A PHOTOGRAPH has come to light of the first owner of ‘Charlie’, the 100-year-old ventriloquist’s doll who was a star turn when Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre opened for the new season last month.

On the opening day (Mar 30), Gerald Williams, a member of the Carew Cheriton Control Tower team, brought along a group photo which features both Charlie’s then owner, Ernie James, and Gerald’s father, Hubert.

It was the first time Paul Elliott, Charlie’s current ‘minder’, had seen a photo of Ernie, who was at one-time very well known as a local entertainer.

“This has made my day,” said Paul. “It is great to see a photo of Ernie, who originally acquired Charlie over 100 years ago.”

Gerald added: “Both Ernie and my father were involved at one time with a travelling cinema, visiting communities all over this area. 

“Ernie had his own small bus company called Pioneer Buses. This is where dad first met Ernie during driver exchanges during the war. They also worked together for Silcox Bus Company at Pembroke Dock.”

Charlie currently sits in a neat glass case keeping a watchful eye over visitors and volunteers at the Heritage Centre.

While the photograph has solved one mystery, another remains. Ernie is believed to have had another ventriloquist’s doll, named Daisy May. Anyone with information on Daisy May is asked to contact the Heritage Centre on 01646 684220 or [email protected] 

Pembrokeshire law firm confirms internal promotion after Lauren joined the business as a paralegal in 2024

LAUREN CLEWES has been promoted to trainee solicitor at Eaton-Evans and Morris Solicitors.

Lauren joined the firm in 2024 as a paralegal, working first with Helen Hodges and later with Pauline Mainwaring. Over the coming months, she will work alongside the firm’s fee earners across all departments as part of her training.

Sean Dyer, one of the firm’s directors (pictured), offered his congratulations on her promotion.

COMEDIAN Elis James will take to the Pavilion stage at the National Eisteddfod for the first time this year, performing on Wednesday, August 5 as part of the festival programme. Entry to the gig is included in the Maes day ticket, and with strong roots in the area, his return promises an evening of laughter and a warm homecoming atmosphere.

Famous for making quick connections with people from across Wales on his podcast ‘Elis & John’ on BBC Sounds, Elis will no doubt receive a warm welcome at the National Eisteddfod, arguably one of the best places in the world to connect with fellow Welsh people. With his observational comedy, often inspired by his upbringing in west Wales, this is expected to be an evening full of humour, marking the halfway point of the Eisteddfod week.

Elis said: “I’m very excited. I’ve never done stand-up in the Pavilion before. Mam will be there, I’m sure other members of the family will be there too, but don’t worry, I’m one of those people who is funny under pressure!”

Betsan Moses, the Eisteddfod’s Chief Executive, added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Elis back home to the Garreg Las area.

“As a Welsh comedy giant, we’re looking forward to a night of humour in his company, reflecting the true spirit of the Eisteddfod.”

Elis was born in Haverfordwest and raised in Carmarthen. He’s a comedian, podcast presenter, actor and broadcaster. Since 2014, he’s presented a radio show with his friend and fellow comedian, John Robins, originally on Radio X before moving to BBC 5 Live in 2019.

Among the UK’s most popular comedians, Elis toured Wales with his show Derwydd in 2024, recording a performance at Carmarthen’s Lyric Theatre. He has since returned to English‑language stand‑up after a ten‑year break.

Day Maes tickets, which include admission to the gig, are available on the Eisteddfod website.

Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las will be held in Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire between August 1 and August 8.