IN a stark warning ahead of the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham, Welsh Conservative Senedd leader Andrew RT Davies has declared that the party faces an “existential crisis” and must urgently reform or “die” following its catastrophic defeat in the recent general election.

Mr. Davies insisted that the party must issue an apology to both the Welsh and British public for failing to fulfil its immigration pledges. He stressed the innate conservative values of the Welsh electorate, suggesting that a return to these principles could secure future electoral victories.

Addressing party members and activists at the Birmingham’s International Convention Centre, he highlighted the alienation of Welsh voters caused by the party’s “dogmatic” economic policies. Mr. Davies argued for a shift towards practical economic solutions to address perceived inequalities and injustices.

On the topic of immigration, Mr. Davies advocated for a “zero tolerance” stance, calling for swift deportations of those in the UK illegally. This, he claimed, is necessary to address the challenges posed by globalisation and mass migration, which he believes have undermined Welsh communities and industries.

The leader also criticised the Labour Welsh government for its “extreme metropolitan worldview and soft nationalism,” which he blamed for prioritising policies like 20mph speed limits and the expansion of the Senedd over improving public services such as the NHS and education.

In a candid admission, Mr. Davies acknowledged the need for the Conservative Party to overhaul its image and approach, particularly concerning economic issues, urging a move away from ideological rigidity towards pragmatic realism.

“By proudly reflecting our conservative values, we will persuade [voters] to back the Welsh Conservatives,” he asserted. “But we must also change how we are perceived on the economy. We must be seen as pragmatists, not ideologues.”

Mr. Davies concluded with a dire forecast: “If our party changes, we’ll recover quickly, and we’ll succeed in 2026 and 2029. But if we don’t, we’ll die. That’s the choice.”

The conference continues as the party debates the direction and policies that Mr. Davies has put forward, with the shadow Welsh Secretary, Byron Davies, also emphasising the need for a robust policy platform beyond mere criticism of the Welsh Labour government.

THE ROYAL Voluntary Service is calling on residents in Pembrokeshire to play their part as volunteer drivers.

The charity is urgently looking to recruit 10 volunteer drivers to drive people to medical appointments.

The call comes as new research by the charity paints a stark picture of the difficulties faced by non-drivers including increased isolation, missed medical appointments and declining mental health.

The research found nearly half (46%) of non-drivers¹ over 70 have missed healthcare appointments due to a lack of transportation, and of these, 96% have missed more than one². One in five (40%) respondents are also missing the independence driving provided and report feeling frustrated (35%), isolated (20%) and trapped (24%). One in four respondents (25%) say not driving has negatively impacted their happiness.

Volunteer Drivers make a big difference by offering both practical and emotional support. More than just getting someone from A to B, volunteers help combat isolation and support wellbeing by providing a friendly face and a chance to chat, something particularly valued by those who may struggle to get out as much as they would like.

Simon Rickard, Service Manager for Royal Voluntary Service said: “Our research highlights the serious impact not having access to transport can have on people’s lives, particularly the isolation and anxiety it can cause. Our Volunteer Drivers play a vital role in counteracting these effects, offering not just transport but a crucial connection to the community. We’re urging locals to join our volunteer team in Pembrokeshire. Just a few hours of your time could make a world of difference to the health, and happiness, of the person in your passenger seat.”

Volunteer Drivers use their own vehicles to provide transport for local people. Royal Voluntary Service will provide all necessary training and travel expenses are reimbursed. This role offers flexible hours, allowing volunteers to choose how much time they would like to contribute. By giving even just a couple of hours, a volunteer can make a big difference to someone’s wellbeing and happiness.

Volunteer driving is just one of the rewarding roles available with Royal Voluntary Service, people looking to find out more and play their part in supporting their community in Pembrokeshire can visit: royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/volunteering

PEMBROKESHIRE experienced a fairly violent storm on Sunday (Sept 29) leading to road closures, an emergency school shutdown, and ongoing flood warnings due to strong winds and torrential rain.

Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed the closure of several roads as a result of fallen trees. Notably, Ivy Chimney Lane in Stepaside and the B4316 near Saundersfoot Primary School are closed. The nearby school will consequently remain shut on Monday until it is safe to remove the tree causing the obstruction.

Furthermore, Holyland Road in Pembroke is pending clearance as contractors have yet to address the blockage. While the northern part of the county has seen roads reopen following prompt and effective clearing operations, southern areas are bracing for more disruptions. Clearance teams are set to address tree debris on various routes including from Stepaside to Summer Hill and on the A4075 from Carew to Canaston Bridge.

In response to the crisis, the council has urged drivers to exercise caution and use the “what3words” service for precise reporting of obstructions.

The Met Office has issued two separate weather warnings for Wales: a wind warning effective from 9 AM to midnight on Sunday, and a rain warning from 4 PM Sunday to 9 AM Monday. Both warnings predict significant disruptions, with wind gusts potentially exceeding 60 mph in exposed areas, leading to further risks of power outages and structural damage.

Residents are advised to prepare for large waves, possible flooding, and additional power cuts as the storm continues to affect large parts of Wales. The overlapping weather warnings cover multiple counties including Bridgend, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have advised the public to stay informed through local news and the council’s social media updates. The community is encouraged to secure any loose items outdoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm peak to ensure safety.

(Cover photo: Gary Thomas)