News
We’re selling ‘Britain’s cheapest 99 ice cream’ to tackle rising cost of living’
A POPULAR WEST WALES seaside store is making waves by offering customers a delightful summer treat at an unbeatable price.
Andy and Julie Sweetman, owners of The Beach Shack in Pendine, Carmarthenshire, have decided to slash the cost of their beloved ’99’ ice cream cones to an astonishing 99 pence.
Their mission, they told Herald.Wales, is to ensure that everyone can enjoy a refreshing ice cream on a sunny day without breaking the bank, especially during the current cost of living crisis.
The initiative, aptly named ’99 for 99′, aims to counter the soaring prices reported by other ice cream vendors in tourist hotspots, some charging as much as £5 per cone. Having operated their beachfront establishment for five years, Andy and Julie are no strangers to offering value for money. In addition to the reduced price, the couple also provides free sauces and sprinkles, a gesture not commonly found elsewhere.
Andy explained, “We just thought maybe this would be a good promotional thing, but also we could do it so that it’s accessible for everybody. Last year, I was doing a small Whippy for £1.50. At the moment, a small Whippy is £2.50, which is still competitive and you get a pretty nice ice cream for that. But if you come to our shop – as I’m sure that most of our customers would tell you, you will get an ice cream worth your money.”
Excitement fills the air as the couple eagerly launches their new campaign. Andy anticipates a surge in customers, saying, “If we are doing 99 for 99, then it will be busier, I would have thought. I’m going to make sure I have plenty of mixture before I go. We’ll see how it goes.”
The Beach Shack is more than an ice cream destination, as it also offers various beach essentials such as buckets, spades, inflatables, and balls for families seeking a complete seaside experience.
However, Andy acknowledges the challenges posed by rising costs. He expressed concern over the price increases in scoop ice cream and the expensive waffle cones, which have affected the business. Striking the delicate balance between providing value for money and ensuring profitability remains a constant challenge.
Interestingly, the iconic ’99’ ice cream earned its name long before the current price tag associated with it. Cadbury introduced the first-ever flake 99 in the 1920s when its cost was much closer to a mere penny rather than today’s 99 pence.
As families across the country face the impact of inflation, with rising fuel and food prices, finding affordable ways to enjoy a few days away has become a priority. Some families are opting for cost-saving measures such as picnics instead of dining out at cafes and restaurants.
Amidst these financial challenges, The Beach Shack’s initiative to provide “Britain’s cheapest 99 ice cream” serves as a ray of sunshine for beachgoers seeking an affordable indulgence during their seaside adventures.
Community
Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day
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.”
Crime
Police hunt driver after dog walker killed in Carmarthenshire hit-and-run
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.
News
Pembrokeshire County Council invites public feedback on budget plans
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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