Community

Survey highlights importance of coast for mental and physical wellbeing

Published

1 year ago

July 10, 2024

AS part of the current review, members of the public were invited to share what makes the National Park special for them, and suggest what needs to be done to protect and restore these distinctive features.

Unsurprisingly, landscapes and seascapes featured strongly in the responses, with one participant describing the Park as “a massive and priceless resource for people’s mental and physical health.”

The spectacular coastline, offshore islands and big seascapes also gained a special mention, with some stating that the beaches in Pembrokeshire are better than many of those found abroad.

For many, the panoramic views and breathtaking vistas of the county and further afield from hills and headlands, such as the Preselis, St David’s Head and St Govan’s Head, were listed as some of the most special features of the National Park.

Walking featured as the most popular activity in the Park, supported by the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail and an extensive network of paths and rights of way, which allow users to explore secret valleys, ancient woodlands, and tranquil rivers.

“We need spaces like this where we can recharge our physical and psychological batteries,” said one respondent, once again highlighting the Park’s importance for mental and physical wellbeing.

The Park’s tranquillity was also listed as one of its special features, along with the eight fully accessible designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites, where the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye on cloudless, moonless nights.

The Pembrokeshire Coast means more to its residents and visitors than spectacular scenery and a place to unwind, though. According to the survey, the heritage and culture of the area, including the Welsh language, are something to be cherished and safeguarded for future generations.

One of the respondents noted: “Pentre Ifan, Carni Ingli and Cwm Gwaun. These places have deep cultural significance to Cymru. They still retain the Welsh language and culture… we can still connect with our deep past by being mindful in these beautiful places.”

All comments made as part of this consultation have been used to inform a draft Plan, which sets out proposals and identifies key partners who need to be involved.

Consultation on this started earlier this month and will end on Monday 30 September. Members of the public will be able to comment online at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/public-consultations.

There will also be a number of opportunities to feed into the consultation at events throughout the summer.

Proposed changes will be presented to Authority Members later in the year, in order for the new Partnership Plan to be in place for 2025-2029.

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

22 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

23 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush

A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.

The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.

Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.

He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”

Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.

The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.

Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.

Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).