There is something particularly special about watching a children’s cast take to the stage, and Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight, presented by Torch Youth Theatre, was a wonderful example of just how much talent, enthusiasm and confidence young performers can bring to a show.

Running at the Torch Theatre from Monday, July 20 to Thursday, July 23, the production offers a brand-new retelling of the timeless Robin Hood legend, transporting audiences into the heart of Sherwood Forest.

The story follows Robin Hood, Maid Marian and a host of familiar characters as they fight for freedom against the tyranny of Queen Eleanor and the ruthless Sheriff of Nottingham. With daring escapes, a legendary archery contest and the mysterious presence of the Black Knight, there is plenty to keep audiences entertained.

From the outset, the production felt well organised and ran remarkably smoothly, with no noticeable hiccups. The set was simple and minimalistic, which worked particularly well. Rather than distracting from the action, it provided an effective backdrop that allowed the cast and story to remain the focus.

The lighting was another real highlight. It was beautifully executed throughout, helping to establish the mood and tone of each scene while adding to the overall atmosphere of the production. The timing was excellent, and there were no noticeable technical issues.

The costumes were also a real highlight and helped bring the characters and story to life. They were well designed, colourful and suited the production perfectly, adding to the overall visual appeal of the show. It was clear that a lot of thought had gone into making sure each character looked the part.

The props were also well chosen and surprisingly realistic. One particular detail that caught my attention was the Ring of Power, which looked wonderfully sparkly under the stage lights and added a lovely touch of magic to the production.

The sound was generally clear, and the children did an excellent job of projecting their voices. There were a few moments when the sound seemed to drift slightly, and some lines were harder to hear when there was additional commotion happening on stage. However, this was only a minor issue, and overall the cast communicated confidently and clearly.

The performances themselves were a real strength of the show. While the entire cast deserves credit for the effort and commitment they brought to their roles, a few performers particularly stood out. Maid Marian was absolutely brilliant and showed an impressive level of confidence and natural ability. She is clearly a very promising young performer, and it would be wonderful to see where her talent takes her in the future.

The adult Robin Hood was also excellent and, in my opinion, perfectly cast. Together, they provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase two very talented performers, and both certainly rose to the occasion.

The comic relief was another highlight, with some genuinely entertaining moments throughout. The brief singing with the ukulele, along with Steven’s contribution, brought plenty of fun and energy to the production and added to the enjoyment of the audience.

What impressed me most, however, was the confidence and commitment of the entire cast. Every performer played their part with enthusiasm, and I was particularly impressed by how well the younger children handled themselves on stage. It is no small achievement to perform in front of an audience, and they should all be incredibly proud of themselves.

The inclusion of Welsh-speaking elements was also a lovely touch. It fitted naturally into the production and added a sense of local identity, making the show feel particularly well suited to its setting.

Away from the stage, the theatre itself was clean and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a good selection of snacks and drinks available, including during the interval. These small touches helped make the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable.

Perhaps the greatest compliment I can give the production is the atmosphere in the theatre. Throughout the performance, the audience appeared completely at ease and engaged. It was lovely to see families enjoying the show together, with siblings cuddling up and parents sitting back, relaxed and entertained.

Overall, Robin Hood: The Legend of the Black Knight was a thoroughly enjoyable production that showcased an impressive amount of young talent. The cast performed with confidence, energy and enthusiasm, supported by effective lighting, a well designed set, fantastic costumes and some lovely production details.

There was a real sense of warmth and community throughout the evening, and it was clear how much work had gone into bringing the production to life.

With tickets priced at £10, or £8 for concessions, the production offers an affordable opportunity for families to enjoy a night of live theatre while supporting the next generation of young performers.

A huge well done to everyone involved, including the cast, crew and everyone behind the scenes. You should all be incredibly proud of what you have achieved.

Tickets are available on the Torch Theatre website.

Stephen Kinnock has been named the new Secretary of State for Wales after Prime Minister Andy Burnham unveiled his first Cabinet reshuffle, replacing Jo Stevens following two years in the post.

The appointment comes as the new Prime Minister continues to shape his government after entering Downing Street, with the Wales Office among a number of departments seeing changes at ministerial level.

Mr Kinnock, the Labour MP for Aberafan Maesteg, takes over responsibility for representing Welsh interests at the Cabinet table and overseeing the UK Government’s relationship with the Welsh Government.

The 55-year-old has served in Parliament since 2015 and has held a number of ministerial positions. Before joining the Cabinet, he served as a minister in both the Home Office and the Department of Health and Social Care, where he was involved in immigration, public health and NHS-related policy.

He is also well known as the son of former Labour leader Neil Kinnock, one of Wales’ most prominent political figures, and former European Commissioner Glenys Kinnock.

Mr Kinnock replaces Jo Stevens, who has served as Secretary of State for Wales since 2024. During her tenure she worked on issues including economic investment, the transition to green energy, rail infrastructure and cooperation between the UK and Welsh Governments.

The change follows Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s first Cabinet reshuffle since taking office, with several senior ministerial appointments announced as he begins setting out the priorities of his new administration.

As Secretary of State for Wales, Mr Kinnock will be expected to play a key role in discussions over economic growth, energy, transport, the future of the steel industry, and constitutional matters affecting Wales. He is also likely to be heavily involved in negotiations between Westminster and Cardiff Bay as the Burnham Government develops its agenda.

His appointment will be closely watched across Wales, including in Pembrokeshire, where businesses, local authorities and public services will be looking for signs of how the new Government intends to deliver on its promises for investment, infrastructure and economic development.

Further announcements on the new Government’s programme are expected in the coming days.

Detectives say it was “pure good fortune” the victim did not suffer even more serious injuries during the classroom attack

POLICE have praised the bravery of a teacher who was attacked with a knife at Milford Haven Comprehensive School, saying the emotional impact of the incident “cannot be underestimated”.

A 16-year-old boy was convicted at Swansea Crown Court of wounding with intent and unlawful wounding following the attack on Thursday, February 5.

The jury cleared him of attempted murder. He had previously pleaded guilty to possessing a knife.

The teenager, who cannot be identified because of his age, was 15 when the incident took place.

At approximately 3.20pm, he approached the teacher and asked for assistance with schoolwork before following her into a classroom.

He then attacked her while armed with a knife.

The teacher managed to disarm the pupil despite sustaining injuries which required hospital treatment. She later recovered from her physical injuries.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers and other emergency services swiftly attended the school, where pupils and staff were safeguarded and a lockdown was put in place.

The teenager was traced and arrested shortly afterwards. He was charged on February 7 and remanded in custody ahead of his trial.

Following the verdicts, Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Sarah Totterdale commended the victim for attending court and giving evidence about the attack.

She said: “Firstly, I would like to commend the bravery shown by the victim in this case.

“What happened to her on February 5 must have been a truly terrifying ordeal, so to have to attend court and relive that experience has taken exceptional courage.

“It is thanks to pure good fortune that she did not sustain even worse injuries, but the emotional impact cannot be underestimated.

“We would like to thank her for her assistance throughout this investigation.”

DI Totterdale said the incident had also deeply affected pupils, teachers and the wider Milford Haven community.

She added: “This incident understandably had a profound impact on other students and teachers at Milford Haven Comprehensive School, as well as the wider community.

“Fortunately, we were able to promptly attend the school, ensure the safeguarding of pupils and teachers, and apprehend the offender.”

She also thanked the emergency services, school staff, parents, pupils, Pembrokeshire County Council and members of the community for their support and patience during the investigation and subsequent court proceedings.

DI Totterdale said: “I hope that, with the trial now concluded, the victim in this case can begin to obtain some closure from this incident, and that Milford Haven Comprehensive School can continue passionately teaching, learning and thriving together in a safe environment.”

The teenager will return to Swansea Crown Court to be sentenced on Thursday, September 3.