News

Large turn-out for candlelight vigil

Published

10 years ago

August 18, 2014

THE LARGE turn-out for Monday night’s candlelit vigil in Pembroke Castle took the organisers completely by surprise, according to Gareth Jones, Chairman of the Royal British Legion for Pembroke and Pembroke Dock. “It was outstanding,” he explained. “We had planned for twenty maybe thirty people but there were more than a hundred present. It clearly touched enough people to make a real difference” The Light’s Out vigil, which was led by the Vicar of Pembroke Rev Roger Jones, included readings and hymns as well as a memorable solo by Natasha Djkoto of Westgate Chapel.

The commemoration, which marked the centenary of the outbreak of war in August 1914, began at 10pm in the castle grounds and drew to a fitting conclusion around the cenotaph almost an hour later. It was at this point the congregation stood in silence to honour more than 240 local heroes who had given their lives in a war that was supposed to end all wars. As 11pm approached every candles was extinguished and the large crowd moved away in a poignant silence, leaving a solitary unlit candle nestling among two wreaths at the base of the cenotaph. Clive Collins, Town Councillor and Trustee of the Castle, said “It was a privilege to be there to honour those who gave so much so that we can enjoy the freedoms we possess today.

No one can give more than to give your life and I can feel a shiver down my back even now as I think of what those boys gave. I was there to support their memory, to support our town and this castle. In addition to this I am also a school governor and want to show the children of the area what they can look up to”. Pastor Rob James, who expressed his thanks to the organisers and the vicar for being asked to assist in the vigil, added: “I was particularly thrilled to be allowed to read one of the most powerful passages you will find in the Bible. Jesus said ‘No one has greater love than this than that he is willing to lay down his life for his friends’. I guess we can honour their memory in no finer way than by heeding his call to love one another as we enjoy the freedom they have bequeathed us.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

5 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

19 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

19 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.