TRIBUTES PAID TO SAILORS AND MARINES WHO PERISHED IN LANDING CRAFT TRAGEDY

A MOVING service of remembrance was held at Freshwater West today (Thursday, April 24) to honour the memory of the sailors and Royal Marines who lost their lives when Landing Craft Gun (Large) 15 and 16 and HMS Rosemary were lost off the Pembrokeshire coast in April 1943.

The solemn gathering took place at the memorial above the beach where the disaster unfolded during a fierce storm 82 years ago. Wreaths were laid, prayers were said, and tributes were paid to the bravery and sacrifice of the men who perished in what remains one of Wales’ worst maritime tragedies.

Veterans, serving members of the armed forces, civic leaders, cadets, police, RNLI and residents joined together to pay their respects.

The disaster that should never have happened

On the night of April 25–26, 1943, LCG(L) 15 and LCG(L) 16, heavily laden and caught in a violent Atlantic gale, were refused shelter first at Fishguard and then at Milford Haven. Battered by enormous waves, both landing craft were swamped and ultimately sank off Freshwater West, taking dozens of men with them into the freezing sea.

HMS Rosemary, an ageing Royal Navy sloop, attempted a rescue but suffered tragedy of her own when six sailors drowned after their small boat capsized in the storm.

In total, at least 79 men—Royal Navy and Royal Marines—lost their lives. Many are buried in Milford Haven Cemetery or commemorated at naval memorials in Portsmouth, Plymouth and Chatham.

Community remembers

Representatives from the Royal British Legion, Milford Haven Sea Cadets, and local history groups attended today’s service, alongside members of the public who stood in silent tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

A minute’s silence was held overlooking the waters where the two landing craft went down, followed by the playing of the Last Post. Wreaths were laid on behalf of Milford Haven Town Council, Pembrokeshire County Council, the Royal Navy, and veterans’ organisations.

Speaking at the event, a representative said: “On this coastline where they were lost, we gather to remember not only their sacrifice, but also the tragedy of their passing. Their memory lives on in Milford Haven, and will never be forgotten.”

Relatives of some of the men travelled from across the country to attend, reflecting the enduring bond between those who serve and the communities they leave behind.

Calls for formal recognition

Despite the scale of the disaster, it received little public attention during the war, and the full findings of the Board of Enquiry were never released. Campaigners are continuing to call for a formal apology and greater national recognition ahead of the 85th anniversary in 2028.

As the wind swept across the beach today, the message from Freshwater West was clear: the sacrifices of April 1943 will always be remembered.

WORKS to improve the appearance of a prominent Tenby hotel which overlooks both Caldey Island and St Catherine’s Island have been backed by the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Martin Phillips of Clarence House Hotel, The Esplanade sought permission for to replace existing signage with “newer, less obtrusive signs,” including a change of the front signage for one incorporating the Clarence’s name and logo.

Tenby Town Council backed the proposals, saying it was a “markedly improved upgrade on the Grade-II-listed hotel, in the town’s conservation area.

An officer report recommending approval said: “There are five new signs proposed as part of this application. These will aim to replace the existing and dated signage currently present on the Clarence House Hotel.

“The Building Conservation Officer has supported the application and has stated that the designs are a clear improvement on the existing situation. The proposed signage is to replace the existing signage with a more modern design; however, this will not impact the heritage of the listed building and has a positive impact on the street scene. The designs are appropriate in terms of design, scale and positioning.

“[Policy] requires that the identity and character of the town and village is not lost. The proposed signage does not compromise the existing character of the building or the streetscape and is therefore acceptable.

“The proposal for new signage for the Clarence House Hotel will have a beneficial impact on the street scene and the conservation area of Tenby. The proposal adheres to all relevant national, regional and local legislation and policy.”

The application was approved by park planners.

CARDIGAN was packed on Saturday (Apr 26) as people gathered for the town’s traditional Barley Saturday festivities.

The popular event, which dates back to the 19th century, saw hundreds line the streets to enjoy a colourful procession of horses, vintage vehicles, and floats. Families, visitors, and locals alike filled the town centre, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.

The event celebrates Cardigan’s agricultural heritage, when farmers would traditionally come to town to hire workers and show off their best horses after the spring sowing of barley. Today, it remains one of Ceredigion’s most cherished and best-loved annual traditions.

Speaking to The Herald, one visitor said: “It’s brilliant to see the town so full of life. The horses were beautiful, and it’s a fantastic event for all ages.”

Businesses reported a bumper day, with cafés, pubs and shops enjoying a steady stream of customers. Many said it was the busiest they had seen the town in months.

The highlight of the day was the grand parade, featuring impeccably groomed horses and carriages, followed by a wide range of classic and agricultural vehicles. Crowds cheered and applauded as they passed through the town centre.

Organisers said they were delighted with the turnout and the community spirit shown by all those who took part.

(Images: Gareth Davies Photography/Herald)