Community
White Christmas ‘more likely than usual’ say weather experts as bookies cut odds

BOOKIES across the country are slashing their prices on a white Christmas after experts said, a white Christmas “is more likely than usual” this year. Better dust off the snow boots…
We all know what it’s like trying to predict the weather. One minute it’s raining, the next it’s dry. Well, according to long-range weather forecasters a white Christmas is more likely than usual this year.
While it may only be October, and autumn is only just beginning, bookies have slashed the odds of snow on Christmas Day.
This comes after weather experts warned the UK of freezing temperatures over the coming days.
According to the Met Office, the last white Christmas was back in 2010, and so for snow-lovers, this latest news will be welcome.
Coral’s spokesperson John Hill said: “The odds say it will be all white on the big day. Big chills are coming early this year.”
Of course, it is far too early to know for sure whether snow is forecast for the lead up to Christmas.
For now, however, cold whether is here and it looks like it is going to stay.
British Weather Services meteorologist Jim Dale recently told The Express: “The cold weather will set in at the end of the weekend (Oct 2) and looks like it isn’t going anywhere quickly.
“It is looking cold through this week and possibly into next weekend, with the risk of fresh snowfall over the mountains.”
He added: “However, even further south, the cold is going to be very noticeable, and there could even be the risk of the odd frost. It is fair to say the seasons are about to make a dramatic transition to something much colder.”

We can thank a band of high pressure for this year’s white Christmas (if it happens) as the band of pressure allows cold air to seep down from the Arctic causing colder than usual weather for us here in Wales.
Community
Castle Ward Pupils Lead Anti-Social Behaviour Art Mural Project

HAVERFORDWEST HIGH VC SCHOOL welcomed a visit from County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who expressed his full support for the pupils’ efforts in tackling anti-social behaviour through an innovative Art Mural Project.
Councillor Tudor, representing the Castle Ward, highlighted the significance of the project, noting the area’s past struggles with anti-social behaviour in central commercial zones. “Engaging with pupils to address this issue through art is an extremely exciting venture,” he said.
The project has received a boost with £750 in funding secured from the Youth Bank initiative. Councillor Tudor commended the Youth Workers for their successful funding application, describing it as “a great achievement.”
The mural, spearheaded by pupils from the Youth Room and Haverfordwest High VC School, aims to inspire and engage the community while addressing a vital issue. “This exciting and innovative project will undoubtedly capture the imagination of those involved and reach out to all concerned,” Councillor Tudor added.
The initiative is set to bring a creative approach to community engagement and highlight the power of art in fostering positive change.
Photo caption: Castle Ward inspiration: Councillor Thomas Tudor supports the Art Mural Project (Pic: Suppled)
Community
Tips for coping with Mental Health challenges this Christmas

CHRISTMAS is often hailed as the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it can bring stress, loneliness, or financial strain, impacting mental health in various ways. Mind Cymru has shared advice to help those struggling during the festive season.
Why Christmas Can Be Challenging
The holiday season can feel overwhelming for numerous reasons:
- Stress and Expectations: The pressure to celebrate while managing personal challenges.
- Difficult Memories: Reflecting on the past or worrying about the new year.
- Financial Strain: Rising costs can make the season harder to navigate.
Sue O’ Leary, Director of Mind Cymru, explains:
“Christmas is a time to celebrate, but it can also magnify feelings—sometimes in a challenging way. It’s important to remember it’s okay to feel this way, and there is support available.”
Tips for Coping
Looking After Yourself
- Be patient with yourself—it’s normal to find Christmas difficult.
- Set boundaries and say no to unhelpful activities.
- Take time out to focus on non-Christmas-related things.
- Remember: the season won’t last forever.
Talking to Others
- Let people know if you’re struggling and how they can help.
- Access online communities like Mind’s Side by Side for support.
- Communicate your preferences for festive activities.
Managing Relationships
- Plan responses to uncomfortable questions in advance.
- Agree on budgets or schedules beforehand to ease tensions.
- Create distance if you’re with people you’d rather avoid.
Planning Ahead
- Prepare items that help you feel comfortable, especially in unfamiliar settings.
- Avoid triggering places or activities if possible.
- Make a list of services with their Christmas opening hours.
- Ensure you have enough medication to last through the holidays.
- Plan something enjoyable for after Christmas to look forward to.
Where to Find Support
If you’re struggling, help is available:
- Mind Helplines: Visit Mind Helplines (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day).
- Side by Side Online Community: Available 24/7 at Side by Side.
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 (freephone). The Welsh language line is open 7pm–11pm daily.
- SHOUT Crisis Text Service: Text SHOUT to 85258, available 24/7.
- Coping with Money Worries: Visit the Mind website for advice.
Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect, and it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. Mind Cymru reminds everyone that support is always within reach.
Community
Cones now gone as Johnston gas works finally completed

WALES & WEST Utilities has announced the successful completion of essential gas network upgrades in the Johnston area of Pembrokeshire.
The project aimed to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of gas to homes and businesses, supporting the community’s needs for generations to come. In collaboration with Pembrokeshire County Council, the company implemented traffic management measures to minimize disruption during the work.
Adam Smith, who managed the project for Wales & West Utilities, expressed gratitude to local residents for their patience and highlighted the significance of the upgrades:
“We are pleased to finish this work and would like to thank the local community for bearing with us as we carried it out.
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across the wider area. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner, or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe, reliable, and there when you need it.
“This work was essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future.”
Wales & West Utilities provides gas emergency and pipeline services to over 7.5 million people across Wales and the southwest of England. If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, they urge you to call 0800 111 999 immediately for assistance at any time of day or night.
-
Top News3 days ago
Pembrokeshire man jailed after repeatedly punching pregnant wife
-
Top News2 days ago
Police investigate dogs seen persistently chasing sheep on Pembrokeshire airfield
-
News6 days ago
Thai mother’s harrowing 999 call: “I felt like a robot, I felt twisted, I killed my son”
-
Entertainment6 days ago
Reef’s 30th Anniversary Tour hits Tenby in 2025
-
News4 days ago
Dyfed-Powys Police launches attempted murder investigation
-
Crime6 days ago
Thai mother sentenced to hospital order for killing son
-
News7 days ago
Council ‘s £34m budget gap ‘the most challenging since its inception’
-
Community7 days ago
Man, 83, dies in property fire near Llanybydder