Community

A fond farewell to Bernard Prettyman

Published

9 years ago

January 29, 2016

Bernard Prettyman: “I’ll miss the contact with customers and the support from members of staff, but mostly the friends I’ve made over the years”

LAST week, the Torch Theatre said a fond farewell to their longest serving member of staff, Bernard Prettyman.

Bernard worked at the Torch Theatre for nearly 40 years and his retirement was celebrated by a special gathering of long time friends, family and work colleagues. A well-known and a highly loved character, Bernard is often referred by many as the “Face of the Torch,” by many of the returning actors, visiting companies and Pembrokeshire locals.

He started working at the Torch Theatre in 1977 as a barman and moved onto projection in 1980, where he took over the role of House Manager on January 3 1983. Bernard has worked in several departments in the theatre over the years including marketing, projection, front of house, bar and Box Office. In the early days, Bernard was a member of the Milford Haven Operatic Society and the Esso Drama Group. One year he made a guest appearance for the Tabernacle Players but later had to give up acting due to the shift work at the theatre.

His last show was ‘South Pacific’ at the Torch in the late 80s. Marketing Manager Jamie Rees gave a touching speech before presenting Bernard with several parting gifts, including a photographic book signed by staff and friends as well as a framed ‘Brief Encounter’ poster that was specially created by the Pembrokeshire National Coast for last year’s Torch Theatre Company Production of ‘Brief Encounter’. Artistic Director Peter Doran said: “Bernard has been the face of the Torch for over 38 years now. He’s run the bar, been FOH manager, projectionist and worked behind box office and I’m sure given half the chance he’d have been on stage as well. Bernard’s great skill was knowing our customers; he knew the majority by name and nine times out of ten knew their address’s as well – these days it’s called data capture, it used to be called ‘ask Bernard’.”

In true Bernard style, he catered for over 30 work colleagues and friends, many enjoying his delicious cakes that he’s become well known for baking over the years. Bernard said: “I’ll miss the contact with customers and the support from members of staff, but mostly the friends I’ve made over the years.” He hasn’t made any plans for the future but says he’s going to take it easy for a while, enjoy being with his great nephew and niece and his beloved dog, Jasper.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

14 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

23 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

1 day 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.