News
Self-employed urged to apply for grant if they’ve lost income due to Covid-19

APPROXIMATELY 2,400 self-employed people in Pembrokeshire whose business has lost income due to coronavirus have not yet claimed a government grant worth 80% of their trading profits – and they have less than two weeks to submit their application.
The grant is available via the HMRC Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak on 26 March.
Although the scheme has recently been extended, the claim for the first grant must be made on or before July 13.
All those who are eligible in Pembrokeshire are urged to apply for the grant before the deadline if they haven’t done so already.
Under the scheme, the self-employed can claim a taxable grant worth 80% of their trading profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month for three months. To be eligible, self-employed trading profits must be less than £50,000 and more than half of the person’s income must come from self-employment.
HMRC figures estimate there are 8,100 potentially eligible people in Pembrokeshire and some 5,700 claims have been made giving a take-up rate of 70%. This is below the Welsh average of 73% but in line with the UK average. The total value of claims made is £14.3m.
The Preseli Pembrokeshire parliamentary constituency has an estimated 5,300 people who are potentially eligible. Of these, 3,600 have made claims, a take-up rate of 68%.
The take-up rate in the part of the Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire constituency that lies in Pembrokeshire is 75% (2,100 claims from 2,800 eligible people).
Self-employed people should also be aware that the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme is now being extended.
Eligible people are able to claim a second and final grant in August 2020. Their eligibility will be worked out in the same way as the first grant.
If they make a claim for the second grant they will have to confirm their business has been adversely affected on or after 14 July 2020.
For more information on the HMRC Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) please visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant-through-the-self-employment-income-support-scheme
Community
Residents thanked as Carmarthen gas works completed on time

ESSENTIAL upgrade works to gas pipes in King Street, Carmarthen, have been completed on time and to plan, Wales & West Utilities has confirmed.
The project, which began in early January, was part of the company’s programme to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for homes and businesses in the area—now and for years to come.
The company worked closely with Carmarthenshire County Council to coordinate traffic management throughout the scheme and minimise disruption.
Adam Smith, who managed the project for Wales & West Utilities, thanked local residents and traders for their patience.
He said: “We’d like to thank the local community for bearing with us while we completed this essential work.
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in everyday life—from heating homes and cooking meals to running hot baths. We understand how important it is that the supply is safe, reliable and there when you need it.
“This work will keep gas flowing safely to homes and businesses today, while also helping to prepare the network to carry hydrogen and biomethane in future, supporting the journey to a greener energy system.”
Crime
Tenby man charged after robbery incident

A MAN is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court next month after being charged in connection with a late-night incident in Tenby town centre.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that no one was injured during the disturbance, which took place at a restaurant in Tudor Square on the evening of Sunday, March 30.
Mohammed Miah, aged 44, has been charged with robbery, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and criminal damage.
He appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court earlier this month, where he was remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, May 2.
Farming
Pembrokeshire Show elects first joint presidents

DAIRY FARMERS TIM AND MARGARET JOHNS HONOURED BY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
HAVERFORDWEST dairy farmers Tim and Margaret Johns have been unanimously elected as the first joint Presidents of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society.
The couple, who farm at Pencnwc in partnership with their son Graham, represent the third generation of their family to work the land. Their 550-acre holding in Castlemorris includes dairy cattle and the cultivation of both winter and spring cereals.
Margaret and Tim have a long-standing association with the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society and the County Show. Margaret, in particular, has achieved considerable success in equestrian showing at events including Royal Windsor, the Great Yorkshire Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show. She also founded and continues to run Castlemorris Equestrian and Pet Supplies from the farm.
Speaking following their appointment, Tim said: “Margaret and I work as a partnership. The County Show is a major part of Pembrokeshire and is an integral part of farming in the county. We are looking forward to the year ahead. We have chosen RABI and the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society as our charities to support over the next 12 months.”
During the Society’s Annual General Meeting, held recently at the Pembrokeshire Showground, Mr and Mrs James Evans were voted in as Presidents Elect.
Other appointments for 2025 include Miss Alys Owens, who was named as the Society’s Ambassador. Alys, who lives in Haverfordwest and works for Castell Howell, is an active member of Llysyfran YFC. She served as Club Secretary last year, a role for which she was named Club Secretary of the Year at County level. A talented musician, Alys plays the cornet with Goodwick Brass Band.
Outgoing President Adam Thorne used the occasion to thank all those who had supported him during his term in office.
Alys Owens, the 2025 Ambassador, is pictured between Margaret and Tim Johns, the 2025/26 Joint Presidents.
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