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Woman appears in court following disruption at Haverfordwest supermarket

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A HAVERFORDWEST woman faced magistrates for sentencing after causing a disturbance at a local Iceland supermarket, highlighting her ongoing struggles with mental health and substance misuse.

On the evening of April 22, police were summoned to the supermarket in response to an altercation involving Kayleigh Summers, who was engaged in a heated argument with the staff. Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan described the incident, stating, “She was kicking off,” indicating Summers’ volatile behavior.

Staff members at the supermarket had declined to sell alcohol to Summers due to her apparent state of intoxication. When officers attempted to intervene and restrain her, she resisted their efforts. As a result, Summers was arrested and placed inside a police van. However, her behavior escalated further as she began to repeatedly bang her head while inside the vehicle.

During the court proceedings, Summers, a 24-year-old resident of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, was represented by Katy Hanson, who emphasized that her client was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incident. Hanson stated, “Following her arrest, she was taken to a mental health unit for assessment, indicating significant concern for her well-being.”

Acknowledging Summers’ struggles with alcohol and substance misuse, Hanson highlighted her client’s progress in addressing these issues. Since the incident, Summers has ceased drinking and sought assistance from the Dyfed Drugs and Alcohol Service (DDAS), which is providing her with ongoing support.

Taking into account the presented mitigation, the presiding magistrates granted Summers a conditional discharge for a period of 12 months. Additionally, she was ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £26 surcharge.

The presiding magistrate commended Summers, saying, “It’s good that you’re trying to do things to better yourself,” recognizing her commitment to personal improvement.

HERALD COMMENT

“This case sheds light on the complex interplay between mental health, substance misuse, and the resulting consequences individuals face. It also highlights the importance of access to appropriate support services and the need for empathy when dealing with individuals going through mental health crises.

As society strives to address these issues with compassion and understanding, it is crucial to continue promoting awareness and ensuring that those in need receive the necessary assistance to navigate challenging circumstances.

By offering support and guidance, communities can play a significant role in empowering individuals like Kayleigh Summers to rebuild their lives and overcome obstacles on their path to recovery.”

Business

Deposit Return Scheme diversion ‘illogical’ says Pembrokeshire brewery 

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TENBY HARBOUR BREWERY and local Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz have urged the Welsh Government to reconsider its decision to withdraw from a UK-wide Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) due to its insistence on including glass.

Earlier this week, Climate Change Secretary Huw Irranca-Davies announced that the Welsh Government would no longer participate in the development of a UK-wide DRS, citing issues arising from the UK Internal Market Act 2020. This decision is believed to be influenced by the Welsh Government’s plan to include glass in its scheme—a factor that contributed to the collapse of Scotland’s DRS in 2023.

The move has been met with frustration and anger from numerous organisations, who argue that this divergence will increase costs for Welsh producers and consumers.

Commenting on the matter, Samuel Kurtz said: “This decision is deeply frustrating, and to diverge from a UK-wide scheme shows that it is not one made with the best interests of Welsh consumers and producers at its core.

“The UK market is so interlinked that any decision which places Welsh businesses at a competitive disadvantage should not proceed. These calls from a range of industry and business representatives have been ignored by the Welsh Government.

“For the sake of our businesses and consumers, I urge the Welsh Government to reconsider its decision, align itself with the UK-wide scheme, and provide proper support to Welsh businesses.”

Industries, especially the micro-brewery sector, would be especially hit hard in Wales by the Welsh Governments choice.

Speaking following this announcement, Richard Johnson, Head Brewer at Tenby Harbour Brewery said:

“The brewing industry has had to tread a path through covid lockdowns, energy price increases, a cost of living crisis and rising wage and national insurance bills, making it increasingly difficult for brewers get good returns and re-invest in their businesses.

“Wales is a recycling nation, so a blunt ‘one size fits all’ approach creates additional logistical and financial burdens on the smallest producers, when the very largest producers are generating the majority of the recycling demand.

“It also seems illogical to diverge away from a UK wide scheme which will put Welsh brewers and drinks producers at a disadvantage.

“The UK and Wales has a proud brewing heritage, but adding in measures such as DRS to small brewers means that their time and money are directed to these activities, instead of using their time for innovation and R&D, of which the UK brewing scene is known and revered for.” 

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Business

Bluestone crowned ‘Best Small Company for UK Parks and Lodge Holidays’

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BLUESTONE is celebrating a major win after being named the Best Small Company for UK Parks and Lodges Holidays at the prestigious British Travel Awards 2024.

The announcement was made at the prestigious awards ceremony this week, marking yet another significant achievement for the popular West Wales destination.

This award recognises Bluestone’s commitment to providing exceptional family holiday experiences at its 500-acre resort in the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this award,” said Bethan Rees, Head of Marketing at Bluestone. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who create magical and memorable experiences for families all year round. We are incredibly grateful to every single one of our guests who voted for us and who choose to visit us year on year.

“When you look at the array of other finalists, the award demonstrates why we’re so proud of winning it. This is due to our continued investment, team, and commitment to environmentally sustainable tourism.”

This award builds on Bluestone’s impressive track record. It has consistently received high praise for its family-friendly facilities, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to providing outstanding customer service. Earlier this year, Bluestone was again recognised by Which? as one of the UK’s top holiday destinations and the best rated in Wales.

The British Travel Awards are the largest consumer-voted awards programme in the UK. Winning this award highlights Bluestone’s position as a leader in the family holiday market and reinforces its reputation as a top choice for unforgettable family getaways.

Bluestone, which employs over 800 people and is one of the largest employers in West Wales, is also committed to investing in its people and local community. It provides extensive training and development through its People Services team and the Bluestone Academy. In addition, it supports a wide range of local projects and initiatives through the Bluestone Foundation.

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News

Multi-agency exercise at South Hook LNG Terminal

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A MULTI-AGENCY exercise is scheduled to take place at the South Hook LNG Terminal tomorrow (Sunday), between 8:00am and 3:00pm.

Local residents in the vicinity of the terminal have already been informed about the event. However, authorities wish to reassure the wider public that an increase in traffic and activity near the terminal is part of this pre-planned exercise.

The exercise is a routine collaboration among emergency services and stakeholders to ensure preparedness for potential scenarios.

Residents and commuters are thanked in advance for their understanding and cooperation.

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