A NEW website dedicated to the restoration and protection of Pembrokeshire’s precious rivers has launched, offering residents and local communities the chance to get directly involved in safeguarding their local environment.

The website, www.wwnmb.wales, has been set up by the West Wales Nutrient Management Boards (NMBs), focusing particularly on the River Cleddau, alongside the Tywi and Teifi rivers. All three rivers have Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) status but are currently struggling to meet targets for phosphorus levels, which are crucial to maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Supported by Welsh Government funding and led locally by Pembrokeshire County Council, in collaboration with authorities in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, the initiative unites public bodies, environmental groups, utilities, and local stakeholders. Its key goal is to find sustainable long-term solutions to improve water quality, thus benefiting wildlife, local businesses, and the community.

Pembrokeshire County Councillor Jacob Williams, Chair of the Cleddau Nutrient Management Board, said: “Pembrokeshire’s rivers are at the heart of our communities and economy. This new website empowers everyone—residents, farmers, landowners, developers, and young people—to understand the challenges and become part of the solution to improve river health across our county.”

The site offers detailed interactive maps, accessible summaries of scientific data, resources specifically tailored for landowners and developers, and opportunities to engage in citizen science projects. Pembrokeshire residents can also get involved directly by joining local stakeholder groups or participating in public consultations.

Additionally, Pembrokeshire residents can visit the WWNMB stand at the Pembrokeshire County Show on Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 August at the FUW stand, to learn more and discuss how they can contribute to protecting their local rivers.

For updates and further engagement, residents are encouraged to follow the social media hashtags: #WWNMB25 #BRhMGC25

Explore the initiative and find ways to get involved at www.wwnmb.wales.

FAMILY members from across the UK have travelled to Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre to view a new exhibit honouring a wartime RAF airman who served aboard the Sunderland flying boat T9044.

Brother and sister Ross Burrows, from Grimsby, and Nikki Soysa, who travelled from the Hebrides, joined their cousin Shirley Shelley Hutchinson, from Yorkshire, and Ross’s wife Dianne, to view the poignant display dedicated to Wing Commander David Burrows. David was the navigator aboard the Sunderland T9044 on its final mission to Pembroke Dock in November 1940, which tragically sank in the Haven shortly after its arrival.

The family has generously donated Wing Commander Burrows’ logbook, uniforms, and other treasured memorabilia, now thoughtfully incorporated into the Centre’s collection, alongside other artefacts from the T9044.

Ross Burrows praised the Centre’s efforts, saying: “The museum team has created a wonderful exhibit about dad and his story. Their enthusiasm shines through clearly. We’re excited to encourage more family members to visit.”

The Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

A SPECIAL presentation ceremony took place at County Hall on 29 May to honour two remarkable individuals who have been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of their outstanding service. The event, hosted by the newly appointed Chair of Carmarthenshire County Council, Cllr Dot Jones, marked her first official engagement and was attended by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, who presented the honours on behalf of His Majesty The King.

The British Empire Medal, first established in 1917 and reintroduced in 2012, recognises individuals who have demonstrated hands-on, impactful contributions to their communities. Nominations come directly from the people who witness these contributions every day; colleagues, neighbours and friends, making the honour personal and meaningful.

Mrs Marian Louise Evans was recognised for services to business. As founder and Managing Director of Elevate Business Consultancy, Mrs Evans has delivered transformational change across the sector. As a multi-award-winning professional, she has been widely acknowledged for her leadership, particularly in championing women in business. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she offered vital support to over 2,000 businesses through free resilience sessions and online content, reaching over 300,000 people each month. Her voluntary work has earned her titles such as UK Mentor of the Year and Inspirational Woman of the Decade. She received her medal from the Lord-Lieutenant and was presented with flowers on behalf of Carmarthenshire County Council by Lord-Lieutenant Cadet Chloe Faulkner.

Miss Judith Harvey received the British Empire Medal for services to the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Having begun her career as one of the UK’s first female wardens, she has dedicated her life to conservation, land management and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders. As Head Warden since 2012, Miss Harvey has mentored countless apprentices and volunteers, led significant restoration projects and worked passionately to protect the park’s ecosystems and heritage. She was presented with her medal by the Lord-Lieutenant and flowers from Lord-Lieutenant Cadet Zuzzana Radkowska, before addressing the audience in a moving speech.

Closing the ceremony, the Chair of the Council praised both recipients for their service and reflected on the importance of role models in public life, especially for women and girls. She noted the growing presence of women in leadership roles, while recognising that progress must continue at all levels of local democracy. Their achievements, she said, lay a strong foundation for others to follow.

Cllr Phillip Hughes, Cabinet Member for Organisation & Workforce, said: “These awards are a true testament to the power of local action and leadership. Marian and Judith exemplify the values of dedication, service and inspiration. We are proud to celebrate their success and the example they set for others in our communities.”