News

Triple murder shocks Nottingham: Former Pembrokeshire resident charged

Published

3 years ago

June 16, 2023

NOTTINGHAM was rocked by a series of brutal attacks that left three individuals dead and three others injured. The suspect, Valdo Amissão Mendes Calocane, a 31-year-old man with ties to Pembrokeshire, has been charged with three counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder.

Calocane, who had grown up in Haverfordwest and attended St Thomas Picton School, later graduated from the University of Nottingham.

The charges stem from the murders of two University of Nottingham students, 19-year-old Barnaby Philip John Webber and Grace Sashi O’Malley-Kumar, as well as 65-year-old Ian Robert Coates. The fatal stabbings occurred in Ilkeston Road and Magdala Road, respectively. Calocane is also accused of carrying out three additional acts of attempted murder involving pedestrians who were struck by a stolen van.

Chief Constable Kate Meynell of Nottinghamshire Police stated, “These charges are a significant development and arise as a result of our thorough investigation into these horrific incidents that occurred in our city. Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all those affected by these attacks, and we will continue to provide support and reassurance.”

The suspect was apprehended in the early hours of Tuesday, June 13, shortly after the incidents took place. Since then, an extensive investigation has been underway, with dedicated detectives utilizing CCTV footage, forensic evidence, eyewitness testimonies, and searches of various properties throughout the city to piece together the events leading up to the attacks.

According to police reports, after the initial attack on Ilkeston Road, Calocane proceeded on foot to a supported living complex on Mapperley Road but was denied entry. This incident, unfortunately, went unreported to the police at the time. Undeterred, the assailant continued to Magdala Road, where he brutally murdered Ian Robert Coates and subsequently stole his van. The suspect then targeted a man on Milton Street, attempting to run him over, resulting in the victim being left in a serious condition. Two other pedestrians in the Sherwood Street area were also victims of attempted vehicular assault, suffering minor injuries.

Nottinghamshire Police have referred the part of the incident involving the police car’s pursuit of the suspect’s van to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for investigation. The collision with the two pedestrians prompted the use of a taser by the authorities, leading to the suspect’s detainment.

The families of the victims are currently receiving support from specially trained officers during this devastating time. Assistance is also available for anyone affected by Tuesday’s attacks through Nottinghamshire Victim CARE. The helpline (0800 304 7575) operates Monday to Friday from 8 am to 8 pm, and on Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm.

Nottinghamshire and the entire nation are coming to terms with the profound impact of these shocking events. Chief Constable Kate Meynell urged the public to refrain from posting prejudicial information online, as it could potentially jeopardize the ongoing legal proceedings. The utmost respect for the families’ privacy is requested, allowing them to mourn their loved ones in peace.

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

Published

12 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A 20-YEAR-OLD man remains in a critical condition in hospital after being seriously assaulted in New Quay.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident happened at around 12:51am on Saturday (July 4) in Margaret Street, leading to Uplands Square.

The victim suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody.

Police said enquiries are progressing, led by CID and the Major Crime Team. A visible police presence is expected to remain in the area over the coming days.

Officers are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], by direct message on social media, or by calling 101.

Quote reference: DP-20260704-028.

Community

Kilgetty and Begelly tractor run raises funds for local charities

Published

14 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Around 70 tractors joined the annual charity road run, hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel

THE ANNUAL Kilgetty and Begelly Charity Tractor Run brought a colourful convoy to the roads around the Narberth area on Saturday (Jul 4), with around 70 tractors taking part.

The event was hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel, where farmers, families and supporters gathered before the start of the run.

Entrants were treated to bacon rolls and coffee by the hosts before setting off, while many families took the opportunity to pose for photographs alongside the tractors.

The road run once again proved to be a popular community event, bringing together local farmers, vintage tractor enthusiasts and supporters for a good cause.

The sight of dozens of tractors heading out together made an impressive display as the convoy travelled through the local area.

Organisers said local charities are set to benefit from money raised at the event.

The annual run has become a well-supported fixture in the local calendar, with farming families turning out in force to take part and support the fundraising effort.

For further information, contact Peter Adams at the Begelly Arms on 01834 812601.

Pictures: Malcolm Richards

Community

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival brings village together for colourful celebration

Published

14 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PONTRHYDFENDIGAID Carnival returned in style on Saturday, with a strong community turnout as villagers, families, children and young people gathered on the Village Green before the procession moved on to Bont Pavilion.

The afternoon was full of colour, music and community spirit, with bunting, balloons, decorated floats and smiling faces helping to create a true village celebration.

Among the highlights were the children’s and young people’s entries, which showed real creativity, confidence and effort. Farmyard scenes, animal costumes, a Noah’s Ark-themed float and brightly decorated tableaux all helped bring the carnival to life.

Organisers praised the work that had gone into the displays, competitions and activities, with many families clearly spending hours preparing costumes, props and entries.

The carnival programme featured a wide range of competitions, including floats and tableaux, children’s age-group entries, adverts, pairs, “anything on wheels” and the ever-popular welly throwing competition.

The mix of Welsh and English throughout the event reflected the strong local identity of Pontrhydfendigaid and the importance of keeping village traditions alive for the next generation.

Thanks were also paid to the organisers, volunteers, presidents, compères, families and all those who gave their time behind the scenes. Events of this kind take a great deal of work, and the turnout showed how much the carnival continues to mean to the community.

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival 2026 proved to be a joyful reminder of what can be achieved when a village comes together.

Photographs and report by Jeremy Rundle