News

Community rallies to celebrate Wing Commander Bob’s 90th birthday

Published

5 years ago

May 1, 2020

THE PEMBROKESHIRE community has rallied around to give a 90 year-old RAF veteran a birthday he will never forget.

Wing Commander Robert (Bob) Jones of Pembroke Dock turned 90 yesterday, Thursday 30th April, surrounded by cards, gifts, balloons, food and drink kindly gifted by local residents and businesses.

The incredible community effort swung into action to ensure Bob wasn’t alone on his birthday after his planned party had to be cancelled because of coronavirus.

Bob lives alone and has no family in Pembrokeshire, but a celebration to mark his special day had been planned at his favourite café, the Wavecrest in Angle.

Bob loved visiting the café every Friday for his lunch and it was there he struck up a friendship with owner Jade Griffiths.

Bob’s family were devastated when the party had to be cancelled but contacted Jade to see if the cafe could organise for some cakes to be delivered.

But Jade decided to go a step further and things soon spiralled beyond her wildest imagination.

An appeal on the Wavecrest Facebook page for cards to mark Bob’s special day was picked up by local media and Pembroke Dock County Councillor Josh Beynon.

Cllr Beynon helped reach more and more people and there was soon a flurry of activity.

As of Thursday morning Jade had amassed around 50 cards, children’s posters and drawings, gifts and well wishes.

Foam in Milford Haven donated food and the Lounge, also Milford Haven, donated a bottle of wine.

Jade, from Pembroke Dock, took the presents, food and cards to Bob on the morning of his birthday.

She said: “He was completely overwhelmed, it was so emotional but so heart-warming.

“He asked me to thank every single person for their kindness, he couldn’t believe it.”

And the celebrations culminated on Thursday evening with Pembroke Dock firefighters, an ambulance crew, Jade’s family, Wavecrest staff, friends and neighbours joining Bob at this home – socially distanced of course – to mark his birthday and the weekly clap for carers.

Jade said: “He was so surprised and phoned his family to say it had been the most memorable day.

“The response has been totally overwhelming from the whole community.

“His family are so grateful for the kindness. During this time of darkness, the level of community spirit and love has been overwhelming.

“I for one will not forget the generosity from the people of Pembrokeshire and beyond.

“From spending time with Bob I can tell you his generation still has so much to give.

“We can learn so much from them and their stories and I’ll be forever grateful for my friendship with him.

“With Captain Tom Moore and Bob sharing a birthday I think it was perfect for community spirit.”

Cllr Beynon said: “One of the things that has amazed me since this lockdown started is the sheer generosity and spirit of the people in our communities all across Pembrokeshire.

“What started out as a Facebook plea has resulted in a home cooked meal, a bottle of wine and more than 50 cards for Mr Jones’ 90th birthday.

“I want to thank everyone who has responded to the request and a special thanks to Jade for organising this. One small act of kindness can mean so much to an individual.’

Bob’s daughter, Helen Boniface, sent thanks to the entire community via Cllr Beynon.

Helen said her father’s fondest childhood memories were those spent with his grandparents, Captain Mark & Amy Roch who lived at 99 Bush Street, Pembroke Dock.

She added: “Thank you everyone, stay safe and well and carry on taking care of one another.”

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards

Information on Social Bite’s Festival can be found: https://www.social-bite.co.uk/