Community

Sergeant commended for his commitment to staff

Published

5 years ago

January 30, 2020

A POLICE sergeant has been commended for his commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of his team.

Dyfed-Powys Police Sergeant Tom Grace is widely seen by his peers and managers as taking personal responsibility for the mental and emotional wellbeing of his staff.

Over the past 18 months in particular, a number of colleagues have credited Sgt Grace with helping them pull through difficult personal circumstances through offering his time in and out of work.

His passion for supporting his staff has been described as “empowering”, and has led to him being recognised at a commendation ceremony.

Sgt Grace, who joined Dyfed-Powys Police as a Special Constable in Cardigan in 1999, said: “I really enjoy my job. I’ve had bad days, the same as everyone, but I’ve always found myself working within good teams of officers, with support offered when I’ve asked, or someone has sensed I was down.

“Any role in the police service is a demanding one, and with the effects of austerity in recent years I have witnessed the impact of the strains of the job more so on people.

“I feel as a sergeant this is a key role where we can identify when support is needed. If I can provide that little bit of support or guidance, I’m succeeding.”

From a Special, Sgt Grace joined as a PCSO and then became a PC in 2007. He is now based in the response team in Llanelli.

Through his experiences across Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire, he has adopted techniques and practices from his own supervisors, combining them to be the best leader he can.

He said: “It’s one of the hardest jobs, working in the police service, but certainly one of the most rewarding also.

“Not only my shift, but all those around me know – or at least I hope they know – they can always speak to me about anything, whether work related or not.”

Sgt Grace regularly checks on his officers’ workload, taking on tasks to prevent them from becoming overwhelmed, supports colleagues who have had time off work due to illness or injury, and even takes it on himself to ensure his team is catered for on duty.

On Christmas Day, he made a cooked breakfast for Llanelli town and rural officers to keep them going through the day.

“I am a great believer in the quote ‘an army marches on its stomach’,” he said. “We have all had those extended shifts, hours on end having not had a break.

“As a constable, and now a sergeant, I take steps to ensure officers receive either a refreshment break or food on the go.

“It’s a morale booster, and we all certainly work better fed than on an empty stomach. I find myself fortunate with a very supportive wife and family who have always assisted in this – a bowl of chilli, sandwiches for everyone at scene preservation, or sometimes a couple of extra plates of Sunday dinner, provided by my wife or mother-in-law.

“It’s the least I can do for all officers and staff that work tirelessly to provide a quality service.”

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

13 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

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

Published

22 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.