Community

Humpback whale provides rare and thrilling spectacle in Fishguard

Published

2 years ago

January 19, 2024

A MAGNIFICANT humpback whale provided a rare and thrilling spectacle for onlookers as it made a close approach to the Pembrokeshire coast, specifically in the vicinity of Fishguard Harbour. This extraordinary event took place today, captivating crowds who eagerly gathered at key vantage points including the inner breakwater, the historic Old Fort, and the convent.

The majestic creature was first sighted in Fishguard Bay during the morning hours and lingered in the bay until the early afternoon. This extended stay offered an unparalleled opportunity for residents and visitors to witness the whale in its natural habitat.

The excitement peaked just after 1pm when the whale was observed maneuvering between the end of the inner breakwater and the Old Fort, eventually making its way towards Goodwick. It surfaced near Fisherman’s Quay, to the amazement of onlookers. Initial concerns grew for the whale’s wellbeing as it ventured closer to the shore, but these fears were allayed when the animal gracefully turned and travelled up alongside the inner breakwater. In a breathtaking display, it came astonishingly close to the awe-struck crowd before confidently heading back out to sea.

Cliff Benson of Sea Trust, with over three decades of experience in marine observation, remarked on the rarity of such a sighting in these waters. “In my 30 years of doing this, I have only ever seen a humpback once before off the coast of Pembrokeshire, and that was at Strumble Head,” he said. According to Benson, the appearance of the humpback whale near Fishguard could be attributed to the pursuit of herring, which have recently returned to the bay. This event aligns with recent increased dolphin activity in the harbour.

The Pembrokeshire coast, known for its diverse marine life, has been a sighting ground for various species, including Minke whales, orcas, and Risso’s dolphins. The addition of humpback whales to this list highlights the region’s ecological significance and underscores the importance of continued efforts in marine conservation and research.

Humpback whales, known for their impressive size and distinctive body shape, are a migratory species and are often celebrated for their acrobatic displays and melodic songs. This encounter serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity in our oceans and the need to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats for future generations to enjoy and study.

This remarkable encounter with a humpback whale not only adds to the natural allure of the Pembrokeshire coast but also provides valuable insight for marine biologists and conservationists who continually monitor and study these majestic giants of the sea.

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

17 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

18 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush

A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.

The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.

Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.

He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”

Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.

The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.

Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.

Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).