News

Pembrokeshire builder died from asbestos-related disease, inquest finds

Published

2 years ago

February 23, 2024

A RESPECTED Pembrokeshire builder, credited with contributing significantly to the development of a key county town, has tragically died from an asbestos-related illness, an inquest was told on Wednesday (Feb 21).

Kenneth John Harding, who moved to Milford Haven from Cardiff in his childhood, passed away following a battle with mesothelioma, a form of cancer directly linked to asbestos exposure. Harding, who began his career in various manual roles, including agriculture and bricklaying, later established his own construction business in the 1990s before retiring in 2008.

His work during the 1960s and 70s at the Esso refinery exposed him to asbestos, where he worked on pipes insulated with the harmful material. Colleagues recall the unavoidable and pervasive dust in the work environment, which clung to clothing and created a hazardous atmosphere.

Harding’s health issues began with breathlessness in the summer of 2022, initially misdiagnosed as an infection. However, a biopsy in 2023 confirmed the presence of mesothelioma, leading to his death on June 27, 2023.

The Harding family shared their distress over Kenneth’s illness, which lay dormant for decades before claiming his life. They highlighted his determination to fight cancer and a heart condition, emphasising the impact of the disease which gave him “no chance to fight it.” The delayed communication of biopsy results, not disclosed until two months before his passing, added to the family’s grief.

Harding’s legacy includes the construction of several significant locations in Milford Haven, such as the Mount Estate, a testament to his enduring influence on the town’s landscape. His children fondly recall his stories of the places he helped build, marking milestones in their lives and the community.

Assistant Pembrokeshire Coroner Mark Layton offered sincere condolences to the Harding family, confirming that Kenneth’s prolonged asbestos exposure during his employment was the direct cause of his mesothelioma and subsequent death.

This case serves as a sombre reminder of the latent dangers associated with asbestos exposure, particularly for those in the construction industry, and highlights the importance of occupational health and safety measures to prevent future tragedies.

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

2 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

2 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

2 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.