News

New way of operating safeguards Milford Coastguard jobs

Published

10 years ago

February 16, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Big changes: Milford Haven Coastguard

MILFORD HAVEN Coastguard Operations Centre (CGOC) is to become part of the new Coastguard national network for the very first time this week.

Work has been carried out at the search and rescue coordination centre to upgrade the technology and introduce new systems. This means Milford Haven CGOC will be connected to the National Maritime Operations Centre (NMOC) in Hampshire and other Coastguard stations around the country, which will be able to offer mutual support during busy periods.

Post by The Pembrokeshire Herald.

From March 6 Milford Haven CGOC and the new national network will start to take on operations from Swansea Coastguard.

The changes to Her Majesty’s Coastguard will see the NMOC and 10 other CGOCs around the UK work together to manage the workload. There will be no reduction in rescue resources. The availability of Coastguard Rescue Teams, lifeboats, rescue helicopters and other rescue units will be unaffected.

Carl Evans, Maritime Operations Controller at Milford Haven CGOC, said: “The way we deliver the coordination of search and rescue operations on our coast and out at sea is changing. But the public won’t notice any difference. If you call 999 and ask for the Coastguard, or issue a mayday broadcast, we will still be here to help you.”

VHF FAILURE

deadradio

Last week, questions were raised about the new Maritime and Coastguard Agency communications system last week, after a three hour long VHF failure.

The fault, which affected the area between the English Channel and the Mull of Galloway in Scotland, happened at around 1pm on February 8. It is unclear why the VHF system, which is used to respond to Mayday calls, stopped working. The fault is thought to have originated at the National Maritime Operations Centre in Fareham, Hampshire. The Herald understands that communication was carried out through mobile phones until the fault was resolved.
All stations affected were members of the new Coastguard national network, based at the National Maritime Operations Centre. Milford Haven has joined this network this week, along with ten other coastguard operations centres across the country. Eight coastguard operation centres are set to close.

The Transport Select Committee Chair Louise Ellman has summoned the MCA chief executive to answer questions regarding the incident. ‘My committee has expressed serious concerns over the transition to a new national system,’ she said.
Announcing the new system, Maritime Operations controller for Milford Haven Coastguard Carl Evans said: ‘The way we deliver the coordination of search and rescue operations on our coast and at sea is changing. But the public won’t notice any difference. If you call 999 and ask for the coastguard, or issue a mayday broadcast we will still be there to help you.’

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

7 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

7 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

14 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”