News

Council urges public to be aware of scams

Published

10 years ago

January 21, 2015

Sandra MacSparron and Emma Hanlan-Baker from the Public Protection Trading Standards team at Pembrokeshire
County Council.

EVERY year, hundreds of thousands of pounds are estimated to have been lost in Pembrokeshire as a result of people being scammed. Many hundreds of people in the County fall victim to postal, phone or email scams annually – as well as rogue doorstep traders. Cllr Huw George, Cabinet Member for Enironmental and Regulatory Services said: “There are some heartbreaking stories of people in Pembrokeshire who have been targeted and caught out by these scammers, and have lost huge sums of money.”

As a result, the Trading Standards team at Pembrokeshire County Council has been working on specific ways of protecting people who are more vulnerable to being targeted. People of any age and background can be susceptible to fall for scams. Often they are elderly or live alone with no family nearby. Nigel Watts, Trading Standards, Animal Health and Welfare Manager said: “Unfortunately, criminals have put together lists of vulnerable people all over Britain and are selling them to scam companies.

“We have received a copy of this list from the National Trading Standards Board and our team has identified up to 300 people on it from Pembrokeshire who are potentially vulnerable. “We have been writing to them to ask if we can advise them on issues which may affect them.” He added: “We are also giving talks to local groups about how to spot a potential scam and are working with several partner organisations including social services, local banks, Age Concern, and PAVS.” Signs which indicate someone is being scammed include an increase in post. Once someone replies to one postal scam they will usually start receiving lots more. Some people can receive up to 50 letters a day.

Other signs include changes in spending – withdrawing large sums of money or writing lots of cheques – or receiving lots of phone calls. Nigel added: “If you think you or a member of your family is being scammed, come to us and we will assist. “We are especially keen for any family or carers of elderly people who think something might be wrong to contact us.

“Often, people don’t realise they are being scammed and it doesn’t come to light until a relative or carer notices something suspicious.” Nationally, £3.5 billion a year is lost through scams, including £60 million on fake prize draws. Sandra McSparron, Senior Trading Standards Officer, warned against being duped by letters, emails and phone calls about such draws.

She said: “Remember, if you have not entered a prize draw, then you have not won anything. “People in Pembrokeshire have lost tens of thousands of pounds on these fake prize draws and false inheritance scams. “Some people are tempted to take the risk. It’s the lure of the possibility of being set up for life. And if only one or two out of a thousand take the risk, then that’s worth it for the scammers. “Be warned – if it looks too good to be true, it always is.”

National work to clamp down on scams include an initiative by Royal Mail and the National Trading Standards Board Scams Team, which are working to identify scam mail and stop it entering the postal network. The team has already intercepted up to six tons of scam mail in Britain and £100,000 – and that’s the tip of the iceberg. Sandra continued: “Some people are taken in by rogue companies because they provide a UK address – but some scam companies buy mail forwarding addresses or a UK domain name, to make them appear to be UKbased, when they are actually based abroad.”

She added: “These people are unscrupulous. Businesses can also be targeted- receiving invoices for goods or services not agreed to, followed by threats from alleged debt collectors if payment is not made. “Unfortunately it is happening in Pembrokeshire. We’ve got a number of examples of it. Come and report it to us. We know it can cause a great deal of anxiety. There is advice that we can provide.”

Community

£4,000 metal Christmas tree divides opinion in Cardigan

Published

2 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A £4,000 metal Christmas tree in Cardigan has sparked heated debate among residents, with opinions ranging from admiration to outrage over the cost and design.

The tree, leased by the council for one month, is described by officials as a “modern festive centrepiece,” intended to enhance the town’s holiday charm. At night, its illuminated frame has been praised as a striking addition to Cardigan’s streetscape. However, critics argue the daytime view reveals a less appealing “builders’ yard aesthetic.”

On social media, opinions are sharply divided. Some residents, like Francesca Loveday, appreciated the tree, saying it had attracted children and added to the festive atmosphere. “The whole town looks lovely at night with the lights and lanterns,” commented Wendy Yates.

However, others criticized the expenditure, especially during tough economic times. “It’s basically scaffolding poles with lights draped over it,” remarked Michelle Hughes, adding that it’s an “absolute eyesore” during the day.

Value for money questioned

Several residents expressed concern about the cost. “£4,000 for this? It’s outrageous!” said one local. Others suggested alternative ways the money could have been spent, such as funding community projects or supporting vulnerable groups.

Councillor Mal Evans defended the decision, stating that the tree aligns with efforts to modernize the town’s decorations and draw more visitors during the festive season. “Shops and businesses have worked hard to bring a fabulous Christmas display to the town,” he said. “This tree is part of that vision.”

In addition to debates over aesthetics and cost, safety concerns have been raised. Resident Anthony Probert warned of potential hazards, describing the tree as a “health and safety nightmare” due to its exposed electric components and climbable frame.

Mixed reviews on festive efforts

Despite the controversy surrounding the tree, many agree that Cardigan’s overall Christmas display is impressive. The decorated shopfronts, lanterns, and lights have been widely praised, even by those who dislike the tree.

The council has yet to comment on whether the £4,000 investment will result in savings or additional benefits in future years, but for now, the metal tree remains the focal point of festive—and fiery—debate in Cardigan.

Entertainment

Valero supports Torch Theatre’s boldest pantomime yet

Published

2 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WITH just a week to go before the festive pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk opens its curtains, the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven is proud to announce Valero Energy Corporation as its pantomime sponsor for 2024.

Attracting around 10,000 attendees annually, the Torch’s pantomime has become a cornerstone of Pembrokeshire’s festive season. Last year’s production of Sleeping Beauty set new audience records, and this year’s show promises even greater excitement.

Community engagement through theatre
The pantomime is not only a spectacle but also a significant educational opportunity. Approximately 4,000 schoolchildren and teachers are expected to attend, with tailored educational packs distributed to schools to enhance the experience. Public performances draw over 6,000 enthusiastic audience members, creating a lively atmosphere filled with singing, clapping, and cheering.

Chelsey Gillard, Artistic Director of the Torch Theatre, expressed her gratitude for Valero’s support:
“We are thrilled to be working with Valero to bring the magic of pantomime to the Torch once again. This support allows us to keep ticket prices affordable, ensuring the festive spirit reaches communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Tickets are selling fast, especially during Christmas week, and we look forward to welcoming everyone.”

Valero’s commitment to the arts
Founded in 1980, Valero Energy Corporation is the world’s largest independent petroleum refiner and a global leader in renewable energy. Since acquiring Pembroke Refinery in 2011, the company has fostered strong ties with the local community.

“This year marks the 60th anniversary of Pembroke Refinery, which has a long tradition of supporting the arts in Pembrokeshire,” said Stephen Thornton, Valero Pembroke Refinery’s Public Affairs Manager.
“There’s no finer tradition at Christmas than pantomime. Jack and the Beanstalk is a firm family favourite, and we’re thrilled to support this season’s production at the Torch. Excellence and inclusivity are at the heart of Valero’s ethos, aligning perfectly with the Torch Theatre’s family-friendly productions.”

A festive tradition for all
Chelsey added: “Panto is the most vibrant part of our year at the Torch, and we are so excited to be working with Valero on Jack and the Beanstalk. A huge thank you to everyone at Valero for their generous support.”

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the Torch Theatre from Friday, December 13, to Sunday, December 29, with matinee and evening performances. Tickets are priced at £23.50, £19.50 for concessions, or £75 for a family ticket. Special performances include a Relaxed Environment show on Saturday, December 14, at 2:00pm, and a BSL-supported show on Tuesday, December 17, at 6:00pm.

For tickets and more information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

Bringing magic to life: The Torch Theatre’s bold pantomime supported by Valero Energy Corporation. (Image: Chris Lloyd Photography)

News

Police bundle away sex offender after large protest in Hubberston

Published

8 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AROUND 70 residents of Wentworth Close and surrounding streets protested last night (Tuesday, December 3) against a man released on bail after pleading guilty to possessing child abuse images.

Jamie Hughes, 34, who admitted in court earlier in the day to possessing over 400 Category A images — the most severe type — remained on bail in their neighbourhood, prompting outrage among the community. Hughes also admitted to possessing 236 Category B and 886 Category C images.

**Armed response officers on standby in Wentworth Close on Tuesday night (Pic: Herald)**

The protest saw residents expressing their anger and demanding action. Police intervened to maintain order, eventually placing Hughes in a van and removing him from the area.

Earlier yesterday, Hughes appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to offences involving indecent images of children. The offences occurred over a five-year period, between May 1, 2018, and November 29, 2023, and were uncovered at his home on Wentworth Close.

Due to the seriousness of the offences, the magistrates declined jurisdiction, referring the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on Christmas Eve.

Hughes was released on unconditional bail and will be placed on the sex offender’s register.

The decision to release Hughes on bail sparked immediate anger among residents, who voiced concerns about safety. Protesters gathered outside his home, calling for stricter measures to protect the community.

One resident said: “It’s horrifying to know someone like this was allowed back into our street after admitting such serious crimes.”

Police have confirmed they moved Hughes to another location but declined to provide further details, citing operational reasons.

Hughes will face sentencing on December 24 at Swansea Crown Court, where a judge is expected to determine the appropriate punishment for the offences.