Community

Preserving Penrhos Cottage: A Glimpse into Wales’ Rich Architectural Heritage

Published

2 years ago

October 27, 2023

Nestled along a secluded country road near the picturesque village of Llanycefn stands Penrhos Cottage, a remarkable testament to Wales’ ancient home-building traditions. Stepping over its threshold is akin to a journey through time, immersing visitors in a bygone era. This whitewashed thatched property, more than two centuries old, serves as a living relic of a unique Welsh practice known as tŷ unnos, or “house in one night”.

In centuries past, the legality of land ownership was determined by a simple yet challenging rule: if someone could construct a dwelling on common land between dusk and dawn and have a fire lit in the hearth by first light, the land and the house became legally theirs. Moreover, all land within an axe throw of the front door became their rightful possession. Penrhos Cottage stands as a rare survivor of this intriguing tradition, showcasing the resilience and craftsmanship of Welsh builders from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Built around 1800 and later reconstructed with a blend of stone and clom (a mixture of clay, mud, and straw) in 1849, Penrhos Cottage defied the passage of time, housing families despite its modest two-room structure consisting of a kitchen/living area and sleeping quarters. The cottage, now owned by Pembrokeshire County Council, was last occupied by the kind-hearted Williams sisters, Maria and Rachel, until 1968. These sisters, whose generosity and simplicity endeared them to the community, turned Penrhos into a cherished local landmark. Visitors, young and old, were welcomed with sweets and warm smiles, creating cherished memories for generations.

Eifion Evans, a former neighbour, reminisced about the sisters’ kindness and the idyllic simplicity of their lives. “It was a very simple life,” he recalled, his voice laden with nostalgia. Now, the locals, stirred by a collective determination to preserve this historical gem, are mobilising. A new group, named Friends of Penrhos, is set to emerge, comprising passionate individuals eager to safeguard the cottage’s legacy.

The future of Penrhos Cottage hangs in the balance, but hope and determination fill the air. Local author and journalist Hefin Wyn sees Penrhos Cottage not just as a building but as an invaluable treasure. He advocates for its preservation, envisioning it as a museum where visitors can step into the past, learning about the struggles and triumphs of those who once called this humble abode home. Wyn’s optimism resonates within the community, sparking conversations about Penrhos’ potential revival.

Pembrokeshire County Council, recognising the significance of Penrhos Cottage, has expressed openness to collaborating with the newly formed Friends of Penrhos. The council, acknowledging the importance of preserving this historic building, aims to facilitate accessibility and ensure its conservation for future generations.

As the community rallies together, Penrhos Cottage stands not just as a structure but as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the enduring legacy of Welsh traditions. The cottage’s future may be uncertain, but the determination of the people of Llanycefn to safeguard their heritage ensures that the flickering flame of Penrhos’ story will continue to illuminate the hearts and minds of generations to come.

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

18 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

18 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush

A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.

The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.

Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.

He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”

Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.

The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.

Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.

Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).