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Top News

Neyland rowers begin final countdown to 3,200-mile Atlantic crossing

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Four Pembrokeshire rowers have begun the final countdown to their 3,200 mile row from Lanzarote to Antigua as part of the C-MAP Atlantic Dash.

On January 23, 2025, Janine 70, Polly 50, Sophie 32, and Miyah 24 – otherwise known as the Cruising Free Atlantic Rowers – will take to the seas in their 10-metre long ocean rowing boat in a bid to raise funds for The Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, and Emily’s Entourage. 

Janine, at 70, is aiming to set the record as the oldest woman to row any ocean. She emphasised that age has never been a barrier for her. 

“People have been asking how I feel about undertaking the row at my age, but I’ve never let my age stop me from doing anything,” she said.

Meanwhile Sophie has a personal connection to this mission, as she lives with Cystic Fibrosis. Her goal is to become the first person with this condition to row an ocean.

Reflecting on her journey, Sophie shared, “If you had told me five years ago that I would be well enough to participate in this challenge, I wouldn’t have believed you. I’m so grateful to be able to access new drugs that have improved my health and have enabled me to become involved with such an extraordinary challenge. But there are still other people living with Cystic Fibrosis who have been unable to access this treatment, and raising awareness and improving access for all people with CF is a huge motivational factor.”

Miyah, the youngest member, is excited about the wildlife they might encounter while rowing. She said “It’s a heck of a challenge, but we have been amazed by how many people have got behind us and our cause.” As a water sports instructor, her skills will be vital during the expedition.

Polly, who works for the NHS, highlighted the importance of their mission: “Hospice at home services are a vital part of end-of-life care, and I have witnessed the good work that they do in local communities.”

With a well-planned strategy, the team will row in shifts, allowing two members to rest while the others row, however the women are preparing for the considerable mental challenges that await them, with mental resilience amounting to 70 per cent of an Atlantic rower’s output. As a result, the team has been training with experts to build their mental toughness which is essential for facing the challenges ahead.

To prepare for their journey, the women are not only training physically but are also gathering essential supplies. They will carry 1,000 dehydrated meals, advanced communications equipment, a water desalination machine, and even a fridge on their 10-metre boat. The team is now actively seeking financial support to cover their equipment and transportation costs, expressing gratitude for the backing they have received from local businesses, including their key sponsor, Bluestone National Park Resort. William McNamara, Bluestone’s Chief Executive, stated, “When we heard about this challenge, we were inspired by the team’s courage and determination. Supporting this journey was an easy choice, and we’re behind them every mile.”

With the voyage scheduled for Thursday (23 Jan) next year, the team is eager to share updates and experiences from their adventure. Sophie said “For me, this row isn’t just a crazy personal adventure, it’s also a chance to re-imagine the future of cystic fibrosis and bring hope that one day, everyone with CF will be able to cruise free through life.”

You can support Sophie, Polly, Janine, and Miyah on their journey by donating to their GoFundMe page.

Crime

Pembroke Dock child attack: Banned breed dog put down

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A DOG that attacked a young child in Pembroke Dock, leaving them with serious injuries, was a banned breed, police have confirmed.

The attack happened at a property on Bush Street at around 6:50pm on Friday (February 22). Dyfed-Powys Police were called to the scene following reports that a child had been bitten.

The child remains in hospital with serious injuries.

A dog was seized at the scene and has since been put down. Police have now confirmed the animal was described as a Pit Bull Terrier, a breed banned under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

A 42-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury. She has since been released on bail as investigations continue.

A significant police presence remained at the property throughout the weekend, with forensic officers conducting examinations.

Police have urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances of the incident while their enquiries are ongoing.

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Crime

Woman dies after violent incident on ferry from Fishguard

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A WOMAN has died following a violent incident onboard a ferry travelling from Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, to Rosslare, Co Wexford.

The Herald understands that the captain of the Stena Nordica made an emergency call for assistance as the vessel approached Rosslare Europort at around 5:30pm on Tuesday (Feb 25). Armed Gardaí, the public order unit, and emergency services were deployed to the scene.

A man has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in custody.

The ship, which left Fishguard at 2:00pm, was carrying a large group of passengers. It is understood that the fatal incident may have stemmed from a violent altercation, with reports suggesting alcohol may have been a factor.

Crime scene declared

The woman’s body remains onboard, and the Office of the State Pathologist and local Coroner have been notified. A post-mortem examination will determine the course of the investigation.

A Garda spokesperson confirmed: “A crime scene has been declared. While Gardaí conduct enquiries onboard, there are no public safety issues at this time.”

Stena Line confirmed that the 7:30pm sailing from Rosslare to Fishguard was cancelled due to the ongoing investigation.

Passengers have been accommodated on an alternative 8:45pm Irish Ferries sailing from Rosslare to Pembroke.

Authorities are expected to interview all passengers and crew as part of the inquiry.

Local representatives have expressed shock at the incident, extending condolences to the victim’s family.

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Crime

Man brandished chainsaw outside shop after grabbing child’s scooter

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A NORTH Pembrokeshire man has been sentenced for brandishing a chainsaw outside a local store after grabbing a child and the child’s scooter.

Soon after 8:30pm on December 3, 2024, a 999 call was made by a member of the public stating that a male was acting erratically outside the Premier Store in Clynderwen. The male was later identified as Rhydian Morse, 39, who was standing in the middle of the road, holding an operating chainsaw.

Some 30 minutes earlier, a member of staff working inside the store saw Morse drive up in a BMW, playing loud music. He got out of the vehicle and was seen to enter and leave the store on numerous occasions. He was also seen kicking a small plastic bin which had been positioned beside the shop’s coffee station.

After leaving the store, Morse was seen approaching a 13-year-old child who was riding a scooter.

“The defendant grabbed the scooter and started to play with it,” said Nia James. “He then grabbed the child by his arms, swore at him, and pulled the child’s hood over his head.”

Morse then walked back to his car and removed a chainsaw from the boot.

“He started it up and was waving it around in the road,” said Nia James.

“A witness thought he was going to be approached by him, while some young children were seen waiting inside the store, concerned about leaving.”

Morse, of Precelly View, Grondre, Clynderwen, eventually put the chainsaw back into his car and drove off.

He pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour, causing criminal damage to the plastic bin, assault by beating, and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

After considering a full psychiatric assessment outlining the reasons for his behaviour, Morse was sentenced to 34 weeks in custody, suspended for 18 months, during which he must carry out 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

He was ordered to pay £75 compensation to the child, £85 costs, and a £187 court surcharge. A destruction order was imposed on the chainsaw.

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