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RNLI father and son duo take to the beach to celebrate Father’s Day

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WITH Father’s Day this Sunday (18 June), Pembrokeshire Lifeguards welcome a Father and Son duo to their team.

Tom Owen (49) and Cai Owen (16) are from Haverfordwest in West Wales. Tom joined the RNLI last summer as a lifeguard in North Pembrokeshire, his son is following in his footsteps in joining the team this season.

As a 49-year-old, Tom is the most senior Lifeguard in North Pembrokeshire’s team. When asked about how he got into the job he responded:

‘The seed was sown when in school I completed the old bronze medallion lifesaving award. I then had the opportunity to work as a beach lifeguard for the local council before the RNLI days during my summer holidays. My interest grew whilst in Australia, so I spent a couple of summers out there volunteering mainly for surf lifesaving clubs.

Joining the RNLI has always appealed to me and now that my children are old enough, I took the opportunity to give it a go. My interests outside work mainly include surfing, cycling and trying to stay fit.

My age was never a consideration of mine when applying for the job. I’ve always enjoyed working in a team who share the same goals and work ethic. Even despite the 30-year age gap between most, I don’t feel out of place. I joined the team in 2022, it’s great to be outside on local beaches where I grew up. It’s hugely satisfying knowing I’m helping to provide a safe place for all to use.

I’m excited for my son Cai to join the team. I’m proud of him for smashing his fitness tests and I’m looking forward to working alongside him. Hopefully, we’ll get a shift together on Father’s Day! It’ll be nice to spend time together before he grows up completely.

I hope other people of my age see that lifeguarding isn’t just for youngsters. If you’re still fit and healthy give it a go, you won’t regret it.’

Cai who will be starting with the RNLI in the next week said: ‘I’m really looking forward to my first shift at the beach. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for years as I’ve always been a keen swimmer and surfer.

I’ve enjoyed training and competing with Porthmawr Surf Life Saving Club as a junior and now senior. This has given me the skills and familiarised me with the lifesaving environment.

I’ve just finished my first year of sixth form. Outside of school I spend my time chasing the surf and going to the gym. I’m looking forward to getting experience on the beaches and getting my uniform!

It’s going to be fun working with Dad. I’m hoping he won’t embarrass me too much! I can’t wait to see him continue to try to beat me in our fitness tests. Happy Father’s Day!’

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

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WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

What a pleasant surprise: The fantastic news is delivered (Pic: Lord Nelson Hotel)
The Lord Nelson Hotel in Milford Haven on carnival day
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Crime

Police hunt driver after dog walker killed in Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

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A PEDESTRIAN walking his dog has died after being struck in a hit-and-run collision on a Carmarthenshire road on Monday (December 23).

The incident occurred in Llanpumsaint, near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel, between 6:45pm and 7:45pm.

The road remains closed, and police are urgently appealing for information to locate the driver of a blue vehicle believed to have fled the scene.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are actively searching for the driver of a blue vehicle with noticeable damage, which was involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire. The driver left the scene, and locating them is now our top priority.

“We are appealing directly to the driver to do the right thing and come forward. Additionally, we urge anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.

“This collision, which tragically resulted in the death of a pedestrian, happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm on Monday, December 23, as the man was walking his dog.

“Our investigation indicates the vehicle was travelling northbound through Llanpumsaint at the time of the incident.”

The road is expected to remain closed for some time while enquiries continue. Police stress that any piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial in identifying and locating the driver. Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

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News

Pembrokeshire County Council invites public feedback on budget plans

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PEMBROKESHIRE County Council is calling on residents to share their views on the upcoming budget as it faces significant financial pressures.

The consultation, open until January 5, aims to identify which services are most valued by the community and where savings could be made.

An update on the provisional funding settlement from the Welsh Government was presented to the full council last week. Councillor Joshua Beynon, Cabinet Member for Finance and Efficiencies, noted that while the 3.6% increase—equating to an additional £8.1 million—was more favourable than expected, it still leaves a funding gap of approximately £28.1 million.

Councillor Beynon said: “Difficult decisions lie ahead despite the improved settlement. We need to prioritise services that matter most to our residents.”

Detailed reports on the settlement’s impact and the projected funding shortfall will be discussed by the cabinet and scrutiny committees early next year, before being presented to the full council in February.

Residents can have their say by completing an online response form available on the council’s website. A budget modelling tool is also provided for public use.

Paper copies of the response form can be requested by calling 01437 764551 or emailing [email protected].

All responses must be submitted by January 5.

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