News

Emergency services responding to fire on Stena Europe ferry at Fishguard Harbour

Published

2 years ago

February 11, 2023

A MULTI AGENCY response has been mounted following the break out of a fire on a passenger ferry off the coast of Pembrokeshire this Saturday evening (Feb 11).

Early reports suggest that there was a serious blaze in the engine room of the Stena Europe vessel off Strumble Head.

The crippled 150m ferry was then aided into Fishguard Harbour by two tug boats.

The alarm was raised just after 9pm.

A Sikorsky S-92A coastguard rescue helicopter was scrambled from The Lake District, and spent a considerable time hovering over the vessel as it was brought into port.

By 23:40 it was returning to base.

RNLI lifeboats from St Davids and New Quay were launched to the emergency.

Twenty emergency vehicles, including fire tenders and ambulances were counted at the scene by around 11pm.

The Wales Air Ambulance also scrambled a helicopter to the scene, although there are no confirmed reports of any injuries.

At 23:51 firefighters were seen, from the quayside, spraying water down one of the funnels of the ferry as ambulances stood by.

Passengers were told to be prepared to man the lifeboats, and were mustered with life jackets ready, but the ferry, which was built in 1980 to carry 1500 passengers, managed to get to the port before this became necessary.

On Facebook passenger Stephen Kearney put up a public post saying: “Well the fire onboard the Stenaline Rosslare to Fishguard Ferry is now out.

“Useful to be a sailor in evacuation prep with the crew. Serious fire is now extinguished. Phew! I put the bottle of whiskey back that I’d grabbed for a night in the lifeboat!”

MORE TO FOLLOW

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

7 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

20 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

21 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.