Community

Pastors are new street patrol

Published

12 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.”

Community

Tenby lifeboats launched to two separate kayak incidents

Published

11 hours ago

July 13, 2026

Tom Sinclair

RNLI crews were called to Pendine and Amroth within minutes of each other on a busy Sunday afternoon

BOTH of Tenby’s lifeboats were launched on Sunday afternoon following separate reports involving kayakers along the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire coastline.

The all-weather lifeboat was requested shortly before 4.30pm on July 12 after RNLI lifeguards at Pendine raised concerns about a kayaker who had left the beach earlier in the afternoon but had not returned.

The kayak could no longer be seen from the shore, prompting Tenby’s volunteer crew to launch and make their way towards the area.

As the lifeboat arrived, the Coastguard received a call from the kayaker confirming they were safe and well at Morfa Bychan beach and did not require assistance.

The crew was stood down from the search but was immediately redirected to assist Tenby’s inshore lifeboat with a second incident off Amroth.

The inshore lifeboat had been launched after a member of the public dialled 999 and reported seeing a kayaker who appeared to be waving between Amroth and Monkstone.

A local fishing vessel, which had heard the Coastguard broadcast asking nearby boats to look out for the kayak, located the man before the lifeboats arrived.

The inshore lifeboat was soon alongside, where the kayaker confirmed he had been fishing and was not in difficulty.

Both the inshore and all-weather lifeboats were then stood down and returned safely to Tenby.

Community

Discover Wales’ past this summer with Cadw’s family events

Published

17 hours ago

July 13, 2026

Cerys Lafferty

FAMILIES across Wales can look forward to a summer packed with adventure, as Cadw unveils its exciting programme of family-friendly events set within the nation’s most iconic castles, abbeys and ancient landmarks.

Taking place throughout the school holidays, the events programme invites visitors to step into the past through immersive experiences, interactive workshops and hands-on activities designed to bring Welsh history to life for all ages.

Dr Kate Roberts, Chief Executive of Cadw, said: “Summer is the perfect time for families to step outside and explore Wales’ incredible heritage, and our events programme makes those visits even more memorable.

“Whether it’s stepping into the shoes of medieval characters, discovering ancient traditions or simply spending time together in remarkable settings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with free child entry for adult members, it’s a fantastic way to make lasting memories over the school holidays.”

With over 70 Cadw events scheduled across Wales in July and August, highlights from this summer’s programme in West Wales include:

Historic Echoes (Laugharne Castle)

Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, 11:00-16:00

Step into the early 15th century at Laugharne Castle to discover how castles were attacked and defended, handle replica weapons and armour, and learn about medieval medicine through a series of expert demonstrations.

Hysterical History (Kidwelly Castle)

Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, 11:00-16:00

Take part in an interactive experience at Kidwelly Castle, where visitors can explore the skills, training and traditions of medieval knighthood through engaging, hands-on activities with Sir Roland De Preaux.

Children’s Activity Day (Strata Florida Abbey)

Thursday 13 August, 10:00-12:00. Online pre-booking is essential.

Spend the day at Strata Florida Abbey, where young historians can explore the medieval abbey’s past through hands-on archaeology experiences and learn about the lives of the Cistercian monks and the surrounding landscape.

Historia Normannis (Laugharne Castle)

Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August, 11:00-16:00

Witness the spectacle of knights’ tournaments at Laugharne Castle to watch combat displays and see justice delivered at the Shire Court. Alongside the action, enjoy humorous performances that bring key moments in history to life in an entertaining and accessible way.

Living History Weekend (Laugharne Castle)

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July, 11:00-16:00

Experience medieval village life at Laugharne Castle with a weekend of living history. Visitors can see dramatic demonstrations of Civil War armour and weaponry, with live cannon and musket firing.

In addition to these events, Cadw is offering a series of guided tours throughout the summer to give visitors a chance to delve deeper into the details of each location. In West Wales this includes: Castell Oxwich, and Castell Cilgerran. Pre-booking via the Cadw website for these events is required.

For those looking to make the most of their visits this summer and beyond, a Cadw membership offers free entry to all events and unlimited access to over 130 historic places across Wales. Children go free with adult memberships, making it a great value option for families. As a bonus, members receive a Cadw handbook, free audio guides at selected sites and two Heritage in Wales Magazines each year.

Find out more and book tickets at https://cadw.gov.wales

Community

Letterston Fun Week raises more than £2,500 in memory of Mabli

Published

18 hours ago

July 13, 2026

Tom Sinclair

LETTERSTON came together for a packed week of entertainment, sport and community spirit, raising more than £2,500 in memory of local girl Mabli.

Letterston Fun Week featured a treasure hunt, bingo, pool, junior football, men’s and ladies’ darts, a quiz night and children’s disco, before concluding with a hugely successful Fun Day.

Organiser Tim Evans thanked the volunteers, performers, sponsors and residents who helped make the week possible, describing the support received at every event as “incredible”.

The Fun Day began with a chicken wing challenge, won by Shaun McVey of Letterston, before young singers Arthur, Mila, Etta and Nancie from Ysgol Ger y Llan took to the stage alongside Cassidy from Tonna.

They were followed by dancers from the Lowri Jones School of Dance, who performed in front of a packed field.

Live music came from Chrissy D and Steve Bartram, while children were entertained by Crazy Clayton.

As the evening continued, the Fishguard and Goodwick Rugby Club Choir delivered what organisers described as an outstanding performance.

Local band Roccanna then took to the stage, led by Letterston’s own Tristan Mansell, before headline act Forever Elton brought the celebrations to a close with a tribute to the music of Elton John.

Tim said: “This year has been a challenging one to organise, with plenty of obstacles along the way, but seeing the whole week come together so successfully made every bit of hard work worthwhile.

“To every volunteer who helped set up, sold raffle tickets and programmes, marshalled events, cleared away afterwards or simply stepped in wherever needed, I honestly could not be prouder.

“You worked your socks off to give Letterston an event to be proud of, and I cannot thank you enough.”

More than £2,500 has already been raised, with organisers expecting the final total to increase as the remaining proceeds are counted.

Fun Week is held each year in memory of Mabli, whose life continues to be celebrated by the Letterston community.

Paying tribute, Tim added: “Rob, Gwen and all the family, it is a privilege for us to organise this event each year and create a day where Mabli’s life can be celebrated by the whole community.

“We send you all our love and look forward to doing it all again next year.”

Organisers thanked everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, performed, sponsored or supported the events.

Letterston Fun Day will return on Saturday, July 17, 2027.