Community

Morwenna is a ‘massive addition’ to the community

Published

8 years ago

February 27, 2017

[L to R]: Barry John MBE with Morwenna Pitkin of The VC Gallery

THE HERALD spoke to Morwenna Pitkin on Wednesday (Feb 15), who is part of the most recent addition at The VC Gallery.

Morwenna is a holistic therapist who is also qualified in bowen therapy, and has been offering treatments to those attending the VC Gallery on a weekly basis.

Speaking to The Herald, she said: “I first started training in 2013, and started training soldiers off my own back. I went to Barry in 2014 and went to an armed forces open day. I began reading people and their body positions when they were standing, and I approached them to ask if they wanted a free therapy session.

“I could see things in them that only their doctors knew, and I had to help.

“I ended up having two sergeants and another third soldier, and I treated them there and then.”

Morwenna says that she wanted to “give something back,” and feels that soldiers don’t get the help that they sometimes need, so took it upon herself to do something about it.

Originally from Aberporth, Morwenna came to Pembrokeshire after joining Healing Hands, and went on a Fab Camp where she helped families that were suffering familial military bereavements in Cornwall. She treated 30 children and 20 adults.

Founder of the VC Gallery, Barry John MBE, went to Porthcawl and spoke to somebody about hiring a person to deliver therapies to the people who attended the Gallery. Morwenna said: “Barry was looking for someone to do it and asked me. It’s only 45 minutes away, so I did it!”

When asked how important she thinks the therapies are, she said: “I think it’s very important. The therapies allow people to have their own space and talk about anything they want to. It’s something that allows people to offload their problems and walk about feeling better about themselves.

Holistic therapy: Morwenna conducts her therapy in a relaxing environment

“Since being at The VC Gallery, I’ve built up trust and connections with people, who are now regulars every week.”

Speaking about Morwenna, Barry John MBE said: “What she was brought to the Gallery is a diverse term of one to one engagement. We cover art and welfare, but she brings a new element to individuals with her holistic treatments.

“She gives people the chance to express themselves in other ways, besides what we give them. Morwenna being a part of the Gallery has been a massive addition to the community.”

He continued: “The beauty to her involvement is that she will engage and help the elderly veterans, physically disabled and also mentally disabled, with a kind and caring nature.”

“I’m very grateful for what she provides, and as The VC Gallery grows, I’m proud that she is a part of it.”

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

11 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

20 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

22 hours 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.