News

Remembering those lost in Covid-19 pandemic, one year on from first lockdown

Published

4 years ago

March 22, 2021

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL will remember all those lost and all those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic tomorrow.

County Hall in Haverfordwest will be lit in yellow on Tuesday, 23rd March – marking one year since the first UK lockdown was introduced.

The lighting up will link with national commemorations taking place on the same day.

Pembrokeshire County Council Leader, Cllr David Simpson, said: “I wish to pay my personal condolences and pass on the condolences of the Council as a whole to all those in Pembrokeshire who have sadly lost a loved one as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Our thoughts also go to those who are still recovering and living with the effects of Covid-19.

“I wish to take this opportunity to pay tribute to all those who have been working so hard, often in extremely difficult circumstances, to keep us safe.

“While reflecting on the year that has passed, lighting County Hall in yellow also symbolises hope for the future. We have been through so much but better times do lay ahead.”

Council Chairman, Cllr Simon Hancock, said: “I add my deep condolences to everyone who has lost a loved one throughout the pandemic.

“Lighting up County Hall will be a poignant moment to consider and reflect upon everything that has happened over the last year.

“Everyone has sacrificed so much and we have been through some dark times together. However, as we enter spring it feels like the darkness is beginning to lift and we push forward together once more.”

Pembrokeshire County Council Interim Chief Executive Richard Brown said those who been affected by the pandemic were in his thoughts.

Mr Brown added: “This year has been one that has tested each and every one of us to our limits.

“It has also tested us an Authority and I wish to thank our staff who have worked above and beyond. I am so very proud of the way our staff have responded to an entirely new set of challenges and continued to keep services running wherever possible.

“I’d also like to thank so many of Pembrokeshire’s residents who despite finding it frustrating and challenging, have complied with the restrictions placed on us in order to combat the pandemic.

“It has been very hard for many people and we want you to know that we are very grateful to you for abiding by the rules. Because of your sacrifices – not seeing your families, not making unnecessary journeys – the rates of Covid-19 in Pembrokeshire have decreased dramatically. Thank you.”

The First Minister has announced that there will be a National Coronavirus Commemorative Event broadcast on BBC One Wales and S4C at 5pm on 23rd March.

Business

Pembroke Dock opticians fundraises to support local families

Published

9 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A PEMBROKE DOCK opticians has collected food, toiletries and seasonal supplies to help individuals and families in Pembrokeshire experiencing financial hardship.

The collection, organised by trainee dispensing optician Courtney Hearn, was donated to PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship), a local charity dedicated to providing essential items, including food parcels, clothing and household necessities to those in need.

PATCH also holds an annual Christmas Toy Appeal, which ensures children in need receive gifts, art materials, chocolates and wrapping supplies, bringing joy to families facing challenging circumstances during the festive season.

The Specsavers team contributed food and toiletries, while retail director Ellie Thomas-Wigley and optometrist Andrew Williams purchased wrapping paper and Sellotape, following guidance from PATCH, to support the appeal.

Ellie Thomas-Wigley says: ‘We’re incredibly proud of our team’s generosity and their commitment to helping the community. PATCH plays a vital role in supporting local families facing difficult times, particularly during the festive season, and we’re pleased to contribute to their important work.

‘Thank you to our customers and team for coming together to support those in need at such a critical time of year.’

Since 2008, PATCH has been providing support to Pembrokeshire residents by working with referral agencies such as health workers and social services. The charity’s Basics Bank offers immediate help to those experiencing crises, including job losses, benefit delays, or emergency situations like fire or homelessness.

To learn more about PATCH or to donate, visit their charity shop on Charles Street.
Specsavers Pembroke Dock is open seven days a week. To find out more and book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/pembrokedock.

Additionally, to make eye health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.

Entertainment

Body slamming entertainment at the Torch Theatre!

Published

9 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

FROM Port Talbot to Llanelli and Porthcawl to Lampeter, the Superstars of Welsh Wrestling are on the road around the country and are getting ready to rumble! They’ll bring their live body slamming family entertainment show to the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, for a one-night extravaganza that you won’t want to miss!

Since its establishment in 2005, Welsh Wrestling has cemented its status as the number one wrestling promotion in Wales, running top quality wrestling shows all over the country in some of the most prestigious venues and theatres. Throughout each year the Superstars of Welsh Wrestling perform in front of several thousand fans, guaranteeing each paying customer of all ages a fun, action-packed, family night out.

Witness the wrestling extravaganza at the Torch that’s guaranteed to get children (and adults) screaming and cheering for their favourite wrestler and making memories that last a lifetime. Pop down to the Torch and witness the glamour and chaos in this showcase of entertainment and athleticism in a memorable family night out.

The Welsh Wrestling Facebook page has information on its Wales tour with positive feedback from several audience members with one being quoted as saying:

“What a fantastic night. My two grandsons loved every minute of the show. A great show designed with families in mind. I will highly recommend this to all friends and family. Thanks for a great evening!”

Welsh Wrestling will be live at the Torch Theatre wrestling ring on Sunday 23 February at 5pm. Ticket prices: Family: £45. Adult: £15. Child: £12. For tickets phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

Crime

Police issue update following incident at Tenby multi-storey

Published

2 days ago

January 3, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed this morning that they are investigating a collision on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park in Tenby, at around 4pm on Thursday, January 2.

The collision, police said, involved a grey Nissan Qashqai and a young child.

The child remains in a critical condition in hospital.

The family are being supported by specially trained officers.

One man, aged 33, has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury through dangerous driving, drink driving, and drug driving. He remains in police custody.

Police issued a statement saying: “This is a tragic incident and is a live investigation.

“We ask that you do not speculate the circumstances and allow our officers to carry out their enquiries.

Anyone with information or dashcam footage that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to us, either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

Quote reference 25*6238”