News

Animal welfare concerns to be addressed at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court

Published

2 years ago

October 18, 2023

A SIGNIFICANT welfare case is set to unfold at the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, as allegations of neglect and cruelty to animals come to light.

Rebecca Edwards, aged 35, from Tan Y Banc, Cenarth, Newcastle Emlyn, Ceredigion, is facing multiple charges relating to causing unnecessary suffering to various equines. Her alleged negligence is believed to have led to severe health issues among the animals, some of which include fractured pelvises, poor body condition, dental diseases, and even infected wounds. The charges detail neglect spanning from late February to late March 2023.

Specifically, among the charges, Edwards is accused of neglecting the needs of 14 equines, leading some to suffer from conditions such as a fractured pelvis. Another charge cites neglect towards a black Welsh mare, which allegedly resulted in a poor body condition and an infected wound. Similarly, a skewbald Welsh mare cross is said to have been neglected, leading to dental disease, while a bay Welsh mare allegedly suffered from sharp teeth that caused ulcerations due to lack of care.

Furthermore, Edwards is also charged with failing to provide adequate nutrition, a suitable environment, farrier attention, dental and veterinary treatment, and preventative treatment for lice for the equines between January and March 2023.

The gravity of the case is underscored by applications made under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has made an application concerning several of the equines, seeking their possession under section 18(5) of the Animal Welfare Act. Another application calls for the animals to be disposed of in a manner other than sale, highlighting the severe conditions they may have endured.

The case is listed for its first hearing, with Edwards being represented by the solicitors from O’Garra Cohen Cramer. The session is scheduled between 12:00 and 16:00 in Courtroom 1.

Animal rights activists and welfare groups are expected to closely follow the proceedings, given the serious nature of the allegations.

The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future animal welfare cases in the region. If found guilty, Edwards could face up to six months imprisonment or an unlimited fine, as per sections of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Crime

Police stop car in Pennar as three arrested in drugs investigation

Published

13 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Suspected drug driver report leads to major police response and multiple arrests

DRAMATIC scenes were reported in Pennar on Monday afternoon (Mar 23) after multiple police vehicles were deployed to stop a car.

The incident happened at around 5:00pm near Pennar Court, Pembroke Dock, where officers located a stationary vehicle following reports of a suspected drug driver in the area.

Police attended and pre-emptively stopped the vehicle, also blocking a second car nearby.

Officers carried out searches of both vehicles and discovered suspected controlled substances.

A 32-year-old woman and a 47-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possessing class A and class B drugs with intent to supply. A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and possession of class A and class B drugs with intent to supply.

The 32-year-old woman has been released under investigation, while the 31-year-old man and 47-year-old woman have been released on unconditional bail.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the incident followed reports of a man believed to be driving under the influence in the area earlier that afternoon.

Crime

Sex offender jailed for sending explicit messages to ’14-year-old’ girls

Published

13 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Sarah Jane Absalom

A MAN has been jailed after sending sexual messages on Snapchat to three girls he believed were aged 14.

Ciaran Carmody, aged 21, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court via video link from HM Wrexham prison, where he admitted three offences of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child under 16.

The court heard the messages were sent on three separate occasions to accounts posing as 14-year-old girls, which were in fact part of an undercover police operation.

Prosecutor Nia James said each of the girls made their age clear, but the messages sent by Carmody were sexual in nature.

The offences took place between April 25 and May 5, 2025.

Finance

Haverfordwest savers encouraged to seek clarity ahead of ISA tax year end

Published

13 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

TWO in three savers say a fixed interest rate would give them greater peace of mind when planning their finances, according to new research from Principality Building Society*, as people in Haverfordwest are encouraged to review their savings ahead of the ISA tax year deadline.

The research, conducted with more than 1,500 people, also found that while many savers feel comfortable managing their money independently, a significant number still value the reassurance of speaking to someone when making important financial decisions.

Meanwhile, around one in six people mistakenly believe they must open a new ISA every tax year, highlighting ongoing confusion around how ISAs work. In many cases, particularly for variable savings products, savers may be able to continue paying into an existing ISA.

With the tax year end approaching, Principality Building Society is inviting Members and local savers to speak with colleagues at its High Street branch in Haverfordwest to better understand their options and make informed choices about how to use their ISA allowance.

The research also highlights the appeal of certainty when it comes to savings. Two in three savers say a fixed rate would give them peace of mind, reflecting the reassurance that comes from knowing exactly what return they will receive over a set period. Fixed rate Cash ISAs can provide that certainty, making it easier for some savers to plan ahead.

Vicky Wales, Chief Savings and Lending Officer at Principality Building Society, said: “ISA season can often feel busy and confusing, particularly against the backdrop of changes in the wider financial environment. Many people value the opportunity to talk through their options and feel confident they’re making the right decision.

Every saver’s situation is unique, so having a conversation can help people better understand their choices and how these align with their longer-term plans. Understanding the differences between savings products – including fixed and variable rates – can help savers make the most of their ISA allowance, and ensure their money is working in a way that suits their individual goals.”

Principality Building Society is encouraging anyone in Haverfordwest who would like to review their savings ahead of the tax year end to visit their local branch for a supportive conversation about their options, and how they can make the most of their savings.

Source: Principality Building Society’s own online community, Member Pulse, survey on Cash ISAs, March 2026 (total respondents: 1,544)