News

Pembrokeshire builder died from asbestos-related disease, inquest finds

Published

1 year 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

Haverfordwest Carnival to make a comeback after six-year hiatus

Published

13 minutes ago

April 28, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE MUCH-LOVED Haverfordwest Carnival, which has been absent from the local summer calendar for six years, is set to return in 2025. The event, which last took place in 2019 before the pandemic caused large gatherings to be cancelled, is eagerly anticipated by locals who are hopeful for a vibrant revival.

The carnival, known for its bright floats, marching bands, and community spirit, will once again fill the streets of the county town next year. It is being organized by Pure West Radio in partnership with Haverfordwest Town Council, and they are now reaching out to the public for input on key details, including the theme, preferred date, and ways to support the event.

Pure West Radio shared the exciting news on social media, announcing, “After six years, Haverfordwest Carnival is back for 2025! We’re partnering with Haverfordwest Town Council to bring back this iconic event, and we want to hear from you. What theme would you like to see? What day works best for you? And how would you like to get involved? Share your thoughts with us here.”

The announcement has been met with excitement from the community. Emma Flan reminisced, “The carnival was always the highlight of the summer when I was growing up. The town would be buzzing, with everyone out enjoying the day and night. So happy to see it returning, and I hope everyone gets involved.”

Others, like Michelle Dukes, agreed, saying, “It’s great news – the town really needs an event like this,” while Lucy Lulu Eagles fondly recalled, “I loved the carnival! I’d always look forward to the band playing and seeing the floats with the kids.”

One memorable edition of the carnival took place in 2006, when it was held at the Picton Playing Fields, featuring a Queen tribute act and a junior talent show. The 2018 carnival marked a major revival of the event after a few years’ absence, with a maritime theme celebrating the ‘Year of the Sea.’ Despite the wet weather, the procession, which started from County Hall, drew a big crowd and made its way through the town to Bridge Meadow.

The 2019 carnival saw the event moved to a Sunday as a grand finale to Haverfordwest Festival Week, and the sunny weather ensured a wonderful day out for all involved.

While the weather remains unpredictable for 2025, local input is highly encouraged to help make the event one to remember. If you have ideas or feedback, you can share them via the survey linked above.

Community

Classic motorcycles roar into Haverfordwest this weekend

Published

4 hours ago

April 27, 2025

Tom Sinclair

CLASSIC bike enthusiasts are gearing up for a spectacular event at Haverhub this Saturday (May 3), as the Pembrokeshire Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Club hosts its eleventh annual Classic Bike Show.

The event, which runs from 10:00am to 4:00pm, is free to attend and promises a stunning display of 55 classic motorcycles, spanning from the 1920s through to the 1990s.

The show supports a range of worthy causes, including Milford Haven Sea Cadets, VC Gallery, Blood Bikes Wales, the Welsh Air Ambulance, road safety initiatives, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Liver Transplant Centre – which serves patients across Wales – and Haverhub itself.

Crowd favourite Becket “The Bullet” Thomas will be providing live entertainment during the afternoon, adding to the festival atmosphere.

Although entry is free, organisers are encouraging visitors to make donations to the supported charities, all of which provide vital services both locally and nationally.

A spokesperson for the club said: “We are really excited to showcase these wonderful machines and to support so many good causes at the same time. It’s a great day out for all ages.”

The event takes place at Haverhub, Quay Street, Haverfordwest. All classic bikes are welcome.

For more information or to register a bike, contact Glyn on 07795 485724 or email [email protected].

Community

Milford Haven pays tribute on ANZAC Day

Published

12 hours ago

April 27, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A COMMEMORATION service was held on Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven, on Sunday (Apr 27) to mark ANZAC Day and to honour those who fell in all conflicts, especially at Gallipoli and Normandy.

The event also paid tribute to the crew of the Wellington bomber that crashed near the site during the Second World War.

A strong turnout gathered for the moving service, with local groups including the Sea Cadets, Royal British Legion, and military representatives in attendance. Milford Haven’s Mayor, Councillor William Elliott, laid a wreath on behalf of the town.

The service, organised by the Royal British Legion Club – Milford Haven, served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the ANZAC forces and others over the years.

A spokesperson for Milford Haven Town Council said: “A lovely turnout for the ANZAC Day memorial service. We will remember them!”

ANZAC Day is observed annually in Australia and New Zealand, and across the world, to commemorate the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who fought at Gallipoli during the First World War, as well as those who served and died in all wars and conflicts.

(Images: MHTC)