News
Hook CP School students are #justsaying

AN INNOVATIVE new project designed to give pupils at Hook CP School a strong voice in the future of their community is to be highlighted at a health professionals’ conference at Llanelli this week.
#justsaying aims to find out the pupils’ views on where they live, what wellbeing means to them, and what their ideal community would look like, says Matt Townsend from PLANED, who has been running the scheme.
Praising the school’s ‘vibrant and engaging learning environment’, he said: “The school is incredible. The pupils are so informed and forward-thinking. Their ideas and vision for positive change are inspirational.
“To know that children have this level of awareness is impressive and humbling.”
In fact, he was so impressed with the initial results of the Leader-funded project that he presented a report on its success to the Pembrokeshire PSB (Public Services Board).
In turn, that led to an invitation to speak about it at the Hywel Dda ‘Voice of the Child’ conference on 5th November as an example of best practice.
The project has explored children’s opinions about their community through engaging activities and games. Rhys, Thiesbe, Seren and William in Year 6 said it had been very enjoyable.
“It’s been really good to give our ideas on how we would like to see the village in the future,” said Seren. “One of our ideas is to have more football and rugby and other sport in the village,” added Rhys.
William suggested it would be good to have a campsite which would attract more visitors, and Thiesbe said it had been a good experience to participate in the project and lots of fun.
Matt said the aim is to bridge the gap between the priorities of the Well-being of Future Generations Act (Wales) 2015 and the views of the youngest in the community.
“It’s essential to involve the children and young people of Pembrokeshire in our community work, and to let them know that their views are important,” he said.
Headteacher Louise John said: “All children have been involved in the project and Matt’s work has enabled the sharing of their ideas with the whole community to take place.
“Pupil Voice is very strong at our school and this has been evidenced by the pupils contributions during workshops with Matt. I am extremely proud of the children’s work and appreciative of the opportunities that have been given to Hook School to demonstrate its practices.”
Michael John, the local County Councillor and School Governor, echoed Mr Townsend’s praise of the vibrant environment at the school.
“The children’s input in this project has been fantastic and shows the strong connection they feel for their community. They have had some innovative and mature ideas to enhance its future, and it has been a pleasure listening to them” he said.
Councillor David Lloyd added that it was great to see a clear voice being given to the future generation.
“It was a moving experience to visit Hook School Youth voices do matter and when they are given the opportunity to be listened to as at Hook School, and an increasing number of our schools in Pembrokeshire, the effect is transformational.
“Effectively giving ‘ownership’ of the school to the children builds self-esteem and develops responsibility allowing learning to flourish.
“This was a fine example of how we in Pembrokeshire are growing ethical, informed citizens consistent with the requirements of the new curriculum for Wales. My sincere congratulations to all concerned.”
Community
Residents thanked as Carmarthen gas works completed on time

ESSENTIAL upgrade works to gas pipes in King Street, Carmarthen, have been completed on time and to plan, Wales & West Utilities has confirmed.
The project, which began in early January, was part of the company’s programme to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for homes and businesses in the area—now and for years to come.
The company worked closely with Carmarthenshire County Council to coordinate traffic management throughout the scheme and minimise disruption.
Adam Smith, who managed the project for Wales & West Utilities, thanked local residents and traders for their patience.
He said: “We’d like to thank the local community for bearing with us while we completed this essential work.
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in everyday life—from heating homes and cooking meals to running hot baths. We understand how important it is that the supply is safe, reliable and there when you need it.
“This work will keep gas flowing safely to homes and businesses today, while also helping to prepare the network to carry hydrogen and biomethane in future, supporting the journey to a greener energy system.”
Crime
Tenby man charged after robbery incident

A MAN is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court next month after being charged in connection with a late-night incident in Tenby town centre.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that no one was injured during the disturbance, which took place at a restaurant in Tudor Square on the evening of Sunday, March 30.
Mohammed Miah, aged 44, has been charged with robbery, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and criminal damage.
He appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court earlier this month, where he was remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, May 2.
Farming
Pembrokeshire Show elects first joint presidents

DAIRY FARMERS TIM AND MARGARET JOHNS HONOURED BY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
HAVERFORDWEST dairy farmers Tim and Margaret Johns have been unanimously elected as the first joint Presidents of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society.
The couple, who farm at Pencnwc in partnership with their son Graham, represent the third generation of their family to work the land. Their 550-acre holding in Castlemorris includes dairy cattle and the cultivation of both winter and spring cereals.
Margaret and Tim have a long-standing association with the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society and the County Show. Margaret, in particular, has achieved considerable success in equestrian showing at events including Royal Windsor, the Great Yorkshire Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show. She also founded and continues to run Castlemorris Equestrian and Pet Supplies from the farm.
Speaking following their appointment, Tim said: “Margaret and I work as a partnership. The County Show is a major part of Pembrokeshire and is an integral part of farming in the county. We are looking forward to the year ahead. We have chosen RABI and the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society as our charities to support over the next 12 months.”
During the Society’s Annual General Meeting, held recently at the Pembrokeshire Showground, Mr and Mrs James Evans were voted in as Presidents Elect.
Other appointments for 2025 include Miss Alys Owens, who was named as the Society’s Ambassador. Alys, who lives in Haverfordwest and works for Castell Howell, is an active member of Llysyfran YFC. She served as Club Secretary last year, a role for which she was named Club Secretary of the Year at County level. A talented musician, Alys plays the cornet with Goodwick Brass Band.
Outgoing President Adam Thorne used the occasion to thank all those who had supported him during his term in office.
Alys Owens, the 2025 Ambassador, is pictured between Margaret and Tim Johns, the 2025/26 Joint Presidents.
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