News
Oakwood selling off parts of its famous rides
OAKWOOD Theme Park is giving die-hard fans the chance to take a piece of the park home with them this summer as hundreds of its former ride parts are set to go on sale.
The Pembrokeshire attraction is selling off parts of some of its most famous and popular rides to the public, including family coaster Treetops, water thrill ride, Drenched, and globally renowned fan favourite, Megafobia.
Following the refurbishment of its attractions, more than 20 different types of ride parts and items of park memorabilia will be up for grabs at Oakwood’s on site ‘Mega Shop’ retail outlet. These will include ride wheels and bearings, as well as a selection of signs, banners and maps from the family park.
Phil Verbinnen, Park Director at Oakwood Theme Park said: “We are excited to give members of the public the chance to own some of our ride memorabilia. This is a very unique opportunity for ride enthusiasts and theme park lovers alike to get their hands on an array of original and quirky items, as well as to take home an important piece of Oakwood’s history.
“Some of the parts on sale have served the park for several years so it will be great to see them given a new lease of life. We’re intrigued to see where these items are re-homed, be that a business, a home or another venue. The parts have already proven very popular, drawing a lot of interest and with a selection of one-off pieces on sale, once they’re gone, they’re gone!”
Unsurprisingly, having served the park for several years, many of the goods show signs of wear and tear, adding to their nostalgic value.
Items available at the store may change on a daily basis, depending on stock, with prices starting from £7.50. The goods will be on sale throughout the 2019 season.
Community
Mid and West Wales Fire Service launches recruitment drive
THE MID AND WEST WALES FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE has announced it is halfway through its recruitment window for Wholetime Firefighters. The service is actively seeking individuals from diverse backgrounds to join their ranks and contribute to the safety and well-being of communities across Mid and West Wales.
Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM emphasised the evolving nature of the firefighter’s role, stating, “The role of a Wholetime Firefighter goes far beyond tackling fires, road traffic collisions and water rescues. Modern-day firefighters play a crucial part in educating the public and working to prevent risks to life and the environment.”
The MAWWFRS is keen to attract applicants with a wide range of skills and experiences, recognising the diverse challenges faced by today’s fire service. “We encourage people from a variety of backgrounds to apply, emphasising the diverse skill set needed for this challenging yet rewarding career,” added Thomas.
This recruitment initiative is seen as a vital step in ensuring the service has the necessary personnel to respond effectively to emergencies and maintain safety standards across the region. The MAWWFRS covers a vast area, encompassing nearly two-thirds of Wales, making it the third largest Fire and Rescue Service in the United Kingdom.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit the MAWWFRS website for detailed information on fitness requirements, the application process, and how to apply. The online registration window closes at 12pm on Monday, 27th January 2025.
As the service continues its mission to create safer communities, this recruitment drive offers an opportunity for individuals to become part of a team that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Citations:
[1] http://eastwoodacademy.co.uk/docs/How%20to%20write%20a%20newspaper%20article.pdf
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid_and_West_Wales_Fire_and_Rescue_Service
[3] https://midwestwalesfire.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s5689/HR%20People%20and%20Well-Being%20Update%20Report.pdf
[4] https://nickdale.me/2023/05/31/how-to-write-a-newspaper-article/
[5] https://www.gov.wales/find-your-local-fire-and-rescue-service
[6] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/join-us/current-vacancies/
[7] https://www.superprof.co.uk/resources/questions/english/broadsheet-articles.html
[8] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk
[9] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/join-us/
[10] https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/body/mid_and_west_wales_fire_and_rescue_service
News
Residents urged to check eligibility for Warm Homes scheme
PEOPLE living in Mid and West Wales are being urged to check if they are eligible to join the 11,550 homes across the region which have already been adapted to make them warmer, greener and fit for the future under a Welsh Labour Government scheme.
Between 2011 and 2024, 82,000 households benefitted from measures in their homes through the Welsh Labour Government’s Warm Homes Nest Scheme.
Joyce Watson MS, Labour Senedd Member for Mid and West Wales, said:
“I know that many of my constituents in Mid and West Wales are worried about their energy bills. The Welsh Labour Government recognises this and is spending £30 million this year to help cut bills.”
First Minister Eluned Morgan MS, Labour Senedd Member for Mid and West Wales, added:
“Thousands of eligible homes in Mid and West Wales have already benefitted from the Warm Homes Scheme, and yours could be next.
“In 2022-2023, the original scheme saved families on average £422 a year on their energy bills – real money that can make a real difference to people’s lives.”
The Warm Homes Scheme works by offering free, impartial advice to anyone and practical upgrades to eligible homes. These upgrades could include heat pumps, solar panels and better insulation, while appliances such as boilers can be repaired and replaced.
The Welsh Government also offers interest-free loans through the Green Homes Wales scheme, for homeowners who want to save energy but can’t afford the initial costs. 2,500 people in Wales have already engaged in the scheme.
Upgrading home energy efficiency is not just about saving money, but also helps save our environment. Reducing the energy that we use in our homes is one practical way to help the Welsh Government reach its commitment to net-zero by 2050.
Find out what support you may be eligible for by visiting the Welsh Government Nest Cymru website and the Green Homes Wales website.
Crime
Police investigate as spate of burglaries hits West Wales communities
DYFED-POWYS POLICE have said they are investigating a series of burglaries that occurred in the St Clears, Narberth, and Haverfordwest areas on 22 January 2025. The incidents, which police believe are linked, have resulted in property damage and the theft of valuable items including cash, jewellery, and power tools.
Detective Inspector Owen Lock has reassured the public that enquiries are ongoing and the force is committed to apprehending those responsible. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities, emphasising the importance of community vigilance.
“No matter how insignificant it may seem, please report all suspicious activity to police immediately, and don’t assume someone else would have notified us,” DI Lock stated.
In light of these events, police are advising residents and second-home owners to check their properties, ensure they are secure, and safeguard valuables by using protective marking and secure storage.
This recent spate of burglaries follows an attempted break-in at a flat above the Welsh Bakery in Robert Street, Milford Haven, between 18 and 20 January 2025.
The proximity in time and location suggests a possible surge in criminal activity in the region.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any concerns to Dyfed-Powys Police via their website, email, social media, or by calling 101. For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555111 or through their website.
As investigations continue, local authorities are working to enhance community safety and prevent further incidents. Residents are advised to review their home security measures and stay informed about crime prevention strategies available on the Dyfed-Powys Police website.
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