Community
The Great Pembrokeshire Charity Gunging is back!

AFTER the success of last years fundraising and gunging where almost £1,500 was raised, the same motley crew are back in Pembrokeshire, to raise money for this years BBC Children in Need. Several organisations active within communities across Pembrokeshire, are putting their key personnel forward to participate in another charity gunging!
All those who participated and endured the barrels of gunge last year, are back for 2023, and led by Haverfordwest-based Celtic Timber, and the broadband firm, Ogi. Despite the surreal nature of the actual event, all involved are bonded by the serious facts around raising funds and awareness of what the money donated, could do for our younger residents across Pembrokeshire during this cost of living crisis.
Jon Howcroft from Celtic Timber notes “Having already supported funds being raised for charities including the DPJ Foundation at last years County Show, we were keen to continue to look at opportunities to continue to promote those groups and organisations who can benefit from funds generated by Children in Need. We are lucky to have positive links with partners and individuals engaged in our communities, and when we approached the individuals involved last year, they were all still keen to participate surprisingly!”
Haverfordwest County Football Club are hosting this years Gungeathon at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium on Friday 17th November, with Tony Pennock from the club, again, getting stuck in, as following his gunging last year, he has been teased that the run of winning form for the club, dramatically increased.
Martin Jones from Ogi is one of the participants who is keen to engage and support this fundraiser. “With a strong community focus that Ogi and the team already do here in Pembrokeshire, I was more than happy to get involved once again. Although last year was very cold and wet, it was still great fun and exhilarating, as we all knew that by doing something like this, whilst fun and stupid, it is all to raise awareness and funds for a great cause.”
Iwan Thomas who, as the others involved mocks, that he wears a number of community organisation leadership hats, from PLANED to Pembrokeshire College amongst others here within the county, is still happy to support. “Doing the work I’m able to do with the amazing organisations I’m involved in, is a genuine privilege. By getting involved again in this fundraiser means we can, by stepping outside of our daily comfort zones, do something which raises funds for those who have the real need for this support, and provide additional benefits in some small ways, to their daily challenges. Working alongside this great crew of people is also a bonus, as we know the aim is to improve lives in West Wales. Our own discomfort and embarrassment potentially is meaningless, when you know what the main aim is, for those who need those projects and services to be funded.”
With other participants soon to be announced as well within the mass gunging, the event will be live streamed through the continued support of Pure West Radio, whose own Breakfast DJ, Tom Dyer also got gunged last year – although it was not planned as he was there originally to simply interview the fundraisers primarily. So this year, we understand Tom is coming prepared!
For those who wish to donate, please go to the Just Giving website, and search for Celtic Timber and “The Great Gungefest V2 for Children in Need” and kindly donate whatever you can. https://www.justgiving.com/page/gunge-fest?fbclid=IwAR3T47YcDkXpd3Okos2DdIG1R80xURcIflb73EZjendPpZq_yPr_mMIg-HM
Community
Friends of west Wales museum aim to keep Bronze Age treasure local

THE FRIENDS of Ceredigion Museum in Aberystwyth are seeking support to keep a nationally important hoard of Bronze Age metalwork in the county.
The exciting find of more than 50 bronze tools, weapons and body ornaments was made by metal detectorists Craig Hearne and Kieran Slade in Llangeitho in 2020.
This find of a lifetime was declared as treasure by a coroner under the Treasure Act and an opportunity was given to purchase the hoard for the sum of £4,200.
The Friends of Ceredigion Museum are now raising the funds necessary to ensure that the treasure remains in Ceredigion.
Bronze Age hoards are exceptionally rare in in Ceredigion, where only two vague historical accounts of finds had previously been registered. Their discovery offers important new understanding of the styles and metalworking traditions in Ceredigion around 3,000 years ago.
Their burial represents a considerable gathering of people, choosing to gift their prized bronze objects into the ground, probably as an expression of deep held religious beliefs.
The location of the hoards was investigated by Dyfed Archaeological Trust soon after the finds were reported as treasure, with emergency funding provided by Cadw.
Carrie Canham, Ceredigion Museum curator, said: “We’re very excited at the prospect of keeping these unique and hugely important finds in Ceredigion.
“The hoard offers an important opportunity to glean more information about our prehistoric ancestors and we congratulate the Friends of Ceredigion Museum on their tireless efforts to keep this unique treasure in Ceredigion.”
Bronwen Morgan, Friends of Ceredigion Museum president, said: “This is exciting news about a unique and rare discovery from the Bronze Age in Ceredigion. It is a treasure in the true sense of the word and we are anxious to keep it in Ceredigion.
“We will do all that we can as Friends of Ceredigion Museum to raise the funds to ensure that we and the generations to come can preserve, see and appreciate our heritage in Ceredigion. These items have been in Ceredigion for about 3,000 years and we will now try and make sure that they remain here.”
To learn more and to support their efforts please visit the Friends of Ceredigion Museum website at www.friendsofceredigionmuseum.com
Community
Setting sail into the unknown: Edward’s epic journey from Milford Haven to Auckland

FOR Milford Haven resident Edward Neale, the inspiration to embark on an epic sailing journey across the globe germinated over many years. A seasoned sailor, he harbored dreams of venturing beyond European waters once retired. Little did he know that this desire would blossom into a remarkable voyage, taking him from the tranquil shores of Milford Haven to the vibrant city of Auckland.
Contrary to the trend of charitable sailing expeditions, Neale’s journey wasn’t motivated by a cause. Instead, it was fueled by a deep-seated desire to reunite with his daughter in Auckland, and the aspiration to achieve something profoundly memorable in the process.
Neale’s journey wasn’t his first encounter with the sea. His sailing roots trace back to the 1970s as a member of Milford Haven Sea Cadets, navigating Royal Navy boats and battling seasickness in the English Channel. His maritime journey continued through the merchant navy, sailing a 31ft Westerly Longbow in the 2000s, and culminated in the acquisition of his 38 ft motor sailor Light Symphony, in 2017.
Light Symphony, a 38ft motor sailor built by Austrian company Sunbeam, served as Neale’s steadfast companion. Acquired in 2017, he meticulously outfitted the vessel over two years in Milford Marina, transforming it into a seafaring haven. With two cabins, a well-equipped wheelhouse, and a spacious cockpit, the vessel endured the challenges of the open ocean, a testament to both craftsmanship and Neale’s determination.

Neale’s extensive maritime background, including a four-year deck cadetship, RYA sailing qualification, and experience in the merchant navy, provided him with a solid foundation. Additionally, courses in handling medical emergencies at sea further fortified his readiness for the challenges that lay ahead.
Divided into four stages, the journey commenced in the summer of 2022. Neale’s wife, Janet, joined him for the initial stage to Portugal. Subsequent stages saw the company of friends Phil Jones and Phil Astles, with solo segments navigating the vast expanses of the Atlantic and Pacific.
Unexpected challenges arose, notably encounters with orcas off the coast of Spain. Neale recollects; ” When we reached Gijon in Spain we met a young couple with two small children who had experienced an encounter with orcas. This was a danger I was never expecting to have to deal with. A pod of orcas have taken it upon themselves to “attack” sailing boats by damaging the boat’s rudders, disabling the yachts and forcing them to be towed into port for repairs. There have been many “attacks” over the past few years, with three yachts being sunk when the damage to the rudders caused uncontrolled water ingress.”
Having not anticipated such a threat, Neale adjusted his course, navigating close to the coast to minimize the risk. The Pacific Ocean presented its own trials, with multiple instances of rigging failures requiring innovative repairs, showcasing Neale’s resilience and seamanship.
Choosing to navigate the Panama Canal without a local agent, Neale faced initial difficulties with the canal authority’s web platform. Despite setbacks, he persevered, hiring line handlers and overcoming the unique challenges of providing meals for advisors and crew during the transit.
Low points punctuated the journey during rigging failures, where the imminent collapse of the mast posed a threat to both speed and watertight integrity. Conversely, repairing the rig was a high point, instilling confidence for the remainder of the voyage. The ultimate high was reaching New Zealand, lifting the weight of sailing with a damaged rig.
Gale-force headwinds near New Zealand halted progress for 24 hours, testing both Neale and Light Symphony. The vessel weathered the storm, a testament to its seaworthiness and Neale’s navigational skill.
A failed battery charging system early in the voyage led to the loss of fresh food. Relying on tinned food, Neale made a crucial stop at Rarotonga for fresh supplies during a period of calm weather. The on-board water maker ensured an uninterrupted supply of fresh water.
Fishing attempts varied, with success in the Atlantic but disappointment in the Pacific. Neale’s resourcefulness extended beyond repairs to navigating the challenges of sourcing sustenance on the open sea.
From Milford to Auckland, the journey spanned several stages, totaling months at sea. The Pacific Ocean crossing alone consumed 73 days. While Neale had commitments, the voyage unfolded with a balance between purposeful progression and the unpredictable nature of the open ocean.
A daily blog chronicled Neale’s odyssey, providing a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs. Expressing interest in its publication, the blog stands as a testament to the highs and lows of his maritime adventure.
Neale expressed gratitude to his former colleague Ian Swales, friend Denzil from Ratsey’s Sailmakers, his daughter Rosie for liaising with New Zealand authorities, and a special thank you to his wife Janet for enduring his prolonged absence and the stresses it entailed.
Having achieved his goals in long-distance sailing, Neale envisions future adventures on two wheels, leaning towards motorcycle touring as his next favored pastime.
In sharing his wisdom, Neale emphasizes the need for comprehensive preparation. From tools and spares to diverse knowledge on mechanics, navigation, and survival, he advocates self-sufficiency and a deep understanding of one’s vessel. Knowing the boat inside out, undertaking maintenance personally and being ready for anything are paramount for those aspiring to undertake similar odysseys.
Reflecting on the Pacific crossing, Neale expressed regret at the limited time to explore island groups, citing the need to stay ahead of cyclone seasons. Acknowledging the impact of seasonal timing on the voyage’s enjoyment, he recognizes the delicate balance between commitment and exploration.”
PICTURED ABOVE: Arrival in New Zealand. Edward, Rosie (daughter), Harry (Rosie’s partner)
Community
Jane Dodds MS supports Christmas Jumper Day

JANE DODDS MS for Mid and West Wales has supported Save the Children’s annual Christmas Jumper Day fundraiser on Thursday 7th December by donning their favourite festive knit.
Since 2012, the charity has raised more than £35 million for children around the world by calling on kindred-hearts to help make the world better with a sweater. Funds raised through Christmas Jumper Day will help children get access to food, healthcare, and education.
This year has been far from easy for families living on the lowest incomes in Wales, and part of the money raised will also go towards supporting Save the Children Cymru’s work in providing grants to buy food and essential household items and making sure children can thrive within their communities.
The charity hopes to make this Christmas Jumper Day the most sustainable and ‘green’ one yet and is urging everyone to dig out an old jumper and decorate it with festive trimmings, instead of buying a new jumper. Many schools and organisations are also holding a Christmas Jumper Swap Shop to save the environment, save money and save lives.
Jane Dodds MS has joined with thousands of others in all corners of Wales by wearing their Christmas jumper to promote the day.
Commenting, Jane Dodds MS said: “Everyone can take part in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on 7th December to support children across the globe.
Whether it’s adding decorations to an old jumper, re-wearing last year’s knit, or swapping a woolly with a friend, anything goes – and the more sustainable the better!”
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