News
China’s farmers take on TV challenge

THE series Fferm Ffactor has recruited a new audience in the world’s most populated country, as the format is sold to a Chinese broadcaster.
The popular farming challenge series – which sees farmers tested on all aspects of agriculture work – has been licensed by Chinese broadcaster CCTV 7 by the Welsh production company, Cwmni Da. CCTV 7 has commissioned an eight part series.
The Fferm Ffactor brand was established by Irish producers Good Company Productions for TG4. Cwmni Da developed the format and the first Welsh series was broadcast on S4C in 2009. Since then Cwmni Da has been working with the Irish company and distributors Nordic World to sell the format to other countries.
This latest sale will introduce the format to an Asian audience for the first time – in the world’s most populated country, which employs over 300 million farmers, and has the most sheep of any country in the world!
“It’s obvious that agriculture is very important in China,” says Fferm Ffactor producer Non Griffith. “We’re not sure yet what sorts of tasks the Chinese producers will set for their farmers, but we look forward to finding out more during the next few months.”
It’s an exciting development as S4C viewers prepare for the start of the latest series on Wednesday, October 16 7.30 (English subtitles). Each year S4C’s Fferm Ffactor expands and grows, moving up a gear and turning up the heat. And the same is true about the new series as it extends to an hour long programme for the first time ever – more time for quizzing, testing and challenging the farmers!
Gaynor Davies, S4C Content Commissioner says, “Fferm Ffactor has a strong following among S4C viewers and we look forward to welcoming the series back to the screen for the fifth time. The format has wide appeal and it has the potential for development and adaption for the audience, which makes it an attractive prospect for international broadcasters. We’re proud that programmes made and developed in Wales are recognised in this way, and entertain audiences across the world.”
In 2012, it was announced that producers in six European countries had bought the rights to develop their own versions in France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland. The Danish channel DR will broadcast their series during autumn 2013, and the format has also been sold to New Zealand.
Go to s4c.co.uk/ffermffactor to find out about the new series on S4C and get to know the 10 farmers taking on this year’s challenge.
Crime
Haverfordwest retailer accused of Bounce Back Loan fraud

A HAVERFORDWEST businessman has been accused of committing fraud by making false representations to multiple banks in applications for Government-backed Bounce Back Loans.
Zahid Afzal, 36, of Albert Street, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he pleaded not guilty to three charges of fraud by false representation.
The court heard that Afzal, listed on Companies House as a director of Phone Bits Ltd and Phones Onn Ltd, allegedly made false statements to secure loans intended to support businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Prosecutors claim that on May 12, 2020, he falsely stated to Barclays Bank that the application for a Bounce Back Loan was Phone Bits Ltd’s only application. It is further alleged that he made similar false claims to Starling Bank on July 23, 2020, and to Metro Bank on November 22, 2020, in relation to Phones Onn Ltd.
The alleged misrepresentations included inflating the company’s turnover to £200,000 and falsely claiming the loans would be used solely for business purposes.
Afzal’s case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court for trial, with a hearing scheduled for March 10. He was granted unconditional bail.
An interpreter will be required for the proceedings, as Afzal requires assistance in Urdu.
Charity
Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

THE CREW of Tenby RNLI have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to 5-year-old Archie Garland for his outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the station.
Archie took part in the Advent Challenge with the Tenby Aces over Christmas, running a minimum of one mile every day throughout Advent. His dedication saw him cover an impressive 47.3 miles, raising a remarkable £552.25 thanks to generous donations from the local community.
Archie is pictured with (L-R): Deputy Coxswain Gary Waring, his dad and Deputy Coxswain Rob Garland, Deputy Coxswain Dan Young, station full-time mechanic Will Horton, and his mum, Tenby Aces member Claire Thomas.
Crime
Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn launches ambitious four-year policing plan

Public trust at the heart of new strategy
DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has unveiled his four-year Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, outlining his vision to strengthen public trust and confidence in policing.

The plan, shaped by extensive public consultation, sets out priorities for policing, crime prevention, and the criminal justice system across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys. It follows feedback from surveys and focus groups, where residents highlighted their key concerns.
The three core priorities of the plan are:
- Supporting victims and preventing victimisation
- Preventing harm to ensure safer communities
- Enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system
Llywelyn formally launched the plan on Tuesday (Feb 13) at an event attended by key partners and commissioned services. The event focused on collaboration, with discussions on how joint efforts can strengthen crime prevention, victim support, and justice delivery.
Victims at the centre

Commissioner Llywelyn emphasised the importance of ensuring victims receive the right support.
“This plan is built on the views of our communities, focusing on what truly matters to the people of Mid and West Wales,” he said. “Victims must be at the heart of our policing and justice system. It is essential that those affected by crime have access to timely, effective support to help them recover and seek justice. Strengthening services that prevent victimisation is just as important as responding to crime itself.”
Tackling root causes of crime

The plan also prioritises crime prevention by addressing underlying issues.
“By tackling antisocial behaviour and vulnerability, we can reduce harm and build a more resilient society,” Llywelyn said. “A proactive, problem-solving approach will ensure resources are used effectively to protect our communities.”
A joined-up approach to justice
Llywelyn stressed the need for stronger collaboration across the justice system.
“A fair and efficient justice system relies on agencies working together. I will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that policing, the courts, and support services deliver justice fairly and effectively for victims and communities alike.”
The Police and Crime Plan sets out a clear vision for Dyfed-Powys policing over the next four years, focusing on improving public safety, supporting victims, and delivering an efficient justice system.
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