A GROUP of volunteers who have spent the past five years helping to care for one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic sites have been honoured with an invitation to Buckingham Palace.

Five members of Carew Castle’s Grounds and Site Maintenance Volunteer group attended one of this year’s King’s Garden Parties in early May, after the group was nominated in recognition of its outstanding voluntary work.

David Clarke, Helen Clarke, Chris Williams, Lorna Alexander and Claire Phillips represented the nine-strong volunteer group at the Garden Party, which was attended by members of the Royal Family including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

The group gives one day each week to Carew Castle, helping to look after the Scheduled Ancient Monument, its grounds and the associated Tidal Mill,

Over the past five years, their work has ranged from conservation and biodiversity projects to improving public access, refurbishing historic milling equipment and supporting the wider care of the Castle’s historic landscape.

This work has helped extend the visitor season at Carew, bringing more people to the site outside the traditional summer months and supporting longer, employment opportunities in a seasonal tourism setting.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, said: “Our wonderful volunteers turn up week after week in all weathers, giving their time, skills and energy to help care for a place that means so much to Pembrokeshire.

“So much of what they do happens quietly, behind the scenes, but visitors see the results everywhere, from the grounds and access improvements to the events and seasonal programmes that bring the Castle to life.

“We were thrilled that members of the group were invited to Buckingham Palace. It was a very special recognition of their dedication, and richly deserved.”

The King’s Garden Parties are held each year to recognise people who have made significant contributions to public service, community life and voluntary work.

Further information about visiting Carew Castle and its summer events programme can be found at www.carewcastle.com. 

A WEST WALES carers charity has marked Carers Week 2026 by calling for stronger, more inclusive communities for unpaid carers across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales said this year’s Carers Week theme, “building carer-friendly communities”, highlights the need for carers to be better understood, valued and supported.

The charity said small changes could make a major difference, including employers offering greater flexibility to staff with caring responsibilities, and GPs and pharmacies doing more to identify and support unpaid carers.

SUPPORTING LOCAL CARERS

During Carers Week, the organisation has delivered a range of activities across West Wales, including a guided walk at the National Botanic Garden of Wales, a beach barbecue, wellbeing walks at Dinefwr Castle, pamper days, Money MOTs and other support sessions.

The activities were aimed at giving unpaid carers a chance to take a break, meet others in similar circumstances, and find out more about the support available locally.

One local carer support service said: “We need carer-friendly communities to support carers, help them understand that they are cared for themselves, and ensure they feel part of the world around them.”

‘CARERS ARE NOT ALONE’

Andrew Fewtrell Smith, Carer Support Services Manager at Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales, said: “Unpaid carers are at the heart of our communities, often providing vital care and support without recognition or adequate support themselves.

“During Carers Week, we want to celebrate their contribution, raise awareness of the challenges they face, and remind carers that they are not alone.

“At Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales, we are committed to building more carer-friendly communities across West Wales, where carers of all ages feel valued, listened to and able to access the support, understanding and opportunities they need.”

Alexandra Roberts, Director of Network and Innovation at Carers Trust, said local organisations were making a real difference to carers’ lives every day.

She said: “From creating safe spaces to connect, to offering practical advice and essential support, the work of local carer organisations shows what’s possible when communities come together.

“Building carer-friendly communities starts with action and investment at a local level, and it’s inspiring to see our movement of local partners leading the way during this year’s Carers Week.”

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales is part of a network of more than 130 local support centres for carers across England, Scotland and Wales.

More information is available at www.ctcww.org.uk/events/carers-week/ and www.carers.org/help-for-carers/carer-services-near-you.

A GENEROUS eight-year-old girl showed incredible kindness and determination when she donated 12 inches of her hair to help children affected by cancer.

The hair-cutting event took place at the Cross Inn, Broadmoor, where family, friends and members of the local community gathered to support her fundraising efforts. Her donated hair will be used to make wigs for children who have lost their hair during cancer treatment.

Alongside the hair donation, the young fundraiser worked hard to raise £2500 for the charity, with local businesses and residents contributing donations, vouchers and prizes to support the cause. The event helped raise valuable funds while also shining a spotlight on the important work carried out by charities supporting children and families facing cancer.

Her selfless act inspired many people in the community and helped raise awareness of the challenges experienced by young cancer patients. Supporters praised her bravery and generosity, recognising the difference her donation and fundraising efforts will make to children in need.

The event proved to be a wonderful success, demonstrating how one young person’s compassion can bring a community together and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.