HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY is a time for reflection and remembrance. It allows us to honour those who suffered and renew our commitment to combating hatred and prejudice in all its forms.

Reflecting on the day, Welsh Conservative Leader Darren Millar MS, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of the unimaginable suffering endured by millions during the Holocaust. It is a day to honour the memory of those who were murdered and to reflect on the persecution faced by Jewish people, Gypsies, Roma, disabled individuals, and members of the LGBT community.

“By hearing the voices of survivors and acknowledging this dark chapter in history, we strengthen our commitment to building a world that rejects hate and discrimination in all its forms.

“Eighty years after the liberation of the concentration camps, I urge everyone in Wales to take time today to reflect on these lessons, stand firmly against antisemitism, and challenge racism wherever it persists.”

Also Commenting, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice and Equalities, Dr. Altaf Hussain MS, said:“We cannot forget the unimaginable horrors that millions of people faced during the Holocaust. Tragically, the scourge of genocide continues to plague humanity.

“The millions of Jews, Roma, disabled individuals, and members of the LGBT community persecuted by this evil regime deserve to have their stories preserved as a timeless lesson for us all.

“It has been eighty years since the liberation of the concentration camps and now more than ever we must deeply reflect on the powerful accounts shared with us by the remaining survivors. May their bravery and commitment to speaking out against the horrors committed during the Holocaust continue to inspire the change we need, so that we may all live in society that is fully respectful of people’s religion, race, gender and sexual orientation.”

Young talent prepares to shine
THE TORCH YOUTH THEATRE is gearing up to present Ravers, a vibrant and light-hearted new play that explores the world through the eyes of socially awkward teenagers. Part of the National Theatre Connections programme, Ravers promises to deliver a heartfelt and hilarious performance this March.

What is ‘Ravers’ about?
The play follows Ali, a determined teenager on a mission to host the ultimate rave for outcasts, affectionately dubbed “Neeks” (Nerds and Geeks). But there’s a catch: Ali has never been to a rave before. With no drugs, no drinking, and nothing wilder than hand-holding, this dry rave could either become the highlight of their lives or a complete disaster. For the Neeks, it’s about more than just music and dancing—it’s about finding comfort in being themselves and forging new friendships.

One cast member, aged 16, explained: “It’s about today’s generation of outcasts coming together to find solidarity and comfort in being themselves.”

Months in the making
The youth theatre members have been hard at work on the production since September under the guidance of Tim Howe, Senior Manager for Youth & Community. The group will debut the play at the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven from Thursday, March 6 to Saturday, March 8, before taking it to Aberystwyth Arts Centre in April.

Reflecting on the experience, one young actor shared: “Rehearsals are loud but enjoyable, always introducing us to new skills in performing arts while being a safe space to laugh and connect with each other.” Another added: “I never thought I’d get the opportunity to work with the National Theatre.”

A collaboration with a visionary playwright
Ravers was penned by the prolific playwright Rikki Beadle-Blair, MBE, whose remarkable career spans over 40 plays, films, and TV series. Known for his vibrant storytelling, Beadle-Blair’s works often delve into themes of identity and belonging.

Tim Howe, the production director, expressed his enthusiasm: “The Connections programme celebrates emerging talent across the UK. We’re thrilled to perform Rikki Beadle-Blair’s play, which promises a fun-filled, bop-tastic evening at the theatre.”

Event details
Ravers will run at the Torch Theatre from Thursday, March 6, to Saturday, March 8, with performances starting at 7:30pm. Tickets are £10 for adults and £8 for concessions.

Content warnings:
The play includes depictions of underage drinking, moderate language, themes of anxiety, and references to the loss of a parent.

Whether you’re a fan of theatre, an advocate for youth talent, or simply looking for an evening of laughs and heartfelt moments, Ravers is a show not to be missed.

POLICE and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has announced the police precept for 2025/26 following the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Panel’s unanimous approval at a meeting on Friday (Jan 24). The precept, which forms part of council tax funding for policing, will see an 8.6% increase for an average Band D property—equivalent to £28.65 annually or approximately £2.39 per month.

Transparent budget-setting process

Mr. Llywelyn’s proposal was praised by panel members for its transparency and thorough scrutiny over several months. The Commissioner factored in inflation, cost pressures, service demands, reserves, and community feedback before finalizing the precept.

“The operational and financial landscape remains unpredictable,” Mr. Llywelyn said. “This funding will enable the Force to focus on delivering my new Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029 and improving outcomes for the community.”

Strengthening local policing

The increase will bring significant enhancements to police services, particularly through Local Policing Teams. The precept, along with a £0.7m Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee Grant, will fund 35 additional full-time officers. This allows experienced officers to shift from desk-based roles to frontline policing, bolstering neighbourhood and response teams.

Further investments include upgrades to critical operational equipment, technology, and staffing to improve efficiency and case handling. Vulnerable callers will benefit from strengthened support, and training initiatives will ensure the Force remains responsive to community needs.

Mr. Llywelyn emphasized the importance of visible policing: “We understand the burden any increase places on taxpayers, but this decision is vital for sustaining essential services and increasing visible policing. These investments will help safeguard our communities’ safety and well-being.”

Public consultation informs decision

The Commissioner sought public input, with 54.7% of 707 respondents supporting a precept increase above 9% to protect services. The approved 8.6% rise will set the Band D precept at £360.68 for 2025/26, raising £86.366m and contributing to total funding of £153.304m—a £9.4m (6.5%) increase from last year.

Future plans

The Commissioner’s new Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029 will outline objectives for improving performance and outcomes.
“I extend my thanks to the public for their input and to the Police and Crime Panel for their continued support,” Mr. Llywelyn added.