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

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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

Officials announced for 2026 Eisteddfod in Pembrokeshire

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THE NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD returns to Pembrokeshire in 2026, and organisers have named the officials who will steer this major cultural event over the next year and a half.

With the artistic and local committees already established, meetings to finalise competitions and adjudicators are underway to ensure the List of Competitions is ready by spring. Committee members have also been voting over the past weeks to elect key officials for the Executive Committee.

John Davies, former leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, has been appointed Chair of the Executive Committee. Known for his deep connection to Pembrokeshire and extensive experience with national organisations, Davies aims to make the Eisteddfod a true community event, welcoming involvement from all corners of the region.

Tegryn Jones, Chief Executive of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, takes on the role of Deputy Chair (Strategy). With a strong passion for Welsh culture and language, Jones brings a wealth of experience working with local communities, visitors, and volunteers across three counties.

Deputy Chair (Culture) is Carys Ifan, Director of Canolfan Egin and a seasoned cultural organiser. Based in Llangrannog and originally from Llandudoch, Ifan has led numerous artistic and community projects across the region.

Cris Tomos, a community development veteran with over 30 years of experience, will lead the 2026 Eisteddfod Local Fund. Working with PLANED, a community development charity, Tomos has supported countless community enterprises and co-operatives in Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire.

Non Davies, recently elected as Executive Committee Secretary, brings extensive cultural management expertise as Ceredigion County Council’s Corporate Manager for Culture. Having chaired the Cardigan Local Fund Committee for the 2022 Ceredigion Eisteddfod, Davies is well-versed in managing cultural projects.

National Eisteddfod Chief Executive, Betsan Moses, said: “We’re looking forward to working with John and the team over the next few months as we prepare for the 2026 Eisteddfod.

“There’s almost a quarter of a century since the Eisteddfod was last held in Pembrokeshire, and we’re very much looking forward to returning to the area. 2026 is an important year for us as we celebrate 850 years since the first Eisteddfod was held in Cardigan Castle in 1176.

“We’re looking forward to working in a new way within a catchment area which includes parts of another two counties, which is, of course, a chance to work with local people in Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire again.”

Further announcements are expected in the coming weeks, including the sale of competition prizes and opportunities to donate the Crown and the Chair.

The National Eisteddfod will be held in Llantood from August 1–8, 2026.

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Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

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THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

  1. Privates are private.
  2. Always remember your body belongs to you.
  3. No means no.
  4. Talk about secrets that upset you.
  5. Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

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Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

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A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

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