Community
Haverfordwest shines bright at Riverside Winter Fair
THE STREETS of Haverfordwest sparkled with festive cheer today as the annual Riverside Winter Fair brought the community together in celebration and holiday spirit. The event, which culminated in the highly anticipated Christmas lights switch-on, transformed the town into a dazzling winter wonderland.
Festivities began early at the bustling Riverside Shopping Centre, where families enjoyed a variety of activities. Live performances by local talents, including Vision Arts, Purely Pink!, and Tin Man Revolution, filled the air with music, setting a joyful tone for the day.
At 6:00pm, Deputy Mayor, Cllr Roy Thomas, joined by the winner of the annual Schools’ Christmas Card Competition, officially switched on the Christmas lights. The magical moment delighted onlookers, with children and adults alike cheering as the town was illuminated. The appearance of Father Christmas and Rudolph added an extra sprinkle of holiday magic.
Activities for all ages
The fair featured attractions for everyone. A family fun fair kept children entertained with thrilling rides, while unique experiences such as a giant snow globe and a snow castle captivated visitors. Adding to the festivities, a banner procession led by the South Wales Police Brass Band showcased creative contributions from local schools, highlighting community spirit.
Fireworks and festive music
As evening fell, a spectacular fireworks display lit up the skies above Foley House, leaving spectators in awe. Throughout the day, local choirs and musicians performed, culminating in a moving cantata titled The Children of St Saviours. Composed by Alex McGee, the piece was performed by students from Haverfordwest High alongside local choirs and the County Orchestra.
Crafts, food, and family fun
The Riverside Winter Fair also featured a vibrant winter craft market, where local vendors showcased their creations. Food lovers flocked to the street food market in Castle Square to sample seasonal treats, while the pop-up board game café offered families a cozy space for friendly competition.
The Mayor, Cllr Martin Lewis, praised the event’s success, saying: “The Riverside Winter Fair exemplifies the spirit of Haverfordwest. It’s heartwarming to see our community come together to celebrate this wonderful time of year.”
As the twinkling lights illuminated Haverfordwest, it was clear that this year’s Riverside Winter Fair had created cherished memories for all who attended. With smiles on their faces and hearts full of holiday joy, residents departed, looking forward to next year’s festivities.

Community
Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes
MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.
The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.
A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.
The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community
3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire
Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event
THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.
Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.












The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.
Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.
The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.
Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.
Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
Community
Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office
Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush
A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.
The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.
Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.
He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”
Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.
The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.
Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.
Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).
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