News
UKIP announces Police and Crime Commissioner candidate
THE UKIP candidate for the Police and Crime Commissioner elections in May will be former Dyfed Powys Police Superintendant Des Parkinson.
Mr Parkinson, who served the force for 29 years, was also the National Assistant Secretary of the Police Superintendants’ Association.
During his time on the force, the former plasterer worked in Carmarthen, Llanelli and Fishguard, before being promoted to Inspector at Aberystwyth then Superintendant at Newtown.
In 1993 he was promoted to chief superintendent and given the job of National Assistant Secretary of the Police Superintendents’ Association of England & Wales. The post was based in Berkshire and involved working closely with senior civil servants in the Home Office, Home Office ministers and chief constables. He took over the National Secretary’s job when he retired three years later, becoming the first Welsh person to hold either of those posts.
During his time at the Superintendents’ Association, he regularly wrote policy papers, gave national and local radio and television interviews and lobbied ministers to make changes to the law. With others, he successfully campaigned to scrap the double jeopardy law and persuaded the then Home Secretary, Michael Howard to introduce the paedophile register.
Mr Parkinson said: “I’m delighted to put myself forward for this role. Policing runs through my veins and I strongly believe my experience and passion will drive me to make the bold decisions we need to take in order to bring the force’s operations in Dyfed Powys to their highest level.
“I spent 29 years of my life in the Dyfed Powys Police and I am a great supporter of it and the people it serves. I believe I understand policing and know how it can be best organised to work in the interests of the public. My core beliefs are:
a. That policing is at its best when it is local.
b. That cuts to front line policing and police stations should be avoided whenever possible.
c. That where cuts have to be made they should be made to back office functions.
d. That police force amalgamations in Wales would be a bad thing but cooperation between police forces on things like administration should be encouraged.
e. That police offers and civilian staff need to be supported in carrying out their often difficult and dangerous duties, not criticised, as so often happens now
f. That the use of so called ‘Road Safety’ cameras to make money by prosecuting drivers for speeding just above the legal limit should be ended.”
UKIP Wales Leader Nathan Gill said: “Having a candidate like Des representing us is phenomenally exciting. His calibre and experience are second to none. He’s the obvious choice for Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed Powys and I really hope the electorate get behind him.”
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.
Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.
The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.
Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.
Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.
As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.
For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.
With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.
At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.
The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”
With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.
Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.
Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.
Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.
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