News

First ever photograph snapped of Portuguese Blenny in Welsh waters

Published

8 years ago

August 10, 2016

8463765543_f8b7252025_b THE MARINE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (MCS) says a Portuguese Blenny (Parablennius ruber) has been photographed in Welsh waters for the first time.

It was spotted in The Smalls, a popular diving area 18 miles off the Pembrokeshire coast, west of St Brides Bay, by Seasearch diver Kerry Lewis, from Aberystwyth, in late July.

Seasearch is the MCS volunteer dive programme, where divers survey underwater areas around the UK.

MCS Wales Conservation Engagement Officer, Paul Kay, said he was able to identify the photograph taken by Kerry, because he had snapped a Portuguese Blenny off the Aran Island in Galway Bay many years ago and had to have the fish’s identity confirmed by an expert from Madeira.

The Portuguese blenny is quite small only growing up to about 14cm long. It has two quite characteristic head appendages, so it’s similar to its cousin the Tompot Blenny. However it differs in colouration as it is mottled with red rather than brown stripes, and sometimes can be almost entirely bright red. Males have a blue spot on the front of their dorsal fin when ready to breed.

“This Portuguese blenny was well known from far further south. But since my first sighting in some years ago, they’ve been found along the west coasts of both Ireland and Scotland and I’ve even photographed one as far north as St Kilda. It’s also been recorded in the Scillies and the south coast too, but never in Wales. I think this is partly because this little fish actually appears to like very rough, exposed spots and seems to thrive most in what we might think of as areas very difficult to survive in – which of course aren’t easy to dive in either,” says Paul.

Kerry Lewis says the sea conditions when she spotted the little blenny were unusually calm, which is why the South and West Wales Seasearch team, organised by local co-ordinator Kate Lock, were able to get out to The Smalls, an area Kerry says she had wanted to dive for over a decade. “I was thrilled to have taken the first photo of this fish in Wales. When I saw it hopping about amongst the rocks, I assumed it was a juvenile Tompot Blenny, one of the best known fishes from around the UK. They share a striking resemblance, but its coloration and marginal differences in shape differentiate it. Fortunately it stayed still long enough for me to get the picture and when I posted it in the online Seasearch forum it all got quite exciting.”

Confirmation was also obtained from Dr Lin Baldock, Dorset Seasearch Co-ordinator and a small fish expert.

Paul Kay says that despite its name, it’s thought that the Portuguese Blenny is actually a resident of British and Irish waters: “It’s not a recent immigrant from further south, so its presence doesn’t suggest global warming, but actually illustrates just how biodiverse our own seas are and how we are still able to discover new things about them all the time, and why they need protecting and looking after.”

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

7 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

7 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

8 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.