News

Wilko: Future uncertain for staff at two local stores

Published

9 months ago

August 10, 2023

RENOWNED high street brand Wilko has this week (Aug 10) been forced to enter administration, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the future of more than 400 stores scattered across the United Kingdom – including two in Pembrokeshire, Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock. The distressing news comes as a blow not only to the company’s dedicated workforce but also to countless loyal customers who have relied on the brand for their household essentials and budget-friendly merchandise.

Mark Jackson, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Wilko, had recently hinted at the company’s financial troubles when he disclosed that the retailer was on the brink of insolvency due to mounting cash pressures. The desperate bid to secure a takeover and infuse the business with a much-needed lifeline ended in failure, prompting the company to initiate drastic measures.

Last Thursday, August 3, Wilko initiated legal proceedings by filing a notice of intention to appoint administrators at the High Court. Today, the once-thriving brand officially announced its plunge into administration after failing to secure a viable rescue deal, sending shockwaves throughout the retail industry.

The immediate fallout of this unfortunate development is the jeopardy faced by over 400 Wilko stores that dot the British landscape, along with the livelihoods of approximately 12,000 employees. This grim reality has hit particularly close to home in Pembrokeshire, where two Wilko stores stand on the brink of closure, namely in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock. These establishments, which have served as staples within their local communities, now hang in the balance, leaving both employees and residents anxiously awaiting the outcome.

Mark Jackson, the beleaguered CEO of Wilko, shared his perspective on the heart-wrenching decision to enter administration. “We’ve explored every conceivable avenue to preserve this remarkable business,” he remarked, “but the harsh truth is that time has elapsed, and we find ourselves with no alternative but to take this regrettable step.”

Jackson’s sentiments were echoed in a letter to stakeholders, where he outlined the company’s uphill battle and the prevailing circumstances that led to this painful outcome. “Over the past six months,” the letter reads, “Wilko has undertaken an exhaustive examination of options to expedite a turnaround strategy, recognising the imperative need to recalibrate our operations and restore confidence in our business model.”

He continued, “Our determination to safeguard this remarkable enterprise has been unwavering, yet we must now confront the harsh reality that our efforts have been exhausted. Consequently, we must now shift our focus towards preserving as many jobs as possible, for as long as possible, by collaborating with the administrators appointed to oversee this transitional phase.”

News

Tigers second division Cup Champions

Published

8 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Herald Sport

In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.

The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.

As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.

But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.

With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.

The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.

Crime

Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop

Published

12 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Tom Sinclair

POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.

A window was smashed and the door handle broken.

Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

News

Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2

Published

13 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Luke Sinclair

THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.

Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.

They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.

A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.

This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.

If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.

You can only hand in your own postal vote, and postal votes for up to five other people.

You can find out more about the Police and Crime Commissioner Elections online (opens in new window).