Business

Project paves the way for new job

Published

11 years ago

May 30, 2014

A MILFORD HAVEN man has found a job at the newly opened Haverfordwest office of a South Wales construction company thanks to the support of an EU backed employment project.

Andrew Curtis, aged 39, becomes the 10th member of staff to find employment with Andrew Scott via the South West Workways project. The South West Workways project, is backed by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government. The project is led by Neath Port Talbot Council in collaboration with Bridgend, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Swansea Councils. The project supports people to overcome the barriers which prevent them from finding work. Prior to signing up to Workways, Andrew worked for Cambrian Windows before their sudden closure in Pembroke Dock last year. For the first time in nearly ten years Andrew found himself out of a job. Andrew said “It was quite a shock. It was tough being unemployed. I didn’t have too many qualifications behind me, and my CV wasn’t really as good as it could have been.” With his confidence knocked, Workways supported Andrew to write a new CV, find job vacancies and work on his interview technique. In no time at all, the project helped Andrew get his foot in the door at Andrew Scott construction via the offer of a temporary job. “The CV assistance was invaluable; the Workways team were great and really helped improve my confidence and motivation. As soon as I had had the interview with Andrew Scott, I knew it was something I would be good at.” Andrew added. Such was Andrew’s impact over the course of his contract as an admin assistant, that Andrew Scott were only too happy to keep him on permanently. “It was a great feeling to be offered the permanent position. Having a regular source of income again was a huge lift to me. I can’t thank Workways enough; without them I often wonder if I’d have a job at all.” David Hadley, Financial Director and Company Secretary for Andrew Scott said “Andrew Scott are delighted with the appointment of Andrew Curtis as our Haverfordwest Office Manager via Workways” “He is ideally suited for the role, and we are very impressed with the selection process utilised by the Workways staff that enabled us to make such a good appointment. He is the ideal person for this role” David is hopeful Andrew Scott will recruit many more than the 10 employees who have already joined via Workways. For more information about Workways visit www.workways.co.uk or call 01639 684250.

Business

Haverfordwest opticians shortlisted for honours at Optometry Wales Awards

Published

3 hours ago

November 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A HAVERFORDWEST opticians has been recognised as one of Wales’ leading optical practices after being shortlisted for eight awards at the Optometry Wales Awards 2025.

Specsavers Haverfordwest, which is locally owned and run, is a finalist across categories including Multiple Practice of the Year, Technology Practice of the Year and Collaborative Working. These nominations reflect its commitment to delivering outstanding service, patient experience and innovation.

The store has also been shortlisted for Sustainability Practice of the Year, following its gold award in the Greener Primary Care Wales Framework and Award Scheme last year, which recognised its dedication to reducing its environmental impact.

‘We’re thrilled to be recognised in so many categories this year,’ says Wayne Jones, retail director at Specsavers Haverfordwest.

‘It’s a testament to the hard work of our entire team and the care we deliver every day to people across Pembrokeshire. Being finalists in eight different categories really shows the breadth of our expertise – from clinical leadership to customer service – and we’re very proud of what we’ve achieved together.’

Several of the store’s employees have also been individually shortlisted:

Andy Britton, specialist optometrist and ophthalmic director – Optometrist of the Year
Chris Rosser, optical assistant – Optical Assistant of the Year
Samantha Houghton, contact lens optician – Contact Lens Optician of the Year
Alex O’Brien, dispensing technician – Rising Star

In 2023, director Andy Britton was awarded a medal by Specsavers founders Doug and Mary Perkins in recognition of his clinical excellence.

Mr Britton says: ‘It’s fantastic to be shortlisted for Optometrist of the Year, but what makes me most proud is seeing so many of my colleagues recognised too. This is a reflection of the dedication, innovation and care shown across our whole team.’

The winners will be announced at the Optometry Wales Awards ceremony in Cardiff on 29 November.

Specsavers Haverfordwest is open seven days a week. To find out more information about Specsavers in Haverfordwest, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.

Additionally, to make eye health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.

Business

Festive fun as Milford Haven Christmas market returns to the waterfront

Published

23 hours ago

November 16, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Traders, lights and family entertainment to kick off Pembrokeshire’s Christmas season

THE FESTIVE spirit is coming to life in Milford Haven with markets, lights and family fun as the town gears up for a packed Christmas programme along the waterfront.

Milford Waterfront is preparing for a busy season of events, starting with an indoor Christmas market in the Link Building from November 21 to 23, featuring handcrafted local gifts and festive treats.

Lucy Wonnacott, head of communications and marketing at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Every year the berth holder community, Milford Waterfront businesses and residents all get involved in making the whole place sparkle, so we encourage people to come and see their efforts and enjoy the lights, soak up the festive cheer, and visit the amazing businesses around Milford Waterfront.

“We’re delighted to host so many activities this festive season to support the independent business community here. There will definitely be something for everyone, and new to Milford Waterfront this year, the indoor Ice Rink at Sybil House will be very special – we’re looking forward to seeing everyone getting their skates on.”

The festive programme includes Santa by the Sea on December 6, when Father Christmas will arrive by RNLI lifeboat before heading to Milford Haven Town Hall for the town’s official Christmas lights switch-on.

The event, running from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, will feature live music, entertainment, face-painting and family activities.

Young artists aged three to twelve can take part in print-your-own Christmas card workshops at the Waterfront Gallery on November 22, 29 and 30. The sessions are free but must be booked in advance by calling 07949 763100.

From December 12 to 14, visitors can enjoy an indoor ice-skating experience at Sybil House, next to Phoenix Bowl. The synthetic rink will be open from 12:00pm to 8:00pm and is suitable for all ages.

The festive fun continues with Pure West Radio’s Purely Magical Christmas Grotto in the Link Building on December 7, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21. Tickets must be booked in advance and include a visit with Santa and his elves, professional photography, chocolate gifts and more.

Throughout December, the waterfront will be illuminated by the annual Christmas Lights Competition, organised by Milford Waterfront, Milford Marina and Visit Milford Haven. The contest features decorated shopfronts, balconies and boats, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere across the area.

Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the season by staying overnight at the Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, overlooking the marina, to enjoy the full Christmas experience.

More information about this year’s programme of events is available on the Milford Waterfront website.

Business

Letterston Village Stores on the market after 50 years of family ownership

Published

2 days ago

November 15, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A WELL-KNOWN family-run village shop in North Pembrokeshire has been put up for sale after more than half a century of ownership.

Letterston Village Stores has been instructed for sale through specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, with a freehold asking price of £465,000.

The popular store was built in 1974 and has been run by brother and sister duo Gerwyn Howells and Marilyn Griffiths for the past 20 years. The pair have now decided to retire.

The detached property includes a spacious sales area with scope to expand the business by introducing new product lines, as well as a large three-bedroom apartment above the shop, which could be used as owners’ accommodation or rented out for additional income.

Marilyn Griffiths said: “I have really enjoyed running the store. Our customers are fantastic, and I have made many friends over the years. It was a very hard decision to sell, but the time has come to think about the future and retirement plans. I have instructed Matthew McFarlane from Christie & Co to manage the sale process for me.”

Matthew McFarlane, Business Agent at Christie & Co, added: “We are delighted to have been instructed to sell this business by Marilyn and Gerwyn. It has been in the family for over 50 years and offers an exciting opportunity for either a first-time business owner or a multi-operator.”

The property is available freehold at £465,000.
For more information, visit: www.christie.com/3410544