News

One Show star backs local press

Published

10 years ago

May 28, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Star backing: Press campaign support from Alex Jones

BBC ONE SHOW presenter Alex Jones has been speaking in her backing of local newspaper’s ‘Making a Difference’ campaign.
The 38-year-old TV journalist, from Ammanford, stated that local newspapers had been at the heart of her broadcast training over the years and that they provided a ‘unique and vital public service.’ She went on to say of local newspapers and journals: “They listen to the concerns, aspirations and hopes of their readers and campaign for real change on their behalf. As we can see from this year’s ‘Making a Difference’ showcase, it doesn’t matter what the issue is – local newspapers keep fighting on behalf of their readers. This work – be it saving a fire station from closure or raising funds for new medical facilities – is so important to keeping our communities healthy and vibrant, and that’s why I’m proud to support this year’s Making a Difference campaign.”
Alex Jones went on to speak about the difference that local press can make within the community and the power of social media, saying: ”I am struck by the different ways in which you can now talk to your local newspaper and get a campaign started. As well as walking the same streets as their readers, local newspaper journalists are in constant conversation with readers through social media. Social media is a fantastic way to communicate with many people instantly but, more than ever, there is a need for a trusted and informed voice to give people the correct facts. That’s where local papers can shine – taking their trusted brand of journalism to readers across both online and in print. As well as allowing local papers to break news stories quickly, a local campaign can be launched, significant momentum gained, and the results achieved in just a matter of hours. I am delighted to support his year’s Making a Difference campaign and would like to wish all the shortlisted newspapers all the very best of luck.”

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

6 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.

Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.

The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.

Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.

Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.

(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)

Business

Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure

Published

14 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.

The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.

The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.

A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”

Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.

Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.

From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.

Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.

(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

Published

14 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.

In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”

Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.

Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.