News
Van driver jailed for causing death of cyclist by dangerous driving

A VAN driver who caused the death of a cyclist because he was on his phone at the wheel has been jailed for five years.
Simon Lee Draper, aged 42, of Meidrim Road, St Clears, was handed the sentence at Swansea Crown Court after he was convicted of causing the death of off duty police officer PS Lynwen Thomas by dangerous driving following a trial at the Nightingale Court at Swansea Civic Centre last month.
Draper was the driver of a Ford Transit which collided with Ms Thomas, who was riding her Trek bike along the A40 westbound at around 6.40pm on the evening of Thursday 25th February 2021.
Ms Thomas sustained fatal injuries and passed away at the scene.
Draper had admitted a lesser charge of causing death by careless driving and tried to argue that his 13-month-old son had been using the phone at the time and not him.
However, a paediatric expert told the court that the functions and activity recorded on the phone were impossible for a child of that age to perform.
During sentencing, His Honour Judge Hywel James commended Ms Thomas’ family on their dignified presence throughout the trial and sentencing hearings.
He added the case highlights again the grave consequences of using a mobile phone at the wheel and also noted that in the pre-sentence report Draper is still claiming that it was his son who was using the mobile phone.
Draper was also given a six-year driving ban with a requirement to sit an extended driving test.
News
Count down is on for the opening of new venue HANGAR in Milford Haven

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

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]
News
Councillors elected to Haverfordwest Town Council

The declaration of results for by-elections to two Haverfordwest Town Council Wards
are available on the Pembrokeshire County Council website.
The elections to the Priory and Portfield Wards took place on September 19 th , 2023.
Cllr Peter Lewis and Cllr Tasha Jones were elected to the Priory Ward and Cllr Roy
Thomas to the Portfield Ward.
Returning Officer Will Bramble made the declaration of results at the Picton Centre,
Haverfordwest, following the closure of polls and counting.
The full declarations are available on the election results page of the Council’s
website.
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