Community

Neglected Pembrokeshire poodles find their forever homes

Published

11 months ago

March 22, 2024

THIRTY poodle type dogs were in total rescued after they were found in an unsuitable environment where their owner also failed to provide grooming and vet care. Twenty-three dogs were signed over to the RSPCA and permission was given by the owner for the remaining seven dogs to be removed and boarded.

They were subsequently taken into RSPCA care and following a veterinary check were transferred to RSPCA centres, RSPCA branches, and five young male and one female poodles went to Greenacres Animal Rescue.

Many of the poodles have been happily rehomed, and following the conclusion of the court case the remaining seven dogs have been signed over to the RSPCA, meaning they can now be rehomed too.

RSPCA Llys Nini Branch had six of the poodles that can now be rehomed. They have been in foster homes and happily many of them are set to become their official owners.

Now named Bryn (pictured above following rescue) – one of the poodles is going to be adopted by his foster carer Helen.

“He has fitted in so well to our family that we all agree we should adopt him,” said Helen Morgan, who is from Gorseinon, Swansea.

“He is 10 years old and has only two teeth left but that doesn’t stop him eating! He is almost completely deaf, but the sweetest boy you could ever imagine.

“He loves his walks, he’s food oriented and will sit under the table when we are eating in case something falls on the floor! He loves fuss and is my shadow, he wants nothing more than a comfy spot on the sofa next to one of us and he especially loves a cuddle with our cat!”

Helen said Bryn has been a wonderful addition to their family and has helped her in so many ways.

“I have been diagnosed with arthritis and fibromyalgia and was feeling very down. Fostering seemed like a good idea, and this dog has given me a purpose to get up in the morning, so even though you saved him, in his own way he has really saved me.”

Purdy is going to be adopted by Natalie who lives in the Rhondda Valleys.

Natalie Williams, who has been fostering Purdy, said sadly Purdy was one of the poodles that needed all her teeth removed.

“She has settled in so well,” she said. “She was a little overwhelmed and nervous at the start and didn’t like being touched much but now she jumps up for cuddles and takes over the sofa.

“She loves walks and can go for miles. She has another poodle brother called Lucky who is a rescue from South Korea and she loves to sleep next to him.”

While Maddie has been fostered by Hadeel Dart from Loughor, Swansea, who lives with her husband Rhys, daughter Nia and their other dog Lily.

“It took some time for Maddie to settle in and she was quite nervous and cautious when she first came to live with us,” said Hadeel, who is looking to become Maddie’s official owner.

“I feel that she has become more relaxed around us now and one of the nicest moments I’ve had since fostering Maddie, has been seeing her tail wag for the first time as she welcomed me home.

“Maddie is very curious and will follow us around the house to see what we are up to at all times. She also gets very excited and is full of energy when it’s time for a walk. She will literally bounce up and down when she sees us getting her harness out!

“Maddie is a very affectionate, sweet dog and as soon as one of us sits down, she will come and lie next to us for a nap. It’s been a pleasure having Maddie stay with us.”

The family is now also looking to officially adopt Maddie.

All thirty poodles have been rehomed or are with other rescue charities and RSPCA branches.

RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben said: “It is lovely to see these wonderful pictures of Bryn, Purdy and Maddie who are now living their best lives in their forever homes.

“We’d very much like to thank these dedicated foster carers for their support and it is lovely that these dogs are now going to be adopted officially.”

This year the RSPCA celebrates its 200th year of changing industries, laws, minds, and animals’ lives. To mark this anniversary the animal welfare charity wants to inspire one million people to join their movement to improve animals’ lives. Together, there are actions, big and small, everyone can take to create a better world for every animal.

Community

RWE launches hydrogen education programme to inspire future climate champions

Published

1 day ago

January 29, 2025

Tom Sinclair

RWE has launched its Hydrogen Education Programme, an initiative aimed at educating schoolchildren about hydrogen’s crucial role in achieving net zero and decarbonising industries.

Developed in partnership with Generation C, the programme offers interactive, curriculum-based activities that connect classroom learning to real-world applications. Students of all ages will explore hydrogen’s properties, its production, and its growing role in industries driving the clean energy transition.

Henry Tudor High School in Pembroke has already piloted the programme with secondary school students, while Golden Grove Primary School is set to begin this week. The initiative will demonstrate how hydrogen, as a clean energy source, is integral to reducing emissions in transport, manufacturing, and energy sectors.

Engaging young minds

The programme features real-world case studies highlighting RWE’s hydrogen projects and includes group challenges designed to encourage critical thinking about global climate issues.

Golden Grove Primary School headteacher, Mr A Williams, welcomed the initiative, stating: “As head of a large primary school in Pembrokeshire, which is at the forefront of green energy growth, it is imperative that we build meaningful relationships with companies like RWE. The initial lesson captivated our learners, who now fully understand the importance of green energy and the new hydrogen plant. The flexibility of the New Welsh Curriculum allows us to tailor learning to our community’s needs—building an electrolyser to produce hydrogen is just the beginning of a journey that could lead to future opportunities in collaboration with businesses.”

Williams also highlighted the programme’s potential to shape future career paths, saying: “This project could provide highly skilled jobs in our county, and we need our learners to be at the forefront of that development.”

Building a sustainable future

Louise McDonnell, RWE’s hydrogen development manager, attended the event and emphasised the programme’s impact: “Our Hydrogen Education Programme equips young people with the knowledge and inspiration to make a difference. Hydrogen is a game-changer in the fight against climate change, and through this initiative, we’re helping students see the opportunities in clean energy. Education is key to building the skills and passion needed to achieve net zero and safeguard our planet.”

RWE’s Hydrogen Education Programme is more than just an awareness initiative—it aims to inspire careers in clean energy. By sparking curiosity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the programme encourages students to explore future roles in the expanding hydrogen economy and renewable energy sector.

Hydrogen’s role in decarbonisation

RWE recently secured planning permission for the RWE Pembroke Green Hydrogen Project, a 100MWe electrolysis plant capable of producing approximately two metric tonnes of green hydrogen per hour. By replacing fossil fuels, the plant is expected to cut local CO2 emissions by about 93,000 tonnes annually, the equivalent of removing 18,600 cars from the road.

As the UK’s largest power producer and a leading renewable generator, RWE continues to develop hydrogen opportunities nationwide to support industrial decarbonisation and drive the transition to a cleaner energy future.

Community

New Men’s Shed opens at Milford Haven Station

Published

2 days ago

January 29, 2025

Tom Sinclair

TRANSPORT for Wales (TfW) has announced the opening of a new Men’s Shed at Milford Haven Station, transforming one of its stations into a valuable community hub.

Men’s Sheds are community spaces where people come together to make, repair, and repurpose items while supporting local projects. These grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in tackling social isolation and fostering a sense of community.

Research shows that Sheds offer significant health benefits, with 96% of members—known as Shedders—reporting a reduction in loneliness after joining. While traditionally associated with older men, Men’s Sheds are inclusive, welcoming people of all genders and backgrounds. Many involve women, and some operate exclusively for women.

The new Milford Haven Men’s Shed will provide a space for the community to connect, share skills, and form friendships. Shedders will have the freedom to decide how best to use the space to meet their needs.

Emma Collins, Station Manager for Milford Haven, said: “I am pleased that we are able to accommodate the Men’s Shed within the station and support this invaluable community group and the work they do.”

The Milford Haven Men’s Shed committee expressed gratitude to TfW for enabling the project, calling it a safe and welcoming space for older members of the community to build friendships and support well-being.

A spokesperson for the Shed said: “We hope to give back to the community some of the help we have received from TfW. We would also like to thank the National Lottery for the funding that made this project possible.”

They added: “Whether it’s crafting, working on projects, or simply dropping in for a cuppa and a chat, the Men’s Shed is here for the people of the town. We look forward to welcoming everyone.”

Community

Drop in sessions to help reshape Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service

Published

7 days ago

January 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is pleased to announce the launch of a series of community drop-in sessions designed to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. This initiative aims to identify issues and challenges that may impact the delivery of the Community Risk Management Plan 2040 (CRMP 2040).

The CRMP 2040 outlines the Service’s commitment to addressing risks, threats, and challenges faced by communities. These drop-in sessions provide an opportunity for residents to help shape the future of fire and rescue services in Mid and West Wales, ensuring safety and well-being remain a priority.

Shaping the future together

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Iwan Cray said: “We believe the best way to serve our communities is by involving them in the planning process. These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and collaborate with the people we serve.”

The drop-in sessions, details of which are available on the MAWWFRS website, offer a platform for open dialogue. Residents can share their insights, concerns, and suggestions, contributing to the development of a modern Fire and Rescue Service tailored to their needs.

A data-driven approach

The CRMP 2040 adopts a data-driven approach, focusing on prevention, protection, and response to reduce emergencies’ impact and enhance public safety. By tailoring services to community needs, MAWWFRS is committed to building safer and more resilient communities.

Get involved

Community members are encouraged to attend these sessions and provide their feedback. To thank participants, MAWWFRS is offering a chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher. To enter, simply attend a session and complete the survey.

For more information about the plan or the upcoming drop-in sessions, visit the MAWWFRS website or contact the team at [email protected].

About MAWWFRS

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is dedicated to protecting and serving the communities of Mid and West Wales. Through prevention, protection, and response, the Service works tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.