News

Councillor thinks race equality gesture is a waste of electricity

Published

4 years ago

June 9, 2020

A PEMBROKESHIRE County Councillor has criticised his local authority’s plans to illuminate its headquarters in support of the Black Lives Matter campaign.
The council said that County Hall in Haverfordwest will be bathed in a purple light tonight (Tuesday, Jun 9) in memory of George Floyd and in solidarity with the protests his death sparked around the world.

Council Leader, David Simpson, said: “The Authority is keen to show its support for the anti-racism movement and purple is the colour synonymous with the struggle against oppression.”

Local authorities in both England and Wales have arranged, or are arranging, similar gestures for their offices.

But controversial Pembroke Dock Councillor, Paul Dowson is not convinced that the local authority is doing the right thing.

He suggests that the light show will be seen by few during lockdown and is a waste of funds when money is tight due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Writing on Facebook, Cllr Dowson posted:” So county hall will be bathed in purple light to show our support for “black lives matter”
“Why?
“We all agree that black lives matter. As do white lives.
“Are we supporting the actions of BLM protesters stoning police officers in the UK over something that took place in the USA.
“Are we supporting those activists who are putting our lives at risk by not giving a shit about social distancing.
“Who is footing the bill for these purple lights and the power required to run them, particularly given that money is in short supply during this pandemic. It could be better spent propping up our key workers.
“Yes, black lives matter we do not need to waste money flood lighting county hall to say this. I do not support this crazy idea and will make my feelings known with those who gave it the go ahead.
“As a footnote …who is going to see this light show? We are in lockdown!

Facebook page Pembrokeshire Musings has posted a mock-up of Councillor Dowson in a scene from the cult film The Life of Brian, jokingly suggesting he supports slavery.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

15 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

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

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.