News
Award nomination for Coastal Forum
PEMBROKESHIRE Coastal Forum (PCF) is in the running to land an EU award for its partnership approach to minimising disturbance in Pembrokeshire’s European Marine Sites.
A team of independent experts from across Europe have considered the collaborative work by PCF and its partners in developing groundbreaking projects including the Outdoor Charter and Marine Code.
David Jones, CEO of Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, commenting on the news:
“It is great to hear that even on an EU level the things we do here in Pembrokeshire are valued. These projects have been developed in collaboration over the last 10 years and are still playing a key role in protecting our seas and coast. Without stakeholder engagement and involvement from a wide range of partners they would not have such a positive impact.
“We are one of only 4 projects to be shortlisted in the UK, the only one in Wales, and we also have an opportunity to win the European Citizens’ Award. This is totally dependent on a public vote so if you can, please take two minutes and help us by voting online.”
Sue Burton, Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation Officer, added: “The work of the Marine Code and Outdoor Charter in Pembrokeshire has combined the needs of wildlife with those of users and activity providers to come up with ways to minimise impacts to the environment. The work has been a great way of raising awareness of the Pembrokeshire Marine SAC with recreational users.”
Every day, thousands of Europeans invest time, energy and knowledge in protecting nature.
The European Commission is again recognising these achievements through the Natura 2000 Awards for outstanding services in management and conservation of the EU’s network of protected areas.
Twenty-four finalists have now been selected from the 83 applications by an expert team of evaluators. They include projects from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, Finland, France, Hungary, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Romania, and the United Kingdom.
The Awards, now in their third year, are intended to raise awareness about the Natura 2000 network, highlighting its successes and demonstrating the role it plays in protecting nature and promoting social and economic wellbeing.
Reacting to the announcement, Karmenu Vella, EU Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries said: “These awards are a great advert for an outstanding network. I am delighted to see so many innovative activities being showcased, with such indisputable benefits for citizens and for nature. If you love nature, have a look at the lists – your vote will help give these remarkable projects the recognition they deserve.”
The finalists in five categories – Conservation, Socio-Economic Benefits, Communication, Reconciling Interests/Perceptions, and Networking and Cross-Border Cooperation – will now be assessed by an independent jury. Citizens too are invited to vote for their favourite shortlisted initiative to win the European Citizens’ Award. Online voting closes on May 8, 2016. The winners will be announced at a ceremony hosted by Commissioner Vella in Brussels on Monday, May 23, 2016.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Chief Executive, Tegryn Jones said: “Natura sites not only play a huge role in conservation but also in attracting visitors to Pembrokeshire, where the islands and coast are important in terms of wildlife watching and enjoyment. We have worked with PCF and partners in supporting these projects for over a decade and welcome the news that our work has been noticed by the Commission.”
Entertainment
Cardigan musician to perform climate fundraiser concert
CLASSICALLY trained Cardigan musician Rosalind Powell will perform a concert of original alternative pop songs next month in aid of Cardigan Extinction Rebellion.
The concert, Singing for the Future, takes place at St Mary’s Old School Hall, Cardigan, on Saturday, June 6, at 7:00pm.
Rosalind, who has a music degree from Cambridge University, is a composer, pianist and teacher of piano, singing and music theory.
The concert will show another side of her musicianship, with a programme of original songs drawn from her three albums, Sound Eagle, Circumference and Dragonfly.
It follows a successful recent launch event for Sound Eagle at the Cellar Bar.
Rosalind said: “Climate change and biodiversity loss are issues that I care deeply about, and I’m so pleased to be able to give my support through music.
“Our future is threatened by the climate and nature crises, but so many people are doing positive things to improve the situation and bring us hope. I’m glad this fundraiser will help towards that.”
Tickets will be available on the door, with a suggested price of £8, although those who cannot afford the full amount can pay less. Teas, coffees and cakes will also be available.
Rosalind’s Sound Eagle album recently received a warm review from The Pit London music site, which described it as “a dreamy and reflective world” and praised its blend of alternative pop, soft jazz influences and classical piano.
Rosalind said she has already been featured on 15 radio stations, will perform at Llangollen Fringe’s Music Around Town event in September, and is planning a West Wales tour later this year.
The concert falls on the first day of Great Big Green Week. Weather permitting, Cardigan Extinction Rebellion will also hold a street stall on Wednesday, June 10, giving away plants, seeds and information about gardening for wildlife.
News
Car bursts into flames near Redberth Croft as road closed after incident
Nobody injured after vehicle fire near A477 prompts emergency response
A CAR was destroyed by fire near the entrance to Redberth Croft on Tuesday evening (May 19), prompting a road closure while emergency services made the area safe.
The incident happened just off the A477 at Redberth, where a vehicle caught fire and rolled into a hedge and the new entranceway to Redberth Croft.
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze.

In a statement shared on social media, Redberth Croft thanked firefighters for their rapid response.
The business said: “A huge thank you to the Fire Brigade for their swift response in safely putting out a car fire that rolled into our hedge and new entranceway at Redberth Croft.
“Thankfully nobody was hurt, and we’re incredibly grateful for the professionalism and quick action of the emergency services.”
Photos from the scene show the vehicle completely burnt out, with extensive damage to the engine bay and interior, as firefighters worked nearby.
Motorists were warned to avoid the area while the road remained closed for safety reasons.
Redberth Croft added: “Please be aware that this is just off the A477 next to our new entrance, and the road is currently closed while the area is made safe. Please avoid the area and take care if travelling nearby.”
It is not yet known what caused the fire or whether any other vehicles were involved.

Photo caption:
Burnt out: Fire crews at the scene after a car rolled into the hedge near the entrance to Redberth Croft (Pics: Redberth Croft)
Community
Milford Haven mourns loss of ‘legend’ Muci Power
Tributes pour in for former Lord Kitchener landlord
TRIBUTES have flooded in from across Milford Haven following the death of Alan Edward Thomas “Muci” Power, remembered as a “true legend” and one of the town’s best-known characters.
Mr Power, affectionately known as Muci, passed away suddenly but peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Sunday, May 10, aged 79.
Best known to many as the former landlord of the Lord Kitchener public house in Milford Haven — affectionately known as “The Kitch” — Muci became a familiar and much-loved figure in the town, known for his humour, friendship and larger-than-life personality.
The devoted husband of Meryl, father, grandfather and great-grandfather leaves behind a family at the centre of Milford life, while countless friends have spoken of the memories they shared with him over many years.
The Royal British Legion paid tribute, saying: “Rest in peace, Muci. You will be dearly missed by us all here at the Royal British Legion. Thank you for the memories and your presence in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones during this difficult time.”
Hundreds of tributes have also been posted online, with many describing Muci as a “Milford legend” whose passing marks the end of an era.
Friends remembered good times at The Kitch, where Muci was at the heart of local life for many years.
Ryan Hackett wrote: “Will have a T.A.C. for you mate on Tuesday. Will miss you Matey. Another Milford legend gone.”
Simon Jenkins said: “Muci was one in a million, a true legend. Milford has lost a true gent.”
Many spoke of his warmth and generosity, with Nigel Hackett thanking him for “being there when I needed someone.”
Muci was the devoted husband of Meryl, dearly loved father and father-in-law of Karl and Claire, and Hayley and Roy, proud grandfather of Morgan, Sam, Caitlin and Jay, and adored great-grandfather of Amalie.
His funeral service will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Tuesday, May 26, at 11:30am.
For those wishing to pay their respects, the hearse will leave the Lord Kitchener, Charles Street, Milford Haven, at 10:40am.
Immediate family flowers only.
All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel: 01646 693180.
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