Community

Mayor praises Milford Haven’s community spirit in Christmas message

Published

6 months ago

December 24, 2025

THE MAYOR of Milford Haven has paid tribute to the town’s strong community spirit, volunteers and charities in his Christmas message to residents.

Councillor William D. Elliott said it continued to be a “huge privilege and pleasure” to serve as Mayor and First Citizen of Milford Haven, praising the range of events and activities that bring people together throughout the year.

He highlighted the work of many local organisations, including Milford Haven Round Table, Milford Haven Business Circle, Milford Haven Town Band, Torch Theatre, Boulevard Theatre, St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, St David’s Church Hubberston, the Port of Milford Haven, Pill Social Centre, Milford Haven Branch of the Royal British Legion, Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, community centres in Hubberston and Hakin, local scout and youth groups, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society and the Megan’s Starr Foundation, among many others.

The Mayor said these groups continue to grow from strength to strength, benefiting not only Milford Haven but surrounding communities as well.

“Community cohesion and working together is key to our success,” he said. “We benefit greatly from the expertise and skills that each group brings, and many simply could not operate without the dedication and commitment of volunteers.”

Councillor Elliott thanked volunteers for their efforts during 2025 and encouraged residents to continue supporting local charities and not-for-profit groups through donations and involvement.

He also reflected on the town’s Citizens Awards, which he presented in June, describing it as humbling to recognise volunteers who make a significant difference locally. Residents were encouraged to submit nominations when the awards reopen in April and May.

The Mayor paid special tribute to the Megan’s Starr Foundation following its success in achieving a King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

“This is the highest award given to local volunteering groups in the UK, equivalent to an MBE,” he said. “For one of our own community organisations to receive such an honour is outstanding and reflects the hard work and determination of so many volunteers. Many congratulations to all involved.”

Reflecting on the meaning of Christmas, Councillor Elliott said it represents love, giving, respect and hope, values he believes Milford Haven demonstrates throughout the year, particularly in supporting those in need.

He also highlighted the annual Christmas Together event held on Christmas Day, which he and his Consort, Lloyd, will again attend.

“This event perfectly captures the spirit of our town by offering companionship and care to those who might otherwise be alone,” he said. “It shows Milford Haven at its very best, and the volunteers who give their time year after year truly make a difference.”

Councillor Elliott also thanked residents for supporting his Mayor’s Charity fundraising over the past eighteen months.

Concluding his message, he said: “On behalf of Lloyd and I, and all our Town Councillors, we would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.”

Community

Councillors needed for Kilgetty and Begelly Community Council

Published

16 hours ago

June 27, 2026

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A PEMBROKESHIRE community council, which only has half its council seats filled, is calling for anyone interested in becoming a councillor to think about joining it.

Kilgetty and Begelly Community Council which cover areas such as Reynalton, Thomas Chapel, Begelly and also Kilgetty, is on the lookout for new members, having six vacant seats out of 12.

Peter Adams, Vice-Chair said: “The community council currently has six vacancies for our council, and would very much like to hear from anyone who may be interested in becoming more involved in community matters.

“The only commitment asked, is for a monthly meeting at the Kilgetty community centre on the second Thursday of the month to assist in decision making in the community, apart from the summer break which is usually in August when there is no meeting.”

He added: “KBCC council has 12 seats for councillors to represent the community covering the areas of Reynalton, Thomas Chapel and Kilgetty-Begelly; in recent years councillors have left for various reason due to retirement and other commitments etc, leaving us currently with six people.

“A lot has been achieved in the community in the last two years with a new park being opened, and now the completion of the ownership of the community centre the council feel that we need to encourage new people to come forward with ideas, and to also assist in the running of the increasing community facilities.”

Anyone interested please contact the council’s clerk Gary Price using the council’s website (www.kilgettybegellycouncil.co.uk) or phone 07984991520.

Community

HOPE MS Therapy Centre celebrates 40 years of support in Pembrokeshire

Published

23 hours ago

June 26, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A special evening of music and celebration marked four decades of service by HOPE MS Therapy Centre, one of Pembrokeshire’s longest-serving self-funding charities.

THE ANNIVERSARY concert took place on Friday evening (June 26) at St Clement’s Church, Neyland, bringing together supporters, trustees, local councillors and members of the community to celebrate the charity’s 40th year.

Founded in 1986, HOPE MS Therapy Centre provides support and therapies for people living with multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions across Pembrokeshire. The organisation has operated as a self-funding charity throughout its history, relying heavily on fundraising and community support.

Guests enjoyed performances from the Quaynotes Mixed Choir, along with acclaimed soloist Sarah Arthur, in what organisers described as an evening of music, song and thanksgiving.

Among those attending was Pembroke Mayor Jonathan Grimes, who praised the charity’s contribution to the county. He was joined by fellow county councillors and trustees including Simon Wright and Simon Hancock MBE.

Writing after the event, Cllr Grimes said: “Thank you to HOPE MS Therapy Centre for inviting me as Mayor of Pembroke to this evening’s concert to celebrate 40 years of service to Pembrokeshire.

“It was great to see my fellow county councillors and members of the trustee board as well as enjoying a fabulous performance from Quaynotes Mixed Choir and the fabulous soloist Sarah Arthur.

“Congratulations to HOPE MS Therapy Centre. I’m looking forward to being involved with the other events you have planned to celebrate 40 years.”

The concert is one of a series of events planned to mark the charity’s milestone anniversary year.

HOPE MS Therapy Centre continues to support people from across Pembrokeshire, providing therapies, advice and a vital social network for those affected by multiple sclerosis and related conditions.

Community

Fishguard joins Eisteddfod celebrations as Lord Rhys procession arrives in town

Published

1 day ago

June 26, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Giant puppet procession brings Welsh history and culture to the streets ahead of this summer’s National Eisteddfod

FISGHUARD and Goodwick joined the celebrations today as the spectacular Carreg Filltir Las procession brought the story of Lord Rhys to north Pembrokeshire.

Residents lined the streets as a giant puppet of the 12th-century Welsh prince, created by Small World Theatre, made its way through the community as part of the build-up to this summer’s National Eisteddfod.

The procession commemorates 850 years since Lord Rhys hosted what is widely regarded as the first Eisteddfod at Cardigan Castle in 1176.

Fishguard was one of the stops on the route, with families, local residents and Welsh language supporters turning out to welcome the larger-than-life figure as it passed through the town.

Organisers say the project aims to connect communities across the Eisteddfod area while celebrating Welsh language, culture and heritage.

The procession forms part of the build-up to Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las, which will be held in north Pembrokeshire from August 1 to 8.

The festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors and will showcase Welsh music, literature, performance, art and culture.

The Lord Rhys journey has already visited communities across west Wales and will culminate in Cardigan, the historic birthplace of the Eisteddfod tradition.

Photo caption:

Crowds gathered in Fishguard as the Lord Rhys procession passed through the town as part of the build-up to the 2026 National Eisteddfod.