News

Farmer in court over poor condition of sheep

Published

8 years ago

November 28, 2016

Tom Sinclair

One of the sheep: Found in a poor condition

A FLOCK of sheep belonging to a well-known farmer was found to be in such poor condition that one of them – a pregnant ewe – had to be put down, a court has heard.

Hugh Davies of Abernant, Carmarthenshire – who also runs farms in Pembrokeshire – pleaded guilty at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Nov 24) to two Animal Health and Welfare offences.

He also admitted, on behalf of the partnership of AH and NA Davies, two Animal By-product offences.

The court was told that during February and April last year, Animal Health and Welfare officer from Pembrokeshire County Council’s Public Protection team made several visits to various locations in Martletwy – where Davies kept cattle and sheep – to investigate complaints they had received.

On one visit a flock of sheep belonging to Davies were found to be in poor condition and without sufficient feed, particularly as they were approaching lambing.

One ewe was found in such poor condition that, to prevent further suffering, it was euthanised. Another ewe died during the course of the visit and this animal was taken for post mortem.

The examination revealed it to be in a poor condition likely to have been caused by sheep scab infection. It was lame due to foot rot. The ewe was also carrying three full-term lambs.

The veterinary officer supported the case that lack of nutrition was majorly responsible for the animal’s death, particularly as it was supporting three lambs.

On another visit in April to Martletwy farms, Eweton and Martins Hill, officers found a large quantity of sheep carcasses in sheds and fields.

An Animal By-Products Notice was served requiring Davies to collect and dispose of all the carcasses. When officers returned to the farm, they found he had collected some but more than 10 carcasses were still present, thus ensuring failure to comply with the Notice.

In mitigation Davies said that at the time of the offences his mother was ill and the shepherd, to whom he had entrusted the care of the flock, had failed to perform his duties properly.

The Magistrates imposed a conditional discharge for 12 months for one Animal Welfare offence and one Animal By-Product offence with no separate penalty for the other two offences.

In sentencing Davies, the Bench said they could have imposed a fine but had taken into account his guilty plea and were not going to disqualify him from keeping animals.

Davies was also ordered to pay costs totally £3,525.04 plus a victim surcharge of £15. An offer to pay at the rate of £100 per month was accepted.

Crime

Psychiatric assessment discussed in Carmarthenshire murder trial

Published

7 mins ago

January 28, 2025

Court Reporter

THE CARMARTHENSHIRE murder trial resumed on Monday, January 27, at Swansea Crown Court, with the prosecution outlining the events leading to the arrest of Richard Jones, who is charged with the murder of Sophie Evans.

Tracy Thompson made a 999 call on Friday, July 5, 2024, prompting emergency services to attend Ms. Evans’ home. That evening, at approximately 8:00 pm, Jones was arrested on suspicion of murder. Claiming to have taken an overdose of his medication, he was admitted to Glangwili Hospital for four days before being discharged into police custody.

Jones was interviewed nine times over two days at Llanelli Police Station before being formally charged with murder on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

The court heard that between November 29, 2023, and July 4, 2024, Jones and Ms. Evans exchanged 1,479 text messages described as “pleasant and of a friendly nature.” These included arrangements for Jones to visit Ms. Evans’ home to fix her drains. Prosecutors said there was no evidence in the communication suggesting Jones believed Ms. Evans had deceived him.

CCTV evidence

CCTV footage showed Jones arriving at Ms. Evans’ home at 9:21 am on Thursday, July 4, 2024. Four minutes later, Ms. Evans made three unanswered calls to her father. By 10:05 am, Jones was seen leaving the property. He claimed he returned shortly after, having forgotten his keys, and found Ms. Evans lying face down on the floor. Despite this, he did not call for help.

Ms. Evans’ body was later discovered with extensive injuries, including severe bruising, puncture wounds, and fractured vertebrae. Police also found a towel tied in what they described as a “hammock” or “sling” arrangement in the kitchen, partially supporting her body. Jones denied placing Ms. Evans in this position, repeatedly telling officers: “I can’t remember.”

When questioned about the injuries, Jones claimed he could not recall how they occurred. When asked by his ex-partner, Tracy Thompson, if he had killed Ms. Evans, he reportedly replied: “I must have. I don’t remember.”

Psychiatric evaluation

Consultant psychiatrist Dr. Dilum Jayawickrama assessed Jones six weeks after Ms. Evans’ death. The court heard that Jones had a history of mental health struggles, including drug-induced psychosis and Type 1 diabetes. He admitted past drug use, including LSD, cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy, but denied recent alcohol problems.

Dr. Jayawickrama told the court there was no evidence of active psychosis at the time of the assessment and that Jones was fit to enter a plea.

Connections to crime

Further details revealed links between Ms. Evans and criminal activity. Jamie Davies, Jones’ son, is serving an eight-year prison sentence for conspiring to supply Class A drugs. Both Davies and Ms. Evans had previously been under investigation for fraud and money laundering.

However, prosecutors maintained that these factors were secondary to determining the events that led to Ms. Evans’ death.

Prosecution’s case

The prosecution highlighted inconsistencies in Jones’ account and his inability to explain Ms. Evans’ injuries. They argued that his repeated claims of memory loss did not align with the physical evidence.

The trial continues, with another medical expert expected to give evidence later this week.

Health

RCN demands urgent action and transparency on corridor care in Wales

Published

19 mins ago

January 28, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE RCN today issued a strong call to action to the Welsh government, urging them to take decisive steps to eradicate corridor care – a practice that is unsafe, undignified, and unsustainable. The most vulnerable in society, including many older people, bear the brunt of corridor care –where patients are treated in hallways and other inappropriate settings due to bed shortages.

Corridor care compromises patient safety and dignity by delaying timely treatment, reducing privacy, and increasing anxiety and stress. For the nursing workforce, it worsens workloads, contributes to burnout, and undermines their ability to provide quality care.

In open letters to the Welsh Government, NHS Wales, key watchdogs and advocates, the RCN has called for action on eight steps to end corridor care in Wales. The RCN’s eight recommendations include protecting patient safety and supporting the nursing profession by declaring care in chairs for over 24 hours a “never event” and fostering a culture where nursing staff can raise safety concerns without fear. Key steps include increase weekend staffing that can enable timely discharges, restoring District Nurse numbers to 2010 levels, and investing in social care to ensure patients can transition from hospitals to appropriate care settings promptly.

Additionally, the Government must pause hospital bed reductions and review capacity to ensure adequate care in both community and hospital settings. Investing in the nursing workforce and fully implementing the Six Goals for Urgent and Emergency Care programme is critical. NHS Wales must be empowered to divert patients to neighbouring services when necessary, easing pressure on overstretched facilities and improving outcomes.

Helen Whyley, Executive Director of RCN Wales, said: “Nurses are facing immense challenges in maintaining high standards of patient care amidst the growing prevalence of corridor and chair care in hospitals. The RCN’s recent report starkly highlights the stories of nurses who are striving to provide quality care in these difficult conditions. Despite the lack of proper facilities and the strain of overcrowded hospitals, nurses continue to demonstrate remarkable dedication and resilience. They often work long hours under intense pressure, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care even when resources are stretched thin.”

“Our recommendations provide a clear and achievable roadmap to ensure patients receive care in the right place, at the right time, and by the right professional. The nursing workforce is ready to lead the way – but we need the Welsh government to act now.”

The RCN is calling on the Welsh Government to engage all health care stakeholders, listen to the expertise of the nursing workforce, and prioritise patient safety above all else. The time to end corridor care is now.

Entertainment

Experience the magic of the Narberth A Cappella Festival 2025

Published

26 mins ago

January 28, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPAN ARTS is delighted to announce the much-anticipated return of the Narberth A Cappella Festival, taking place on 7th and 8th March 2025. Set in the charming town of Narberth, Pembrokeshire, this iconic event celebrates the power and beauty of the human voice. With a rich legacy spanning over 25 years, the festival offers a unique, immersive experience brimming with music, creativity, and connection.

A celebration of community voices

Recognized as Wales’s premier a cappella festival, the event attracts participants from across the UK. This year’s theme celebrates the power of community voices with a vibrant programme of workshops, performances, and the cherished Singing Feast—an event that blends the joy of shared singing with a communal meal.

The festival opens on Friday evening with the Singing Feast at the Scout Hut in Narberth. This magical gathering sets the tone for the weekend, combining delicious food with uplifting harmony in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

On Saturday, participants can enjoy a range of inspiring workshops at Bethesda Baptist Church, led by some of the UK’s most talented vocal practitioners. These workshops cater to all skill levels, offering opportunities to develop new techniques, explore diverse traditions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The day culminates with the grand finale concert at St. Andrew’s Church, showcasing an eclectic mix of local and UK-wide a cappella choirs.

Meet the workshop facilitators

The 2025 Narberth A Cappella Festival features a stellar line-up of facilitators:

Stacey Blythe: Multi-instrumentalist, composer, and regular collaborator with the Welsh National Opera, Stacey brings a wealth of experience and creativity.
Yasmine Latkowski: A composer blending Arabic, English, and Welsh influences, Yasmine is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of musicians.
Phoebe Martha: With over 15 years of experience, Phoebe specializes in improvisation and collaboration, sharing her passion for community music.
Jay Okwulehie: Known for his work connecting African and Welsh traditions, Jay uses music to build unity and foster cultural exchange.
Helen Yeomans: Founder of Glorious Chorus and an award-winning composer, Helen is celebrated for her inspiring workshops and innovative arrangements.
Jamie Dawes-Hughes: A dynamic choir leader and singer touring with The Spooky Men’s Chorale, Jamie brings energy and expertise to every session.

Immerse yourself in the festival

The Narberth A Cappella Festival offers an unforgettable weekend of harmony, creativity, and inspiration. Whether you’re an experienced singer or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone—from the intimate joy of the Singing Feast to the dynamic energy of the workshops and the uplifting finale concert.