Charity
Communities in the west are some of the best – according to Ogi

WEST is definitely best, according to Ogi, Wales’s leading alternative broadband provider.
Since starting its ambitious full fibre broadband rollout back in 2021, Ogi has quickly built a strong reputation for investing in its communities. Recent research by the challenger Internet Service Provider (ISP) has shown that Pembrokeshire has received around £30m of its investment so far.
From Haverfordwest and Milford Haven to Johnston, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock, the provider can now serve over a third of the county – and soon to be planned, Tenby will increase coverage even further. With an economic impact worth around five times the investment made, Ogi’s ambitious rollout is keeping Pembrokeshire well and truly up to speed.
Community groups across the region have also benefited from thousands of pounds in grants and volunteering from the providers Cefnogi fund, supporting projects like Give the Boys a Lift, local businesses HaverHub – providing everything from defibrillators and first aid training and sports equipment.
Kicking off their presence in the west, Ogi secured stadium rights for Haverfordwest County AFC’s home with the infamous ground being renamed the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium in 2021. Supporting the team at all home games – and even drawing an Ogi crowd to the Cardiff City Stadium for the European qualifiers – the team remains an important fixture in the Ogi calendar.
Away from sports – and the internet – Ogi has brought art to Haverfordwest’s streets in partnership with Breakout Gallery; caught carnival fever in Milford Haven and celebrated Christmas in style witching on Neyland’s Christmas tree at the end of last year.
Now, with businesses like the Mariners Hotel able to access its services right to the doorstep, and customers able to buy from Get Connected stores, the challenger broadband brand is gearing up for its next phase in the west – surveying places in the south of the county.
Speaking about Ogi’s work in Pembrokeshire, Community Engagement Lead, Louise Clement, said: “The community team are lucky to work in some of the most beautiful places Wales has to offer. We say we put community at the heart of all we do here at Ogi – and that’s never been more true than in places like Pembrokeshire.
“From the creativity shown with the Breakout Gallery cabinets in Haverfordwest, to the important work supporting charities like 2Wish, PATCH and even a gunging or two with Pure West Radio for Comic Relief, I hope we’ve settled in well here in Pembrokeshire – and I’m excited for the next phase.”
Ogi’s community programme extends to volunteering opportunities and one-off grants and is open a few times a year for the likes of grassroots community groups, small charities and town councils to apply. For more information visit www.ogi.wales/cefnogi.
Charity
Fishing competition aims to raise £2,000 for lifeboat crews

A FISHING competition in Pembrokeshire hopes to net £2,000 to support lifeboat crews in Angle and Tenby.
The Angle and Tenby Lifeboat Fishing Competition is set to take place on Amroth Beach on Sunday, February 16, with all proceeds going to the RNLI teams that provide lifesaving services along the county’s coastline.
Former Pembroke Dock mayor Peter Kraus is leading the fundraising effort and is appealing for sponsors and raffle prize donations to help reach the target.
Mr Kraus said: “We are hoping to raise £1,000 for each of the lifeboat stations. With your help, that can be possible.
“I need kind sponsors willing to give £50, and I also need nice raffle prizes. This is such a good cause and a vital lifesaving service.”
Anyone wishing to support the event can contact Peter Kraus via email at [email protected] or call 07900 324287.
Charity
Princess of Wales becomes patron of Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice

THE PRINCESS OF WALES has been announced as the new Patron of Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, Wales’ first children’s hospice.
Tŷ Hafan, which translates to “Haven House” in English, provides free care and support for children with life-shortening conditions and their families, both within the hospice and in homes and communities across Wales. The charity offers essential assistance throughout a child’s life, including end-of-life care and bereavement support.
The Princess marked the announcement with a visit to Tŷ Hafan’s hospice in Sully, near Cardiff, where she met children, families, and staff.
A vital lifeline
At the heart of Tŷ Hafan’s work is a commitment to holistic care, addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the children and their families. The hospice fosters a strong sense of community, ensuring families do not feel alone in their experiences.
Irfon Rees, Chief Executive of Tŷ Hafan, said: “We are deeply honoured that Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales has become Patron of Tŷ Hafan, and it was an absolute pleasure to welcome Her Royal Highness to our hospice for the first time today.
“As our Patron, Her Royal Highness will be an inspiration for children with life-shortening conditions and their families, our dedicated staff and volunteers, and everyone who so generously supports us.
“No parent ever imagines that their child’s life will be short. Sadly, this is the reality facing thousands of families in Wales. We can’t stop this happening, but together we can make sure that no one lives their child’s short life alone.”
A longstanding commitment
The wellbeing of children and their families has long been a key focus for the Princess. One of her first patronages after joining the Royal Family was EACH (East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices), a role she continues to hold today. She now looks forward to developing a similar relationship with Tŷ Hafan and the families it supports in Wales.
Charity
Neyland Judo Club honours Barry Jones with 1st Dan award

NEYLAND Judo Club has celebrated one of its most dedicated members, Barry Jones, by awarding him his 1st Dan black belt in a surprise presentation on 30 January 2025.

Barry, known for his unwavering commitment to the club, is described as a “gentle giant” with an exceptional technical ability and a passion for judo that inspires those around him. His groundwork skills have earned him a reputation as a formidable judoka.

Club coach Damon praised Barry’s dedication, saying: “Barry is the epitome of a modern judoka. He is relentless, hungry to improve, and thirsty for knowledge. Whilst he continually gives his maximum effort in everything that he does, he can also be relied upon to help anyone around him, supporting the juniors and beginners and always wearing a smile. Barry’s courage and spirit make him a role model to everyone around him, and as a club, we are very proud to have him as a member.”


The award comes at a poignant time, as Barry was recently diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a progressive condition affecting the nervous system. Despite the challenges ahead, he remains determined to fight every step of the way, embodying the very spirit of judo.
The club expressed gratitude to all who attended and helped organise the surprise event, as well as to Rubies Photography for capturing the occasion.
Barry is currently fundraising for treatments and equipment to support himself and his family. Donations can be made at: https://gofund.me/8692f46f.
For more information on MND, visit: https://www.mndassociation.org
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