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‘Reach out to friends and family’ says Council Leader

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THIS week’s update from Cllr David Simpson, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council:

‘Hello everyone, I hope you are all keeping well and safe.

‘I’d like to highlight that this week is Mental Health Awareness Week.

‘I’m very aware that the last 15 months has had a huge impact on our lives and, in some cases, our wellbeing.

‘Mental Health can be a hidden issue and we all need to be aware that some people may need some extra support.

‘On a personal level the lockdown restrictions have reminded me of the importance to talk to people and to ensure people are supported.

‘Supporting your friends and family can be as simple as a phone call to say hello. A quick hello can ensure people are ok and managing and can give someone a huge uplift.

“Our communities have done a fantastic job of supporting each other so please, Team Pembrokeshire, continue these efforts.

‘I urge you all to pick up the phone and say hello to your friends and family, as we all need to play our role in everyone’s wellbeing – talking about issues does make a difference.

‘If you are suffering from Mental Health or general wellbeing issues please reach out, do not struggle on your own, your friends and family can help and make a difference.

‘Please also take the opportunity to also view the website at https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week which has much more information and support.

‘I now want to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in last week’s elections.

‘Elections take a phenomenal amount of organisation at the best of times but even more so in a pandemic situation.

‘To all those who ensured the smooth running of the elections process, thank you.

‘Congratulations to all the successful candidates and I look forward to working with them to further improve the lives of Pembrokeshire people.

‘We have now had further updates from Welsh Government and the next phase of the unlocking road map has been unveiled.

‘From Monday, 17th May, indoor hospitality can re-open.

‘Up to six people from six different households will be able to meet indoors in pubs, cafes and restaurants.

‘We have so many fantastic hospitality venues in Pembrokeshire who we know will be giving their customers a big welcome after so long away.

‘The opening of indoor hospitality will be a major landmark in our emergence from the pandemic and towards recovery.

‘While out and about please remember social distancing rules are still in pace, consider your actions on others, remember your footprint has an impact on our communities, so please tread lightly.

‘When you go home, leave with a smile – enjoy your days out, enjoy seeing your families and most importantly enjoy our beautiful county and please support us in keeping Pembrokeshire special – play your part and please be responsible.

‘I want to wish you all a lovely weekend and I look forward to talking to you all again next week through my update.

‘Thank you everyone.’

You can keep up to date with all the Council’s press releases here: https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/newsroom

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Crime

Crown Court backlog at a record high, Victims’ Commissioner warns

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THE VICTIMS’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, has voiced profound concern over the escalating backlog of cases in the Crown Court, which has surged to a record 67,573 outstanding cases. This latest figure not only signifies a 1% increase from the previous quarter but also marks a staggering 65% rise from pre-pandemic levels and a near double increase since June 2019.

Baroness Newlove, reflecting on the dire statistics, emphasized the intolerable delays victims are facing, often stretching to years, before their cases are heard in court. With 27% of all outstanding cases now pending for over a year, the situation has reached a critical point, resulting in unprecedented strain on victims and the frontline services supporting them.

The duration from the receipt to the completion of cases at the Crown Court remains significantly above pre-pandemic figures, showcasing an 82% increase from the end of March 2020 and an 84% rise from the end of June 2019. Specifically troubling is the average completion time for rape cases, which now stands at 393 days, surpassing all previous records and highlighting a 52% increase from before the pandemic.

The Victims’ Commissioner pointed out the growing burden on victim services and the potential for increasing numbers of victims to withdraw from the process due to prolonged wait times. The statistics reveal a 14% victim withdrawal rate post-charge in the latest quarter, coupled with 26% of cases being adjourned on the day of trial, further exacerbating the challenges faced by those seeking justice.

Baroness Newlove criticized the apparent systemic issues within the judicial process, noting that despite a 4% decrease in new case volumes, the backlog continues to rise, with completed cases also experiencing a decline. This situation underscores the critical need for systemic reforms to address the inefficiencies plaguing the court system, ensuring that victims do not continue to suffer from prolonged delays in obtaining justice.

As the Crown Court backlog hits another record high, the call for urgent action to alleviate the pressure on victims and the judicial system has never been more pressing, with justice delayed increasingly equating to justice denied.

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Entertainment

Easter Extravaganza: ‘Into The Woods’ takes the stage in Pembs

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THE FISHGUARD and District Drama Society (FADDS) is set to dazzle audiences with its latest production, “Into The Woods”. Theatre enthusiasts across Pembrokeshire are in for a treat as the show embarks on a captivating three-day run at Theatre Gwaun starting Thursday, April 4th.

The production, which premieres at 7:00pm on Thursday, promises an exciting journey through a modern twist on beloved fairy tales, with additional performances scheduled for the following dates and times:

  • Thursday, April 4th at 7:00pm
  • Friday, April 5th at 7:00pm
  • Saturday, April 6th at 2:00pm and again at 7:00pm

Tickets are swiftly selling out, urging potential spectators to secure their seats promptly by booking through Theatre Gwaun’s official website.

For over three decades, FADDS has been a cornerstone of the local theatre scene, bringing a plethora of productions to life at Theatre Gwaun. Their adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s “Into The Woods” marks yet another milestone, enriching Pembrokeshire’s cultural tapestry. Since its Broadway debut in 1987 and subsequent West End premiere in 1990, “Into The Woods” has been a fixture in the theatre community, even inspiring a Walt Disney film adaptation in 2014.

The story weaves a tapestry of fairy tale quests, exploring the intertwined fates of beloved characters as they venture into the woods, each harboring their own desires and secrets. Questions abound: What binds a cow as white as milk to hair as yellow as corn? Can Cinderella attend the King’s Festival? Will Rapunzel escape her tower? And who is the mysterious figure obsessed with greens?

FADDS promises a show brimming with intrigue, laughter, and the timeless music of Sondheim, delivering a “fast-paced, super fun” interpretation of these classic tales. This amateur production, orchestrated in collaboration with Music Theatre International (MTI), guarantees a magical night out for families and theatre aficionados alike, blending nostalgia with the thrill of live performance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this vibrant take on “Into The Woods” – a theatrical journey where fairy tales and reality collide, revealing the heart and humour of these age-old stories.

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Education

Second Pembrokeshire Chess Tournament celebrates youth and skill

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THE SECOND Pembrokeshire Chess Tournament drew participants from 21 schools across the region, culminating in a day of intense competition and camaraderie.

The tournament, reported by Vicky Brown, saw young chess enthusiasts gather for a day marked by strategic gameplay and exceptional talent. Henry Burton from Redhill emerged victorious, claiming the top spot in a closely contested field. The duo of Steffan Hughes and Huw Holliday, also from Redhill, followed closely in second place, while Osian Griffiths (Ysgol Caer Elen), Bryn Williams (Milford Haven Community School), and Iolo Hughes (Redhill) shared the third place, showcasing the depth of talent present among the participants.

In recognition of outstanding sportsmanship, Carys Callan from Redhill was honoured with the ‘David Pinch Award’, embodying the spirit of fair play and respect that marked the tournament. A special mention was given to Tyler Davison-Hall from Johnston CP School for participating in the Game of the Tournament, further highlighting the event’s competitive yet friendly atmosphere.

The tournament benefitted significantly from the expertise of Ian Eustis from the Welsh Chess Union, who served as Arbiter, ensuring the smooth running of the games. The event was also supported by Martin Jones and Scott Hammett, who took on the roles of stewards, and the Friends of Redhill (FOR), who managed the refreshments, contributing to the day’s success.

The local chess community, including participants and spectators, expressed their appreciation for the organisational efforts that made the event possible. For those interested in furthering their chess skills, the Pembrokeshire Chess Club extends an invitation to meet on Tuesday evenings in Steynton. Martin Jones, contactable at 07884384131, is available for further details regarding membership and participation.

Looking ahead, Redhill is poised to host its next chess tournament on Saturday, 8th June, promising another opportunity for young chess players to demonstrate their skills and passion for the game. The success of this event not only highlights the thriving chess scene in Pembrokeshire but also sets the stage for future tournaments that continue to inspire and engage the youth in the noble game of chess.

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