Community

Pastors are new street patrol

Published

10 years ago

November 25, 2014

Tom Sinclair

Pastors on street patrol: Photo by Mark Griffiths

THERE was scarcely a spare seat in Pembroke Town Hall last Sunday afternoon as Christians from Pembroke and Pembroke Dock met with representatives of Pembroke Town Council and Dyfed Powys Police to commission 19 new street pastors the majority of whom will serve in Pembroke.

“This was the fulfillment of a dream that I have had for the past four years” explained Rob James Chair of the Welsh Evangelical Alliance and Pastor of Westgate Chapel who led the commissioning service. “I am so grateful to all who have helped this dream to come true especially the new management committee, its Chair Jonathon Beharral and our Coordinator Lyn Edwards who have worked their socks off to ensure that this exciting initiative becomes an integral part of our community life.” Street Pastors is an interdenominational church response to urban problems, engaging with people on the streets to care, listen and dialogue. It was pioneered in London in January 2003 by Rev Les Isaac, Director of the Ascension Trust who visited Pembroke recently, and has seen some remarkable results, including drops in crime in areas where teams have been working.

There are now more than 12,000 trained volunteers who play an active part in more than 270 towns and cities in the UK. Each city project is set up by Ascension Trust and run by a local coordinator with support from Ascension Trust and local churches and community groups in n partnership with police, council and other statutory agencies. Voicing his enthusiastic support for the scheme Sgt Terry Hughes of Dyfed Powys Police said: “I did not realize until the beginning of the week when I attended a Street Pastors meeting the hard work and dedication it has taken all the street pastor team to get to this state.

I had not had the pleasure of working alongside street pastors until I had a temporary posting in Haverfordwest five months ago but that experience allowed me the opportunity of witnessing the excellent work and the difference that they can make in the community and the dedication of all the hours and hard work they put in not only out on the streets but also those at the based caring and looking after the needs of those on the streets.I would get asked by members of the public “Are the pastors out tonight?” Some of whom are not so keen to see the police but are delighted with the pastors.”

Voicing the town council’s commitment to the scheme Deputy Mayor Pauline Walters added: “We are delighted that this initiative is being introduced to our town and we are pleased to offer our support in any way we can. Pembroke Fair is the optimum time to begin as there are always crowds of people out enjoying themselves. The Street Pastors will be able to make themselves known. We anticipate great feedback. May the Lord be their strength and their shield.” Chair Jonathan Beharral was clearly overwhelmed by the success of the launch: “The tide is turning” he reflected “From today these words will have a significant meaning.

Nineteen street pastors supported by their prayer pastors and representing eight churches of different denominations have been commissioned to serve Pembroke. They will provide practical care and support for those out on a Saturday night. This will mean listening discretely without judgment or prejudice. It will also include practical assistance to the vulnerable too. This unity of vision and motivation is a turning point in both local and national history as volunteers care selflessly for the well being of their community.”

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

9 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

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.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

18 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

21 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.