Community

Service makes plea for clean chimneys

Published

11 years ago

December 5, 2013

MID & WEST WALES Fire and Rescue Service is urging all householders to have their chimneys swept by a registered chimney sweep and familiarise themselves with chimney safety advice after a house fire at Parkmill, Swansea last Sunday evening.

Three appliances and a water bowser from Swansea West, Swansea Central, Reynoldston and Tumble were mobilised to deal with the fire that originated from a solid fuel fire within the premises. Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using four hose reel jets.

Station Manager Alan Sherman who attended the incident said: “It is important for the public to recognise the importance of having solid fuel and traditional coal fire flues swept at least every six months and to ensure the flues are suitably fire protected from combustible materials.

“This is particularly important during the Christmas period, when Christmas trees and decorations can be placed too close to fires and flues, causing them to ignite if no suitable protection is in place.

“A blocked or defective chimney can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell. Fuel burning appliances can produce carbon monoxide if they are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained, or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked, so it’s very important to employ a professional qualified chimney sweep such as those certified by the National Association of Chimney Sweeps”.

• Ensure your chimney is swept regularly

• Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained

• Be careful when using open fires to keep warm. Make sure you always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from hot embers

• Ensure the fire is extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house

• Ensure good quality fuel is used

• Chimneys should be swept according to the type of fuel used:

o Smokeless fuels – at least once a year
o Bitumous coal – at least twice a year
o Wood burners – quarterly when in use
o Oil – once a year
o Gas – once a year (Any work on gas appliances requires a Gas Safe registered installer/engineer)

• Never interrupt the air supply by blocking air vents or air bricks.

The Service offer free Home Fire Safety Checks and personalised advice on a range of home fire safety issues as well as free smoke detectors if required. They would urge all householders to take advantage of this Service, particularly in the lead up to Christmas.

For further advice or to book a Free Home fire safety check please call 0800 169 1234 or visit www.mawwfire.gov.uk

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

4 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.

A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.

Community

Milford Haven’s heartwarming ‘Christmas Together’ event another success

Published

5 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN came together once again on Christmas Day for the annual ‘Christmas Together’ event, a cherished tradition that has been running since December 2012.

Organised by Mayor Cllr William Elliott and his consort Lloyd Jones, alongside Cllr Colin Sharp and the dedicated Christmas Together Committee, the event provided warmth, community spirit, and festive cheer to those who might otherwise spend the day alone.

Volunteers played an essential role, with special thanks extended to Claire and her kitchen team, who prepared and served a delicious Christmas meal for all attendees. Milford Haven Town Band added a festive soundtrack to the day, while support from Milford Haven Fire Station and numerous volunteers ensured everything ran smoothly.

The event, which aims to combat loneliness during what can be a difficult time of year for many, was described as a resounding success. The organisers expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who donated money, items, and their time to make the day special.

A spokesperson for the event said: “As another year closes, we would like to thank all those that made Christmas Together 2024 so amazing. Great day, great company, and so good to see the community working together.”

Special recognition was also given to Marble Hall Mini Market for their kind donation of a festive hamper.

The Christmas Together raffle added an extra layer of excitement to the day, with generous donations from supporters.

A special thank you was extended to Mariam Dalziel and the team from South Hook for kindly donating an Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet as one of the raffle prizes. Other prizes included a hamper of wine, a tower of temptation (chocolates and Prosecco), chocolate tub hampers, and many more.

Preparations for the event began well in advance, with invitations being posted on Saturday, 26th October 2024. The dedicated team behind this effort included Leanne from Milford Haven Post Office, Mayor Cllr William Elliott, Cllr Guy Woodham (Founder and Chair of Christmas Together), and Cllr Colin Sharp (Committee Member and Chair of the Pill Social Centre).

The event once again highlighted the strong sense of community spirit in Milford Haven, with attendees leaving with full hearts and warm smiles.

Merry Christmas to all from the Christmas Together team!

Community

Heartfelt Christmas message from Tenby’s Mayor

Published

5 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE MAYOR of Tenby, Councillor Dai Morgan, has delivered a warm and heartfelt Christmas message to the community.

Cllr Morgan praised the town’s ‘resilient and united’ spirit, reflecting on the ‘kindness and generosity’ that have defined Tenby throughout the year. He expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering community support that continues to make the town ‘a truly special place to call home.’

Acknowledging the challenges many families face this year, including the ongoing cost-of-living pressures and rising energy costs, Cllr Morgan encouraged residents to embrace the core values of the festive season: peace, compassion, and hope.

“Christmas is a time to come together, to reflect on what truly matters, and to share moments of joy and hope for a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

The mayor extended his heartfelt thanks to those who work tirelessly to keep the community safe and supported over the festive season. This included the police, RNLI, health services, fire crews, HM Coastguard, carers, and all frontline workers.

He also highlighted the vital contributions of Tenby’s voluntary organisations, who continue to bring comfort and joy to those who may feel isolated or face hardship during the holidays.

“Without the dedication and compassion of our voluntary groups, our town would lose so much of its heart. Their efforts make a real difference, and they deserve our gratitude and support every single day,” Cllr Morgan added.

Reflecting on the year gone by, he shared how humbled he felt meeting so many inspiring individuals who contribute to the town’s rich tapestry of community life. Looking ahead to 2025, he expressed optimism and a renewed sense of gratitude for his family, friends, and colleagues.

Cllr Morgan concluded his message with warm wishes for the season:

“May this Christmas bring you moments of happiness, peace, and togetherness. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a hopeful New Year.”