Community

Ariel makes remarkable recovery after major surgery

Published

2 years ago

January 20, 2024

ARIEL, a delightful Cocker Spaniel puppy from Pembrokeshire, has captured the hearts of animal lovers worldwide with her incredible journey of recovery and resilience.

Ariel, who was born with multiple congenital anomalies, including six legs and two vulvas, was tragically abandoned in Pembroke town centre. Fortunately, Greenacres Animal Rescue stepped in to provide her with the care she desperately needed. The initial medical management was undertaken by Fenton Vets and the SMART clinic, who provided the essential early care. However, it soon became apparent that Ariel required specialist intervention, leading to her referral to the renowned Langford Vets at the University of Bristol.

The veterinary team at Langford Vets, including surgeons Aaron Lutchman and Ed Friend, undertook a complex surgical procedure to remove Ariel’s additional limbs. The surgery, while not typical, was described as ‘uneventful’, a testament to the skill and expertise of the medical team. Post-operation, Ariel showed incredible courage and resilience, taking the significant changes in her stride.

Greenacres Rescue has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for Ariel, with her story resonating globally, attracting attention from as far afield as Australia, China, and the USA. The organisation expressed its gratitude to the public for their support and to the veterinary teams for their exceptional care.

In a recent update, Ariel’s leading vet, Aaron, reported that the surgery went very well and Ariel was recovering swiftly. The successful operation has paved the way for Ariel to lead a normal, healthy life, something that seemed almost unattainable given her challenging start in life.

As Ariel continues her recovery, the team at Greenacres Rescue remains dedicated to her care, eagerly anticipating her discharge. This remarkable story of resilience and the triumph of compassionate care has truly captured the hearts of people around the world, serving as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the extraordinary work done by animal rescues and veterinary professionals.

Greenacres Rescue extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who has followed and supported Ariel’s journey, and to the generous donors who contribute to the wellbeing of animals in need.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

14 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

2 days 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

2 days 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)