News
Welsh MPs hear from water campaigners on pollution concerns

WITH rising public concern about sewage discharges into rivers and coastal waters, the Welsh Affairs Committee in Parliament has brought together some of the leading water quality campaigners to hear about the situation across Wales.
Witnesses included Angela Jones – known as the “Wild Woman of the Wye”, Jon Khoo – Chair of Surfers Against Sewage, and Gail Davies-Walsh the CEO of Afonydd Cmyru. All three voiced strong concerns about the lack of action being taken to protect Welsh waters from sewage and agricultural pollution.
Preseli MP, Stephen Crabb, who chairs the committee led the evidence session by asking the witnesses to describe the extent of the problems facing Welsh waters. Following the recent arguments in Parliament about new plans in England to clamp down on sewage discharges, the MP asked why there has been so little political debate in Wales about water quality.
In 2020, there were 105,751 sewage spills into waterways across Wales recorded by event duration monitors (EDMs). Spills from storm overflows pose risks to river and public health due to the introduction of pollutants and bacteria. In Wales, these issues are the responsibility of Welsh Government.
All three of the witnesses drew attention to recent pollution incidents in Pembrokeshire waters and elsewhere in Wales. The discussion with MPs focused on the performance of Welsh Water in reducing sewage discharges and Natural Resources Wales, an arm of Welsh Government, in enforcing current water quality rules. Mr Crabb drew attention to inaccuracies in the way Welsh Water has counted sewage discharges near Newport in north Pembrokeshire.
Following the session, Mr Crabb said:
“Pollution of rivers and coastal waters has become a massive issue of concern for the public, in Wales and all across the UK. This has particular importance for us in Pembrokeshire. Public opinion is only going to get stronger on this, and rightly so.”
“At Westminster legislation has now been passed that places strong duties on water companies to get their act together on reducing sewage discharges. In Wales, there isn’t a clear plan right now. We really need Welsh Government to step up and take action to protect our waters.”
Next month, the Welsh Affairs Committee will hear evidence from Natural Resources Wales, Welsh Water and the regulator Ofwat.
Community
Residents thanked as Carmarthen gas works completed on time

ESSENTIAL upgrade works to gas pipes in King Street, Carmarthen, have been completed on time and to plan, Wales & West Utilities has confirmed.
The project, which began in early January, was part of the company’s programme to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for homes and businesses in the area—now and for years to come.
The company worked closely with Carmarthenshire County Council to coordinate traffic management throughout the scheme and minimise disruption.
Adam Smith, who managed the project for Wales & West Utilities, thanked local residents and traders for their patience.
He said: “We’d like to thank the local community for bearing with us while we completed this essential work.
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in everyday life—from heating homes and cooking meals to running hot baths. We understand how important it is that the supply is safe, reliable and there when you need it.
“This work will keep gas flowing safely to homes and businesses today, while also helping to prepare the network to carry hydrogen and biomethane in future, supporting the journey to a greener energy system.”
Crime
Tenby man charged after robbery incident

A MAN is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court next month after being charged in connection with a late-night incident in Tenby town centre.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that no one was injured during the disturbance, which took place at a restaurant in Tudor Square on the evening of Sunday, March 30.
Mohammed Miah, aged 44, has been charged with robbery, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and criminal damage.
He appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court earlier this month, where he was remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, May 2.
Farming
Pembrokeshire Show elects first joint presidents

DAIRY FARMERS TIM AND MARGARET JOHNS HONOURED BY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
HAVERFORDWEST dairy farmers Tim and Margaret Johns have been unanimously elected as the first joint Presidents of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society.
The couple, who farm at Pencnwc in partnership with their son Graham, represent the third generation of their family to work the land. Their 550-acre holding in Castlemorris includes dairy cattle and the cultivation of both winter and spring cereals.
Margaret and Tim have a long-standing association with the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society and the County Show. Margaret, in particular, has achieved considerable success in equestrian showing at events including Royal Windsor, the Great Yorkshire Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show. She also founded and continues to run Castlemorris Equestrian and Pet Supplies from the farm.
Speaking following their appointment, Tim said: “Margaret and I work as a partnership. The County Show is a major part of Pembrokeshire and is an integral part of farming in the county. We are looking forward to the year ahead. We have chosen RABI and the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society as our charities to support over the next 12 months.”
During the Society’s Annual General Meeting, held recently at the Pembrokeshire Showground, Mr and Mrs James Evans were voted in as Presidents Elect.
Other appointments for 2025 include Miss Alys Owens, who was named as the Society’s Ambassador. Alys, who lives in Haverfordwest and works for Castell Howell, is an active member of Llysyfran YFC. She served as Club Secretary last year, a role for which she was named Club Secretary of the Year at County level. A talented musician, Alys plays the cornet with Goodwick Brass Band.
Outgoing President Adam Thorne used the occasion to thank all those who had supported him during his term in office.
Alys Owens, the 2025 Ambassador, is pictured between Margaret and Tim Johns, the 2025/26 Joint Presidents.
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