News
First Celtic chariot unearthed in Pembrokeshire

THE FIRST example of a Celtic chariot burial in Wales is thought to have been found in south Pembrokeshire by a metal detectorist.
The site, which is believed to be part of a greater Iron Age settlement, is being kept secret by National Museum Wales until a more comprehensive dig can be carried out. Mike Smith, of Milford Haven, is a member of the Pembrokeshire Prospectors, and first found the pieces of metalwork in February, after his preferred detecting site was flooded, forcing him to look elsewhere.
He originally believed the first piece to be a medieval brooch, but upon further research, an expert informed him that it was in fact part of a bronze Celtic horse harness from roughly 600BC.
The bronze was green from corrosion, yet the red enamelling had not faded with time, and when Mr Smith returned the next day, he found further bridle fittings, a brooch and tools.
In June, Dyfed Archaeological Trust and National Museum Wales carried out surveys and excavations, and radar revealed ditches and walls that suggest a large Celtic settlement, potentially larger than Castell Henllys.
The excavation also revealed the rims of two rusted iron chariot wheels, whilst a pony’s tooth found next to the bridle revealed the site to be a Celtic chariot burial, the first of its kind to be found in Wales.
Chariot burial was an Iron Age Celtic custom, reserved for those of high status, and often included grave goods symbolising the wealth of those buried. The wooden chariot would soon decay, but the bronze horse harness and iron wheel covers remain to this day.
The Celts as an ethnolinguistic group were once found across Europe, their influence stretching from Ireland to Anatolia, and chariot burials have been documented across the continent.
Around 20 Iron Age chariot burials have been excavated in Britain, roughly dating from between 500 BC and 100 BC, with the vast majority found in north-east England.
It is thought that ploughing would have gradually brought the burial closer to the surface, and a full excavation has been planned for next year, as work stopped after a week due to funding running out.
The research is by no means complete, as scans revealed a three-metre metal anomaly beneath the chariot, but the site now has legal protection, and the dig shall wait until the soil is damp and less compacted.
Crime
Pembroke man denies cocaine drug-driving charge

A PEMBROKE man has pleaded not guilty to drug-driving following an incident last summer.
Sean Agnew, aged 58, of Vetch Close, appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 3) for a further case management hearing.
He is accused of driving a Nissan Qashqai on Hywel Way, Pembroke, on August 1, 2024, while unfit through drugs. It is alleged that a blood test showed a level of Benzoylecgonine — a breakdown product of cocaine — at more than 92 micrograms per litre of blood, exceeding the specified legal limit.
The charge is brought under Section 5A(1)(a) and (2) of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Agnew entered a not guilty plea on February 4 and has been released on unconditional bail.
He is due to appear again at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 10) at 10:00am for a further case management hearing before District Judge J Layton. The case is expected to last 20 minutes.
Ella Passey appeared for the prosecution on behalf of CPS Wales (South West).
News
Fire crews from five stations tackle Pembrokeshire attic blaze

FIREFIGHTERS were called to a house fire in the early hours of Wednesday (Apr 2) after a blaze broke out in the attic of a three-storey home in north Pembrokeshire.
Crews from Cardigan, Crymych, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn and Haverfordwest fire stations attended the incident in Bridell, near Cilgerran, following a 999 call at 6:03am.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fire had taken hold in the roof and attic space.

Crews used three hose reel jets, three 70-metre hoses, a turntable ladder appliance, a short-extension ladder, six sets of breathing apparatus and various small gear to bring the fire under control.
All occupants of the property were accounted for and no injuries were reported.
An inspection of the property revealed significant damage to the attic and roof structure.
Firefighters left the scene at 12:47pm.
Cover pic:
Damage to roof: The fire left the attic area of the home badly damaged (Pic: Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service).
Entertainment
Easter at Milford Waterfront: Family fun with chocolate trails, markets, and more

MILFORD WATERFRONT will be bursting with Easter fun this April as it hosts a variety of free, family-friendly activities to celebrate the season.
Over the weekend of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April, a spring-themed market will take place from 10:00am to 4:00pm, offering seasonal treats, crafts, and local produce. Children can also meet Rascal the Easter Bunny, who will be making a special walkabout appearance on Saturday (Apr 5) from midday until 2:30pm.
On Wednesday 16 April, families are invited to visit Milford Haven Museum to discover the town’s rich maritime history. Afterwards, youngsters can collect a free Easter trail map and set off on a chocolate-themed treasure hunt around the waterfront’s shops and attractions. Completed trails can be exchanged for a small Easter egg. More details are available at www.milfordwaterfront.co.uk.
Throughout the Easter season, visitors can indulge in seasonal delights from a range of independent businesses, including artisan chocolates at Trwffl and Dilly’s, or natural skincare gifts from Akamuti. The waterfront is also home to a selection of boutique clothing and gift shops—perfect for finding something special this spring.
Adventurous visitors can make the most of the season by getting out on the water, with Milford Beach Activity Centre offering stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking experiences. And for those looking to dine out, the waterfront’s many restaurants will be unveiling their new spring menus, featuring locally sourced seafood and family favourites with marina views.
Stay by the sea this Easter
Right at the heart of the action is Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, which is offering a special Easter Escapes bed and breakfast deal. Guests can enjoy on-site family activities such as oversized board games, cinema screenings, and an Easter trail. Standard rooms for two start from £89 per night, with family rooms from £131 per night, including breakfast. Offer valid for stays between 4–27 April. Book at www.ty-hotels.com.
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