DYFED-POWYS POLICE cyclists will ride 75 hilly miles across Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire next week in a first-of-its-kind charity event for the force.

Around 35 riders will take part in The Chief’s Tour on Wednesday (May 6), raising money for Care of Police Survivors (COPS), a charity which supports the families of police officers and police staff who have died on duty.

The route will begin at St Mary’s Church in Fishguard at around 8:00am, before heading south through Pembrokeshire to Tenby and finishing at police headquarters in Carmarthen. The ride is expected to take between eight and 11 hours.

The event will also commemorate officers and staff who died while serving with Dyfed-Powys Police.

Chief Constable Ifan Charles said: “This event is a moment for communities, Dyfed-Powys Police, and families to come together to remember officers and staff whose lives were sadly cut short – and ensure their memory lives on.

“It would be fantastic to see people showing their support along the route, and we welcome cyclists to join us along the way.”

Scheduled stops will include St Mary’s Church, Fishguard, at around 8:00am, Newgale beach at 9:40am, Narberth Road layby in Tenby at 1:45pm, and Cana Cemetery, Banc-y-felin, Carmarthenshire, at 4:05pm.

Mr Charles added: “It was important to me to build moments of reflection into the route to make sure we remember the Dyfed-Powys Police officers who never made it home.

“Each name we reflect upon represents dedication, courage, and the highest standard of service to the public. They remind us of what it means to put the safety of others before our own, and of the risks inherent in the oath police officers take.”

The tour is aiming to raise £1,000 for COPS. More than £600 has already been donated.

Anyone wishing to support the team can donate through the JustGiving page for Dyfed Powys Police Cyclists.

NEW EQUIPMENT TO BOOST COASTAL CLEAN-UP EFFORTS

THE PEMBROKESHIRE COAST CHARITABLE TRUST has thanked the Blakemore Foundation for funding new litter-picking equipment to support beach cleaning efforts across the county.

The equipment will be used during regular beach cleans organised by the Trust, helping volunteers and business groups safely remove waste from some of Pembrokeshire’s most popular and environmentally important beaches.

The Trust said the donation would make a real difference to its coastal conservation work, particularly as more local businesses look for practical ways to support the environment.

Abi Marriot, Funding Officer for the Trust, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Blakemore Foundation for their support. Their contribution enables us to equip participants properly, making every clean more impactful. It’s a real boost for our coastal conservation efforts.

“Our recent business-led beach cleans have proved popular, offering teams a refreshing break from the office, a chance to work together in a different environment, and a meaningful way to demonstrate their organisation’s commitment to sustainability.

“Many companies tell us that taking part strengthens team bonds while contributing to visible, positive environmental action.”

The new kit will be used at the next Pembrokeshire Business Big Beach Clean, which will take place at Freshwater West on Thursday, June 4, from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

The event will give local businesses the chance to work together, connect with other organisations, and help protect one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic stretches of coastline.

The Trust is also welcoming suggestions for future autumn clean-up locations as it plans its next focus areas.

Booking for the Freshwater West event is essential. Businesses wishing to take part can reserve a place by contacting Abi at [email protected] or calling 07773 788196.

PEOPLE VISITING THE COAST ARE BEING URGED TO CHECK TIDE TIMES AS SPRING TIDES ARE EXPECTED OVER THE MAY BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

THE RNLI has issued a tidal safety warning ahead of the bank holiday weekend following an increase in people being cut off by the tide.

The charity is urging anyone planning coastal walks or beach visits over the next few days to be cautious, check tide times before setting out, and make sure they have a way of calling for help.

The warning comes after RNLI crews rescued a man at Rhossili, on Gower, Swansea, on Saturday morning after he was cut off by the incoming tide at Worms Head.

Both Horton and Port Eynon RNLI lifeboat stations responded to the incident and the man was safely brought back to Rhossili.

Chris Cousens, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, said: “With the May bank holiday a prime opportunity for coastal walks, it’s important to be safe.

“Tide times and heights vary throughout the month, and the incoming tide can easily leave people stranded, requiring assistance.

“There will be spring tides over this coming weekend, meaning a greater difference between low and high tide. At high tide, the water comes in further and can move faster than on smaller tides.

“On bigger tides, places will be cut off by the tide more quickly than normal and places usually unaffected by the tide may also be cut off.

“If you find yourself, or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Tirion Dowsett, Water Safety Delivery Support, said anyone visiting the coast should check tide times before travelling.

She said: “If you are planning on visiting the coast over the next few days, check the tide times before you go.

“If you can’t understand the information on tide tables, ask people who know the area and pay attention to any safety signs.

“Always carry a means of calling for help, like a fully charged mobile phone.

“If you do get into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

The RNLI is also reminding people of its Float to Live advice for anyone who gets into difficulty in the water.

Anyone struggling in the water should tilt their head back with their ears submerged, relax, and float on their back with their arms and legs spread out like a starfish.

Once breathing is under control, they should signal for help by shouting and waving.