DECEMBER marks 65 years of Ivor the Engine, the much-loved green steam train from the “top left-hand corner of Wales.” First brought to life on television in 1959, Ivor has charmed generations with heartwarming tales set in the fictional village of Llaniog.

To celebrate, Candy Jar Books has re-published the original 1962 picture book. Featuring Oliver Postgate’s captivating storytelling and Peter Firmin’s timeless illustrations, the restored edition is now available in both paperback and hardback.

Created by Postgate and Firmin’s Smallfilms, Ivor the Engine was a pioneer of imaginative children’s television. Its distinctive stop-motion animation, painted watercolour cut-outs, and whimsical bassoon soundtrack helped cement it as a key part of British cultural history.

The series followed Ivor and his driver, Jones the Steam, alongside a memorable cast of characters including Evans the Song and Idris the dragon. Inspired by Dylan Thomas’ Under Milk Wood, the show portrayed Welsh life with charm and humour.

In recent years, Ivor’s legacy has been revived. Stars like Eddie Izzard, Cerys Matthews, and Rob Brydon voiced new audiobook stories during lockdown, reconnecting audiences with the steam engine’s magic. Earlier this year, Ivor was also honoured as the only fictional member of the Great Little Trains of Wales.

With remastered episodes now streaming on BritBox and ITVX, and the restored book back on shelves, Ivor the Engine continues to delight both nostalgic fans and new audiences.

Paperback £12.99 / Hardback £20.00. Available from www.candy-jar.co.uk and in all good bookshops.

Pembrokeshire was officially established as a county in 1536. Since then, not only has it become a popular place to live, but it has also established itself a favoured tourist destination for both Welsh residents and those further afield. 

So, how has the well-known county developed in the last 30-or-so years and become the admired seaside county that we know today? Let’s take a more in-depth look at the history of Pembrokeshire, from population and tourism, to house prices and entertainment options. 

Population 

As a place to live, Pembrokeshire has grown in popularity in the last few decades. Since 1981, over 16,000 more people have moved to Pembrokeshire. As of 2024, the population of Pembrokeshire is 123,700. 

Houses

In the last year, house prices in Pembrokeshire were, on average, £238,000. That’s slightly lower than the UK’s national average, which came in at £267,200. In comparison, the average house price in Pembrokeshire almost 30 years ago, in 1995, was just £54,124.

Tourists

Pembrokeshire offers plenty to see and do and has made a name for itself as an ideal holiday destination, particularly in the summer months. With attractions like the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, that attracts around 250,000 people each year, and the highly regarded Pembroke Castle, it’s no wonder visitors keep coming back. 

The tourism scene in Pembrokeshire contributes a significant amount to the local economy and, in 2021, an estimated 6.4 million people visited the seaside county. This is an increase of 2.1 million since 2010, which saw 4.2 million tourists. 

Entertainment

The world of retail has taken a dive in Pembrokeshire in recent years, with a 9.6% decline in 2015. Considering there has been a 16% decline in UK shoppers visiting retailers since the COVID-19 pandemic, this downward trend is unfortunately likely to continue. 

It’s not just shops that have taken a back seat. Despite being a Welsh staple, bingo halls have taken a hit due to the popularity of online bingo games. However, this isn’t a Pembrokeshire-specific issue. It’s estimated there are now only 260 dedicated bingo halls left in the UK. 

What is the future of Pembrokeshire? 

As a popular and well-known Welsh destination with plenty to offer, it’s unlikely Pembrokeshire will ever lose its popularity as a summer holiday destination and tourism will remain one of its highest economic factors. As Wales has proved itself to be on the more affordable side of the UK, it’s anticipated to remain a popular place to live in Wales. 

Rock icons Reef are bringing their electrifying energy to Tenby as part of their 30th Anniversary Tour on Saturday, November 1st, at the De Valence Pavilion. Celebrating three decades of hits, including their chart-topping anthem Place Your Hands, Reef promises a night of nostalgia and rock-fueled excitement. Known for their dynamic live performances, the band has built a legacy with hits from albums like their platinum-selling Glow.

Tickets are flying off the shelves for this highly anticipated event, sponsored by the Pembrokeshire Herald. The De Valence Pavilion, a vibrant venue in the heart of Tenby, is the perfect stage for this unforgettable show. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of music history—get your tickets now via SeeTickets before they sell out​

Make it a full experience by exploring Tenby’s coastal charm and dining spots before the gig—perfect for an epic night out!

Tickets available here: https://www.seetickets.com/event/reef-replenish-30th-anniversary-tour/de-valence-pavilion/3254246