SWIMMERS plunged into the freezing waters at West Angle Bay on New Year’s Day to raise thousands of pounds for local hospice care, as the annual Angle Dip returned with one of its most successful events yet.

The 2026 dip raised £2,694.36 for the Paul Sartori Foundation, helping fund free hospice-at-home services for families across the county.

Crowds gathered along the sands at West Angle Bay to cheer on participants, with a mix of seasoned dippers and first-timers taking to the sea in fancy dress and wetsuits for the traditional New Year challenge. Despite the icy conditions, spirits remained high, with supporters lining the beach to clap, shout encouragement and donate.

Organisers said the event once again highlighted the strong community support behind the charity and its work.

A number of local businesses and groups helped make the day possible, including Wavecrest Café, The Hibernia Inn, KJ Prints, Cwtch Laser Designs, Communic8, Axon, Pembrokeshire Paddlers, and a team of volunteers from the foundation.

Every penny raised will go towards providing practical and emotional support for people living with life-limiting illness. The charity offers hands-on nursing care, equipment hire, complementary therapies, advance care planning and bereavement support, enabling patients to remain at home with loved ones at the end of life.

Joanne Lutwyche, Event and Fundraising Officer for the Paul Sartori Foundation and founder of the Angle New Year’s Day Dip, said: “This year’s dip was absolutely brilliant. The energy on the beach, the support from the community and the bravery of every single dipper made this one of our best years yet.

“I am so grateful to everyone who turns up, volunteers, donates and shouts encouragement from the sidelines. Events like this have a direct impact on our clinical team, allowing them to continue providing essential care to people with life-limiting illness in their own homes. I could not be prouder of what our community achieved together.”

For details of upcoming events or to volunteer, visit the Paul Sartori Foundation website or email [email protected].

Pupil remanded into youth detention as attempted murder case sent to Crown Court

A TEENAGER has been charged with attempted murder following an alleged knife attack on a teacher at Milford Haven Comprehensive School.

The 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons because of his age, appeared before magistrates at the weekend after the incident at the Pembrokeshire secondary school on Thursday afternoon (Feb 5).

He faces charges of attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and possession of a bladed article on education premises.

Magistrates heard the alleged attack took place shortly after 3:00pm while the teacher was working with the pupil in a classroom. It is claimed the boy used a kitchen knife during the incident.

The female teacher suffered injuries to her head, finger and back and was taken to hospital for treatment.

The defendant spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the short hearing. Members of his family were present in court.

The case was deemed too serious to be dealt with at magistrates’ level and has been sent to Swansea Crown Court.

He was remanded into youth detention accommodation.

The teenager is due to appear before the Crown Court on Monday, March 9.

Police and education officials have not released further details at this stage

STUDENTS training for careers at sea in Pembrokeshire are set to benefit from enhanced practical learning after fresh backing from the Port of Milford Haven.

Learners on the Marine Engineering Pre-Cadetship at Pembrokeshire College will now receive additional hands-on maritime training, funded by the Port, alongside their classroom studies.

Launched in 2023, the enhanced programme is aimed at young people hoping to enter the maritime, deck and engineering sectors. It combines technical teaching with industry-focused skills to help students prepare for work at sea.

For the past three years, the Port has covered the cost of uniforms to encourage professionalism and team spirit among cadets. This year, its support has been widened to include a series of accredited practical courses delivered through the Royal Yachting Association.

These include radar operations, first aid training for mariners, navigation and seamanship, and professional practices and responsibilities — qualifications designed to give students recognised safety and operational skills before entering the industry.

Brian Stewart, Assistant Harbourmaster at the Port of Milford Haven, said the training provides valuable real-world preparation.

He said: “The Pre-Cadetship training at Pembrokeshire College gives students a real insight into life in the maritime, deck and engineering sectors, while building key qualities such as discipline and teamwork. It’s great to see these enhanced practical opportunities being offered this year, which will provide students with invaluable experience and a clearer pathway into our diverse industry.”

Tim Berry, maritime lecturer in the college’s Faculty of Engineering and Computing, said the extra funding would make a “tangible difference” to learners.

He added: “These RYA-accredited practical courses allow the Pre-Cadets to translate classroom theory into real maritime skills, building their confidence and readiness for a career at sea. We’re incredibly proud of the opportunities this partnership continues to create for the next generation of marine engineers.”

The Port, one of the county’s largest employers, has increasingly worked with local education providers to encourage young people into maritime and energy-related careers, helping retain skills and opportunities within Pembrokeshire.

More information about the Marine Engineering Pre-Cadetship is available at pembrokeshire.ac.uk.

Cover photo:

Pre-Cadetship students with lecturer Tim Berry and Port of Milford Haven representatives Brian Stewart and Emily Jones (Pic supplied).