Community

Control of horses act becomes law

Published

11 years ago

February 6, 2014

NFU CYMRU has welcomed the fact that the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 has become law in Wales this week.

The Act will provide all local authorities in Wales with consistent legal powers to seize, impound, sell, re-home, return, dispose of and destroy horses by humane means, when the horses are found causing nuisance by fly grazing, straying or have been abandoned in a local authority area.

NFU Cymru member, William Jenkins, who has himself been affected by fly grazing said:

“The issue of fly grazing, whereby horses and ponies are turned out to graze on private land, such as farmers’ fields, without permission, has risen to some considerable prominence in recent times. Whilst the problem has been particularly serious in south Wales and along the M4 corridor, it is a problem that can occur in any location.

“A survey by the Union last year found that about five per cent of our members in Wales have direct experience of fly-grazing, while a similar number are aware of a neighbour who has been a victim of fly-grazing. The survey also indicated that the problem has worsened over the past few years.

“The costs, damage to grazing and welfare implications for farmers affected by this menace can be considerable with the liability unfairly falling on farmers who are the innocent victims of this illegal activity.”

William Jenkins concluded: “For these reasons, NFU Cymru is pleased that the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 has received Royal Assent (27 January, 2014), and that Wales has led the way in taking genuine steps to combat this menace. The Act provides a further tool in combatting fly grazing, straying and abandonment of horses and ponies and will hopefully work towards establishing a fly grazing free Wales.”

Welcoming the Act, FUW land use and parliamentary committee chairman Gavin Williams said that over recent years the number of fly grazing incidents have increased substantially, particularly in South Wales where large numbers of horses have been dumped on private and public land, resulting in major welfare problems for animals of little value and significant implications for public safety when straying onto public highways on the farming sector as well as the resource implications for local authorities, equine charities and the tax payer.

“Earlier last year the FUW contributed to the Welsh Government consultation which looked at the actions and legislative changes that might be needed to deliver a long term solution to tackle the issue of fly grazing and the abandonment of horses and ponies in Wales and worked with Welsh Government to come up with ideas which have now been incorporated into the new Act,” Mr Williams added.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

13 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

22 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.