cash for on-site donations to the RNLI, as well as to enjoy treats and warm drinks at the event stalls.
Volunteers from Milford Haven’s Lifeboat Station are preparing to participate in the upcoming event, proudly wearing their helmets, life jackets and high-visibility gear. Their involvement not only demonstrates their dedication to the local community but also emphasises the crucial role the RNLI plays in ensuring safety at sea, all while raising funds for the organisation’s essential operations.
Charity
Woman shaves head to honour murdered partner and fight knife crime
A WOMAN whose former partner was murdered in a cowardly town centre attack has shaved her head to raise awareness and funds to combat knife crime, nearly three years after his killer was jailed for life.
John Bell was fatally stabbed in the back after walking away from an argument near a friend’s house. He was found seriously injured in a side street adjacent to the Fusion restaurant in Cardigan, having sustained seven stab wounds inflicted by Ashley Keegan at nearby Golwg y Castell.
Despite efforts to save him, Mr Bell succumbed to his injuries at the scene due to significant blood loss. A post-mortem examination confirmed the brutal extent of his injuries.
Keegan, who had been drinking and became increasingly aggressive on the day of the attack, was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2021 for what was described as a “brutal and cowardly” act. The court heard how Keegan retrieved a knife from a garden before launching the fatal assault after Mr Bell walked away from their altercation.
Remembering John
Mr Bell, who was a devoted father to a teenage daughter, is remembered fondly by his former partner, Louise Faller.
“John was a good-hearted man,” Louise shared. “As a first-time dad, he was amazing—he took to it naturally. John and I will always have the bond of being first-time parents together. He was a lovely man.”
Louise reflected on the profound impact of his death on their family, particularly on their daughter Cindy.
“There is still sadness, hurt, and anger about it,” she said. “Cindy will turn 18 on December 4, but the impact has changed her view of people and life. Her only comfort is me, her siblings, and her cats, which bring her love and peace.”
A Bold Act for Change
On Saturday, Louise had her hair shaved off in a buzz cut at Cardigan’s Hair Studio to raise money for Lives Not Knives, a youth-led charity focused on preventing youth violence through mentorship and guidance for people aged 9 to 21.
“I chose to shave my hair because it marks nearly three years since [Keegan] was sentenced for what he did,” Louise explained. “I wanted to highlight the dangers of knife crime and how easily a life can be taken. It’s a ripple effect of damage and broken hearts left behind.”
Louise is close to reaching her £500 fundraising target for Lives Not Knives and expressed deep gratitude for the support she has received.
“I couldn’t be more thankful for every single person who has donated and supported me,” she said. “It really has and will help this world in a small but huge way. Thank you from my heart.”
To donate to Louise’s campaign, visit www.justgiving.com/page/louise-faller-1727971243840.
Charity
200 hours at sea in RNLI’s 200th year for Fishguard volunteer
A FISHGUARD RNLI volunteer has become the first crew member at the station to clock 200 hours at sea in 2024, the RNLI’s bicentenary year.
Jessica Rogers, who joined the crew in September 2021, serves on Fishguard’s Trent-class all-weather lifeboat Blue Peter VII and the D-Class inshore lifeboat Edward Arthur Richardson.
This year has been a milestone for Fishguard RNLI, with over 30 service launches, the addition of a full-time coxswain, and the introduction of a tiered training scheme. Jessica’s achievement highlights the station’s commitment during this historic year, which marks 200 years since Sir William Hillary founded the RNLI.
Jessica has excelled in her training, achieving Tier One and Tier Two crew qualifications for both lifeboats, enabling her to operate as a fully competent crew member on either vessel. She is now advancing her skills as a helm and navigator. Her dedication has resulted in over 200 recorded hours at sea—the highest seen at the station in eight years.
These hours include 35 hours responding to 15 rescue shouts, with the remainder dedicated to training, including supporting other crew members during exercises. Beyond her sea hours, Jessica contributes as the station’s Lifeboat Training Coordinator, ensuring all crew training is up to date.
Professionally, Jessica is a self-employed podiatrist in Fishguard. Her clients are familiar with her RNLI commitment, with lifeboat news often a topic of conversation during appointments. On occasion, her pager has gone off mid-treatment, requiring her professional judgement to prioritize her clients’ safety before responding to a shout.
Jessica’s milestone coincides with the RNLI’s 200th year, showcasing the dedication of volunteers who have supported the lifesaving charity for two centuries. While Jessica is the first to surpass 200 hours at Fishguard in 2024, a handful of other crew members are expected to achieve this milestone by year-end.
Earlier this year, Jessica, her husband Cedwyn Rogers, Florian Caroff, and Jake Thomson were recognized for completing 100 hours at sea, each receiving commemorative glassware crafted by full-time coxswain Gemma Gill. Gemma is now creating a special memento to mark Jessica’s 200-hour achievement.
Gemma Gill, full-time coxswain at Fishguard RNLI, said: “I am incredibly proud of our team, especially Jess for reaching this significant milestone during the RNLI’s bicentenary. Jess’s 200 hours afloat are just part of her contribution—she’s also dedicated countless hours to training, fundraising, and community events. Thank you, Jess, and all our Fishguard crew, for your unwavering commitment.”
Jessica Rogers reflected on her achievement: “I was surprised to learn I’ve spent so much time at sea this year! I love being part of the Fishguard crew, and as they say, time flies when you’re having fun.
This milestone isn’t just my achievement—it’s thanks to the hard work of RNLI staff and volunteers, as well as the generous support of our donors. I look forward to continuing my training and becoming an even more valuable crew member in the years ahead.”
Fishguard RNLI’s year of milestones underscores the dedication of its volunteers and the enduring legacy of the RNLI in saving lives at sea.
Charity
Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign
THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.
Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.
The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:
- Privates are private.
- Always remember your body belongs to you.
- No means no.
- Talk about secrets that upset you.
- Speak up; someone can help.
After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign
He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.
“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”
-
Crime2 days ago
Pembroke man faces rape and sexual assault charges
-
Community4 days ago
Special guests for Torch showing of ‘Attack on Sorpe Dam’
-
Community16 hours ago
Waldo Lounge in Haverfordwest is now officially open!
-
News18 hours ago
A tribute to Honey Arteya Foxx French, written by her family
-
News7 days ago
Poignant Poppy Walk created in Milford Haven following Remembrance Day
-
News3 days ago
Police appeal after Nerf gun bullet hit baby
-
News7 days ago
Milford Haven man admits to downloading indecent images of children
-
Crime5 days ago
Man jailed for growing £500,000 worth of drugs in Pembroke