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Legal high user now ‘a much better person’

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Paul QuinnPAUL QUINN of Wesley Court in Pembroke Dock pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer in the execution of his duty at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Jul 21).

Lesley Harbon, prosecuting, told the court that the police were on duty at a treatment room in Withybush on June 17 at around 6pm. Quinn was there for mental health reasons and it was decided that he no longer needed to stay there.

“The defendant picked up some tissues and stuffed them in his mouth,” said Ms Harbon, “He then took a deep breath. The officer ran towards him and pushed at his pressure points, saying ‘Spit it out!’ The defendant continued to try and swallow, so the officer had to slap him on the back several times.”

38-year-old Quinn from Wesley Court in Pembroke Dock is then alleged to have pushed the officer back and punched him in the chest before he was restrained.

Ms Harbon explained that the injuries that the officer received (a small graze to the inner elbow) were not consistent with a punch and the defendant says that he did assault the police officer but not in the manner described.

“This was a very sorry time in Mr Quinn’s life,” said Mike Kelleher, defending him, “His brother and best friend has both died of a legal high overdose and he himself was rescued by police in bed, and was only one of three who survived. He took this extremely badly.”

Mr Kelleher explained that his client was arrested under the provisions of a mental health act and said “he exhibited some quite bizarre behaviour at the hospital.” He said that Quinn wished to apologise to the officer and thank him for saving him.

“This was not the act of a well person,” he added, “He is an entirely different person today than the one I saw at the police station when he was in a bad state. He has been prescribed medication by the doctors after the incident, but it didn’t agree with him and he feels that it resulted in this event. Since, he has stopped taking it entirely and you can see simply by looking at him that he is a much better person now.”

Magistrates fined Quinn £75 and ordered that he paid a further £75 in compensation to the officer. The bench said: “Hopefully you’ve now recovered from your problems and we won’t see you again.” Quinn will also have to pay a £20 victim surcharge, £85 in prosecution costs and a £150 criminal court charge.

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Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

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SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

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Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

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ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

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Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

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ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.

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