Community

Theme park celebrates ‘Dad of the year’

Published

11 years ago

March 28, 2014

A fundraising father who took part in a gruelling challenge has been awarded ‘Dad of the Year’ at the Radio Pembrokeshire Local Hero Awards 2014 earlier this month.

The award, which is sponsored by Oakwood Theme Park, was handed over to Pembroke dad Jeff Davies by the Park’s director Dominic Jones. Jeff was nominated by his daughter Charlotte Hawkes after raising more than £5,000 for the chemotherapy unit at Withybush Hospital.

After losing both his father and his father-in-law to lung cancer, Jeff set himself the challenge of walking and cycling the 177-mile length of Offa’s dyke in seven days.

He actually managed to complete the challenge in six days and, along with a charity disco, raised over £5,000 for the unit.

“My dad is always thinking of other people and it is very rare that you will find him not doing something for others,” said Charlotte.

“Over the years he has also taken part in numerous events for local charities and organised a golf day for years in aid of arthritis charities.

“When I found out I was pregnant earlier this year and had to move to a bigger house, my dad worked every hour under the sun to get my house ready not to mention the financial help he gave me at the same time,” she added.

This is the second year Oakwood Theme Park has sponsored the award and Park Director Dominic Jones believes it’s important to support and showcase the extraordinary efforts of the community’s unsung heroes.

“It was a pleasure to be able to award Jeff with his prize and hear about his, and all the other finalists’, amazing contributions,” said Dominic.

“The awards ceremony is always a mix of happiness and sadness as you hear first hand about the enormous difficulties and challenges that people have to face and overcome.

“However it’s also an incredibly uplifting and inspiring evening and it’s a tremendous way to remind us all there are so many good people out there doing great things for others,” he added.

Oakwood Theme Park re-opens to the public on April 11th.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

14 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

23 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

1 day 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.