News

Life order inevitable after jury convicts Andrew Main’s killers

Published

1 year ago

January 21, 2025

THE JURY at Swansea Crown Court has found two men guilty of the murder of Andrew Main after five hours and 11 minutes of deliberation.

Joseph Dix, 26, from Somerset, and Macauley Ruddock, 28, from Bath, were convicted of the fatal attack, which unfolded on Princess Way in Swansea city centre on Wednesday (Jul 17) 2024. Andrew Main, originally from Falkirk, Scotland, was rushed to hospital but never regained consciousness, tragically passing away four weeks later.

Initially charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, Dix and Ruddock faced upgraded charges of murder following Mr Main’s death. Both men denied the allegations, claiming they acted in self-defence after Mr Main allegedly threw punches at them. While admitting to knocking him to the ground, they denied continuing the assault once he was down.

A pursuit turned deadly

The prosecution argued that Dix and Ruddock were the aggressors, pursuing Mr Main from a city centre hotel and launching a violent attack in the street.

Detective Inspector Claire Lamerton, who led the investigation, explained: “Both men were visiting Swansea for work, as was Andrew Main. All three were staying at the same city centre hotel and met for the first time at a nearby bar. Later that night, an argument broke out at the hotel between Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock and Andrew Main and his friend Michael Bell. This argument moved onto the street, before Dix and Ruddock chased after Andrew Main, ultimately striking him unconscious before carrying out a sustained attack.”

She continued: “While the parties had all consumed alcohol that night, that does not excuse the level of violence displayed by Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock. They clearly set out to cause serious injury to their victim and now face significant prison sentences for their actions.

“Our thoughts remain with Andrew’s family and friends, who have been devastated by what has happened and continue to grieve his loss. This case highlights how intoxicants can negatively affect behaviour and decision-making. Had Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock chosen to walk away that night, a life would have been saved, and they would not be convicted killers.”

Minimum sentence awaited

Addressing the defendants, His Honour Judge Paul Thomas KC emphasised that life imprisonment is the only possible sentence for murder. He noted that the court would determine the minimum term Dix and Ruddock must serve before being eligible for parole. Sentencing is set to take place on Friday (Jan 24).

A family’s grief

In a police statement after Mr Main’s death, his sister Nikki Main paid tribute to her brother.

“Andrew, my baby brother, was sadly taken from us far too soon. He was adored by family and friends and beloved by more. We are absolutely devastated by his sudden passing and ask anyone with information to please, please come forward. He will forever live in our hearts and memories,” she said.

She added: “He was a witty man with a huge heart, loyal to the core. He was a fabulous brother, fun uncle, and supportive daddy to his two children. There will never be anyone like Andrew. The hole that has been left in our hearts will never be filled. Everyone in our community has been grief-stricken, but we have rallied together as one at this sad time. As a family, we are destroyed by what has happened to Andrew. We can’t thank everyone enough for the love and support they have shown.”

Sentencing updates will follow on Friday (Jan 24).

News

Fatal crash appeal after driver dies on A44 near Aberystwyth

Published

47 minutes ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a driver died in a crash on the A44.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the collision happened at around 6:10pm on Tuesday (May 5) on the A44 between Capel Bangor and Goginan, near Aberystwyth

The crash involved a single vehicle, a white Volkswagen Golf, which was travelling eastbound towards Goginan when it left the carriageway.

Sadly, the driver died at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Police confirmed there were no other passengers in the vehicle.

Officers are now asking anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

4 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Charity

Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care

Published

5 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT

A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.

The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.

The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.

Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.

Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.

The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.

The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.

The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.

Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.