A NEW charity aimed at supporting young people in Pembrokeshire has been established and is now accepting applications for its first round of grants.

The Tenby & County Trust (TACT) was created using funds from the sale of the former Tenby & County Club on The Croft, with the aim of helping young people aged between five and 18 pursue their aspirations.

Trustee David Blackmore explained: “The purpose of TACT is to provide grants that enable young people in Pembrokeshire to follow their ambitions, whether in the creative arts, culture, sports, adventure, science, or languages.”

Substantial investment

Following the sale of the County Club for redevelopment, club members—who were entitled to a share of the proceeds—voted to establish a charity to benefit local youth.

“The money has been invested, and while we are not disclosing the exact amount, it is a considerable six-figure sum,” said Mr Blackmore.

The trust is managed by local trustees, all of whom have either been involved with the former County Club or played significant roles in education within Pembrokeshire.

How to apply

Young people interested in applying for a grant must submit an application via email. This should include the names and email addresses of two supporting sponsors and a statement of no more than 500 words outlining how they would use the funds, including a breakdown of costs.

Grants will be issued quarterly, with the next application deadline set for March 1, 2025. Grants are only available to individuals.

For more information, email [email protected] or visit tenbyandcountytrust.org.

A FISHING competition in Pembrokeshire hopes to net £2,000 to support lifeboat crews in Angle and Tenby.

The Angle and Tenby Lifeboat Fishing Competition is set to take place on Amroth Beach on Sunday, February 16, with all proceeds going to the RNLI teams that provide lifesaving services along the county’s coastline.

Former Pembroke Dock mayor Peter Kraus is leading the fundraising effort and is appealing for sponsors and raffle prize donations to help reach the target.

Mr Kraus said: “We are hoping to raise £1,000 for each of the lifeboat stations. With your help, that can be possible.

“I need kind sponsors willing to give £50, and I also need nice raffle prizes. This is such a good cause and a vital lifesaving service.”

Anyone wishing to support the event can contact Peter Kraus via email at [email protected] or call 07900 324287.

THE PRINCESS OF WALES has been announced as the new Patron of Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, Wales’ first children’s hospice.

Tŷ Hafan, which translates to “Haven House” in English, provides free care and support for children with life-shortening conditions and their families, both within the hospice and in homes and communities across Wales. The charity offers essential assistance throughout a child’s life, including end-of-life care and bereavement support.

The Princess marked the announcement with a visit to Tŷ Hafan’s hospice in Sully, near Cardiff, where she met children, families, and staff.

A vital lifeline

At the heart of Tŷ Hafan’s work is a commitment to holistic care, addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the children and their families. The hospice fosters a strong sense of community, ensuring families do not feel alone in their experiences.

Irfon Rees, Chief Executive of Tŷ Hafan, said: “We are deeply honoured that Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales has become Patron of Tŷ Hafan, and it was an absolute pleasure to welcome Her Royal Highness to our hospice for the first time today.

“As our Patron, Her Royal Highness will be an inspiration for children with life-shortening conditions and their families, our dedicated staff and volunteers, and everyone who so generously supports us.

“No parent ever imagines that their child’s life will be short. Sadly, this is the reality facing thousands of families in Wales. We can’t stop this happening, but together we can make sure that no one lives their child’s short life alone.”

A longstanding commitment

The wellbeing of children and their families has long been a key focus for the Princess. One of her first patronages after joining the Royal Family was EACH (East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices), a role she continues to hold today. She now looks forward to developing a similar relationship with Tŷ Hafan and the families it supports in Wales.