News

English-only Christmas lights spark controversy in Cardigan

Published

1 year ago

December 13, 2023

CARDIGAN has found itself at the centre of a festive dispute for the second consecutive year, as residents express disappointment over the decision to display Christmas lights in English rather than Welsh.

In a community where the Welsh language is a pillar of local identity, the town’s choice to use “Merry Christmas” instead of “Nadolig Llawen” has stirred emotions. Rosemary Elias, a local resident, firmly believes in bilingual representation. “This is Wales,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of honoring Welsh heritage.

Financial challenges have been cited by the town council as a key obstacle in sourcing Welsh language decorations. Despite promises made by Town Councillor John Adams Lewis for bilingual decor this year, the council has struggled to meet these expectations. “We’re a historical town and Welsh should be given priority,” Lewis remarked, expressing his disappointment over the situation.

Speaking to the BBC, another resident,Donna Williams, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the town’s Welsh-speaking majority. She recalls how local businesses contributed funds for the lights a few years ago, suggesting that the community could have had a say in the language choice.

Efforts to source affordable Welsh language Christmas lights have been ongoing, according to Councillor Stephen Greenhalgh. He remains hopeful for a more inclusive display in the coming year, mentioning plans to project “Nadolig Llawen” onto the town’s castle wall as a temporary solution.

Resident Simon Whitehead and visitor Christine Cadwgan also weighed in, advocating for bilingual signs. Cadwgan, while understanding of non-Gaelic speaking regions like Scotland, still sees value in honoring the local language.

Cardigan Mayor Sian Maehrlein announced the successful procurement of Welsh language Christmas lights for the next festive season, ensuring a brighter bilingual future for the town.

Charity

Letterston dog show raises over £750 for local charities

Published

6 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SUNDAY (Dec 22), Letterston Ring Craft successfully raised £755.55 for two Pembrokeshire-based charities during a fun dog show event. The funds were equally split between South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue and Letterston Memorial Hall.

The event featured a variety of well-attended classes, including child handling and fancy dress, drawing participation from dog enthusiasts of all levels.

This fundraiser marked the first charitable event supporting South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue. Founded and managed by Lizzy Austwick, the rescue organisation aids unwanted, feral, and sick cats across Pembrokeshire and responds to urgent cases in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. The rescue provides neutering support for stray and feral cats, directs owners to available resources, and specialises in helping stray cats with severe injuries, raising essential funds for their care.

For assistance, Lizzy can be contacted via the rescue’s Facebook page or at 07575 131443.

Letterston Ring Craft welcomes new members interested in training and showing their dogs, from local companion shows to prestigious events like Crufts. The club meets every other Sunday in Letterston, and further details can be found on their Facebook page.

Looking ahead, the next fun dog show is scheduled for early next year and will support Belle’s Story Charity. For more information or to get involved, contact Gentle Lowe at 07956 653401.

Charity

£3,800 donated to services across Withybush Hospital

Published

8 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE CAMROSE VINTAGE WORKING DAY team has donated £3,800 to services across Withybush Hospital.

Their 37^th annual event raised a record breaking £25,000, which has now been distributed among 26 local charities.

They donated the funds to the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit and Heads Up! Hair Loss Initiative at Withybush Hospital. Each service received £950.

The Heads Up! initiative provides a person-centred, holistic hair loss service for cancer patients. It brings together healthcare and haircare professionals from local communities to give patients the knowledge and products needed to manage their hair loss with dignity and choice.

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “Thank you to Andrew, the team and the supporters of the Camrose Vintage Working Day for your generosity once again. Your donation to each service is amazing and will make a big difference. We are hugely grateful for your wonderful support.

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

Pictured above: Andrew James, Chairman of Camrose Vintage Working Day with Withybush Hospital staff from the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit, Heads Up! Hair Loss initiative.

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

8 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.

A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.