News

Newgale pub fire: Cause undetermined, but ruled accidental

Published

7 months ago

April 11, 2024

THE MID and West Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has recently concluded its investigation into the fire that devastated the Duke of Edinburgh pub in Newgale, Pembrokeshire, with findings that leave the community without closure. Despite exhaustive efforts, the inquiry led by the MAWWFRS Business Fire Safety Team has been unable to determine a specific cause for the blaze that tore through the pub in the early hours of Tuesday, 16 January.

The investigation faced significant hurdles due to the level of destruction at the presumed point of origin, complicating efforts to identify a clear cause. As a result, the incident has been officially classified as “accidental undetermined”. A spokesperson for the fire service articulated the challenge faced by investigators: “The outcome of the fire investigation was inconclusive due to the extent of damage in the area of the building where the fire most likely first started. There were no suspicious circumstances so it will be recorded as accidental undetermined.”

This statement underscores the profound impact of the fire, which not only destroyed a two-storey building housing a beloved ground floor pub and accommodation above but also left a mark on the local community. Firefighting teams from St Davids, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, and Fishguard had deployed extensive resources, including hose reel jets, main jets, a seven-metre ladder, and a thermal imaging camera, in a concerted effort over six hours to control the blaze. The operation also necessitated overnight road closures and police presence, although, no injuries were reported.

The inconclusive end to the investigation, despite confirming no suspicious circumstances, highlights the sometimes unpredictable nature of fire incidents and the challenges inherent in forensic examinations amidst significant destruction. For the residents of Pembrokeshire and the regulars of the Duke of Edinburgh pub, this outcome may not provide the closure they had hoped for but it does bring a degree of solace in knowing there was no foul play involved.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

4 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

18 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

18 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.