PEMBROKE marked International Women’s Day on Saturday (Mar 8) with a successful cawl competition, bringing the community together to celebrate and support local women.

The event, organised by Pembroke Town Team, saw participants enjoy a variety of cawl, including vegetarian and vegan options, from Gio Recchia Pizza Contemporanea, Watermans Arms, Buddy’s Baked, and Will’s of Pembroke.

A key highlight was the inspiring speeches from local women who play a vital role in the community. Information stalls were also present, with groups such as New Pembrokeshire Pride, Pembroke Street Pastors, and Lamphey WI sharing resources and support.

Local businesswomen showcased their products, offering visitors the chance to browse and buy from a range of stalls.

The event was made possible thanks to a donation from Pembrokeshire Women, which organisers said played a crucial role in ensuring the day’s success. Volunteers, including Lisa Boswell, Angela Marston Halifax, Rhian Cowen, Ness Moseley, Ann Mortenson, and Tegan, worked tirelessly to keep things running smoothly, with Lewis George stepping up as compere.

Organisers thanked all those who attended, saying the support from the community made the event truly special.

MILFORD HAVEN is buzzing with excitement as the Festival of the Sea kicks off this weekend, bringing a wave of marine-themed activities, exhibitions, and workshops to the waterfront.

Organised by Y Môr a Ni, the two-day festival is a celebration of Pembrokeshire’s rich coastal heritage, with events running across Saturday and Sunday (March 9-10) at Milford Waterfront and the Torch Theatre.

Day One: Milford Waterfront comes alive

Today, the festival is in full swing at Milford Waterfront, with activities taking place from 10:00am to 5:00pm. The Waterfront Gallery is hosting hands-on art workshops, where visitors can create marine-inspired fabric bowls and inked tiles under the guidance of local artists.

In the Link Building, festival-goers can explore a range of marine conservation exhibits. The Darwin Centre has microscopes set up for visitors to examine plankton, while the Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum is showcasing renewable energy projects linked to the local area. Câr y Môr is offering an insight into sustainable seaweed products, and the Field Studies Council has interactive touch tanks featuring local marine species.

Outside on Mackerel Quay, visitors can meet representatives from the Royal Navy, Natural Resources Wales, and the RNLI, who are offering insights into maritime safety, naval life, and conservation efforts. Merched y Môr is also on hand to showcase their 11-metre rowing boat, used for endurance challenges and charity events.

Day Two: Marine talks and workshops at the Torch Theatre

On Sunday, the festival moves to the Torch Theatre, where visitors can enjoy talks, exhibitions, and workshops focused on marine life and environmental conservation. Organisations including Sea Trust, the National Trust, and the Cleddau Project will be hosting stands, while artist Fran Evans will be running creative sessions exploring people’s personal connections to the sea.

Workshops on the impact of marine plastic pollution, led by Sea Trust and Willow and Waves, will highlight the importance of protecting Pembrokeshire’s coastline.

A festival with a purpose

The Festival of the Sea is more than just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to learn about and protect Pembrokeshire’s incredible marine environment. With something for all ages, the event aims to inspire local people to engage with the sea, support conservation efforts, and appreciate the beauty of the coast.

Day one is already proving popular, with plenty to see and do for families, marine enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike. If you’re in Milford Haven this weekend, be sure to stop by and immerse yourself in this fantastic coastal festival.

PEMBROKESHIRE LOTTERY held their Spring Superdraw on Wednesday (Mar 5) and the lucky player who scooped the £8,000 prize was Miss Laura Mullins with lottery number 47185.

The draw was aired on Radio Pembrokeshire. Shortly afterwards, the Pembrokeshire Lottery team called Laura to share the news of her win and she visited the office later the same day to claim her prize.

And what will the lucky winner do with the money? Laura told the Pembrokeshire Lottery team that she’d already decided to book a family holiday and a day trip to Legoland for the children.

The normal £2,000 weekly draws continue, with more monthly Superdraws of either £4,000 or £8,000, leading up to the highlight of the Pembrokeshire Lottery’s year, the £10,000 Christmas Superdraw.