News
Withybush medics pitch in during multi-agency exercise
MEDICS based at Withybush General Hospital in Haverfordwest have taken part in a multi-agency simulation aimed at testing their clinical skills under pressure.
Dr Antony Mathew, an Emergency Department (ED) consultant at Withybush, led a team of ED and anaesthesia doctors and nurses during the exercise, which saw them working alongside paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust and the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS Cymru) critical care team.
The challenging scenario tested their skills in dealing with a “patient” with a life-threatening head injury, who required life-saving resuscitation and time-critical transfer to University Hospital Wales, Cardiff, for neurosurgical care.
The aim of the exercise – which took place within the Withybush Clinical Skills Lab – was to reinforce EMRTS Cymru’s aim of developing an innovative healthcare culture, leading to more efficient teamwork, and improved clinical care for the most critically ill and injured patients across Wales.
Dr Mathew said: “It’s really important for us to be able to take part in exercises like these which help to improve the way we work within various hospital teams, and with retrieval services like EMRTS. It also helps us to understand the capabilities of EMRTS as well.”
With support from Medical Illustrator Steve Atherton, the training was recorded to allow medics to review real-time clinical handovers, resuscitation and retrieval processes using video playback. A debriefing session was subsequently lead by Dr. James Chinery, from EMRTS Cymru, in the emergency department.
Dr Chinery said: “As well as the emergency medical services we provide, EMRTS Cymru also aims to play an important role in supporting education and training in critical care across Wales.
“Working on a ‘live’ simulation with colleagues from Withybush and the Welsh Ambulance Service offered valuable realistic training which will enhance the skills and knowledge of everyone who took part. This will undoubtedly benefit the people of Wales and the quality of treatment that they receive.”
This is the third Insitu-Sim engagement event between EMRTS Cymru, WAST and NHS Wales. In the coming months visits to Bronglais, Bangor, Rhyl and Bridgend are being actively planned.
Launched in April 2015, EMRTS Cymru provides pioneering emergency medical care across Wales. This includes pre-hospital critical care and time-critical transfers for all age groups. The Service is made up of consultants and CCPs (paramedics and nurses) who are able to deliver innovative emergency treatments previously not available outside of a hospital environment.
The EMRTS medics travel on board the Wales Air Ambulance Charity helicopters and in a fleet of Rapid Response Vehicles which enable them to reach the scene of a medical emergency as fast as possible.
Dorian James, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Locality Manager for Pembrokeshire, said: “While the exercise might look and feel very dramatic, the reality is that our crews and fellow clinicians encounter scenarios like this every day, all over Wales.
“These exercises are designed to strengthen inter-agency working and enable colleagues to deliver the best possible care to those who are unfortunate enough to need it. It also gives each agency a snapshot of one other’s capabilities and more importantly gives us all the chance to work together in a real environment.”
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
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
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
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.
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