News
£9m in compensation, plus annual payments, after negligence at birth causes life of ‘acute disability’

A TEENAGER born to a life of acute disability due to a negligent delay in his delivery at a Pembrokeshire hospital will receive millions in NHS compensation.
Hywell Dda University Local Health Board issued a public apology for failings in care at Haverfordwest’s Withybush Hospital that led to the boy’s injuries.
And it agreed to pay him a lump sum of £8,950,000, plus substantial, index-linked, annual sums to cover the costs of the constant care he will always need.
The judge, Mr Justice Stewart, told London’s High Court there was a negligent delay in delivering the boy by Caesarean section in 2006.
His mother suffered a ruptured uterus and her baby’s brain was damaged by oxygen starvation, resulting in cerebral palsy.
He has learning difficulties and mild epilepsy and needs to live in a one-storey, wheelchair-accessible, home, the court heard.
“He vocalises a lot, and some of this has meaning, but he will always be dependent on others for his most basic needs,” the judge added.
The health board admitted liability in full for the boy’s injuries and a final settlement of his medical negligence claim was today approved by the judge.
Together with the lump sum, he will receive annual payments of £174,000, rising to £270,000 in 2024. Those payments will continue for the rest of his life.
Experts predict that he will live to the age of 70, although all involved in the case hoped that was an under-estimate.
NHS counsel, Michael Horne QC, said: “The health board apologises unreservedly for the fact that the care fell below the expected standards.
“It is deeply sorry, lessons have been learned and the health board has written directly to the family.”
Praising the “outstanding level of care” given to the boy by his parents, the barrister said: “They have done all they can to help him achieve his potential and we pay tribute to them for that.”
Approving the settlement, the judge said: “I am satisfied that a proper and professional assessment has been made.”
He concluded: “It is clear just how much loving care has been given to him by his parents who have worked together for the common good.
“I hope that this settlement will enable the claimant and his family to enjoy as full a life as possible in the knowledge that his needs will always be catered for.”
Business
Caban Pendine celebrates launch of new 12-hole crazy golf course

A BRAND-NEW 12-hole crazy golf course has officially opened at Caban Pendine, bringing fun and adventure to the heart of Pendine Sands.
The course was unveiled at a special launch event held at 2:00pm on Friday (April 11), with families, residents, and visitors among the first to enjoy the colourful and creative course. The attraction features imaginative obstacles, bold designs, and plenty of twists and turns—offering a light-hearted challenge for players of all ages.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Pendine Sands, the new course adds to the area’s growing reputation as a leisure and tourism hotspot.
Cllr Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture & Tourism, said:
“We are delighted to officially open the Crazy Golf course at Caban in Pendine. It’s been fantastic to see so many people enjoying themselves and getting into the spirit of friendly competition. This new addition enhances our leisure offering and provides a great activity for families, friends, and visitors of all ages.”
Course now open daily
The Caban Crazy Golf Course is now open every day between 11:00am and 5:00pm, offering an affordable and entertaining experience. Whether you’re planning a day out with the kids, a casual game with friends, or just looking for something different, the course promises plenty of fun and laughter.
Visitor information
Location: Caban Pendine, Pendine Sands
Opening hours: 11:00am – 5:00pm daily
Admission: Adults £5, Children £4, Concessions £4
For more information, visit www.cabanpendine.wales or follow @CabanPendine on social media for updates, events, and special offers.
Community
Western section of Tywi Valley Path opens to the public

THE FIRST section of the Tywi Valley Path has officially opened to the public today (Friday, April 11), marking a significant milestone in one of Carmarthenshire’s most ambitious infrastructure and tourism projects.
Stretching approximately four miles from Abergwili to Nantgaredig, the newly completed western section is now accessible to walkers, cyclists, and wheelchair users, offering a traffic-free route through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Wales.
A bird’s eye view of the route, between Nantgaredig and Whitemill, has also been released, showcasing the natural beauty and scenic value of the area.
Once fully completed, the Tywi Valley Path will run for 16.7 miles from Abergwili to Ffairfach, following the meandering route of the River Tywi as it flows from Llandeilo to Carmarthen. The route will pass through castles, country parks, historic estates, and tourist attractions such as Aberglasney Gardens.
The full path is expected to be open by autumn or winter 2025 and has been supported by £16.7 million in funding from the UK Government.
It is anticipated that the path will attract visitors from across Wales, the UK and beyond, with projections suggesting it could generate £4.4 million annually for the local economy. The council is working alongside existing and new leisure operators, accommodation providers, and event organisers to maximise the benefits of the new route.
Access to the western section is available from Abergwili Museum and the B4310 near Nantgaredig Rugby Club. Parking is provided at both the museum and the Railway Hotel in Nantgaredig, where refreshments are also available. Confident users can also access the path from Carmarthen town centre.
Bins have been installed at key points along the path, and users are reminded to dispose of litter and dog waste responsibly.
Cllr Edward Thomas, Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste and Infrastructure Services, said:
“We’re delighted to officially open this western section of the Tywi Valley Path in time for the Easter holidays. This first-class, traffic-free path offers families, day visitors, and tourists an unparalleled opportunity to experience the unique and breathtaking beauty of the Tywi Valley.
“I am looking forward to opening the whole path, from Abergwili to Ffairfach later in the year. Once completed, the Tywi Valley Path will not only enhance the charm and access to our local towns and villages but also significantly boost tourism throughout the county, bringing significant economic benefits.”
News
Milford Haven to receive £6m boost for new transport hub

MILFORD HAVEN is set to benefit from a £6 million investment in a major new transport project aimed at transforming the town’s connectivity.
The Welsh Government has announced funding for the Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange as part of a wider £27 million investment in transport infrastructure across South West Wales.
The funding will kickstart construction on the long-anticipated project to redevelop Milford Haven train station, creating a modern transport hub that will include a dedicated bus interchange, taxi rank, improved public realm areas, and new active travel links for pedestrians and cyclists.
The scheme, led by Pembrokeshire County Council, received an additional £1.4 million in capital funding from the local authority earlier this year. It forms part of broader efforts to enhance access to and from the town, supporting both residents and visitors.
Deputy council leader Paul Miller said: “We have been working closely with Welsh Government, Network Rail and the train operating companies for some time now, and I’m delighted we’re in a position to move these proposals forward.
“This project is important in its own right, but it’s also a key enabler for dramatically improving rail connectivity for Milford Haven and Pembrokeshire as a whole.”
The plans include relocating the existing rail platform to improve integration with other forms of transport, a formalised car park, and a new layout connecting the station directly with the nearby retail area.
Mr Miller added: “A new station will do much more than simply improve the station. It will also allow for more frequent services to and from Milford Haven.”
He confirmed that the council is continuing discussions with both the Welsh and UK Governments, as well as Great Western Railways, to restore direct high-speed intercity services to the town.
The new interchange will also link with the Port Authority’s initiatives to improve walking and cycling access to the Milford Haven Dock, supporting tourism and future urban development.
Councillor Rhys Sinnett, cabinet member for residents’ services, said: “If this bid is approved by Welsh Government, it will be fantastic news for Milford Haven and go a long way towards increasing and improving transport connectivity — not just for visitors but, more importantly, for our residents.
“The associated works will enhance safety, improve parking, and provide a much-needed focal point for public transport in the town.”
The project will be delivered by Pembrokeshire County Council.
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