Community

A town’s farewell to Eric Harries, ‘Mr Milford Haven’

Published

12 months ago

February 3, 2024

ST KATHERINE’S CHURCH in Milford Haven was filled to near capacity on Saturday morning, February 3rd, as the community gathered to pay their last respects to Eric Ronald Harries, a pivotal figure in the town’s history who passed away last month.

The funeral drew a diverse congregation, including family, friends, mayors, councillors, and representatives from various clubs, sports clubs, associations, and charities that Eric was involved with throughout his life.

The Milford Haven Sea Cadets, whose officers served as pallbearers – along with Cllr Colin Sharp – were in attendance, marking the ceremony with a distinctive nautical theme—a fitting tribute to a man whose life was deeply intertwined with the coastal town. In keeping with this the first hymn was ‘Eternal Father, Strong to Save’.

The eulogy, by the officiating minister retired Parish Priest John Davies, captured the essence of Eric Ronald Harries’ indelible mark on Milford Haven, celebrating his lifetime of dedication to the town.

“Eric was such an important person to the town, and there was not a pie in Milford Haven that he did not have his hand in,” it was said.

His numerous accomplishments were listed, highlighting his involvement in a myriad of community activities, local politics and initiatives.

It was noted with admiration that despite his extensive contributions, “it’s surprising he had time for a wife and a family,” yet he did, leaving behind a loving family that includes children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The tribute painted a picture of a man whose life was interwoven with the fabric of Milford Haven, earning him the affectionate nick name “Mr Milford Haven.”

His legacy was celebrated not just for his public service but for his role as a cornerstone of the community, touching the lives of many and leaving a void that will be deeply felt.

As the Mr Harries’ coffin was led out of the church, heading for cremation at Parc Gwyn in Narberth, the orchestral version of the well known song “I am the music man” was played over the church speakers.

Mr Harries’ involvement in the community went beyond political office, touching various groups and organisations. He was a staunch supporter of the Milford Haven Museum, Waterloo Club, and the Milford Haven Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets, among others.

Tributes poured in from all corners of the community, reflecting the profound impact Eric had on Milford Haven. Dan Mills, Chair of Milford Haven Round Table, likened Eric’s motivational speeches to those of Churchill, highlighting his ability to inspire community contribution. Milford historian Jeff Dunn and town councillors Colin Sharp and Terry Davies shared their condolences, acknowledging Eric’s invaluable guidance and fatherly presence within the community.

Eric’s political career was remarkable, beginning as a town councillor in 1964 and serving as mayor in five different decades. His tenure saw him work with 40 different mayors and extend his service to Preseli Pembrokeshire District Council, Dyfed County Council, and Pembrokeshire County Council, where he held several leadership positions, including chair of planning and housing.

Beyond his political endeavors, Eric was instrumental in cultural and community initiatives. He was a founder and long-time chair of the Milford Haven Museum, where he played a crucial role in preserving the town’s heritage. His leadership also benefited the Milford Haven Rugby Football Club and the Sea Cadets, among others.

Reflecting on Eric’s retirement in 2022, Cllr Kathy Gray described him as an iconic figure who embraced change while valuing tradition. His enthusiasm for the town’s development was evident in his participation in significant events, such as the opening of the Ty Hotel.

Eric Harries’ passing is felt deeply within the Milford Haven community. His life and work, characterised by unwavering community service and dedication, leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and guide future generations. As Milford Haven bids farewell to this remarkable individual, his contributions to the town’s history and development will not be forgotten.

Community

Drop in sessions to help reshape Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service

Published

15 hours ago

January 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is pleased to announce the launch of a series of community drop-in sessions designed to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. This initiative aims to identify issues and challenges that may impact the delivery of the Community Risk Management Plan 2040 (CRMP 2040).

The CRMP 2040 outlines the Service’s commitment to addressing risks, threats, and challenges faced by communities. These drop-in sessions provide an opportunity for residents to help shape the future of fire and rescue services in Mid and West Wales, ensuring safety and well-being remain a priority.

Shaping the future together

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Iwan Cray said: “We believe the best way to serve our communities is by involving them in the planning process. These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and collaborate with the people we serve.”

The drop-in sessions, details of which are available on the MAWWFRS website, offer a platform for open dialogue. Residents can share their insights, concerns, and suggestions, contributing to the development of a modern Fire and Rescue Service tailored to their needs.

A data-driven approach

The CRMP 2040 adopts a data-driven approach, focusing on prevention, protection, and response to reduce emergencies’ impact and enhance public safety. By tailoring services to community needs, MAWWFRS is committed to building safer and more resilient communities.

Get involved

Community members are encouraged to attend these sessions and provide their feedback. To thank participants, MAWWFRS is offering a chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher. To enter, simply attend a session and complete the survey.

For more information about the plan or the upcoming drop-in sessions, visit the MAWWFRS website or contact the team at [email protected].

About MAWWFRS

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is dedicated to protecting and serving the communities of Mid and West Wales. Through prevention, protection, and response, the Service works tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.

Community

Landfill odour sparks calls for inquiry and legal action

Published

1 day ago

January 23, 2025

Tom Sinclair

RESIDENTS near Withyhedge landfill in Haverfordwest are demanding a public inquiry and considering legal action after foul odours returned just weeks after the site reopened on 6 January.

The landfill, closed last May to address odour issues, was declared fit to reopen by operator RML, which claimed its improvements would protect nearby communities. However, Colin Barnett, of campaign group Stop the Stink, said: “People in Crundale, Haverfordwest, and Spittal are being subjected to horrendous smells again.”

Describing the site as a “stink bomb on steroids,” Barnett supported Conservative MS Paul Davies’ calls for a public inquiry. “We’ve been flanneled by NRW, public health, and Pembrokeshire council. It’s disgraceful,” he said, adding that delays in resolving the issue had left litigation as the only option.

RML, part of Dauson Environmental Group, is owned by businessman David Neal, who has previous convictions for environmental crimes in 2013 and 2017. Last year, another of Neal’s companies pleaded guilty to environmental offences.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) reported receiving 34 complaints since 6 January, with a rise in recent days coinciding with the end of a slurry-spreading ban. However, NRW stated no odours attributable to the landfill were detected and plans to inspect the site with Pembrokeshire council on 29 January.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “I’ll keep a very close eye on this, and if concerns persist, we’ll discuss further steps with NRW.”

RML and the Welsh Government declined to comment.

Community

Public transport users urged to ‘check before travelling’ due to storm

Published

1 day ago

January 23, 2025

Tom Sinclair

TRANSPORT FOR WALES and Network Rail are urging all customers to check before they travel on Friday morning and into the weekend with weather warnings in place across the country.

With Storm Eowyn set to hit Wales and winds reaching 90mph on Friday morning, customers should expect disruptions and are strongly urged to check before they travel.

There will be alterations to rail services, replacement road transport on certain routes and blanket speed restrictions at some locations, meaning journeys could take longer than usual.

Stand by buses are being planned at key locations around the network in preparation for travel disruption.

Across Wales and the Borders, Network Rail have positioned response teams to address any storm related problems to keep disruption to a minimum.

TfW Operations Director Sarah Higgins said: “It’s so important for our customers to plan ahead when looking to travel this Friday.

“While we’ve made a number of changes to our services based on detailed forecasts, storms can still be unpredictable.

“We’ve seen the impact storms can have, with damage to trains and infrastructure sometimes taking weeks or months to repair, so our cross-industry approach will hopefully limit that and keep our colleagues and customers safe. We apologise to customers for any disruption to their journeys as a result.”

Network Rail Wales & Borders Operations Director Rachel Heath added: “Our priority is always keeping safe everyone who travels and works on the railway.

“Unfortunately, there will be some delays and cancellations on Friday, as trains will not run on some lines and there will speed restrictions on other parts of the route.

“We are working closely with our train operator colleagues to ensure we can safely reopen affected lines as quickly as possible and urge passengers to check before they travel.”

Rail service changes:

No services to run on the Conwy Valley Line all day, with replacement road transport in place.
No services to run on the Heart of Wales line all day, with replacement road transport in place.
Speed restrictions at various locations around the network, meaning some journeys will take longer than usual. These include:

  50mph speed restrictions imposed from 0200 to 1500 Friday on the North Wales Coast – Bodorgan to Llandudno Junction.
  50mph restrictions from 0200 to 1200 between Carmarthen to Kidwelly.
  50mph restrictions from 0200 to 1200 between Neath and Swansea.
  50mph restrictions from 0100 – 0800 between Newport and Llanwern.

Customers who have connecting tickets for the following operators who have suspended services due to the adverse weather conditions, we’ll honour tickets dated 24 January on either Thursday 23 January or up to and including Tuesday 28 January.