News
Torch Theatre faces uncertain future amidst drastic funding shortfall

FOR NEARLY half a century, the Torch Theatre has illuminated the arts in Pembrokeshire, consistently placing the community’s well-being at its core. Today, as it grapples with a substantial funding deficit, the Torch Theatre is turning to the community for support.
A significant 93% reduction in our allocation from the Pembrokeshire County Council, a repercussion of broader budget cuts, combined with the economic ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic, has resulted in a concerning £250,000 funding gap. The Torch, a registered charity, relies on the generosity of its core funders for basic operations, but the lion’s share of our resources is self-generated. Now, more than ever, we need community support to continue enriching lives.
Annually, the Torch offers a plethora of 2000 events, welcoming over 100,000 visitors. Recognised throughout Wales, we’ve been a hub for arts, an independent cinema, and an award-winning theatre. From our inclusive Youth Theatre to our community choir Torch Voices and our support for the Welsh National Opera Cradle Choir, we’re committed to providing enriching, accessible experiences for all.s
In these challenging times, many cherished regional venues have already shut their doors. While the Torch has never before sought public assistance on this scale, we believe in the strength of community spirit.
Contributions can take various forms – be it a single donation, regular patronage, volunteering, joining our membership, leaving a legacy, or simply enjoying what the Torch offers. For businesses, collaboration can span from sponsorships to advertising, reaching audiences across Pembrokeshire.
Supporting us extends beyond the theatre; it’s an investment in Pembrokeshire’s economy. We bolster local businesses, educational institutions, and tourism. Our commitment to over 50 local suppliers, unique employment initiatives, and contributions to the hospitality sector has solidified our role in Milford Haven.

To discuss your contribution, reach out at [email protected], call the Torch on 01646 401714, or visit their Box Office. Every gesture, big or small, can help the Torch’s flame burn brighter, the organisation said today.
News
New social services out of hours emergency contact goes live soon

THERE is now a new number to contact social services in emergency situations outside normal work hours with a bilingual call centre on hand to support residents.
Calls to the Emergency Duty Team will be answered out of hours by Galw Gofal, a compassionate, supportive and professional service designed to assist residents during evenings, weekends and Bank holidays.
The team is trained to handle a wide range of urgent social care calls.
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Emergency Duty Team are here to help people with personal, family or accommodation problems which may have reached a crisis point and cannot wait until the next working day.
This can include difficulties with children and young people, concern about a child outside your family, acute mental health problems, older or people with a disability at risk and emergency housing advice.
The Galw Gofal team will liaise with the emergency duty team and arrange contact with an experienced social worker.
It’s hard to think straight when there’s a crisis, and many callers can be helped by advice given over the phone. If you already have a social worker, the team can offer advice to help you until you can make new plans with your social worker, and can send them a message to let them know what has happened. If you do not have a social worker, a referral can be made to your local daytime social work team if this would help your situation.
The new out of hours emergency contact number – 0300 123 5519 – goes live on February 19, 2025.
Anyone with concerns or issues during working hours can contact Pembrokeshire County Council on 01437 764551.
Education
Welsh Conservatives trigger debate on school catchment areas

CALL-IN OVER CABINET DECISION
WELSH CONSERVATIVE councillors Aled Thomas and Claire George have triggered an additional debate on school catchment areas for Johnston, Neyland, and Tiers Cross after calling in a decision by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet.
The Cabinet recently decided to maintain the current school catchment areas, despite significant community opposition. The call-in was supported by the entire Welsh Conservative group on the council.
Cllr Aled Thomas, who represents Johnston, said: “Thanks to the support of my fellow Pembrokeshire Conservative councillors, we have been able to continue discussions on this important matter, while the current administration is only concerned with kicking it into the long grass.
“Strong and safe education is the silver bullet in ensuring our next generation thrives, both at school age and beyond. Boundary changes were forced on Johnston’s residents against their will, and I will do everything I can to fight for their best interests.”
Cllr Claire George, who represents St Ishmaels, added: “It is a fundamental principle of education that children should feel safe and develop their independence, which means access to appropriate school transport—something that is not workable under the current catchment area arrangements for my ward.
“We must ensure that our children can travel to and from the school of their choice confidently and safely, giving them the opportunity to flourish in their education.”
An extraordinary Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee will be convened by the end of February to review the matter further.
Entertainment
Welsh crime thriller filmed in Pembroke Dock set for BBC debut

A NEW Welsh crime thriller, The One That Got Away—previously shown on S4C as Cleddau—is set to premiere on BBC One Wales and BBC Four later this month.
The gripping six-part series, featuring an all-Welsh cast, will debut on BBC One Wales at 9:10pm on Tuesday, February 25. A double-bill of the first two episodes will air on BBC Four on St David’s Day, March 1, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer.
The series stars Elen Rhys (The Mallorca Files, Craith/Hidden) as DI Ffion Lloyd, who is forced to team up with her former lover, DS Rick Sheldon, played by Richard Harrington (Y Gwyll/Hinterland), to investigate the murder of a nurse in a Welsh seaside town.
Written by Catherine Tregenna (Law & Order UK, Lewis, DCI Banks) and directed by Sion Ifan (Y Goleudy), the drama explores the unresolved past between the two detectives while a disturbing murder case unfolds. The killing shakes the small community, raising doubts about a historic conviction and suggesting the terrifying possibility of a copycat at large.
Actor Elen Rhys, who returned to Wales to film the series, said: “Coming home to Wales to film was a joy—immersing myself in everything Welsh. The talented, close-knit crew worked together so well, making it a truly lovely and extraordinary experience. I felt so lucky.”
The series promises a gripping mix of psychological depth, crime investigation, and the emotional entanglements of its lead characters, set against the atmospheric backdrop of Pembrokeshire.
-
Business3 days ago
Digital marketing challenges for rural Welsh businesses
-
Business7 days ago
Oyster comeback: Milford Haven project aims to restore native species
-
Education7 days ago
Excluding pupils for knives ‘too simple’, says Estyn chief
-
News3 days ago
Police report filed over Neyland Town Council email controversy
-
Health3 days ago
Emergency care failing in Wales, warns damming report
-
Education7 days ago
Exciting apprenticeship opportunities at Port of Milford Haven
-
News7 days ago
New housing plans spark sewage fears in Broad Haven
-
Politics3 days ago
Pembrokeshire council tax rise of 9.85 per cent backed