Community

Public outcry over closed rides at Oakwood Theme Park

Published

2 days ago

June 28, 2024

LOCAL residents and visitors are up in arms after discovering that several key attractions at Oakwood Theme Park were closed during a recent visit, despite the park charging full admission prices. James Peniket, a visitor, sparked the debate with a Facebook post expressing his frustration over the situation, which quickly garnered numerous supportive comments from others who had similar experiences.

Mr Peniket’s post stated, “How can you charge full price when at least 5 of your main rides are closed? You only had a notice on your website for one of the rides being closed… £45 for a 13-year-old child to go and see a theme park full of closed rides… absolute shambles of a place… Robbing the public of money!”

The reaction was swift, with many people sharing their own stories and grievances about the park. Andrew Graham Feetham echoed the sentiment, calling the situation “unsafe” and the supervision “horrendous.” He added, “£20, fair enough, but £45 for half a theme park is robbery.”

Darren Briggs, a former employee of the park, reminisced about its glory days in the late 1980s. “Back in the day, we would regularly see attendance figures over 12k people a day. Yesterday was probably less than 3k. Very sad. Staff looked totally unhappy and disengaged,” he commented, highlighting the park’s decline and lack of investment.

The closure of multiple rides without prior warning was a common complaint. Alanda Williams and Andrew Morse also joined the conversation, suggesting alternative attractions such as Hangar 5, where all trampolines are open and operational. Joshua J Peniket quipped, “Should have gone to Hangar 5 then. All trampolines are open,” reflecting the public’s disillusionment with Oakwood.

The underlying issue appears to be a lack of transparency and investment. Several commenters, including George Coles, pointed out that the theme park had been sold to new owners, Aspro-Ocio S.A., a Spanish company known for operating water parks. Despite this change in ownership, there has been no noticeable improvement in the park’s conditions.

Visitors like Wayne Scourfield, who had pre-booked tickets for their families, expressed their frustration and disappointment upon learning about the closed rides. “I’ve booked to bring family on Thursday… they’re so looking forward to it,” he lamented, highlighting the broader impact on families planning visits during the school holidays.

In response to the public outcry, Oakwood Theme Park has issued refunds to some visitors, including Mr Peniket, who confirmed receiving an email from the park regarding his refund. However, this measure seems to be a case of too little, too late for many disgruntled customers.

The recurring theme in the comments was a nostalgic longing for the park’s past and a call for significant investment to restore its former glory. As Louise Burgin reminisced, “It used to be amazing when we were kids. It was such a treat to go. You knew you’d spend all day having fun, and it was value for money.”

Oakwood Theme Park, once a beloved local attraction, now faces mounting pressure to address these issues and restore public trust. Without immediate and substantial improvements, the park risks losing its place as a cherished destination for families in Pembrokeshire and beyond.

Community

The Crymych Arms set to host Election Day special

Published

15 hours ago

June 30, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Election Day, the Crymych Arms Community Pub is inviting voters to enjoy a special menu inspired by political figures. After casting your vote on Thursday, drop by for a Voter’s Meal and Drink. The pub, owned by the community, is offering a £10 voucher for the best names of political-themed meals submitted on their Facebook page by noon on Wednesday (Jul 3).

Some imaginative entries already include “Sunak Soup of the Day,” “Farage Fish & Chips,” “Starmer Steak Roll,” “Ap Iorwerth Apple Pie and Custard,” and “Davey Danish Pastry Selection.”

Don’t forget your Voter ID when you head to the polls, and join Crymych Arms for a post-election meal. There’s even talk of an exit poll karaoke!

The pub, which the community purchased in October 2023 after a two-year closure, reopened in December 2023, now stands as the village’s sole pub. Experience the refurbished venue and its lively atmosphere. For pre-bookings, call 01239 831435.

Community

Wales Balloon Festival faces challenges amidst mixed reviews

Published

16 hours ago

June 30, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE WALES Balloon Festival at Carmarthen’s Nantyci Showground has faced a storm of criticism amid organisational challenges and weather-related disruptions. Running over three days, the event saw thousands flock to enjoy the spectacle, but many were met with frustration.

On Saturday (Jun 29), attendees reported gridlock, with some waiting over four hours to enter. Mark Matthews shared his ordeal: “Left Llanelli at 1:30 and finally got to the showground at 6:30. Missed all activities bar the balloons.” Similar issues were raised by others who found parking chaotic, with many unable to find spots despite prepaying.

Long queues to get into the Carmarthen Showground (Image: Richard Swingler)

Adding to the disappointment, the Night Glow show scheduled for Saturday was cancelled due to rain. Organisers apologised, emphasising that ballooning activities are weather-dependent. Jo Dean, however, expressed her frustration, noting, “It’s Wales. We get rain; this is not rain, it’s drizzle.”

Despite these setbacks, some attendees praised the vibrant atmosphere. Michelle Roberts described the day as “amazing,” with her children enjoying the tribute acts. GM Ev added, “We had a great time last night. Many people aren’t used to balloon events; they require specific conditions.”

High prices for food and rides also drew criticism. Nigel Owen commented on the lack of staff and inadequate health and safety measures, stating, “I don’t expect to help run your Park and Ride service.” Several attendees called for better planning and suggested alternative locations like Margam Park for future events.

As the festival enters its final day, there is hope for improved experiences. Attendees like Cara Thomas inquired about refunds, while others expressed optimism that logistical issues would be addressed in future editions.

The Wales Balloon Festival, despite its challenges, has provided memorable moments for many. Organisers face a crucial opportunity to learn from this year’s feedback, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable event in the future.

Community

Council issues Tenby summer pedestrianisation scheme reminder

Published

1 day ago

June 29, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL have issued a reminder today that the Tenby summer pedestrianisation scheme starts on Monday, July 1st to Friday, September 13th.
The Walled Town is pedestrianised and traffic movements restricted between 11am and 5.30pm each day.
The council said: “Drivers are kindly requested to plan their journeys in advance to keep the Walled Town a traffic free zone during these times.”