News

New heath boss completes ‘induction day’

Published

11 years ago

January 21, 2015

Tom Sinclair

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

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

6 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

6 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

6 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.