News
Haverfordwest: Amy Rees jailed…and then released
A HAVERFORDWEST woman who stabbed a woman she was in a relationship with and ended up being Tasered by police has been jailed for nine months today.
But 22-year-old Amy Rees was told she would be released immediately because of the time she had spent in jail waiting to be sentenced.
Rees, who stays at a women’s refuge in Haverfordwest when not in jail, admitted assaulting Ceri Elizabeth Lee causing her actual bodily harm, criminal damage, possessing a sharp article in a public place and possessing a small amount of ecstasy.
Stephen Rees, prosecuting, told Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday (Apri 22) how a row developed between the two women at Miss Lee’s home in Goodwick on January 30.
Rees thought she was texting a former partner and grabbed hold of her mobile telephone before throwing it against a wall in the living room and smashing it.
Rees then took hold of a large two pronged kitchen fork and told Miss Lee, “I’m going to kill you. Your kids will find you dead on the sofa.”
But instead of attacking Miss Lee Rees began stabbing her own hand.
Miss Lee left to get help from a neighbour, but without success. When she returned Rees pushed her against a wall and stabbed her in the leg with the fork.
Rees then left, but told Miss Lee, “Don’t think this is over. I’m coming back to kill you.”
Mr Rees said Rees then sent a text message to a friend, Joshua Stephens, in which she again said she would kill Miss Lee.
Mr Stephens then telephoned Rees and was still on the telephone when police officers arrived.
WPC Eleri Rees took over the conversation and persuaded Rees to meet her in a Tesco car park.
When they met the officer tasered Rees to prevent her from stabbing herself.
Mr Rees said Rees already had a long record for violence, which included eight assaults on police officers.
Her barrister, Carina Hughes, said she accepted her relationship with Miss Lee was now over.
Rees, she said, had had difficulties with drugs and alcohol but was trying to overcome them.
The Judge, Mr Justice Knowles, said Rees’ behaviour could have had very serious consequences.
But he wished her good luck in her fight against drugs and alcohol.
Mr Justice Knowles also issued a restraining order banning Rees was going to Goodwick or contacting Miss Lee.
Business
Milford Haven: Wales’ energy hub embraces green transformation
ONCE synonymous with oil and gas, Milford Haven is now poised to lead Wales into a cleaner, greener future—powered by hydrogen.
Green energy pioneer Haush Ltd has chosen Milford Haven as the location for its new UK headquarters, marking a significant step towards establishing the area as a hub for hydrogen innovation. The company’s ambitious plans aim to decarbonise land, sea, and air transport, while also exporting green hydrogen to Europe.
Backed by the Welsh Government through the HYBRID SBRI Hydrogen Port Re-Fuelling Project (HyPR), Haush’s initiative will kick off immediately. The HyPR project supports trials to accelerate hydrogen production and create refuelling solutions for both onshore and offshore vessels. A key part of this effort is designing a permanent hydrogen refuelling infrastructure at the Port of Milford Haven, unlocking its potential as a green energy leader.
For over 65 years, Milford Haven has been a cornerstone of the UK’s oil and gas sector, processing 20% of the nation’s oil and gas. Now, this latest investment signals the beginning of a transformative shift toward renewable energy.
Welsh Government Economy, Energy, and Planning Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Evans, welcomed the move, saying:
“Jobs and green growth are a priority for this Welsh Government, so I am delighted that Haush has chosen Milford Haven as the base for its new UK headquarters. The company’s ambitious growth plans align perfectly with our aspirations to see Wales become a global leader in renewable energy generation.”
Milford Haven’s journey from oil and gas to hydrogen innovation could set a blueprint for green energy transformation in the UK and beyond.
News
Council Tax Premium set to increase for long-term empty properties
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has approved a significant change to the council tax premium on long-term empty properties, aiming to address housing shortages and community impacts.
Starting April 1, 2025, a single premium rate of 300 per cent will be applied to all properties that have been empty for two years or more. This replaces the previous system of incremental increases.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, cabinet member for corporate finance and efficiencies, said:
“The premium is in place to encourage the return of properties into use as much-needed homes in Pembrokeshire and to reduce the impact of empty homes on the communities around them.”
Details of the premium
The premium is an addition to the standard council tax charge and applies across all three elements:
- Pembrokeshire County Council
- Police and Crime Commissioner
- Town and Community Councils
Exemptions and discounts
Property owners undergoing renovations can apply for a council tax exemption if their property requires major repair works or structural alterations. This exemption allows the property to be tax-free for up to 12 months.
If the exemption has already been granted, owners may apply for a discretionary discount, which can be awarded up to the value of the long-term empty property premium. However, the standard council tax charge remains payable in these cases.
Applicants must provide written details of the required works, supported by photographic evidence. Each application is assessed on its individual merits, and the discretionary discount is typically limited to a maximum of 12 months.
National Empty Homes Grant Scheme
Pembrokeshire County Council is also taking part in the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme, which offers grants of up to £25,000 to owners of eligible empty properties. This funding aims to bring more properties back into use and alleviate housing pressures in the county.
For more information about the grant, visit the National Empty Homes Grant website.
To apply for a council tax discount, contact Revenue Services via:
- Email: revenue.services@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
- Post: Revenue Services, County Hall, Haverfordwest, SA61 1TP
News
Heavenly Host of Angels Event at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church
THE HEAVENLY HOST OF ANGELS will be open at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, Milford Haven, this weekend, offering a warm and welcoming space for all.
When:
- Saturday, January 11: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
- Sunday, January 12: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
- Monday, January 13: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Entry is free, and children will receive glow sticks to add to the magical atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to hunt for your angel or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, all are welcome to drop in.
Donations in aid of Wales Air Ambulance are optional and much appreciated.
Additionally, on Sunday, January 12, a special Mass at 9:30am will celebrate the Second Sunday of Epiphany and the Baptism of Christ.
Come along and experience this beautiful event – “Come and See.”
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