Community

Public transport issues could affect thousands of older people in Wales

Published

1 month ago

May 24, 2024

THOUSANDS of older people across Wales may find it difficult to get out and about and do the things they want to do this bank holiday weekend due to difficulties accessing public transport, according to the findings of a new poll undertaken by the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales.¹

A third of older people who responded to the Commissioner’s poll said they find it difficult to access public transport in their area, while the Commissioner’s findings also highlight that 1 in 5 people aged 70+, and nearly 1 in 4 older people living with health issues or disabilities, are now using their bus pass less compared to two years ago.

Reasons shared by older people as to why they were using public transport less frequently included fewer buses, unreliable or delayed services, changes to routes or the location of bus stops and difficulties finding information about routes or timetables.

Older people using their bus pass less frequently told the Commissioner they had less freedom and independence, and found it more difficult to access appointments and services. They also said they had become more reliant on others, or had no option but to use a car or taxi rather than greener public transport options.

The Commissioner is concerned that any further cuts to bus services would make it even more difficult for older people to use public transport, leaving people unable to get out and about and do the things that matter to them, and at greater risk of loneliness and isolation.

She says that where changes to services are unavoidable, it is crucial that older people’s voices and experiences are used to guide decisions and shape future plans, and that community transport services should be supported to fill gaps in provision.

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Heléna Herklots CBE, said: “Transport plays a crucial role in supporting us to be independent and do the things that matter to us regardless of our age, whether it’s enjoying ourselves on a bank holiday or doing other things such as attending health appointments, caring for loved ones, volunteering, meeting up with family or friends, or going shopping on the high street.

“And as we get older, we may come to rely on public transport more often to do these things.”

“My poll findings suggest that a third of older people in Wales – nearly 300,000 people – find it difficult to access public transport in their communities, and that use of the concessionary bus pass has fallen over the past two years, particularly amongst people over the age of 70, and those living with long-term health conditions or disabilities.

“Without access to public transport, a growing number of older people will find themselves with less independence, less active and engaged with their communities, and at greater risk of loneliness and isolation.

“Many of the issues highlighted by older people that make it more difficult to use public transport – such as the distance of bus stops from key facilities such as GP surgeries – could be tackled through ensuring that older people are involved in planning and decision-making, so their voices can shape bus services in a meaningful way, particularly where changes to services cannot be avoided.

“It’s also crucial that in areas where public transport provision is lacking, community transport services are supported, via longer-term, more sustainable funding, to fill gaps and help ensure older people can get where they need to go.”

Community

Lifeboat station’s open day a community success!

Published

22 hours ago

June 22, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.”

Community

A maritime journey through history as The Waverley visits Pembrokeshire

Published

22 hours ago

June 22, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.

Community

Angle RNLI tasked to two simultaneous incidents

Published

1 day ago

June 22, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AT 4:27PM on Friday (Jun 21) the All-Weather Lifeboat was requested to launch following a VHF call from a 28ft vessel with a fouled propeller in the Longoar Bay/Butts Bay Area.

There were other vessels in the area safety boating a sailing race but due to the weather conditions they were unable to assist.

The lifeboat launched shortly after and began making best speed to the vessel but only minutes later the crew were requested to divert to another incident. The Coastguard had received a 999 call reporting a person cut off by the tide and possibly despondent near the old mining depot and the entrance to Castle Pill. With this, Tenby All-Weather Lifeboat was requested to assist with the initial incident and Milford Haven Port Authority patrol vessel Dynevor was also proceeding.

A local fishing vessel had made the call and was on scene attempting to communicate with the person. Soon after, the first informant lost sight of the person. Soon after, the lifeboat arrived on scene and after a brief discussion with the fisherman a search was commenced. The Y boat was deployed to head into Castle Pill to attempt to get a visual of the person if they had rejoined the path back to the main road.

At this point, Dale Coastguard Rescue team and the police were tasked to assist. Shortly after, the fisherman reported catching sight of the casualty through a gap in the hedge, making his was back up the road towards Black Bridge. Following this information, and with the first informant confident that this was the person he saw earlier the lifeboat was stood down to return to the previous incident.

After recovering the Y boat the lifeboat began making best speed back down towards Longoar Bay. Arriving on scene, and following a quick assessment it became clear that the casualty vessels anchor was potentially dragging. A tow was swiftly passed to the vessel and their anchor recovered.

With the tow set, the crew began towing the vessel back to Milford Marina.

Arriving off the entrance to the Milford Docks channel, the tow was dropped and the vessel transferred into an alongside tow and taken into the marina. After safely securing the vessel on the fuel pontoon, the lifeboat and her crew were stood down to return to station where she was readied for further service shortly after.