News

Celebrity chef to race Ironman

Published

11 years ago

March 10, 2014

BRITISH CHEF Gordon Ramsay will be taking part in this year’s Ironman Wales, on Sunday September 14, 2014.

Ramsay’s confirmation to race in Tenby follows the success of his first Ironman experience at the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii in October last year.

There he proved that he is not only a force to be reckoned with in the kitchen, but also physically and mentally as an IRONMAN athlete finishing in an impressive 14:04:48 for the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile marathon, despite the soaring temperatures and windy conditions that Hawaii is notorious for.

That experience will put Gordon in good stead for the event in Wales, as it is reputedly one of the toughest on the European circuit. Staged in the heart of Tenby, the surrounding countryside not only provides a spectacular setting for this ultimate challenge, but its phenomenal atmosphere rivals any other Ironman event.

Whilst the course may push the boundaries for the athletes with its 1,750m of climbing combined with unpredictable Welsh conditions, the support of the crowds and electric atmosphere is what the event has become renowned for.

On commenting why he had chosen Ironman Wales as his next challenge, Ramsay said, “When I was growing up in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Tenby was a destination for our family holidays which I have never forgotten. I have happy memories of the beautiful beaches and amazing scenic backdrop and am looking forward to now racing there for the first time at Ironman Wales.”

Ramsay will be up against 2,150 athletes taking part in the event, with 322 in his male 45-49 category. Last year the top athlete in this age group finished in a time of 10:16:03.Kevin Stewart, Managing Director for Ironman UK and Ireland commented: “We are delighted that Gordon has chosen Wales for his return to Ironman racing. We know the athletes love the demanding course, in part because the public turns out in huge numbers to support all the athletes. We look forward to welcoming Gordon and all our athletes to Pembrokeshire in September.”

Charity

Letterston dog show raises over £750 for local charities

Published

3 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SUNDAY (Dec 22), Letterston Ring Craft successfully raised £755.55 for two Pembrokeshire-based charities during a fun dog show event. The funds were equally split between South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue and Letterston Memorial Hall.

The event featured a variety of well-attended classes, including child handling and fancy dress, drawing participation from dog enthusiasts of all levels.

This fundraiser marked the first charitable event supporting South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue. Founded and managed by Lizzy Austwick, the rescue organisation aids unwanted, feral, and sick cats across Pembrokeshire and responds to urgent cases in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. The rescue provides neutering support for stray and feral cats, directs owners to available resources, and specialises in helping stray cats with severe injuries, raising essential funds for their care.

For assistance, Lizzy can be contacted via the rescue’s Facebook page or at 07575 131443.

Letterston Ring Craft welcomes new members interested in training and showing their dogs, from local companion shows to prestigious events like Crufts. The club meets every other Sunday in Letterston, and further details can be found on their Facebook page.

Looking ahead, the next fun dog show is scheduled for early next year and will support Belle’s Story Charity. For more information or to get involved, contact Gentle Lowe at 07956 653401.

Charity

£3,800 donated to services across Withybush Hospital

Published

5 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE CAMROSE VINTAGE WORKING DAY team has donated £3,800 to services across Withybush Hospital.

Their 37^th annual event raised a record breaking £25,000, which has now been distributed among 26 local charities.

They donated the funds to the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit and Heads Up! Hair Loss Initiative at Withybush Hospital. Each service received £950.

The Heads Up! initiative provides a person-centred, holistic hair loss service for cancer patients. It brings together healthcare and haircare professionals from local communities to give patients the knowledge and products needed to manage their hair loss with dignity and choice.

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “Thank you to Andrew, the team and the supporters of the Camrose Vintage Working Day for your generosity once again. Your donation to each service is amazing and will make a big difference. We are hugely grateful for your wonderful support.

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

Pictured above: Andrew James, Chairman of Camrose Vintage Working Day with Withybush Hospital staff from the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit, Heads Up! Hair Loss initiative.

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

5 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.

A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.