Community
Milford Haven: Christmas Together was another great success
‘AMAZING’, ‘fantastic’ and ‘brilliant’ were just some of the comments expressed at the end of this year’s Christmas Together event at Pill Social Centre, Milford Haven.
Now in its tenth year, Christmas Together, founded and run by Cllr Guy Woodham, brings companionship to those who would otherwise be on their own on Christmas Day. Cllr Woodham commented, ‘It has been a real worry all the way up to Christmas Day that Covid restrictions would be introduced that would prevent the day going ahead however, while further restrictions were introduced, our risk assessments confirmed that with appropriate measures the event could go ahead, and I’m delighted that it did and that everyone who attended really enjoyed the day.’
This year, thirty-five individuals attended which while much lower than recent years, when over 100 people have attended, meant that social distancing and other Covid measures were much easier to manage, ‘I was very pleased that everyone followed the guidance given, with those who could, undertaking lateral flow tests that morning and all understanding the importance of keeping everyone as safe as possible by wearing face coverings and respecting social distancing as much as possible,’ said Cllr Woodham.
While the day was different to those held in previous years, the event still involved a quiz, bingo and three course festive lunch and the opportunity for those attending to socialise with those seated on their table. One guest commented, ‘I can’t express enough how much today has meant to me. I was dreading being on my own on Christmas Day and never imagined I would have had so much fun and made new friends. If I’m on my own again next year, I will definitely be attending Christmas Together’. Another guest explained that having been recently bereaved they too were not looking forward to Christmas this year, but had also had a really enjoyable day and would recommend going to Christmas Together to anyone who may unfortunately find themselves in the same position in the future.
Colin Sharp, Chairman of the Pill Social Centre and on the Committee of Christmas Together stated, ‘While a lot of work goes in to making the day such a success, it is all worth it when you get to talk to those attending and realise how much it means to them. The whole Committee are delighted that the event went ahead and those who attended did not need to be alone on Christmas Day, for some, the loneliest day of the year.’
Cllr Woodham concluded by thanking the volunteers who attended and the many individuals who had supported the event this year with special thanks to Darren Briggs (Ascona Group) and Milford Haven Town Council.
Community
Storm Éowyn upgraded to ‘danger to life’ amber warning for Wales
THE MET OFFICE has upgraded its weather alert for Storm Éowyn to an amber warning, signifying a “danger to life” as strong winds and heavy rain approach Wales and other parts of the UK. The warning is in effect from 6:00am to 9:00pm on Friday, covering northern Wales, Northern Ireland, northern England, and southern Scotland.
Strong winds and widespread disruption
The amber alert warns of winds reaching 60-70 mph inland and up to 90 mph in exposed coastal areas and high ground. The Met Office advises that flying debris poses a risk to life, while power cuts, travel disruption, and property damage are highly likely.
Road, rail, air, and ferry services are expected to face delays and cancellations. Homes and businesses may also sustain structural damage as the storm progresses.
Areas in Wales under amber warning:
- Conwy
- Denbighshire
- Flintshire
- Gwynedd
- Isle of Anglesey
Alongside the amber alert, two yellow warnings for wind cover all of Wales on Friday, lasting from midnight Thursday to midnight Friday. A separate yellow warning for rain is also in effect from midnight to 9:00am on Friday, predicting 15-25 mm of rain across much of Wales and 40-60 mm in higher elevations. The heavy rainfall may lead to surface water flooding in some areas.
A Met Office spokesperson said: “Storm Éowyn will move across the northwest of the UK on Friday, clearing northeast by Friday night. This will bring a spell of very strong west to southwesterly winds, with a brief reduction in wind strength as the storm’s centre passes over certain areas. Winds will then increase rapidly before gradually easing later on Friday.”
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor updates as the storm approaches.
Community
Mid and West Wales Fire Service backs Register My Appliance Week
MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is supporting Register My Appliance Week (January 20–26) to help households stay informed about appliance safety and product recalls.
Millions of UK households are unaware of critical safety updates for their appliances, with over 40 million large appliances still unregistered. From brand-new purchases to second-hand machines, registering appliances ensures owners are alerted to any safety issues, extending their safe usage.
In the past year, MAWWFRS responded to 163 incidents involving white goods. Home Fire Safety Manager Wayne Thomas said:
“We all value how appliances have transformed our lives, but it’s essential to register them. Doing so is quick, free, and ensures you’re informed if a safety repair is needed. Just a few minutes spent registering can help you enjoy your appliances safely.”
The Register My Appliance portal, run by AMDEA, connects users with over 70 leading brands and accepts registrations for both new and older appliances.
Community
Young Musician Competition: Winners shine in prestigious event
SIX talented young musicians showcased their skills during the first round of the 2025 Young Musician competition, held at Bethesda Chapel in Narberth on Wednesday, January 15. The event, organized by the Narberth & Whitland Rotary Club, highlighted the exceptional abilities of these enthusiastic performers.
The evening’s instrumental category winner was harpist Alaw Elisa, representing Ysgol Bro Preseli. The vocalist winner, Max Morris, also represented Ysgol Bro Preseli, impressing the audience and judges alike with his outstanding performance.
Certificates were presented to the winners by Rotary Club President Paul, who expressed his gratitude to everyone involved. “A heartfelt thank you to the competitors, their teachers, parents, and the dedicated volunteers at Bethesda Chapel who made this event a success,” he said.
The Rotary Club looks forward to seeing these young musicians continue to excel as they progress to the next stages of the competition.
Talented winners: Alaw Elisa (Harp) and Max Morris (Vocalist) proudly represent Ysgol Bro Preseli. (Pic: Narberth & Whitland Rotary)
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