News

Pembrokeshire RNLI pictures preserved in national collection

Published

8 years ago

February 3, 2017

Tom Sinclair

Angle RNLI crew – one of the images acquired by the National Library of Wales (pic. Jack Lowe)

UNIQUE photographs of RNLI crew and lifeboat stations in Pembrokeshire have been acquired by the National Library of Wales.

The images made at Angle, Tenby and St Davids RNLI stations were created by photographer Jack Lowe using Wet Plate Collodion, a Victorian process that captures stunning images on glass.

They form part of The Lifeboat Station Project, Jack’s epic mission to photograph all 237 stations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland — one of the largest photographic projects ever undertaken and currently scheduled to be completed in 2020.

The 20 limited edition prints will now be housed within the National Collection of Welsh Photographs, which comprises over a million photographs connected to Wales. These range from works by pioneering photographers from the earliest days of photography to portfolios by contemporary practitioners of the art.

St Davids RNLI boathouses (pic. Jack Lowe)

Will Troughton, Curator of Photography at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth, says of the acquisition: “Jack’s photographs are important to the National Library in many ways. They are part of a systematic documentary record of Welsh RNLI stations, the first to be offered to the library.

“His use of a Victorian camera and glass plates produces atmospheric, mesmerising and aesthetically pleasing photographs. The use of black and white produces a timeless quality and emphasises the crew members rather than their brightly coloured equipment as well as creating a link to our historical photographs of lifeboat crews.”

Will added: “Having seen Jack at work here in Aberystwyth I’m delighted to add some stunning photos of Welsh RNLI crews to the National Library of Wales where they will sit alongside works by some of the greats of photography.”

Jack, who lives in Newcastle upon Tyne, said: “This is the first time my photographs have been recognised at a national level in this way. I dreamed this might happen one day but I never expected it would happen while in the midst of making the work.

“I’m over-the-moon for the RNLI lifeboat volunteers too. I can’t make these photographs without them, so it’s wonderful to see our brave lifeboat men and women placed on such a high pedestal.”

Jack Lowe: At work at Angle RNLI lifeboat station (pic. John Chennells)

Lewis Creese, Angle RNLI lifeboat Coxswain, said the experience of being part of the Lifeboat Station Project had been an enjoyable one for the station.

He said: “All the crew at Angle loved having Jack down to visit us. The project is such a special thing for the RNLI and the black and white photos he produced of us were fantastic.

“RNLI volunteers aren’t used to having their portraits taken and Jack’s technique made it a very different experience to the normal crew photographs we have taken. But we were amazed to be able to see the images developing on the glass plates there and then in front of our eyes.”

While Jack was in Wales photographing the volunteer crews last year, he also gave a fund-raising talk for the RNLI at the National Library of Wales, describing his photographic method and what inspired him to embark on his five-year odyssey.

The Lifeboat Station Project, which began in January 2015, is one of the biggest photographic projects ever undertaken and, when finished, will be the first complete photographic record of every single lifeboat station on the RNLI network.

Jack travels in Neena — his decommissioned NHS ambulance purchased on eBay and converted into a mobile darkroom. He looks set to reach the half-way point in late 2017 – and 2017 will also include the Project’s first visit to Ireland.

Entertainment

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

Published

20 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

20 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

1 day 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.”