News

Fishguard: Town’s lifeboat in Christmas Day rescue drama

Published

9 years ago

December 26, 2015

Fishguard all-weather lifeboat

A PAGER alarm call brought an abrupt end to Christmas Day celebrations for several of Fishguard RNLI’s crew members. A yacht en-passage from Porthmadog to Cardiff had made VHF radio contact with HM Coastguard requesting urgent assistance.

The 30-foot yacht ‘Sheena‘ was failing to make any headway on its route south as it battled the very demanding sea conditions. The two yachtsmen aboard – and their dog – were becoming overwhelmed as daylight failed and winds they were heading into began to strengthen.

Fishguard RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat launched at 4.00pm with a full complement of volunteer crew after the Coastguard’s request to do so and sped to the yachts reported position some 35 miles north-north-east of Fishguard. Once on scene attempts were made to attach a towline but the dark and appalling conditions rendered this impossible as the two yachtsmen were incapacitated and unable to assist the lifeboat crew.

Brave volunteer crewman Ben John, the hero of the day, was then skillfully transferred onto the yacht and managed to establish the towline onto the bow of the heaving yacht and the lifeboat then commenced the demanding tow towards the coast in the hope of obtaining a degree of shelter from the worsening conditions.

At the time, now nearing 8.00pm, the seas were very rough with 50 knot wind strengths being recorded. The stricken yacht began to take on water and the decision was made by the lifeboat’s Coxswain Paul Butler to head for Newquay harbour. Newquay RNLI were contacted by HM Coastguard and their in-shore lifeboat came out to rendezvous with the Fishguard lifeboat and in the more sheltered waters of the harbour the yacht was able to make its own way to a safe anchorage under Newquay RNLI’s escort. Once all was well the Fishguard lifeboat headed out to sea once again and pounded its way back home, arriving at 11.00pm.

Coxswain Paul Butler had nothing but praise for his crew. He told The Herald: ‘I am very proud of the dedication shown by our crew this Christmas. They left family, hearth and home at this special time of the year and were all willing to head into the middle of Cardigan Bay, in failing light and rough sea conditions, to go to the assistance of two yachtsmen in danger. The crew train and train, week after week, and never fail to come up with the goods when required. This Christmas Day they were exceptional in very demanding conditions. I would also like to convey our thanks to our Newquay colleagues for their invaluable assistance and support.’

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!