News

Neyland Councillor storms out of town council meeting amidst vote of no confidence

Published

2 years ago

July 5, 2023

IN A STUNNING turn of events, a Neyland councillor has dramatically stormed out of the monthly town council meeting following a contentious vote of no confidence, which he believes is completely at odds with the prevailing sentiment of his town’s inhabitants.

Councillor Peter Hay, a respected figure who has dutifully served on the town council for the past seven years, found himself at the center of a storm during the June meeting. A vote of no confidence was unexpectedly passed against him and three other councillors after allegations surfaced regarding secretive gatherings.

Expressing his dismay, Councillor Hay voiced his concerns to the local media stating, “That decision was utterly incongruous with the prevailing sentiment of the Neyland community, as per my interactions with its members. My name has been unjustly tarnished as a result of these accusations, and the electorate is now questioning my integrity. It’s truly disheartening.”

Clearly frustrated, Councillor Hay continued, “It appears that certain councillors are exploiting their positions within the town council to further their personal political agendas, and this is wholly unacceptable. It was due to these circumstances that I felt compelled to withdraw from Monday’s meeting.”

Councillor Hay remains uncertain about his future attendance at upcoming meetings, stating, “Naturally, I would like to see the vote of no confidence revoked, but more importantly, I long for the resolution of all these issues. The people of Neyland are growing weary of incessant squabbles month after month. I became a councillor to contribute to my town, as it is truly deserving of my dedication.”

Having diligently served on the town council for the past seven years, Councillor Hay has gone above and beyond his obligations, immersing himself in practical tasks and engaging in vigorous debates within the council chamber.

Councillor Hay reflected on his additional endeavors, noting, “Engaging in practical work is not an obligatory duty of a councillor. However, being a retired engineer, I possess the necessary skills, and moreover, I genuinely want to make a difference.”

This week’s town council meeting unraveled with members embroiled in a heated 90-minute dispute over the accuracy of the minutes from the previous month’s gathering. The proceedings took place on Zoom, with members of the public in attendance. One such attendee, identifying themselves as ‘a Neyland resident,’ expressed their exasperation in the chat, remarking, “Sarcasm, personal attacks… what a load of rubbish.”

The future of the Neyland town council hangs in the balance as divisions within its ranks persist, leaving its constituents longing for a return to harmony and a cessation of relentless turmoil.

Community

St Davids Cathedral strengthens spiritual ties with St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh

Published

9 hours ago

March 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE DEEP spiritual connection between Wales and Ireland was celebrated this St Patrick’s Day as Dean Sarah Rowland Jones of St Davids Cathedral presented prints of the icons of St David and St Patrick to Dean Shane Forster of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh (Anglican, Church of Ireland).

The presentation took place after Dean Sarah delivered a sermon at the St Patrick’s Day service in Armagh, where she spoke about the shared Christian heritage of the two patron saints and their enduring influence on the faith communities of both nations.

A legacy of faith and unity

St David and St Patrick, both pivotal figures in the early Christian church, played key roles in spreading the Gospel and establishing monastic traditions. Their legacies have continued to shape the spiritual landscapes of Wales and Ireland for centuries.

Dean Sarah reflected on these historical connections during her sermon, highlighting the common themes of faith, devotion, and service that unite the two saints. She also shared the last recorded words of St David with the congregation:

“Be joyful, keep the faith, and do the little things.”
“Byddwch lawen, cadwch y ffydd, a gwnewch y pethau bychain!”

These words, spoken by St David in the 6th century, remain central to the ethos of Welsh Christianity, encouraging believers to find meaning in small acts of kindness and faithfulness.

A symbolic exchange

The exchange of icon prints between the two cathedrals served as a symbol of ongoing friendship and unity between the Welsh and Irish Anglican communities. Both cathedrals hold significant historical and religious importance, drawing thousands of pilgrims each year who seek to connect with their deep Christian heritage.

Speaking about the event, Dean Sarah said: “The ties between St Davids and Armagh are more than just historical—they are deeply spiritual. We are reminded that the Christian faith transcends borders, uniting us through shared traditions, values, and a commitment to serving others.”

The service in Armagh marked yet another step in fostering a strong relationship between the two cathedrals, reinforcing the historic and spiritual bonds between Wales and Ireland.

News

Police confirm tragic death of teenage girl in Burton

Published

10 hours ago

March 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY services responded to a medical emergency at a property in Burton on Saturday (Mar 15).

Dyfed-Powys Police say they received a call reporting the incident at around 4:30pm.

Tragically, a 15-year-old girl has passed away, it has been confirmed.

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by a family liaison officer.

Police have confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report will be prepared for H.M. Coroner.

News

Three injured in A477 crash near Cleddau Bridge

Published

16 hours ago

March 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THREE people were taken to hospital following a collision on the A477 near Cleddau Bridge on Monday (Mar 17).

The crash, which involved three vehicles, happened shortly before 9:00am between Cleddau Bridge and Honeyborough roundabout. Emergency services attended the scene, and both lanes of the road were closed for nearly two hours.

One lane reopened at 10:45am, with the road fully cleared by 10:55am.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Police attended a three-vehicle road traffic collision which occurred on the A477 just before 9:00am. Three people were taken to hospital with what are believed to be minor injuries.”