News

Pembroke Coast Express thunders through the county

Published

3 years ago

August 7, 2023

ON SUNDAY (Aug 6), Pembrokeshire was treated to a remarkable visit from a special train that transported railway enthusiasts on a nostalgic journey through time. This unique experience beautifully recreated the enchanting spirit of British Rail Merrymaker excursion trains from the 1970s, offering a captivating trip to the scenic delights of West Wales.

The journey commenced from the historic town of Salisbury, with passengers embarking on a leisurely Sunday morning departure. Traversing the picturesque landscapes of Wiltshire and the Avon Valley, the train meandered its way to Filton Abbey Wood, gradually unveiling the captivating transition from rolling countryside to pockets of industrial charm.

Three locos: 33025, 33029 & 47813 work 1Z25 from Salisbury to Tenby at Llanharan and 1Z26 from Tenby to Salisbury at Eastbrook Foot Crossing

The train’s route was an exquisite tapestry of nature and civilization, crossing both the River Usk at Newport and the River Taff at Cardiff. The voyage continued through Bridgend and Port Talbot, with glimpses of both industry and open countryside weaving a tapestry of changing scenes. As the train ventured further, the Neath-Swansea area unfolded its beauty, leading the way to Llanelli, the scenic sea-wall, and eventually to the serene Towy Estuary and the charming town of Carmarthen, where the train underwent a brief reversal.

Setting off once again towards the western horizon, the landscapes transformed into idyllic pastoral scenes upon arrival at Whitland. Here, the train veered south onto a single-track line, guiding passengers to the jewel of the coast, Tenby. Renowned for its sandy shores, inviting atmosphere, and elegant Victorian architecture, Tenby offered an ample three-hour window for exploration and discovery.

For those with time constraints, an alternative option was available: passengers could choose to remain aboard the train as it embarked on its journey to the final destination, Pembroke Dock, before returning to Tenby. As the late afternoon approached, the train initiated its return journey to the east, retracing its path through Llanelli, the Swansea area, and other enchanting locales.

For the avid enthusiasts of route detail, a unique opportunity presented itself. The train offered two distinct routes for crossing the Loughor Estuary. One route took passengers from Port Talbot to Llanelli via Landore, while the other showcased the Swansea District Line, each offering a distinctive perspective of this natural wonder.

Embracing the authenticity of the past, the train was propelled by a pair of veteran Class 33 diesel locomotives, a sight that brought back memories of yesteryears. Although these locomotives were unable to journey beyond Carmarthen, a West Coast Railways diesel seamlessly assumed control from Carmarthen to Pembroke Dock, maintaining the historical resonance of the experience.

Adding to the historical significance, the train bore a connection to the iconic ‘Pembroke Coast Express.’ Originating in 1953, British Railways bestowed this name upon the principal train route from London Paddington to Tenby and Pembroke Dock. Though the name eventually faded from use in 1963, the spirit of the train endured, now making an exclusive appearance on summer Saturdays.

Aboard the train, passengers were treated to a host of amenities designed for their comfort and enjoyment. Reserved seats afforded unobstructed views of the passing landscapes, while a printed excursion and journey guide served as a trusty companion throughout the voyage. A licensed buffet catered to a variety of refreshment preferences, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For a truly indulgent experience, the Premier Dining service offered an array of delectable delights, ranging from The Great British Breakfast to a sumptuous four-course Evening Dinner.

Throughout the journey, Pathfinder Stewards were on hand, ensuring that every need was met with their cheerful, friendly, and helpful assistance. Their presence enhanced the overall experience, adding an extra layer of warmth and camaraderie to the nostalgic trip.

In retrospect, the special train that graced Pembrokeshire yesterday offered a rare opportunity to relive the charm and elegance of a bygone era. As passengers were transported through both time and space, the train wove together history, nostalgia, and awe-inspiring scenery, leaving indelible memories that will be cherished for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned rail enthusiast or simply seeking an exceptional day out, this extraordinary journey provided an unforgettable adventure, proving that the allure of the past continues to captivate the hearts of today’s adventurers.

Cover image by Jeremy Sergott/Facebook

Community

Concern grows after child hospitalised following Tenby sea swim

Published

4 hours ago

May 10, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PARENT SAYS BOY BECAME SERIOUSLY ILL AFTER SWIMMING DURING FAMILY VISIT

CONCERN is growing in Pembrokeshire after a parent claimed their child was admitted to hospital after swimming in the sea at Tenby.

The post, shared in a local Tenby Facebook group, said the family had visited the resort between Monday and Thursday, with the boy swimming in the sea on Tuesday (May 6).

His parent wrote: “My son swam in the sea on the 6th and the next morning came down with terrible sickness and diarrhoea — he’s been very unwell since and has tonight been admitted to hospital.”

They added: “It’s terrible we can’t swim in our seas and rivers safely anymore. Please be aware.”

The post prompted hundreds of reactions and dozens of comments, with many people expressing sympathy for the family and others raising wider concerns about sewage pollution and water quality around the Pembrokeshire coast.

One commenter said: “This is a national disgrace, please put in a written complaint to Dŵr Cymru and Natural Resources Wales.”

Another asked: “Why were there no signs put up on the beaches to warn people it was unsafe to swim in?”

Others claimed they or family members had suffered illness after swimming at locations including Tenby, Amroth, Newgale and Coppet Hall.

One person wrote: “I got sepsis from a cut in Newgale surfing. Took six weeks in hospital and seven months recovery and still not right to get over it.”

Another said: “Please check with your son’s doctors regarding E.coli and a condition called HUS, which can develop from E.coli. My daughter swam at Amroth in 2022 after a sewage incident in the area and became seriously ill.”

No medical evidence has been published linking the latest reported illness directly to seawater exposure, and there is currently no official confirmation that conditions at Tenby caused the child’s illness.

However, the post has reignited anger over sewage discharges, pollution alerts and the information available to visitors and local people before entering the water.

Lydstep warning

The concern follows a recent warning at Lydstep Haven after Natural Resources Wales informed Pembrokeshire County Council of an “abnormal situation” which could temporarily affect bathing water quality.

Pembrokeshire County Council said officers from its Pollution Control Team had placed warning notices at various locations around the beach, temporarily advising against bathing while the matter was investigated.

Some residents questioned whether warnings were clear enough, particularly during busy holiday periods.

One commenter wrote: “Why aren’t there any warnings to holiday makers and visitors to our local area? It’s not fair that they find out information after someone becomes ill.”

Another said: “There should be notices and announcements on the beaches if there is an outage.”

Others pointed out that Surfers Against Sewage’s water quality app was not showing an active alert for Tenby itself, and suggested some online comments may have confused the current Lydstep warning with previous pollution notices affecting beaches in the Tenby area.

Protest at Broad Haven

The issue comes less than a week before campaigners stage a Surfers Against Sewage paddle-out protest at Broad Haven.

The protest is due to take place on Saturday, May 16, at 1:30pm, as part of a UK-wide day of action calling for an end to sewage pollution in rivers and seas.

Surfers Against Sewage says communities across the UK will gather on beaches, riverbanks and in the water to demand stronger action on sewage pollution.

The campaign group said: “We are sick of it. Sick of the lies, sick of the greed and sick of a system that’s rigged against us.”

A large banner has already been placed on Broad Haven seafront encouraging people to attend the protest.

Tourism concerns

The row has also raised concerns about the potential impact on Pembrokeshire’s tourism industry, with Tenby, Broad Haven, Newgale and other seaside communities heavily dependent on visitors during the spring and summer months.

One commenter wrote: “Not very good for a holiday destination is it.”

Another said: “Tourism will be massively affected by incidents like this, and people’s health and lives are being put at risk.”

Others called for stronger action from Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.

The Herald has approached Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water for comment.

Community

Milford Haven remembers those lost at sea

Published

5 hours ago

May 10, 2026

Tom Sinclair

National Fishing Remembrance Day marked by Port

MILFORD HAVEN came together on Sunday (May 10) to remember those who have lost their lives at sea.

The Port of Milford Haven joined the Fishermen’s Mission, Stella Maris – Apostleship of the Sea and members of the local community for a National Fishing Remembrance Day service at St Katherine’s and St Peter’s Church.

The service was followed by a gathering at the Fisherman’s Memorial on The Rath, where those who never returned home from the sea were remembered.

Canon Chancellor John Cecil and Reverend Paul Osunyikanmi led what was described as a moving service of remembrance.

The Port of Milford Haven said it was honoured to take part in the event, paying tribute to fishing families and the wider maritime community.

The annual day of remembrance holds particular significance in Milford Haven, a town with deep fishing and seafaring roots.

Local Government

Jonathan Grimes becomes 647th Mayor of Pembroke

Published

6 hours ago

May 10, 2026

Tom Sinclair

JONATHAN GRIMES has said he is “incredibly proud and deeply honoured” after becoming the 647th Mayor of Pembroke.

Cllr Grimes, county councillor for Pembroke St Mary South and Monkton, thanked those who had placed their trust and confidence in him.

He said: “With the support, commitment and dedication of Pembroke Town Council and our wonderful community, I am confident we can meet every challenge together, celebrate our successes, and continue building a brighter and more inclusive future for Pembroke.

“It is a true privilege to serve as Mayor, and I look forward to working alongside the people of Pembroke in the months ahead.”

Cllr Grimes said he was also looking forward to attending this afternoon’s service at St Mary’s Church in Pembroke for the Blessing of the Bells.

He added that he hoped to meet as many people as possible as the town celebrates the return of the historic bells.