News
New heath boss completes ‘induction day’


Getting to know you: Stephen
Moore of the NHS
Hywel Dda University Health Board’s new Chief Executive got to know the organisation and its staff a little better as he took part in an Induction Day with fellow new starters on Monday 5 January, the organisation has said. Steve Moore was recently appointed to the post following a career largely based within the NHS, much of it in rural areas. He experience includes an appointment as Chief Executive of the both Cornwall and Devon Primary Care Trust clusters, and Consulting Director for Health and Social Care Policy for ICF International.
On his first day in post, Mr Moore and all other induction attendees had an opportunity to learn more about the NHS in Wales; the structure and useful internal processes in the UHB; as well as specialist sessions on issues such as patient experience, practical basic emergency first aid and the Welsh language.
“I was fortunate to meet some fellow new starters yesterday, which was a great opportunity as they will take up posts in various locations across the University Health Board in a number of different professions and I hope to stay in touch with them,” said Mr Moore. “It will take me a little longer to get round our entire 10,000 staff and geographical area – but I do have and look forward to visits to our wards and community services scheduled in the coming weeks.”
Mr Moore paid tribute to local NHS staff and stressed his intention to work closely with them as well as with patients, the general public and stakeholders, in a welcome bulletin to staff. “The NHS is built by the staff who deliver it for people who need help and I believe it is my job, and that of the Board, to support the front line to be as good as it can be for our patients,” he said.
“To do this, we need strong and effective clinical engagement – allowing our clinicians to drive and develop the services that they deliver every day. We also need a strong and honest relationship with the public. There are challenges that we need to share with them – our current financial position is testament to that – as our patients are our most important stakeholders in the NHS.
“We cannot ignore changes in clinical practice, or the effect of an ageing population, and must look at new and creative ways of working if we are to protect our ability to deliver great care. I understand the importance of delivering as much care locally as it is safe to do so, having worked in rural counties for much of my NHS career. I am delighted to be here in Wales – such a beautiful country – and I’m looking forward to getting to know it and the people better.”
Community
Residents thanked as Carmarthen gas works completed on time

ESSENTIAL upgrade works to gas pipes in King Street, Carmarthen, have been completed on time and to plan, Wales & West Utilities has confirmed.
The project, which began in early January, was part of the company’s programme to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for homes and businesses in the area—now and for years to come.
The company worked closely with Carmarthenshire County Council to coordinate traffic management throughout the scheme and minimise disruption.
Adam Smith, who managed the project for Wales & West Utilities, thanked local residents and traders for their patience.
He said: “We’d like to thank the local community for bearing with us while we completed this essential work.
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in everyday life—from heating homes and cooking meals to running hot baths. We understand how important it is that the supply is safe, reliable and there when you need it.
“This work will keep gas flowing safely to homes and businesses today, while also helping to prepare the network to carry hydrogen and biomethane in future, supporting the journey to a greener energy system.”
Crime
Tenby man charged after robbery incident

A MAN is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court next month after being charged in connection with a late-night incident in Tenby town centre.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that no one was injured during the disturbance, which took place at a restaurant in Tudor Square on the evening of Sunday, March 30.
Mohammed Miah, aged 44, has been charged with robbery, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and criminal damage.
He appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court earlier this month, where he was remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, May 2.
Farming
Pembrokeshire Show elects first joint presidents

DAIRY FARMERS TIM AND MARGARET JOHNS HONOURED BY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
HAVERFORDWEST dairy farmers Tim and Margaret Johns have been unanimously elected as the first joint Presidents of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society.
The couple, who farm at Pencnwc in partnership with their son Graham, represent the third generation of their family to work the land. Their 550-acre holding in Castlemorris includes dairy cattle and the cultivation of both winter and spring cereals.
Margaret and Tim have a long-standing association with the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society and the County Show. Margaret, in particular, has achieved considerable success in equestrian showing at events including Royal Windsor, the Great Yorkshire Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show. She also founded and continues to run Castlemorris Equestrian and Pet Supplies from the farm.
Speaking following their appointment, Tim said: “Margaret and I work as a partnership. The County Show is a major part of Pembrokeshire and is an integral part of farming in the county. We are looking forward to the year ahead. We have chosen RABI and the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society as our charities to support over the next 12 months.”
During the Society’s Annual General Meeting, held recently at the Pembrokeshire Showground, Mr and Mrs James Evans were voted in as Presidents Elect.
Other appointments for 2025 include Miss Alys Owens, who was named as the Society’s Ambassador. Alys, who lives in Haverfordwest and works for Castell Howell, is an active member of Llysyfran YFC. She served as Club Secretary last year, a role for which she was named Club Secretary of the Year at County level. A talented musician, Alys plays the cornet with Goodwick Brass Band.
Outgoing President Adam Thorne used the occasion to thank all those who had supported him during his term in office.
Alys Owens, the 2025 Ambassador, is pictured between Margaret and Tim Johns, the 2025/26 Joint Presidents.
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