Community

A maritime journey through history as The Waverley visits Pembrokeshire

Published

2 years ago

June 22, 2024

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

Loose horse sparks police response in Pembroke

Published

2 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Animal seen galloping through residential streets and towards main road

POLICE are reportedly tracking a loose horse which strayed into a residential area of Pembroke.

The animal was first spotted in Gatehouse View before making its way onto a nearby main road.

A post on the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Citizens’ Forum said the horse had left Gatehouse View and was seen heading towards the road by Pembroke Leisure Centre.

The resident wrote: “Anyone recognise it? Police following it.”

The horse was later reported to be galloping down Buttermilk Lane in the direction of Martha’s.

Stray horses are not uncommon in the area. In January, several animals were reported loose around Pembroke and along the A477, particularly near Buttermilk Close and the Cleddau Bridge.

Those incidents created a hazard for motorists, prompting Pembrokeshire County Council to step in and return the animals. Drivers were advised to take extra care and avoid startling them.

Community

Charlie the ventriloquist doll returns to Pembroke Dock after 100 years

Published

10 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Beloved character to greet visitors as Heritage Centre reopens for new season

CHARLIE the 100-year-old ventriloquist’s doll is coming out of retirement — and back to where it all began.

Visitors to Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre will be greeted by the much-loved character when the attraction reopens for the new season on Monday (March 30).

It marks a nostalgic return for Charlie, who once performed in the very same building — then the Royal Dockyard Chapel — alongside his original owner, Ernie James, a Pembroke Dock bus company proprietor. Over the years, the duo became a familiar and popular act on the Pembrokeshire variety circuit.

Today, Charlie is cared for by Paul Elliott, of Llanreath, who inherited the doll from his father, Fred Elliott — better known locally as magician ‘Mr E’, whose shows delighted audiences for decades.

Charlie has also recently enjoyed a brush with national attention, appearing alongside Paul at a BBC Antiques Roadshow event in Swansea.

The Heritage Centre will offer free entry on opening day, with Charlie and Paul on hand to meet visitors and share stories from a century of entertainment.

Community

First person of colour to be elected mayor of Haverfordwest

Published

20 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A PEMBROKESHIRE town council will soon have its first-ever person of colour as mayor, and its youngest mayor in a century.

Haverfordwest Town Councillor Randell Iziah Thomas-Turner, aged 37, is to become mayor this May.

Cllr Turner said: “Tonight [March 19], I had the honour of accepting the nomination as mayor-elect — a moment that will forever stay with me.

“In doing so, I am humbled to be making history as the first mayor of colour in Haverfordwest and the youngest mayor in a century. This is not just my achievement, it belongs to every person who believes in progress, representation, and the power of community. This is a new chapter for our town — one built on unity, opportunity, and hope.

“My mayor-making will take place this May, and I cannot wait to officially step into the role and begin serving the people of Haverfordwest with pride, passion, and purpose. Haverfordwest is the best in the West — and together, we are just getting started.

“Diversity is not a challenge to overcome, but a strength to embrace. When people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives come together with respect and openness, we unlock new ideas, stronger solutions, and deeper understanding.”

It’s a double celebration for the Thomas-Turner family.

Wife, and fellow town councillor, Dani, has been voted as sheriff of the town for the second-year-running, the first woman to serve as sheriff for two consecutive years.

“The coming civic year will be one to watch as my husband Councillor Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner is becoming the first mayor of colour in Haverfordwest’s history,” said Cllr Dani Thomas-Turner, adding: “It’s going to be a year of history and memory making for sure.”