Community

Carer to undertake ten weeks with Tearfund

Published

10 years ago

January 5, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Tearfund: Tara sees helping poor communities as part of her discipleship

A PEMBROKE DOCK carer is following in her friend’s footsteps and heading off to South Africa to play her part in an initiative, devoted to transforming the lives of families and children blighted by the scourge of HIV. Tara Baker, who heads off to Durban for ten weeks in early January, has been selected to serve with the Christian relief agency Tearfund in conjunction with ICS (International Christian Service). Tearfund/ICS offers volunteers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend ten weeks in Bangladesh, Bolivia, Rwanda or South Africa working alongside young in-country volunteers and contributing directly to genuine development projects “I heard about this programme from Sophie Merrix’s mother” Tara explained.

“Sophie was on the same programme last year and I have to admit it has grabbed my heart. I will be working in the Inchanga Primary school in Kwa Zulu Natal, but have been told ‘to expect the unexpected and to prepared to do anything’.” She added: “I am sure it is going to prove a very exciting ten weeks. I like the idea of getting out of my bubble and being able to exploring different cultures and countries, and best of all to feel I will be able to make a difference. “I am a Christian and I see this as part of my discipleship.

Christians are called to be a light to the world and to care for the poor. Sophie told me that it changed her life – it changes your outlook on everything” Tara’s interest has already had an impact on her current lifestyle, as she explained. “I am engaging in ‘Below the Line’ Challenge, which is seeking to arouse awareness of those who are living in poverty in the UK by trying to live on £1 a day.”

“This is not a fund raising exercise,” she added. “This is a solidarity challenge. I’d read about it before and wondered if I would be able to do it but the training I have received at Tearfund has opened my mind up to the way other people have to live. Now this has given the motivation to get stuck in and the training at Tearfund has really made me think a lot about poverty – I think its amazing what they do.” I hope to make a difference but I also hope it will open my mind to learn how other people live. I have given up my job but I am not too concerned about that I am trusting God 100% for the future “I am absolutely thrilled to see Tara wanting to serve God in this way,” said Pastor Rob James of Pembroke.

“Like her friend Sophie Merrix who is now working full time for Tearfund she is an inspiration to us all. I am convinced that the quickest way to finding a fulfilling life is to reach out to help those in need. “Selfishness is corrosive and destructive whereas caring for others is enriching and extremely rewarding. Tara will discover that as she steps out in faith and in her love for others

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

3 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

12 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

14 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.