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RNLI lifeboats and helicopter save trawler in perilous Irish Sea operation

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RNLI lifeboats from St Davids, Fishguard, Newquay, and Kilmore Quay were launched in response to a distress Mayday call from a 24-metre Irish fishing vessel, reportedly taking on water in the Irish Sea on Friday, 8 March. The vessel, with five crew members aboard, was located approximately 21 nautical miles North West of Strumble Head when HM Coastguard mobilised the Welsh RNLI stations shortly before midday.

Responding with alacrity, the all-weather lifeboats and their volunteer crews hastened towards the imperilled trawler. They were joined by the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter R936 from Caernarfon, which arrived first at the scene. The helicopter crew executed a precise operation, lowering a water pump to the fishing vessel, thereby preventing any immediate danger to the crew, who fortunately, reported no casualties. Subsequently, the New Quay lifeboat was stood down while en route due to the stabilising situation.

The St Davids Tamar class lifeboat, Norah Wortley, reached the scene at 1.10pm amid rough sea conditions, buffeted by a force five to seven Easterly wind. It was closely followed by the RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat, Trent class lifeboat Blue Peter VII, which arrived at 1.35pm. With the engine of the trawler intact and the water level onboard significantly reduced by the Coastguard’s pump, a decision was made to escort the vessel 35 nautical miles West to Ireland for safety.

This escort mission saw Kilmore Quay RNLI Tamar class lifeboat Victor Freeman, tasked by the Irish Coast Guard, joining the operation at 2.10pm, at which point the Fishguard lifeboat returned to Wales. The St Davids lifeboat continued the escort for a further 20 nautical miles West South West towards Tuskar Rock until the Kilmore Quay lifeboat took over at 3:20pm. The lifeboats returned to their respective stations by the evening, with St Davids docking at 6.00pm and Kilmore Quay shortly thereafter at 6.10pm.

Will Chant, RNLI Coxswain for St Davids RNLI lifeboat, praised the swift and efficient response of all the crews involved. “This rescue was a good, fast response from all crews, which with an incident of this nature was exactly what was required,” he remarked. The situation aboard the trawler was effectively managed with the deployment of a salvage pump from the helicopter, leading to a successful and straightforward mission to escort the vessel to safety. The crew even received ‘welcome to Ireland’ messages on their mobile phones, highlighting the considerable distance covered during the operation.

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

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SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

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Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

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ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

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Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

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ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.

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