Community

Church wins heritage lottery fund support

Published

11 years ago

January 23, 2014

ST JEROME’S Church in Llangwm has received initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to undertake the medieval church’s renovation and to create an exhibition that tells the story of the immigration of a people who fled the collapse of sea defences in Flanders and came to Pembrokeshire to make their homes at the start of the 12th century.

Development funding of £17,700 has been awarded to help the church and the Heritage Llangwm team develop their plans to enable them to apply for a full grant to carry out the work, at a later date.

St Jerome’s Church was built by Flemish craftsmen around 1200; then in 1830 and 1879 the church underwent modernisation work that lost much of the building’s original medieval character.

But enough remained to inspire Llangwm’s Local History Society to investigate more about the church’s early history. This project when completed will see a church building well suited for the 21st century with a toilet and kitchen facility as well as environmentally friendly heating.

In addition, members of the Llangwm community will conduct extensive research into the village’s Flemish and medieval past. The aim is to create a state of art exhibition in the church telling the story of the Flemish settlement.

The exhibition will be able to be concealed from view during worship. This project will also create an opportunity for the whole village community, young and old to take part.

“This is a marvellous opportunity,” said Pamela Hunt, Chair of the Heritage Llangwm Team. “We have a church in desperate need of renovation, so while we are achieving that, why not create an exhibition that pays tribute to the very people who built it in the first place? We know so little about them at the moment, but that doesn’t stop us finding out. If you imagine the Fleming story as a 500-piece jigsaw that’s lost all but 50 of its original pieces.

“When this project is complete, we hope to have found another 300, enough to enable us to create a clearer picture of the lifestyle and culture of the people who made this part of Wales their home? And it doesn’t end there either. We have been running a successful series of concerts in the church since 2007. We plan to enhance the existing facilities to make for improved concert and of course worship experience.”

The Rev Jane Goupillon, Rector of Llangwm, concurs. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to be able to preserve this wonderful medieval building.

Worship has continued here unabated for over 800 years. This grant will enable us to continue to do so for many years to come and most importantly opening our doors to more visitors whether they come for worship, our concerts or the exhibition. All will be welcome here.”

Jennifer Stewart, Head of the HLF in Wales, said “Places of worship are a powerful, visual connection with our past and always tell a powerful, local story. The future plans for this building means that it can be enjoyed more widely throughout the community. There is certainly an interesting story to be told at St Jerome’s and I am delighted that we have been able to award a grant to help develop the plans for this exciting project, further.”

The entire project is expected to be completed by April 2016, just in time to mark the 700th anniversary to the day of the marriage of Lady Johanna and Sir David De la Roche, the biggest ‘society’ wedding that St. Jerome’s Church has ever witnessed.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

53 mins ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

10 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

12 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.