News
Volunteers mobilise to rescue stranded Manx shearwaters across Pembrokeshire
AS the Manx shearwater fledging season begins this week, volunteers across Pembrokeshire are preparing to help hundreds of young seabirds safely reach the sea.
The striking black-and-white birds, which nest in burrows on the islands of Skomer, Skokholm, Midland and Ramsey, embark on an epic migration each autumn, crossing the Atlantic and the equator to spend winter off the coast of South America.

Pembrokeshire plays a crucial role in their lifecycle, hosting around 60% of the global breeding population. Skomer Island alone is home to an estimated 350,000 pairs.
But fledgling shearwaters are vulnerable. Leaving their burrows under cover of darkness, many become disoriented by artificial lights from the mainland or boats. Drawn inland, they face serious risks from predators and traffic. Without help, many would not make it back to the sea.

Last year more than 450 stranded birds were found across Pembrokeshire, particularly at Newgale, Broad Haven, the Milford Haven Waterway and Tenby. Thanks to swift action from volunteers and members of the public, they were rescued and safely released to continue their journey south.
To strengthen the rescue effort this year, the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales hosted a visit to Skomer Island in partnership with RSPB Cymru and EcoDewi. The event brought together volunteers and representatives from Pembrokeshire County Council, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the Port of Milford Haven, 14th Signal Regiment at Cawdor Barracks, and local schools. The focus was on raising awareness of the challenges facing Manx shearwaters, particularly the impact of light pollution.
Richard Brown, Assistant Chief Executive of Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “We are incredibly privileged to host such a globally significant population of Manx shearwaters here in Pembrokeshire. It’s a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect these remarkable birds and the unique environment they depend on. Everyone can play a part – whether by volunteering to help rescue stranded birds, drawing curtains in the evening, switching off unnecessary outdoor lights, or simply spreading the word. Small actions can make a big difference.”
Anyone who finds a stranded Manx shearwater this autumn, or who would like to volunteer with the community rescue project, can call 01437 723193 for advice and information.
Local Government
Major improvement works completed at Fleming Crescent
NEW roofs, structural upgrades and solar panels have been installed across three residential blocks at Fleming Crescent as part of a major housing improvement scheme.
Pembrokeshire County Council said the project has delivered safer, warmer and more energy-efficient homes for residents, with the full replacement of roofs serving 54 flats.
The works also included structural improvements designed to support the long-term performance of the buildings, alongside the installation of solar panels to help improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs for tenants.

The council received a funding contribution from the Welsh Government through the Optimised Retrofit Programme, which supports energy-efficiency improvements alongside wider investment works.
The scheme was completed on schedule, with W B Griffiths & Son Ltd appointed as the main contractor.
Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Michelle Bateman said: “Delivering a project of this scale on schedule is a significant achievement.
“The new roofs and external upgrades will help reduce future maintenance issues and improve the long-term resilience of the buildings, while the solar panels form an important part of our wider decarbonisation programme.
“By working closely with W B Griffiths & Son Ltd, we have delivered high-quality improvements that will benefit tenants both now and in the future.
“Pembrokeshire County Council continues to invest in housing improvements across the county, ensuring homes remain safe, modern, energy efficient and fit for the future.”
The project has also received national recognition after being shortlisted for a Constructing Excellence in Wales Award.
Neil Griffiths, Managing Director of W B Griffiths & Son Ltd, said: “We are proud to have delivered this important project at Fleming Crescent to a high standard and within the agreed timescales.
“The combination of full roof replacement and solar panel installation will provide long-term value, improve the performance of the buildings and support better outcomes for residents.
“It has been a pleasure to work in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council on this scheme.”
News
Tenby lifeboat tows yacht to safety after skipper falls ill near Caldey
A YACHT was towed back to Tenby after its skipper became unwell off Caldey Island.
Tenby’s all-weather lifeboat was requested to launch at 1:40pm on Monday (Jun 15), after the coastguard received a call from the occupants of a yacht reporting that the skipper had become ill around one mile south of Caldey Island.
The volunteer crew quickly made their way to the vessel, which had three people and a dog on board.
Once alongside, the lifeboat crew discovered that the skipper was suffering badly from seasickness and that the other two people on board were unable to sail the yacht themselves.
After a full assessment by the coxswain, it was decided that the safest course of action was to tow the yacht back to Tenby. The vessel was drifting with the tide towards Caldey Island and was also considered a potential navigational hazard to other boats.
Two lifeboat crew members were placed aboard the yacht to help set up the tow and to monitor the unwell skipper during the journey back.
After a tow of around an hour, the yacht was placed on the lifeboat mooring in the calmer waters of North Bay.
The lifeboat then returned to station, arriving back at 3:15pm.
Entertainment
Waverley marks 79th anniversary with Pembrokeshire sailings
THE WORLD’S last seagoing paddle steamer will return to Pembrokeshire this week as Waverley marks the 79th anniversary of her maiden voyage.
The historic vessel will sail from Milford Haven and Tenby on Tuesday (Jun 16), with trips including a daytime cruise around Skokholm, Skomer, St Brides Bay and Ramsey Island from 11:30am to 4:30pm.
There will also be an evening sailing from Milford Haven at 5:00pm, travelling to St Govan’s Head, Caldey Island and along the Pembrokeshire coast, returning at 9:50pm.
Passengers can also join Waverley at Tenby, with sailings to Milford Haven and an evening cruise around Caldey Island and the coast.
On Wednesday (Jun 17), Waverley will make her only Fishguard visit of 2026, with an evening cruise to St David’s Head, passing Strumble Head Lighthouse, from 6:15pm to 9:15pm.
Tickets are available through Waverley Excursions.
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