News

Four charged over swan shootings

Published

8 years ago

February 15, 2017

Tom Sinclair

Swans: The family in Withybush Woods (pic. The Herald)

FOLLOWING the shooting of three swans in Haverfordwest in October 2016, four people have now been charged it was revealed today (Feb 15).

The four people have been charged with four offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Firearms Act 1964.

Those charged include three man, aged 32, 23 and 19, as well as a 13-year-old.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police have charged four people following an investigation in to the shooting of three swans at Withybush Woods, Haverfordwest.

“On October 22 2016 Dyfed Powys Police received reports that two swans, who were nesting near the pond in the woods, had been shot dead, and a third swan, a baby, had also been injured. The young swan was put to sleep as a result of its injuries.

“As a result of police investigations four people (three men, aged 23, 32 and 19, and a 13-year-old) have been charged with four offences under the Firearms Act 1968 and four offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. All four are due to appear in court at a later date.”

The family of swans had lived at the woods for over two years.

The women who found the swans said that ducks who also lived in the woods were no longer there as a result of the shooting.

Iolo Williams, the Welsh nature TV presenter, condemned the shooting saying: “Swans, particularly urban swans, bring so much joy to so many people. It’s tragic that someone has attacked and killed the Haverfordwest swans and I would urge anyone with information to come forward.

“This is an act of mindless thuggery that has robbed the town of some of its most lovable characters”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

17 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.