News

St Davids: Minister opens new school

Published

6 years ago

November 30, 2018

A NEW school for three to 16-year-olds on the St Davids peninsula has been officially opened.

Ysgol yr Eglwys yng Nghymru Penrhyn Dewi in St Davids – the first of its kind – operates across the three sites formerly known as Ysgol Dewi Sant, Ysgol Bro Dewi and Solva Community School.

A plaque commemorating the event was unveiled earlier today (Nov 30) by Eluned Morgan AM, Minister for Welsh Language and Lifelong Learning.

Also in attendance was the St Davids Cathedral Dean, The Very Reverend Dr Sarah Rowland-Jones.

Penrhyn Dewi is the first Church in Wales secondary phase school to open since the 1920s and the Church’s first ever 3-16 school.

The former Ysgol Dewi Sant site has seen £4 million investment into a part-new build and remodelling of teaching accommodation. The contractor was WB Griffiths and Son of Haverfordwest.

Post-16 provision for pupils is available at the new sixth form centre in Haverfordwest as part of a formal collaboration between the County Council and Pembrokeshire College.

Penrhyn Dewi opened its doors to pupils in September.

It is one of several new schools which have been built – or are being built – in Pembrokeshire under the 21^st Century Schools and Education Programme, a collaboration between Pembrokeshire County Council and the Welsh Government who are sharing the funding.

The Diocese of St Davids also contributed to the funding of the new school.

Baroness Morgan – whose family hails from St Davids – was welcomed to the school by Council Chairman, Aden Brinn and headteacher, David Haynes.

At the official opening ceremony, musical items were performed by the Cathedral Choristers and the school choir.

She told guests: “It is a pleasure to officially open Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi and I am delighted that the Welsh Government’s has made such an important investment in education in Pembrokeshire by contributing £3.4 million to the £4 million cost of renovating the school.

“The most ambitious school building programme since the 1960s, Band A of our 21st Century Schools and Education Programme will see an overall investment of £1.4billion, including over £120 million for Pembrokeshire. Band B will see a further £2.3 billion invested, starting next year.

“Our pupils deserve the best learning environment to help them achieve their best and I’m so pleased Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi delivers this across the three campuses.

“I would like to congratulate everyone involved, and wish Mr Haynes, his staff and pupils the very best of luck for the future.”

The Minister later toured the new school meeting pupils.

Entertainment

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

Published

11 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

11 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

18 hours 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.”