The Ministry of Defence has announced the commencement of “Exercise Iron Storm,” a significant military training operation taking place at Castlemartin Range over the next two weeks. The exercise, which runs from 24th June until 5th July, aims to enhance the operational readiness of the UK’s armed forces.
This critical exercise will enable troops to be trained for any future operational requirements, both within the UK and overseas. The Ministry of Defence emphasizes the importance of this exercise in maintaining the nation’s defense capabilities.
Residents near Castlemartin Range are advised that live firing will occur from Monday to Friday. The firing schedule is set to start at approximately 09:00 hrs and conclude at 18:00 hrs. However, on Monday, 24th June, and Tuesday, 25th June, night firing will extend until 03:00 hrs. Although these times mark the earliest and latest possible firing hours, not all days will adhere strictly to this schedule.

In addition to live fire exercises, military vehicles will be active over the weekends, further contributing to the comprehensive training agenda. The Ministry of Defence has also planned a public briefing prior to the exercise, scheduled for 18:30 hrs on 13th June at Castlemartin Camp (SA71 5EB). A post-exercise briefing will be held on 10th July at 18:30 hrs. Pre-booking is not required for either event.

• Exercise Duration: 24th June – 5th July
• Daily Firing Times: 09:00 hrs – 18:00 hrs
• Night Firing: 24th & 25th June until 03:00 hrs
• Post-Exercise Briefing: 10th July at 18:30 hrs
  

The Ministry of Defence says it appreciates the local community’s continued support and understanding during “Exercise Iron Storm.” This exercise is a vital part of ensuring that the UK’s armed forces remain highly trained and ready to respond to any threats.

ON SUNDAY (JUN 23), HM Coastguard Fishguard responded to an emergency at the Abereiddy Blue Lagoon. The incident, which occurred at approximately 16:28, involved a casualty who had sustained a lower back injury while coasteering.

The individual was brought ashore on a paddle board and located on the beach, where HM Coastguard – St Davids was already in attendance. Coastguards assessed the casualty’s injuries and transferred them onto a stretcher, subsequently carrying them from the beach to the car park.

The RNLI St Davids Lifeboat was also tasked with attending the scene, providing vital pain relief until the arrival of the Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust. Upon the ambulance’s arrival, the casualty was handed over for further treatment and transport to the hospital.

The prompt and coordinated response by the Coastguard teams and the RNLI ensured that the casualty received swift medical attention.

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.

Over £650 was raised, the RNLI said.

John Williams, Lifeboat Operations Manager for St Davids RNLI lifeboat, added: “On behalf of St Davids Lifeboat station, I just wanted to extend our warmest gratitude to each and every one of you who joined us for our station open day. Your presence and interaction with our stations team made the event a truly special occasion!

“A big shout-out to our dedicated fundraisers, volunteers and crew who generously gave their time to showcase our station to the public. Special thanks to all those who baked and donated cakes for the event, their delicious contributions were a massive success! Without your unwavering support and the donations you made, we wouldn’t be able to continue our life-saving mission around our coastline.”