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Trial bathing water testing project makes a splash
A TRIAL project is making waves in the way the quality of bathing water is recorded and how that information is presented to those thinking of taking a dip.
Launched during the baking hot weather and at the start of the school holidays, the project run by Pembrokeshire County Council aims to develop an information platform for local people, visitors and activity groups to detail the bathing quality away from Blue Flag beaches.
As an Authority, Pembrokeshire County Council is very proud to have the most Blue Flag beaches in the whole of the UK, and this is testament to the fantastic water quality that we have.
However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that all of the coast is blessed with these conditions and water quality can change on a regular basis
For the project, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Pollution Control Team will take up to six samples, across the period of the school summer holidays.
The team will then provide weekly information on bathing water results, framed against the EU Bathing Water Standards.
Pollution Control Lead Officer, Nathan Miles, said: “To achieve Blue Flag status, it is pretty well known that beaches must meet strict criteria on bathing water quality.
“But we understand that people like to swim right around our coast, not just at Blue Flag beaches, so we thought this trial could provide the bathing water quality information where there’s interest in open water swimming.
“The project is centred around water quality and water safety and linking up with local community councils and interested groups such as the Bluetits Chill Swimmers.
“We are looking for community partners or local councils to develop signage and noticeboards as well as use social media to provide information on water quality and safety in their area.”
Members of the Bluetits were on hand this week to launch the project as Council Pollution Technician Scott Findlay took a sample from Solva Harbour.
That sample will be analysed in the lab and the Bluetits informed of the water quality at the harbour.
Bluetits Chill Swimmers Director Sarah Mullis, said: “We as an organisation believe in giving swimmers the information and tools to increase their knowledge of their local waters in order for them to make choices and take responsibility for their own safety so that they can access all of the benefits that we know open water swimming brings.
“Up until now this has been in the form of short films on rip currents, waves, tides etc. The data that has already come from this water testing scheme, and talking to Scott about what affects the readings has been fascinating, and we are learning new things about the water we swim in every day.
“We intend to share this knowledge with our community of 15,000 Bluetits, so this scheme won’t just help Solva Bluetits, but those worldwide to be aware of what may affect the quality of the waters that mean so much to us.”
Cllr Mark Carter, County Councillor for Solva added: “It is great to see this initiative between PCC and the community of Solva that gives local and visiting open water swimmers the information and confidence to make the most of the beautiful area that is Solva harbour.”
Bruce Payne, Clerk of Solva Community Council said water is the driving force of nature and Solva’s bathing water is precious and must be protected.
He added: “The water testing scheme is very important to the community council. It helps safeguard the water quality for everyone.
“Water sports is also a vital component of village and harbour life. We care about our shared harbour environment and want everyone to be safe and to enjoy the clean seawater of Solva.”
For more information and to get involved in the trial project, contact Nathan Miles on 01437 764551.
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Wanted: Steven Kimpriktzis in connection with drug trafficking operation
DYFED-POWYS POLICE have said they are urgently seeking information leading to the arrest of Steven Kostas Kimpriktzis, aged between 45 and 50, in relation to a significant drug trafficking operation.
Kimpriktzis, an alleged central figure in an Organised Crime Group (OCG), is accused of conspiring to supply Class A controlled substances across Liverpool, Dorset, and Pembrokeshire between May 2021 and March 2022.
The police allege Kimpriktzis’s direct involvement in the orchestration of drug movements that have significantly impacted the regions involved. Standing at approximately 175 to 180 cm (5′ 10″) with a medium build and described as White European in ethnicity, Kimpriktzis has known connections in both Liverpool and Reading and has been spotted in Greece recently.
The Dyfed-Powys Police force is leading the charge in this cross-regional investigation, emphasising the severity of the charges against Kimpriktzis. As part of a larger OCG, his activities have drawn considerable concern, prompting a nationwide alert for his apprehension.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any information regarding Kimpriktzis’s whereabouts or activities. Confidential tips can be relayed anonymously by contacting 0800 555 111. The police stress the importance of community assistance in curtailing the operations of such organised crime groups, which pose significant risks to public safety and wellbeing.
In the ongoing battle against drug trafficking within the UK, the capture of individuals such as Steven Kostas Kimpriktzis represents a critical step in dismantling networks that fuel illegal drug distribution and associated criminal activities. The Dyfed-Powys Police remain dedicated to this cause, urging anyone with knowledge that could lead to Kimpriktzis’s arrest to come forward.
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‘SPARC’ Powering progress for females – launches on International Women’s Day
ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, Pembrokeshire College proudly hosted the highly anticipated launch event of the Sustainable Power, Renewables, and Construction (SPARC) Alliance. This occasion celebrated women and effective collaboration between industry, notably the Alliance members: Blue Gem Wind, Floventis Energy, Ledwood Engineering, Port of Milford Haven and RWE Renewables, local secondary schools, and Pembrokeshire College.
The collective aim of SPARC is to promote gender diversity in these underrepresented industries. Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales, Fay Jones, delivered an empowering address, emphasising the importance of initiatives like SPARC in promoting gender diversity. Wales Office Minister Fay Jones said: “I was delighted to come to Pembrokeshire College on International Women’s Day to celebrate the excellent work that’s been achieved by all the partners in promoting opportunities for young women. Encouraging women into professions like engineering and construction is vital to ensure they have the chance of achieving fantastic well-paid careers in their local area.
It’s great to see the UK Government’s investment in the Swansea Bay City Deal being used for such a brilliant scheme.” The event that was opened by Dr Barry Walters, Principal of Pembrokeshire College, reminding the audience of the current gender gap in the featured sectors and the role we all should play encouraging females into non-traditional roles.
Keynote speaker and trailblazer Jessica Leigh Jones MBE, captivated the audience with her insights into the pivotal role of women in driving innovation and progress in the green economy. A highlight of the event was the SPARC Alliance panel discussion Chaired by the former Minister for the Environment, Sustainability and Housing, Jane Davidson. The highlight was the female ‘Careers’ panel, five female professionals took time out of their busy schedules to inspire the next generation of engineers by answering questions from learners.
The SPARC Alliance investment and the additional funding from the Swansea City Deal, will support school teachers to deliver SPARC engagement activities. Awareness raising, building confidence and interacting with industry will add to unlocking female potential in these underrepresented industries. “Pembrokeshire College and Pembrokeshire County Council extend their gratitude to all partners whose unwavering collaboration and support have brought this transformative initiative to fruition, breaking barriers and building a future filled with opportunities for future generations.” SPARC Lead, Hayley Williams.
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Pembrokeshire man accused of ‘sexual activity’ with stepdaughter
A PEMBROKESHIRE man has appeared before magistrates charged with committing sexual acts against his step-daughter.
The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is accused of engaging in ‘adult sexual activity’ with the girl between January 1, and June 4, 2021.
The acts included sexually touching the child, who was 16 or over at the time of the alleged offences, with his finger.
He faces a total of four charges of engaging in sexual activity with his family member.
No pleas were entered by the defendant when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday morning.
Following a request by the Crown Prosecution Service, magistrates declined jurisdiction in the matter, which will now be heard at Swansea Crown Court. Proceedings will commence on March 28.
The defendant was released on unconditional bail.
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