News

Catholic schools federation consultation call backed by cabinet

Published

2 years ago

April 27, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CONSULTATION on the potential federation of Pembrokeshire’s four Catholic schools was backed by senior councillors earlier this week.

Members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, meeting on April 24, backed a recommendation that authority be delegated to the Director of Education to start a statutory consultation on federations for Haverfordwest’s Mary Immaculate Catholic School and Tenby’s St Teilo’s Catholic School, and Fishguard’s Holy Name Catholic School and Milford Haven’s St Francis Catholic School.

A report for Cabinet members stated: “Due to various headteacher vacancies and a growing inability to recruit, the current status and headship arrangements at the schools are outlined in the following table. Currently, there are informal arrangements in three of the above schools, with a recruitment process being necessary in the fourth.

“It is necessary to ‘formalise’ these arrangements, and the relevant governing bodies and the Diocese of Menevia have expressed a wish to consider establishing federations.”

The report said St Francis has been without a permanent headteacher since September 2022. Since then, St Francis and Holy Name have been in an informal collaboration, with the headteacher of Holy Name acting as an executive headteacher across the two schools, following several unsuccessful recruitment rounds for St Francis.

Members also heard Mary Immaculate School will need to recruit a headteacher for September and St Teilo’s has been without a permanent headteacher since January.

The report added: “Since then, St Teilo’s Catholic School and Tavernspite/Templeton Federation have been in an informal collaboration, with the headteacher of the Tavernspite/Templeton Federation acting as executive headteacher across the schools.

“Following several recruitment rounds, the arrangement was established as the governing body at St Teilo’s was unable to appoint a headteacher for the school.

“The governing body of St Teilo’s, supported by the Diocese of Menevia, would like to consider a formal federation with another Catholic school.”

Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language Guy Woodham stressed the potential federation was “not an amalgamation, a takeover, or a route to school closure,” adding the schools would remain as separate establishments.

He moved the recommendation, seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack.

Council Leader David Simpson recalled the success of the federation of the Tavernspite and Templeton schools in his own ward.

“I cannot emphasise how good the transition was and how good the schools are now; an excellent way forward.”

Entertainment

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

Published

21 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

22 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

1 day 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.”