Entertainment

ITV drama unveils shocking Fujitsu revelations in Post Office scandal

Published

1 year ago

January 4, 2024

VIEWERS in Pembrokeshire were left in disbelief during the latest episode of the gripping ITV drama, “Mr Bates vs The Post Office,” which shed light on the alleged tampering of the secure £1 billion IT system by Fujitsu staff.

The series, based on the real-life saga of postmaster Alan Bates, portrayed how innocent subpostmasters, accused due to the faulty Horizon system, faced charges of theft, fraud, and false accounting.

One of those postmasters was a former sub-postmaster from the north of the county who was caught up in the scandal. In 2021 he had had his conviction for false accounting overturned.

Pembrokeshire postmaster cleared of fraud by the Court of Appeal

Tim Brentnall, from Roch, was prosecuted in 2010 after a £22,000 shortfall was discovered at his branch. He is one of 736 former Post Office managers prosecuted due to the flawed Horizon computer system. Mr Brentnall told The Pembrokeshire Herald at the time that it had taken 16 years of stress to clear his name.

The second episode of the series, which is available on ITV Player, depicted a scene that left viewers ‘sickened.’ It revealed how Fujitsu, hired by the Post Office, remotely altered subpostmasters’ financial figures without their knowledge. The shocking revelation contradicted the Post Office’s prosecution strategy, which asserted that no one could access the tills without the subpostmasters’ awareness.

Actor Toby Jones, portraying Alan Bates, led the campaign to expose what is now considered the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British history. The series highlighted the injustice faced by innocent subpostmasters, including Michael Rudkin (played by Shaun Dooley), who had been wrongly convicted due to the faulty Horizon system.

**Court of Appeal: Postmasters protest**

Former Fujitsu engineer Richard Roll, a whistleblower who exposed remote access to accounts in 2015, was part of a team of 30 engineers with access to terminals remotely. The mounting pressure from Bates’ Justice For Subpostmasters Alliance (JFSA) group, backed by several MPs, prompted the Post Office to launch an independent investigation.

As investigator Bob Rutherford delves into the scandal, the episode unfolds with shocking revelations. Subpostmistress Saman Kaur pleads guilty to charges, revealing problems arising after receiving a new Horizon PIN pad. Other victims, Jo Hamilton and Noel Thomas, admit guilt, prompting calls for a change in pleas.

**Changing the numbers: Japanese tech firm Fujitsu**

The narrative takes a dramatic turn in Hampshire, where MP James Arbuthnot discusses justice plans with Jo Hamilton, uncovering two additional cases in his constituency. The episode exposes a second JFSA meeting, where Michael Rudkin reveals his visit to Fujitsu HQ, exposing the potential for remote access to branch accounts.

However, the drama intensifies when Angela, Head of Network Systems at the Post Office, denies the allegations, claiming Mr. Rudkin had only been taken to a ‘Test Environment.’ The investigator’s pursuit of the truth becomes challenging as he faces skepticism and resistance.

The episode concludes with viewers expressing their disgust at the revelations, questioning the collaboration between Fujitsu and the Post Office. Social media platforms were flooded with comments condemning the actions depicted in the drama, with many calling for justice to be served.

The series has received widespread praise since its New Year’s Day premiere, providing a poignant portrayal of the Post Office scandal. As the investigation continues, the nation awaits further revelations that could reshape perceptions of this unprecedented miscarriage of justice.

Entertainment

Musical treat at The Lyric Theatre in Carmarthen

Published

18 hours ago

January 9, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A SPECIAL charity concert at The Lyric Theatre in Carmarthen this month promises to be a musical extravaganza, featuring the world-famous Cory Band and the acclaimed Bella Voce female vocal group.

Organised by the Carmarthen Tywi Rotary Club, the concert will take place on Saturday, January 18, at 7:30pm. Proceeds from the evening will support local charities and worthy causes.

A spokesperson for Carmarthen Tywi Rotary Club said: “This is a wonderful way to ring in the New Year with the breathtaking Cory Band and the stunning harmonies of Bella Voce. Tickets are expected to sell quickly as the Cory Band, the current Welsh Brass Band champions, bring their exceptional talent to Carmarthen. It’s brass band music at its finest.”

Tickets in demand

Tickets are priced at £22.50 and £20 and can be purchased through The Lyric box office, the Theatrau Sir Gâr website, or by calling 0345 226 3510.

The Cory Band: A global sensation

The Cory Band, formed in 1884 and later named after colliery owner Sir Clifford Cory, is renowned worldwide for its exceptional brass music. Under the baton of musical director Philip Harper since 2012, the band has won numerous prestigious titles, including European, National, and British Open championships.

For an unprecedented 16 years (2007–2023), the Cory Band held the title of the world’s No.1 ranked brass band. Their innovative approach has made them a trailblazer in the genre, and in 2022 they received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for their contributions to the brass band movement.

The band’s repertoire, described as scintillating, engaging, and universally appealing, has earned them acclaim from audiences across the globe. Beyond competitions, the Cory Band has toured extensively in countries including Australia, the USA, and South Korea. They are also the resident ensemble at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

Bella Voce: Pembrokeshire’s pride

Pembrokeshire-based vocal group Bella Voce, led by musical director Sarah Benbow and accompanist Seimon Morris, is celebrated for its versatility and stunning performances. Comprising professional women with rich musical backgrounds—including multiple music degrees and Grade 8 qualifications—the group achieves excellence with minimal rehearsal time.

Known for their adaptability across genres, Bella Voce has performed alongside icons such as Max Boyce, the Three Welsh Tenors, and Katherine Jenkins, as well as at prestigious venues including St Davids Cathedral and the Royal Albert Hall.

A Rotary Club spokesperson added: “Bella Voce captivates audiences with their breathtaking sound and extraordinary talent. Their instrumental and vocal soloists add a unique touch to their performances, which makes every concert unforgettable.”

Hosted by a local favourite

The evening will be compered by Robert Lloyd, former editor of the Carmarthen Journal and past president of Llanelli Rotary Club.

This is a rare opportunity to enjoy two outstanding musical acts in one evening while supporting a great cause. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable night at The Lyric Theatre

Entertainment

Theatre company in mourning for costume queen matriarch, Linda Ogilvie-Davies

Published

4 days ago

January 6, 2025

Sarah Jane Absalom

Pembrokeshire theatre company FADDS has dropped the curtain on its annual post-Christmas pantomime following the death of costume matriarch Linda Ogilvie-Davies who died at Withybush Hospital on December 6.

The FADDS production company planned to open Aladdin later this month, however the production has now been postponed, as a mark of respect to Linda.

A native of Chicago, she moved to London where she worked for Jasper Conran as well as being a buyer for Harvey Nichols.

Following her move to Fishguard, she got involved with FADDS and spent the next 20 years creating costumes for all of the company’s shows. She volunteered at the theatre as well as at the local animal welfare shop and every Christmas, she allowed the town’s Christmas tree to be plugged into her electric supply.

“Linda would help everybody and quietly waved her magic wand, helping so many people without even realising it,” said theatre member, Sharon Jenkins.

“She really was a matriarch of the FADDS theatre group.”

This was endorsed by FADDS director, Jana Davidson.

“Not only was she our costume queen but she was also our matriarch, mentor, supporter and, most importantly our friend,” she said.

“She had a way of connecting with everyone, whatever background or age and was adored by the youth. Her no nonsense, firm but fair attitude was met with the highest respect from everyone, and she was adored by us all.

“She leaves an immeasurable hole in our FADDS family, but we know she will shine down on us always, and her legacies will continue.”

Aladdin will be the company’s 30th pantomime at Theatr Gwaun. For information on when it will now be performed, visit FADDS Production Company on Facebook.

Entertainment

Body slamming entertainment at the Torch Theatre!

Published

5 days ago

January 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

FROM Port Talbot to Llanelli and Porthcawl to Lampeter, the Superstars of Welsh Wrestling are on the road around the country and are getting ready to rumble! They’ll bring their live body slamming family entertainment show to the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, for a one-night extravaganza that you won’t want to miss!

Since its establishment in 2005, Welsh Wrestling has cemented its status as the number one wrestling promotion in Wales, running top quality wrestling shows all over the country in some of the most prestigious venues and theatres. Throughout each year the Superstars of Welsh Wrestling perform in front of several thousand fans, guaranteeing each paying customer of all ages a fun, action-packed, family night out.

Witness the wrestling extravaganza at the Torch that’s guaranteed to get children (and adults) screaming and cheering for their favourite wrestler and making memories that last a lifetime. Pop down to the Torch and witness the glamour and chaos in this showcase of entertainment and athleticism in a memorable family night out.

The Welsh Wrestling Facebook page has information on its Wales tour with positive feedback from several audience members with one being quoted as saying:

“What a fantastic night. My two grandsons loved every minute of the show. A great show designed with families in mind. I will highly recommend this to all friends and family. Thanks for a great evening!”

Welsh Wrestling will be live at the Torch Theatre wrestling ring on Sunday 23 February at 5pm. Ticket prices: Family: £45. Adult: £15. Child: £12. For tickets phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.