News

Plaid want 1,000 litres heating voucher to help off-grid Pembrokeshire households

Published

12 months ago

October 11, 2022

PLAID CYMRU politicians have reiterated calls for the UK Government to provide greater support for ‘off grid’ Pembrokeshire households, pressing for a roll-out of a voucher scheme that would provide 1,000 litres of heating oil for homes not connected to the gas grid.

The calls have been made in Westminster by Plaid Cymru’s Ben Lake, Member of Parliament for Ceredigion – a county where 74% of properties are not connected to the mains gas grid.

The proposed scheme would allow households to purchase 1,000 litres of heating oil or equivalent volume of liquid propane gas (LPG) which would reflect a “commensurate level of support” to that provided for households connected to the mains gas grid.

During the mini-budget in September, the Conservative Government revealed proposals for a £100 payment to be support households reliant on heating oil – a sum which has been described by Cefin Campbell, Plaid Cymru regional Member of the Senedd for Mid & West Wales as “pitiful”.

According to estimates, 41% of Pembrokeshire properties are currently not connected to the mains gas grid – comparing with a Wales average of 19%. Such households are reliant on alternative heating sources, including oil, biomass and LPG gas – which, unlike electricity, are not subject to a price cap, and therefore liable to fluctuating prices.

At current prices, a voucher worth 1,000 litres of heating oil (the predominant source of heating for off-gas-grid homes in Wales) would cost £890.90.

Certas Energy estimates that the average household in the UK uses around 27,000 kWh of energy per year, which equates to around 1,800 litres of heating oil. 1,000 litres would therefore be enough to support most families using heating oil through the winter and should be replicated next year if prices have not fallen.

Cefin Campbell MS, who previously called on the Welsh Government to provide greater support for off-grid households said:

“As winter approaches, and the cost-of-living crisis intensifies, it’s clear rural households across Pembrokeshire are likely to be disproportionally impacted by surging heating prices.

The Tories in Westminster have detailed their plan to help households connected to the mains gas grid, but we still await clarity on the pitiful £100 support payment that will be offered to those not connected to the mains gas grid. Meanwhile, in Pembrokeshire many households will also fall short of the necessary criteria to gain additional fuel support announced by the Welsh Government.

As many families face the unenviable choice between heating and eating, now is the time for the UK Government to pull-up their socks and act to support rural off-grid households, and such offering of a 1,000 litre voucher would provide comfort and support to so many at a time of growing uncertainty.”

Plaid Cymru’s Ben Lake MP added:

“It is unacceptable that in an advanced economy such as that of the UK, thousands of families will be unable to afford to heat their homes this winter.”

“Plaid Cymru is proposing a voucher scheme for households to purchase 1,000 litres of heating oil or equivalent volume of LPG to heat their homes this winter. That would represent a commensurate level of support to that already offered to households covered by the Energy Price Guarantee.

“Households that are not connected to the mains gas grid are mostly found in rural and deprived post-industrial areas of Wales. They already face higher costs due to poor insulation, poor transport infrastructure, and poor local amenities. To further punish those households with a substandard support package is immoral.

“We are facing a bleak winter. While the UK Government chooses to look the other way, Plaid Cymru is providing positive solutions to help families keep warm.”

News

Count down is on for the opening of new venue HANGAR in Milford Haven

Published

10 hours ago

September 27, 2023

Luke Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN’S entertainment scene has been taken to new heights with the highly anticipated opening of HANGAR! This extraordinary venue promises an unparalleled experience for all attendees, setting a new standard for event spaces in the area.

Located at Thornton Industrial Estate, HANGAR boasts an impressive 5000 square feet of space. Inside, visitors will find a fully stocked bar, catering to their beverage needs, and a remarkable 6-meter by 3-meter LED screen that is guaranteed to leave them mesmerised. The sheer scale and technology of this LED screen make it a one-of-a-kind attraction in Pembrokeshire, setting HANGAR apart from any other venue, but the little things haven’t been forgotten with plenty of heating and seating across the venue.

“Milford Haven is undoubtedly experiencing an upward trajectory, and HANGAR is far more than just an ordinary event space,” said Steve Bartram, Project Co-ordinator and popular local musician.

“We have really kept the local community in mind, the venue’s location has been meticulously selected to guarantee minimal disruption for residents of the town while ensuring easy accessibility for all visitors to HANGAR from Milford, Neyland, Pembroke and beyond” said Steve

Organisers have expressed to not wait too long to experience this limited-time gem! HANGAR will only host a handful of exclusive events this year, making securing tickets a priority before they disappear!

GRAND OPENING: The Big All-Day FanZone Area + Oktoberfest Extravaganza – Saturday, 7th October

As the Rugby World Cup action continues to heat up, the party at HANGAR keeps going strong! The Fan Zone area will be alive with the vibrant sounds of

Throughout the day, visitors can catch THREE thrilling home nations rugby games on HANGAR’s spectacular 6 by 3-meter LED video wall, complete with comfortable seating for the ultimate viewing pleasure. Live music performances during half-time breaks will keep the spirit alive and kicking.

Hungry attendees can indulge in authentic German street food served by specialised traders, perfectly complemented by a selection of traditional German beers to enhance the atmosphere.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! After the rugby matches, Oompah Cymru, Wales’ finest Oompah band will take to the stage promising an unforgettable Oktoberfest experience for all attendees leading lively dancing and crowd participation, creating an atmosphere that Milford Haven won’t forget.

🎟️ Don’t miss out on this event! Secure your tickets now at: https://tinyurl.com/mu348sys or you can pay on the door.

UP & COMING SHOWS:

QUEEN TRIBUTE NIGHT – 2nd December

FLAMINGO BINGO – 16th December

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HANGAR FACEBOOK: https://tinyurl.com/ud4z2sjb

Health

Baby loss remembrance service resumes at Withybush Hospital

Published

12 hours ago

September 27, 2023

Tom Sinclair

THE ANNUAL baby loss remembrance service will return on Thursday 12 October 2023 at St Luke’s Chapel in Withybush hospital in Haverfordwest at 7pm.

The ‘Forget Me Not’ service coincides with Baby Loss Awareness week (9-15 October) and is arranged by Midwifery and Bereavement teams and led by the Spiritual Care Department (Chaplaincy).

The service has long been a source of comfort for parents and families and provides an opportunity for people to reflect and to come together to pay respects and write a message in a safe space.

Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “This service of remembrance is an important moment for parents and families who have been affected by the very sad experience of babies who have passed away.

“Infant and pregnancy loss is a very lonely grief. This space is a time to gather and remember precious little ones whether the loss was recent or in the more distant past.”

In recognition of Baby Loss Awareness week, Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli, Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthen and Bronglais Hospital, Aberystwyth will have pink and blue lights in the Chapel/Quiet Room. The week culminates in a ‘Wave of Light’ on 15 October, which is recognised across the world.

A candle (battery operated) will be lit at 7pm by the Senior Chaplain in memory of all the babies who lit up our lives for such a short time.

If you are unable to attend the service and wish to commemorate your loved one, please send a message to [email protected] by Tuesday 10 October 2023

Should you require further information please contact Euryl Howells by telephone or email 01267 227563 or [email protected]