IN a time when healthcare services are stretched thin across the UK, Pembrokeshire stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation with the upcoming opening of Wales’ largest Specsavers store in Haverfordwest. Thanks to a transformative £1.2 million investment, the county is poised to benefit from world-class eye and hearing care when the new store opens its doors on Monday, December 16, 2024.

This state-of-the-art facility, situated at 21 Riverside Quay in the Riverside Shopping Centre, is set to revolutionize local healthcare with 14 test rooms, including two dedicated audiology suites. Not only does this make it the largest Specsavers in Wales, but it also places it among the most advanced in the UK. At a time when accessing NHS services can be challenging, the store’s cutting-edge technology and expanded clinical services offer a lifeline to residents, relieving pressure on GPs, hospitals, and A&E departments.

Andy Britton, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Haverfordwest, highlighted the importance of this development: “Our investment reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional eye and hearing care in Pembrokeshire. This isn’t just about a bigger store – it’s about meeting the needs of our growing community, introducing advanced clinical services, and training the next generation of optometrists.”

The new store is also a hub for education, supporting optometrists pursuing higher qualifications in areas like Glaucoma and Independent Prescribing. This ensures Pembrokeshire residents have access to top-tier care while nurturing a future generation of specialists.

A recent YouGov survey commissioned by Specsavers reveals a critical gap in awareness about eye health. Nearly 70% of Welsh adults don’t think to visit an optician first for eye-related issues, often turning to overstretched NHS services instead. By encouraging patients to make opticians their first point of contact for issues like sudden vision loss or painful eyes, Specsavers aims to change this narrative.

Britton elaborated: “Optometrists are equipped to handle many urgent eye issues, often faster and more effectively than traditional NHS routes. By improving awareness, we’re not only providing faster care but also reducing unnecessary strain on the NHS.”

The grand reopening event promises to be a celebration of both innovation and community spirit, featuring live music from the Haverfordwest Male Voice Choir and appearances by local dignitaries, including Pembrokeshire mayors. Specsavers has also committed to a year of community-focused initiatives in 2025, cementing its role as more than just a business – but a vital part of Pembrokeshire life.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, praised the investment: “At a time when many towns are struggling, Specsavers’ decision to invest in Haverfordwest demonstrates confidence in our community’s future. This new store is not just a healthcare milestone – it’s a cornerstone of our town’s regeneration.”

With flexible seven-day-a-week hours and a commitment to both innovation and accessibility, Specsavers Haverfordwest is a shining example of how Pembrokeshire continues to defy national trends in healthcare decline. For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.

Pembrokeshire is truly fortunate to have such a forward-thinking service at its heart, proving that even in challenging times, innovation and care can thrive.

RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat’s volunteer crew was paged yesterday at 3:32pm after a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) was activated near Strumble Head. Further information revealed that three PLBs had been triggered, suggesting multiple casualties.

The RNLI St Davids Lifeboat was also launched, alongside teams from HM Coastguard Fishguard, St Davids, Dale, and a rescue helicopter.

Upon arrival, a group of seven experienced sea kayakers was found struggling against worsening conditions as darkness fell. Located beneath cliffs, their attempts to call for help using VHF radios and 999 were unsuccessful, prompting them to activate their PLBs.

The Fishguard volunteer crew worked meticulously to recover the kayakers one at a time. Four kayaks were brought aboard Fishguard Lifeboat, while St Davids Lifeboat retrieved the remaining three.

Casualty assessments identified one kayaker suffering from the cold. Crew trained in casualty care provided assistance during the return journey to Fishguard.

At Lower Town, the two lifeboats collaborated to transfer all equipment to Fishguard Lifeboat before the casualties and their possessions were handed over to HM Coastguard Fishguard.

Preparedness saves lives

The kayakers were praised for their preparedness, having carried the correct equipment and staying together during the ordeal. Their decision to activate multiple PLBs provided a clear indication of the number of casualties and their location, facilitating a swift response.

The RNLI reminds all water users to carry adequate safety equipment, keep means of communication within reach, and consider factors like cliffs that may hinder emergency calls. Proper preparation and planning can make a vital difference in emergencies.

DRIVERS were urged to exercise caution earlier today (Sunday, Dec 1) after heavy overnight rain caused localised flooding across South Pembrokeshire.

The B4320 between Monkton and Hundleton was closed in both directions at 9:30am, with police shutting the stretch between Mill Back and Bowett Close. Dyfed-Powys Police advised road users to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

The B4318 at Gumfreston was also closed after officers described road conditions as “extremely poor.” Nearby, Clicketts Lane was affected by floodwater.

Earlier in the day, the A478 between New Hedges and Pentlepoir was also closed due to flooding but reopened by mid-morning.

Not all drivers heard advice to avoid flooded roads in time. At Quoits Mill on the B4320, one motorist became stranded in floodwater. Fortunately, help arrived to tow the vehicle from its waterlogged position.

Photo credit: Martin Cavaney Photography