News

Burst pipe warning from Welsh Water as big freeze looms

Published

4 years ago

February 8, 2021

WELSH WATER has warned its customers to take action to protect against frozen and burst pipes as researchers predict a cold snap bringing plunging temperatures and snow. The Beast from the East 2 is set to bringing freezing cold temperatures to Wales.

Temperatures are expected to plummet below 0°C for most of the UK. On Sunday night it was 2°C at Cardiff Airport, but with a wind-chill making it feel more like -4°C

New research from polling company YouGov found that nearly 40% of people didn’t know how to lag outdoor pipes – which are most susceptible to freezing – and a total of 63% had never attempted this before.

Nearly a quarter of respondents in Wales said they had experienced frozen pipes in their home before, while 16% had experienced a burst pipe – which can cost thousands of pounds worth of damage.

The Met Office said the bitterly cold weather will be caused by strong easterly winds that have battered the country from Ukraine and the Black Sea.

The forecast for Monday is: “Bitterly cold for all. Feeling colder with wind chill in the brisk easterly wind. On Tuesday, cold air continues to flood over the UK, with snow showers and brisk east winds.”

When temperatures drop, the water in your pipes and taps can freeze. Frozen water expands and can crack even in the strongest metal pipe. You may not notice this immediately, and only know you have a problem when the cracked pipe thaws and water starts leaking from it.

Welsh Water offers limited free lagging kits to customers to protect exposed pipes and outdoor taps, which can be found on dwrcymru.com.

Crime

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

Published

2 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

15 hours 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

15 hours 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.