Business

Stephen Crabb leads inquiry on retaining community bank services

Published

2 years ago

March 28, 2024

PRESELI Pembrokeshire MP, and Chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee Stephen Crabb is leading an inquiry in Parliament that will investigate the closure of high street banks in Wales, as well as access to cash.

In November 2023, Pembrokeshire saw the closure of Lloyds Bank in St Davids, and in the coming months both Barclays Bank and Halifax in Haverfordwest are set to close. In recent years, Wales has experienced a rapid decline in the number of high street banking services available to the public. Already in 2024, 23 high street bank closures have been announced in Wales, while automated teller machines (ATMs) declined by nearly a quarter between 2018 and 2023.

The Committee willconsider how declining high street banking services are impacting vulnerable people and small businesses across Wales, who are often more reliant on cash than digital banking. It will also examine how Wales is being affected by the loss of high street bank services, and whether the problem is worse in Wales than other parts of the UK.

Mr Crabb is a staunch advocate for retaining community banking facilities, especially in rural communities like Pembrokeshire where many local branches remain the only source of face-to-face banking provision for miles.

Recently Mr Crabb challenged Barclays Bank senior management on their decision to close the bank branch in Haverfordwest– a move that will see Barclays not only pull out of the county town, but means they won’t have a branch left anywhere in Pembrokeshire. He has also engaged with LINK – the UK’s largest cash machine network – and continues to campaign on the basis that a Banking Hub is established and that ATM machines should be retained or installed, especially in areas worst affected by the closures.

Following the launch of the inquiry, MP Crabb added: “It is really sad to see so many banks across Wales closing as online banking grows in popularity. Despite the advantages of online banking, for a rural community with an ageing population like Pembrokeshire, bank branches hold huge importance as they offer face-to-face customer service.”

“I am acutely aware of the inconvenience that the bank closures locally have already caused following hundreds of replies from constituents to my ‘online banking survey’ ”

“I am looking forward to gathering further evidence on this subject through the committee’s inquiry, and will continue to put pressure on the relevant stakeholders to ensure that adequate alternative provisions are made through the establishment of banking hubs as well as the instalment of ATM machines where necessary.”

“In this inquiry, we are particularly keen to hear from those likely to be directly affected by the shift away from cash and physical banks. I encourage anyone with first-hand experience of losing banking services to give evidence to the Committee”

Business

Twr y Felin Hotel unveils new bespoke couple’s spa

Published

1 hour ago

November 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

TWR Y FELIN Felin Hotel, Wales’ first contemporary art hotel, has announced the opening of its new bespoke couple’s spa – an exclusive sanctuary designed to restore balance, renew the senses, and bring calming wellbeing to both body and mind.

The new private spa space combines modern wellness design with gentle natural elements, offering a serene environment for couples or small groups seeking deep relaxation. Centred on the therapeutic power of water, the spa provides a cocoon of tranquillity and indulgence just moments from the heart of St Davids.

Guests can unwind in the deep whirlpool bath, enjoy the circulation-boosting benefits of the infrared sauna, or cleanse and detoxify in the steam shower. The space also includes heated loungers and a private terrace, complemented by soft lighting and soothing music – creating an ideal backdrop for an hour or more of restorative escape.

One-hour spa sessions

Perfect for guests seeking a shorter break from the everyday, the spa offers one-hour sessions:

Monday – Thursday: £50 per person
Friday – Sunday: £60 per person

One-hour sessions can be booked online. Longer visits can be arranged directly with the hotel and are subject to availability.

Guests can also extend their wellness journey with a wide menu of treatments, including aromatherapy massage, therapeutic body massage, Indian head massage, body exfoliation rituals, and Twr y Felin’s signature Encapsulate treatment.

“Our vision was to create a space where guests can slow down, breathe, and indulge in a restorative experience that leaves them feeling renewed,” said Emma Bowen, General Manager. “The spa complements our philosophy of creating exceptional experiences inspired by art, culture, and the surrounding Pembrokeshire landscape.”

Booking information

The spa is open daily, with one-hour sessions available to book online. Packages and extended stays must be booked directly with the hotel’s reception team. Please note that the spa is an adults-only environment and is not suitable for pregnant guests.

For information, bookings, and full terms and conditions, visit:
https://twryfelinhotel.com/treatments/

About Twr y Felin Hotel

Located in Britain’s smallest city, St Davids, Twr y Felin Hotel is Wales’ first contemporary art hotel. The award-winning retreat offers luxurious accommodation, fine dining at Blas Restaurant, and a unique collection of specially commissioned artworks inspired by the dramatic Pembrokeshire coast.

Business

Haverfordwest opticians shortlisted for honours at Optometry Wales Awards

Published

4 hours ago

November 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A HAVERFORDWEST opticians has been recognised as one of Wales’ leading optical practices after being shortlisted for eight awards at the Optometry Wales Awards 2025.

Specsavers Haverfordwest, which is locally owned and run, is a finalist across categories including Multiple Practice of the Year, Technology Practice of the Year and Collaborative Working. These nominations reflect its commitment to delivering outstanding service, patient experience and innovation.

The store has also been shortlisted for Sustainability Practice of the Year, following its gold award in the Greener Primary Care Wales Framework and Award Scheme last year, which recognised its dedication to reducing its environmental impact.

‘We’re thrilled to be recognised in so many categories this year,’ says Wayne Jones, retail director at Specsavers Haverfordwest.

‘It’s a testament to the hard work of our entire team and the care we deliver every day to people across Pembrokeshire. Being finalists in eight different categories really shows the breadth of our expertise – from clinical leadership to customer service – and we’re very proud of what we’ve achieved together.’

Several of the store’s employees have also been individually shortlisted:

Andy Britton, specialist optometrist and ophthalmic director – Optometrist of the Year
Chris Rosser, optical assistant – Optical Assistant of the Year
Samantha Houghton, contact lens optician – Contact Lens Optician of the Year
Alex O’Brien, dispensing technician – Rising Star

In 2023, director Andy Britton was awarded a medal by Specsavers founders Doug and Mary Perkins in recognition of his clinical excellence.

Mr Britton says: ‘It’s fantastic to be shortlisted for Optometrist of the Year, but what makes me most proud is seeing so many of my colleagues recognised too. This is a reflection of the dedication, innovation and care shown across our whole team.’

The winners will be announced at the Optometry Wales Awards ceremony in Cardiff on 29 November.

Specsavers Haverfordwest is open seven days a week. To find out more information about Specsavers in Haverfordwest, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.

Additionally, to make eye health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.

Business

Festive fun as Milford Haven Christmas market returns to the waterfront

Published

1 day ago

November 16, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Traders, lights and family entertainment to kick off Pembrokeshire’s Christmas season

THE FESTIVE spirit is coming to life in Milford Haven with markets, lights and family fun as the town gears up for a packed Christmas programme along the waterfront.

Milford Waterfront is preparing for a busy season of events, starting with an indoor Christmas market in the Link Building from November 21 to 23, featuring handcrafted local gifts and festive treats.

Lucy Wonnacott, head of communications and marketing at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Every year the berth holder community, Milford Waterfront businesses and residents all get involved in making the whole place sparkle, so we encourage people to come and see their efforts and enjoy the lights, soak up the festive cheer, and visit the amazing businesses around Milford Waterfront.

“We’re delighted to host so many activities this festive season to support the independent business community here. There will definitely be something for everyone, and new to Milford Waterfront this year, the indoor Ice Rink at Sybil House will be very special – we’re looking forward to seeing everyone getting their skates on.”

The festive programme includes Santa by the Sea on December 6, when Father Christmas will arrive by RNLI lifeboat before heading to Milford Haven Town Hall for the town’s official Christmas lights switch-on.

The event, running from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, will feature live music, entertainment, face-painting and family activities.

Young artists aged three to twelve can take part in print-your-own Christmas card workshops at the Waterfront Gallery on November 22, 29 and 30. The sessions are free but must be booked in advance by calling 07949 763100.

From December 12 to 14, visitors can enjoy an indoor ice-skating experience at Sybil House, next to Phoenix Bowl. The synthetic rink will be open from 12:00pm to 8:00pm and is suitable for all ages.

The festive fun continues with Pure West Radio’s Purely Magical Christmas Grotto in the Link Building on December 7, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21. Tickets must be booked in advance and include a visit with Santa and his elves, professional photography, chocolate gifts and more.

Throughout December, the waterfront will be illuminated by the annual Christmas Lights Competition, organised by Milford Waterfront, Milford Marina and Visit Milford Haven. The contest features decorated shopfronts, balconies and boats, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere across the area.

Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the season by staying overnight at the Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, overlooking the marina, to enjoy the full Christmas experience.

More information about this year’s programme of events is available on the Milford Waterfront website.