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A joyous conclusion to Pererin Wyf at St Davids Cathedral

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THE ENCHANTING journey of Pererin Wyf, SPAN Art’s diaspora song mapping project, reached its grand finale at St Davids Cathedral.

Led by Côr Pawb, a vibrant community choir, the celebration event called Pererin Wyf – Y Canu Mawr brought together a multitude of voices for a magnificent a cappella rendition of the Welsh hymn, Pererin Wyf.

The project has been funded by Ancient Connections, a four-year project linking Wexford and Pembrokeshire, funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Ireland Wales Co-operation Programme.

Pererin Wyf has been led by artist Rowan O’Neill and centred on the hymn composed by William Williams. It aimed to unite the Welsh and Irish diaspora, focusing on the newly established pilgrimage route from Ferns in Wexford to St Davids in Pembrokeshire; the Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way.

From last September, people from around the world have been invited to sing and record this soul-stirring hymn, or any song that has the power to call them back home and to pin that recording to an online interactive map. This simple act connects participants from all corners of the globe.

Ever since Welsh singer Iris Williams recorded the hymn to the tune of Amazing Grace in 1971, it has captivated hearts and minds.

The hymn was arranged for the event in St Davids by Côr Pawb’s talented choir leader Molara Awen. 

The concert began with a warm welcome from Cathedral Dean Sarah Rowland Jones, followed by speeches from Councillor Thomas Tudor, the Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, and Aidan Brown from Wexford County Council.

The audience was treated to a captivating series of pilgrimage-related songs, leading up to the spine-tingling premiere of a new trilingual macaronic song An Dara Craiceann (The Second Skin), crafted in English, Welsh and Irish by Rachel Uí Fhaoláin as part of the project.

Visitors watched the short film that documented the project’s incredible journey. Created by radio producer Paul Evans and filmmakers Jacob Whittaker and John Ó Fáolain in collaboration with Rowan O’Neill.

The film showcased the voices of those who participated in the project, offering a glimpse into the broader Ancient Connections initiative. This film was presented as part of the Pilgrim Fayre organised by Small World Theatre in the Bishop’s Palace, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Over the past nine months, the Pererin Wyf project has included a series of online workshops with world-class speakers exploring the themes of language, identity, travel, and song.

The Pererin Wyf / Is Oilithreach Mé / I am a Pilgrim project was devised, developed and produced by Rowan O’Neill in collaboration with SPAN Arts and co-facilitated in Wexford by Irish artists Rachel Uí Fhaoláin from Ceol Mo Chroí and John Ó Faoláin from the Traditional Archive Channel, and in West Wales by sound artist and film maker Jacob Whittaker.  Alan Cameron Wills contributed his expertise in map coding, adding another layer of innovation to the project.

For more information about Pererin Wyf Is Oilithreach Mé I am a pilgrim visit Span Arts www.span-arts.org.uk

Community

Public meeting for Haverfordwest’s new transport interchange

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RESIDENTS of Haverfordwest are invited to attend a public engagement event at HaverHub on Thursday, 21st November from 3:00pm to 7:00pm to meet the team behind the upcoming Public Transport Interchange (PTI) development. The event will provide an opportunity for local people to learn more about the exciting project, which is due to start its rebuild phase imminently.

The PTI scheme forms part of the broader South West Wales Metro project, designed to create a modern, integrated transport hub for Haverfordwest. The new facility will bring significant improvements to local transport infrastructure, including enhancements to pedestrian and cycle access, as well as a more efficient and accessible bus station.

Cllr Paul Miller, Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, and Climate Change, said: “This is another exciting step in the extensive regeneration of Haverfordwest, and we look forward to seeing construction start on this important project.”

The new development will include seven bus bays, upgraded passenger facilities, and a multi-storey car park with around 280 spaces. The car park will also feature electric vehicle charging points, with provisions for future expansion, as well as solar panels on the roof. These green features are part of the project’s commitment to sustainability and the promotion of Active Travel, with a focus on walking and cycling.

Cllr Thomas Tudor, County Councillor for the Castle Ward, welcomed the public engagement event, saying: “This is a great opportunity for residents to come together and learn more about the ongoing regeneration projects that will improve the town for everyone.”

The PTI project will also improve car parking provision and local bus access at Haverfordwest railway station, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable transport network for the town.

Jason Taylor, Regional Director at Kier Construction, said: “We are excited to meet the people of Haverfordwest and share the plans for this important project. Kier is proud of its Welsh heritage and thrilled to contribute to the town’s development.”

Kier Construction, which has been awarded the contract to build the PTI, will also have a presence at Riverside Shopping Centre, where residents can drop in for more information once work begins this month.

Please note that the temporary Riverside car park has closed to make way for the development.

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Business

Cilgerran cafe could close but a new one could open as plans submitted

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A CALL to convert a Pembrokeshire village café back to a house, while another ongoing scheme in the same village seeks to convert a house to a café, have been submitted to county planners.

David McDonald, through agent Acer Town Planning, seeks permission to change the use of the ground floor of Awelfa, High Street, Cilgerran from a café to being used as part of the attached dwelling.

A supporting statement, through the agent, says Adele’s café at Awelfa, High Street was originally a dwelling but has seen mixed commercial use for decades.

“Prior to opening as Adele’s café by the applicant, the ground floor commercial use had been vacant for around two years having previously been operated as a Chinese takeaway.

“The current owners took over the rental of the property in April 2019 (purchasing in October 2020) and have operated Adele’s café from the premises between June 2019 and August 2024 whilst living in the linked dwellinghouse.

“During this period, the Awelfa, Cilgerran business has been under prolonged and sustained economic pressures from the cost-of-living crisis with the subsequent increases in utility and food costs and minimum wages.

“Summers 2023 and 2024 saw a significant drop in trade from both local customers and, in particular, a drop in the number of tourists visiting the area.  The closure of the toilets and visitors centre at Cilgerran Castle is considered to have contributed to this reduction in visitor numbers.

“The business was closed during January due to low trade and opened again in February for three days a week and then four days a week from April.  Even with reduced opening hours the business has not been viable for the applicant to continue operating.  The reluctant decision was therefore made to sell the property and trading ceased on August 24.”

The statement says was put up for sale with no offers to buy despite several price reductions, with only three viewings in total.

“In order to increase the pool of buyers for the property, the applicant is now applying for the change of use of the café areas back to form part of the residential use of the main dwelling (as per the original building),” the statement adds.

It also references an unrelated application to convert The Old Post House, High Street, owned by nearby village stores Siop Y Pentre, from a dwelling to a café and flat, saying it “could act as a replacement facility for the community”.

Both applications are currently before planners and are expected to be considered at a later date.

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Community

Waldo Lounge in Haverfordwest is now officially open!

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WALDO Lounge has officially joined Haverfordwest High Street, promising to be a “home-from-home” with a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of offerings for the community.

The venue offers an all-day menu featuring everything from hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, with dedicated gluten-free and vegan menus ensuring there’s something for everyone. Guests can enjoy a relaxed environment complete with board games for all ages, toys for younger visitors, and even refreshments for canine companions. Whether you’re stopping by for coffee with friends, a family brunch, or an evening meal, Waldo Lounge aims to create a space where every customer leaves happy.

The ground floor of the Western Quayside development has been transformed by Loungers PLC into a cosy yet stylish haven. Highlights include vibrant wallpapers, Gothic chandeliers, vintage sofas, and a back bar mural that nods to Haverfordwest’s mediaeval past.

Gemma Irwin, Head of Community at Loungers, shared her enthusiasm for the opening:
“We are delighted to bring Waldo Lounge to Haverfordwest. At Loungers, we put community at the heart of hospitality. Our teams are encouraged to connect with local groups, charities, and businesses, making a meaningful difference. We can’t wait to welcome residents to our new home.”

The venue’s family-friendly ethos extends to providing high chairs, baby-changing facilities, and a selection of games and activities for younger guests. With this combination of features, Waldo Lounge seeks to become a central hub for the community.

Council leaders have praised the addition to Haverfordwest’s town centre. Pembrokeshire County Council Leader, Cllr Jon Harvey, commented: “This is a fantastic addition to the hospitality sector in Haverfordwest. Waldo Lounge will undoubtedly improve footfall and vibrancy, showcasing Western Quayside as a key asset to our town.”

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, Cllr Paul Miller, added: “Loungers shares our vision for Western Quayside, and this opening represents a significant step in regenerating Haverfordwest. It’s exciting to see the area evolving into a great place to live, work, and visit.”

Paul McGeown, a Site Manager for Loungers who oversaw the Waldo Lounge project, shared his experience: “The project itself was an enjoyable one, and the community were great and very welcoming. I’ve been with Loungers for over seven years now, working nationally since October 2017, and it’s been amazing to be part of such a rapidly expanding and fantastic company. My family lives in Pembrokeshire, so I’ll definitely be visiting Waldo Lounge when I’m there on holiday. I wish the team every success in their new home!”

With its eclectic design, varied menu, and community focus, Waldo Lounge is poised to become a firm favourite among residents and visitors alike.

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