Community
Redevelopment brings Iron Age to life
FAMILY LIFE in the Iron Age will feel closer than ever as the redevelopment of a unique visitor attraction in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park takes shape.
Work is in full swing to develop Castell Henllys Iron Age Village with the creation of a new visitor centre featuring interactive exhibitions, a shop and a café. The popular attraction, run by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, is receiving funding for the project from Cadw’s Heritage Tourism Project (part funded by the European Regional Development Fund – ERDF) and the Visit Wales Digital Tourism Business Framework (funded by the ERDF). The funds have paid for an extension of the existing building, new exhibitions including digital interactives and an app bringing augmented reality to a National Park site for the first time. ‘Green’ technology is also being introduced, including a biomass boiler. The project will also introduce visitors to wider prehistoric Pembrokeshire, linking Castell Henllys with other important heritage sites in the National Park. Chairman of the National Park Authority Cllr Mike James said: “These are exciting times for Castell Henllys and for all our visitors. There’s nowhere else quite like this evocative place; it’s the only Iron Age Village in Britain reconstructed on a site where our ancestors lived 2,000 years ago. “Developing the attraction here will help conserve the cultural heritage of the National Park and it will further boost tourism, bringing wider economic benefits to Pembrokeshire as a whole. “It also gives the National Park Authority a great opportunity to spread the message about sustainable living. Visitors to Castell Henllys can learn about the past here but more importantly they can also learn from the past. They’ll find out what daily life was like, but they’ll also find out how we can learn lessons from our ancestors to conserve the tremendous landscape we live in.” Construction work is being carried out by Whitland-based contractor Dorian Phillips & Partners. Dorian Phillips said: “This is a very interesting development and we are extremely happy to be working with the National Park Authority to create this new visitor centre for Castell Henllys.” The revamped centre will be officially launched in spring 2015 and it is business as usual in the meantime, though from May to July visitors are advised to phone before making a special trip to make sure all parts of the site are open. Call 01239 891319. For details visit www. castellhenllys.com.
Charity
Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign
THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.
Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.
The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:
- Privates are private.
- Always remember your body belongs to you.
- No means no.
- Talk about secrets that upset you.
- Speak up; someone can help.
After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign
He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.
“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”
Community
Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match
A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.
Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.
The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.
Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.
Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.
For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.
Community
Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards
CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.
The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.
Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”
The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.
Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.
For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.
Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.
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