News
Fab Lab joins the heavyweights
PEMBROKESHIRE can lay claim to having some of the most hi-tech design software in the UK following a donation made to Pembroke Dock’s Fab Lab.
Fab Lab, based at the Bridge Innovation Centre (BIC) promotes the advancement of education in science, technology, mathematics, creative design, engineering and business skills, through the media of digital design and manufacturing.
Fab Lab recently took delivery of ‘Solidworks’ a state of the art 3D Computer Aided Design Software (CAD), which allows users to design, build and develop products through digital design and then fabrication.
Donated by the Solidworks Corporation, Bristol based CADTEK provides Fab Lab with technical and design support. CADTEK is a company that provides solutions for designers and engineers across a variety of disciplines and industries, the software allows users to bring their designs to life through computer controlled machines, such as CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) lathes, routers and 3D printers.
Nik Curcio of Pembrokeshire Design Ltd together with Annabelle McLaren, Ellie Wheeler and Thomas Wheeler from Insite Technical Services Ltd, were given a hands on training day by CADTEK to see the software in action.
Insite Technical Services was formed by six engineering and operations managers from the former Murco Refinery in Milford Haven. They offer services in CAD for systems and process design for industrial settings.
Pembrokeshire Design Ltd recently joined the BIC and provides services in 3D Laser Scanning and 3D CAD.
Gethin Davies of CADTEK said that the donation of Solidworks’ licences to Fab Lab provides a great prospect to work with the Lab in developing skills for the future and a relationship that he looks forward to.
He said: “We are keen to see digital design skills develop and to be able to support Fab Lab Pembrokeshire is a remarkable opportunity to work together for the future.”
Mike Scott, director of Indycube and co-trustee of Fab Lab Pembrokeshire said that being able to provide development to schools, businesses and members of the community encapsulates Fab Lab.
Mike said: “We have just started at the beginning of what we hope will be a fantastic journey of offering amazing Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing equipment to skill up the next generation for the digital design age.
“Being able to produce designs for services and products using tools such as Solidworks and then being able to replicate that design into reality using digital fabrication equipment is a dream come true.”
Cabinet Member for Economy and Communities Councillor Keith Lewis was delighted to see Fab Lab open its doors for the first time.
He commented: “These facilities are just what we need to develop technical digital design and digital manufacturing skills in our next generation. I am amazed at what can be done using 3D CAD design and making those designs a reality with 3D printers.
“I am really looking forward to Fab Lab Pembrokeshire and the BIC opening its doors to our schools on the 18th Oct for the BIG BANG so everyone can see what is going on. It’s fantastic.”
News
Pembrokeshire Vikings to Host Christmas Bingo Night
MILFORD HAVEN RFC will play host to a festive evening of fun and prizes as the Pembrokeshire Vikings Mixed Ability Rugby team invites the community to their Christmas Bingo Night.
The event, set for Friday, December 6, promises an evening filled with holiday cheer, mince pies, and an opportunity to win a turkey and other fantastic prizes. Attendees can also enjoy turkey and stuffing rolls available for purchase.
Doors open at 6:30pm, with the games beginning promptly at 7:00pm. The cost to join the festivities is £10 per book, offering a chance to take home great prizes while supporting a valued local team.
The Pembrokeshire Vikings are well-known for their dedication to inclusivity in sport, and events like these help them continue their important work in the community.
For a night of bingo, delicious treats, and holiday fun, head to Milford Haven RFC and join the Vikings in celebrating the season.
Community
Dyfed-Powys Police cadets recognised on International Volunteer Day
DYFED-POWYS Police has celebrated International Volunteer Day by shining a spotlight on its dedicated Police Cadets, who are making a real difference in their communities.
The cadet programme, open to young people aged between 13 and 17, provides opportunities to engage in meaningful community work while developing essential skills. The cadets volunteer their time to support various police initiatives, from organising events to promoting safety campaigns and offering reassurance in the wake of high-profile incidents, such as drugs warrants.
One cadet, Sarah, shared her experience: “Volunteering with the police has taught me valuable skills and allowed me to give back to my community. It’s improved my confidence and it’s rewarding to see the positive impact we can make together.”
The police expressed their gratitude to the cadets for their hard work, dedication, and commitment. A spokesperson said:
“You are the future of community policing, and we appreciate everything you do.”
Join the team
The Police Cadet programme is open for applications. Young people aged 13-17 who are interested in developing their skills, making new friends, and contributing to their community are encouraged to apply via this link.
For those over 17, Dyfed-Powys Police is also recruiting Volunteer Police Cadet Leaders to mentor and inspire the next generation of community policing. More details can be found here.
The programme continues to foster a spirit of service, leadership, and community engagement, ensuring that Dyfed-Powys remains a safer place for all.
Entertainment
‘The Pembrokeshire Murders’ hailed as one of the best true crime dramas
NETFLIX viewers are buzzing with excitement over the addition of The Pembrokeshire Murders, a gripping three-part ITV drama now available on the streaming platform. Described as “one of the best true crime series ever,” the show boasts an impressive Rotten Tomatoes score of 82% and has reignited interest in one of Wales’ most chilling criminal cases.
Based on real events
Adapted from the 2012 book by Detective Superintendent Steve Wilkins, the series chronicles his determined efforts to solve two cold cases—the double murders of siblings Richard and Helen Thomas in 1985 and Peter and Gwenda Dixon in 1989. Luke Evans leads the cast as Wilkins, who re-opened the investigations in 2006, utilizing advancements in forensic science and DNA testing to build an unshakable case.
How a game show helped crack the case
One of the series’ most talked-about moments involves footage from a 1989 episode of Bullseye, a popular game show, where suspect John Cooper’s appearance uncannily matched a police sketch. This discovery became a crucial piece of evidence in connecting Cooper to the crimes.
Crucial evidence and a life sentence
Detectives uncovered a wealth of damning evidence against Cooper, leading to his 2011 conviction for the murders. Key findings included:
- Victim’s blood concealed in the hem of Cooper’s shorts.
- Personal items belonging to the victims in Cooper’s possession.
- Ballistic evidence linking Cooper’s firearm from prior robberies to the murders.
Cooper was also convicted of rape, sexual assault, and attempted robbery during the trial. Diagnosed as a psychopath, he is now serving a life sentence.
Critical acclaim for a chilling drama
Directed by Marc Evans, The Pembrokeshire Murders has been lauded for its gripping storytelling and attention to detail. Alongside Luke Evans, the stellar cast includes Charles Dale (Coronation Street), Owen Teale (Line of Duty), and Steven Meo (Gavin and Stacey).
A dark chapter in Welsh history
The murders sent shockwaves through the quiet Pembrokeshire community. The Thomases were killed execution-style at their Scoveston Manor home, which was then set ablaze in a bid to destroy evidence. Four years later, the Dixons were gunned down during their summer holiday, with their bodies hidden along a coastal path.
Netflix’s re-release of The Pembrokeshire Murders has brought this harrowing true crime story to a global audience, offering a stark reminder of the tireless work of detectives who fought for justice and the devastating toll these murders took on the community.
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