Community

Milford Haven: Housing consultant sheds 5 stone 4½lbs, and says you can too

Published

10 years ago

January 2, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Fitter and healthier: Julie Pollard

A MILFORD HAVEN resident has lost 5 stone 4½lbs and is now using her weight loss success to inspire the community to lead a healthier lifestyle by becoming a local weight loss consultant.

47 year old Julie Pollard, who works as an assistant at Pembrokeshire Housing told The Herald: “I decided to lose weight when she met an old acquaintance who said ‘I see you haven’t bothered to do anything about your weight!’ . I laughed, it was either that or burst into tears. I had always struggled with my weight and then when I had my daughter I found it even harder to lose weight. I was so busy with being a mum, the rest of the family and work, that I never seemed to have time to look after myself as well”

She added: “Over the years, my weight kept creeping up and I tried a number of times to lose it, without much success. But that comment was the turning point for me. My brother had died the previous year and I decided life was too short to be miserable about my weight. My brother used to say to me ‘if something is making you unhappy, do something to change it’.

With that moment as her motivation, Julie walked into her local Weight Watchers meeting in Haverfordwest. Julie explained: “I was really nervous at first, not sure what to expect, but I needn’t have worried! The Leader was so welcoming and the other members were really supportive too, we were all in it together. Over the weeks, following the ProPoints plan taught me how making small changes can make a big difference – I learnt how to control my portions and make smarter food choices, it also helped me to kick my bad habits such as comfort eating and not planning meals. It was so flexible too, I could fit it around my life and the weight kept coming off. I gained more energy and confidence. Being able to buy new clothes in smaller sizes is amazing! More importantly, it has helped me to change my relationship with food, and I know I will never go back to my old ways.”

Julie also discovered a love of exercise, she now runs regularly and has completed 2 half marathons and entered the Go-Tri events organised by Pembrokeshire Leisure and just feels better about herself.

Julie was so thrilled with her weight loss success and new healthy lifestyle that she wanted to inspire others, just as her Leader, Allie Partridge has inspired her. Julie trained to become a Weight Watchers Leader and is now opening a new meeting in Milford Haven in January in Pill Social Centre.

“Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can. I know what it feels like to be unhappy with your health and shape, and I know all the reasons you feel like you can’t do anything about it – but I’ve found a way to turn that around, and so will you. Come along on Sunday at 10am say hello, and find out for yourself just how you can make weight loss work for you.”

To find out more call Julie on 07973 228981

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

8 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

17 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

19 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.