News

MP welcomes Pembrokeshire Charity founder to Downing Street

Published

2 years ago

March 2, 2023

PRESELI Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb, welcomed a prominent local charity founder at the doors of Number 10 Downing Street for the annual St David’s Day reception.

Amanda Absalom Lowe – founder of Pembrokeshire, Care Share and Give – was invited by the Prime Minister to attend this prestigious event for Welsh businesses, cultural and sporting personalities following her recent Points of Light Award which she received from Rishi Sunak. Amanda was formally presented with her award last week by her MP, Stephen Crabb.

Amanda is the 1,985th person to receive the Points of Light award, which was first launched in April 2014 to recognise outstanding individuals making a positive change within their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.

Another prominent Pembrokeshire person who was welcomed to Parliament on St David’s Day was Toby Ellis, Station Manager of Pure West Radio based in Haverfordwest. Toby had been invited to present evidence as part of the Broadcasting in Wales inquiry being carried out by the Welsh Affairs Committee, chaired by Stephen Crabb.

The Welsh Affairs Committee heard from Welsh local radio stations including Pure West, to explore concerns about the loss of local content from commercial radio and its impact on Welsh Language broadcasting. Toby was able to discuss the radio’s role in the local community across the County, its work in establishing Haverfordwest High Radio, and sharing experiences of UK Government and Ofcom support.

Pembrokeshire businesses were also in attendance at the annual St David’s Day Dinner 2023 as part of the Wales Week in London events held at the Guild Hall. Fishguard’s Stena Line, Port of Milford Haven and St David’s Gin Distillery were represented at the dinner which involved over 500 Welsh businesses.

Commenting on the St David’s Day activities, Stephen Crabb MP said,

“I was delighted to welcome Amanda at this special event in Downing Street. Amanda is a wonderful example of the positive impact people can have in their local community, and in inspiring others. Amanda is a much-deserved winner of this prestigious Points of Light award and I am very pleased that she was part of the celebrations in London today.”

“It was good to have Toby Ellis in front of the panel of the Welsh Affairs Committee showcasing all the good work that he and his team have been doing at Pure West Radio to help strengthen and develop our community networks which is so important in our rural county.”

“ I am pleased that so many Pembrokeshire people were able to be part of the important St David’s Day celebrations and proceedings in and around Parliament – it all helps to provide the opportunity to fly the Pembrokeshire flag and for the County to be represented at these significant national occasions.”

Commenting on their social media site, Pembrokeshire Care, Share and Give said, “ Today Amanda had the privilege to visit no 10 with an invite from the Prime Minister. We all even got to get a selfie with Max Boyce. We also supported Toby at Pure West Radio today as Megan is part of the Haverfordwest High VC School radio. Thank you to Stephen Crabb MP and his admin staff for all their help and showing us around the Houses of Parliament. Its been a busy few days and we are proud to continue to support our community in Pembrokeshire.”

Pictured above: Stephen Crabb MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire, pictured with Amanda Absalom Lowe outside Number 10 Downing Street before the Prime Minister’s St David’s Day reception.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

10 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

10 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

17 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”