News

AM backs the shopworkers’ call for respect

Published

11 years ago

November 27, 2013

REBECCA EVANS AM, Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales has backed Usdaw, the shopworkers’ trade union, at the launch in the Assembly of its annual Respect for Shopworkers week.

This year’s campaign is focused on the need for a stronger law to protect shopworkers against violence and abuse. The union is also highlighting the under-reporting of attacks with 1 in 6 not being reported by shopworkers to management or the police.

Usdaw activists in shops and supermarkets across Wales are holding campaign events to urge colleagues and customers to back a change in the law to provide stiffer sentences for those who assault workers serving the public.

They are also reminding customers to ‘Keep Your Cool at Christmas’, a time when incidents of violence and abuse against shopworkers tend to increase.

Mrs Evans said “It is shocking that so many people seem to think that it is acceptable to abuse and attack those who serve us in the shops. Strengthening the law would send a clear message to potential assailants that such behaviour will not be tolerated and encourage shopworkers to come forward and report attacks. Sadly the problems are often worst in the run-up to Christmas when customers are stressed and shops are at their busiest. I am happy to join Usdaw in urging people to show respect for shopworkers and to ‘Keep your cool at Christmas’.”

Usdaw Divisional Officer Nick Ireland said: “It’s a sad fact that every minute of every day a shopworker somewhere is assaulted, threatened or abused. Respect for Shopworkers Week is a great opportunity for retail staff to talk to the public about these problems and seek their support in saying that there is never an excuse for attacks on them. It is always encouraging to see how many Assembly Members back our campaign.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

4 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

18 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!