A LIGHTHOUSE beacon that has guided more than a billion metric tons of shipping over six decades into the Port of Milford Haven has undergone a major refit.

The Mid Channel Rock lighthouse, bedded on an undersea reef and known by mariners as ‘the Pole’, has endured Atlantic storms for over nearly 60 years to warn ships of shallow rocks at the entrance to the Port of Milford Haven. In recent years it has also provided extensive weather and sea condition information to commercial and leisure sailors using the UK’s leading energy port.

The multi-million-pound project, led by engineers at the Port of Milford Haven, saw a 25 tonne steel sleeve lowered over the tower and strengthened with infill to reinforce the structure. One of the tripod legs that are drilled into the seabed to support the column was also reinforced and new electrical systems and weather monitoring equipment were fitted.

Shan McGarty, the Port’s Project Manager leading the scheme, explained: “This project has been long in the planning, taking several years to move from initial concept to completion due to the complexity of the task. Once works began they were delivered relatively swiftly despite the difficult working conditions we faced, including strong winds and heavy seas.”

“It is our job to ensure the safe navigation of these waters for everyone that uses them and that’s why an investment such as this is top of our priorities,” explained the Port of Milford Haven’s Harbourmaster, Mike Ryan. “Not only is the Mid Channel Rock lighthouse a highly visible mark for all, it’s also an essential part of our weather and sea monitoring systems helping us plan shipping movements,” he said.

“And for sailors coming from often heavy seas, this historic marker will continue to stand proud as a welcome to the sheltered harbour at the Port of Milford Haven for many years to come.” Mike added. 

IN a historic move for the local Catholic community in the region, Archbishop Mark O’Toole has announced the creation of the new Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia.

This decision, promulgated by Pope Francis today (Sept 12), coincides with the Feast of the Holy Name of Mary, and signals a new chapter for Catholics in South Wales and Herefordshire.

The Archbishop expressed his deep gratitude to Pope Francis for his swift decision, interpreting it as a mark of confidence from the Vatican. The creation of the united archdiocese follows a series of Open Listening Sessions earlier this year, during which both clergy and laity discussed the potential merger. The announcement will be read in churches across the region over the weekend of 14th-15th September.

In his pastoral letter to the faithful, Archbishop O’Toole drew inspiration from the Virgin Mary, who he described as the “first missionary disciple.” He encouraged the community to follow her example of faith and service as they embark on this new journey. “We are called to continue walking together on the path of the Gospel, deepening our relationship with Jesus,” the Archbishop wrote, urging the faithful to embrace Christ’s mission through acts of service.

The Archbishop’s pastoral letter further reflected on Mary’s role in both the joyful and sorrowful moments of Christ’s life. He emphasised her presence on the Way of the Cross and her deep understanding of the human experience, urging the community to follow her example in their own lives by embracing both joy and sorrow with faith.

The decision to unite the dioceses also comes as the global Church prepares for the Jubilee Year, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.” Archbishop O’Toole noted that Mary was the first “Pilgrim of Hope,” bringing Jesus to others with openness and courage. He encouraged the faithful to seek Mary’s guidance in growing closer to Jesus and sharing His love with those who do not yet know Him.

In his letter, Archbishop O’Toole offered a prayer to Mary, asking for her intercession in helping the new Archdiocese live out its mission. He called on the community to be “Pilgrims of Hope” in today’s world, embodying Mary’s love and compassion for all, especially those in need.

The formation of the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia represents a significant moment in the history of the Church in the region, as it seeks to build on the legacy of both dioceses and move forward with renewed purpose and mission. Archbishop O’Toole’s message reflects a vision of unity and hope, urging the faithful to look to the future with courage, inspired by the example of the Virgin Mary.

In closing, Archbishop O’Toole asked for the prayers of the faithful, concluding with a heartfelt blessing for all.

THE Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is proud to announce that one of its flagship attractions, Carew Castle, and its dedicated Activities and Events team have been shortlisted for several prestigious awards at the 2024 Croeso Awards. Organised by Visit Pembrokeshire, these awards recognise excellence across the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors, highlighting businesses and organisations that deliver exceptional experiences for visitors.

Carew Castle, operated by the National Park Authority, scooped the award for the Best Attraction for a second time in last year’s Croeso Awards, as well as winning the Sustainable Tourism Award. This year, it is a finalist in three major categories: Best Attraction, Bro a Byd (Environmental and Sustainability), and Best Event. This is a remarkable achievement for the Authority, which has consistently placed sustainability and visitor experience at the heart of its operations.

One of Carew Castle’s standout events, FIRE! The Launch of the Giant Trebuchet, has secured a nomination for the Best Event Award. This unique event, which brings medieval siege warfare to life, features the only working trebuchet in Wales and drew enthusiastic crowds from far and wide over the summer months. Following a talk by an expert historian on its fascinating history and mechanics, a series of unusual projectiles—including a cabbage, a swede, and, most memorably, a giant watermelon—are catapulted towards the Millpond, much to the delight of the audience.

In an exciting twist, Carew Castle will compete in the Best Event category against other events organised by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s Activities and Events team – the Wonders of the Night Sky event at Castell Henllys and the Biofluorescent Night Walk at Pengelli Woods.

As part of Dark Sky Week Wales, the Wonders of the Night Sky event combined stargazing and storytelling around a fire, with local storyteller Alice Courvoisier sharing ancient myths about the stars. The Biofluorescent Night Walk, led by Reveal Nature and Ranger Richard Vaughan, guided participants through Pengelli Woods using UV torches to show the fluorescent beauty of this ancient woodland and its nocturnal creatures. Both events were supported by the Authority’s Dark Sky Officer, Jamie Taylor.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s Director of Nature and Tourism, James Parkin, said: “We are thrilled to be recognized for our efforts in delivering world-class visitor experiences that highlight the unique natural beauty and rich heritage of Pembrokeshire. Whether it’s the spectacle of a medieval trebuchet at Carew Castle or the wonders of our Dark Sky events, the National Park always offers something new and exciting for visitors of all ages. These nominations reflect our commitment to providing engaging, sustainable activities that make Pembrokeshire a truly exceptional destination all year round.”

The 2024 Croeso Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, 30 October, at Pembrokeshire College, where winners will be revealed, and Pembrokeshire’s top contributors to tourism and sustainability will be celebrated.

To find out more about events throughout the National Park over coming months, visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events.