News
Scale of fox cub hunting at Welsh hunts revealed
NEW figures released today by the League Against Cruel Sports expose the widespread practice of fox cub hunting in Wales this autumn, despite a ban on fox hunting that has been in place for nearly 20 years.
Cub hunting, a practice in which hounds are trained to kill by targeting young foxes, is a prelude to the main fox hunting season. The League’s data reveals a disturbing pattern of nine foxes seen being pursued, 11 cases of suspected illegal cub hunting, and 33 reports of hunts causing disorder in Welsh rural communities between August 1 and October 31, 2024.
The Flint and Denbigh Hunt stands out as a major offender, with reports indicating that its members chased seven foxes, engaged in nine suspected illegal hunts, and caused community disturbances on 21 occasions – the highest numbers recorded across the UK.
John Petrie, Senior Campaigns Manager for the League Against Cruel Sports, stated: “As we approach the 20th anniversary of the Hunting Act, these figures underscore the urgent need to strengthen the law. Allowing hounds to pursue and kill fox cubs in the Welsh countryside is abhorrent to most of the public. The law needs revision to eliminate exemptions, outlaw ‘trail hunting,’ and introduce custodial sentences for serious hunting crimes.”
Incidents categorized as suspected illegal cub hunting include instances where foxes were visibly pursued by hounds, signs of hounds marking foxes that have gone to ground, and cases where terriers were used to flush out foxes from underground dens.
Reports of “hunt havoc” include hounds straying onto roads, livestock harassment, damage to badger setts, pet attacks, and other wildlife disturbances. According to the League, if hunts were truly following pre-laid trails as claimed, none of these incidents would occur.
Data for both England and Wales highlights a total of 106 fox chases, 127 suspected cub hunts, and 315 cases of rural havoc caused by hunts, with the Flint and Denbigh Hunt ranking as the third worst offender across both nations.
John Petrie added: “Fox hunting continues, effectively unchanged, despite the ban. We urge the UK Government to make this fox hunting season the last, bringing an end to cub hunting for good.”
To report animal cruelty, contact the League’s Animal Crimewatch service at 0300 444 1234, via email at [email protected], or WhatsApp at 0755 278 8247.
Crime
Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight
A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar.
Just after 2:30am on July 21, police were called to Main Street, Pembroke, following reports of a large fight involving around 100 people outside ‘Out’ nightclub.
Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week: “Officers were told it was a large fight. They saw Walter Probert, 27, march purposefully towards a parked van.
“The van’s lights were on, and they saw the defendant pull out a long, green metal pole. He took ten steps back towards the nightclub and transferred the pole from one hand to the other.”
Another man approached Probert, removed the pole from his hands, and placed it inside the van.
“Because of the manner in which the pole was used by the defendant, it became an offensive weapon,” added Ms James.
CCTV footage of the incident was shown to magistrates.
Probation officer Julie Norman said Probert had no recollection of the incident.
“He doesn’t remember what he was doing, but he accepts everything that has been said. He was very drunk,” she said.
“He was brought up in the gypsy travelling community and doesn’t have an alcohol issue; he’s just a social drinker. He’s thankful to his friend who took the pole and placed it back inside the van.”
Probert, of the Caravan Site, Kingsmoor Common, Begelly, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.
“No threats were made by the defendant when he picked it up, but it was a stupid decision,” said Mr Lloyd. “As soon as he was challenged and asked what he was doing, he ceased.”
Probert was sentenced to a 12-month community order, requiring him to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 court surcharge. Magistrates imposed a destruction order on the metal bar.
Charity
Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025
ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.
From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.
Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”
The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.
Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”
Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?
- Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
- RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
- Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
- Cheering packs for family and friends on event day
More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025
- Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
- ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
- Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
- Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
- Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.
To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.
Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.
News
Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare
FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.
The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.
The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.
“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.
“The individual was located safe and well.”
This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.
There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.
The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.
In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.
Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.
According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.
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