News

Police apologise to councillor for lack of action over alleged homophobic threats

Published

2 years ago

June 21, 2023

DYFED-POWYS POLICE has issued a public apology to a Pembrokeshire County Councillor who after making a complaint about hate crime, waited years to be told no action would be taken.

The police have now said they are sorry to 25-year-old Joshua Beynon following a protracted investigation into a series of distressing homophobic, sexual, and violent threats.

The probe, which spanned nearly three years, has left Beynon feeling disillusioned, considering himself “like some criminal,” and hesitant to report similar crimes in the future. The belated apology from the police force acknowledged that the investigation fell short of the expected standard.

Beynon, a resident of Pembroke Dock, disclosed that he has endured immense anxiety as a result of the prolonged investigation’s toll on his mental well-being.

Expressing his disappointment, he stated, “What I saw was an organization that couldn’t be bothered to actually deal with it.” The incidents of abuse began in the summer of 2020 when Beynon, a Pembrokeshire councillor, advocated for illuminating County Hall in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, inciting a backlash.

**Cllr Beynon on walk around his ward with PCSO Bland**

As an openly gay politician who voiced support for refugees, Beynon faced relentless abuse in the form of a coordinated campaign involving explicit homophobic and racist messages, some of which threatened sexual and physical violence. He confided, “It was that kind of anxiety you have that, ‘are these social media comments or threats going to materialize into something physical one day?'”

Initially hesitant to report the abuse, the situation escalated when Beynon received a threatening message delivered to his doorstep. Fearing for his safety, he dialed the non-emergency police hotline (101) multiple times but received no response. In a state of panic upon encountering another online threat, he resorted to calling 999, only for the police to arrive four days later.

Beynon cited the lack of communication from Dyfed-Powys Police and labeled their response as “extremely poor.”

“I was extremely distressed; it’s probably fair to say worried about my safety, you know, afraid to go out checking if doors were locked. It completely destroyed my mental health,” expressed Beynon, acknowledging that he did not solely blame the police for his ordeal. He emphasized that if he had witnessed genuine action or perceived sincere efforts on their part, he would have felt somewhat reassured.

In a disheartening turn of events, the police misplaced Beynon’s evidence, which he had submitted via a secure online portal. Consequently, he was forced to resubmit the material and recount his experiences on multiple occasions. Additionally, the authorities admitted to overlooking the need to interview a suspect, and at one stage, his case was lost within the system, failing to alert an officer to review it. During a statement-giving session at the police station, officers recorded Beynon on body-worn cameras while cautioning him against overreacting when informed that they would not be pursuing charges. This experience left Beynon transitioning from “feeling like a victim, to feeling like you’re some criminal.”

The culmination came in March when Beynon was informed that his case was being dropped. Dyfed-Powys Police issued an apology for the “lapse in service” and assured the public of a “full and thorough investigation” into the reported hate crime. One of the individuals involved in the abuse was issued a Community Protection Notice, yet when it was violated, Beynon reported it to the police, but no action was taken. Expressing his growing disillusionment, he revealed, “I’ve not reported stuff that I’ve seen towards me as in hate crime in more recent months because I haven’t seen the point.”

In response, Dyfed-Powys Police emphasized their commitment to effectively respond and thoroughly investigate reports of hate crimes, ensuring that victims receive appropriate support.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

1 hour ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

1 hour ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

1 hour ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards