News

Fine for operating as door supervisor without valid licence

Published

2 years ago

May 20, 2023

DAVID ALED PARRY JAMES, a 46-year-old male resident of Carregwen Farm in Llechryd, recently appeared in Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire Magistrates’ Court to face charges related to operating as a door supervisor without a valid licence.

Mr. James pleaded guilty to three separate counts of engaging in licensable conduct at the Dragon Wine Bar on High Street, Cardigan, without possessing the required Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.

According to the case file, on September 25, 2022, Mr. James carried out activities subject to additional controls while working as a door supervisor at Dragon Wine Bar.

He was found to be without a valid SIA licence, except for a licence issued under the Private Security Industry Act 2001.

The defendant repeated this offence on October 2, 2022, and again on October 19, 2022.

During the court hearing held on May 18, 2023, Mr. James pleaded guilty to all charges. The presiding magistrate took his guilty plea into account when imposing the sentences.

For each offence, he was fined £120, totaling £360 in fines.

Additionally, Mr. James was ordered to pay a surcharge of £144 to fund victim services and costs of £250.

A collection order was made to ensure the fines and costs are paid.

In light of his guilty plea, the court allowed Mr. James the option to pay the fines in installments.

A time-to-pay plan was set up, with the defendant required to pay £24.00 per month starting from June 15, 2023. The total balance to be paid is £754.00.

After the case a spokesperson for Ceredigion County Council told Herald.Wales: “Operating as a door supervisor without the appropriate licensing is a serious offence that undermines the safety and security of establishments and individuals.

“The Private Security Industry Act 2001 was enacted to regulate and maintain standards within the security industry, ensuring that licensed professionals carry out their duties. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) oversees the licensing process and monitors compliance with the law.

“Door supervisors play a crucial role in maintaining order and ensuring the safety of patrons in venues such as bars and clubs. Licensing requirements are in place to guarantee that individuals in these roles possess the necessary training, skills, and background checks to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Failure to comply with these requirements not only violates the law but also puts public safety at risk.

“The court emphasised the seriousness of the offences committed, and this is reflected in the fines and costs imposed.

“As this case concludes, it serves as a reminder to all door supervisors and security personnel to ensure they possess the appropriate licensing and adhere to the regulations set forth by the Private Security Industry Act 2001. Failure to do so may result in legal consequences and compromise public safety.”

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

19 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.

Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.

The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.

Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.

Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.

(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)

Business

Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.

The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.

The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.

A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”

Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.

Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.

From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.

Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.

(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.

In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”

Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.

Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.