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Ael y Bryn scoops ‘Oscar’

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(L-R): Adam Raphae, Joint Editor of the Good Hotel Guide; Robert Smith, Ael y Bryn; Estella Saw, Joint Editor of the Good Hotel Guide; Caroline Raphael and Arwel Hughes, Owner of Ael y Bryn

(L-R): Adam Raphae, Joint Editor of the Good Hotel Guide; Robert Smith, Ael y Bryn; Estella Saw, Joint Editor of the Good Hotel Guide; Caroline Raphael and Arwel Hughes, Owner of Ael y Bryn

THE GOOD HOTEL GUIDE BRITAIN AND IRELAND 2017 has announced this year’s César awards, a wholly independent guide to the UK’s best hotels.

This year’s Guide features 414 main entries, 16 Editor’s Choice categories (with an additional four Editor’s Choice categories online), plus 411 hotels in the Shortlist section.

Hotels are chosen solely on merit and the entries are rewritten each year. Readers’ reports are painstakingly scrutinised, and reports from inspectors are based on anonymous visits, the cost of which are covered by the Guide, so reviews are never swayed by special treatment.

Each year, 10 César awards are presented to the Guide’s most celebrated hoteliers who have demonstrated excellence in their field. Named after César Ritz, these are known as the Oscars of the hotel industry. Ael y Bryn in Eglwyswrw, Pembrokeshire managed to bag the ‘Welsh Guest House of the Year’ award.

Arwel Hughes, owner of Ael y Bryn, said: “We are honoured and delighted to receive the prestigious César 2017 award from the Good Hotel Guide for Welsh Guest House of the Year. The César awards are considered the Oscars of hotel-keeping.”

This year, Pembrokeshire successfully won six awards in the Guide’s Editor’s Choice section, which highlights the top 10 hotels in 16 designated categories – Discoveries, Value, Family-friendly, Seaside, Country House, Boutique, Gourmet, Gastropubs, Dog-friendly, Walking, Weddings, Gardens, Spas, Romantic, Bed & Breakfast and Rooms with a View.

Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant in Tenby won an award in the Discoveries category, along with Llys Meddug, Newport, securing the Gourmet award. The Grove in Narberth accepted an award in the Gardens category, with Manor Town House in Fishguard receiving an award in the B&B category. Last, but most certainly not least, Cnapan in Newport won the award for the Value category.

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Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

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ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

  • Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
  • RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
  • Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
  • Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

  • Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
  • ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
  • Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
  • Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
  • Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

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News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

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FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.

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Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

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NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards

Information on Social Bite’s Festival can be found: https://www.social-bite.co.uk/

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