THE RNLI St Davids Lifeboat Station hosted a successful open day today, drawing in locals and visitors alike. The event featured full station tours and refreshments, with many enjoying a relaxing cuppa and cake along the picturesque coast path.

The station expressed heartfelt thanks to the community for their generous support. A special mention was made for the local bakers who donated an array of delicious cakes, which were sold to raise funds for the lifeboat station. The total amount raised will be announced shortly.

The open day was made possible by the dedicated volunteers, crew members, and fundraisers who selflessly give their time to the vital mission of saving lives at sea. Their unwavering commitment and hard work are truly commendable.

“We salute you,” the RNLI St Davids Lifeboat Station stated in their message of gratitude.

The event underscored the strong community spirit and the shared commitment to supporting the life-saving efforts of the RNLI.

JAKE Bowman-Davies, a 26-year-old fisherman from Lighthouse Drive, Llanstadwell, has been warned he could face imprisonment after admitting to strangling his partner’s mother.

Previously, Bowman-Davies appeared in court in January facing multiple violent charges.

The charges stemmed from an incident in Milford Haven on December 17, where he was accused of assaulting his partner and damaging her mobile phone.

Additionally, he faced accusations of strangling his partner’s mother and assaulting her father on the same day. Bowman-Davies had denied all these charges initially.

After being granted bail, Bowman-Davies breached its conditions and was subsequently remanded in custody. On June 20, he returned to Swansea Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to the offence of strangulation.

Prosecutor Georgia Donohue stated that the guilty plea was acceptable and requested that the remaining charges be filed without further action.

Bowman-Davies is now scheduled to return to court for sentencing next month.

Judge Wayne Beard ordered a pre-sentence report to be prepared and remanded Bowman-Davies back into custody. He warned the defendant, “All options will be open to the judge that passes sentence.”

Bowman-Davies’ admission and the gravity of the offence have left him facing the possibility of a significant custodial sentence.

The court awaits the final decision in July.

PEMBROKESHIRE residents and visitors alike are in for a treat this weekend as the historic paddle steamer, the Waverley, graces our coastal waters. Known as the world’s last sea-going passenger-carrying paddle steamer, the Waverley offers a unique blend of history and scenic beauty on its scheduled excursions.

Built in 1946, the Waverley was named after Sir Walter Scott’s first novel. The vessel was constructed by A. & J. Inglis of Glasgow and initially operated on the Firth of Clyde. After a distinguished career, it was retired in 1973 but was saved from the scrapyard by the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) for the nominal fee of £1. Since then, the Waverley has been meticulously restored to its original 1947 appearance, allowing passengers to experience a piece of living maritime history.

The Waverley’s current itinerary includes a series of cruises highlighting the stunning Welsh coast. On Saturday, June 22, the steamer will embarked on a journey from Swansea, covering the Gower Peninsula, Caldey Island, and the Pembrokeshire coast before circling Skokholm Island. Departing at 08:45, the cruise was an unforgettable day at sea, concluding at Milford Haven by 16:15.

For those who prefer an evening adventure, a special evening cruise departed Milford Haven at 18:00, offering views of the River Cleddau, passing under the Cleddau Bridge and exploring St Ann’s Head before docking back at Milford Haven at 21:00.

On Sunday, June 23, the Pembrokeshire Islands Explorer Cruise sets sail from Milford Haven at 11:15. This voyage will take passengers around Skokholm, Skomer, St Brides Bay, and Ramsey Island, with an expected return to Milford Haven at 16:30.

The Waverley’s operations are more than just pleasure cruises; they represent a vital effort to preserve maritime heritage. The ship is powered by its original three-crank diagonal triple-expansion marine steam engine, a marvel for passengers who can view the workings from passageways on either side of the engine room. The Waverley also boasts a unique educational initiative known as the Waverley Academy, which offers hands-on experience and training in maritime skills, ensuring that the legacy of traditional marine engineering continues.

The operation and maintenance of this historic vessel rely heavily on public support. Donations and proceeds from ticket sales are crucial to keeping the Waverley afloat. The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society continually seeks funding to support ongoing maintenance and educational programs, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this iconic piece of maritime history.

For those interested in joining this historic voyage, tickets can be purchased online, subject to availability.