MULTIPLE sources are reporting that several people have been taken ill after taking suspected recreational drugs in the Haverfordwest area over the Easter weekend (Friday, April 18 – Sunday, April 20).

Emergency services were called to a number of incidents, with individuals believed to have been hospitalised after becoming seriously unwell. There are growing concerns that a dangerous batch of drugs, possibly laced with an unknown or highly toxic substance, may be circulating locally.

One man is believed to have died following a suspected drug-related incident, although this has not yet been confirmed by police or health officials.

Eyewitnesses say the man had earlier been seen in visible distress in the town centre late on Friday night, where he was reportedly pleading for help. It is understood he later collapsed in Castle Square.

A concerned resident told The Herald: “It’s awful. People are talking about a bad batch of pills doing the rounds – someone has died and others have ended up in hospital. People need to be really careful.”

The Herald is not naming any individuals involved at this time as formal identification and cause of death have not been confirmed by the authorities.

Public health warning

Anyone who has taken drugs in the area over the weekend and feels unwell is urged to seek immediate medical assistance. Even a single tablet or dose of an unknown substance can be fatal, especially if it contains powerful synthetic opioids such as pentynyl or fentanyl, which are often undetectable until it is too late.

Parents and carers are encouraged to speak openly with young people about the dangers of recreational drugs. The Talk to Frank website (www.talktofrank.com) offers accessible and up-to-date information about a wide range of substances, their risks, and how to seek help.

What to do in an emergency:

• If someone becomes unwell after taking drugs — especially if they collapse, have trouble breathing, or lose consciousness — call 999 immediately.
• Stay with them, try to keep them awake, and place them in the recovery position if they are unconscious.
• Do not be afraid to tell medical professionals or paramedics what has been taken. This information could save a life and will not lead to criminal charges for those seeking help.

General advice:

Avoid taking drugs alone — there is no one to help you if something goes wrong.

Don’t mix substances — combining drugs or alcohol increases the risk of overdose.

Be wary of pills or powders that are sold as MDMA or ecstasy but may contain far more dangerous substances such as synthetic opioids.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, support is available locally through Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service (DDAS) and other charities.

Contact information:

DDAS: 03303 639997 or visit www.ddas.org.uk

Talk to Frank: 0300 123 6600 or text 82111

Crimestoppers (anonymous tip line): 0800 555 111

The Herald will continue to follow this developing story and publish official updates as soon as they are available.

FORMAL plans to redevelop the grounds of one of the oldest football clubs in Wales – which includes a new 310-seater stand – have been submitted to the council.

Aberystwyth Town Football Club has submitted an application for the redevelopment of its grounds at Park Avenue Stadium, Aberystwyth.

A supporting statement from agent JMS Planning and Development says the proposal seeks “full planning permission for the demolition of the existing main stand and the creation of a new clubhouse, turnstile, changing rooms, business unit and improvements to the existing seated and standing terraces which will include new roof canopies and all associated works”.

The formal application follows an earlier public consultation.

It adds: “Aberystwyth Town Football Club is proudly one of the oldest football clubs in Wales, whereby the club was founded some 140 years ago in 1884. The club is one of the founding members of what is now known as the ‘Cymru Premier’, of which it is only one of two teams to have never been relegated since its inception in 1992.

“The men’s senior team is loyally supported by local community and has seen an increase in attendance over the past couple of years, reaching nearly 6,000 spectators over the year for the men’s team alone. A number of Cymru Premier matches are broadcast live from the ground each season on S4C and streamed online to a worldwide audience. The Football Association of Wales recently confirmed a new structure and strategy to the league with the aim of boosting its commercial profile, competitiveness, and fan interest both nationally and internationally.

“As a Premier European Division, clubs are provided the opportunity to qualify for UEFA competitions and compete across the Continent, whereby it is imperative that facilities and infrastructure across the country are developed to meet UEFA Licensing requirements. Should Aberystwyth Town qualify – or host other clubs’ European matches as has occurred in recent years – the redevelopment of the facilities at Park Avenue will enable Ceredigion to continue to host continental sporting events.”

It says Aberystwyth Town Football Club “is often called ‘home’ by a number of other teams in the region which rely on the club’s facilities and all-weather pitch for the provision of training sessions and matches”.

The scheme itself is the first phase of development, the second relating to residential development.

Of phase 1, it says: “The proposal seeks the construction of a new clubhouse and community facility, a 310-seater stand, replacement turnstile, ticketing office, roofs over existing seated and standing terraces, new primary and secondary changing room facilities, dedicated business/employment unit, with improvements to accessibility throughout the site, including the re-construction of a dedicated disabled viewing platform.”

It adds: “The scheme proposes vast improvements to the accessibility of the site by providing step-free access throughout the whole site, thus promoting an inclusive environment. Similarly, the scheme introduces improvements to a dedicated viewing platform for less-able bodied.”

It goes on to say: “The existing main stand and changing rooms are in a state of deterioration and require significant investment if required to serve the club for years in the future. Hence, modern and fit-for-purpose facilities are proposed to revitalise the site which will enhance the provision of the community facility, encourage the uptake of sports, and in-turn promote the health and well-being of a wide range of social groups in the local and regional area.

“The development also promotes equality and inclusivity for both male and female players and officials, who will benefit from segregated and modern changing facilities, in accordance with the requirements of the Football Association of Wales.”

The application will be considered by county planners at a later date.

Extended hours to help nation mark milestone in Second World War history

PUBS across England and Wales will be allowed to serve until 1:00am to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, the Prime Minister has announced.

The extension applies to the evening of Wednesday, May 8, allowing revellers to continue their celebrations into the early hours of Thursday, May 9.

A series of national events are planned to commemorate the end of the Second World War in Europe, including a military parade through central London, an RAF flypast, and the lighting of more than 2,500 beacons across the UK.

Late opening hours for pubs have previously been granted during major national occasions, including Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and England’s matches during the Euro 2024 semi-finals and final.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the whole country should come together to remember the incredible sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured for us all.

“Keeping our pubs open for longer will give people the opportunity to join in celebrations and raise a glass to all of the men and women who served their country, both overseas and at home.”

The commemorations will begin on Monday, May 5, with Union Flags flying at the Cenotaph in London. A military procession will march from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, followed by an aerial display by the Royal Air Force. On May 8, the BBC will broadcast a celebratory event live from Horse Guards Parade.

Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, welcomed the decision. He said: “At such a challenging time for the hospitality sector, allowing businesses to extend their trading hours during these celebrations offers a much-needed boost while paying tribute to our shared history.”