Longest-serving town councillor remembered as tireless champion for her community

TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of former mayor and long-serving town councillor Pamela George, a familiar and much-loved figure in Pembroke Dock public life.

Cllr George, believed to be the town’s longest-serving member of Pembroke Dock Town Council, died on Saturday (Feb 1).

Over decades of service, she became known for her commitment to local causes and her hands-on approach to helping residents, with colleagues describing her as a dedicated public servant who always put the town first.

She served as mayor on nine separate occasions, most recently during the 2022/23 civic year, and was regularly seen supporting community events, fundraisers and local organisations across the town.

In a statement, the Town Council said it was “with great sadness” that members learned of her passing.

A spokesperson added: “Pam was very passionate in her role as councillor and mayor and she will be sorely missed. She gave so much of her time to Pembroke Dock and to the people who live here.”

A book of condolence has been opened to allow residents to pay their respects.

Local representatives from across Pembrokeshire also shared their memories.

Samuel Kurtz MS described the news as “incredibly sad”, offering condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. He said she was always generous with her time and knowledge of the town.

The Pennar Community Hall committee called her “a true stalwart of the community”, recalling her regular presence at fundraising events and her unwavering support for local initiatives.

Fellow councillors said she was known for her positivity and encouragement, as well as her deep pride in Pembroke Dock. One described her as a “great mentor and friend” and “a wonderful ambassador for the town”, while others remembered her constant smile and dedication to residents.

Current mayor Michele Wiggins said the town would feel her loss keenly.

“She was a wonderful champion for Pembroke Dock,” she said. “Her positivity, commitment and loyalty to the town have been like no other. She will be greatly missed.”

Cllr George’s long record of service leaves what many say is a lasting legacy in the community she worked so hard to support.

Fifteen-year-old charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm and possession of a bladed article appears before Swansea magistrates

A FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD boy has been remanded into custody after appearing in court charged with causing serious injuries to a teacher during a knife incident at Milford Haven Comprehensive School.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Saturday following his arrest on Thursday afternoon.

Magistrates heard the alleged attack took place shortly after 3:00pm inside a classroom at the school.

Classroom incident

Prosecutors said the boy is accused of producing a kitchen knife while speaking with a female teacher who was helping him with his work.

The court heard the teacher suffered injuries to her head, back and finger and later received hospital treatment. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Emergency services were called to the scene and officers attended the school as a precaution while the situation was brought under control.

Charges outlined

The teenager is charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a bladed article on education premises, offences under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861.

Section 18 relates to intentionally causing really serious harm and is one of the most serious assault offences in law.

During the brief hearing, the defendant spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth. No pleas were entered.

Family members watched proceedings from the public gallery.

Case moves to Crown Court

Magistrates declined bail and remanded the boy into youth detention accommodation.

He is due to appear next at Swansea Crown Court on February 9.

The Herald understands that safeguarding procedures were put in place at the school following the incident, with pupils kept safe while officers dealt with enquiries.

Police investigations remain ongoing.

PUPILS at St Oswald’s VA Primary School welcomed a visit from local Senedd member Samuel Kurtz on Monday (Feb 2), as children put questions to him about how Wales is governed.

Years five and six pupils took part in an interactive session where the Senedd Cymru member explained the role of the Welsh Parliament, how laws are made, and how elected representatives support local residents.

He outlined what a Member of the Senedd does day-to-day, how decisions affecting communities are taken, and why taking part in democracy is important.

The pupils were then given the chance to quiz him directly, raising questions about politics, local issues and how young people can make their voices heard. Staff said the children showed strong interest and came well prepared.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Kurtz said: “It was a real pleasure to visit St Oswald’s and see such enthusiasm and curiosity from the pupils.

“Understanding how democracy works and how decisions are made is important, and it is encouraging to see young people taking an interest in how their community and country are run.

“I was particularly impressed by the quality of the questions, which showed they had clearly done their research.”

Teachers described the visit as a valuable opportunity to bring lessons about citizenship and Welsh democracy to life.

The school visit forms part of Mr Kurtz’s ongoing programme of meeting with schools, community groups and residents across Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire.