Community

Pembroke’s River Rally: Flotilla honours town’s maritime heritage

Published

2 years ago

July 5, 2023

PEMBROKE witnessed a vibrant spectacle as a colourful flotilla adorned the waters for the annual River Rally. The event, which has been a cherished tradition for almost three decades, was organized by the esteemed West Wales Maritime Heritage Society, except for a pandemic-induced hiatus.

With deep-rooted ties to the maritime history of the ancient port of Pembroke, the rally serves as a testament to the enduring rights of navigation for sailors on the Pembroke River and those seeking entry into the Castle Pond.

On Saturday, July 1, despite the blustery conditions, the River Rally commenced with the civic party embarking on the flagship vessel Hey Jude from Neyland Marina. Basking in the sun, the flotilla was escorted by a boat from the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society, while the vigilant Milford Haven Port Authority water ranger kept a watchful eye over the proceedings.

Among the distinguished guests on board Hey Jude were Pembroke’s mayor and mayoress, Cllr Aden Brinn and Claire Dufresnoy, accompanied by Pembroke Dock’s mayor, Cllr George Manning, and the deputy mayor, Cllr Maria Williams.

During the voyage, Cllr Brinn delivered a proclamation that illuminated the port’s rich history, tracing back centuries when it served as a bustling hub for the import and export of various cargoes. The Custom House, which still stands adjacent to the Corn Store, collected dues for these valuable shipments.

Cllr Brinn further remarked, “Subsequently, these cargoes were transported to Haverfordwest. However, even after Haverfordwest ceased trading, ships continued to dock at Pembroke. Renowned vessels like the Kathleen and May, Garlandstone, and Irene persevered in trade until 1960, unloading their precious cargo at what is now the Corn Store.”

“When trade eventually ceased, pleasure sailors sought solace in the town. Yet, their journey was marred by the construction of a flood prevention barrage across the river, impeding their right to navigate the Pembroke River,” he continued.

“As a result, the mayor of Pembroke entrusted the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society with the task of organizing the inaugural Pembroke River Rally in 1995.”

To complement the nautical festivities, the Pembroke Town Council arranged a delightful array of entertainment on the quayside. Neil Thomas, a talented compere, regaled the audience with songs, adding a cheerful touch to the afternoon. Local craft stalls and charity organizations, including the RNLI, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Lions, and Pembroke Town Teams, were also present, showcasing their valuable contributions to the community.

As the flotilla gracefully sailed into the Castle Pond, the town rejoiced in preserving its maritime legacy and paying tribute to the seafaring heritage that has shaped Pembroke’s identity throughout the ages.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

2 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

1 day ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

1 day ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)