Community

Community take-over of local shop inspires Senedd member

Published

3 years ago

February 19, 2023

THE STORY of how a small Pembrokeshire town clubbed together to save a community shop has inspired one Senedd Member to visit to hear more about how the enterprise works.

Eluned Morgan called by to meet with directors and volunteers to hear about the scale of the task and their ambitious plans for the future.

Last year, a fundraising scheme supported by Cris Tomos of PLANED, finally raised enough cash to purchase Harvard’s hardware store which has traded on Newport’s East Street since 1840.

The project has received international attention, with a German TV crew the latest in a series of media outlets keen to hear how Newport has taken a stand to preserving a local asset against the backdrop of second home ownership, an aging population and online sales and next day delivery.

Eluned said: “Especially in our villages and towns, small shops have and continue to play an important role in the fabric of local life and contribute positively to the wellbeing of our communities.

“Harvard’s community hardware store is a great example of how community action and the share scheme is inspiring other communities to purchase other local assets, like pubs which can also be a focal point where little other social space exists.”

“We know that by shopping locally, the pound in our pocket works harder by supporting local jobs and strengthening the local economy. I wish Harvard’s every success for the future, with continued support, this community owned business will go from strength to strength and act as a beacon to others in these difficult economic times.”

Cris Tomos the Community Assets Coordinator at PLANED who is also a committee member with Siop Harvard’s noted: “ t has been a great team effort to raise the money to ensure that Harvard’s hardware store remains open, there was a real threat that the doors would shut and all the stock and fixtures sold, with another empty retail space disappearing.”

“The community shares model has worked really well and the business plan outlines that community investors will receive an annual 3% dividend with a planned tax relief of 30% being claimed by qualifying investors in year one.”

Chris Morgan the company secretary confirmed “We have raised over £450,000 from investors near and far. Keeping the shop open was the major driver to ensure that future generations can enjoy the experience of a local community run ironmongers shop.

“We are told that this is the first community owned hardware shop in the whole of the UK and it is a tribute to the local people of Newport for ensuring this important asset has been saved from closure.”

Photo: (indoors) Pictured are (L-R) Jane Thomas, Chris Morgan, Ros McGarry, John Harries, Cris Tomos and Eluned Morgan MS.

Community

Milford Haven dad completes London Marathon in memory of son

Published

19 hours ago

April 26, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A MILFORD HAVEN father has successfully completed the London Marathon today in memory of his son, while raising money for Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice.

Johnathan Crimmins crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 4:04:14, with a halfway split of 2:42:06, in what he described as both a physical and emotional challenge.

He took on the marathon in honour of his son Kieran, who died seven years ago at the age of 21 following a battle with his mental health.

Speaking ahead of the run, Johnathan said the experience of losing his son had shown him how precious time with children can be.

He said: “Sadly seven years ago I lost my son, Kieran, at the age of 21 following a battle with his mental health. So, I know all too well the importance of being able to spend time with your children, as time is precious and not always guaranteed.

“By being able to run for Tŷ Hafan, I know that not only will I be raising awareness of Tŷ Hafan and what they do, but also raising valuable funds which will ensure that families will be supported and enabled to spend quality time together during their children’s short lives.”

This was Johnathan’s fifth full marathon and his third time running the London Marathon, adding to a long list of fundraising challenges including half marathons and even skydives.

He also spoke candidly about the personal challenge behind the run, having been diagnosed with severe PTSD following the discovery of his son alongside his daughter.

He said: “This will be a significant challenge for myself… so I will also be running in Kieran’s memory.”

Tŷ Hafan supports children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Wales, helping them make the most of the time they have together.

Johnathan’s achievement has been praised locally, with many recognising both the physical effort involved and the powerful cause behind his run.

Community

Memorial plaque presented in honour of Cllr Pamela George

Published

2 days ago

April 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A MEMORIAL plaque has been presented in honour of Cllr Pamela George, recognising her dedicated service to Pembroke Dock.

The presentation took place at a recent full meeting of Pembroke Dock Town Council, where the town’s mayor, Cllr Michele Wiggins, presented the plaque to Cllr Jon George and Cllr Tracy George.

The plaque bears the words: “A life of service, a legacy of dedication,” and commemorates Cllr George’s contribution to the town and its community.

Pembroke Dock Town Council thanked Michaels Civic Robes & Regalia, which donated the plaque.

Photo caption:

Tribute: Cllr Jon George and Cllr Tracy George receive the memorial plaque from Pembroke Dock Mayor Cllr Michele Wiggins (Pic: Pembroke Dock Town Council).

Community

Freshwater West memorial honours crews lost in wartime tragedy

Published

2 days ago

April 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

VETERANS, standard bearers and civic representatives gathered at Freshwater West on Saturday (Apr 25) for a moving service of remembrance for the men lost in one of Pembrokeshire’s worst wartime maritime disasters.

The annual memorial service remembered the crews of HM Landing Craft Gun (Large) 15 and 16, and members of HMS Rosemary, who died after the vessels were overwhelmed in heavy seas off the Pembrokeshire coast in April 1943.

A total of 79 Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel lost their lives in the tragedy, which unfolded on April 25 and 26, 1943.

The two landing craft had been travelling from Belfast to Falmouth when they ran into severe weather off Freshwater West. Their flat-bottomed design made them vulnerable in rough seas, and both vessels were eventually lost.

HMS Rosemary, a fishery protection vessel, went to the aid of the stricken craft, but six of her crew also drowned when a rescue boat capsized during the attempt to save others.

On Saturday, standards were carried to the memorial above the beach, where clergy led prayers and wreaths were laid in honour of the fallen.

The ceremony was attended by veterans, members of the Royal Marines Association, standard bearers, civic dignitaries and members of the public.

The names of those who died are recorded on the memorial at Freshwater West, overlooking the sea where the disaster took place more than eight decades ago.

Those attending stood in silence as the Last Post was sounded, with standards lowered in tribute to the men who never returned.

The service served as a reminder of the sacrifice made by wartime sailors and marines, as well as the bravery of those who gave their lives trying to rescue others.

Photos: Martin Cavaney