Community
Pembrokeshire supports Syrian refugees
Syrian refugees: Hardship after country was destroyed by war.
ON SATURDAY (Nov 1) a staggering £2,500 was raised at a concert for Syria. Jess Hope organised the evening in Newport and told the packed hall the history of her connection to Syria: Her son after his local education in Pembrokeshire visited Syria and fell in love with the country before it was destroyed by war. He also fell in love and later married his Syrian wife, Ola. He studied hard to improve his selftaught Arabic and now works as a translator. The war eventually drove them out to Lebanon where Ola works in refugee camps. Due to immigration restrictions Jess and Tony have only met their daughter-in-law over Skype. “She first contacted me to wish me happy mother’s day, I was so touched and we have stayed in touch ever since.”
Jess detailed the horrifying statistics, that half the population have become homeless and there is not enough of anything to go round. Families are sleeping on damp mud floors with only dirty water to drink. Ola works for refugee children with a small charity called Syrian Eyes. They are a non-political group of young Syrians who are dedicated to making life better in the camps, especially for children. They provide care, music, games and education. Learning about Syrian history and architecture teaches the children about their country, how it was before the wars. This helps the children remember or learn who they are, as war has blotted out other memories.
Brian Marks, compere for the evening, pointed out what a wonderful community we are, that can bring together this stunning concert of music, drama and cuisine with an Arab theme. “It is right” he said, “That we share our good fortune around a bit, so spend, spend, spend.” And people did. A film was made of the evening to show in the refugee camps so the Syrians know that they are not forgotten. This and the really generous sum raised is very important to them as they feel increasingly hopeless with Winter adding cold and illness to their bleak plight. Lebanon has well over a million refugees, about one in four of the population. Future events with a middle east theme are advertised on the hall website. The next is a Palestine evening with films, food and discussion on December 2.
PARADE BRINGS CELEBRATION TO PEMBROKE CASTLE
THE SOUND of bells, whistles, and cheers filled the air in Pembroke as the town marked St David’s Day with its inaugural parade on Saturday (March 1). Organised by Pembroke Town Team and Gwenno Dafydd, the event, titled “Ring Out the Bells for St David,” brought together residents and visitors to celebrate Welsh heritage in a lively and colourful procession.
The parade began at 11:15am, with participants gathering at the North Quay outside the Corn Store. At 11:30am, the procession made its way to Pembroke Castle, creating a vibrant atmosphere with banners, flags, and the sound of bells ringing in honour of Wales’ patron saint. The enthusiasm of the crowd was palpable as families, schoolchildren, and local groups joined in, waving Welsh flags and proudly wearing national colours.
Upon arrival at the castle at midday, the bells rang out to mark the occasion, followed by a range of Welsh-themed entertainment. Traditional music, folk dancing, and performances celebrating Welsh culture kept the spirit of the event alive, reinforcing the importance of St David’s Day in the local community.
Speaking about the success of the parade, an organiser said: “It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate our heritage. The energy and pride on display today truly reflected the spirit of St David’s Day.”
Locals praised the event as a welcome addition to Pembroke’s calendar, with many hoping it will become an annual tradition.
Images by Martin Cavaney
THE FIRST MINISTER GIVES HER ST DAVIDS DAY MESSAGE
“Today people across Wales and across the world come together and celebrate all things Wales and Welshness – Cymru a Chymreictod.
On our national day we like to follow St David and what he did and do the little things – gwneud y pethau bychain.
Because lots of little things soon add up.
This sense of taking care of others is part of our national identity, as is our love of singing and sports.
We are right to be proud of our close-knit communities and strong sense of social justice and fairness.
Our tolerance and our progressive values are also key to us.
Wales is also home to innovators and creators, making it a place where brilliant ideas can thrive.
Our rich history, vibrant culture and language is as unique as our mountains, coastlines and thriving cities.
I promise that we will continue our work to create a stronger, fairer and a greener Wales.
A place where everyone is valued, and nobody is left behind.
And where our young people can achieve their dreams and their potential.
These are aims rooted in the lessons taught by Dewi Sant himself.
So, wherever you are celebrating St David’s Day this year, help us to turn the world a little more Welsh and do a little thing to brighten someone else’s day up.
Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus to you all – mwynhewch!”
TWO adventurers, Cain Peacock and Ryan Hipkin, are set to embark on a world record-breaking challenge to climb the highest point in every country in geographical Europe.
The challenge, known as The Continental Climb, begins on March 23rd, with the pair aiming to conquer 48 high points across 50 countries faster than anyone before them. The current record, set by Adam Stevenson in 2019, stands at 173 days, 20 hours, and 45 minutes.
Raising awareness for mental health
Beyond the physical challenge, Cain and Ryan hope to raise awareness around mental health and generate vital funds for two charities: Get The Boys A Lift in Pembrokeshire and the Jacob Abraham Foundation in Cardiff.
They want to inspire people to talk openly about mental health, embrace outdoor activity, and make positive changes in their lives.
The obstacles ahead
The journey will not be without its difficulties. Some of the major challenges they face include:
- Geopolitical tensions – Two of the peaks are in Russia and Ukraine, adding uncertainty to their attempt.
- Extreme ascents – They will tackle some of Europe’s toughest climbs, including Mont Blanc, Grossglockner, and Dufourspitze.
- Logistics – Most of the journey will be done by campervan, with flights required for more remote locations such as Malta, Iceland, and Cyprus.
- Schengen time limits – They must complete all climbs within Schengen countries in 90 days to comply with visa restrictions.
- Guinness World Records evidence – The record attempt requires extensive documentation, including GPS tracking, hourly video footage, summit photos, and witness statements from each country.
Support their mission
Cain and Ryan are seeking sponsors, partners, and media support to help make this journey a success. They welcome:
- Financial sponsorship – To cover travel, gear, and logistics. Sponsors will receive brand exposure across their social media, website, and YouTube content.
- Media promotion – Journalists, bloggers, and content creators are encouraged to share their story.
Follow their journey
Supporters can follow their progress and contribute to their fundraising efforts via the links below:
YouTube: www.youtube.com/thecontinentalclimb Facebook: The Continental Climb Instagram: @Thecontinentalclimb TikTok: @Thecontinentalclimb Donation link: GoFundMe
For sponsorship email thecontinentalclimb@gmail.com.
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