News
Closing arguments at Swansea Crown Court in James Oulton case
THE CLOSING arguments in the trial of a Haverfordwest primary school teacher accused of sexually assaulting 11 children have been heard at Swansea Crown Court today (Apr 30).
In her closing statement, the prosecuting barrister, Clare Wilks told the jury that they must consider the evidence concerning James Oulton, 34, fairly and remain unemotional.
Ms Wilks described the defendant as “an extremely popular teacher at the school who had ample opportunity to act.”
She told the court how his actions were “deliberate and subtle”, and that James Oulton had “perfected his technique so not to get caught.”
But Defending, QC Chris Clee told the jury that it would be easy to think the “weight of numbers must mean he is guilty” but asked the jury to also consider the numbers of students Oulton has taught throughout his career – 673 pupils.
Chris Clee QC said the 11 children who have made allegations against him amount to just 1.7% of the children he had taught.
He reminded the jury how the burden to prove guilt lies with the prosecution and it is not down to the defendant to prove his innocence.
Mr Clee added that Oulton was cautioned at the start of each interview, and despite the prosecution accusing the defendant of “setting up his defence” and accusing him of “getting more savvy as the interviews went on”, he had no obligation to answer any of the questions put to him in the initial interviews.
He added: “He chose to answer every question and give evidence in this court, he didn’t have to do neither.”
Oulton’s barrister told the jury that DC Evans, the investigating officer in the case, held the view that his client’s primary reason to teach was “to get closer to children, especially girls.”
He told the court how Oulton volunteered all passwords to electronic devices that the police seized.
He said that if the prosecution is right in this case, that the fact Oulton was able to carry out these events in broad daylight without being caught was a stroke of “extraordinary luck”.
Turning to the credibility of the prosecution witnesses, he told the court how ten of the eleven victims had “positive feelings towards James Oulton.”
Responding to the prosecution case that Oulton kept the cards and letters from the children as “some form of insurance or trophy” – he added, it was a “straightforward common sense it was evidence of affection the children felt for James Oulton.”
Clee branded another witness a “bully” saying there was clear collusion between them – as another witness went along with her as she was “scared of her” and said that it “snowballed from there”.
He added: “It is inconsistent, unreliable and not worthy of belief.”
Tackling the accusation made by one of the witnesses that Oulton had a cupboard in his classroom which contained alcohol and party invites for the children, he said these allegations were “entering into the realms of fantasy”.
QC Clee also accused DC Evans of cajoling the witnesses during their interviews, with a police officer asking one child: “Is there anything else? I feel like you’re holding back?”
Speaking of the six defence witnesses who gave evidence in support of Oulton, he said: “They were prepared to come to court and give evidence in support of him.
“By giving evidence that tells you the allegations are not true.”
However, the adult witnesses were not willing to be named in the media, and the defence applied for a press gagging order saying that they would be reluctant to attend court to support Oulton otherwise. The order was granted.
The case will continue Tuesday, May 4.
It is expected that there will be a verdict in the case next week.
Charity
Shalom House adapts to community needs amid financial struggles
A HOSPICE in St Davids is finding new ways to support the community after financial challenges forced changes to its operations. Shalom House, a well-loved facility on Nun Street, has shifted its focus in recent years, balancing healthcare provision with its founding mission.
Established in 2007, Shalom House was originally designed as a five-bed hospice offering respite and palliative care. Its creation was made possible by the donation of the property from Elizabeth de Guise, a novelist with a deep connection to Pembrokeshire. However, rising costs and funding shortfalls have led to significant changes in how the hospice operates.
In late October, the closure of St Davids Surgery prompted Shalom House to repurpose two of its rooms for use by a branch surgery. The facility is now home to a service staffed by practice nurses under Hywel Dda Health Board, ensuring local residents continue to have access to healthcare.
Balancing priorities
While the move has been welcomed by many in the area, it has come at a cost. Shalom House now operates with three respite beds instead of five, a change that has sparked concern among some supporters.
“We had to make a difficult decision,” a spokesperson for the hospice said. “Our primary goal is to serve the community, and this arrangement allows us to do so in multiple ways. The branch surgery provides vital medical care while helping us generate income to keep Shalom House open.”
The hospice continues to offer day-care services to several patients each week, with additional respite care provided as resources allow. Trustees are optimistic that full capacity can be restored in the future, depending on funding.
Community campaign brings hope
Despite the challenges, Shalom House has received overwhelming support from the Pembrokeshire community. A recent campaign, “Save Shalom,” has seen donations increase dramatically, offering a glimmer of hope for the hospice’s long-term future.
Local resident and campaign volunteer, Jenny Williams, said: “Shalom House means so much to so many people. It’s more than a building—it’s a lifeline for families across the county. We’re determined to do everything we can to keep it running.”
Looking ahead
The trustees are exploring new ways to raise funds and expand services, with plans to launch a series of community events next year. They have also expressed gratitude for the continued generosity of local residents, whose donations remain crucial.
“Shalom House has always been about Pembrokeshire’s people,” said the spokesperson. “Every penny donated helps us provide care and support to those who need it most. We’re confident that, with the community behind us, we can overcome these challenges.”
For more information about Shalom House or to make a donation, visit www.shalomstdavids.org.
Entertainment
A Christmas spectacular at St Davids Cathedral delights audience
A CHRISTMAS celebration of music and song enthralled audiences at St Davids Cathedral on Saturday (Dec 14), as the St Davids Cathedral Choir and Vox Angelica presented A Christmas Spectacular. The event, which began at 7:00pm, offered a festive evening of performances set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of one of Wales’ most iconic landmarks.
The concert featured the talented harpist Bethan Semmens, who captivated listeners with her intricate and emotive playing. A Cardiff native, Semmens studied at the Royal College of Music and has performed at prestigious events across the UK and internationally. Her contributions to the evening brought an enchanting touch to the programme.
The night was packed with beloved seasonal pieces, showcasing both choral and soloist performances. Highlights included the timeless Good King Wenceslas, Winter Wonderland, and festive classics such as The Twelve Days of Christmas. The Cathedral Choir delivered stirring renditions under the vaulted ceilings, with carols and arrangements that beautifully resonated throughout the space.
Special moments featured solos by Harriet Pearce and Sophie Cooke, who lent their voices to favourites like There Is No Rose and Balulalow. The audience was further treated to a moving arrangement of A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, performed in harmony with Bethan Semmens’ harp accompaniment.
A medley of carols encouraged audience participation, culminating in a joyful and spirited atmosphere. Families, friends, and visitors joined their voices for classics that brought warmth and festivity to the wintry evening.
The performance concluded with an uplifting recessional, leaving attendees with a sense of seasonal cheer. The Cathedral, adorned with Christmas trees and lights, provided the perfect setting for what many described as an unforgettable musical experience.
The Herald understands that A Christmas Spectacular was a resounding success, with plans already underway for next year’s event.
News
Greyhound racing in Wales: Future hangs in balance as decision delayed until 2025
THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’S decision to postpone a ruling on the future of greyhound racing until 2025 has sparked mixed reactions, with animal welfare groups voicing disappointment and industry representatives welcoming the extended timeline for discussion.
Welfare groups demand urgent action
Animal welfare organisations, including Dogs Trust, RSPCA Cymru, Blue Cross, Greyhound Rescue Wales, and Hope Rescue, have expressed dismay at the delay. The coalition, known as Cut the Chase, has long advocated for an end to greyhound racing in Wales, calling the postponement a missed opportunity to prevent further harm.
Their concerns mirror recent developments in New Zealand, where greyhound racing will be banned by August 2026 due to concerns over injuries and fatalities. Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, stated:
“The call to end greyhound racing in Wales has received overwhelming support from the animal welfare community, Members of the Senedd, and the public, with over 35,000 people signing a petition demanding change.
“It is unacceptable that so many dogs die or are seriously injured every year, all in the name of entertainment. Wales now stands alongside only a handful of countries, including England and Scotland, where this outdated and inhumane practice persists. The Welsh Government must take the only meaningful action to stop this cruelty: end greyhound racing once and for all.”
Public supports a phased ban
A consultation conducted by the Welsh Government revealed that 64.69% of respondents supported a phased ban on greyhound racing. Despite this, officials have opted to extend deliberations, with a final decision now expected in 2025.
Animal welfare groups highlighted troubling figures from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), which reported 359 racing greyhound deaths and 4,238 injuries in 2023 – a 47% increase in fatalities compared to the previous year. Concerns extend to off-track welfare, including reports of poor living conditions, inadequate nutrition, and lack of enrichment for retired greyhounds.
Industry defends its welfare standards
The GBGB has countered criticism by emphasizing welfare improvements at licensed tracks such as Valley Stadium in Wales. Mark Bird, GBGB Chief Executive, said:
“Valley Stadium’s licensing has brought significant welfare improvements, overseen by expert veterinarians and our national network of professionals. Racing greyhounds receive more oversight and protection than many pet dogs across Wales.
“We remain committed to working with the Welsh Government to promote and protect greyhound welfare through effective and proportionate regulation.”
Broader calls for change
The debate in Wales reflects a growing movement to end greyhound racing across the UK and beyond. In Scotland, a Proposed Prohibition of Greyhound Racing Bill aims to outlaw the sport, while New Zealand has committed to a ban, citing ethical concerns.
Decision delayed but debate intensifies
The Welsh Government has emphasized the need for thorough consideration before making a final decision. However, the delay has intensified divisions, with animal welfare groups urging an outright ban and the industry advocating for improved regulation as a viable alternative.
A final verdict is not expected until 2025, leaving the future of the sport – and the welfare of thousands of greyhounds – uncertain.
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