Pembrokeshire-born singer to speak publicly for first time about kidnap ordeal

PEMBROKESHIRE-born singer Duffy is set to break her silence about the traumatic events that led to her disappearance from the music industry, as part of a new feature-length documentary for Disney+.

The award-winning artist, who rose to global fame with her hit single Mercy and debut album Rockferry, will speak in detail for the first time about the kidnap and sexual assault she revealed in 2020.

The project was announced at the Series Mania television festival in France by Disney+’s head of content for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Angela Jain, who described the documentary as a “powerful” and sensitive piece.

She said Duffy had “entrusted us with her story,” adding that the platform recognised its responsibility to handle the subject matter with care.

Duffy stunned fans six years ago when she disclosed in a social media post that she had stepped away from music in 2011 after being drugged, kidnapped and raped.

In a later, detailed account published on her website, she said she had been drugged on her birthday in a restaurant before being held captive and taken abroad for several weeks.

She wrote that the ordeal left her fearing for her life, explaining why she did not immediately go to the police.

“It didn’t feel safe to go to the police,” she said at the time. “I felt if anything went wrong, I would be dead.”

She later reported the incident but said she had felt “petrified” ever since.

The singer’s sudden withdrawal from the spotlight at the height of her success had long puzzled fans. Her debut album Rockferry became one of the best-selling records in the UK, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards.

In recent years, there have been tentative signs of a return. In 2025, Duffy appeared briefly in a social media clip promoting a remix of Mercy with dance artist E.motion, sparking excitement among fans.

However, no new official release has followed, and she has largely remained out of public view.

The upcoming Disney+ documentary is expected to shed light on the events behind her decade-long absence and offer insight into her recovery.

Production is due to begin shortly, with no release date yet confirmed.

FORMER BBC news presenter Huw Edwards has issued a strongly worded statement criticising an upcoming television drama based on his fall from grace.

Edwards, who received a suspended prison sentence after admitting offences relating to indecent images of children, said the programme was produced without properly checking its claims with him.

The two-part drama, Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, features actor Martin Clunes portraying the former newsreader.

In a statement published in the national press, Edwards claimed those behind the programme failed to verify key elements of the story before filming began. He said producers only approached him for comment after production had already been completed, and even then retained editorial control over any response.

He also questioned whether contributors to the programme had been paid, suggesting the drama may not accurately reflect events.

Edwards said he had already expressed “deep regret and remorse” for his crimes during court proceedings, having pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity.

He added that he found the offences deeply disturbing and offered a further apology, acknowledging that each image involved a real victim.

The former presenter said he is now working on his own account of the events, although progress has been slow due to ongoing health issues. He has previously spoken about long-term mental illness, which he said had worsened in the period leading up to his offences.

However, he stressed that mental health difficulties should not be used to excuse criminal behaviour.

Edwards rose to prominence as one of the UK’s most recognisable news anchors before his career collapsed following allegations of misconduct and subsequent criminal charges.

In September 2024, he was handed a six-month suspended sentence and placed on the sex offenders register for seven years. He was also ordered to complete a rehabilitation programme.

Responding to his criticism, a spokesperson for Channel 5 said the drama was based on interviews with those involved, including the complainant and journalists who broke the story, as well as court reporting and message evidence.

They added that the programme was produced in line with broadcasting regulations and that allegations featured in the film had been put to Edwards through his legal representatives in advance.

FAMILIES across Pembrokeshire are being invited to “hop into spring” as Easter egg trails return to National Trust sites across Wales.

The popular seasonal events will take place at thirteen locations nationwide, including Colby Woodland Garden near Amroth, offering a mix of outdoor adventure, nature exploration, and family-friendly challenges.

The National Trust Cymru says the trails are designed to keep children entertained during the Easter holidays while encouraging them to connect with nature, heritage, and the outdoors.

At Colby Woodland Garden, visitors can explore a wooded valley filled with winding paths, streams, and hidden corners while taking part in ten activity stations along the Easter trail.

Organisers say the site’s mix of natural play areas and historic features makes it an ideal location for families looking to enjoy the spring weather.

The Easter egg trail at Colby will run from Thursday (Apr 3) to Sunday (Apr 6), between 10:00am and 3:30pm.

Family-friendly activities

Across Wales, the trails include a wide range of themed activities, from wildlife spotting and creative challenges to physical games and imaginative play.

Each location features around ten activity points, with participants receiving a trail sheet, bunny ears, and a chocolate egg on completion. Vegan and allergy-friendly options are also available.

Normal admission charges apply, although National Trust members can enter for free. The Easter trail costs £3.50 per child.

Spring boost for tourism

The National Trust says the events are part of a wider effort to encourage families to make the most of outdoor spaces as the weather improves.

With gardens in bloom and longer daylight hours, organisers hope the trails will attract visitors from across west Wales and beyond.

A spokesperson said the programme offers “hours of fun, discovery and seasonal adventure for the whole family.”

More information and booking details are available via the National Trust website.