Community

Welsh neighbours band together to rescue Gaza families

Published

2 years ago

March 3, 2024

A GROUP of parents from North Pembrokeshire, have taken it upon themselves to provide aid to families in Gaza, offering a beacon of hope amidst the ongoing crisis.

The community initiative, known as “Cwtch Pals,” aims to secure safe havens for families, particularly those with young children who have been caught in the relentless conflict that has stripped them of their homes, food security, and safety.

The grassroots effort is driven by a deep empathy towards the children in Gaza, with one parent reflecting, “We see our children’s faces in theirs.” The group’s motivation is rooted in a historical consciousness, drawing parallels to the Kindertransport efforts during the Holocaust, where Jewish children were saved by individuals in a similar act of humanitarianism. “It’s the least we can do,” said a mother, whose father was a Holocaust survivor, emphasising the significance of passing on the legacy of kindness and rescue.

The connection between the Welsh group and the families in Gaza is deeply personal, with relationships built over years through platforms like Amnesty International and direct educational engagement. Lara, a member of the initiative, shared her touching story of teaching one of the now-adult children in Gaza, who has since become a wounded reporter. The group is currently focusing on raising £7,000 to complete the evacuation of this family, among others, to safety.

Families that have already received assistance are finding temporary refuge in Egypt, with some members still unable to leave Gaza due to their indispensable roles in the community, such as a doctor who remains to attend to the urgent medical needs despite his family’s worries for his safety.

Cwtch Pals has its origins in Croeso Teifi, a charity response to the Syrian crisis, and benefits from the Community Sponsorship scheme in the UK, a testament to the effective integration of refugees through community-managed schemes. This initiative not only supports the immediate needs of the displaced but also ensures their long-term integration by providing access to education and employment opportunities in Wales.

Despite the dire situation and the UK government’s hesitance to open its arms to Palestinians, the group remains steadfast in its commitment to fill this gap through local action. The initiative is a poignant reminder of the universal values of democracy and humanity, as echoed by a grateful mother in Gaza, who, despite her circumstances, recognises and appreciates the efforts of the Welsh parents. Her words underscore the impact of the initiative, promising to share their stories of kindness and determination with future generations.

The group’s actions are a powerful example of how community solidarity can transcend borders, offering a glimmer of hope and a path to recovery for those in dire need.

For those looking to support or join the effort, Cwtch Pals can be contacted through Facebook or their dedicated email, emphasising the collective power of small communities to make a significant difference in the lives of others across the globe.

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

17 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

18 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush

A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.

The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.

Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.

He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”

Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.

The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.

Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.

Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).