THE DIVISIONS within Neyland Town Council deepened further this week after a controversial attempt to block an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) requested by two councillors.

Councillors Brian Rothero and David Devauden formally requested the EGM on December 4, following the council’s decision to cancel its scheduled meetings on December 2 and December 9. According to Standing Orders, an EGM can be convened by two councillors if the chairman or mayor fails to act on a written request within seven days.

As such, the EGM was arranged for Tuesday, December 17.

“The standing orders were followed to the letter, and all relevant Welsh Government laws were adhered to,” said Councillor Steve Thomas.

However, just two hours before the meeting was due to begin, Neyland Town Council announced on social media that the EGM was not lawfully convened and would not be recognised as an official meeting. The council also disabled comments on the post, sparking further controversy.

Despite the council’s position, Councillors Rothero, Thomas, Devauden, and Steve Campodonic attended the meeting, alongside five members of the public. Notably absent were the mayor, Councillor Peter Hay, and councillors Ash Phelan, Ellen Phelan, Mike Harry, Simon Hancock, Angie Thomas, Alison Richards, and the clerk, Libby Matthews.

“It’s an absolute disgrace that they haven’t attended,” Councillor Thomas said during the meeting. “They are aware of the questions that were going to be asked of them, so this is a total show of cowardice.”

The EGM was called amidst growing concerns about transparency within the council. The agenda included serious allegations such as:

• Mocking Remembrance Sunday attendees: Claims that two councillors had mocked former servicemen at Neyland’s Remembrance Sunday service.
• Community Hub losses: Allegations of an £82,000 loss at the Community Hub over two years.
• Christmas Fayre controversy: Claims that the council jeopardised this year’s Christmas events by suggesting online that the Christmas Fayre had been cancelled.
• Misuse of social media: Allegations that Mayor Peter Hay used social media inappropriately, bringing the council into disrepute.

“These issues directly affect the people of Neyland, and they have every right to know what’s happening,” said Councillor Rothero.

“This council’s lack of transparency is shocking. If the Hub is losing this much money, how much longer can it survive? I’ve been asking these questions for months, but the answers are being withheld.”

Public frustration has also grown, with residents airing their grievances online.

“There is clearly a divide here,” commented local resident Jessica Hatchett. “I’m fed up with all the drama.” Frank Rowland added that the division had become “more like the Grand Canyon.”

Speaking to The Pembrokeshire Herald, Mayor Hay defended the council’s stance, claiming the correct procedure for calling an EGM had not been followed.

“It was not an official town council meeting,” he said. When asked to clarify what the correct procedure entailed, the mayor declined to comment.

The next meeting of Neyland Town Council is scheduled for January 6, and Councillor Rothero urged residents to attend.

“We need as many locals as possible to show up so we can finally get answers to our questions,” he said.

THE UK LABOUR GOVERNMENT has ignited controversy by refusing to compensate the 3.8 million Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaigners affected by changes to the state pension age. The decision has drawn fierce criticism from opposition figures and campaigners, who accuse Labour of breaking election promises made to these women.

The WASPI women are campaigning because they believe they were unfairly impacted by changes to the state pension age, which were poorly communicated and left many born in the 1950s financially unprepared. The sudden shift from receiving pensions at 60 to later ages caused significant hardship, as many were unable to adjust their retirement plans in time. They argue the changes disproportionately affect them due to limited financial opportunities earlier in life, and the lack of transitional arrangements or compensation exacerbates the harm caused. WASPI women seek fair redress for the financial and emotional distress they have endured.

Andrew RT Davies, Senedd Member for South Wales Central and former Welsh Conservatives leader, condemned the decision. Speaking to The Herald, he said: “This decision shows what a bunch of shameless opportunists Labour are. Many of the Labour great and good, including Eluned Morgan, said their party would compensate WASPI women when they were trying to get votes, and now haven’t kept up their end of the bargain.

“People across Wales will see this decision and conclude that they cannot trust Labour again.”

The controversial decision

The announcement follows a long-standing campaign by WASPI women, who argue that the government failed to notify them adequately about changes to the state pension age. These changes left many women facing financial hardship.

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) previously recommended compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 per affected individual. However, the Labour Government has rejected providing financial redress, citing financial constraints.

Key points from the decision include:

• Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall described compensation as “unfair and poor value for taxpayers’ money.”
• Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the move, claiming most women were aware of the pension age changes and suggesting the reforms had “significant awareness.”
• Ministers argued there was no evidence of “direct financial loss” and that compensation could cost up to £10.5 billion, which they deemed disproportionate.
• The government plans to introduce an action plan addressing issues raised in the Ombudsman’s report, aiming for clearer communication in future pension reforms.

Backlash from campaigners

The WASPI campaign group condemned the decision as “bizarre and totally unjustified.” A spokesperson said: “This is a devastating blow for the millions of women who have been waiting for justice. It raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to fairness and accountability.”

Liberal Democrat Welsh Affairs Spokesperson David Chadwick MP called the decision a “day of shame” for Labour.

“The new government has turned its back on millions of pension-age women who were wronged through no fault of their own. Ignoring the Ombudsman’s recommendations is disgraceful.

“For years, Liberal Democrats have pushed the government to fairly compensate WASPI women. Today’s heartless decision cannot be allowed to stand, and we will press ministers to give those affected the fair treatment they deserve.”

Political ramifications in Wales

In Wales, where Labour has traditionally held strong support, the decision has caused outrage among affected women.

“We trusted Labour to stand up for us,” said a WASPI campaigner in Cardiff. “They promised us compensation, and now they’re turning their backs. How can we ever trust them again?”

Andrew RT Davies warned of potential long-term political consequences. “Labour’s actions send a clear message to voters: when push comes to shove, they cannot be trusted to deliver on their promises,” he said.

Financial and social impact

The refusal to compensate exacerbates the financial struggles faced by many WASPI women. Campaigners argue the decision undermines their financial stability and fails to acknowledge the harm caused by the sudden changes.

“This isn’t just about money,” said another campaigner. “It’s about fairness. Many of us lost years of financial stability and retirement dreams. That’s not something you can sweep under the rug.”

Next steps for campaigners

The WASPI group vowed to continue fighting for justice, with plans for legal challenges and further demonstrations to keep the issue in the public eye.

As Labour faces backlash, particularly from older voters, the decision could have significant repercussions in the next general election, especially in battleground areas like Wales. The plight of WASPI women remains a stark reminder of the challenges facing today’s pension system.

NEW research has revealed that two of the top five beaches to visit in Wales this winter are right here in Pembrokeshire.

The outdoor experts at GO Outdoors rated and ranked Wales’ best winter beach walks based on average rainfall, temperature, daylight hours, popularity, and visitor reviews. The results highlight Whitesands Bay and Marloes Sands as standout destinations for a festive season stroll.

WHITESANDS BAY Ranked second overall, Whitesands Bay near St David’s scored an impressive 8.50 out of 10. The beach is celebrated for its fine white sands and stunning views of the Welsh peninsula. During the winter months, the beach becomes a haven for dog walkers as restrictions are lifted, and visitors can take advantage of facilities including toilets and an on-site cafe.

MARLOES SANDS Coming in third place, Marloes Sands earned a score of 7.50 out of 10. Known for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic views of Skokholm and Gateholm Island, the beach offers a quieter alternative during the winter months. Visitors can explore the Marloes Peninsula Beach Walk, a 4-mile circular route that highlights the best of the area’s natural scenery. The surrounding area also boasts cosy accommodation options, such as Gupton Farm Surf Lodge.

Calum Jones, outdoor expert at GO Outdoors, said: “Although the cold weather may cause people to stay inside, there is no better time to explore the UK than the winter months. As crowds disperse, visitors to beaches often find themselves with miles of coastline to themselves. Some beaches remove car parking charges, and local eateries offer discounts during the off-season months.

“I would recommend wrapping up in the colder months, wearing base layers, and investing in a good waterproof jacket to ensure you can enjoy these beaches no matter the weather.”

THE TOP FIVE BEACHES

1. Rhossili Bay, Glamorgan – 9.26/10
2. Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire – 8.50/10
3. Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire – 7.50/10
4. Three Cliffs Bay, Glamorgan – 7.31/10
5. Dunraven Bay, Glamorgan – 6.93/10

With Pembrokeshire featuring twice in the rankings, it’s clear that the county’s stunning coastline continues to draw visitors year-round. For those looking to enjoy a Boxing Day beach walk or a peaceful winter escape, Whitesands and Marloes Sands are two perfect options.