News

Hundreds of miles of footpath lost in Pembrokeshire over past century

Published

1 year ago

October 6, 2023

IN AN AGE where appreciating the serene embrace of nature has become not only a leisure activity but a crucial component for mental and physical health, the disappearance of hundreds of miles of public rights of way in Pembrokeshire comes as a stark revelation.

Recent meticulous analysis by The Ramblers, a prominent charity advocating for walkers, reveals a considerable 378-mile deficit in protected footpath within the former boundaries of Pembrokeshire since the dawn of the 20th century. This reduction, unveiled by comparing historic and modern maps, posits a significant decline in spaces legally available for the public to engage in activities such as walking, cycling, and horse riding.

On a broader scale, The Ramblers, in collaboration with the New Economics Foundation think tank, divulged that the average postcode in Pembrokeshire is endowed with a mere 3,000 metres of footpath accessible within a 10-minute walk. In comparison, the average across Welsh postcodes slightly edges higher, offering approximately 3,500 metres.

Despite the available footpaths, the charity accentuates a pervasive inequality in access, wherein nature’s offerings tend to be more readily accessible to “the old, the healthy, the wealthy and the white”, according to Jack Cornish, Head of Paths at the Ramblers. Cornish underscores the “massive impact” that accessible walking routes can wield on health outcomes.

This revelation becomes even more poignant considering that almost 50,000 miles of public right of way have vanished across England and Wales over the last century. With the Welsh Government recognising and exploring the substantial benefits of “social prescribing” – advocating for physical activities such as walking and cycling as either alternatives or companions to medical treatments – the loss of such public pathways is particularly detrimental.

The plight is palpably present in the figures as well, with data from the Welsh Government revealing a dip from 60% to approximately 50% in the proportion of people walking over 10 minutes to a destination weekly, comparing 2019-20 to 2022-23.

In light of these findings, The Ramblers has articulated a robust call for a £650 million investment in paths across England and Wales, a move they argue could yield remarkable dividends in amplifying the nation’s health and wellbeing.

A spokesperson for the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs responded to these revelations stating, “We are committed to increasing access to nature and our Environmental Improvement Plan sets out our ambition for every household to be within a 15-minute walk of a green or blue space.”

The Department further elucidated efforts towards enhancing access via a £14.5 million ‘Access for All’ programme, which encapsulates a suite of targeted measures aimed at elevating the accessibility of protected landscapes, national trails, and the wider countryside for all demographics.

In a world progressively aware of the integral relationship between nature and wellbeing, the restoration and preservation of public footpaths emerges not merely as an environmental concern, but a pivotal health and societal one.

Crime

Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight

Published

4 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar.

Just after 2:30am on July 21, police were called to Main Street, Pembroke, following reports of a large fight involving around 100 people outside ‘Out’ nightclub.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week: “Officers were told it was a large fight. They saw Walter Probert, 27, march purposefully towards a parked van.

“The van’s lights were on, and they saw the defendant pull out a long, green metal pole. He took ten steps back towards the nightclub and transferred the pole from one hand to the other.”

Another man approached Probert, removed the pole from his hands, and placed it inside the van.

“Because of the manner in which the pole was used by the defendant, it became an offensive weapon,” added Ms James.

CCTV footage of the incident was shown to magistrates.

Probation officer Julie Norman said Probert had no recollection of the incident.

“He doesn’t remember what he was doing, but he accepts everything that has been said. He was very drunk,” she said.

“He was brought up in the gypsy travelling community and doesn’t have an alcohol issue; he’s just a social drinker. He’s thankful to his friend who took the pole and placed it back inside the van.”

Probert, of the Caravan Site, Kingsmoor Common, Begelly, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.

“No threats were made by the defendant when he picked it up, but it was a stupid decision,” said Mr Lloyd. “As soon as he was challenged and asked what he was doing, he ceased.”

Probert was sentenced to a 12-month community order, requiring him to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 court surcharge. Magistrates imposed a destruction order on the metal bar.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

6 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

6 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.