News
Builder convicted for fraudulently claiming £16,000 in benefits during lockdown
A BUILDER who possessed two properties in Pembrokeshire has been found guilty of unlawfully receiving over £16,000 in benefits following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gordon Hardy, aged 56 and residing on Dew Street in Haverfordwest, submitted a claim for universal credit on March 27, 2020, just days after the implementation of lockdown measures.
According to the prosecution led by Alycia Carpanini, Hardy stated in his claim that he was an unmarried individual with a dependent child, devoid of any income or capital. Regrettably, he failed to disclose his ownership of two properties – one on Brookside Avenue and another on Haven Road.
Hardy later admitted to the police that the Haven Road property was vacant and in a dilapidated state. Meanwhile, he revealed that he allowed a friend to reside in the Brookside Avenue property rent-free, as relayed by Ms. Carpanini.
Due to the increased demand for support during the lockdown and the subsequent relaxation of checks on claims, the prosecutor stated that the scrutiny had become “less stringent.” Although Hardy underwent a telephone appointment, no irregularities were detected.
Between March 27, 2020, and May 26, 2022, Hardy illicitly claimed a total of £16,667.29 in universal credit.
During a police interview on July 1 of the previous year, Hardy asserted that he had applied for universal credit due to the pandemic’s adverse impact on his self-employed building business, leaving him without work.
He also claimed ignorance regarding the requirement to disclose his properties as part of the application process.
In his defense, Mr. Thomas expressed Hardy’s deep remorse for his actions during the lockdown period. He noted, “Many people genuinely needed benefits during that time. Many people engaged in actions they would never have contemplated.”
Mr. Thomas further pointed out that Hardy, who had no prior convictions, had fully repaid the entire amount.
Sentencing Hardy, Recorder Simon Mills criticized his fraudulent claim, remarking, “At the commencement of the lockdown, you knowingly made a false claim for state benefits. At different times, you attempted to provide excuses, alleging ignorance of the regulations. Such claims are baseless, as everyone is aware of the actual rules, especially the fundamental ones.”
Recorder Mills continued, “I have read one of your character references, which mentioned your involvement in a tennis club. Certain aspects of your lifestyle lie well beyond the reach of those genuinely in need of assistance during that time.”
He emphasized that state-provided funds designated for those in need should be allocated to individuals genuinely requiring aid.
Hardy received a two-month prison sentence, suspended for a year. Additionally, he is required to undertake 180 hours of unpaid work.
News
Local rugby talent Osian Williams selected for Wales Under-20 clash with England
A FORMER Haverfordwest Blues junior has earned international honours after being selected to represent Wales Under-20 rugby union team in their fixture against England.
Osian Williams, who began his rugby journey at Haverfordwest Rugby Football Club, will pull on the red jersey this evening in what marks a proud milestone for both the player and the Pembrokeshire club that helped develop his talent.
Club members said the call-up reflects years of hard work, commitment and steady progress through the ranks, with Williams recognised locally for his determination and performances on the pitch from a young age.
A spokesperson for Haverfordwest RFC said the whole club is “incredibly proud” to see one of their own step onto the international stage.
They added that it is always special to watch former junior players progress to represent their country, describing Williams’ selection as “fully deserved” and an inspiration to the next generation coming through the Blues’ youth setup.
The match against England provides a stern test for the young Welsh side, but for Williams and his family it is also a moment to savour after years of dedication to the sport.
Friends, coaches and former teammates are expected to be cheering him on from Pembrokeshire as he makes his mark in Welsh colours.
Photo caption:
Osian Williams has been selected to play for Wales Under-20s against England (Pic: Supplied).
Crime
Man arrested for murder following death of pensioner in Pembroke Dock
Officers called to Hawkstone Road property as investigation continues and residents urged to come forward
DYFED-POWYS POLICE officers have launched a murder investigation following the sudden death of an eighty-five-year-old man at a property in Hawkstone Road, Pembroke Dock.
Emergency services were called at approximately 1:30pm today (Friday, Feb 6).
Officers attended the scene and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.
A man in his forties has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while the investigation continues.
Anyone with information that could assist officers is urged to come forward.
Information can be provided online, by 101.
Quote reference: 212 of February 6.
Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their website.
Education
Second west Wales school placed in lockdown within days
Precautionary measures activated at Ysgol Brynteg after morning disturbance outside gates
CARMARTHENSHIRE pupils were kept inside classrooms after a precautionary lockdown was triggered at Ysgol Brynteg on Friday morning (Feb 6), marking the second west Wales secondary school to enter lockdown in the same week.
Police were called shortly after 9:00am following reports of a verbal altercation outside the school grounds.
Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended and the Llanelli school activated its safeguarding procedures while the situation was assessed.
No weapons were reported, no injuries have been confirmed and there have been no arrests at this stage. The incident is understood to have involved a dispute outside the site rather than inside the school itself.
Pupils remained indoors under staff supervision while officers made checks. Once police were satisfied there was no ongoing risk, the lockdown was lifted and lessons continued as normal.
A spokesperson said the measure was purely precautionary.
The incident comes just days after armed officers were deployed to Milford Haven School following a serious assault on a teacher, prompting a temporary closure and widespread concern among parents.
While the circumstances in Llanelli were far less severe, the two events occurring so close together have heightened anxiety among families across west Wales.
Schools routinely use lockdown procedures when there is any uncertainty or potential threat nearby, even if the risk later proves minimal. The approach is designed to err on the side of caution and protect pupils while emergency services investigate.
Parents were informed that Brynteg was safe and operating normally once the situation had been resolved.
There is currently no indication that pupils inside the school were directly involved in the disturbance.
The Herald understands enquiries are ongoing.
Both incidents underline how quickly everyday school days can be disrupted, and how safeguarding responses are increasingly becoming part of standard practice across Welsh schools.
Anyone with information about the Llanelli incident is asked to contact police.
-
Crime2 days agoSex offender jailed after living off grid in Pembrokeshire and refusing to register
-
Health1 day agoHealth board targets rise in steroid and gym drug use across west Wales
-
News3 days agoPrincess of Wales visits historic Pembrokeshire woollen mill
-
Crime1 day agoTeacher injured and teenager arrested for attempted murder at Milford Haven School
-
Health5 days agoDoctor struck off after sexual misconduct findings at Withybush Hospital
-
Education6 days agoIndustry insight helps marine cadets chart career course
-
Crime3 days agoHakin man’s appeal delayed again as Crown Court seeks guidance on insurance law
-
News5 days agoHerald journalists to feature in true-crime documentary on local lockdown murder








