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Store closures speculated amidst financial strain

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ADMINISTATORS for the beleaguered retailer Wilko, with branches in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, have refuted allegations that a large number of stores will close next week.

These claims emerged after the GMB union, representing over 3,000 of Wilko’s 12,500 employees, intimated that mass redundancies were imminent.

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), managing the administration, dismissed these assertions as mere “speculation”. The GMB later amended their statement, suggesting closures would occur “within weeks”.

It’s been a fortnight since Wilko entered administration, casting doubt over its 400 nationwide outlets. PwC has been actively seeking potential buyers in an endeavour to protect as many jobs and branches as possible. Nonetheless, a recent meeting conveyed the grim prognosis that the “majority of the business” might not be salvaged.

Rumours abound regarding interest from competitors such as Poundland, B&M, The Range, and Home Bargains in acquiring portions of the Wilko empire.

The joint administrators of Wilko affirmed that for now, “all stores remain open”. They, however, didn’t rule out prospective store closures and redundancies. They added, “While there’s interest from various parties, the focus isn’t on the entire group. Regrettably, store closures and redundancies seem likely in the near future.”

Andy Prendergast, GMB national secretary, pledged unwavering support for Wilko employees. He criticised Wilko’s leadership, stating, “GMB will not overlook the incompetence leading to this downfall nor the dividends pocketed by millionaires at workers’ expense.”

The potential closure of Wilko outlets is anticipated to create a significant void on high streets nationwide. Shadow business secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, lamented the prospective closures and criticised 13 years of Conservative governance, which, in his view, has led to an increase in “shuttered-up shops and struggling high streets”. He underscored Labour’s commitment to revitalising high streets through reforms and initiatives.

 

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Local rugby talent Osian Williams selected for Wales Under-20 clash with England

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A FORMER Haverfordwest Blues junior has earned international honours after being selected to represent Wales Under-20 rugby union team in their fixture against England.

Osian Williams, who began his rugby journey at Haverfordwest Rugby Football Club, will pull on the red jersey this evening in what marks a proud milestone for both the player and the Pembrokeshire club that helped develop his talent.

Club members said the call-up reflects years of hard work, commitment and steady progress through the ranks, with Williams recognised locally for his determination and performances on the pitch from a young age.

A spokesperson for Haverfordwest RFC said the whole club is “incredibly proud” to see one of their own step onto the international stage.

They added that it is always special to watch former junior players progress to represent their country, describing Williams’ selection as “fully deserved” and an inspiration to the next generation coming through the Blues’ youth setup.

The match against England provides a stern test for the young Welsh side, but for Williams and his family it is also a moment to savour after years of dedication to the sport.

Friends, coaches and former teammates are expected to be cheering him on from Pembrokeshire as he makes his mark in Welsh colours.

Photo caption:

Osian Williams has been selected to play for Wales Under-20s against England (Pic: Supplied).

 

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Crime

Man arrested for murder following death of pensioner in Pembroke Dock

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Officers called to Hawkstone Road property as investigation continues and residents urged to come forward

DYFED-POWYS POLICE officers have launched a murder investigation following the sudden death of an eighty-five-year-old man at a property in Hawkstone Road, Pembroke Dock.

Emergency services were called at approximately 1:30pm today (Friday, Feb 6).

Officers attended the scene and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.

A man in his forties has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while the investigation continues.

Anyone with information that could assist officers is urged to come forward.

Information can be provided online, by 101.

Quote reference: 212 of February 6.

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their website.

 

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Education

Second west Wales school placed in lockdown within days

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Precautionary measures activated at Ysgol Brynteg after morning disturbance outside gates

CARMARTHENSHIRE pupils were kept inside classrooms after a precautionary lockdown was triggered at Ysgol Brynteg on Friday morning (Feb 6), marking the second west Wales secondary school to enter lockdown in the same week.

Police were called shortly after 9:00am following reports of a verbal altercation outside the school grounds.

Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended and the Llanelli school activated its safeguarding procedures while the situation was assessed.

No weapons were reported, no injuries have been confirmed and there have been no arrests at this stage. The incident is understood to have involved a dispute outside the site rather than inside the school itself.

Pupils remained indoors under staff supervision while officers made checks. Once police were satisfied there was no ongoing risk, the lockdown was lifted and lessons continued as normal.

A spokesperson said the measure was purely precautionary.

The incident comes just days after armed officers were deployed to Milford Haven School following a serious assault on a teacher, prompting a temporary closure and widespread concern among parents.

While the circumstances in Llanelli were far less severe, the two events occurring so close together have heightened anxiety among families across west Wales.

Schools routinely use lockdown procedures when there is any uncertainty or potential threat nearby, even if the risk later proves minimal. The approach is designed to err on the side of caution and protect pupils while emergency services investigate.

Parents were informed that Brynteg was safe and operating normally once the situation had been resolved.

There is currently no indication that pupils inside the school were directly involved in the disturbance.

The Herald understands enquiries are ongoing.

Both incidents underline how quickly everyday school days can be disrupted, and how safeguarding responses are increasingly becoming part of standard practice across Welsh schools.

Anyone with information about the Llanelli incident is asked to contact police.

 

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