News
Abusive drunk ‘targeted family’
DEAN ROWLANDS from The Green in Pembroke pleaded guilty to using abusive, threatening, insulting words or behaviour with the intent to cause fear or provoke violence at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 17) .
The prosecutor, Lisa McCormick, told the court that the 24 year-old had been travelling on a train at the same time as the Kidd family. They had been travelling between Cardiff and Penally and were due to change trains in Tenby.
The mother engaged in a conversation with a group of males, and Rowlands seemed to become irate. He had said: “Do you think you’re better than everyone else?” When they changed trains at Tenby, Rowlands sat opposite the family. He called the mother a f***ing sl*t and shouted at the father: “Hey, you in the f***ing leather jacket, I’ll take you out, he thinks he can hide behind his daughter!” The concerned family contacted the police, and they were waiting at Pembroke Train Station, where Rowlands got off.
The defendant accepts that he was heavily intoxicated as he had had a bottle of Jack Daniel’s, and he has said that he has no recollection of the conversation between himself and the Kidd family. His last offence was in December 2014 and he had some unrelated offences in 2011.
The defence, John Tarrant, said that it was clearly verbal assault. He talked about the fact that Rowlands could not remember what had happened, but he was completely ashamed by what he had done. He had self-referred himself to social workers as he had been relying heavily on drink. He had been doing very well; going from being dependant on alcohol to marginalising the problem. However, at Christmas he lost a friend and relapsed. Rowlands wants to better himself for his two children.
Magistrates said that it was a deeply unpleasant offence, but said that they would like to learn more about him from the probation service before they decide how to punish him.
Business
New development in Haverfordwest showcased to Welsh Government
MEMBERS of the Welsh Government and Pembrokeshire County Council toured Augustus Grange, a new housing development in Haverfordwest created by Lovell in partnership with housing association Pobl Group.
The development, located off St David’s Road, will provide 115 two and three-bedroom homes, including 36 homes for open market sale and 79 affordable homes. Of these, 37 will be available through Shared Ownership, and 42 will be for affordable rent.
The Welsh Government has contributed more than £8.6 million through its Social Housing Grant to fund the affordable rent homes, addressing a significant demand for accessible housing options in the area.
A collaborative vision
During the visit, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant MS, praised the project’s contribution to increasing housing availability.
“Delivering more homes is a key priority for this government, and it’s fantastic to support Lovell and Pobl’s vision for Augustus Grange,” she said. “This investment will provide high-quality, affordable housing for individuals and families in Haverfordwest.”
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Leader, Cllr Jon Harvey, and Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Michelle Bateman, also attended alongside other officials, including Gaynor Toft, Head of Housing, and David Meyrick, Housing Strategy and Affordable Housing Manager.
Cllr Bateman highlighted the importance of the development: “Increasing affordable housing is a key priority, and it’s fantastic to see a mix of open market, affordable, and social rent homes being developed in our county town.”
Progress on display
Lovell and Pobl showcased the site, including the sales office and a newly launched Lambourne-style show home. The Augustus Grange development is Lovell’s first project in West Wales and represents a key part of its growth strategy.
“We are incredibly proud of Augustus Grange,” said James Duffett, Lovell’s Regional Managing Director. “This project demonstrates our team’s achievements, combining the best of our partnerships and sales expertise to create a development people will be proud to call home.”
Designed for community
Claire Tristham, Director of Development at Pobl Group, underscored the collaborative effort behind the project.
“This development secures much-needed housing for the community, designed to meet high sustainability standards, ensuring affordability in both rent and heating costs,” she said.
The site’s proximity to Haverfordwest’s rich history and natural beauty further enhances its appeal. Future residents will enjoy access to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Haverfordwest Castle, and excellent shopping and commuter links.
To learn more about Augustus Grange, visit www.lovell.co.uk or call 01437 468 024. Sales offices are open Thursday to Monday, 10:00am to 5:00pm.
News
Body of missing woman found near Llanwrtyd Wells
Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed the discovery of a woman’s body during the search for 62-year-old Sally, who was reported missing from Llanwrtyd Wells on Monday (Nov 18).
A spokesperson for the police said: “We are saddened to confirm the body of a woman has been found during the search for Sally.
“Formal identification has not yet taken place, but her family has been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death are ongoing.
Officers are urging anyone with information that might assist the investigation to come forward.
Sally was last seen at her home around 1:30pm on Monday.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police via social media, email at [email protected], or by calling 101, quoting reference DP-20241118-296.
Entertainment
Carew Castle’s ‘Glow’: A festive wonderland of light and music awaits
CAREW CASTLE is thrilled to invite families and visitors of all ages to experience Glow – a magical event illuminating the season every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 29 November to 15 December, between 4:30pm and 7:30pm.
Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by a stunning display of lights throughout the Walled Garden, creating an enchanting atmosphere that leads into the heart of the festivities. At Nest Tearoom, visitors can indulge in seasonal treats, adding warmth and flavour to the experience.
This year’s event brings new areas and captivating displays, transforming the Castle into a Christmas wonderland with fresh elements designed especially for the 2024 season. Children are invited to join Santa’s Workshop Trail, an interactive adventure where they can hunt for clues hidden around the Castle, with a special treat awarded upon completion. Entry to the trail costs £2 per child.
Committed to sustainability, Glow’s impressive display uses only the most energy-efficient LED lights, designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising visual impact. The lighting setup uses approximately 85% less energy than traditional bulbs and can even operate from a single household socket.
Visitors will notice that all lighting is focused on the Castle’s east face and east range, illuminating beautifully preserved rooms such as the Lesser Hall, undercroft, chapel and kitchen, all decorated for the season and open to explore. To safeguard the resident bats, who have their own spaces within the Castle and are cherished members of the Carew community, lighting and access to certain areas are limited at night.
Adding to the festive spirit, local choirs and musical groups will fill the Lesser Hall with seasonal melodies each weekend, bringing an extra touch of holiday magic to the experience.
Due to high demand, visitors must pre-book arrival slots to secure entry. Tickets are available online, priced at £2.50 for adults and £1.50 for children aged 4-16 years. This nominal fee helps maintain and enhance Glow each year, ensuring it remains affordable for the community.
Free entry is offered to holders of annual passes, Carew parish residents, wheelchair users, and accompanying carers, though these visitors must also book online and present proof of eligibility.
Visitors purchasing tickets for daytime admission to the Castle and Grotto are welcome to attend Glow on the same evening without further booking.
For a full schedule of live performances, and for Castle and Nest Tearoom opening hours through November and December, please visit www.carewcastle.com
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