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Heroes of the storm: How Council workers rallied during rare red wind warning

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PEMBROKESHIRE experienced a weekend of extreme weather as Storm Darragh brought chaos to the region, prompting an extraordinary display of teamwork and community spirit.

The rare red wind warning issued for the storm led to severe disruptions, with hundreds of trees felled and homes left without power. From late Friday (Dec 6) into the weekend, Pembrokeshire County Council’s highways teams worked tirelessly to clear roads and ensure public safety.

In the midst of 100mph gusts, crews braved perilous conditions, with around 50 trees reported down within a single hour. As one blockage was cleared, others fell, creating a relentless cycle of challenges.

Overwhelmed but not overcome

The Council’s Out of Hours service was inundated with over 400 calls, ranging from storm-related emergencies to unrelated issues such as broken boilers and carbon monoxide alarms. Meanwhile, social care teams and commissioned services acted swiftly to ensure the county’s most vulnerable residents were cared for amid the chaos.

More than 250 urgent call-outs were made to individuals with community alarms, followed by welfare visits to check on those without heat or electricity. Leisure service staff extended operating hours on Sunday to provide warm spaces for those in need, and community hubs, coordinated by PAVS, delivered critical information and support.

Leadership and gratitude

Chief Executive Will Bramble and Council Leader Cllr Jon Harvey visited the Templeton Depot to personally thank the highways teams and other staff who worked around the clock.

Cllr Harvey said: “The effort to clean up and repair damage from Storm Darragh will continue for some time. Huge thanks go to the members of our community who helped with the initial clean-up and checked on family, friends, and neighbours.

“The collaboration between the Council, Police, health services, and the fantastic communities of Pembrokeshire was truly remarkable. We are incredibly grateful for how everyone pulled together during such a challenging time.”

Meanwhile Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant said: “The effects of Storm Bert have been devastating for our communities and my heart goes out to everyone affected.

“It’s clear that the dedicated staff at Lido Ponty and Ynysangharad Park have worked tirelessly to secure their sites and undertake recovery works. Their efforts have been truly commendable.

“Our local authorities have also demonstrated incredible resilience and I would like to thank them for their collective efforts while responding to the flooding damage.

“We will continue to provide support as we recover from the storm. Our priority is, and always will be, to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.”

Ongoing support

For those still without power or water, leisure centres, including the reopened Fishguard centre, remain available for warmth, showers, and device charging.

Support can be accessed through the Community Hub at 01437 723660 or by emailing [email protected]. Generators are available for those in need by calling 01437 764551 or emailing [email protected].

Residents are urged to check on neighbours and the vulnerable. Concerns about anyone without power can also be directed to National Grid on 105, which has arrangements with the Red Cross to provide assistance.

The storm may have brought destruction, but Pembrokeshire’s resilience and unity have shone brightly in its aftermath.

Charity

Communities across Pembrokeshire unite in memory of Sally Allen

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THE TRAGIC loss of Sally Allen in 2025 sent shockwaves through communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Deeply loved and widely respected, Sally was an integral part of the agricultural and equestrian world. Her sudden passing left an immeasurable sense of loss for her family, friends, and the many organisations and communities she was part of.

In the days and weeks following the accident, people from across the county came together in an extraordinary show of compassion, solidarity and remembrance. Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity was on hand to offer guidance and support to communities affected by the tragedy, helping individuals and families navigate the early and often overwhelming stages of grief.

Support in Sally’s memory has been widespread, with particular strength coming from the agricultural and equestrian sectors that meant so much to her. Young Farmers Clubs across Pembrokeshire organised fundraising evenings and gatherings, creating spaces for people to come together, share memories, and acknowledge the profound loss felt by so many.

On Monday 15 December, a deeply moving moment of remembrance took place as Sally’s family came together with David Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Clynderwen and Cardiganshire Farmers Ltd (CCF), along with further representatives from CCF and Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity. The occasion marked the launch of a specially commissioned design on one of CCF’s lorries.

The vehicle, N12 CCF, now proudly carries sunflowers – a flower Sally loved – alongside her name, celebrating her life while also featuring the Sandy Bear logo. This thoughtful tribute was warmly received by the Allen family and ensures that Sally’s memory, kindness and impact will continue to be carried far and wide.

CCF is deeply rooted in the landscapes and communities Sally cared about. At the launch, Mr Evans announced that CCF will make a donation to Sandy Bear aligned with the miles travelled by N12 CCF throughout January, transforming everyday journeys into a lasting legacy of support.

In addition, a JustGiving page will remain open until the end of January, allowing individuals and organisations to continue honouring Sally’s memory by supporting Sandy Bear alongside the CCF fundraiser.

Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity supports children and young people across Wales who are grieving the death of someone important to them. Being present at times of profound loss, and helping communities process grief with care and compassion, is at the heart of the charity’s work.

Sally Allen’s life touched many. The response to her passing has shown not only the depth of love felt for her, but the strength of communities when they come together in kindness. Through these acts of remembrance and generosity, her legacy will continue to make a difference to others during their darkest moments.

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Crime

Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl

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Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027

A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.

Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.

The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.

Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.

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Crime

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

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Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.

Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

  • Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.
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