News

Three of seven boy racers jailed following A40 smash

Published

10 years ago

December 22, 2014

Three of seven boy racers who swarmed up Arnold’s Hill on the A40 at up to 100mph have been jailed this morning (Dec 22).

The other four received suspended sentences and all were banned from driving.

Judge Paul Thomas told them at Swansea crown court their racing had been childish, immature, astonishingly bad and dangerous.

The seven had been in a convoy of up to 40 cars that had met at a Murco garage in Haverfordwest on August 11, 2013, to drive to Swansea.

Stephen Murray, 23, of 50 Lawrenny Street, Neyland and Ieuan Power, 18, of 17 Harbour Close, Milford, began showing off almost immediately by racing round and round a roundabout, said Robin Rouch prosecuting.

As the convoy reached Arnold’s Hill, where the east bound carriageway opened to two lanes, several cars began racing and using the third, oncoming lane, as an additional overtaking lane, effectively turning that stretch of the A40 into a one way street.

Power became blocked in and undertook a car before swerving back into the regular overtaking lane. As the vehicles slowed at the top of the hill Scott Beavis, 21, of 23 Skomer Drive, Milford Haven could not control his braking and swerved into the oncoming lane at 80mph, hitting head on a Seat Ibiza being driven by Andrea Gainfort.

She suffered a punctured lung and was in hospital for 13 days. Her daughter Zoe and her mother Maureen Howells were also injured.

Beavis himself had to be airlifted to Morriston hospital, Swansea.

Today, Beavis was jailed for six months and banned from driving for two years.

Ian Lloyd, 22, of 66 College Park, Neyland, received the same sentence. Judge Thomas said he had set the pace going upArnold’s Hill and others had followed his example.

Jack Murdoch, 18, of 31 Main Road, Waterson, was jailed for 16 weeks and banned from driving for 12 months. He had told a jury “bare faced lies,” said Judge Thomas.

Edward Adams, 19, of Green Cottage, Thornton Road, Steynton, was jailed for 16 weeks, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to carry out 180 hours of unpaid work for the community

James Adams, 23, also of Green Cottage, Stephen Murray, 23, of 50 Lawrenny Street, Neyland and Ieuan Power, 18, of 17 Harbour Close, Milford, were jailed for 12 weeks, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to do 150 hours of work.

All seven will have to take extended driving tests before getting their licences back and to pay government surcharges.

Judge Thomas said they had driven “like idiots” on what would have been a busy summer Sunday afternoon in Pembrokeshire.

Beavis had caused the accident but it could have been anyone one them as they had all “driven like lunatics, competing to see who could drive the fastest.”

“Cars are not toys for little boys. It is a culture amongst young men of your age in Pembrokeshire to show off, to pose at ridiculous speeds, buzzing and swarming like bees,” added Judge Thomas.

The judge said he noted that even before August 11 Beavis had received five written warnings from police about his driving. James and Edward Adams had each received two notices and Edwards Adams had once been banned for driving at 107mph in a 60mph area. Lloyd, Power and Murdoch had each received one warning.

Lloyd and Murdoch had denied dangerous driving but had been convicted by a jury after a trial. The other five defendants had entered pleas of guilty.

Judge Thomas again raised concern about the evidence given by two witnesses on behalf of Lloyd and Murdoch.

Mr Rouch said, “It will not be overlooked. It is not going to go away as far as they are concerned.”

Racing before the smash: Scott Beavis

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25 Comments

Adam Jenkins

December 22, 2014 at 3:02 pm

The photograph at the bottom of your page of Scott is at pembrey race circuit! Not before the accident at all
Tom K

December 22, 2014 at 3:11 pm

About time the boy racers of Haverfordwest got punished. Maybe now the others will learn not be such idiots, but I won’t hold my breath.

They all got what they deserve.
admin

December 22, 2014 at 3:30 pm

Judging by the state of the car, I doubt it was after the crash
Anon

December 22, 2014 at 4:26 pm

Dangerous driving has been an issue for many years and does not appear to be something that is going away very quickly.

Something has got to change in the way we prevent and deal with these cases, or we risk losing more loved ones in a particularly gruesome and painful way.

I have personally lost 2 of my friends in 2 separate car crashes and my wife has also lost one of her friends in another separate incident. All 3 were teenagers at the time.

As painful as it was for us at the time, It was even worse watching our friends’ families come to terms with their loss. This has left a lasting impression in our memories.

Now I’m no angel myself, I’ve been guilty of enjoying the risk of speeding around the country roads of Pembrokeshire when I was a teenager/in my early 20s.

I don’t think its an age thing, as I often see grown men driving extremely dangerously on their morning commute, but it does seem to mostly be males that are to blame here.

However since I became a father a couple of years ago, I’ve looked at things slightly differently. What if, through no fault of my own, someone crashed into my car and killed one or more of my family?

My wife and/or I could be deprived of seeing our daughter growing up, or our daughter could have to grow up without one or both of her parents. Not to mention the effect on Grandparents, Friends, Aunts, Uncles, and so on.

How could someone possibly put other people and their families at risk for their own self satisfaction and bravado?

One, two, or all three generations of Andrea Gainfort’s family could have been lost in that accident, with their fate decided by an entirely pointless act of selfishness.

I’m not pretending that I have all the answers, there are people far cleverer than me who may have better ideas, but I do believe that dangerous drivers should be made to see the damage they create.

They should also be made to understand the impact it has on their own families, who may have to live with the knowledge that their own child has caused the death of another.

For anybody reading this, I have one request to make before you next get into the driving seat – please, PLEASE THINK:

What if, through driving too fast, me or one of my friends causes the death of my mother, father, son, daughter, brother, sister…??

I’ll leave that thought with you.
tomos

December 22, 2014 at 5:20 pm

I think adam was trying to be a pedant but admin corrects him perfectly 🙂

these guys should have had a longer custodial sentences – THAT would keep them off the roads.
ps the “unreliable witnesses” thought themselves SO clever – better pack your bags too, and don’t forget if you’re bending down to pick up the soap – straight backs 😉
Rhys quigley

December 22, 2014 at 5:37 pm

THE PICTURE YOU HAVE USED OF SCOTT IS BEING FALSELY USED You have picked this picture and put a diffrent title to it because this picture is taken on a private track not a public road so this photo has no relevance to the crash. You as a newspaper should be state facts and the truth not miss leading the public with irrelevant imformation and photos
anon

December 22, 2014 at 5:56 pm

Whether the photo is from the racetrack or not, it just shows that he has learnt bugger all from track days, as to how to control his car. it is just a pity it was not one of his own family that he crashed into,
Joe Baldry

December 22, 2014 at 6:40 pm

Beavis and his mates are imbeciles and deserve even harsher sentences. They drove around like idiots, almost causing many other incident…..this accident was just a matter of time.

Longer custodial sentences and much longer driving bans were needed here….for all of them.

So, for the ones who were jailed, have a nice Christmas inside. I just hope you have time to reflect on what you’ve done but somehow I doubt you will. It seems that you’re all still blaming others for YOUR actions. To the rest of you who got off with suspended sentences….stay the hell away from these ‘friends’ of yours, grow the hell up and move on. Next time you will be going to prison and that really will screw up your life, job and aspirations. That said, Beavis had already done that prior to this incident. Idiot.
Anon

December 22, 2014 at 7:03 pm

i rang up the herald earlier and you lot hung up on me because i stated that you titled the photo incorrectly and shoudnt of used this and you saying it was before the crash you lot know nothing because it isnt actually him in the drivers seat of that saxo on the track day shows how much you lot know about this photo and his driving . yes he had an accident but it has nothing to do with him learning or not learning anything on a track day .. And the one who wished it on his parents thats low you cant wish anyone to be hurt in a accident your just sick and i hope you lot read this comment because it states facts and as for the herald your as bad as norris of coronation street with your gossip!!! Get all the facts before writing and using other peoples photos which has nothing to do with him being in an accident!
Rhys quigley

December 22, 2014 at 7:04 pm

ANON you have gone off the subject that I was on because I was just telling everyone that didn’t know the truth that this picture is a misleading picture and has no relevance to this article,what scott done in his spare time and OFF the PUBLIC ROAD is no else’s business apart from his.
How dare you wish it was one of his family this wasn’t planned it was a complete incident
Anon

December 22, 2014 at 7:36 pm

People were nearly killed and all you\’re concerned about is the caption under the bottom photograph? If the photo was indeed taken at a circuit – then it raises the question… if people are able to race their cars on circuits (at their own risk), why do they still insist on racing them on public roads at the risk of innocent people? It might not have been planned, but the collision was entirely his own fault and the fault of the other idiots at the time.
Mike r

December 22, 2014 at 7:55 pm

One things clear is these boys had a lot of friends who are unwilling to see the seriousness of the incident. A slightly different angle, slightly slower reaction time and you\’d be talking fatalities! They should spend their time in prison considering how lucky they are it didn\’t result in anything more serious, and their immature friends arguing how \’people don\’t know anything\’ should use this as an example and sort their driving out! We do know by the way because it\’s been to court and they\’ve been prosecuted for it, don\’t really need any more proof than that.
Arran

December 22, 2014 at 7:55 pm

As regards the photograph the caption is entirely accurate. It is a picture of him racing before the accident. Maybe a couple of months before but still prior to it.
TAM

December 22, 2014 at 11:13 pm

There are some jokers on here now, trying to defend their dullard mates…..there’s no defending them, that\\’s why the best you can pull out of the bag is something to do with a picture caption. Your mates are idiots and deserve longer prison sentences and driving bans, accept that and don\\’t defend their stupidity!
Anon

December 22, 2014 at 11:16 pm

Big lolz arron it wasnt even him driving the car in the photo haha get your facts right taaaaada
Anon

December 23, 2014 at 2:17 am

Have a thought for the victim in seat and then think about their family and what they\’ve been threw, there all a bunch clowns so I don\’t understand how u can stick up 4 all those idiots, what if it was one of your family in that seat???
Anon

December 23, 2014 at 6:08 am

Regardless of what track that pics from. If that was my family he had hit. He’d be I a coffin. Utter pricks should never be allowed to ever go near a car again.
Billy McG.

December 23, 2014 at 9:59 am

You little boys have not yet learned what life is about. I have been in prison myself many years ago for a short stretch for sorting out some mug like this lot in a pub fight.

When you come out of prison you will be a different person. You will realise that all the public bravado of your driving, your boasts on social media, your heavy drinking sessions proving what hard men you are will count for nothing when you come across real hardened criminals in prison who will make you their bitches. You will spend most of your time in the toilets shitting yourselves with nervousness trying to hide from the bad men that will own your asses (literally) once they realise you are just soft punks from a little nothing town in west Wales.

To the others who received suspended sentences, you’ll reign in your activities for sure. You’ll all be shitting yourselves now, getting buses everywhere or scrounging lifts off your other mug, low life mates who think life is all about the speedometer and getting “wrecked” at the weekend. If I was the family of the people who were injured I’d be making sure you paid more than the price of a government surcharge and losing your licence.

Losers.
Willie G

December 23, 2014 at 11:26 am

@ Rhys QuigleyBit more thinking required here. The photos description is 100% accurate. The f***wit is indeed racing and it is before the crash. It just does not say how long before the crash or where. It beggars belief that you are sticking up for this clown when he could easily have killed someone or himself. Would you be so supportive if he put your mother in hospital ????
ian

December 23, 2014 at 6:18 pm

plenty of beavis’s butthead mates here defending the indefensible – I suggest you have a look at facebook where this story is mentioned by news outlets and his mates using their real names – I suggest you have a look, make a note of their names and businesses and avoid them as they don’t sound like ppl decent ppl would want to associate with
Dan

December 24, 2014 at 1:11 pm

I am not trying to stand up for Scott as he and a few others were beyond stupid for what they done I just want to point out that yes the picture of the car was on a race circuit, was before the incident but I think that maybe it could have been worded slightly different as the way it\\\’s worded makes it sound like it was taken on the day of the accident. I have made a complaint to the herald about this but sadly I was confronted by a man who became aggressive over the phone and didn\\\’t let me get my point across, I found this very unproffecional and will be taking the matter further.
IAN

December 24, 2014 at 6:38 pm

I congratulate the Pembrokeshire Herald for standing up to these silly ppl complaining about a picture
Liam Ferris

January 20, 2015 at 12:36 pm

They all should have received life bans and longer sentences. No wonder my car insurance is so damn expensive. It’s because of idiots like these.
Edward Tomp

January 20, 2015 at 12:42 pm

Only six month sentences? Surely they should all have had been jailed and for a whole lot longer than what they got? I almost guarantee that several of these clowns will not have learned their lesson.

Watch this space.
Adam John

January 22, 2015 at 1:30 pm

Scum, the lot of them. Lock them all up and throw away the key. The length of sentences and the ban durations are an absolute joke. These idiots should never be let behind the wheel again.

All their friends and families are all over Facebook trying to defend them. This only shows that they will never hold their hands up, take responsibility and accept what they did wrong.

The sentences are unduly lenient and people need to contact the CPS or Attorney General’s Office to complain.

Charity

Streaming and betting driving greyhound racing surge in Wales, say campaigners

Published

18 mins ago

November 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL welfare advocates have raised concerns over a sharp rise in greyhound races at Valley Stadium, Wales’ only licensed track. Greyhound Rescue Wales claims that streaming contracts are a major factor behind this increase, which has sparked renewed calls for a ban on the sport.

The Valley Stadium in Hengoed, licensed by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) in August 2022, hosted 42 races in November 2023. That number surged to 168 last month. The GBGB, however, argues this growth reflects the benefits of regulation, ensuring formal welfare measures are in place for the first time.

Welfare concerns linger

Tim Doyle, CEO of Greyhound Rescue Wales, dismissed the notion of greyhound racing as a harmless evening pastime. He said: “The main output of the Valley track, like most tracks in the UK, is to serve live streaming contracts, not to entertain crowds at the venue.”

Mr. Doyle, alongside gambling reform advocate Matt Zarb-Cousin, criticised the industry’s reliance on betting revenues, which they claim disproportionately come from individuals with gambling problems. Both campaigners also raised alarms over the welfare of racing dogs.

“It’s not regulation; it’s self-regulation,” said Mr. Doyle, pointing to GBGB data showing over 18,000 injuries and 2,000 fatalities on regulated tracks between 2018 and 2021. He also highlighted the challenges of rehoming retired greyhounds amid rising living costs and vet bills.

Calls for a phased ban

The Welsh government is expected to respond soon to a consultation exploring a phased ban on greyhound racing. This follows a petition signed by 35,000 people and a Senedd committee recommendation for gradually ending the sport in Wales. However, a counter-petition in support of greyhound racing garnered more than 10,000 signatures.

The GBGB defended its role, emphasising improved welfare standards at the Valley Stadium, including on-site veterinary care and robust rules to ensure safety and integrity. A spokesperson said: “British licensed greyhound racing contributes £166 million to the economy and remains a popular product for broadcasters worldwide.”

Industry divided

A Betting and Gaming Council spokesperson welcomed the improvements at Valley Stadium, noting: “Last year, our members voluntarily donated over £7m to the British Greyhound Racing Fund for welfare.”

The Valley Racetrack declined to comment. Meanwhile, welfare groups, including Greyhound Rescue Wales, continue to push for an end to what they describe as an “antiquated” industry, citing the harm caused to both animals and vulnerable gamblers.

The debate is likely to intensify as the Welsh government publishes its findings, potentially shaping the future of greyhound racing in Wales.

Community

Step into a magical festive adventure at Oriel y Parc

Published

33 mins ago

November 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FAMILIES are invited to embark on a magical journey this winter with the launch of the Winter Festive Nature Trail, opening Saturday 23 November at Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre, St Davids. Perfect for explorers of all ages, this enchanting trail combines nature, fun and festive cheer in an outdoor adventure.

Visitors will uncover seven glowing animals, each hidden within a unique habitat. Armed with a special magic torch, participants will reveal and collect glowing animals as they follow the trail. Once completed, families can return to the desk to reunite the animals with their festive homes and claim a Nature Adventurer’s treat.

This engaging event runs daily from 9.30am-3.30pm until Friday 20 December. Entry is £4 per child, making it an affordable and memorable activity for families.

Adding to the festive magic, Oriel y Parc welcomes the return of its North Pole Post Box. Children can write letters to Santa, sharing their festive wishes, and drop them into the special post box. After three days, families can return to pick up a personalised reply from Santa along with a surprise from the elves’ workshop. The Free Post Office will operate from Saturday 23 November – Thursday 19 December, spreading holiday cheer to visitors of all ages.

The festivities continue with the highly anticipated Christmas Market on Saturday 7 December from 10am to 3pm. This market is a perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit while browsing an array of local craft and food stalls. Live music performances by the Solva Ukulele Pirates and the Barn Howlers will create a lively atmosphere throughout the day.

Visitors will find a wide selection of unique handmade gifts and treasures from talented local makers and producers, perfect for Christmas shopping. Seasonal food will be available from the new team at The Brunch House, offering warming and delicious dishes to enjoy during the event. With free entry and parking, the market is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season and support local artisans.

Oriel y Parc is delighted to welcome visitors to these special seasonal events, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From magical trails to festive shopping and Santa’s special deliveries, the holiday season at Oriel y Parc promises to be unforgettable.

For more details on Christmas events and The Brunch House opening hours throughout November and December, visit www.orielyparc.co.uk.

News

Careers Wales launches Enterprise Troopers competition for primary schools

Published

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November 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREERS WALES, in partnership with the Welsh Government’s Youth Entrepreneurship programme, Big Ideas Wales, has announced the launch of the 2024-25 Enterprise Troopers Primary School Competition. The competition invites primary schools across Wales to compete for cash prizes of up to £2,500, with additional awards for runners-up.

The challenge celebrates creativity, sustainability, and community impact, encouraging schools to foster entrepreneurial thinking in their pupils. Schools excelling in innovative approaches will be recognised in three categories:

Best Enterprise School for ECO/Sustainability
Best Enterprise School for Community/Social Impact
Best Enterprise School for Creativity/Innovation

Fostering skills for the future

The competition aims to nurture entrepreneurial attitudes in young learners, focusing on creativity, problem-solving, communication, and organisational skills while enhancing literacy and numeracy. Participating schools will receive a digital entry pack containing tailored resources for lower and upper primary age groups. These materials, aligned with the Welsh curriculum, inspire students and teachers to explore enterprise by developing business ideas, making sales, and supporting their local communities.

Schools showcasing their enterprise projects in the Enterprise Troopers gallery will also be eligible for monthly spot prizes.

Inspiring educators and students

Mark Owen, Head of Services to Stakeholders at Careers Wales, said: “We’re thrilled to launch the Enterprise Troopers Primary School competition for 2024-25. For over a decade, this initiative has provided learners with a unique opportunity to explore enterprise, build essential skills, and make a difference in their communities. It’s also a chance for schools to gain recognition for their entrepreneurial achievements and inspire others.”

Carys Davies, Enterprise Lead at Halfway Primary School, praised the programme, saying:
“Pupils developed entrepreneurial skills in an authentic and fun way. It was amazing to see their confidence grow—whether mathematically minded or creatively inclined, every learner contributed and gained valuable insights. We’re excited to build on this experience and expand our enterprise opportunities.”

Key details:

Open to all primary schools in Wales.
Suitable for schools with enterprise clubs, past participants, or newcomers.
Projects must be pupil-led and active between 1 January 2024 and 16 June 2025.
Winners will be announced in July 2025.

Schools can register and find more information at The Enterprise Troopers | Business Wales – Big Ideas.

Take the first step in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs—register today!