Charity

Pup plunged off cliffs into sea, rescued in multi-agency operation

Published

9 months ago

February 16, 2024

A DOG named Nell was rescued after a harrowing fall off a cliff opposite Cardigan Island last week.

The incident, which occurred just before noon on Wednesday, February 7, prompted a swift response from multiple agencies.

Nell’s anxious owners immediately raised the alarm after their pet went over the cliff edge. In response, the RNLI’s Cardigan station swiftly launched its D class inshore lifeboat, while coastguard teams from Cardigan, New Quay, and Fishguard were dispatched to the scene.

Demonstrating exceptional skill and speed, the lifeboat crew, led by Helmsman Stewart, navigated the challenging waters to reach the cliffs. Volunteer crew member Sam played a crucial role in the rescue, exiting the lifeboat to climb over to where Nell had landed. Bravely carrying the dog, Sam descended the cliff and, with Nell in tow, swam back to the safety of the lifeboat.

Once aboard, Nell was immediately wrapped in a dry towel and comforted by the crew as they made their way back to Patch. There, the coastguard took over, ensuring Nell was reunited with her grateful owner and taken to a vet for a thorough check-up.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Peter Austin praised the operation, highlighting the exceptional teamwork and dedication shown by all involved. “It has been a great team effort, and everyone should be very proud of what we have achieved in the last few months,” he said. Despite a relative lull in rescue operations, the Cardigan station’s volunteers have been busy with extensive training exercises, both on and off the water.

The incident has led HM Coastguard Rescue Service and the RNLI to issue a reminder to dog walkers about the dangers of cliff edges. They advise keeping pets on leads to prevent such accidents. “Dogs can get into trouble while exploring, so always keep them on a lead at the coast, especially near cliff edges,” a HM Coastguard spokesperson stated. They also warned against attempting to rescue pets in peril, noting that while most dogs manage to return safely, their owners might not be as fortunate.

The RNLI echoed this advice, stressing the importance of keeping dogs on leads near dangerous terrains and advising against entering the water or mud to rescue a pet. “If you’re worried, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard,” they added, ensuring that professional help is always available for both pets and their owners in distress.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

4 days 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.”

Charity

Milford Haven RNLI celebrates heartfelt donation from Neyland Ladies Choir

Published

4 days ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN RNLI Fundraising Group received a generous donation of over £1,000 from Neyland Ladies Choir this October, marking a touching tribute to Mrs. Dorothy Beckett, one of the RNLI’s longest-standing supporters.

The Neyland Ladies Choir held a special concert at St. Mary’s Church on Waterloo Road, Hakin, to celebrate Dorothy Beckett’s 90th birthday. A lifelong supporter of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Dorothy has played a crucial role in lifeboat fundraising in the Milford Haven area, dating back to the 1970s. She was instrumental in establishing the Hakin Point RNLI fundraising group, which has raised over £500,000 to support the RNLI’s lifesaving work.

The concert’s proceeds were presented in a moving ceremony at Bethesda Baptist Church in Neyland. Accepting the donation on behalf of the RNLI were Steve Lewis, Chairman of the fundraising group, and Thomas Kehoe, Deputy Coxswain of the Angle Lifeboat.

Adding to the evening’s celebrations, Alice Coleman, RNLI Community Manager, presented Dorothy with the Long Service Medal, recognizing her fifty years of dedication to the institution. This award, given by the RNLI, honors Dorothy’s unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea.

“Thank you, Neyland Ladies Choir and Dorothy Beckett,” said the RNLI in a heartfelt message to the community. “Your support and dedication mean the world to us.”

The Milford Haven RNLI Fundraising Group encourages supporters to share and spread the word, hoping that Dorothy’s legacy inspires continued community support.

Charity

NHS staff take on Parkrun for charity

Published

2 weeks ago

November 7, 2024

Richard Lewis

STAFF from the Frailty Unit at Withybush Hospital took part in the Haverfordwest Parkrun and raised a fantastic £1,478 for the unit.

The staff took part in the 5k Parkrun in August at the Haverfordwest cricket club, whilst others volunteered, sold refreshments and held a raffle.

Lisa Marshall, Senior Sister, said: “I am so proud of Estelle and the team for organising a successful fundraiser and helping to raise money for our unit.

“It was a great team building day and we all had lots of fun. We are as always grateful for the support and donations we receive, and we look forward to our next fundraiser!”

Katie Hancock, Pembrokeshire Fundraising Officer, said: “We’d like to say a big thank you and well done to Estelle, Lisa and the Frailty Unit team for completing their Parkrun fundraiser.

“Thank you so much for dedicating your time to once again raising funds for your amazing unit.

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

For more details about the NHS charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to the Hywel Dda Charities website.