News

First Minister taken to task over Ed Sheeran Cardiff concert chaos

Published

2 years ago

June 11, 2022

THE WELSH CONSERVATIVES have slammed the Labour Government in Cardiff Bay for failing to plan ahead for major events after the chaos that befell the capital the weekend before last.

When asked by Leader of the Opposition Andrew RT Davies MS about why rail services were not prepared for an influx of visitors to the city – there to see Ed Sheeran and My Chemical Romance at the start of half term – the First Minister said: “On capacity, it is genuinely difficult to expect a train company with fixed assets and a fixed pool of staff to provide those services to turn the tap on in a major way around any sort of event.”

After suggesting the lack of capacity was just something people had to live with, Davies challenged Mark Drakeford over the trains that never arrived at all, coupled with the jammed roads and miles-long tail-backs at a time when roadbuilding in Wales has been banned by his government.

Drakeford added: “Transport for Wales are currently in the process of loaning [sic] two trains from Northern trains [sic].”

He did agree with the Welsh Conservative leader that the lack of information for those experiencing delays at Cardiff rail stations was not good enough and will be taken on board by Transport for Wales.

The events in Cardiff saw 15 mile-long queues on the M4 from the Severn Bridge into Wales, further showing that the Drakeford’s decision to cancel the M4 relief road three years ago after spending £150m on a review he ignored was a mistake.

Commenting afterwards, Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies MS said: “Cardiff is meant to be a destination city, but in order to stand shoulder to shoulder with the other great European cities, we need a modern transport network.

“Sadly, two weekends ago, just two concerts brought the city’s transport routes to a standstill, not only showing that the appropriate infrastructure is not in place, but also that planning around major events is simply not up to scratch.

“It wasn’t just Cardiff that was gridlocked, it was vast swathes of South-East Wales.

“The answers the First Minister, a Cardiff MS, gave today fell short of the ambitions the people of the city have – it is not good enough to simply say there is no possibility of ramping up capacity ahead of major events. We know the influx of people will come, and we should plan accordingly.

“Wales needs and deserves integrated, modern transport infrastructure fit for the 21st Century, not more Labour excuses.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

7 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

20 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

20 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.