News

‘Nothing suspicious’ found in blocked roads case

Published

9 years ago

August 30, 2017

LAST week, The Herald reported that hundreds of concerned locals had been sharing a post on Facebook, which claimed that two men were blocking roads in Pembrokeshire.

Reports of two men in a van blocking cars in the Milford Haven and Haverfordwest areas were been reported to police.

On Wednesday night (Aug 23), Michael Dello Ioio said: “Word of warning to anyone travelling on quiet Pembrokeshire roads after dark… Last night my 13-year-old daughter and I were driving between Waterston and Milford when a white high rise van was blocking the road in front of us.

“Two Eastern European looking men rushed out of the van, leaving their doors wide open, making it impossible to drive around them.

“Fortunately, they spotted a car behind me and on doing so rushed back into the van and sped off.

“I tried to follow them to catch their number plate but they were too fast. It comes to something when it’s best to stick to the main road at night in sleepy Pembrokeshire.”

Shortly afterwards, Alisha McGeown also posted: “Tonight me and a few friends were nearly blocked in Haverfordwest race course by a big transit van.

“As we were leaving they were parked by the entrance and walked out in front of all three of the cars that were leaving.

“Luckily they had all put their foot down and got away, but the van stayed outside and waited for the other two cars that were in there so we phoned the police!

“My friends have the number plate but when the police checked the registration the van came up as white! It’s a dark colour, not quite sure which, but it’s been sprayed but not on the insurance!

“It hasn’t got a number plate or lights and drove off really quick when we turned around to find it! Be careful if you’re in any quiet places on your own or with friends!”

This week, a Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson updated The Herald on their investigation, saying: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of this incident in Waterston on August 23,” said a police spokesman.

“Enquiries are on-going, but officers wish to reassure the public that they have found nothing suspicious or concerning at this time.

“If anyone does witness suspicious behaviour in their community police would encourage them to report it to police immediately on 999 if the behaviour is occurring at the time of the call, or 101 if reporting it at a later time.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.”

Crime

Alleged pay TV fraud case due before Haverfordwest magistrates

Published

2 hours ago

April 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Milford Haven man faces three Fraud Act charges linked to apps, electronic data and adapted Amazon Fire TV sticks

A MILFORD HAVEN man is due to appear before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Apr 21) charged with three offences under the Fraud Act 2006.

Michael David Barrow, 48, of Priory Road, Milford Haven, is listed to appear before magistrates in connection with allegations relating to software and devices said to have enabled unlawful access to pay television content.

According to the court list, it is alleged that between October 19, 2019 and February 22, 2024, at Haverfordwest and elsewhere in Pembrokeshire, Barrow made applications, known as apps, and/or other electronic data which enabled access to pay television content without appropriate payment being made to those entitled to it.

He is further accused of supplying applications, apps and/or other electronic data intended to be used to commit, or assist in the commission of, fraud.

A third charge alleges that he supplied Amazon Fire TV Sticks which, when adapted, enabled access to pay television content without appropriate payment being made to the rights holders, intending them to be used to commit, or assist in the commission of, fraud.

All three charges are brought under Section 7 of the Fraud Act 2006.

Community

Tributes paid to teenager killed in Ceredigion crash

Published

4 hours ago

April 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Family say 19-year-old Lee Barber will be remembered for his kindness, strength and positive attitude

THE FAMILY of a 19-year-old man who died in a road traffic collision in Ceredigion last month have paid tribute to him.

Lee Barber, from Aberaeron, died after the vehicle he was travelling in was involved in a collision on the A482 between Lampeter and Ciliau Aeron on Tuesday, March 24.

In a statement released through Dyfed-Powys Police, his family said: “There are no words that can describe the pain we are feeling as a family. The loss of our son, Lee, has devastated us and has deeply affected the whole community.

“Lee was a loving son who lived life to the fullest. He will be remembered for his kindness, his strength, and his positive attitude. He had a way of bringing people together and made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

“We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the local community and further afield for the overwhelming support we have received. The messages, stories, memories, and photos that have been shared with us mean more than words can say.

“Our boy Lee will live on forever in our hearts and minds. We now kindly ask for privacy as we take time to grieve.”

Police confirmed the collision happened on the A482 between Lampeter and Ciliau Aeron and that Lee died at the scene.

If you want, I can also turn this into a tighter Herald news update version.

Community

Pembrokeshire Chess Club welcomes AI opponent on historic visit

Published

5 hours ago

April 20, 2026

Cerys Lafferty

PEMBROKSHIRE’S thriving chess community witnessed a unique blend of tradition and technology last week, as Pembrokeshire Chess Club hosted a special guest: “Rook to D2” – an AI-powered chess robot from the Welsh Chess Union.

The visit marked the first stop of the robot’s tour across Wales, making it a historic moment for the county. Club members, both young and old, gathered at Kensington Court in Steynton to experience the future of chess firsthand.

Excitement filled the room as the club’s President officially opened proceedings by making the first move against the robotic challenger. From that moment on, it was “game on,” with 15 junior players eagerly taking turns to test their skills. Several adult members also joined in, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

The evening proved especially memorable for the club’s younger players, who relished the chance to play against cutting-edge technology. Their enthusiasm was matched by club officials, including the Chairman and President, who welcomed the opportunity to introduce innovation into the local chess scene.

Club representatives described the atmosphere as “amazing,” highlighting how advancements in technology are enhancing traditional games like chess and inspiring a new generation of players.

Pembrokeshire Chess Club continues to meet weekly at Kensington Court, Steynton. Junior sessions are held every Tuesday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, followed by sessions for more experienced juniors and adults. The club prides itself on being family-friendly and inclusive, catering to all abilities – from casual players seeking a friendly game to those aiming to compete in league and tournament chess.

Following its successful debut in Pembrokeshire, the AI chess robot is expected to visit other clubs across Wales in the coming weeks, bringing the same sense of excitement and innovation to chess communities nationwide.