A PEMBROKE DOCK opticians has collected food, toiletries and seasonal supplies to help individuals and families in Pembrokeshire experiencing financial hardship.

The collection, organised by trainee dispensing optician Courtney Hearn, was donated to PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship), a local charity dedicated to providing essential items, including food parcels, clothing and household necessities to those in need.

PATCH also holds an annual Christmas Toy Appeal, which ensures children in need receive gifts, art materials, chocolates and wrapping supplies, bringing joy to families facing challenging circumstances during the festive season.

The Specsavers team contributed food and toiletries, while retail director Ellie Thomas-Wigley and optometrist Andrew Williams purchased wrapping paper and Sellotape, following guidance from PATCH, to support the appeal.

Ellie Thomas-Wigley says: ‘We’re incredibly proud of our team’s generosity and their commitment to helping the community. PATCH plays a vital role in supporting local families facing difficult times, particularly during the festive season, and we’re pleased to contribute to their important work.

‘Thank you to our customers and team for coming together to support those in need at such a critical time of year.’

Since 2008, PATCH has been providing support to Pembrokeshire residents by working with referral agencies such as health workers and social services. The charity’s Basics Bank offers immediate help to those experiencing crises, including job losses, benefit delays, or emergency situations like fire or homelessness.

To learn more about PATCH or to donate, visit their charity shop on Charles Street.
Specsavers Pembroke Dock is open seven days a week. To find out more and book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/pembrokedock.

Additionally, to make eye health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.

A DREAM is set to become reality for Hatice Eltan as she prepares to open Turkish Kitchen Café on Quay Street, Haverfordwest, on February 1, 2025, at 10:00am.

The café promises to bring the vibrant and authentic tastes of Turkish cuisine to Pembrokeshire, offering carefully crafted dishes, aromatic coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere. Open daily from 9:00am to 3:00pm, the café aims to become a hub for both locals and visitors.

Hatice, who moved to Pembrokeshire five years ago with her daughter Eliza and son Deniz, described her excitement: “I’ve always had a passion for cooking and catering, and opening my own café has been a long-standing dream. Pembrokeshire deserves a place where people can experience traditional Turkish food. Many locals love visiting Turkey on holiday, and I want to bring a piece of that experience here.”

The launch event will feature a special food-tasting experience, giving visitors a chance to savour traditional Turkish delicacies such as savoury gözleme, sweet baklava, and refreshing Ayran — a classic yoghurt-based drink. Complimentary samples of Turkish coffee and tea will also be available.

In addition to the tasting, the café will run a raffle where one lucky winner will enjoy a free meal for two, and the first 50 guests will receive a special gift voucher.

Hatice will be joined by her brother-in-law Mustafa Eltan in running the café. Together, they plan to create a warm and inviting space that celebrates Turkish culture and cuisine.

Looking ahead, Hatice has ambitious plans for the café:

“If all goes well, I hope to expand Turkish Kitchen into a full restaurant with extended hours. I already have the necessary licensing to remain open until 3:00am, and I’m excited about the possibilities for the future.”

Hatice, originally from London with Turkish heritage, spoke about her love for Pembrokeshire: “We first visited Pembrokeshire on a weekend trip and instantly fell in love with the community, the beaches, and the slower pace of life. Moving here was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my family.”

Turkish Kitchen Café aims to offer more than just food; it promises an experience — a journey through flavours, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality.

For more information, visit turkishkitchencafe.co.uk.

MORE than three-quarters (79%) of Welsh businesses expect greater profitability in 2025, a significant increase from 69% recorded in December 2023, according to Lloyds’ Business Barometer.

The survey also revealed that 73% of firms anticipate a rise in turnover next year. Of those, nearly a third (32%) predict revenue growth of between six and 10%, while over a quarter (26%) expect even higher gains.

Profitability remains the top priority for 55% of businesses, followed closely by staff upskilling (43%) and productivity improvements (33%). Additionally, 17% of firms aim to enhance their technology, including automation and AI, while 18% are focused on improving environmental sustainability.

To achieve these goals, more than a third (35%) of Welsh businesses plan to invest in staff training, with 29% allocating resources towards research and development (R&D) of new products or services.

The Lloyds Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and has been running since 2002, provides valuable insights into regional and national economic trends.

Sam Noble, Regional Director for Wales at Lloyds, said: “Welsh businesses are looking ahead to the new year with ambitious plans. While uncertainties remain, these strategies will help them achieve growth and strengthen their resilience against potential challenges. As they move forward, we’ll continue to stand by them with our support.”