News
Community rallies to celebrate Wing Commander Bob’s 90th birthday
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.”
Crime
Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest
A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.
Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.
The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.
During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”
The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.
Community
Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop
ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.
Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”
Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.
Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.
Community
Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market
MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.
The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.
There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.
If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.
Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!
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