A MAN walking along Hamilton Terrace just after 10:00am today (Dec 20) spotted loose lead on the apex of the roof of the former HSBC bank, sparking an emergency response.

The man, who noticed the unstable lead capstones, immediately alerted the police. Officers quickly attended the scene and called the fire brigade to address the safety hazard.

Hamilton Terrace, the A4076, was closed as firefighters from Haverfordwest Fire Station used a turntable ladder to access the roof and safely remove the loose lead. The road remained shut for approximately an hour, causing significant traffic delays in Milford Haven.

Among the disruptions, a Tesco lorry returning from the marina was diverted up Dartmouth Street, where it became stuck and had to reverse, narrowly avoiding a collision.

The closure also caused problems for delivery firms trying to access Milford Haven. Many residents expecting Christmas parcels today have had their deliveries rescheduled, creating frustration with only a few days left before Christmas.

Hamilton Terrace reopened after the lead was removed.

POLICE in Pembrokeshire are renewing their appeal for information to locate Darren Markes, 46, from Pembroke Dock. He is wanted in connection with a domestic assault.

Markes is believed to have links to the Portsmouth and Sussex areas.

If you have seen Darren Markes or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact the police through one of the following methods:

• Online: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 101

You can also provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers:

• Phone: 0800 555 111
• Website: crimestoppers-uk.org

Please quote reference number 24*944729 when providing information.

IRISH Ferries’ Isle of Innisfree sustained damage during its first arrival at Fishguard port on Friday, December 20, 2024. The incident occurred as the ferry attempted to dock, resulting in a hole in the vessel’s hull.

The new Dublin-Fishguard route was hastily established in response to the ongoing closure of Holyhead port, which has been shut since early December due to storm damage. Holyhead, the busiest port between the UK and Ireland, is not expected to reopen until January 15, 2025, at the earliest

This closure has caused significant disruption to both passenger and freight traffic, with an estimated 100,000 people typically returning to Ireland for Christmas. The new Fishguard route was intended to alleviate some of this pressure and maintain vital connections between Ireland and Wales.

As the Isle of Innisfree approached Fishguard on its inaugural journey, it encountered difficulties during the docking process. While the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, the ferry sustained a hole in its hull upon contact with the port structures.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the incident. However, the damage has necessitated immediate emergency repairs.

The Herald understands that the ferry operator is currently assessing the damage and carrying out emergency repairs. Vehicles will be allowed to board once the vessel is deemed fit to sail.

This incident highlights the challenges faced by ferry operators in adapting to the Holyhead port closure. As the busy Christmas period approaches, both the Welsh and Irish governments are working closely with commercial ferry and port operators to increase capacity and minimise disruption.

Irish Ferries have been asked for a comment.