News

Pembrokeshire oil rig worker admits drink-driving on A40

Published

2 years ago

June 5, 2024

A PEMBROKESHIRE oil rig worker has appeared before magistrates after driving from Gatwick airport to his home in Pembrokeshire despite being over the drink-drive limit.

Stuart Owen, 46, had reached Robeston Wathen at around 11 pm on April 17 when he collided with an oncoming vehicle.

“Despite the collision, the defendant made off from the scene,” Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“Police were dispatched and they discovered the vehicle being driven by the defendant.”

Officers carried out a roadside breath test which proved positive and Owen was taken to a police custody suite where further breath tests showed he had 57 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

Owen pleaded guilty to the charge of drink-driving and was legally represented by solicitor Mr Regan Walters. Mr Walters informed the court that Owen’s alcohol consumption escalated to ‘an unmanageable’ level since leaving the armed forces, where he served for six years with postings in Bosnia, Iraq and Germany.

“As a result, he suffers from depression and takes alcohol to address it,” said Mr Walters, in mitigation.

“This has crept into his life and he recognises that when he begins to consume alcohol, he simply can’t control it. It’s become a hindrance, and has got to the point where it’s now unmanageable.”

Mr Walters said that on the day in question, Stuart Owen had flown from Aberdeen to Gatwick airport where he’d collected a hired car which he then proceeded to drive to his home in Gwili Road, Hakin.

“He bought some food, some soft drinks and some alcohol, but there’d been an on-going argument with his wife and this acted as a trigger. He decided to pull off the motorway, turn off the ignition and drink the alcohol before trying to sleep. But he failed [to sleep], and decided to drive home.”

Mr Walters went on to say that Owen was recently referred to the VC Gallery which assists army veterans who are suffering from post traumatic stress disorders. He also engages with Alcoholics Anonymous approximately four times a week.

“These sessions are helping him to understand why he turns to alcohol,” he said.

The court heard that in 2019 Owen re-trained as a production technician, working on off-shore oil rigs where he carries out checks on pumps, compressors and valves.

“This is a high pressure placement because if he makes an error, it would lead to whichever rig he’s working on being shut down,” said Mr Walters.

Owens’s employment results in him driving approximately 10,000 miles a year to various UK airports from where he catches helicopters that fly him to the oil rigs.

“He will now have to explore public transport,” added Mr Walters.

After considering the mitigation, magistrates fined Owen £923. He was ordered to pay a £369 court surcharge and £85 costs. He was disqualified from driving for 15 months.

Community

Three Amigos Easter Run roars through Pembrokeshire

Published

1 hour ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MOTORCYCLE enthusiasts turned out in force today (Saturday, March 28) as the popular Three Amigos Easter Run returned to the roads of Pembrokeshire.

The annual ride, now a firm favourite in the local biking calendar, saw a colourful convoy of motorbikes travel through towns and countryside, drawing crowds of spectators along the route.

Riders of all ages and backgrounds took part, with everything from classic machines to modern superbikes on display. Many participants embraced the Easter theme, with bikes decorated and riders donning festive outfits, adding to the atmosphere of the day.

The event is not only a celebration of the region’s strong motorcycling community but also an opportunity to bring people together, with families lining the streets to watch the procession pass through.

Organisers said the run once again highlighted the camaraderie among bikers and the support the event receives from local communities.

One rider said: “It’s a brilliant day every year. The turnout has been fantastic, and it’s great to see so many people out supporting us.”

The Three Amigos Easter Run has grown steadily in popularity, becoming a key date in the Easter weekend calendar and a showcase for Pembrokeshire’s vibrant biking scene.

With fine weather and strong attendance, this year’s event is expected to be remembered as one of the best yet.

Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald

Community

Classic car show returns to Carew airfield this summer

Published

2 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hundreds of vehicles, family attractions and local traders set for popular annual event

THE PEMBROKESHIRE CLASSIC CAR CLUB will once again bring a spectacular display of vintage motoring to Carew Airfield this summer, as its annual show returns on Saturday (June 6).

The much-anticipated event, running from 10:00am to 3:00pm, is expected to attract large crowds from across Pembrokeshire and beyond, with organisers promising a full day of entertainment for all ages.

Hundreds of classic cars will be on display, ranging from iconic British models to American classics, offering enthusiasts the chance to get up close to some of the finest vehicles on the road.

Alongside the cars, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions including craft stalls, food vendors, trade stands and free face painting for children, making it a popular day out for families.

The event will take place at Carew Airfield, a location well known for hosting large-scale gatherings, with easy access and ample space for exhibitors and visitors alike.

Organisers are encouraging car owners, traders and exhibitors to get involved, with applications now open for those wishing to showcase vehicles or run stalls on the day.

Admission prices have been kept affordable, with family tickets priced at £10, while adults and OAPs pay £5 and children £3. Both cash and card payments will be accepted.

A spokesperson for the club said the show continues to grow year on year, adding: “It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together, celebrate classic cars, and support local traders in a fantastic setting.”

For exhibitor and trade enquiries, contact [email protected]. Stall holders and car boot sellers can apply via [email protected].

Community

Residents evacuated after Carmarthenshire fire as investigation continues

Published

2 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES remain at the scene of a serious property fire in Kidwelly as investigations continue and efforts are made to make the building safe.

The fire broke out on Lady Street in the early hours of Tuesday (March 24), prompting a multi-agency response involving Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Carmarthenshire County Council.

As a precaution, neighbouring properties were evacuated due to safety concerns, with residents temporarily displaced while the structural integrity of the affected building is assessed.

Safety work underway

Contractors were due to begin work at 9:00am on Thursday (March 27) to stabilise the structure and allow investigators to safely access the site. Authorities say the priority is to ensure the building is secure so residents can return to their homes as soon as possible.

However, officials have stressed that this will not happen until the site is deemed safe.

Lady Street remains closed while the work is carried out, with disruption expected to continue in the area.

Appeal for information

Police have thanked the local community for their patience and support during the ongoing incident.

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage recorded between 11:00pm on Monday (March 23) and 4:00am on Tuesday (March 24).

Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.