Community

The mighty ‘Pelican of London’ tall ship sails into Fishguard

Published

3 years ago

May 18, 2023

THE PICTURESQUE waters of Fishguard recently welcomed the majestic tall ship, ‘The Pelican of London,’ as it embarked on its summer journey under the auspices of Sail Training Ireland. Arriving from Dublin yesterday afternoon (Tuesday), the three-masted vessel captivated onlookers with its unique design and rich maritime history.

Renowned as the only Mainmast Barquentine in the world, The Pelican of London possesses a distinct rig inspired by the ancient Xebec, a Mediterranean ship famous for its association with Barbary pirates for two centuries. This remarkable rigging allows the Pelican to sail remarkably close to the wind, surpassing the capabilities of any square rigger currently at sea.

Originally built in France in 1948 as a fishing trawler for Arctic expeditions, the Pelican of London later underwent a transformation, being sold to Norway and converted into a coaster named Kadett. However, the vessel’s journey took a turbulent turn in 1993 when it was apprehended for smuggling a substantial cargo of vodka from Finland, resulting in its confiscation and the imprisonment of its owner.

In 1995, Retired Commander Graham Neilson stepped in, purchasing the ship and embarking on an ambitious restoration project. Twelve years later, the Pelican of London emerged from this extensive refurbishment, gleaming with renewed vitality, ready to embark on its maiden voyage under the banner of “Seas your Future” and Ocean College.

Ocean College, an organization facilitating academic and nautical training for students aged 15 and above, frequently utilizes the Pelican as a vessel for their year-long educational expeditions. Departing from Europe each October, the ship sails across the Atlantic, making stops in the Caribbean and various destinations to engage in specialized projects along the way. The experience offered by Ocean College often serves as a gap year opportunity for graduates, though it remains open to all eligible students seeking an extraordinary voyage.

Currently, the helm has been passed to Sail Training Ireland for the summer voyage, as they continue the ship’s mission of imparting valuable skills and fostering a deep appreciation for the maritime world.

The Pelican of London’s visit to Fishguard represents a captivating chapter in its vibrant history. As it majestically sails the waters, residents and visitors alike are treated to a glimpse of its extraordinary heritage and the dedication of organizations like Seas your Future in empowering young individuals through maritime education.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

16 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)