News

Sir Thomas Picton School are top quizzers

Published

11 years ago

February 27, 2014

CHILDREN from a Haverfordwest school beat pupils from across the country to win the final of the National Schools Liaison Core Programme Quiz 2014.

The National final took place in the Copthorne Hotel, Cardiff. The four teams competing for the national trophy were the successful regional winners from each of the Welsh force areas.

They were Caldicot Comprehensive School, representing Gwent, Dwryfelin Comprehensive School, representing South Wales, Sir Thomas Picton School, representing Dyfed Powys and Ysgol Y Creuddyn, Penrhyn Bay, representing North Wales.

Each of these teams comprised of five, year eight pupils, who have devoted considerable time and effort in learning information about the three main themes of the Core Programme: Drug and Substance Misuse, Social Behaviour and Community and Personal Safety.

During the quiz, hosted by Kevin Johns, from Swansea Sound Radio, the teams answered questions on, drugs and substances, antisocial behaviour, arson reduction, personal safety, road safety, health issues, ages in law and were also tested on their powers of observation.

Tension mounted as the rounds progressed with all the teams only having a few points between them at the start of the final round. At the end of round six, everyone waited in anticipation for the final score to be announced. Kevin John then confirmed the winning school as Sir Thomas Picton School from Haverfordwest with an overall score of 62.

All the participants received a plaque and certificate presented by Mr Alun Michael, the Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales. As an extra surprise and thank you for all the pupils’ hard work they were presented with an iTunes voucher and the winning school received a HP Laptop with software and case from G4S Group 4 Securicor.

As an extra treat the next day the teams were involved in a visit to Cardiff Gate Fire Service Training Centre and Techniquest, before travelling back to their home areas.

Linda Roberts, All Wales School Liaison Core Programme Co-ordinator said: “The success of this event is based on effective partnership. Therefore, I would like to thank the Fire and Rescue Service for their commitment as without their support, this event would not be possible. I would also like to thank our other partners in this venture who have contributed time and effort to make this evening a success, specifically, Healthy Schools, Road Safety Wales, the Welsh Internet Safety partnership WISP, Crime stoppers, and BRfm Ltd.” Assistant Chief Constable Pam Kelly said: “My congratulations go to Sir Thomas Picton for winning but also to the other teams who took part. Engaging with young people in this way will enable them to discover important information about their personal safety, the dangers of substance misuse and good social responsibility. I am also very grateful to those who have organised and supported the competition.”

The team members of Sir Thomas Picton School, were: Ashwin Gunasekaran, Sophie Layton, Tom Long, Elizabeth Rowland and Euan Mc Sweenay.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

3 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

10 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

25 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards

Information on Social Bite’s Festival can be found: https://www.social-bite.co.uk/