News

Newgale pub fire: Cause undetermined, but ruled accidental

Published

2 years 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.

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

5 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

6 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

6 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.