Charity

Community unites to honour the memory of Zac Thompson

Published

3 years ago

May 28, 2023

AS SUMMER approaches and the county prepares for another holiday season, the community of Pembrokeshire stands determined to ensure that the tragic passing of 11-year-old Zac Thompson on West Angle beach last year does not become just another statistic.

One year has passed since Zac, described as “cheeky, mischievous, and loyal,” lost his life in a devastating drowning incident.

His family and friends, joined by a small group of coaches and parents, have established Forever11, a charity aimed at finding solace and promoting sea safety awareness in Zac’s name.

On that fateful evening in July, Zac, a pupil at Pembroke Dock Community School, had no intention of venturing into the sea. Accompanied by his elder brother and their 11-year-old cousin, they had gathered on the beach to witness the beauty of the sunset. Tragically, an unexpected “freak wave” swept the boys off the rocks, and Zac found himself caught in a powerful whirlpool.

Although his two family members managed to scramble to safety on nearby rocks, Zac succumbed to the water’s grasp.

A vigilant member of the public brought him to the shoreline, where emergency services were waiting. He was swiftly airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, but tragically passed away the following day.

This heartbreaking incident had a profound impact on the close-knit community, particularly Zac’s rugby team.

In response to this senseless loss, a dedicated group of coaches and parents formed Forever11, aiming to bring forth positivity in the face of tragedy. Natalie John, aged 35, and Lucy Cawley, both trustees of the charity, refer to their group as “one big family.”

Since its inception, Forever11 has managed to raise £11,000 through a family fun day held last August, as well as an additional £5,000 from various events.

The charity’s simple yet powerful mission is to educate the local community about sea safety and awareness.

This message carries profound significance in Pembrokeshire, a region marked by one of the highest rates of water-related fatalities in Wales. Natalie highlighted that a significant portion of these incidents involve individuals who had no intention of entering the water.

Lucy, a mother of two boys herself, struggles to comprehend the loss: “You just can’t imagine living without your children.” Zac was an enthusiastic sportsman and a capable swimmer.

Lucy described him as “cheeky, mischievous, very, very loyal to his mates, incredibly kind and compassionate.” Natalie, a mother of four boys whose husband coached Zac’s rugby team, added that he was protective, ensuring fairness and kindness towards others. He possessed a gentle and caring nature.

These sentiments echo the heartfelt tribute shared by Zac’s mother, Carli Newell, a journalist at The Pembrokeshire Herald. During the inquest she said: “Zac was a complete one of a kind. He was funny, cheeky, kind, caring, courageous, and a big ball of fun with mischief running through his bones.”

Zac’s magnetic charm, coupled with his striking features and piercing blue eyes, left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Natalie and Lucy fondly remember how he had the innate ability to bring a smile to anyone’s face. “He was one of those kids who could walk into a room not knowing anyone but he would walk out with 100 new friends,” they remarked. “You were just drawn to him.”

A talented sportsman, Zac excelled in various disciplines, with football being his greatest passion. He played at county level and represented the Swansea City academy. Lucy attests that he possessed the talent to pursue a professional football career.

Additionally, he demonstrated his sporting prowess in rugby, where he was regarded as a superstar within his team. In August following his passing, Zac’s teammates organized a memorial football and rugby match to honor his memory and facilitate healing through open conversations.

Zac’s circle of friends had been together since the age of four, and their memories of him are cherished. Reflecting on the tragedy,

Natalie emphasised that it struck a chord with everyone, as it could have happened to any of them. Determined to ensure Zac’s memory endures, she intends to make this year’s fun day, scheduled for July 22 to coincide with Zac’s funeral anniversary, even more significant than the previous one.

Originally intended as a one-off event, the inaugural fun day garnered overwhelming support from the community, raising over £10,000, which was split between the Wales Air Ambulance and Angle RNLI, organizations that provided aid during Zac’s rescue. Subsequently, Forever11 attained official charity status, enabling them to focus on water safety and drowning prevention in Pembrokeshire.

The charity’s efforts thus far have included identifying and replacing broken or missing life-saving equipment, such as life rings and throw ropes, along the coastline.

Additionally, they conducted their first free water safety awareness course for 32 schoolchildren. However, their ambitions extend further, recognizing the importance of educating children in real-world beach scenarios.

Natalie observed that despite living in a coastal region, many children have not experienced the beach. While it is impossible to shield children from all dangers, raising awareness and providing knowledge about tides, winds, and water conditions can make a significant difference.

Natalie shared, “Living on the coast, it’s surprising the number of children who haven’t been to the beach.” Through their initiatives, Forever11 aims to instill a sense of vigilance and preparedness among young beachgoers.

Reflecting on the establishment of Forever11, the team stated, “Forever11 started out as a saying by Zac’s school and teammates. It’s something that resonated across the community as a symbol of our love and heartache – a loss that impacted and shocked everyone who knew him. We often talk about the rugby family, and for us, Zac was part of that family.”

This year’s fun day promises to be an engaging event, featuring a samba band, performances by the Kelly Williams school of dance, axe-throwing and archery by Paddle West, and music by Honey Fungus. Traditional stalls, a display by the Pembrokeshire fire spinners, and various inflatable attractions will also be available for attendees.

More details can be found on the Forever11 website as the community rallies together to honor the cherished memory of Zac Thompson and prevent future tragedies in the waters surrounding Pembrokeshire

Charity

Chief’s Tour honours fallen officers with 75-mile Pembrokeshire ride

Published

3 days ago

May 7, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Dyfed-Powys Police team raises thousands for bereaved police families charity

A TEAM of officers and staff from Dyfed-Powys Police cycled 75 miles across west Wales on Wednesday (May 6) in memory of colleagues who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The annual “Chief’s Tour of Pembs 2026” saw participants travel from Fishguard to Carmarthen while raising money for the charity Care of Police Survivors, commonly known as COPS.

The force said the event raised £2,690, with funds going towards support for the families of police officers who have died while serving their communities.

Along the route, cyclists stopped at several locations to meet relatives of fallen officers and take part in moments of reflection.

In a statement shared on social media, the force said the tour was held “in memory of all Dyfed-Powys Police officers who have lost their lives in service.”

The post added: “Those we’ve lost will always remain in our thoughts.”

COPS supports the families of officers who have died on duty by organising national and regional events, helping survivors build support networks and friendships with others who have experienced similar loss.

Dyfed-Powys Police thanked members of the public who supported the cyclists during the challenge.

“A huge thank you to our community for showing our Chief’s Tour cyclists support as they passed through Pembrokeshire,” the force said.

“Your cheers, waves and encouragement kept spirits high for those taking part.”

The 75-mile challenge took riders across parts of north and west Pembrokeshire before continuing east towards Carmarthenshire, combining physical endurance with remembrance and fundraising.

Police charities such as COPS often work quietly behind the scenes, supporting bereaved families long after national attention fades following the death of an officer.

Charity

Milford Haven Town Council Continues Support for Paul Sartori Hospice at Home

Published

3 days ago

May 7, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local residents by awarding funding to Paul Sartori Hospice at Home following a successful application for financial assistance.

The £500 contribution will help support the ongoing delivery of vital day and night home nursing care for people receiving end-of-life care in the Milford Haven area.

The Mayor of Milford Haven, Councillor William Elliott, said: “It is a privilege for Milford Haven Town Council to continue supporting this important and vital service, which provides much-needed care and reassurance to residents in our community when it is needed most.

The work of Paul Sartori is incredibly important, and we thank them for all they do — not only for people in Milford Haven, but across the whole county.”

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home is a registered charity providing high-quality end-of-life care and a wide range of free services to individuals and families throughout Pembrokeshire. Through an open referral system, patients, carers, and family members can access specialist clinical care, emotional support, guidance, and practical assistance, with many services delivered directly in patients’ homes.

A cheque for £500 was presented by the Mayor of Milford Haven to Judith Williams, Grant Development Officer at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home.

Judith Williams said: “We are extremely grateful to Milford Haven Town Council and its councillors for their continued support. Donations such as this make a real difference locally, helping us provide compassionate, dignified care to people in Milford Haven at the end of life.

Support from town and community councils not only helps sustain essential nursing services, but also reflects the strong partnership between Paul Sartori and the communities we serve. We truly value this ongoing commitment.”

The Paul Sartori nursing team currently provides approximately 150 hours of care each month within the Milford Haven area. Funding from Milford Haven Town Council will directly support local residents, enabling them to remain at home and receive professional, compassionate care surrounded by loved ones.

Alongside day and night nursing care, the charity also offers equipment loans, complementary therapies, bereavement and counselling support, and future care planning services — all free of charge and designed to maintain dignity, comfort, and independence for patients and families.

Families across Pembrokeshire living with a life-limiting illness can benefit from Paul Sartori Hospice at Home services. However, as a charitable organisation, the service relies heavily on the generosity of local communities, supporters, and fundraising initiatives to continue delivering this essential care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home is encouraging town and community councils across Pembrokeshire to consider supporting the charity to help ensure high-quality end-of-life care remains accessible throughout the county.

Photo Caption:

Judith Williams, Grant Development Officer at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, pictured with the Mayor of Milford Haven, Councillor William Elliott.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

4 days ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.