Community

‘Stop the Stink’ protesters confront landfill site owner at public meeting

Published

10 months ago

January 27, 2024

IN the shadow of the Withyhedge Landfill near Haverfordwest, a determined crowd of protesters, donned in high-visibility vests and fueled by deep-seated frustration, gathered on Friday (JAN 26) to challenge the ongoing issues emanating from the site.

The “Stop the Stink” protest, a community-driven response to the overwhelming odour and environmental concerns, marked a significant escalation in public outcry.

The protest, organised by local activist Colin Barnett, witnessed an impactful moment as protesters infiltrated a ‘meet the team’ session, directly confronting David Neal, the owner of the Withyhedge landfill site.

Neal, facing a barrage of questions from the floor for 45 minutes, acknowledged the public’s concerns regarding the odour and its adverse effects on the community’s health and wellbeing.

Residents expressed their anguish over the unbearable stench from the landfill and the increased traffic of trucks witnessed in recent months.

Neal revealed that the site was receiving waste from Cardiff, with some Pembrokeshire waste being transported back, a revelation that added to the residents’ frustrations.

Amidst the heated exchange, Neal proposed the possibility of funding sensors to monitor air quality, not just around the landfill’s perimeter but also in the most affected communities.

The protest underscored the community’s dissatisfaction with the responses from Resources Management UK Ltd (RML) and their communication team, Grasshopper, who were notably absent during the confrontation.

This meeting precedes the crucial “Stop The Stink” public meeting scheduled for February 28 at Spittal School, where the landfill’s progress and future strategies will be scrutinised.

Recalling the earlier articles I wrote, this ongoing issue has been a source of distress for local residents for months. The odour, described as a “stink bomb on steroids,” has been a persistent problem, with the smell of rotting rubbish infiltrating homes miles away. The severity of the situation is magnified by health concerns, with residents like Derek Harries, suffering from COPD, finding the stench pervading their homes.

RML’s attempts to rectify the issue have been met with skepticism, especially given the historical context of company director David John Neal’s previous legal troubles over illegal dumping. The community’s trust in the landfill’s management and the regulatory body, Natural Resources Wales (NRW), remains fragile.

The upcoming public meeting will be a pivotal moment for all stakeholders, including NRW, local politicians, and Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC), to address the community’s grievances. The lack of a comprehensive monitoring system for the odour’s toxicity, not just its intensity, remains a significant concern.

As Pembrokeshire grapples with this environmental and public health crisis, the “Stop the Stink” movement represents more than just a protest against a foul odour. It’s a call for accountability, transparency, and, most importantly, a sustainable solution to a problem that has plagued the community for far too long.

*Protestors condemn pollution from site (Image: BBC News Hub)*

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

11 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

21 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

23 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.