News

Trail hunting consultation opens as debate grows in Pembrokeshire

Published

2 months ago

April 5, 2026

Animal welfare groups back proposed ban, while supporters of country sports warn against further pressure on rural traditions

THE UK GOVERNMENT has opened a public consultation on plans to ban trail hunting in England and Wales, setting up a fresh debate in rural areas including Pembrokeshire, where hunting remains part of the social calendar for some communities.

Ministers say the move would deliver a Labour manifesto pledge and help close what campaigners describe as loopholes in the law. The consultation is seeking views from the public, landowners, hunt organisers, local authorities, conservation bodies, businesses and animal welfare groups on how a ban should work in practice and whether wider changes to hunting law may also be needed.

Trail hunting was introduced after the Hunting Act 2004, with organisers saying it involves hounds following an artificially laid scent rather than a live animal. Opponents argue it has too often been used as a cover for illegal hunting, while supporters say it is a lawful countryside activity which should not be swept away by politics.

The Hunt Saboteurs Association and the League Against Cruel Sports have both welcomed the consultation, saying it gives the public a chance to support stronger protections for wildlife and prevent further loopholes from being exploited.

But countryside groups have hit back, arguing that the proposals could have serious consequences for rural communities, jobs and long-standing local traditions. The Countryside Alliance has urged supporters to respond, saying those who understand country life must not allow others to shape the outcome unchallenged.

The issue is likely to attract strong views in Pembrokeshire, where country sports still have a loyal following. The Cresselly Hunt, one of the best-known local hunts, continues to hold regular trail hunts and social events, underlining how closely the subject is tied to local rural identity as well as national legislation.

That means any attempt to tighten the law is unlikely to be seen locally as a simple animal welfare measure. For many in west Wales, it will also be viewed through the lens of heritage, land management and concern that rural voices are being overlooked by decision-makers.

The consultation does not itself change the law, but it is the clearest sign yet that legislation is being prepared. With ministers now formally gathering evidence and public opinion, both supporters and opponents of hunting are expected to campaign hard over the coming weeks.

Community

Lydstep Haven swimming warning lifted after sewerage repairs

Published

7 hours ago

May 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

BATHERS have been told they can return to the water at Lydstep Haven after warnings linked to a pollution incident were lifted.

Pembrokeshire County Council had advised people not to swim at the beach after an “abnormal situation” was declared earlier this month over concerns about bathing water quality.

Natural Resources Wales has now confirmed that the status has been lifted following repair works to a private sewerage system.

Water samples taken in the days after the repairs indicated that the bathing water was no longer being affected.

Signage warning people not to swim will now be removed by the council.

An NRW spokesperson said: “The ‘abnormal situation’ status at Lydstep Haven beach in Pembrokeshire has been lifted by Natural Resources Wales.

“The lifting of this status means that Pembrokeshire County Council is no longer advising people not to swim at Lydstep Haven.

“The private operator has carried out repair works to their sewerage system and results from several water samples taken indicate the bathing water is no longer being impacted.

“NRW is continuing its investigation into any possible regulatory breaches.”

Community

Safe Haven Homeless breakfast raises more than £170 in Whitland

Published

7 hours ago

May 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A FUNDRAISING breakfast held at The Station House pub in Whitland has raised more than £170 for Safe Haven Homeless CIC.

The event saw supporters gather at the pub, where landlord Mike provided a dedicated area for the organisation to display leaflets and posters, sell mugs, and explain more about its plans.

Collection tins were placed on each table and organisers said several generous donations were made during the morning.

Safe Haven Homeless CIC is being set up to provide a safe location, together with a wider support package, for homeless people who are desperate to get their lives back on track.

Organisers said the money raised would go towards the group’s work and help demonstrate to grant funders that the organisation is able to raise support locally.

A spokesperson said: “We intend to fund our initial start-up costs from grant funding, and by holding events like this we show grant funders that we are capable of raising funds ourselves.”

Safe Haven Homeless is also in the process of having a website built, which is expected to include a donations portal. The front page is currently live at www.safe-haven-homeless.org.uk, with OROGO Advertising working on the full site.

Photos:

Dave, founder and general manager, with his wife Lynne; director Steve Cox; supporters at the breakfast; the display area; and The Station House, Whitland.

Business

Cardigan bakery named among best in UK

Published

8 hours ago

May 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A CARDIGAN bakehouse has been named among the best bakeries in the UK as interest in “bakery tourism” continues to rise.

Bara Menyn, a small family-run bakehouse tucked away in a side street in Cardigan, has been highlighted by travel experts at holidaycottages.co.uk as one of the bakeries worth making a trip for.

The name Bara Menyn means “bread and butter” in Welsh, and the bakery has built a reputation for imaginative bakes, pizzas and seasonal produce.

Laura Kerslake, regional expert for Wales, said: “Bara Menyn is how you say ‘bread and butter’ in Welsh and the name of the small family bakehouse that is hidden down a side street in Cardigan, West Wales.

“It’s open three days a week so that the owners can fit the bakehouse around family life and their careers as artists.

“The family’s artistic flair can be seen in all the imaginative fillings and toppings on the bakes and pizzas served, which are also made using local, seasonal produce.”

The listing comes as the UK sees growing interest in independent bakeries, with spending on bakery goods reported to have risen by six per cent from 2025 to 2026.

Research also suggests that many people are now willing to travel for regional food experiences, from traditional cakes to artisan bread and pastries.

Two other Welsh bakeries were also highlighted: Little Valley Bakery, which has sites in Mumbles and Brynmill, and was recently named in the Good Food Guide’s 50 Best Bakeries 2026; and another Welsh entry included in the travel company’s wider list.

For Cardigan, the recognition adds to the town’s growing reputation as a destination for independent food, drink and creative businesses.