News

Haverfordwest: New consultation on English-medium secondary education

Published

8 years ago

January 9, 2017

Tom Sinclair

Protests: Pupils voiced their concerns about the new plans (pic. BBC)

THE FUTURE of English-medium secondary education in Haverfordwest will be reviewed as a new consultation opens today (Jan 9).

The consultation proposes to:

Close Sir Thomas Picton School and Tasker Milward VC School on August, 31 2018.
Establish a new 11-19 English medium school in Haverfordwest with effect from September 1, 2018, initially utilising both existing school sites.
Designate Johnston CP School and Neyland CP School as feeder schools to Milford Haven School, and extend the catchment area of Milford Haven School to encompass the catchment areas of Johnston and Neyland.

This consultation will supersede earlier consultations on the matter, so all interested parties are being urged to make their views known. Any previous opinions given to consultations cannot be considered.

The deadline for responses is Thursday, February 28, and there will also be a public meeting on Wednesday, February 1, during which members of the public can find out more about the proposed plans.

This meeting will be held at the County Hall from 6-8pm, in the Committee Rooms on the first floor.

Previously, the council had pushed ahead on numerous occasions with plans to create an 11-16 school despite widespread rejection of the plans.

In May 2016, the council eventually voted against plans to create an 11-16 school and have now come up with plans to create an 11-19 school.

Council Leader Jamie Adams said: “This is a simple opportunity to progress to a general consultation. There appears to have been good discussion, not just with the Trustees and governors of the school may want to confirm but there has been good consultation and discussion with both governing bodies that have proved very positive in terms of the direction of travel.”

Cllr Tessa Hodgson welcomed the progress made but added: “I still have grave concerns about trying to run a secondary school on two sites.”

Cllr Tom Tudor said: “I welcome the recommendation but the concern that has been brought to my attention by the constituents in Haverfordwest is that there is a possibility that we end up having one new school but with part of the school based on the STP site and the sixth form based on the Taskers site, away from the other part of the school.

“This is not what we were campaigning for so I strongly urge that the leader does press on the Welsh Government for guidance on this matter so we can steam this new school, on one site, forward.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

22 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”