Community

Caldey Island mourns loss of beloved long-time resident

Published

9 months ago

March 12, 2025

CALDEY ISLAND is in mourning following the passing of its oldest resident, Rita Cunningham, at the age of 95. A well-known and much-loved figure, Rita had called the monastic island home for over four decades, leaving a lasting impact on both the island’s community and its many visitors.

Originally from Liverpool, Rita led a fascinating and varied life. She spent time as a Carmelite nun at Bridell Carmel before moving into a completely different sphere, working as an IT manager for a paper manufacturing company in Cardiff. However, it was on Caldey Island where she truly found her place, dedicating herself to numerous roles that helped sustain and enrich island life.

Rita played a key part in maintaining the island’s infrastructure, assisting with everything from building repairs and water monitoring to running St Philomena’s guesthouse. She was also involved in the production of Caldey’s famous perfume and honey. A talented musician, she took great pleasure in teaching piano to the island’s younger residents and served as the church organist for many years.

Father Jan Rossey, the Abbot of Caldey Abbey, paid tribute to her unwavering presence and devotion. “Rita was a faithful member of the island community, a reassuring figure throughout my time here. She attended Mass daily, regardless of the weather, and her contributions to our church and community will never be forgotten. We will miss her greatly.”

Known for her warmth and sociability, Rita embraced the tranquil island lifestyle but was always keen to share a chat and a story with islanders and visitors alike. Many fondly remember her sitting outside the Post Office, engaging visitors with anecdotes, her sharp wit, and a sparkle in her eye. She also had strong connections with the nearby town of Tenby, where she was always warmly received during her visits.

One of her most iconic roles on Caldey was assisting visitors with their luggage, transporting bags to and from the boats on her trusty mini-tractor. Her willingness to lend a hand, coupled with her kind-hearted nature, earned her deep affection from all who met her.

Last November, Rita marked her 95th birthday, receiving messages and well wishes from across the world—an indication of how much she was cherished.

Caldey Island announced her passing on March 6, and plans are underway for her funeral to take place on the island. Further details will be shared in due course.

Rita Cunningham’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her contributions to island life will not be forgotten.

Community

Festive creativity shines as Kurtz MS meets card competition winner

Published

50 minutes ago

December 15, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SAMUEL KURTZ, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, visited Pembroke Dock Community School on Friday 12th December to present a prize to the winner of this year’s Christmas Card Competition.

The competition invited pupils to design a festive Christmas card, with entries received from schools across the area. The standard of artwork was exceptionally high, showcasing the creativity, imagination and talent of young people in the community.

During the visit, Samuel Kurtz congratulated the winning pupil and thanked all those who took part, as well as the teachers and staff who supported the competition. Each child who entered also received a certificate in recognition of their hard work and effort.

Speaking after the presentation, Samuel said, “It was a real pleasure to visit Pembroke Dock Community School today and announce the winner of my Christmas Card competition. This year the winner is Mair Moseley, aged 10, and she designed a wonderful Santa image that really stood out. She has won a chocolate selection set and a £20 book token to enjoy over Christmas.”

He added, “ The creativity and enthusiasm shown by all the children was fantastic, and it made choosing a winner extremely difficult. I want to congratulate all the entrants and thank the staff for their ongoing support.”

Pembroke Dock Community School Headteacher, Mrs Katie Crockford-Morris, added, “We were delighted to welcome Samuel Kurtz MS to the school to present the prize. The children thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the competition, and they were incredibly proud to receive their certificates.”

The winning design will now be used as Samuel Kurtz’s official Christmas card this year, with one copy already on its way to His Majesty, King Charles.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

20 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.