News

Gambling addict stole from work mates

Published

11 years ago

January 16, 2014

Tom Sinclair

A MILFORD HAVEN woman appeared in Haverfordwest Magistrates Court on Wednesday to face five charges of theft.

Alison Marie Price, aged 44, of Gleeblands, Hakin, pleaded guilty to all five charges.

Prosecuting, Nicholas Newton said: “The offences occurred between April and September 2013 and relate to Price’s employment. It was theft of money from other employees in the work place. One of the victims, Nicky Davies, had left her coat hanging in the staff room and had £40 stolen from her coat pocket.

“Previous thefts resulted in a hidden camera being installed in the staff room. Footage was viewed, which showed Price taking the money. Upon being arrested, Price pleaded guilty and admitted to further offences of theft on different occasions.

“Previous convictions have been of a dishonest nature, such as false representation under fraud and had received a suspended custodial sentence for this in 2010”.

Defence solicitor, Michael Kelleher said: “Please bear in mind her early guilty plea and her full and frank admissions. The first offence is on camera, though the others have not been proved. She gave full and frank admissions to additional charges.

“Price had become addicted to gambling and had taken out loans to gamble. She has attended gamblers anonymous and is trying to control it. She currently has debts of what she estimates to be around £15,000. This was simply an indication of how desperate she was”.

Probation officer, Julie Norman said: “Until 2010, Price led a normal life. She developed a health issue and had to be signed off sick. While she was out of work, she started to gamble online. She says it was not unusual to spend £1000 a day. She no longer gambles and hasn’t gambled in a long time. She is unable to pay the debt off as her outgoings were more than her income. She could not see another way out other than to steal some money.

“She currently has depression and is signed off sick because of it. She is also scared that she’ll be sent into custody today”.

The magistrates told Price: “We learn about addiction problems via media every day. We have looked at your record and it is atrocious. We are not sending you to prison, but are granting a 12 months suspended custodial sentence for 26 weeks. We are also granting a supervision order and an activity requirement of thinking skills”.

Price was also fined a total of £265, which included compensation for the victims, costs and victim surcharge.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

23 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”