News
£50,000 worth of cocaine seized
A PEMBROKESHIRE man is one of six who have been remanded in custody facing charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine, which is believed to have a street value of £50,000.
Thomas Charles Salmon, aged 31, of Llanmill, Narberth appeared at Llanelli Magistrates Court on Monday. No pleas were entered when the six defendants appeared at court, they appeared only to confirm their names and addresses.
Each face the charge that between April 1, 2012 and March 21, 2014, in Carmarthenshire, they conspired together to supply a quantity of cocaine, a class A drug. Prosecutor Vaughan Pritchard-Jones told Llanelli magistrates that “the police had intercepted a vehicle allegedly carrying a kilogramme of cocaine, with a street value of £50,000.”
The six defendants from the Carmarthenshire area were David James Lloyd Evans, aged 41, of Crud y Wawr, St Clears; Jenkin Anthony Davies, age 54, of Elfed, Carmarthen, and Greg Ian McKenzie, aged 28, of Awelon, Blaenwauun, Whitland.
From the Merseyside area were David Campbell, aged 57, and Richard Andrew Houghton, aged 30. All six were remanded in custody until Friday, April 4, when they will appear for a preliminary hearing at Swansea Crown Court.
A Dyfed-Powys spokesman said: “A police team had been conducting an investigation into the trafficking of substantial quantities of Class A drugs, namely cocaine, into the Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and the South Wales areas. A total of one kilo of cocaine has been recovered in the police operation.”
Detective Inspector Huw Davies told The Herald: “This is a significant amount of drugs that has been recovered. Tackling class A drugs is a priority for the police and those who bring such drugs into the force area will be relentlessly targeted.”
Business
Fresh flavours at new eatery in St Davids
A NEW brunch spot has opened its doors in St Davids, promising a delicious twist on classic dishes in a welcoming and vibrant setting.
The Brunch House, a passion project by hospitality duo Hannah Bowie and Adam Sawyer, opened at Oriel Y Parc Visitor Centre on Saturday (Nov 16), drawing over 250 visitors on its first day.
With more than two decades of combined industry experience, Hannah and Adam have transformed the space through extensive renovations, creating an inviting environment for locals and visitors alike.
Hannah, who previously ran 35 Main Street in Solva, shared her excitement: “Brunch is my favourite meal of the day, and bringing The Brunch House to life has been a dream come true. We’re thrilled to offer something fresh and unique to St Davids.”
The menu features an inspired blend of Middle Eastern flavours from Hannah’s heritage alongside brunch staples like the Full Welsh and Pancake Stack. Standout dishes, such as chicken and waffles drizzled with house-made hot maple sauce, have already earned rave reviews.
Ben Richardson, one of the first customers, said: “The chicken and waffles were absolutely delicious. We’re already planning our next visit.”
The eatery’s warm atmosphere and quality cuisine have struck a chord with the community. Bethany Ellison, a local customer, remarked: “What Hannah and Adam have created here is phenomenal. The ambience, combined with the exceptional food, makes this place truly special. I wish them every success.”
Adam added: “We’ve worked hard to make The Brunch House our own, and the support from locals and holidaymakers has been incredible. It’s been amazing to see so many people walk through our doors already.”
The Brunch House is open daily from 9:30am to 4:00pm, with food served until 3:00pm.
Pictured above – Brunch with a twist: The Brunch House in St Davids run by Adam Sawyer and Hannah Bowie is the newest spot to enjoy freshly made dishes
Community
Kick off the festive season in style at the Riverside Winter Fair
GET ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as Haverfordwest hosts its inaugural Riverside Winter Fair on Saturday, November 30th.
This free, family-friendly event promises a day of festive cheer with food, arts, crafts, games, music, and a big dose of community spirit.
The festivities will kick off at 11am with the opening of Haverhub’s Winter Market. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls 11am to 5pm, offering unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food.
Alongside the market, Haverfordwest’s Business Circle are hosting a “Taste of Pembrokeshire” food and drink market on Castle Square 11am to 5pm, offering a delicious selection of local produce.
For families with younger children, Fair Play will be hosting a Board Game Sketch Fest at the Edge Youth Centre / Picton Centre from 11am to 5pm. This event will feature a variety of games, activities, and art projects, providing a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.
At 12noon children from Haverfordwest’s primary schools will be showing off banners they’ve been making as part of a community arts project, telling the story of the history of their school’s ward area.
They will take part in a vibrant parade led by the South Wales Police Band, marching through the town centre from Swan Square to the Old Quay. Join us at 11:45am on Swan Square to join the parade!
Once the parade reaches the Old Quay, the real fun begins. The main stage will host a variety of performances throughout the day from 12-5pm and Bristol Trader will be hosting an outdoor BBQ and bar for revellers.
Entertainment on the main stage will include a brand-new cantata performed by Fenton School’s children’s choir, the Cantabile Singers of Pembrokeshire, the County Orchestra and the South Wales Police Brass Band.
This captivating performance will tell the story of Haverfordwest’s rich history, drawing inspiration from recent archaeological discoveries.
Following the cantata, local band Sorted will take to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance of Ska and Two-Tone classics. Their energetic and breakneck live sets are guaranteed to get you up on your feet and skanking.
And for the grand finale Pure West Radio Riverside Shopping Haverfordwest will be hosting its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event. The celebrations begin at 12noon, leading up to the grand moment when the town’s Christmas lights illuminate at 6pm. As the town illuminates with festive lights, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky.
For those seeking thrills, there will be fairground rides to enjoy. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the excitement of the various rides.
To add to the magic, Santa Claus will be making a special appearance, along with Sparkle the Elf and Friends a Giant Snow Globe and Bouncy Castle!
Artists Neil Musson and Jono Retallick will also be launching their model hot air balloon, a floating gallery and homage to the people of Haverfordwest. Find them floating through the town throughout the day.
The Riverside Winter Fair is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Local businesses and volunteers coming together to create a memorable experience for everyone.
Visit the website and sign up to the mailing list for full information delivered to your inbox ahead of the big day: www.riversidewinterfair.co.uk
Programme of events
11am-5pm Winter Market @ Haverhub
11am-5pm Taste of Pembrokeshire food and drink market @ Castle Square
11am-5pm Board Game Sketch Fest @ Picton Centre
11:45am Banner Parade assembles with South Wales Police Brass Band @ Swan Square
12noon Children’s Banner Parade from Swan Square to Old Quay
12:10pm Entertainment on Main Stage @ Old Quay
12-5pm BBQ and outdoor bar @ The Bristol Trader
12-6pm Family fun & Entertainment, Pure West Radio @ Riverside shopping Centre
6pm Switch on of the lights and fireworks display.
Charity
Pembrokeshire charities shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards
THREE Pembrokeshire organisations have been shortlisted for this year’s Welsh Charity Awards, set to take place on Monday (Nov 25) at the National Museum Cardiff.
The event, which coincides with the start of Welsh Charities Week, celebrates the contributions of charities, community groups, and volunteers across Wales. Representing the county are Milford Haven’s Megan’s Starr Foundation and Milford Youth Matters, alongside Narberth-based SPAN Arts.
The awards, organised by WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action), are the only event dedicated to honouring the voluntary sector in Wales. A record 239 nominations were received this year.
Megan’s Starr Foundation
MEGAN’S STARR FOUNDATION, founded by Nicola Harteveld, is nominated in the Health and Wellbeing category, sponsored by Leaderful Action. The charity supports young people in Pembrokeshire facing mental health challenges, providing free counselling, peer support, and skill-building programmes.
The team said: “This nomination celebrates the heart and soul of our work. Every young person, volunteer, and family member who finds hope and belonging at Megan’s Starr is part of this incredible journey.
“Winning would inspire us to dream bigger, support more, and build a stronger, compassionate future together.”
Harteveld was Volunteer of the Year at last year’s awards.
Milford Youth Matters
MILFORD YOUTH MATTERS has been shortlisted for Fundraiser of the Year, co-sponsored by Thomas Carroll and Zurich Municipal. A fundraising team of seven young individuals, aged 15, has raised £10,000 annually through events such as a charity golf day, reshaping perceptions of young people in Milford Haven.
A spokesperson said: “This nomination recognises the dedication and hard work of our team, who have raised vital funds while developing skills and confidence to reach their full potential. We are extremely proud of their commitment.”
SPAN Arts
SPAN ARTS, based in Narberth, is a finalist in the Welsh Language category, sponsored by Mentrau Iaith. The organisation delivers bilingual arts programmes that celebrate community identity, inclusivity, and accessibility.
Director Bethan Touhig-Gamble said: “SPAN is based in an incredible bilingual county, where the Welsh language is part of the shared culture and identity. To have the work of our volunteers, trustees, staff, and creatives recognised is truly rewarding.”
WCVA Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “We’re delighted to have had a record number of nominations this year – 239 in total. That’s testimony to the quality work undertaken by volunteers, community groups, and charities across Wales. I couldn’t be more excited to meet the finalists on Monday and find out who’s scooped the top awards.”
The Welsh Charity Awards highlight the difference made by charities and volunteers across the country. For a full list of finalists, visit the Welsh Charity Awards website.
(Cover image: Milford Youth Matters receive a cheque from Tesco)
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P Evans
April 2, 2014 at 8:53 pm
Did you deliberately look for the worst photo you could find of him on facebook ?
Ariadne
April 3, 2014 at 1:16 am
You’ve got his age wrong too.
Kelly
April 4, 2014 at 10:44 am
You could have chosen one of the many many pictures where he hasn\’t got a can in his hand….
P Evans
April 4, 2014 at 1:17 pm
Yes, it’s just typical of the press, always trying to show people in the worst possible light.
P Evans
April 4, 2014 at 11:49 pm
Quote: A Dyfed-Powys spokesman said: A police team had been conducting an investigation into the trafficking of substantial quantities of Class A drugs, namely cocaine, into the Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and the South Wales areas. A total of one kilo of cocaine has been recovered in the police operation.
Detective Inspector Huw Davies told The Herald: This is a significant amount of drugs that has been recovered. Tackling class A drugs is a priority for the police and those who bring such drugs into the force area will be relentlessly targeted. Unquote.
Does anyone else think it an odd coincidence that a member of the Dyfed-Powys police, a certain Detective Sergeant Gareth Vaughan Bassett OF Llanelli was arrested just a couple of days before this incident for possession of cocaine and also appeared in Swansea Crown Court on April the 4th ? I notice that HE was granted bail on both occasions and as yet has not spent any time in prison. How nice for HIM !
David
April 5, 2014 at 1:17 am
I agree, that is an odd coincidence. In my opinion 90% of cops are corrupt as hell anyway.
David
April 5, 2014 at 3:46 pm
Well they may not all be corrupt, but in my experience they are definitely useless. When my former home was burgled some years ago they did NOTHING. Everyone knew who did it, the Police were even given evidence – a list in his own handwriting of places where he might have sold the stolen items, and if they’d followed it up they might have been able to recover some of our belongings. But they didn’t even visit the addresses on the list and because he had conveniently managed to get himself temporarily sectioned, the culprit was never even questioned, let alone charged. I had very little respect for the Police before that, and since then I have none at all.
P Evans
April 5, 2014 at 3:48 pm
This website is bonkers, I posted that last message above, so how the H*** has it got somebody else’s name on it ??????
Phillip Ashley
April 11, 2014 at 1:00 pm
I think it\’s wrong that they should be allowed to publish any photo at all until a person has been tried and convicted. People will remember seeing them in the papers and even if they are later found innocent, mud sticks.
P Evans
April 15, 2014 at 12:57 pm
>:(
Sherry Lawson
June 10, 2014 at 4:05 am
I totally agree.