News
Cardigan man guilty of raping young girl in disturbing case

IN A SHOCKING court case that has shaken the community, Nathan Griffiths, a 33-year-old man from Cardigan, has been found guilty of two counts of rape against a young girl. The offences, which occurred between January 2014 and January 2015, involved a child who was merely 12 or 13 years old at the time. After an intense four hours and 49 minutes of deliberations, the jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict for each of the charges, delivering a measure of justice to the victim and her family.
The CPS prosecutor, Robin Rouch, laid out the horrifying events that transpired at a property in the Newcastle Emlyn area while the complainant was alone with Griffiths. They had been playing the popular video game “Minecraft” together when Griffiths began making repeated inappropriate requests for oral sex. Each time, the young girl firmly refused, displaying immense courage and determination to stand up for herself.
However, as Mr. Rouch recounted to the jury, there came moment when Griffiths crossed an unforgivable line. He forcibly subjected the child to perform oral sex on him and then proceeded to commit the act of rape.
The prosecutor characterized Griffiths’ behavior as starting from an “unhealthy interest” in the young complainant, which understandably left her deeply troubled and anxious even after she no longer lived in the area.
She went as far as blocking him and multiple accounts she suspected to be him on social media, trying to protect herself from further harm.
The victim’s ordeal remained hidden. It wasn’t until March 2020, around the time of her 18th birthday, that the police became aware of the allegations.
The brave young woman mustered the courage to report the traumatic events to another party, breaking the silence that had been maintained out of fear.
According to the testimony presented during the trial, the complainant had refrained from speaking up earlier due to the defendant’s chilling threats. Griffiths had warned her that he would harm her mother if she ever revealed the truth.
Throughout the court case, Griffiths denied any wrongdoing and asserted that he and the complainant had maintained contact through social media after the incident. Nevertheless, the overwhelming evidence and the testimonies presented before the court were compelling enough to secure the guilty verdict.
With the trial concluded, the focus now shifts to the sentencing phase. Judge Geraint Walters has adjourned this to August 8 to allow for a thorough medical and psychological assessment of the defendant. Griffiths, who had been out on bail, has been remanded in custody due to concerns over his safety. While the court seeks to ensure a fair sentencing process, the severity of the crimes committed and the impact on the young victim and her family weigh heavily on the minds of many.
This distressing case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fostering a safe environment for children and encouraging them to speak out against any form of abuse or harassment. It is also a testament to the resilience and bravery of the young girl, who found the strength to confront her tormentor and seek justice after years of living in fear.
As the legal process nears its conclusion, the community stands united in support of the victim, sending a powerful message that such abhorrent acts have no place in society. This conviction sends a strong signal that perpetrators of sexual violence will be held accountable for their actions. As we await the sentencing, our thoughts remain with the survivor, her family, and all those impacted by this traumatic case.
Community
Gentle British Shorthair seeks loving forever home

A BEAUTIFUL and affectionate four-year-old British Shorthair cat is looking for a calm and loving home through Greenacres Rescue in Pembrokeshire.
Maple, described by staff as having a “luxurious plush coat” and a “gentle, affectionate nature,” came into the charity’s care through no fault of her own. With her classic round face, soulful eyes, and teddy bear-like fur, she is proving popular with volunteers at the centre.
Greenacres said Maple would make an ideal companion for someone seeking a calm and elegant feline friend. She enjoys gentle fuss and quiet company and has previously lived harmoniously with other cats.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Maple would thrive in a peaceful environment where she can settle in at her own pace and be treated with the patience and love she deserves. She may be happy to share her home with another gentle-natured feline.”
The rescue centre is based in Pembrokeshire, but rehomes animals across the UK. However, potential adopters are reminded that visits to the centre are essential, and priority may be given to homes closer to the charity’s location.
Anyone interested in adopting Maple is asked to complete an online application form, clearly stating her name: Cat Adoption Form – Greenacres Rescue
Applications are processed Monday to Thursday and are subject to home and vet checks. For more information on the adoption process, visit: Adoption Procedure – Greenacres Rescue
Greenacres thanked all potential adopters for supporting their mission to find loving homes for animals in need.
Could you be the one to give Maple the home she deserves?
Crime
Carmarthenshire man jailed for role in commercial cannabis factory

A MAN who allowed members of an organised crime group to set up a large-scale cannabis factory at his rural property has been jailed.
Martin Evans, 37, appeared at Swansea Crown Court where he claimed to be unaware of the extent of the illegal operation. However, the court heard that by renting out part of his home near Kidwelly, Evans had become a “facilitator” for the criminal enterprise.

During a warrant executed in February under Operation Scotney, police discovered nearly 200 cannabis plants—worth up to £264,100—being cultivated at the property.
Further investigation of Evans’s mobile phone revealed incriminating messages referencing police drones and discussions about increasing heat and humidity to accelerate plant growth, confirming his knowledge and involvement.
Evans was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Another man, Fatjon Xafa, who was actively cultivating the plants, received a 29-week prison sentence.
Detective Chief Inspector Rich Lewis said: “I am in no doubt that Evans knew exactly what was going on at his home. He clearly hoped the rurality of the location would allow the operation to go undetected, and he would have allowed it to continue had we not intervened.”
Police said the bust was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised drug networks operating in west Wales.
Community
Marquess of Milford Haven’s daughter welcomes second child

Joy for royal-linked family as baby boy is born
A NEW member of a family with strong historic ties to West Wales has been welcomed into the world, as Lady Tatiana Mountbatten, the daughter of the Marquess of Milford Haven, announced the birth of her son.

The 34-year-old, who is a second cousin to King Charles III, shared the joyful news with her followers on Instagram on Sunday (Apr 13), posting tender photographs with her newborn, husband Alexander ‘Alick’ Dru, and daughter Elodie, who was born in September 2023.
Lady Tatiana is the daughter of George Mountbatten, 4th Marquess of Milford Haven.
The title “Marquess of Milford Haven” was created in 1917 for Prince Louis of Battenberg, who had previously served as First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy.
Amidst the anti-German sentiment during World War I, he relinquished his German titles and adopted the anglicised surname “Mountbatten.”
The Milford Haven waterway, with its rich maritime history and has been home to a significant naval base and commercial fishing port. The town’s deep natural harbour has been used for naval purposes since the late 18th century, and it played a crucial role during both World Wars.
The naming of the marquessate after Milford Haven reflects the town’s importance in British naval history.
In her post, Tatiana revealed her son’s name – Auberon, affectionately known as ‘Albie’. “March might just have been the best month of my life,” she wrote, reflecting on a peaceful period spent with her young family in the Hampshire countryside, away from the bustle of London.
She described her daughter’s excitement at becoming a big sister and shared a touching image of baby Auberon clutching her finger, alongside family scenes of daisy-picking and garden play.
Tatiana said: “We’ve played, rested, nourished, slept a little, loved a lot and enjoyed every minute of the glorious spring weather… Now it’s time to head back to London and discover what our new normal looks like.”
Local interest in the royal-connected family remains strong, particularly due to the Mountbattens’ association with Milford Haven and their lineage linked to Queen Victoria and Prince Louis of Battenberg.
Followers flooded her post with messages of congratulations. One wrote: “Oh my goodness, my heart is absolutely exploding for you!” Another joked: “When are you buying the first pony?!”
The happy news comes not long after another royal birth, with Princess Beatrice welcoming a baby girl, Athena Elizabeth Rose, in January. Despite being born prematurely, Athena is said to be healthy and thriving.
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