News
Trip of a lifetime for schoolboy
FOURTEEN YEAR OLD Pembroke schoolboy Charlie has just returned from the trip of a lifetime, as the solitary Pembrokeshire representative in a St John Cymru- Wales team of twelve cadets aged 14 to 17 selected to take part in the 2016 International Cadet Camp.
This exciting initiative, which brings together members of St John from different parts of the world, has been organized since the midnineties in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore and leads to the strengthening of relationships among its members from different parts of the world irrespective of differences in culture, beliefs and resources.
Hong Kong was a particularly fitting location for this year’s camp, which was held between January 2- 10, because this is its centenary and the ICC was but one of a series of activities planned for this special year in the society’s history.
Charlie was clearly delighted by the Welsh team’s success (they came fifth overall) and is convinced that the experience has given him greater confidence to deal with his future work as a volunteer and then hopefully, as he pursues a career in medicine.
As for the teeth Charlie explained: “Hong Kong was fantastic. The food was brilliant and the weather was interesting and sticky. There were different scenarios in which we were all judged and I was really chuffed that Team Wales came fifth.
“We did a lot of different things such as working in homes for the elderly and in homeless shelters. The language barrier was obviously a challenge though, and my best memory is that of teaching a WW2 veteran how to clean his teeth when we didn’t speak the same language.
“I remember trying to explain that I was not going to touch his teeth. I told him ‘I’m not doing it for you. I don’t speak the same language as you but somehow I am going to have to get this done’. He did brush them eventually, and I am glad to tell you that he was smiling broadly at the end.
“But the best thing of all was meeting lots of people from so many diverse cultures. This has given me so much more confidence and I’ve been told others have noticed it too.”
Charlie had to raise £2500 to cover the cost of the trip and did much of this through such ordinary fund raising activities as bucket collections and curry nights. But he also raised support in more exotic style too by abseiling down the keep at Pembroke Castle.
He is keen to say thank you to all who helped him raise the funds not least St John Cymru Wales who covered the shortfall with a grant.
Charlie says he would do it all again without any hesitation and adds: “It’s definitely something worth doing. It might seem pretty daunting when you realize you have to raise that amount of money but I can truly say it’s definitely worth the effort”.
Speaking on behalf of the local St Johns group Sam Davies, Member in charge of cadets, said: “All of us at the Tenby/Pembroke division of St John Cymru-Wales are extremely proud of what Charlie has achieved. Charlie raised nearly £2500 which funded the trip and has come back a much more confident and enthusiastic person.
“I want to stress that this was a genuine competition in which they competed for Wales as a team and they were genuinely tested on their first aid and nursing skills. As a division we look forward to sending more young people from the area on international trips with St John Cymru-Wales.”
The next International Cadet Camp is scheduled for 2018 and will be held in South Africa.
Business
5.4 million yet to file tax return – HMRC issues a warning
NEARLY 25,000 taxpayers began the new year by completing their Self Assessment tax returns on January 1, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has revealed. An additional 38,000 individuals submitted their returns on December 31, with 310 filing just before midnight.
With less than a month until the January 31 deadline, HMRC warns that 5.4 million people still need to file their returns to avoid penalties. Filing and paying on time supports public services and the government’s economic stability initiatives.
Avoid Penalties by Filing on Time
Failing to meet the January 31, 2025, deadline for the 2023-24 tax year could result in an initial penalty of £100. Additional charges apply for prolonged delays:
- After three months: £10 daily fines up to £900.
- After six months: 5% of the tax owed or £300, whichever is greater.
- After 12 months: A further 5% or £300, whichever is greater.
Late payments also incur a 5% penalty after 30 days, six months, and 12 months, plus interest on unpaid amounts.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC Director General for Customer Services, urged taxpayers to act promptly:
“Completing your tax return may not be the most exciting task, but filing and paying on time is essential to avoid penalties or interest charges. The easiest way to do this is via our online services on GOV.UK.”
Support for Taxpayers
Around 97% of taxpayers now file online, benefiting from features such as saving progress and returning later to complete their submissions. Payments can also be made securely through the HMRC app, which includes reminders for deadlines.
For those struggling to meet the deadline, HMRC advises contacting them before January 31 to discuss reasonable excuses.
Who Needs to File a Tax Return?
Taxpayers must complete a Self Assessment if they:
- Are newly self-employed and earned over £1,000.
- Earned below £1,000 but wish to pay Class 2 National Insurance Contributions.
- Became a partner in a business partnership.
- Received untaxed income exceeding £2,500.
- Receive Child Benefit and must pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge due to earnings above £50,000.
Beware of Scams
HMRC warns taxpayers to remain vigilant against fraud. Criminals often use emails, texts, or calls to steal personal and financial information. Taxpayers can verify suspicious communications by searching “HMRC tax scams” on GOV.UK.
For more information, resources, and step-by-step guidance, visit GOV.UK or watch HMRC’s tutorials on YouTube.
Community
Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre Open Day: A Warm Welcome to All
THE HAMAD BIN KHALIFA Islamic Centre in Milford Haven is delighted to invite the people of Pembrokeshire and beyond to its Community Open Days on Saturday, January 18, and Sunday, January 19, from 11:00am to 4:00pm on both days.
This annual event provides a unique opportunity to learn about Islamic culture, connect with members of the local Muslim community, and enjoy a range of engaging activities and exhibits. Highlights include:
- Exhibition of Islamic culture: Featuring traditional calligraphy demonstrations.
- Guided tours of the mosque: Explore the beautifully restored Tabernacle building on Charles Street, Milford Haven, located next to the old police station.
- Refreshments: Provided for visitors on both days.
A message of welcome
Sheikh Mohsen Elbeltagi, a leader at the centre, shared his enthusiasm for the event, saying:
“We are proud to be a part of this wonderful community and are appreciative of the support that we have received. Extensive repair and renovation of such a historic building in the town has given us a beautiful, social venue from which we extend a warm welcome to both Pembrokeshire’s Islamic and wider communities.”
Dress code reminder for female visitors
The mosque kindly reminds female visitors to adhere to the Islamic custom of dressing modestly while on the premises. This includes covering the body appropriately. For guidance on suitable attire, online resources are available to assist.
A centre for cultural connection
The Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre serves as both a spiritual and cultural hub for Milford Haven’s Muslim community and its surrounding areas. It hosts five daily prayers, a weekly Friday sermon led by Sheikh Mohsen, and is committed to fostering understanding, building bridges, and creating an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome to learn and share experiences.
Event Details
The open days are free of charge, and everyone is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Sheikh Mohsen Elbeltagi at [email protected].
Take this opportunity to explore, learn, and celebrate diversity in Milford Haven!
Entertainment
Musical treat at The Lyric Theatre in Carmarthen
A SPECIAL charity concert at The Lyric Theatre in Carmarthen this month promises to be a musical extravaganza, featuring the world-famous Cory Band and the acclaimed Bella Voce female vocal group.
Organised by the Carmarthen Tywi Rotary Club, the concert will take place on Saturday, January 18, at 7:30pm. Proceeds from the evening will support local charities and worthy causes.
A spokesperson for Carmarthen Tywi Rotary Club said: “This is a wonderful way to ring in the New Year with the breathtaking Cory Band and the stunning harmonies of Bella Voce. Tickets are expected to sell quickly as the Cory Band, the current Welsh Brass Band champions, bring their exceptional talent to Carmarthen. It’s brass band music at its finest.”
Tickets in demand
Tickets are priced at £22.50 and £20 and can be purchased through The Lyric box office, the Theatrau Sir Gâr website, or by calling 0345 226 3510.
The Cory Band: A global sensation
The Cory Band, formed in 1884 and later named after colliery owner Sir Clifford Cory, is renowned worldwide for its exceptional brass music. Under the baton of musical director Philip Harper since 2012, the band has won numerous prestigious titles, including European, National, and British Open championships.
For an unprecedented 16 years (2007–2023), the Cory Band held the title of the world’s No.1 ranked brass band. Their innovative approach has made them a trailblazer in the genre, and in 2022 they received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for their contributions to the brass band movement.
The band’s repertoire, described as scintillating, engaging, and universally appealing, has earned them acclaim from audiences across the globe. Beyond competitions, the Cory Band has toured extensively in countries including Australia, the USA, and South Korea. They are also the resident ensemble at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.
Bella Voce: Pembrokeshire’s pride
Pembrokeshire-based vocal group Bella Voce, led by musical director Sarah Benbow and accompanist Seimon Morris, is celebrated for its versatility and stunning performances. Comprising professional women with rich musical backgrounds—including multiple music degrees and Grade 8 qualifications—the group achieves excellence with minimal rehearsal time.
Known for their adaptability across genres, Bella Voce has performed alongside icons such as Max Boyce, the Three Welsh Tenors, and Katherine Jenkins, as well as at prestigious venues including St Davids Cathedral and the Royal Albert Hall.
A Rotary Club spokesperson added: “Bella Voce captivates audiences with their breathtaking sound and extraordinary talent. Their instrumental and vocal soloists add a unique touch to their performances, which makes every concert unforgettable.”
Hosted by a local favourite
The evening will be compered by Robert Lloyd, former editor of the Carmarthen Journal and past president of Llanelli Rotary Club.
This is a rare opportunity to enjoy two outstanding musical acts in one evening while supporting a great cause. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable night at The Lyric Theatre
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