COMPLETING a series of courses largely funded by Farming Connect has given a Welsh dairy farmer the knowledge and confidence to launch a business that provides office administrative support to other farm enterprises.

Anna Brown grew up on a dairy farm just four miles from Hill Farm, near Mold, where she now lives with her husband, Tim, and their five-year-old daughter, Sophie, and where they also produce milk.

Anna has worked in the agriculture industry since graduating from Harper Adams where she studied agri-food marketing and business studies.

Her introduction to bookkeeping was several years ago with a course at Coleg Cambria.

In 2022 she decided to build on that foundation, enrolling in a Farming Connect course covering aspects such as Making Tax Digital and keeping VAT records.

This was 80% funded by Farming Connect, as were two other modules she subsequently completed, on understanding new accounts, financial management, cashflow and business planning.

One course was delivered virtually while the other two were in-person at venues in Ruthin and Oswestry.

Anna gained hugely from that learning experience. “I do all my parents’ farm office bookwork and accounts but there is always some doubt with something like that about whether you are doing it the right way,’’ she says.

The Farming Connect courses reassured her that she was, and added to her knowledge base.

Fellow course participants came from many different farming sectors and systems.

“In farming we can become set in our ways but it was nice to see that we were all on the same path,’’ Anna added.

“The courses were delivered by Julie at Simply the Best Training; she was so good at making everyone feel at ease and providing proper scenarios that were applicable to our own type of farming business.’’

Inspired by the knowledge she gained, Anna set up her own business, Brownbrook Farm Office Services, in January 2024, offering support in everything from farm assurance to setting up farm spreadsheets and building up a client base through word of mouth, social media and advertising her services at livestock marts and other venues.

Others just want support in restoring order to their office. “They say “my office is a mess; can you organise it for me’’!’’ says Anna.

She has not taken her responsibilities lightly, even embarking on an emergency first aid course in March 2024, again 80% funded by Farming Connect.

“If I am going onto a farm and there is an emergency situation, I need to know that I have the experience to deal with it, as well making the client aware that I am serious about what I do.’’

Anna’s next goal is to complete a Farming Connect Safe Use of Vets and Meds course.

She is grateful to Farming Connect for the calibre of the courses, and for funding most of their cost.

“We are lucky in farming that we have these subsidised courses, most industries don’t have those opportunities.’’

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL’S ongoing campaign against littering brought a wave of cases to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, earning enforcement officers the local nickname “The Fag Butt Police.”

Multiple individuals were fined after being found guilty of depositing cigarette butts or other litter in public spaces. Magistrates highlighted the significant costs of keeping the county clean and the importance of enforcing the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Some of the defendants have contacted The Herald and questioned the fairness of the costs imposed. With costs often set at £266.66 on top of fines and victim surcharges, the total penalties approached or exceeded £500 in many cases. Observers noted that such high costs might be disproportionate for minor offences like littering, especially in bulk prosecutions designed to be more efficient.

One of those fined, said: “The costs seem high for what should be a streamlined process. Transparency on how these costs are calculated would help reassure the public about fairness.”

Cases heard in court

1. Paul Andrew, 50, of Bramble Lodge, Stepaside, Narberth, was fined £220, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £88, and costs of £266.66 for dropping a rolled-up cigarette in Jones Terrace, Tenby. Total: £574.66.
2. Wayne Balch, 50, of Adelaide Road, Elvington, Dover, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for littering with a cigarette butt at Withybush Retail Park, Haverfordwest. Total: £574.66.
3. Matthew Collins, 46, of Marble Hall Road, Milford Haven, was fined £220, with a victim surcharge of £88 and costs of £266.66 for leaving a cigarette butt outside McDonald’s, Merlin’s Bridge. Total: £574.66.
4. Omid Buergin, 59, of Coolhurst Road, London, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for dropping a rolled-up cigarette in Upper Frog Street, Tenby. Total: £574.66.
5. Simon Green, 45, of Mans Dewi, Capel Dewi, Carmarthen, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for littering in Springfield Retail Park, Haverfordwest. Total: £574.66.
6. Aisha Jephcott, 24, of West Haven Estate, Cosheston, Pembroke Dock, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for dropping a cigarette butt on Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock. Total: £574.66.
7. Edward Washbrook, 52, of Maes Y Mynydd, Newport, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for discarding a cigarette butt outside Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest. Total: £574.66.
8. Jemma Palmer, 41, of Tir Einon, Llanelli, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for dropping a rolled-up cigarette on High Street, Tenby. Total: £574.66.
9. Louisa Braidman, 34, of Fourth Avenue, Walsall, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for leaving a cigarette butt outside Denis Café, Tenby. Total: £574.66.
10. Haray Norcross, 39, of Penybont Road, Pencoed, Bridgend, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for littering with a cigarette butt on Moorland Road, Narberth. Total: £574.66.
11. Maria Mihailiva, 36, of St Davids Place, Goodwick, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for dropping a cigarette butt outside Morrisons, Haverfordwest. Total: £574.66.
12. Michael Raymond, 55, of St James Road, Wick, was fined £40, with £16 victim surcharge and £100 costs for littering in Heywood Lane, Tenby. Total: £156.00.
13. Joshua Spicer, 38, of Castle Terrace, Narberth, was fined £220, with £88 victim surcharge and £266.66 costs for discarding a cigarette butt near Narberth Primary School. Total: £574.66.
14. Andrew Griffiths, 41, of St Margarets Court, Aberdare, was fined £40, with £16 victim surcharge and £130 costs for littering in St George Street, Tenby. Total: £186.00.
15. Stacey Davies, 35, of Felin Ban Estate, Cardigan, was fined £40, with £16 victim surcharge and £100 costs for leaving a cigarette butt outside Haverfordwest Hospital. Total: £156.00.
16. Sam Daines, 32, of Larch Road, Milford Haven, was fined £40, with £16 victim surcharge and £100 costs for littering on Priory Street, Milford Haven. Total: £156.00.

ST CLEARS has undergone remarkable changes through the Ten Towns Programme, delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council and supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). These projects aim to bring vibrancy and economic benefits to the town while preserving its rich heritage.

A town steeped in history

Located just eight miles from Carmarthen, St Clears is deeply rooted in Welsh history, famously linked to the Rebecca Riots of the 1800s. Today, it boasts a thriving community of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an appealing destination for visitors and locals alike. More information on St Clears as a destination can be found on the Discover Carmarthenshire website.

Y Gât: A revitalized hub

As part of the programme, Y Gât, an anchor building in the heart of St Clears, has been transformed to meet the town’s economic and social needs. Following an asset transfer from Carmarthenshire County Council, the town council secured funding to reconfigure the downstairs area, improving accessibility and functionality. The refurbished café space now hosts a new local business, providing a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

The centre is managed by a coordinator tasked with facilitating its services, which include small business workshop units, a library, and meeting spaces for hire.

Enhanced digital communication

Consultations with local stakeholders highlighted the need for improved digital communication. Digital screens have been installed at Y Gât and Pentre Road car park to display local activities, business news, and community updates, enhancing the town’s digital presence.

Supporting local businesses

The Revitalising Rural Town Centre Fund has provided grants to several businesses in St Clears. The funding supported improvements such as refreshed exteriors, new signage, and artistic enhancements. Notably, local artist Steve Jenkins, known as Jenks Art, has created two murals showcasing the town’s historical landmarks, which have been warmly received by the community.

High street enhancements

High street improvements on Pentre Road are nearing completion, featuring inclusive street furniture, refreshed pathways, and riverbank seating. New bus shelters are also set for installation this spring.

Tŷ Croeso: A community hub

Another beneficiary of the UKSPF is Tŷ Croeso at Bethlehem Newydd Chapel in Pwll Trap. The project aims to promote the Welsh language and support social, leisure, and well-being activities for the community. More details on Tŷ Croeso’s activities can be found online.

Art with a purpose

An innovative project is raising awareness of the circular economy through a commissioned sculpture by local artist Lisa Evans. The installation, made from recycled aluminium, involves contributions from local schoolchildren and community groups. A drop-off point for aluminium donations has been set up at Y Gât.

Rural outreach and support

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Hwb Bach y Wlad initiative offers advice and services to rural communities. Residents can meet Hwb advisors at Y Gât on the third Tuesday of every month from 10:30am to 3:00pm for help with council enquiries, waste and recycling supplies, and more.

Business and tourism roadshow

St Clears Leisure Centre will host a Tourism and Business Roadshow on Thursday, January 23. Businesses and community groups can access expert advice on licensing, planning, funding, and marketing opportunities.

A Message from Cllr Carys Jones

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Community Cohesion and Planning Policy, Cllr Carys Jones, praised the programme’s success:
“With thanks to the Ten Towns Programme and funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, St Clears has benefitted from numerous initiatives that enhance life for residents and visitors alike. As a local member, I encourage everyone to explore the town’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.”

St Clears stands as a testament to how well-planned projects can breathe new life into rural towns, ensuring a thriving future while celebrating its historical roots.