Community

PATCH to open new centre

Published

10 years ago

March 12, 2015

Tracy, Julie and team: Outside new centre .

PATCH’s new Pembroke Dock centre is scheduled to open in a new location on Tueday March 3.

PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action to Combat Hardship) was forced to leave its Monkton base before Christmas following a series of thefts and since then has been operating out of the CAB building in Pembroke Dock.

In an upbeat interview for the Herald, PATCH Coordinator Tracy Olin said: “Sadly we had to leave Monkton because we had a few issues not least because some things went missing. It was disappointing at the time but I feel it was the right time to move anyway, and if we hadn’t moved out we would not have ended up this amazing new place anyway. As from March 3 we will be in our lovely new Tuesday home in The Old Fleet Surgeons House No 1 The Terrace in the Royal Dock Yard ” she explained.

“It is just beautiful. We have the use of two large rooms for food clothing and household items and it is a lot bigger than our former premises. And in addition to this we have the most spectacular walled garden at the back which will allow us to expand our ‘growing patch’ for the foodbank. We already have a patch in Milford which we have had running for about 5 months” she continued.

“The weather has been against us but we have started growing leeks and potatoes and have carrot and beetroot seedlings to be planted and because of this we are looking for gardening volunteers with all levels of ability. It would be fantastic if we could help people develop their gardening skills.”

Expressing her thanks to all who have continued to support PATCH throughout its challenging period Tracy Olin added: “We have had so much encouragement from local businesses and companies. Keep Wales Tidy for example has given us a grant to buy equipment in association with Tesco, and the Marpet Fund has been incredibly supportive too by providing us with gardening equipment. And I have to say a massive thank you to the Port Authority. Quayside Estates have been amazing. They have supported us in so many ways. And I should not forget to say that we are very indebted to the CAB who hosted us for so long though they really didn’t have the space. We have and will continue to work closely with them because they can help people with the causes of their poverty too.”

Tracy Olin has no doubts that PATCH has an essential role to play in the local community. As she explained: “Sadly there is a huge need in the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock area and interestingly here the biggest increase is in the need is for household items. We are helping some 60 people a month with these. People tend to think the greatest need is food. It probably is as an immediate need, but we are always looking for anything practical, even small electrical items.”

Reflecting on the personal challenges that accompany poverty she continued: “One of the biggest problems with being poor is lack of choice and we try to deal with that by giving people as much choice as we can when we help them with clothing or household goods. We do this because we are trying to give people a sense of dignity.”

Anyone wanting more information should contact Tracy Olin on tel:07775 571431 or email tracy@patchcharity. org.uk

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

8 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

17 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

20 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.