News

Operation Phobos: More drug dealers sentenced at Swansea Crown Court

Published

8 years ago

September 27, 2016

Top row, left to right: Allen Herron, Andrew Curphey, Bradley Carroll and Dane Bush. Bottom row, left to right: Donna Kellaway, Emma Roberts, Ian Edwards and Michael Sillitoe.

A JUDGE sentencing cocaine suppliers after the biggest drugs operations ever carried out by Dyfed Powys Police has today handed down prison terms totalling 47 years to go with the 36 years passed yesterday.

The hearings at Swansea Crown Court are still only half way through and will not conclude until Friday.

By then 20 people will have been sentenced after Dyfed Powys Police carried out Operation Phobos, which led to a second operation and then a third as detectives discovered the true extent of the drugs dealing.

A Liverpool gang ran £18.5m worth of cocaine into the south Wales valleys, £67,520 of cocaine into Milford Haven and £286,000 of cocaine and cannabis into Scotland

Today, Dane Bush, aged 29, said to be the head of a crime gang in Milford Haven, was jailed for 11 and a half years. Salter was jailed in June.

Andrew Jones, prosecuting, told the court how Bush “spun off” his own conspiracy to spread the cocaine into Pembrokeshire while the rest of the gang concentrated on Swansea and the south Wales valleys.

Judge Paul Thomas told Bush he had been aware of the misery and death that cocaine inflicted on users but had shown no remorse for supplying Salter to enable him to sell the drug around the county.

Michael Sillitoe, aged 29, of Glebe Road, Loughor, was jailed for 11 years, and Donna Kellaway, 36, of Prescelli Road, Penlan, Swansea, received seven years.

Two others at the Liverpool end of the conspiracy were also jailed—Allen Heron, 38, for 10 years and Bradley Carroll, 31, for seven and a half years.

All had admitted or been found guilty after trials of conspiring to supply cocaine between November, 2014, and November, 2015.

Judge Thomas told them they had gone into the scheme “with your eyes wide open” about the vast amounts of money that might be made but also the consequences of being caught.

“You gambled the money you might make against the time you might serve,” he added.

Judge Thomas said all the criminals were at a “far higher level” than just street dealers.

The first four defendants were yesterday jailed for a total of 36 years.

At least four police officers are expected to be commended on Friday for “very impressive, intelligent, carefully directed work.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

18 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

18 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

1 day ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”