Community
St Davids RNLI celebrates 200th anniversary with Sea Sunday service
ON SUNDAY (Jul 14) at St Davids Cathedral, a poignant Sea Sunday service marked the 200th anniversary of the RNLI, bringing together sea-based lifesavers and esteemed dignitaries in a celebration of gratitude and remembrance.
The highlight of the service was the unveiling of a Lifesavers Cross, meticulously crafted by RNLI crew member Nick Barthorpe. This symbolic cross, crafted from timber sourced from the RNLI’s historic lifeboat station, pays homage to generations of dedicated volunteers who have safeguarded our coastlines. The slate base, an integral part of the memorial, was expertly engraved by former station coxswain Malcolm Gray MBE, adding a personal touch to this commemoration.
The solemn ceremony saw the Lifesavers Cross blessed by the Lord Bishop and reverently placed in the Chapel of St Nicholas within the cathedral. St Nicholas, revered as the patron saint of seafarers, holds a special place in the hearts of those who brave the seas in service of others.
“This cross stands not only as a tribute to the past but as a beacon of hope for the future,” remarked Nick Barthorpe, reflecting on the significance of the occasion. “It embodies the spirit of selflessness and courage that defines the RNLI.”
The RNLI, founded in 1824, has been instrumental in saving countless lives across the British coastline, relying on the dedication of volunteers who risk their lives in treacherous waters to rescue those in peril.
The Sea Sunday service concluded with hymns and prayers, a fitting tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of all who serve under the banner of the RNLI. As the sun set over St Davids, the Lifesavers Cross stood as a testament to the enduring commitment of the RNLI and its unwavering mission to save lives at sea.
In attendance were local dignitaries, community members, and supporters of the RNLI, all united in honoring the organization’s rich heritage and ongoing service to the maritime community.
The RNLI’s legacy of courage and compassion continues to inspire, as reflected in the words of Lord Bishop during the service: “May this cross remind us all of the courage and humanity that define our lifesaving mission.”
The occasion served not only as a commemoration but also as a reminder of the RNLI’s crucial role in safeguarding our shores, resonating deeply with those who understand the unpredictable power of the sea.
As the RNLI looks ahead to the next 200 years, the Lifesavers Cross remains a poignant symbol of resilience and hope, ensuring that the sacrifices and achievements of its volunteers are never forgotten.

Community
Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes
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
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
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).
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