Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

News

Firefighters want justice for Josh after leaked shock report

Published

on

A SHOCKING draft report into the circumstances of the death of a firefighter in Pembrokeshire in 2019 is firmly pointing the finger at senior management, despite two firefighters being dismissed before the conclusion of the criminal investigation.

Multiple members of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS), The Fire Brigade Union and The Fire Authority have contacted this newspaper expressing disgust and grave concerns that action has not been taken to rectify systemic failings which could ‘lead to another death in the future.’

The Herald has been investigating this matter for months, and our team has met with many sources alleging that MAWWFRS are trying to ‘brush their failings under the carpet’ to avoid accountability for their part in the death of Milford Haven Firefighter Josh Gardener. He died in a boat training exercise aged just 35-years-old, on September 17, 2019.

A hard-hitting report published by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) in February 2021, into the circumstances surrounding the death which was labelled ‘avoidable’ blamed “systemic, organisational and procedural failings”.

The MAIB criticised the senior management at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, specifically highlighting Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service documentation and procedures for boat operations were out of date, unclear and presented confusing safety messages to the reader.

At the time of the report, the Fire Brigade Union issued a statement on the findings. In that statement they said: “The issues identified in this report must be addressed and individual firefighters must not be blamed for systemic, organisational, and procedural failing.”

Milford Haven County Councillor, Stephen Joseph, who also sits on the Fire Authority said: “A number of firefighters past and present have raised their concerns with me over this investigation and the failings of the Fire Authority management.

Cllr Joseph who has the fire station in his ward added: “I am becoming increasingly concerned about what I am hearing and reading.

“I haven’t had the opportunity to read the complete draft FBU report however, I have been quoted sections which are quite damning.

“I am very proud to be a serving member of the Fire Authority Panel and their Health & Safety Champion. I will be demanding that the report is brought into the public domain and that those responsible for any mistakes made are held accountable, whatever position they hold.

“Josh Gardener was a friend of mine and I am unhappy about the time it is taking for things to come into the light.

“It upsets me greatly if this coming into the press again is upsetting for Josh’s family, but I feel strongly that we owe it to Josh, his family and other serving firefighters to have the incident fully and correctly investigated and for justice to be brought.”

Josh (centre) with colleagues

A former senior Fire Brigade Union representative added his thoughts on the report, he said: “Having had experience of how it is run, I would agree with the findings – it highlights the common traits exhibited by the service.”

Our sources all tell of a fear about speaking out and highlighting safety concerns. The Herald asked him what members of the service should do to highlight them, he said: “An atmosphere that exists within the service has been cultivated out of fear and intimidation.

“The Fire Brigade Union is always a good place to start to raise concerns”

He added: “A life has been lost, the service is so divorced from the top to the bottom, to those up top this is not the loss of life of one of their own like it is for those on the front line.”

SCAPEGOATS FOR MANAGEMENT FAILIURE

The fire service has terminated the employment of two Milford Haven firefighters because of Josh’s death, yet, no senior management have been held accountable. Allegations that the firefighters have been made scapegoats for failing at the top level have been made.

It is alleged that the two firefighters’ employment was terminated based on their behaviour on the day in question, but why has no one senior been held accountable for their part in the now obvious health and safety failings – which included serious breaches such as not issuing the trainees with helmets.

The Herald asked the service if they think that the sacking of two firefighters was justified based on the findings of the report, and if individual firefighters can be held accountable for their actions, why has the same not been applied to senior members of management. They have refused to comment on that point. A MAWWFRS spokesperson said only: “As investigations by external bodies remain ongoing and a date for a full inquest by the HM Coroner for Pembrokeshire has yet to be set, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time”.

Multiple sources have told this newspaper that members of the service, The Fire Authority and The Fire Brigade Union have brought up the findings in the reports regularly and asked about justice for Josh in senior management meetings. The answer is: “the investigation is ongoing” and “stop asking questions!”.

Serving firefighters have told this newspaper that they will not stop asking questions and will continue to voice their concerns until justice for Josh has been served, and clear lessons have been learnt so no more lives are lost.

THEY KNEW CREWS WEREN’T COMPETENT

Since the MAIB report was published, the Herald has been given possession of a document which shows that concerns were raised by the crew at Milford Haven about their abilities to operate the ribs, just six weeks prior to Josh’s death.

In a form, presented to the Assistant Chief Fire Officer at the time, Iwan Cray, on August 7, 2019, it says: “Skill sets have eroded with regards to the large rib. Are we likely to be upskilled to be able to perform our duties within our risk area, at present we can’t?”

As per the service’s safety protocol, if crews are not competent to use any apparatus, or their qualifications are out of date, then it is pulled out of circulation until competency is regained. We asked the service, why wasn’t the rib taken off service until crews training were back to the standard that was required to operate them safely. No reply was given.

The foreknowledge of the lack of competency was mentioned within the draft report. It says: “Another example of an apparent dichotomy arises with a different ACO, who, six weeks before Josh died, was formally notified of the lack of competence in boat crew in Milford Haven.”

It added: “However, despite the extensive ignorance, MAWWFRS knew that crews were not competent.”

Rib: Craft taken away for examination (Pic MAIB)

INTERNAL INVESTIGATION

An internal investigation was launched by MAWWFRS following Josh’s death, however the officer in charge of the investigation was the same officer who the concerns were raised to about the shortcomings in the crew’s ability to operate the ribs. In another blow to the credibility of the internal investigation, our sources have confirmed that the same principal officer is also the Head of Health & Safety for the service.

The Herald has asked the fire service, based on the conflict of interest that the documents highlight, if they felt that the appropriate person was appointed to conduct said investigation. No comment from the fire service on this point either.

The draft report refers to this claim, it says: “He then became the corporate lead on the investigation into Josh’s death but perplexingly no mention was made of this ACO’s foreknowledge of the lack of competence of boat crews.”

HEALTH & SAFETY FAILURES

The Herald has been presented with significant amounts of material, which suggests that the service is dragging its heels in dealing with Josh Gardener’s death.

Between two reports, one by the MAIB and the draft report leaked to this newspaper we can now publish that the main failures which lead to Josh’s death are:

  • No risk assessments carried out
  • The operation of the boats did not adhere to the requirements of the local standard operating procedures
  • No-one was in overall charge of the training and familiarisation activities, so they were not properly managed, briefed or communicated between the crews of both boats
  • No ppe given so nobody was wearing helmets on the rib
  • Rescue 1 (the big rib) did not have the correct number of members on board to meet the minimum occupancy required to operate it
  • The standard operating procedures for all fire and rescue service boats in the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were insufficient in content and contained incorrect information
  • Hand held radio were issued without checks
  • No lookouts were in place 
  • The Fire and Rescue Services in the United Kingdom did not operate boats to a common standard or code of practice when not employed on flood rescue duties
  • Instructors qualifications were years out of date
Funeral: Hundreds lined the streets to pay their respects (Pic M Cavaney)

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

The criminal investigation into the death of Josh involved multiple agencies under the Work Related Death Protocol, which has been run by Dyfed-Powys Police, MAIB, The HSE and The Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The MAIB released a report into their findings into the death of Josh in February 2020.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed their involvement in the criminal investigation concluded at the end of February and their findings have been reported to The Health & Safety Executive and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency.

A Police spokesperson said: “Our investigation has concluded and been passed on to the Health and Safety Executive and Maritime and Coastguard Authority.”

A HSE spokesperson said: “Following the conclusion of Dyfed-Powys Police’s investigation, primacy for the continuing criminal investigation under the Work Related Death Protocol is joint between the Health and Safety Executive and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.  The investigation is continuing.”

An MCA spokesperson said: “A joint investigation by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Health and Safety Executive is currently ongoing. It would be inappropriate to comment at this time.”

Charity

Dogs Trust shares vital advice for a dog-safe Easter

Published

on

Owners urged to keep chocolate and dried fruit out of paw’s reach

WITH Easter just around the corner, Dogs Trust is reminding pet owners to keep chocolate and other harmful foods away from their four-legged friends.

Both Dogs Trust Bridgend and Dogs Trust Cardiff are raising awareness of the dangers seasonal treats can pose to dogs, particularly chocolate and certain dried fruits, which are toxic and potentially fatal if ingested.

Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that dogs cannot metabolise effectively. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, excitability, drooling and in severe cases, seizures or fatal heart problems.

Likewise, dried fruits including raisins, sultanas, currants and grapes can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. That means hot cross buns, Simnel cake, and other fruity Easter fare should be kept well away from canine companions.

If your dog eats any of these, the advice is clear: contact your vet immediately.

Dogs Trust’s Easter safety tips:

  • Never feed dogs chocolate or dried fruits, and make sure children and visitors know the dangers too.
  • During Easter egg hunts, keep dogs away from the area or supervise them closely on a lead.
  • Secure your bins to prevent dogs from scavenging leftovers.
  • Don’t leave treats on kitchen counters or low tables where curious paws can reach.
  • Teach the “leave it” command, so your dog learns to walk away from harmful items.
  • Watch out on walks – dogs can easily pick up discarded chocolate or fruit-filled snacks.

Victoria Phillips, Veterinary Surgeon Manager at Dogs Trust, said:
“Our dogs are part of the family, so it’s natural to want to include them in Easter celebrations. But while chocolate eggs and hot cross buns are treats for us, they can make dogs seriously ill – and in some cases, can be fatal.

“That doesn’t mean they have to miss out entirely. Why not plan a dog-friendly Easter hunt using safe, healthy treats such as carrots, strawberries, cucumber or broccoli?

“You could even hide toys or treats in empty Easter egg boxes and encourage your dog to sniff them out – it’s a great way to bond and keep them mentally stimulated.”

For more advice on keeping dogs safe and healthy over the holidays, visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice

Continue Reading

Crime

Newcastle Emlyn man admits to attempted murder of baby

Published

on

A MAN from Cwm Cou, Newcastle Emlyn has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of a baby.

Rhydian Jamieson, aged 28, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Apr 10), where he admitted to trying to kill the infant, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

The offence took place at an address in Y Ferwig, near Cardigan, just before 10:15pm on Wednesday, January 15.

Police responded to reports concerning the welfare of a child, and the baby was taken straight to hospital.

Jamieson was arrested at the scene and later charged.

At an earlier hearing, concerns had been raised about whether he was fit to stand trial. A provisional date had been set for September 1, but this has now been cancelled following his guilty plea.

Judge Paul Thomas KC remanded Jamieson into custody and said he would be sentenced on May 27.

Caroline Rees KC appeared for the prosecution, with John Hipkin KC defending.

Continue Reading

News

Steel nationalisation talks ‘unfair on Wales’, says Plaid

Published

on

PLAID CYMRU has accused the UK government of failing to support Welsh steel communities equally, after it emerged that nationalisation is being considered for British Steel’s Scunthorpe plant—but was ruled out for Port Talbot.

The party has renewed its call for public ownership of the Port Talbot steelworks following comments from Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who said nationalising British Steel remains an option to save jobs at its loss-making Scunthorpe site.

Plaid’s economy spokesperson, Luke Fletcher MS, said: “If it’s good enough for Scunthorpe, why wasn’t it good enough for Port Talbot?”

In September last year, Tata Steel closed its two blast furnaces at Port Talbot with the loss of 2,800 jobs. The closure followed a £500 million support deal with the UK government to help the firm transition to greener steel production—but nationalisation was not considered.

Fletcher, who represents south-west Wales, told BBC Radio Wales: “We were asking for nationalisation to be looked at until we were blue in the face. Labour promised that having governments in Cardiff and Westminster would save Welsh steel—but in the end, the deal they offered wasn’t much different to the Conservatives’.”

Back in 2016, the Conservative government said nationalisation was not an option for Port Talbot. The £500m package announced last year under Labour was broadly the same as the one proposed by the outgoing government.

Plaid’s Swansea spokesperson, Dr Gwyn Williams, said nationalisation could have allowed Wales to adopt hydrogen-based steelmaking, like Tata is doing in the Netherlands.

“Tata are using green hydrogen at their Dutch site but have refused to do the same in Wales,” he said. “Plaid believes Wales deserves world-class green technology to build a sustainable economy for future generations.”

On Thursday, Tata said it had taken a major step forward in decarbonising its operations at Port Talbot, signing contracts with Clecim and ABB Limited to deliver a new pickle line—specialist equipment used in modern steel processing.

Meanwhile, British Steel’s Chinese owner, Jingye, has said the Scunthorpe site is losing £700,000 a day. Around 2,700 people are employed there and the plant is home to the UK’s last blast furnaces.

Talks to try to secure the future of the site are expected to resume this week, with the UK government reportedly offering to buy coal to keep the furnaces running. On Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that “all options” are being considered—including nationalisation.

Carrie Bone, UK steel editor at Kallanish Commodities, told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast that both Tata and British Steel were in similar situations—facing major losses and needing to modernise.

She noted that Tata accepted the £500m offered by government, while British Steel reportedly turned it down and asked for £1 billion.

“You can understand why the government might be hesitant to offer that much,” she said. “It’s not clear why nationalisation wasn’t considered for Tata, but there are thousands of jobs at stake—and the optics of letting the UK’s last blast furnace close are politically very difficult.”

The UK government has been approached for comment.

Continue Reading

Crime10 hours ago

Newcastle Emlyn man admits to attempted murder of baby

A MAN from Cwm Cou, Newcastle Emlyn has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of a baby. Rhydian Jamieson, aged...

News13 hours ago

Steel nationalisation talks ‘unfair on Wales’, says Plaid

PLAID CYMRU has accused the UK government of failing to support Welsh steel communities equally, after it emerged that nationalisation...

Crime14 hours ago

Teen drug dealers admit handgun plot — Mercedes crash youth facing jail

TWO teenagers have now fully admitted being involved in cocaine dealing and conspiring to obtain a handgun — including a...

Education2 days ago

Teaching assistant forced to act after child left in locked toilet cubicle for hours

Boy shut himself in to avoid assembly A CLASSROOM assistant used a 20p coin to unlock a toilet cubicle and...

Crime2 days ago

Haverfordwest man remanded over strangulation charge

A HAVERFORDWEST man has been remanded in custody after denying a string of serious domestic abuse allegations, including the intentional...

News2 days ago

Port issues urgent statement following Milford Haven laser incident

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has issued an urgent public statement about the serious risks and legal consequences associated with...

Crime2 days ago

Milford man denies GBH assault on ex-partner’s 70-year-old grandfather

A MILFORD HAVEN man has appeared in court accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm on his ex-partner’s 70-year-old grandad. Tommy...

News3 days ago

Baby number two on the way for critically endangered rhino at Folly Farm

PREGNANCY is always a reason to celebrate, but when it involves a critically endangered species like the Eastern black rhino,...

Business4 days ago

Floating wind farm boom could bring jobs bonanza to Pembrokeshire

Milford Haven among ports shortlisted for turbine assembly as £1.4bn Celtic Sea energy project nears final stage PEMBROKE PORT in...

Crime4 days ago

Carmarthenshire kidnap victim speaks out: ‘I thought I was going to die’

THE MUSIC producer lured to West Wales and brutally assaulted in a staged kidnap plot has spoken publicly for the...

Popular This Week