News

Trecwn businessman ‘robbed Peter to pay Paul’

Published

6 years ago

July 11, 2018

A TRECWN businessman who ‘robbed Peter to pay Paul’ but also his wife and aunt has been made the subject of a suspended prison sentence.

Matthew Andrew Creed, aged 50, transferred £166,000 without telling the bank he owed more than £300,000 too.

His main company, Pembrokeshire Estates Ltd., later went under and after Natwest had sold the firm’s properties the bank was still owed £222,400.

Creed, of Ordnance House, was convicted after a trial of four offences under the Insolvency Act.

They were of making transfers of £114,000 to Gwaun Developments and £8,000 to AAA Management Ltd., two of his other companies, £25,000 to Annette Marshall, his aunt, and £19,000 to Nicola Creed, his then wife.

The court heard that Pembrokeshire Estates suffered a fire at one of the firm’s properties. The firm received an insurance payout of £247,786 but Creed paid the money into a new Santander account Natwest were not aware of.

Creed secretly made the offending payments from that account leaving Pembrokeshire Estates in financial difficulties.

His barrister, Paul Hobson, said Creed had not spent the money on high living but in a desperate attempt to keep his businesses afloat.

He had always intended to repay mortgages taken out with Natwest and his dishonesty took place when both his businesses and his marriage were heading for the rocks.

Creed, he said, had been made bankrupt and had signed an agreement not to act as a company director before 2025.

Mr Hobson said Creed now had a job with an internet marketing company and earned £680 a month.

The Judge, Mr Recorder Peter Griffiths, told Creed he had robbed Peter to pay Paul and if he suspected he had spent creditors’ money because of personal greed he would be going to jail.

He told Creed, who arrived in court with a bag ready for jail, he had driven a coach and horses through the Insolvency Act but he accepted he had found himself in a desperate situation.

Creed was jailed for 12 months, suspended for two years, and ordered to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work for the community.

He was also ordered to contribute £1,000 at the rate of £100 a month to the costs of his prosecution.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

20 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

20 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

1 day ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”