Community

Rising demand for food banks sparks concern despite fewer parcels in Pembrokeshire

Published

6 months ago

November 8, 2023

NEW DATA released by the Trussell Trust, the UK’s leading food bank charity, has revealed a concerning trend: while Pembrokeshire saw a decrease in the number of food parcels distributed between April and September this year, the overall demand for essential items across the UK has reached unprecedented levels. The figures have raised alarms, prompting calls for urgent action to address the root causes of hunger and poverty.

According to the Trussell Trust, five food banks in Pembrokeshire distributed 1,629 emergency food parcels during the specified period, marking a slight decline from the 1,674 parcels handed out in the same timeframe the previous year. However, this decrease in Pembrokeshire contrasts sharply with the national landscape. Across the UK, a record-breaking 1.5 million food parcels were distributed, indicating a surge of 200,000 more parcels than in the summer of 2022.

Emma Revie, the Chief Executive of the Trussell Trust, expressed her deep concern, describing the escalating demand for essentials across the country as “extremely alarming”. She highlighted the grim reality faced by many families, where parents and children are forced to rely on food banks to meet their basic needs. “An increasing number of children are growing up in families facing hunger, forced to turn to food banks to survive,” Ms. Revie stated, adding that such a situation was far from acceptable for any community.

The figures released by the charity showed that 607 of the food parcels distributed in Pembrokeshire during the summer months were specifically allocated to children. Ms. Revie emphasized the profound impact that hunger and financial hardship have on individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole. She further expressed her concern that a whole generation might grow up perceiving food bank reliance as a normal part of life.

Wales and the North East of England emerged as the regions with the highest levels of food bank usage, with one parcel distributed for every 35 residents in both areas. In response to the rising crisis, the Trussell Trust has called for an “essentials guarantee”, urging that Universal Credit should shield people from going without basic necessities. Additionally, they have advocated for benefits to rise in line with inflation in the upcoming Autumn Statement.

However, the Department for Work and Pensions defended its efforts, pointing out that there are 1.7 million fewer people in absolute poverty than in 2010. A spokesperson stated, “We are providing a record support package worth £3,300 per household, including cost of living payments directly to over eight million households, a 10% increase in benefits earlier this year, and our £2 billion Household Support Fund to help people purchase essentials.” The government’s focus remains on getting more people into employment through strategic investments and an increase in the national living wage.

Despite the apparent efforts, the statistics reflect a sobering reality: many families continue to struggle, and the need for comprehensive, sustainable solutions to tackle the root causes of poverty has never been more urgent. As the nation grapples with this crisis, community leaders, policymakers, and citizens alike are left pondering the future, hoping for a day when food banks are no longer a necessity but a relic of a more equitable past.

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

13 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

13 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Community

Train disruption expected due to essential works at Clarbeston Road

Published

14 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PASSENGERS are being asked to check before they travel between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour next week when Network Rail will be carrying out essential work on the platforms at Clarbeston Road station.

Buses will replace trains at all stops between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour on the West Wales lines from Saturday to Tuesday 27-30 April inclusive.

Network Rail engineers will be working at Clarbeston Road station, preparing the platforms to be able to accommodate new Class 197 trains.

The work will include lowering the platforms by removing the coping stones on the platform edge, altering walls, installing new coping stones, and finally laying new tarmac surfacing.

Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director, said: “These essential works will prepare Clarbeston Road station to accommodate the new Class 197 trains our colleagues at TfW are introducing.
“We’re grateful to passengers and local residents living near Clarbeston Road station for their patience and understanding while we carry out this important work.”

The line between Carmarthen and Milford Haven will also be shut all day on Sunday 12 May and Sunday 19 May, when buses will again replace trains, as Network Rail engineers carry out essential track renewals on a 100-metre stretch of track near Haverfordwest station.