News
Headteacher named for Welsh language school
THE HEAD teacher of Tenby’s new Welsh language school promises a ‘wealth of experiences for all learners’ when the school opens its doors in September.
Pembrokeshire bred Mrs Victoria Hart-Griffiths said ‘I am excited about the challenge that lies before me,’ when she becomes the head of the first Welsh language school in the south of the County.
Ysgol Hafan y Môr, which means the Sea’s Haven School, will teach 120 pupils age 3-11 with numbers expected to rise over the coming years.
Mrs Hart-Griffiths, currently the executive head of Hafodwenog, Bancyfelin and Meidrim schools in Carmarthenshire has gained a reputation for achieving high standards in the classroom ever since she started teaching in 2001.
Her career began at Ysgol Glan Cleddau in Haverfordwest where she spent a term before securing her first permanent teaching role at St Dogmaels Primary school.
From there, Mrs Hart-Griffiths became the teacher in charge of Capel Dewi near Llandysul prior to securing her first headship at Mydroilyn.
Mrs Hart-Griffiths, who also specialises in teaching pupils with additional learning needs, says the opportunity to become the first head at Ysgol Hafan y Môr was too good an opportunity to turn down and she was delighted when she was offered the position.
“This is a ground breaking step for Welsh education in the south of the county and I’m looking forward to working with staff, pupils, governors, parents and the wider community in order to develop high standards and extended opportunities for all learners within the school.”
Chair of Temporary Governing Body Julie Jones says Mrs Griffiths will have their full support to get the school up and running for when it opens.
“There is a huge amount of work to be done between now and the 1st of September when the school opens its doors, and we as a temporary Governing Body have assured Mrs Griffiths that we will give her every support in setting up this historic and ground-breaking school.
“The School is the culmination of the dedication and hard work of all involved in the two Welsh units which began over 35 years ago.
“Those units have grown from strength, especially in the latter years under Mrs Gill John and Mrs Jan Llewellyn. We are committed to maintaining their standards and building upon their good work.”
Mrs Hart-Griffiths will spend a cross over period of 35 days between now and September in order to familiarise herself with all aspects of the new school.
Entertainment
Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday
THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.
For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.
Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.
For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.
Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.
Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).
Crime
Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run
A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.
The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.
Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”
The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.
Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.
Community
Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day
WHAT an amazing Christmas present!
In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.
The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.
The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.
A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.
“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”
Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.
Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.
“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
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