News

Compensation after life-changing injuries

Published

9 years ago

May 3, 2016

Tom Sinclair

Popular Milford venue: Circles Nightclub (Now The Basement)

MARK TIERNEY has been awarded what he and lawyers see as fair compensation eight years on from a near-lethal assault, which left him severely brain damaged.

On the evening of December 2 2007 Mark Tierney was in Circles Nightclub, Milford Haven, and later that night he was involved in an incident with Christopher John Freeman, formerly from the town, who was said to have assaulted him using a vodka bottle, which caused the lifechanging injuries.

During court proceedings which followed, Freeman denied that he had used the bottle as a weapon and also pleaded not guilty to charges of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm with intent and causing GBH without intending to do so. However, he admitted to having offered the Circles nightclub manager £5,000 to delete video recordings of him coming and going from the premises.

THE EVIDENCE

Freeman claimed that the attack had taken place while he was walking home to his flat in the centre of the town, and said that he was first attacked by Mr Tierney, a point that was greatly contested by the prosecution.

The manager of Circles, Chris Thomas, told the court that, after the attack, a bouncer followed Freeman into the gents, where he saw two men with mobile phones in a cubicle and overheard a man saying that he needed to leave Wales that night as he thought he had killed Tierney.

The other man who was in the stall with Freeman, Mr Julian Walker, was also in court being accused of arranging for Freeman’s clothes to be washed in order to remove any forensic evidence. He denied a charge of undertaking an act tending to pervert the course of justice.

The prosecution said that, although Walker was not involved in the attack, he knew that Freeman had unlawfully assaulted someone.

During the attack Tierney sustained a severe, traumatic brain injury which means that he requires lifelong care.

Represented by law firm Hugh James, Mark was involved in an arduous eight year battle before he was finally awarded compensation for the ‘serious nature’ of his injuries and significant loss of earnings.

Mark Tierney, was formerly a pipe fitter from Barry, and had been working in Milford Haven. He was out socialising with friends and colleagues before the brutal assault took place during the early hours of the morning.

NO RECOLLECTION

The injuries Mark sustained were ‘so severe’ that he has no recollection of the incident.

He was found lying unconscious on his back by a passer-by in the street after the incident.

After being rushed to hospital he was treated at the Intensive Care Unit at Withybush Hospital for two weeks, and remained in a coma for a further four.

His level of consciousness was recorded as being 3/15 on the Glasgow coma scale (indicating deep unconsciousness) and CT scans revealed a left side scalp haematoma, nasal fracture and swelling of the brain.

Since then, Mark has suffered ongoing cognitive problems, intellectual deficit, behavioural problems, poor balance, speech and language difficulties.

As a result, his 25 year relationship with his partner completely broke down; he is unable to return to work and now requires care and support, which is provided by his three daughters.

Speaking about the incident, Mark said: “The attack has had a huge effect on my family. My youngest daughter, who was only ten years old at the time of the assault, was really affected by what happened to me and then also had to deal with the break-up of my marriage to her mum.

“On a personal level the attack has completely changed how I live my life. Before the attack I was very active, not only in my job but I regularly enjoyed having a kick around playing football which I will never be able to do again. Financially the attack has affected the whole family as I am no longer able to work and support my family.”

CARDIFF LAW FIRM

In 2008, Cardiff-based law firm Hugh James were appointed to represent Mark and his lawyers immediately made an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). In 2010 Hugh James challenged the CICA when they stated that Mark was not eligible to receive an award on the basis that they considered that he had provoked the assault.

However after his lawyers obtained evidence to challenge this, Mark was deemed eligible to receive an award in principle. Hugh James also obtained two interim payments to ease the financial stress on Mark and his family whilst the case was ongoing.

INITIAL OFFER REJECTED

Screen Shot 2016-04-28 at 12.19.48 In 2014, the CICA made a monetary offer to settle the claim but due to the seriousness of his injuries and lifelong loss of earnings, specialist solicitors Hugh James advised Mark to reject the offer on the basis that his claim was worth significantly more.

Cari Sowden-Taylor, a Senior Associate from Hugh James’ Neurolaw team, explained: “Having pursued many CICA brain injury cases and assessing the true value of the claim we were able to advise Mark that we felt that the first offer from the CICA was low in light of the injuries he’d sustained and the financial losses he’d incurred as was likely to incur in the future.

“We therefore advised Mark to request a review of the decision but the CICA remained of the opinion that their offer was reasonable.

“Comprehensive evidence was therefore obtained and submitted to CICA in accordance with the appeal process and the matter was then referred to an independent tribunal panel who agreed with our arguments and as a result Mark was awarded nearly three times the amount that CICA offered him.

“We are delighted with the outcome for Mark and his family and feel that they have finally received some justice since the assault eight years ago.”

CRIMINAL CASE

Christopher Freeman, 37 at the time in May 2008, was cleared of more serious, alternative charges of attempted murder and inflicting GBH with intent.

Freeman, who had previous convictions for violence, was jailed for five years, of which he must serve a minimum of three and a half years behind bars.

The jury at Swansea Crown Court cleared fellow LNG worker Julian Walker, 36, of Rectory Avenue, Hakin, of doing an act tending to pervert the course of justice.

He was accused of arranging for Freeman’s clothes to be washed in order to remove any forensic evidence, knowing that Freeman had assaulted someone.

A third man, Peter Harll, 21, of St Ann’s Road, Milford Haven, had already pleaded guilty to carrying out an act tending to pervert the course of justice by washing Freeman’s clothes. He was jailed for eight months.

For legal reasons the amount of the compensation settlement cannot be revealed.

Health

Eluned Morgan on NHS: ‘I’ve listened, I’ve heard, I’m making it happen’

Published

8 hours ago

November 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FIRST Minister Eluned Morgan is set to announce an additional £22 million to tackle NHS waiting lists, bringing the total funding commitment to £50 million in a bid to address the longest delays in NHS Wales.

The announcement will form a key part of her speech at the Welsh Labour Conference on Saturday in Llandudno, marking her first as Welsh Labour Leader. Morgan will emphasise the strength of partnership between the Welsh and UK Labour Governments, showcasing their shared commitment to delivering for the people of Wales.

The funding pledge comes two weeks after Rachel Reeves unveiled a historic £21 billion funding settlement for the Welsh Government—the largest since devolution. Drawing on her summer listening tour, where she engaged with thousands across Wales, Morgan will declare: “I’ve listened, I’ve heard, I’m making it happen.”

Focus on NHS and Green Growth

During her tour, the First Minister heard the pride people feel for the Welsh NHS and its workforce, as well as the importance of safeguarding its future. Today’s funding boost underscores Welsh Labour’s commitment to addressing key issues, distinguishing it as the only party serious about governance and delivery.

In addition to NHS investment, Morgan will highlight her administration’s ambitions for green jobs and growth. Five new renewable energy projects are set to be unveiled, alongside plans to streamline infrastructure planning by 12 weeks—a move aimed at accelerating progress in Wales. These initiatives are expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs, reinforcing Labour’s commitment to a greener, more prosperous future.

Conservative Perspective on NHS Wales

The Welsh Conservatives have expressed concerns regarding the current state of NHS Wales. They have highlighted issues such as prolonged waiting lists and underfunding, attributing these challenges to longstanding Labour governance. In a recent statement, the Welsh Conservatives emphasized the need for increased investment and support for NHS staff, proposing the establishment of an NHS Covenant to guarantee such commitments.

Additionally, the Welsh Conservatives have criticized the Labour Government for not allocating the full Barnett consequential funding to the Welsh NHS, arguing that this shortfall has exacerbated existing challenges within the health service.

Delivering for Wales

The Conference will celebrate the achievements of the Welsh Labour Government while setting out its future priorities. From tackling NHS challenges to driving renewable energy development, the event will demonstrate Morgan’s focus on the issues that matter most to the people of Wales.

Eluned Morgan’s speech is expected to reaffirm Welsh Labour’s ambition to lead with purpose, listening to the public and working closely with the UK Labour Government to deliver tangible results.

News

Young Changemakers Drive Wales Toward a Net Zero Future

Published

9 hours ago

November 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AS world leaders gathered at COP29 to address global climate challenges, young people in Wales were making their own mark on the path to a greener future. The Tomorrow’s Changemakers Hackathon, held last Friday, showcased the ingenuity, passion, and practical solutions of 26 young finalists from across Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

This flagship event, hosted by Pembrokeshire-based education enterprise Cymbrogi Futures, is part of a year-long programme empowering young learners with the skills and confidence to tackle climate challenges head-on.

THE WINNING IDEA: FAIR FASHION

The team from Queen Elizabeth High School, Carmarthenshire, stole the show with their innovative project addressing fast fashion waste. Their idea? Personalised soft toys crafted from discarded fabric destined for landfill. By engaging with local businesses and charity shops, the team not only demonstrated creativity but also gained practical insights into the environmental impact of textile waste.

Nia John, lead teacher for the team, shared: “This project allowed us to incorporate real-world learning into the classroom. Pupils were thrilled to interact with industry experts, growing their ideas through meaningful collaboration.”

Ariana, the team leader, reflected: “I enjoyed learning skills like collaboration and creativity, which will help me in the future. This experience has inspired me to start our school’s Climate Action group.”

OTHER FINALISTS: CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

Equally impressive was Milford Haven School’s ‘Cafe Cleddau’, a visionary concept featuring a solar-powered boat to connect communities along the Haven waterway. With sustainable snacks, a soft-play area, and hydro-powered backup systems, the idea aimed to revolutionise tourism and nightlife in the region.

All finalist teams received vouchers for the ethical online store Social Supermarket, while the winning team took home a £300 cash prize to fund biodiversity projects at their school.

BUILDING A NET ZERO FUTURE

Cymbrogi’s founder, Liza Lort-Phillips, underlined the importance of initiatives like Tomorrow’s Changemakers:
“Today’s learners will face far greater challenges in a climate-changed world than any of us. By sparking their imaginations now, we can equip them to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.”

The programme was supported by major partners, including the Port of Milford Haven and Cwm Environmental, who provided real-world insights into the challenges and opportunities in Wales’ green economy.

Anna Malloy, Communications and Marketing Director at the Port of Milford Haven, remarked: “This initiative is vital. Empowering the next generation with green skills and confidence ensures they are ready to lead the charge toward a net-zero future.”

A COMMUNITY-ROOTED CHALLENGE

The hackathon is the culmination of a three-stage learning journey inspired by the Well-being of Future Generations Act and the UN Global Goals. The programme began with an online course introducing topics such as the circular economy and systems thinking, followed by mini-challenges rooted in real-world scenarios in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

Learners explored diverse challenges, including:

Sustainable Tourism: Imagining a car-free holiday in Milford Haven.
Energy: Exploring renewable solutions for rural Wales.
Fashion: Tackling fast fashion waste.

The finalists worked with industry experts, visiting sites such as the Port of Milford Haven and Cwm Environmental to gain hands-on experience.

A CALL TO ACTION

Samuel Kurtz, MS for South Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire, praised the event:
“The curiosity and ingenuity of these students are truly inspiring. Their ambition shows they are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead. Initiatives like this are essential for building a resilient and sustainable future.”

Cymbrogi Futures hopes to expand the programme to schools across Wales, with plans to reach Wrexham and Neath Port Talbot in 2025.

As Wales leads the charge toward a net-zero future, the Tomorrow’s Changemakers programme reminds us that the solutions of tomorrow lie in the hands of today’s young minds.

Pictured above: Young innovators: Queen Elizabeth High students celebrate their Fair Fashion project victory (Pic: MHPA).

Community

Port supports Cruising Free’s Atlantic Dash with donation of safety equipment

Published

9 hours ago

November 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has announced a donation of vital safety equipment to support local group Cruising Free, who will be embarking on a challenging 3,200-mile rowing journey across the Atlantic Ocean. The crew of Cruising Free will row from Lanzarote to Antigua to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Paul Sartori Hospice at Home.

The Port of Milford Haven’s donation includes a comprehensive range of safety gear designed to support the crew’s journey and ensure their safety during this extraordinary expedition. Items provided include:

Flare Kit
Satellite Phone
VHF Radios
First Aid Kits
GPS Equipment
Lights
Safety Lines
And more

The Port of Milford Haven, the UK’s leading energy Port, is committed to supporting local maritime initiatives. This donation is a key part of the Port’s ongoing efforts to promote safety in all aspects of maritime activity, particularly for adventurous projects like Atlantic Dash.

“We are proud to support the amazing crew of Cruising Free as they undertake this monumental challenge,” said Mike Ryan, Harbourmaster at the Port of Milford Haven. “Safety is paramount for anyone taking to the sea, and we hope that the equipment we’ve provided will support them as they navigate the Atlantic. Their journey will not only raise vital funds for two incredibly worthwhile causes but also inspire people across the UK and beyond. We are excited to be part of their journey and wish them the very best of luck.”

The Atlantic Dash will see the team of experienced rowers tackle the gruelling transatlantic journey, which is expected to take several weeks. The funds raised by Cruising Free will directly benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, which supports research and care for people living with cystic fibrosis, and the Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, which provides specialist palliative care services to individuals in West Wales.

“We are truly and eternally grateful to Port of Milford Haven who have provided us with the essential safety equipment needed to embark on our 3,200 mile journey from Lanzarote to Antigua. We are hoping not to need to use the flares or safety lines, but the satellite phone and VHF radio will keep us connected with land and loved-ones through the entire 2-month journey. Thank you!” said Polly Zipperlen, team member of Cruising Free.

Cruising Free’s row across the Atlantic will begin in January 2025, and the crew’s journey will be tracked in real time to allow supporters to follow their progress. The team is already actively fundraising and plans to hold several community events in the lead-up to their departure.

To learn more about Cruising Free’s Atlantic Row and how you can support their cause, visit their Linktree here.