News
Local road safety team is reminding road users to be ‘bright at night’

PEMBROKESHIRE’S Road Safety team is reminding road users to be ‘bright at night’ if you’re out and about.
The message to pedestrians, runners and cyclists is that being easily seen by drivers is especially important at this time of year.
“Making sure you can be seen by other road users is essential at this time of year, when light levels are poor and weather conditions can change visibility in seconds,” said Kirstie-Anne Donoghue, Road Safety Officer for Pembrokeshire
“Pedestrians, runners and cyclists are particularly vulnerable road users and the winter months pose even more hazards than usual,”
“It is vital that people take sensible precautions to reduce the risk of being involved in a collision.”
She said just because you can see the car doesn’t mean the driver can see you.
“To stay safe, always wear reflective hi-vis clothing when walking or riding at night – for example, armbands, sashes, waistcoats, jackets or footwear.
“At night-time, reflective materials can be seen up to three times as far away by drivers as non-reflective materials.”
A torch function on mobile phones could also be useful for pedestrians, she added.
“It’s an easy way of helping motorists spot you in the dark, particularly in rural or poorly lit areas.
“Bicycle lights that are cheap to buy, and brighter than ever, and many cycling accessories come with inbuilt reflective strips that react to car headlights.
“The Highway Code is clear that if you are riding a bicycle at night you must have a white front and red rear light lit. Your bike must also have a red rear reflector, and amber pedal reflectors. White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen.”
Cllr Phil Baker, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said drivers also need to play their part by reading the road ahead and anticipating potential hazards.
“Drive at a speed that allows you to stop in the distance you can see to be clear, and give cyclists and, where there is no footpath, pedestrians plenty of space when overtaking,” he said.
Community
Gentle British Shorthair seeks loving forever home

A BEAUTIFUL and affectionate four-year-old British Shorthair cat is looking for a calm and loving home through Greenacres Rescue in Pembrokeshire.
Maple, described by staff as having a “luxurious plush coat” and a “gentle, affectionate nature,” came into the charity’s care through no fault of her own. With her classic round face, soulful eyes, and teddy bear-like fur, she is proving popular with volunteers at the centre.
Greenacres said Maple would make an ideal companion for someone seeking a calm and elegant feline friend. She enjoys gentle fuss and quiet company and has previously lived harmoniously with other cats.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Maple would thrive in a peaceful environment where she can settle in at her own pace and be treated with the patience and love she deserves. She may be happy to share her home with another gentle-natured feline.”
The rescue centre is based in Pembrokeshire, but rehomes animals across the UK. However, potential adopters are reminded that visits to the centre are essential, and priority may be given to homes closer to the charity’s location.
Anyone interested in adopting Maple is asked to complete an online application form, clearly stating her name: Cat Adoption Form – Greenacres Rescue
Applications are processed Monday to Thursday and are subject to home and vet checks. For more information on the adoption process, visit: Adoption Procedure – Greenacres Rescue
Greenacres thanked all potential adopters for supporting their mission to find loving homes for animals in need.
Could you be the one to give Maple the home she deserves?
Crime
Carmarthenshire man jailed for role in commercial cannabis factory

A MAN who allowed members of an organised crime group to set up a large-scale cannabis factory at his rural property has been jailed.
Martin Evans, 37, appeared at Swansea Crown Court where he claimed to be unaware of the extent of the illegal operation. However, the court heard that by renting out part of his home near Kidwelly, Evans had become a “facilitator” for the criminal enterprise.

During a warrant executed in February under Operation Scotney, police discovered nearly 200 cannabis plants—worth up to £264,100—being cultivated at the property.
Further investigation of Evans’s mobile phone revealed incriminating messages referencing police drones and discussions about increasing heat and humidity to accelerate plant growth, confirming his knowledge and involvement.
Evans was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Another man, Fatjon Xafa, who was actively cultivating the plants, received a 29-week prison sentence.
Detective Chief Inspector Rich Lewis said: “I am in no doubt that Evans knew exactly what was going on at his home. He clearly hoped the rurality of the location would allow the operation to go undetected, and he would have allowed it to continue had we not intervened.”
Police said the bust was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised drug networks operating in west Wales.
Community
Marquess of Milford Haven’s daughter welcomes second child

Joy for royal-linked family as baby boy is born
A NEW member of a family with strong historic ties to West Wales has been welcomed into the world, as Lady Tatiana Mountbatten, the daughter of the Marquess of Milford Haven, announced the birth of her son.

The 34-year-old, who is a second cousin to King Charles III, shared the joyful news with her followers on Instagram on Sunday (Apr 13), posting tender photographs with her newborn, husband Alexander ‘Alick’ Dru, and daughter Elodie, who was born in September 2023.
Lady Tatiana is the daughter of George Mountbatten, 4th Marquess of Milford Haven.
The title “Marquess of Milford Haven” was created in 1917 for Prince Louis of Battenberg, who had previously served as First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy.
Amidst the anti-German sentiment during World War I, he relinquished his German titles and adopted the anglicised surname “Mountbatten.”
The Milford Haven waterway, with its rich maritime history and has been home to a significant naval base and commercial fishing port. The town’s deep natural harbour has been used for naval purposes since the late 18th century, and it played a crucial role during both World Wars.
The naming of the marquessate after Milford Haven reflects the town’s importance in British naval history.
In her post, Tatiana revealed her son’s name – Auberon, affectionately known as ‘Albie’. “March might just have been the best month of my life,” she wrote, reflecting on a peaceful period spent with her young family in the Hampshire countryside, away from the bustle of London.
She described her daughter’s excitement at becoming a big sister and shared a touching image of baby Auberon clutching her finger, alongside family scenes of daisy-picking and garden play.
Tatiana said: “We’ve played, rested, nourished, slept a little, loved a lot and enjoyed every minute of the glorious spring weather… Now it’s time to head back to London and discover what our new normal looks like.”
Local interest in the royal-connected family remains strong, particularly due to the Mountbattens’ association with Milford Haven and their lineage linked to Queen Victoria and Prince Louis of Battenberg.
Followers flooded her post with messages of congratulations. One wrote: “Oh my goodness, my heart is absolutely exploding for you!” Another joked: “When are you buying the first pony?!”
The happy news comes not long after another royal birth, with Princess Beatrice welcoming a baby girl, Athena Elizabeth Rose, in January. Despite being born prematurely, Athena is said to be healthy and thriving.
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