News

Archaeological excavations fail to uncover medieval priory at Cardigan Hospital site

Published

1 year ago

July 14, 2023

RECENT archaeological investigations conducted on the grounds of the former Cardigan Hospital have yielded disappointing results, offering limited insights into the possible location of a medieval priory that once stood there. Experts now fear that extensive redevelopment over the centuries has likely obliterated any significant remains from the medieval era.

The excavations, carried out along the northern edge of the site, were part of Phase 1 of the planning conditions imposed by the Dyfed Archaeological Trust. The dig was necessitated by earlier findings that hinted at the presence of a medieval roadside settlement in the area. The subsequent excavation work was initiated in anticipation of the proposed redevelopment of the site by Wales and West Housing.

Although fragments of medieval pottery and jug handles were uncovered during the excavation, EDP heritage planning consultant, Rob Skinner, acknowledged the lack of noteworthy discoveries. “We’ve found some pieces of medieval pottery and some jug handles, but unfortunately, in addition to these, nothing particularly exciting has been found,” remarked Skinner.

The overall condition of the site, heavily disturbed and altered over the centuries, posed a significant challenge to the archaeological team. Large portions of land had been excavated and filled with rubble and other materials during subsequent developmental phases. Consequently, the disrupted state of the site has hindered the retrieval of a coherent archaeological record.

Skinner further explained, “Over the centuries, the site has been developed and changed in so many different directions, with the result that the archaeological picture has been severely disturbed. This means that the majority of what’s been found dates from the 17th and 18th centuries, with very little dating before.”

These findings suggest that the priory may have occupied the exact location where remnants of a 17th-century house still stand today. Consequently, the archaeological team is beginning to believe that the priory’s remains may never be unearthed. “If this is the case, it means that the remains of the priory will never be found,” added Mr. Skinner with a hint of disappointment.

While the first phase of excavations concluded in May, the Dyfed Archaeological Trust plans to commence the second phase later this year. The upcoming dig will shift focus to the western side of the site, closer to the church, in the hopes of uncovering additional historical artifacts and shedding further light on the site’s past.

In the midst of these archaeological developments, Wales and West Housing has confirmed that a press statement will be issued later this summer, as they have encountered “some issues” during the development process. The housing developers had initially aimed for the opening of their new 34 eco-friendly apartments by the summer of 2023. However, they announced last year that construction would be delayed until this summer, attributing the setback to challenges related to the availability of materials and labor in the construction sector.

As excavations continue and the fate of the priory remains elusive, the archaeological team remains committed to unraveling the mysteries of the former Cardigan Hospital site.

Charity

Letterston dog show raises over £750 for local charities

Published

7 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SUNDAY (Dec 22), Letterston Ring Craft successfully raised £755.55 for two Pembrokeshire-based charities during a fun dog show event. The funds were equally split between South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue and Letterston Memorial Hall.

The event featured a variety of well-attended classes, including child handling and fancy dress, drawing participation from dog enthusiasts of all levels.

This fundraiser marked the first charitable event supporting South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue. Founded and managed by Lizzy Austwick, the rescue organisation aids unwanted, feral, and sick cats across Pembrokeshire and responds to urgent cases in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. The rescue provides neutering support for stray and feral cats, directs owners to available resources, and specialises in helping stray cats with severe injuries, raising essential funds for their care.

For assistance, Lizzy can be contacted via the rescue’s Facebook page or at 07575 131443.

Letterston Ring Craft welcomes new members interested in training and showing their dogs, from local companion shows to prestigious events like Crufts. The club meets every other Sunday in Letterston, and further details can be found on their Facebook page.

Looking ahead, the next fun dog show is scheduled for early next year and will support Belle’s Story Charity. For more information or to get involved, contact Gentle Lowe at 07956 653401.

Charity

£3,800 donated to services across Withybush Hospital

Published

8 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE CAMROSE VINTAGE WORKING DAY team has donated £3,800 to services across Withybush Hospital.

Their 37^th annual event raised a record breaking £25,000, which has now been distributed among 26 local charities.

They donated the funds to the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit and Heads Up! Hair Loss Initiative at Withybush Hospital. Each service received £950.

The Heads Up! initiative provides a person-centred, holistic hair loss service for cancer patients. It brings together healthcare and haircare professionals from local communities to give patients the knowledge and products needed to manage their hair loss with dignity and choice.

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “Thank you to Andrew, the team and the supporters of the Camrose Vintage Working Day for your generosity once again. Your donation to each service is amazing and will make a big difference. We are hugely grateful for your wonderful support.

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

Pictured above: Andrew James, Chairman of Camrose Vintage Working Day with Withybush Hospital staff from the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit, Heads Up! Hair Loss initiative.

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

9 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.