MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL is inviting residents to put forward their local heroes for recognition in this year’s Citizens’ Awards.

The annual awards celebrate the efforts of individuals and groups who go above and beyond to make Milford Haven a better place—voluntarily and without any form of payment.

Nominations are now open, and members of the public are encouraged to take a moment to think about those who deserve a special thank you. Whether it’s someone who supports vulnerable neighbours, leads a youth group, organises community events, or simply goes out of their way to help others, the Town Council wants to hear about them.

A spokesperson for the council said: “These awards are a fantastic way to recognise the unsung heroes of our town—the people whose efforts too often go unnoticed. If you know someone who gives their time freely to benefit the local community, we urge you to nominate them.”

Nominations must be submitted by 12:00pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

To obtain a nomination form:

• Email: admin@milfordhaven-tc.gov.wales
• Contact the Town Council via its Facebook page
• Telephone: 01646 692505 to request a postal form

Please note: Awards can only be granted to those working in a voluntary capacity, and previous award recipients are not eligible for nomination.

For inspiration, you can view highlights from last year’s ceremony via Milford Haven Town Council’s Facebook page:
facebook.com/milfordhaventowncouncil/posts/pfbid02f7WhKXhjtDxEqV68ujznDvFX89yhBYe8dQgXtqqY19Yb7bC7SeNYW6Ua42E4Ehevl

The council encourages everyone to get involved and help shine a light on the incredible community spirit that defines Milford Haven.

SCOUTS CYMRU has welcomed a commitment from the Welsh Government to exempt under-18s from paying the proposed visitor accommodation levy in Wales.

The announcement was made during a Stage 1 debate in the Senedd on Monday (Apr 1), as part of discussions on the Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) (Wales) Bill. The Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Mark Drakeford, confirmed that young people staying in lower-rated accommodation “would now be exempt altogether” following a review of evidence submitted during the scrutiny process.

Youth organisations, including Scouts Cymru, had raised concerns that the levy could make it harder for young people—particularly those from low-income backgrounds—to access affordable outdoor learning and development opportunities.

Kerrie Gemmill, Chief Executive of Scouts Cymru, said: “This is a really positive step forward. Ensuring that under-18s are not charged the visitor levy when staying at lower-rate accommodation sends a strong signal about the value we place on youth development and access to the outdoors in Wales.

“We’re grateful that the Welsh Government has listened to the evidence from youth organisations and acted on it. While there is still more to do to ensure the final legislation supports volunteer-led, not-for-profit providers, this exemption is very welcome and will help protect vital experiences for young people across the country.”

Scouts Cymru has also reiterated concerns about the potential administrative burden the Bill could place on volunteers if facilities such as Scout huts, church halls, and community centres are required to register—despite overnight accommodation not being their primary function.

The organisation warns that adult volunteers, who are legally required to accompany children on overnight activities, may also be affected by the levy, even though the children themselves are exempt.

The Bill now moves to Stage 2, where amendments and further guidance will be considered.

ScoutsCymru is calling for clear guidance and exemptions for charitable and volunteer-run organisations—particularly where accommodation plays a supporting role rather than being the core purpose of the premises.

THE PEMBROKESHIRE LIBRARY SERVICE recently took part in the Books Council of Wales ‘Stars of the Shelves’ Initiative – to bring school children into libraries to meet local authors.

Grant funded by Welsh Government, the initiative aims to engage primary school pupils with literature and reading through author-led sessions in local libraries.

Pembroke Dock, Narberth, Milford Haven and Fishguard Libraries all took part and welcomed around 200 children at various sessions during March.

Welsh authors Kerry Curson and Rebecca F John were commissioned to deliver the workshops which were a fantastic chance for learners to interact with professional writers, explore storytelling and foster a love for reading and writing.

Pembroke Dock Community School and Narberth CP School enjoyed “fun”, “interesting” and “inspirational” workshops with Kerry where the pupils created their own stories, learned new vocabulary and felt more confident about their writing afterwards.

St Francis Catholic School, Ysgol Glannau Gwaun and Ysgol Wdig enjoyed hearing about Rebecca’s books and inspiration as well as taking part in the creative writing process and character development exercises and several found themselves wanting to read more.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “Our libraries are more than just places to borrow books and this Books Council of Wales initiative is just one example of the importance of libraries in the community.

“There was overwhelmingly positive feedback from the pupils who took part, and it is fantastic to see our young people fostering enthusiasm for reading and writing.”

Tracey Johnson, Site Coordinator for Fishguard, Newport and St Davids libraries, liaised with the Books Council of Wales and the authors, to organise the timetable of visits.

She added: “It was great to see so many primary age children in our libraries, enjoying themselves and learning in a fun way.

“It’s really important that we help develop the ‘library habit’ of visiting regularly, to help encourage a love of reading from an early age. Libraries are free to join, and library staff are here to help children and parents who visit.”