Business
Offshore wind farms good habitats for lobsters – research

OFFSHORE wind farms could offer new habitats for lobsters and possible biodiversity benefits, according to new research by led by Aberystwyth University academics.
According to the study published in the ICES Journal of Marine Science, particular areas of habitat within offshore windfarms provide a suitable living environment for lobsters.
These new turbines placed off the coast are believed to create a type of artificial reef, adding a hard substrate into areas where there was once soft sediment.For the research, tens of lobsters were tagged within a windfarm in the Irish sea, and their movements tracked.
Monitored by the academics with acoustic telemetry, the animals could be observed living close to the areas of hard substrate within the wind farms.
The data indicates that these areas have the potential to provide suitable habitat for lobsters.Dr David Wilcockson from Aberystwyth University, who was one of the researchers on the project, said:“It is these kinds of rocks and boulders where lobsters normally shelter, and so these artificial reef effects we have seen are logical. The findings indicate that offshore wind farms could provide a suitable habitat for crustaceans. As well as the environmental benefits traditionally associated with wind farms, we are now seeing this as an extra biodiversity boost that should be considered by policy makers.
Harry Thatcher, a PhD student at Aberystwyth, and lead author of the study, commented:“The introduction of this hard substrate could also have other potential advantages.
By creating possible new habitats for lobsters, they could also offer sustainable fishing opportunities across Europe. Indeed, as some other sources disappear, this could be seen as a way of helping stocks for the fishing industry.”The research was led by academics at Aberystwyth University, alongside researchers at Plymouth and Newcastle Universities.
Business
Tenby Stores wins £5,000 award for community support

TENBY STORES has been recognised as a Local Retail Champion, earning a £5,000 prize from Allwyn’s National Lottery Social Value Fund for its outstanding community support.
The shop has been praised for its commitment to helping the local area, providing free fruit to schools, assisting with the community fridge, and ensuring elderly residents receive their groceries with care.
Henry Tufnell MP expressed his delight at the recognition, stating: “Small businesses like Tenby Stores are the backbone of our communities, and I couldn’t be prouder to see them celebrated.”
The award highlights the important role independent retailers play in supporting local people.
Business
Imperial Hotel in Tenby to host recruitment day with 20 job opportunities

TENBY’S IMPERIAL HOTEL is holding a recruitment open day tomorrow (Mar 19) as it looks to fill 20 roles ahead of a major refurbishment.
The event will take place at the hotel on The Paragon from 11:00am to 4:00pm, with positions available across various departments, including hospitality, kitchen, and housekeeping.
The hotel, now under the ownership of The Crest Hotel Group, is undergoing a transformation into a luxurious, family-friendly destination while maintaining its historic charm. The refurbishment will include a state-of-the-art kitchen, dog-friendly facilities, and panoramic views of South Beach and the Pembrokeshire coastline.
Liz Heneghan, Group Director of People & Culture at Crest Hotels Group, said: “We’re not just offering jobs; we’re investing in our community. These 20 positions represent our commitment to providing meaningful employment opportunities right here in Tenby. We want to build a team of passionate individuals who are ready to contribute to the Imperial’s exciting future and deliver exceptional guest experiences.”
Job roles available
The hotel is seeking to recruit:
- Culinary roles: Head Chef, Sous Chef, and Chef de Partie
- Hospitality staff: Guest Service Assistants (Front of House and Food & Beverage)
- Management: Food & Beverage Manager
- Housekeeping: Housekeeping Assistants
Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work in a newly refurbished setting with high-quality ingredients and a dynamic team, contributing to the revitalisation of one of Tenby’s landmark hotels.
How to apply
Those interested can attend the recruitment open day tomorrow or apply via Indeed and Caterer. Applications can also be submitted by emailing recruitment@cresthotelsgroup.com.

Business
New fish and chip shop opens in St Davids to meet local demand

A NEW fish and chip shop has opened in St Davids, offering residents and visitors an additional takeaway option in the popular tourist destination.
St Davids Fish and Chips, located on St Davids High Street, opened its doors on February 11. The business is run by Jay Babahan, who has lived in Pembrokeshire for 25 years and wanted to provide more choice for the local community.

“There was a clear demand for another takeaway in St Davids, as we only had one other option,” said Mr Babahan. “Since opening, the response has been fantastic. We’re in a busy area, and we expect trade to pick up even more during the summer months.”
The shop prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish and Pembrokeshire-grown potatoes. Mr Babahan, who has supported local sports teams through his previous businesses, hopes to continue giving back to the community.
“We’ve always wanted to contribute to the local area,” he said. “We’re happy to be here and are committed to serving top-quality fish and chips. Our goal is to establish ourselves as the best in the area.”
Shortly after opening, the shop was inspected for food hygiene, and Mr Babahan is confident of securing the highest possible rating of five.
“We have a great team and loyal customers already,” he added. “We offer a variety of meals, including kebabs, and are looking forward to a busy season ahead.”
Despite being open for only a month, St Davids Fish and Chips has already achieved a 90% recommendation rating on Facebook, with customers praising the food, service, and cleanliness.

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