RNLI volunteers and a Coastguard rescue team helped carry the casualty from Aberavon Beach after a suspected knee dislocation

MILFORD HAVEN Coastguard helped coordinate a multi-agency rescue after a paddleboarder was injured in the water at Aberavon Beach.

The incident happened on Tuesday (July 7), close to the North Breakwater, after the paddleboarder reportedly fell from their board and suffered a suspected dislocated knee.

Port Talbot RNLI volunteers had just completed a scheduled training exercise in Swansea Bay when they were tasked by Coastguard controllers at Milford Haven to assist the casualty.

The station’s lifeboat, Craig Morris, made its way to the scene, where the crew located the injured paddleboarder in shallow water close to the shoreline.

Helm Carl Matthews decided to beach the lifeboat, allowing the volunteers to reach the casualty quickly and begin administering first aid.

After assessing the paddleboarder’s injuries and bringing them safely ashore, the crew requested assistance from the Port Talbot Coastguard Rescue Team.

Working together, the RNLI and Coastguard volunteers carefully carried the casualty from the beach to a family member’s vehicle. They were then taken to hospital for further assessment and treatment.

Port Talbot RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Clive Morris said: “Our crew responded very quickly to this incident, arriving within minutes of the call being made.

“Thanks to their training in casualty care, they were able to administer immediate treatment to the casualty.

“Working closely with our colleagues from Port Talbot Coastguard Rescue Team, the casualty was safely extracted from the location. Our crews train for all eventualities and this incident demonstrated the value of that training.

“This was another excellent example of the lifeboat and Coastguard working hand in hand, highlighting the importance of multi-agency teamwork in achieving the best possible outcome. We wish the casualty well in their recovery.”

The incident highlights the role played by the Milford Haven Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, where Coastguard officers coordinate responses to emergencies around the Welsh coastline.

The RNLI is reminding paddleboarders and other water users to carry a reliable means of calling for help and to wear an appropriate personal flotation device.

Anyone who sees a person in difficulty at the coast should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Long-serving supporters Diane and Emily Lloyd cut the ribbon as the children’s hospice charity begins a new chapter in the town

TY HAFAN has officially opened its newly relocated charity shop in the centre of Cardigan, marking the latest chapter in its long-standing relationship with the town and surrounding communities.

Diane Lloyd and her daughter Emily, both dedicated supporters of Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, cut the ceremonial ribbon at the new premises at 25 High Street on Friday, July 10.

Diane has worked for the charity for 22 years, while Emily has volunteered for Tŷ Hafan for the past 11 years.

The charity currently supports 22 families caring for children and young people with life-shortening conditions in the Ceredigion Penfro Senedd constituency. A further 17 families continue to receive bereavement support.

Maree Thomas, regional sales manager for Tŷ Hafan, thanked the community, volunteers and businesses that helped make the relocation possible.

She said: “I’d like to thank everyone who joined us on this exciting occasion as we opened our newly relocated Cardigan Tŷ Hafan store.

“We’ve been present on this high street for over 30 years, with the first few years spent in a tiny cabin and the last 22 years in the smaller shop just down the road.

“None of this would have been possible without the wonderful Lloyd family and other local supporters, who were among the first fundraisers for Tŷ Hafan.”

She also thanked the shop’s volunteers, landlord Andrew, local companies, donors, customers and supporters who helped with the move.

“Your support means that we can walk alongside every family that needs us,” she said.

“Our shops play an important part in raising funds and awareness of the hospice. Right now, we are only supporting one in ten families who have a child whose life will be short.

“Our ambition is that when a child’s life will be short, no family should have to live it on their own.”

During the past year, the Cardigan community has contributed around 3,000 volunteer hours, donated 2,000 bags of goods and purchased approximately 3,000 items from the charity.

The move to larger premises will allow the shop to display and sell more donated goods, helping to raise additional funds for hospice care.

Shop manager Diane said: “I would like to thank the local community for its massive support over the past 30 years, right from when we started in a little cabin in the market to our lovely new shop on the High Street.

“I’d also like to thank my absolutely amazing volunteers. Some have been with me for more than ten years and some have been here since the shop opened. Without them, we simply could not do what we do.”

Emily said volunteering had given her the opportunity to help families while also being part of a friendly and welcoming team.

She said: “I love volunteering for Tŷ Hafan. It’s great fun, it keeps me busy and you know you’re making a difference for local families with children who have life-shortening conditions.

“We’re always looking for more volunteers, so anyone who would like to join us can email [email protected] or call 02920 532255.”

Musician Mark Watkin Price also performed during the opening celebrations, singing and playing guitar for visitors and supporters.

The new shop is expected to begin trading seven days a week and includes a dedicated donation drop-off area at the rear of the premises.

Llanerchindda Farm Guest House, nestled in the spectacular Cambrian Mountains near the famous Cynghordy Viaduct in Carmarthenshire, has been named AA Bed & Breakfast of the Year Wales 2026.

The prestigious award recognises the very highest standards of hospitality, accommodation and guest experience across Wales.

The family-run guest house, which is owned and managed by Lynn and Martin Hadley, together with their twin sons, Andrew and Mark, has built an outstanding reputation for offering guests a peaceful rural retreat in one of Wales’ most beautiful landscapes.

Visitors from across the UK and around the world are drawn to Llanerchindda for its stunning views, tranquil surroundings, exceptional hospitality and easy access to walking, cycling and outdoor adventures throughout the Cambrian Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.

Cynghordy Viaduct

The business has continued to evolve in recent years, investing in a substantially enlarged dining room overlooking the valley towards the Cynghordy Viaduct and the Black Mountain skyline, alongside an expanded online presence through social media and a new website.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this award,” said Martin. “It’s recognition not only of our family’s commitment but of every member of our fantastic team who works tirelessly to make every guest feel welcome.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the AA for this honour and to our loyal guests who continue to support us.”

Lynn added: “Hospitality has always been about people. Every guest who walks through our door becomes part of the Llanerchindda story. This award belongs to everyone who has helped us along the way.”

A key part of the guest house’s success has been its dedicated staff whose professionalism, warmth and attention to detail help create memorable experiences for every visitor.

Lynn, Martin, Andrew and Mark Hadley with staff members.

Staff member Carol Jones said: “It’s wonderful to see everyone’s hard work recognised. We all love what we do and take great pride in making every guest’s stay as relaxing and enjoyable as possible.”

Guests have welcomed the news. Sarah, a recent visitor, said: “The hospitality at Llanerchindda is second to none. The scenery is breathtaking and every member of staff goes above and beyond. This award is richly deserved.”

International guest Peter added: “I’ve stayed in many wonderful places, but Llanerchindda offers something truly special. It feels like coming home every time.”

The owners also paid tribute to Bryn, the guest house’s much-loved welcoming dog, who has become a favourite recently with guests.

Llanerchindda Farm Guest House continues to attract visitors seeking an authentic Welsh countryside experience, combining award-winning accommodation with breathtaking scenery, exceptional food and genuine family hospitality.