Community

Brains has no drains

Published

9 years ago

September 22, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Sewage leak: Human waste leaked into gardens while pub was open

TWO prominent Milford Haven businessmen have contacted The Herald to explain how a neighbour’s dispute with the owners of a now-closed public house led them to remove its drain pipes.

The Alma Hotel, on Priory Street, Milford Haven, was recently closed after the police sought removal of the licensee of the premises, concerned over the way the premises had been run.

The Herald reported last year that in the police papers presented to the council’s Licensing Committee it stated member of the public had reported ‘twelve-year-olds snorting cocaine off the tables’ – a claim that was never substantiated.

However, the closure of the premises has not been the end of the problem for the owners of adjoining properties. Hugo Henricksen, who owns the HSBC Bank building at 12 Hamilton Terrace, and Tom Newing & Sons Ltd who own 13 Hamilton Terrace say that they have suffered loss and damage due to the actions of Brains, the Alma Hotel owners.

Last year solicitors acting for the landowners affected wrote to Brains. The Herald has seen the letter, which stated: “Many tons of debris have now been removed from our clients’ properties, including the removal of waste which had been used as a sort of foundation to the structures constructed at the rear of The Alma Public House. The property belonging to Messrs Tom Newing has suffered damage from patrons frequenting your Public House and you have a duty to restrain their behaviour and are thus responsible for the costs of repair to the premises.”

“Further, drainage pipes have been laid through the property formerly belonging to HSBC Bank. This land now belongs to Mr Henricksen. No permission had been given for the laying of the pipes. This has resulted in many years of raw sewage and other toiletry items being deposited into the garden of the former HSBC Bank premises due to faulty and inappropriate toilet pipes being installed.”

The letter went on: “Substantial expense has been incurred as a result of the actions of your former Licensee and reimbursement of that expense will be required from your company… We would request that someone from your Department attend at the site in order to discuss matters.”

Mr Henricksen told The Herald: “When The Alma Hotel was rebuilt several years ago instead of removing the old materials, the owners dumped them into the bank’s garden and into Mr. Newing’s garden. We are talking about tons of rubbish, debris and pub fittings including brewery pipes.”

He added: “The sewerage drains coming from the Alma Hotel were poorly fitted, and had collapsed and human waste was pouring into the bank’s garden. The closure of the pub meant an end to the bad smells but the rubbish still remained. I removed the pipes because not only had the drains collapsed, and posed a health hazard on my land but there was no permission for the drains to be laid on the land in the first place.”

Solicitors acting for Tom Newing & Sons Ltd first contacted Gareth Johns, Head of Estates at Brains in January 2010. Brains had built, according to solicitor Gareth Lewis, a smoking shelter on Newing’s land and placed a lock on their back gate. A site visit which took place in November 2008 had not resolved the issue.

Mr Henricksen concluded: “Brains are now auctioning the Alma Hotel, but the new owners will need to lay new drainage and ensure that the hotel’s structures are built on land that is owned by them, and not land belonging to Mr Newing or myself. I hope that the new owners sort these important issues quickly”

At the time of going to press Brains were not available for comment.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

12 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

21 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

23 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.