A GROUP of residents marked the New Year in traditional style this week by taking Calennig singing to the parish streets — and using the evening to raise awareness of the proposed closure of Ysgol Clydau.

Organisers said the walk blended a long-standing local custom with a serious message, as campaigners continue to encourage families and residents to respond to Pembrokeshire County Council’s consultation on the school’s future.

Although numbers were small, those who took part described the evening as upbeat and positive. The weather remained dry, the sky stayed clear, and the group stopped to speak to people along the route, handing out leaflets and discussing what the school means to the area.

Supporters said the event underlined the strength of community spirit in the Clydau area — something they believe is closely tied to the presence of the rural school, not only as a place of learning but as a focal point for local life.

Sarah Farnden, a parent at Ysgol Clydau, said: “Ysgol Clydau is at the heart of our community. It’s where our children learn, but also where friendships are formed and traditions are passed on. Nights like the Calennig remind us how important the school is in bringing people together. Losing it would mean losing a vital part of who we are.”

Consultation open until January 23

Pembrokeshire County Council launched a public consultation on the proposal in December, with responses invited until Friday, January 23.

The council says the proposal follows a review of education provision, taking into account pupil numbers and the use of school places across the wider area.

The issue has already prompted a strong public response, with a petition opposing closure gaining significant support and triggering further discussion among councillors.

Campaigners have also questioned the timing of the consultation over the Christmas period, arguing that families and residents should be given every reasonable opportunity to consider the proposals and respond.

Supporters of Ysgol Clydau say closure would have consequences beyond education, warning it could weaken the fabric of the rural community and reduce opportunities for children to learn and socialise close to home.

Organisers of the Calennig walk said the evening showed how local traditions still bring people together — and can also be used to highlight modern-day challenges facing the community.

They are urging anyone with a stake in the school’s future — parents, former pupils, residents and local organisations — to make sure their views are submitted before the consultation deadline.

A GROUP of Year 13 pupils at Haverfordwest High VC School are celebrating after securing offers from Oxford University.

The school announced this week that four girls have received places at different Oxford colleges in a range of subjects.

Emily has been offered a place at St Peter’s College to read English Language and Literature, while Olivia has received an offer from Exeter College to study Law.

Megan has secured an offer from Brasenose College for Medicine, and Tegan has been offered a place at St Edmund Hall to study Chemical Engineering.

In a message shared online, the school said it was “incredibly proud” of the pupils, describing it as “a proud moment indeed” for the learners, their families and the wider school community.

The post also noted that Megan and Olivia are former pupils of Milford School, and thanked those who supported the applications, including the Seren programme.

The school added that it would be sharing more updates on future university, apprenticeship and job offers from sixth form pupils in the coming months.

MEGHAN SMYTH, an A-level student and young carer for her disabled sister Mia, has attended Action for Children’s Young Carers’ Gala in London – an event celebrating the determination of young people who care for loved ones.

Having balanced schoolwork with caring responsibilities from an early age, Meghan took to the stage during the Gala to perform live with a band. Her story was also shared in a short film shown to hundreds of guests – a moment she described as unforgettable.

“Watching my video play at the Gala, I found myself looking around, wondering if I was being judged. Instead, I saw genuine warmth on everyone’s faces. In that moment I realised I wasn’t being judged but rather being supported. It truly felt like a dream,” Meghan said.

During the event, Meghan also met celebrities and supporters of the charity, including singer Alexandra Burke, who praised the courage and resilience of young carers across the UK.

Following the Gala, Meghan received a personal invitation from the Princess of Wales to attend a special carol service at Buckingham Palace – a gesture highlighting the importance of recognising and uplifting young carers who can often go unseen.

Action for Children representatives praised Meghan for her dedication and talent, and for the powerful way she shares her lived experience to inspire others.

The charity’s Young Carers’ Gala aims to shine a light on young carers across the UK who juggle education, work and caring responsibilities every day, often without the recognition they deserve.

For Meghan, the evening marked more than a celebration – it was a moment of validation, pride and hope for the future.