Residents feared pollution after muddy water appeared around the Oceania Marina, but officials say sediment was churned up by the ship’s propulsion system.

BROWN discolouration seen in the sea around a cruise ship visiting Fishguard sparked concern among residents this week, after some feared it could indicate pollution in the harbour.

The large cruise vessel Oceania Marina arrived in Fishguard on Monday (Jun 8), bringing more than 1,200 passengers and hundreds of crew to Pembrokeshire as part of this summer’s growing cruise season.

But as the ship remained offshore, locals noticed muddy-looking water surrounding the vessel and took to social media to question whether waste had entered the bay.

The Herald understands concerns were raised with Fishguard Harbour, prompting enquiries with the ship’s operators.

According to an explanation passed to local county councillor Billy Shaw, the discolouration was not pollution but sediment disturbed from the seabed.

Harbour officials were told the ship had been using its propulsion system to hold position in strong winds and currents while tender boats ferried passengers to and from shore.

A statement from the vessel said the “brownish sea” seen around the ship had been caused by propulsion bringing mud to the surface.

The operators also stressed that no waste discharge takes place near land, saying all ship discharges stop before entering UK territorial waters and that the vessel complies with international maritime pollution rules.

The Oceania Marina, operated by Oceania Cruises, was making her first visit to Fishguard. Excursions took passengers to locations including St Davids and Cardigan, while many visitors spent time in Fishguard itself.

The call marks one of around two dozen cruise ship visits expected in Fishguard and Goodwick this season, with further vessels scheduled throughout the summer.

A FUN Day and Dog Show in St Clears has raised more than £5,000 to help vulnerable and abandoned animals.

The event, held in aid of Greenacres Animal Rescue on Sunday, May 10, brought together supporters, local businesses and members of the community to raise vital funds for the charity’s rescue and rehabilitation work.

A total of £2,584.84 was raised on the day, with the amount then matched by the Benefact Group through the support of Lloyd & Whyte Community Broking, bringing the final total to £5,169.68.

The money will help Greenacres meet the growing costs of caring for animals in need, including veterinary treatment, rehabilitation, food and other essential welfare expenses.

Greenacres Animal Rescue provides refuge and care for animals that have been abandoned, neglected or need rehoming. The charity relies heavily on donations, fundraising and volunteer support to continue its work.

A spokesperson for Greenacres Animal Rescue said: “We’re honestly blown away by your generosity and support.”

Among those supporting the event were representatives from Lloyd & Whyte Community Broking, which has backed Greenacres Animal Rescue for several years as its chosen charity partner.

Colleagues Stephen Vale, Yvette Llewellyn and Lauren Davies attended the event, helping to support the fundraising and celebrate the work carried out by the charity.

Stephen Vale, from Lloyd & Whyte Community Broking said: “Greenacres Animal Rescue has been our chosen charity for several years and we’re incredibly proud to support the vital work they do for vulnerable animals in our community.

“The dedication of the Greenacres team is inspiring, and it’s fantastic to see local people come together to help raise funds that will directly support the charity’s ongoing rescue and rehabilitation work.

“As part of the Benefact Group, giving back is central to who we are, so being able to support Greenacres through fundraising and matched funding initiatives is something we’re passionate about.”

The success of the event highlights the strength of community support for Greenacres Animal Rescue and the difference local fundraising can make for animals in need.

For more information, call 01994 231548 or visit lloydwhytecommunity.com.

Packed lunches donated by local businesses as Narberth and Whitland Rotary treats youngsters to memorable trip

CHILDREN from across the area enjoyed a fun-filled day at Folly Farm on Wednesday (June 10), thanks to the efforts of Narberth and Whitland Rotary and the generosity of local businesses.

The annual “Children’s Day Out” saw youngsters treated to a special visit to the popular Pembrokeshire attraction, where they were able to enjoy the animals, rides and activities on offer.

Narberth and Whitland Rotary said the trip was made possible through the support of several local organisations and businesses who helped ensure the children had an enjoyable and well-catered day.

The Rotary club extended special thanks to The Plas in Narberth for providing packed lunches for the children attending the trip.

Additional refreshments were also donated, with Jack Williams supplying a generous selection of fruit and CK’s contributing bottled water.

Rotary organisers said the children had a “great day out” and praised Folly Farm for welcoming the group and helping to make the visit a memorable experience.

A spokesperson for Narberth and Whitland Rotary said: “All of the children had a great day out and special thanks go to Folly Farm for welcoming us all.”

The club regularly organises community activities and events aimed at supporting local families and young people across the Narberth and Whitland area.

Photo caption: Day to remember: Children enjoy a special outing to Folly Farm organised by Narberth and Whitland Rotary (Pic supplied).