News

Remand prisoner released on bail

Published

11 years ago

November 20, 2013

A PEMBROKE man has been released from Swansea Prison on bail following a hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court on Wednesday morning.

Gavin Skates, 35, of Upper Lamphey Road, appeared by video link from Swansea Prison, and pleaded guilty to damaging his cell at Haverfordwest Police station on November 2, but not guilty to three other charges of obstructing police, failing to provide a urine specimen to police and criminal damage at Melastone Cottage, Hundleton.

Skates had also entered a not guilty plea to assaulting his partner by beating at an earlier hearing on November 4.

The CPS prosecutor told the court: “Skates was having an argument with his partner at home. She was packing his clothes and throwing them towards the door when swearing and a struggle broke out.

“The defendant then shoved his partner and she flew across the room. According to an independent witness, there was an excessive amount of force used. Skates’ partner called the police who attended the property, arrested, and then granted the defendant bail on the condition that he did not return to the area. However, the next day, the police were called again to find the defendant at the property.

“He was hammering the door, which had become damaged with gouges out of it.”

“Later police recovered a hatchet in the defendant’s door. He was intoxicated, under the influence of drugs. The officers attending found damage to a window at the property. The defendant’s girlfriend had again contacted the police as she was concerned of the effect of the banging and commotion on the two young children in the house aged five and 18 months.”

Defending Jonathan Webb told the court: “My client has four charges against him, but his partner no longer supports the prosecution case. She has contacted the police, through a third party, and made a statement withdrawing her complaint. She wants to be reunited with the defendant and the children to become one family unit once again. She misses him terribly so do the children.”

Mr Webb continued: “I believe that the charge of obstructing the police and the charge of failing to give a sample of urine relate to the same incident, when my client accidentally dropped the sample into the toilet. He did give a second sample. I am sure that a good CPS prosecutor in the fullness of time will drop one of these two charges.

“To keep my client remanded in custody is unfair. The Crown’s case at its highest is a push to the shoulder, and failure to supply a urine sample, he concluded.

Magistrates agreed with Mr Webb and granted his client bail with conditions. Skates was released from Swansea Prison on the proviso that he stays and sleeps at his grandmother’s house in Newport, Gwent, and he does not enter the county of Pembrokeshire. He must report to the Newport police station at 12 noon every day.

His case has been adjourned for trial on December 23.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

13 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

13 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

13 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!