THE SMELL of freshly baked cakes wafted across the RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat Station on Sunday morning as lifeboat crews from Fishguard and Cardigan squared off in their inaugural Bake Off competition.

This week’s challenge? Vegetable cakes. From carrot classics to more adventurous courgette creations, the bakers pulled out all the stops to impress the judges — the HM Coastguard Fishguard team, who eagerly took on the role of official tasters (and coffee drinkers).

“It was a tough job, but someone had to do it,” quipped a coastguard spokesperson, clutching what may or may not have been their third slice of cake. “We’re stuffed!”

Ian Davies honoured for service

Amid the friendly competition, a moment of heartfelt celebration took centre stage. Ian Davies, a longstanding RNLI crew member, was presented with an award marking 20 years of dedicated service. Applause echoed through the station as colleagues and families congratulated Ian on his incredible milestone.

The atmosphere was electric, with the station buzzing not just with lifeboat crews but also with local families and their four-legged friends, who seemed equally delighted by the day’s events..

Weather warning issued

Despite the cheer, the Coastguard issued a reminder to the public to stay safe as extreme weather conditions continue across the region. “It’s all fun and games here at the station, but remember to respect the water and stay vigilant,” they added.

A sweet success

The Bake Off was declared a resounding success, with plenty of laughs, camaraderie, and crumbs to go around. No word yet on which lifeboat team emerged victorious, but one thing’s for sure — this competition is likely to become a station staple.

Here’s to cakes, community, and the incredible heroes of the RNLI. Stay safe out there!

AROUND 40 people gathered outside a residential address in Burton on Sunday to protest against Christopher Phillips, 33, who faces serious charges, including sexual penetration of a seven-week-old baby, assault, ill-treatment, neglect, and abandonment, causing serious physical harm.

The protest followed widespread public outcry on social media after The Pembrokeshire Herald reported on Friday’s court case, during which Phillips was re-granted bail despite the severity of the charges against him. The Pembrokeshire Herald understands that police informed protesters at the scene that Phillips was not at the address during the demonstration.

Phillips’ co-accused, Bryony O’Rourke, is also facing charges, accused of allowing the child to suffer serious physical harm.

Protesters told The Pembrokeshire Herald they attended to show support for the alleged victim and express their anger over individuals facing such serious allegations being granted bail. Observers noted that the group was peaceful and orderly, with no signs of public disorder or misconduct during the protest.

One protester said: “We’re here for the baby. It’s not right that people accused of such horrific crimes are allowed to walk free in the community.”

A COURT has heard harrowing details of a violent domestic assault in Milford Haven that took place on Christmas Day, captured in its entirety on a home “puppy-cam.”

The victim called 999 around 8:00pm after her partner, Kurt Blackband, 51, launched a prolonged and violent attack on her.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard this week that the assault lasted over 11 minutes.

The victim was sitting on the sofa holding a young puppy when Blackband began shouting at her to deposit money into his account.

“Do it now, you f****** selfish c****,” he screamed before throwing a small folding table across the room.

Violent threats and intimidation

As the victim attempted to stand, Blackband was seen clenching his fist, motioning as if to punch her. Crown Prosecutor Nia James described how he escalated the violence by picking up a lamp and smashing it, plunging the room into darkness.

The victim pleaded with him to leave, explaining she had no money, but Blackband punched her twice in the stomach, shouting: “Put the money in my bank.”

He then hurled a large Santa Claus ornament across the room, issuing an ultimatum: “If you want me to leave, put £200 in my bank. You only have one choice.”

Blackband threatened to take the puppy before striking the victim on the leg with a backhand, warning he would give her a “dead leg.”

He also punched her in the arm and pushed her back onto the sofa before grabbing a piece of the Christmas tree, appearing to prepare to throw it at her.

When the victim said she could only afford to give him £50, Blackband told her to pack her bags and leave.

Guilty plea in court

Blackband represented himself in court and was seen wiping away tears as he pleaded guilty to assault by beating.

Magistrates fined him £1,000 and ordered him to pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

He was also sentenced to a 12-month Community Order, which includes ten rehabilitation activity requirement days.

This shocking case highlights the importance of reporting domestic abuse and ensuring justice for victims.

If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, support is available.