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Dai thanks emergency services that helped save his life

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A PEMBROKESHIRE dad-of-three has thanked the emergency services that helped save his life.

In February Dai Davies was getting ready for bed when he suddenly collapsed and had a cardiac arrest.

Dai’s wife Taryan and son Caleb, 18, helped save his life as they performed CPR on Dai whilst waiting for an ambulance to arrive.

When the paramedics arrived, Dai’s heart was in an abnormal rhythm and not beating normally. The paramedics took over resuscitation, delivered two shocks and the second shock brought his heart back into a normal rhythm.

When the Wales Air Ambulance Charity helicopter arrived with its overnight critical care team – Dr Matt O'Meara, Critical Care Practitioner Marc Allen and pilot Nobby Norris – Dai started to come around and became agitated and wasn’t breathing effectively.

They rapidly assessed him and found his oxygen levels were low and needed to take over his breathing. To do this they gave him a general anaesthetic and then placed him on a ventilator to breathe for him.

The procedure is delicate, complex and time-critical. It is only possible outside of a hospital environment through the Wales Air Ambulance and the fact that they have experienced consultants on board.

It is one of the many emergency department-standard treatments that the Charity is now able to deliver at the scene of an incident – improving the chances of survival and recovery.

Once the on-scene treatment was complete, Dai was airlifted directly to the cardiac centre at Morriston Hospital in Swansea.

The flight from his home in Neyland to hospital took just 25 minutes by air, a journey that would have taken approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by road.

Speaking of the lifesaving service, Dai said: “I am forever grateful to the ambulance service and the Wales Air Ambulance for the work they did and to get me to the hospital as quickly as they did. I really appreciate everything they’ve done for me. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be here.”

The father-of-three was a keen runner and cyclist before he was taken ill, reflecting on whether there were any signs that could have indicated a potential problem, Dai said: “I had a pain in my back whilst I was refereeing a match about five years ago. I had MRI scans and physiotherapy and continued to live with the on-off pain. Since it happened, I’ve been reading up on cardiac arrests and these symptoms were a big indicator.”

The learning support assistant, at Haverfordwest High School, underwent surgery to have three stents put in and was discharged from hospital a few days later.

He said: “I’m feeling okay. I’ve had three stents put in, lost 10 kilograms in weight through cardiac rehab and cut out all the nice things. My wife has also bought me a new peloton bike to continue my fitness at home. My children, Chloe, Caleb and Aidan, all notice a change in me since the cardiac arrest, they think I’m more placid now.”

Throughout his recovery Dai received expert guidance and help by having personal training from cardiac rehabilitation instructor Dave Braithwaite. Dai is now looking forward to the future.

Jo Yeoman is a patient liaison nurse who works in partnership with the Wales Air Ambulance Charity. She said: “We are delighted to see that Dai is on the road to recovery. Dai’s story demonstrates the vital chain of survival, from CPR, defibrillation and then critical care.

Taryan and Caleb were incredible and the partnership work between the Wales Air Ambulance and Welsh Ambulance Service medics ensured that Dai had the best possible care before reaching the specialists at Morriston Hospital.

“The Wales Air Ambulance Charity introduced an overnight helicopter in December 2020, making it a 24/7 service. The Charity needs to raise £8 million every year to maintain the 24/7 operation and Dai’s story highlights the importance of having an air ambulance service that runs during the night as well as the day.”

Christian Newman, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Locality Manager in Pembrokeshire, said: “In a cardiac arrest, every second counts, and the CPR started by Dai’s wife and son gave him the best possible chance of survival. Our joint efforts with Wales Air Ambulance colleagues, and later the care that Dai had from the specialists at Morriston Hospital, just goes to show how important partnership working is to a patient’s care. We wish Dai all the very best on his continued recovery.”

There are several ways that the public can continue to support the Wales Air Ambulance Charity. These include online donations, signing up to the Charity’s Lifesaving Lottery or by coming up with innovative ways to fundraise. Further information can be found via www.walesairambulance.com. 

Alternatively, a £5 text-message donation can be made by texting the word HELI to 70711.

Crime

Police offer advice after 60 reports of stolen quad bikes from farms

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DYFED-POWYS POLICE is advising the rural community to make sure security measures are in place to protect quad bikes and other farm equipment, in response to a spate of thefts.

There have been over 60 reports of stolen quad bikes across the force in 2024.

Farmers and other owners of quad bikes are reminded to be vigilant of suspicious vehicles and people in their community and to report any concerns to police.

Dyfed-Powys Police has acquired 150 SelectaDNA Rural Kits to support their efforts in combating rural crime. These advanced DNA asset-marking kits will be used to offer free property marking services to farmers, helping them protect their valuable equipment and machinery.

In addition to property marking, our Rural Crime Team officers, who are also qualified Crime Prevention Tactical Advisors (CPTAC), will visit farms to conduct comprehensive crime prevention audits. These audits are designed to ensure farms have the best security measures in place to deter criminal activity and safeguard their livelihoods.

The SelectaDNA Rural Kits use a unique DNA solution that can be applied to tools, vehicles, machinery, and other valuable assets. This marking is virtually invisible but can be detected under UV light, providing an indisputable link between stolen property and its rightful owner. This has proven to be a powerful deterrent against theft and an invaluable tool in recovering stolen items.

Rural communities are often targeted by criminals due to their remote locations and the high value of farming equipment.By offering free property marking and crime prevention visits, Dyfed-Powys Police aim to empower farmers with effective tools and advice to protect their assets and reduce the risk of crime.

Sergeant Paul Roberts from our Rural Crime Team, said: “I ask that local farmers and other quad bike owners take appropriate action to minimise the opportunities of these thefts occurring. This includes removing keys from ignitions after use and locking barns or outbuildings wherever the vehicles may be kept.

“I’m aware that thefts of quad bikes and farming machinery causes disruption to farmers’ work, as well as the financial implications, and I would like to reassure the public that police are thoroughly investigating these matters.

“I encourage anyone living in rural communities to remain vigilant to this type of theft, and to report any suspicious vehicles or behaviour to police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The Rural Crime Team will be attending marts across the force, where community members can bring items such as tools, machinery, and bikes to be marked.

Farmers can also arrange a visit from our Rural Crime Team to mark equipment and conduct a security audit by emailing [email protected]

Visit our website for more information and advice about rural crime and what prevention measure you can take – https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/

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Family pays tribute to ‘budding artist’ after tragic loss

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THE FAMILY of a 14-year-old girl who died on Friday (Nov 15) has paid tribute to a “budding artist, rugby player and social media lover.”

Seren Jenkins, from Tycroes, Ammanford, tragically passed away following a medical emergency at Ammanford Rugby Club.

In a heartfelt statement, her family said: “We as a family are devastated by the loss of Seren.

“She was a loving daughter, big and little sister.

“Seren lived her short life to the full and was a budding artist, rugby player and social media lover.

“Seren was loved by all who knew her and no doubt will also be remembered for her sense of humour.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the emergency services at the scene and everybody for the GoFundMe page donations for Seren, where proceeds will likely be donated to various asthma services, the Wales Air Ambulance, and a possible memorial for her friends to remember her.

“We would also like to thank people for their kind words and support at this horrific time, but would now like to ask for this time to grieve in private.”

A GoFundMe page set up in Seren’s memory has received widespread support, reflecting the community’s shock and sadness at her loss.

Seren’s family described her as someone who brought joy to all who knew her, with a zest for life and a talent for art and rugby. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and laughter.

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Teenager’s death not linked to bullying or social media, says coroner

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A “KIND, strong” teenager who tragically took her own life was not driven to her actions by bullying or social media, the Pembrokeshire Coroner has concluded following a five-day inquest.

Megan Evans, aged 14, was found in her home in Milford Haven on February 7, 2017. Described by her family as “a kind and beautiful soul,” Megan was remembered for her intelligence, thoughtfulness, and the love and laughter she brought to her home.

Her death prompted a significant examination of the pressures faced by teenagers today, particularly concerning bullying and the influence of social media. However, Pembrokeshire Coroner Paul Bennett stated there was no evidence to suggest these factors played a role in Megan’s death.

Coroner’s findings

Dyfed-Powys Police’s digital crime investigation unit analyzed Megan’s social media activity and found “no evidence of targeted abuse or bullying directed at Megan.” The coroner also reviewed the school’s anti-bullying measures, which included assemblies, PSE lessons, and an intranet reporting tool.

“Pupils knew what route they could take should bullying arise,” said Mr. Bennett. “That does not mean that pupils did avail themselves of those options.” He added that perceptions of bullying could vary widely, stating that “bullying to one may be banter to another.”

The inquest heard that Megan had been upset by incidents at school, including one five days before her death. However, Mr. Bennett found no link between these events and her decision to take her own life. He also ruled out other factors such as reprimands about her uniform or concerns about her father’s health as contributing to her actions.

“Megan Catherine Evans died as a result of self-suspension, having intended to take her own life. The decision to do so was not influenced by bullying or social media,” Mr. Bennett concluded.

Family’s heartbreak

Megan’s family expressed profound sadness over the coroner’s findings. Earlier in the week, they pledged to honor her legacy by continuing to fight for kindness and love.

“She is missed more than we could ever express,” they said. “She made the world a better place just by being in it.”

However, Megan’s mother, Nicola Harteveld, took to social media to voice her anger and frustration with the coroner’s conclusions.

“It’s utterly heartbreaking and beyond disgusting to see a conclusion that tries to blur the lines between bullying and banter,” she wrote. “Megan is dead—she clearly did not take it as banter. How is it acceptable to claim that such words don’t amount to targeted bullying or abuse?”

Her comments have sparked widespread support online, with many echoing her concerns. One local woman commented: “Banter—it most certainly is not. Those words kill. What has this life become when so-called professionals see no wrong in this type of behavior?” Others called for accountability, suggesting the case should be subject to judicial review.

Megan’s death sent shockwaves through the Milford Haven community. Tributes poured in after her passing, and her story became a rallying point for discussions on mental health, bullying, and the pressures faced by young people. Milford Haven School has since emphasized its commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for pupils.

Headteacher Jane Smith said in a statement: “Megan’s death was a tragedy that deeply affected everyone at our school. We continue to work tirelessly to ensure all students feel supported and to address any concerns they may have.”

Local organizations have also stepped in, launching campaigns to promote mental health awareness and kindness. A vigil held in Megan’s memory shortly after her death drew hundreds of attendees, many of whom highlighted the urgent need for change.

Expert perspectives on bullying and banter

The distinction between bullying and banter, highlighted by the coroner, has drawn criticism from experts and advocates. Child psychologist Dr. Sarah Davies noted: “For some young people, what may seem like lighthearted jokes can have devastating emotional impacts. We must listen to their experiences and validate their feelings rather than dismissing them as misunderstandings.”

Mental health charity Mind Cymru echoed these concerns, urging schools and communities to take every report of harmful behavior seriously. “Words have power, and the way we address this issue has consequences for how young people perceive support systems around them.”

The tragedy of Megan Evans has reignited conversations about how to protect young people from harm and foster kindness both online and offline. Megan’s family remains steadfast in their commitment to honoring her memory, calling for accountability and cultural change.

“She deserved so much more,” said Nicola Harteveld. “We will continue to fight for her and for others who are struggling.”

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