News
Welsh stats on deliberate fires published

MORE than a quarter of Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) attendances at fires and false alarms in 2013-14 were due to deliberate fires, according to the Welsh government’s biennial bulletin.
The statistics in Deliberate Fires 2013-14 are compiled from reports on fires attended and submitted by FRS’s in Wales.
The key points for the year 2013- 14 are:
A total of 7564 deliberate fires were attended, an increase of 18% compared with the previous year, but a decrease of 71% compared with 2001- 02. Of these, 18% were primary fires.
Two-thirds of deliberate fires were in South Wales, 24% in Mid and West Wales, and 10% in North Wales 664 primary fires were started deliberately in vehicles, a decrease of 8% compared with the previous year.
There were six deliberate fires in schools, equating to 18% of all fires in schools.
Two fatal casualties and 72 non-fatal resulted.
In the combined figures for 2009-10 to 2013-14, furniture and furnishings were the materials first ignited in 19% of deliberate primary fires and, of the dangerous substances, 70% were flammable liquids.
Included are those fires ignited deliberately, or where deliberate ignition is suspected, or those recorded as ‘doubtful’ by the FRS
Community
St Davids Cathedral strengthens spiritual ties with St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh

THE DEEP spiritual connection between Wales and Ireland was celebrated this St Patrick’s Day as Dean Sarah Rowland Jones of St Davids Cathedral presented prints of the icons of St David and St Patrick to Dean Shane Forster of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh (Anglican, Church of Ireland).
The presentation took place after Dean Sarah delivered a sermon at the St Patrick’s Day service in Armagh, where she spoke about the shared Christian heritage of the two patron saints and their enduring influence on the faith communities of both nations.
A legacy of faith and unity
St David and St Patrick, both pivotal figures in the early Christian church, played key roles in spreading the Gospel and establishing monastic traditions. Their legacies have continued to shape the spiritual landscapes of Wales and Ireland for centuries.
Dean Sarah reflected on these historical connections during her sermon, highlighting the common themes of faith, devotion, and service that unite the two saints. She also shared the last recorded words of St David with the congregation:
“Be joyful, keep the faith, and do the little things.”
“Byddwch lawen, cadwch y ffydd, a gwnewch y pethau bychain!”
These words, spoken by St David in the 6th century, remain central to the ethos of Welsh Christianity, encouraging believers to find meaning in small acts of kindness and faithfulness.
A symbolic exchange
The exchange of icon prints between the two cathedrals served as a symbol of ongoing friendship and unity between the Welsh and Irish Anglican communities. Both cathedrals hold significant historical and religious importance, drawing thousands of pilgrims each year who seek to connect with their deep Christian heritage.
Speaking about the event, Dean Sarah said: “The ties between St Davids and Armagh are more than just historical—they are deeply spiritual. We are reminded that the Christian faith transcends borders, uniting us through shared traditions, values, and a commitment to serving others.”
The service in Armagh marked yet another step in fostering a strong relationship between the two cathedrals, reinforcing the historic and spiritual bonds between Wales and Ireland.
News
Police confirm tragic death of teenage girl in Burton

EMERGENCY services responded to a medical emergency at a property in Burton on Saturday (Mar 15).
Dyfed-Powys Police say they received a call reporting the incident at around 4:30pm.
Tragically, a 15-year-old girl has passed away, it has been confirmed.
Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by a family liaison officer.
Police have confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report will be prepared for H.M. Coroner.
News
Three injured in A477 crash near Cleddau Bridge

THREE people were taken to hospital following a collision on the A477 near Cleddau Bridge on Monday (Mar 17).
The crash, which involved three vehicles, happened shortly before 9:00am between Cleddau Bridge and Honeyborough roundabout. Emergency services attended the scene, and both lanes of the road were closed for nearly two hours.
One lane reopened at 10:45am, with the road fully cleared by 10:55am.
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Police attended a three-vehicle road traffic collision which occurred on the A477 just before 9:00am. Three people were taken to hospital with what are believed to be minor injuries.”
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