‘PEMBROKE town centre bore witness to a tumultuous scene on Thursday evening when a dispute between a group of local youths escalated into a major fracas during the annual Michaelmas Fair.

Tensions flared and spiraled into what can only be described as a full-blown brawl, leaving onlookers stunned by the mayhem that unfolded.

Eyewitnesses recounted the ordeal, with one stating, “The fair attendees were attempting to defuse the situation, but the local youths were unrelenting. It quickly devolved into a mass brawl.”

The incident has ignited fervent calls for an immediate review of the security and oversight measures enforced by the Dyfed-Powys Police and the private security team responsible for managing the three-day extravaganza known as Pembroke’s Michaelmas Fair.

Expressing his concerns, Pembroke town and county councillor, Jonathan Grimes, commented, “I’m afraid the police presence in this vicinity leaves much to be desired. The Pembroke Fair has long been a contentious issue in the town. However, it is an event steeped in history and tradition, spanning centuries.”

Councillor Grimes further noted, “Efforts have been made to engage with the showmen and local businesses before they set up, but these attempts often fall through, and they simply materialize.”

He went on to highlight that nearly two-thirds of Pembroke’s town center is commandeered by rides and stalls, leading to a significant number of local merchants opting to keep their doors closed throughout the event.

“This event kicks off on Thursday evening and continues into Friday evening and all through Saturday, causing substantial disruption,” added Councillor Grimes. “Local shops don’t benefit, and the sole beneficiaries are the showmen.”

Concerns have also been raised regarding the fair’s social impact, particularly on the town’s younger residents. Councillor Grimes stated, “I’m aware that a considerable amount of underage drinking occurs in and around the fair, and naturally, we grapple with a significant drug problem here in Pembroke, as is the case throughout Pembrokeshire.”

Highlighting the role of street pastors, he continued, “Last year, the street pastors were present throughout, often responding to incidents long before the police or PCSOs could arrive. In light of the events on Thursday evening, it is imperative that the entire fair is thoroughly evaluated to prevent such occurrences in the future.”

In the meantime, the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Neighbouring Police Team confirmed that they responded to the street fight incident on Thursday. They also disclosed plans to conduct a post-fair debriefing session with Councillor Grimes to assess this year’s event alongside previous editions.

The origins of the Michaelmas Fair can be traced back to Pembroke’s medieval charters, granting the town the privilege to host markets and fairs during specific times of the year. Traditionally held on the second Thursday in October, it was originally a hiring fair where farm workers sought servants and laborers for the upcoming year.