Community

Pupils send messages to the future

Published

10 years ago

August 1, 2014

MILFORD HAVEN pupils went back to the future last week, imagining themselves in 25 years time, as part of a project to celebrate the big switch on for power at Liddeston Ridge Solar Park. The students were set the task of tackling climate change and transporting themselves into the future to consider what life will be like for them as adults living near the Port of Milford Haven. Some pupils wrote letters to themselves and predicted what their future careers may be – from footballers to lawyers and shop-keepers. The messages have been sealed and buried in two time capsules at the Liddeston Ridge Solar Array to be opened in 25 years time. The project coincided with the official opening of a flagship Solar Photovoltaic Project that has been established at Liddeston Ridge, Milford Haven, capable of powering up to one thousand homes. Jessica Duckworth, energy projects co-ordinator at the Port of Milford Haven, has been working directly with Milford School. She said “Giving local schools a chance to learn about renewable energy and environmental awareness, is a key long term strategy for this project. Liddeston Ridge Photovoltaic Array provides an opportunity to show them first-hand how the sun can be used to generate ‘green’ electricity.” The students spent the morning at the solar park and heard from the project team, including taking a look at the hitech behind-the-scenes systems that keep the site operating. A film of the project has been produced which is available on the Port’s website. Geography teacher and head of R.E. Gareth Williams, said: “This experience has proved really worthwhile for our learners who have gained knowledge of new technology, energy-generation using solar power and also started to consider themselves as adults in 25 years time. The letters and posters generated by the students have shown that our young people have great hopes for the future and an understanding of the challenges they will face and for that we are most grateful to the Port of Milford Haven for facilitating this project”. Tim James, energy development manager at the Port said: “As a trust port in the energy sector, we are diversifying and looking at opportunities in the renewables industry to ensure that, as energy markets shift, we continue to provide benefits to the local economy. “This project is so much more than a solar farm; we are committed to investing in young people’s education and understanding of these challenges. Today’s young people are growing into a society that faces serious resource and climatic challenges. Through having a ‘part of the solution’ resource they can visit to get tangible experience on, we hope they can build on the work of the current pioneering generation and come back to this site in 25 years’ time in a society that is well on the way to sustainability”. The five-megawatt Photovoltaic Array covers 28 acres, holds 20,000 panels and represents a significant investment by the Port of Milford Haven. It’s been built with high regard for the environment using construction techniques that can be reversed with minimal impact at the end of the project’s life. The ambitious habitat management plans will also transform the land into an ecological site of local significance during and at the end of the project.

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

16 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.

A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.

Community

Milford Haven’s heartwarming ‘Christmas Together’ event another success

Published

16 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN came together once again on Christmas Day for the annual ‘Christmas Together’ event, a cherished tradition that has been running since December 2012.

Organised by Mayor Cllr William Elliott and his consort Lloyd Jones, alongside Cllr Colin Sharp and the dedicated Christmas Together Committee, the event provided warmth, community spirit, and festive cheer to those who might otherwise spend the day alone.

Volunteers played an essential role, with special thanks extended to Claire and her kitchen team, who prepared and served a delicious Christmas meal for all attendees. Milford Haven Town Band added a festive soundtrack to the day, while support from Milford Haven Fire Station and numerous volunteers ensured everything ran smoothly.

The event, which aims to combat loneliness during what can be a difficult time of year for many, was described as a resounding success. The organisers expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who donated money, items, and their time to make the day special.

A spokesperson for the event said: “As another year closes, we would like to thank all those that made Christmas Together 2024 so amazing. Great day, great company, and so good to see the community working together.”

Special recognition was also given to Marble Hall Mini Market for their kind donation of a festive hamper.

The Christmas Together raffle added an extra layer of excitement to the day, with generous donations from supporters.

A special thank you was extended to Mariam Dalziel and the team from South Hook for kindly donating an Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet as one of the raffle prizes. Other prizes included a hamper of wine, a tower of temptation (chocolates and Prosecco), chocolate tub hampers, and many more.

Preparations for the event began well in advance, with invitations being posted on Saturday, 26th October 2024. The dedicated team behind this effort included Leanne from Milford Haven Post Office, Mayor Cllr William Elliott, Cllr Guy Woodham (Founder and Chair of Christmas Together), and Cllr Colin Sharp (Committee Member and Chair of the Pill Social Centre).

The event once again highlighted the strong sense of community spirit in Milford Haven, with attendees leaving with full hearts and warm smiles.

Merry Christmas to all from the Christmas Together team!

Community

Heartfelt Christmas message from Tenby’s Mayor

Published

17 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE MAYOR of Tenby, Councillor Dai Morgan, has delivered a warm and heartfelt Christmas message to the community.

Cllr Morgan praised the town’s ‘resilient and united’ spirit, reflecting on the ‘kindness and generosity’ that have defined Tenby throughout the year. He expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering community support that continues to make the town ‘a truly special place to call home.’

Acknowledging the challenges many families face this year, including the ongoing cost-of-living pressures and rising energy costs, Cllr Morgan encouraged residents to embrace the core values of the festive season: peace, compassion, and hope.

“Christmas is a time to come together, to reflect on what truly matters, and to share moments of joy and hope for a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

The mayor extended his heartfelt thanks to those who work tirelessly to keep the community safe and supported over the festive season. This included the police, RNLI, health services, fire crews, HM Coastguard, carers, and all frontline workers.

He also highlighted the vital contributions of Tenby’s voluntary organisations, who continue to bring comfort and joy to those who may feel isolated or face hardship during the holidays.

“Without the dedication and compassion of our voluntary groups, our town would lose so much of its heart. Their efforts make a real difference, and they deserve our gratitude and support every single day,” Cllr Morgan added.

Reflecting on the year gone by, he shared how humbled he felt meeting so many inspiring individuals who contribute to the town’s rich tapestry of community life. Looking ahead to 2025, he expressed optimism and a renewed sense of gratitude for his family, friends, and colleagues.

Cllr Morgan concluded his message with warm wishes for the season:

“May this Christmas bring you moments of happiness, peace, and togetherness. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a hopeful New Year.”