News

Helping the world to hear

Published

11 years ago

August 5, 2014

hearing-aid Hearing aid specialists Hearing Aid Solutions have joined forces with the Lions Clubs of Britain and Ireland to support a unique and successful project helping those with hearing loss in some of the world’s poorest nations which has been going for more than 25 years. Hearing Aid Solutions, who have centres in Havefordwest, Fishguard and Carmarthen, have collected old but working devices for use overseas for many years. They are supported by the Association of Hearing Healthcare Professionals (AIHHP.org), of which Hearing Aid solutions is the only Welsh member. Hearing aids collected locally are sorted, cleaned, checked and repaired by prisoners at the Sound workshop in Frankland prison in County Durham. These are then forwarded on to many countries across the world, which recently included; Kenya, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, India, Moldova and Zimbabwe. Many organisations are involved with the distribution of the Hearing aids including Sound Seekers, Rotary International and the Salvation Army. This has become a truly global and inter-organisational project, and in addition to helping prisoners to learn new skills as part of their rehabilitation, it is making a real difference to people who would otherwise have no way of improving their hearing loss. Last year, over 56,000 aids were donated from across the British Isles. Those that are not serviceable yet can be salvaged have their parts sold on again, which in turn assists in raising money for hearing projects, but many more are needed. All Hearing Aid Solution centres in south and west Wales are now accepting old hearing aids, hearing aid equipment and assistance devices. Martyn Scott, managing director of Hearing Aid Solutions and secretary of AIHHP said: “We are proud to be part of this very worthwhile scheme, working closely with the Lions clubs for such a long time. There is no greater feeling than receiving a letter from a child in Sri Lanka to say that she can now go back to school and pass her exams just because she can hear again. Letters are also received from adults across the world who have managed to go back to work and support their families. These letters highlight how this really is an invaluable scheme”. Recycled hearing aids are giving the gift of hearing to disadvantaged and the poor across the world, helping people to lead a dignified and fulfilling life. A full list of hearing aid solutions centres across the region can be found at www.hearingaidsolutions.co.uk

Crime

Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl

Published

6 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027

A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.

Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.

The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.

Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.

Crime

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

Published

2 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Staff Writer

Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.

Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.

Local Government

Mayor visits Milford Haven Library Christmas event

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE MAYOR of Milford Haven, Cllr William Elliott, paid a visit to Milford Haven Library on Tuesday morning to attend its festive Mince Pie and a Cuppa event.

The event brought together library staff and local residents, with the Mayor thanking staff for their work supporting the community throughout the year. During the visit, Cllr Elliott also spent time speaking with residents who had come along to the event or were visiting the library to borrow books.

Milford Haven Library is part of the Pembrokeshire Libraries service, which provides access to books, information, and community activities across the county.

The Mayor wished residents a Merry Christmas at the close of his visit.