Community
The Torch Theatre is calling on all creative adults
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IT’S never too late to get writing, appear on stage or learn all about directing. This summer, the Torch Theatre welcomes people 18 and over to come along and take part in Show Off! – an adult only series of creative sessions as part of its Summer School offer.
No previous experience is necessary to join these relaxed and accessible weekly evening sessions across the month of August, which aim to build on your creative skills. Led by Torch Artistic Director Chelsey Gillard and Youth and Community Senior Manager Tim Howe, the course concludes with a showcase performance in the Torch Studio.
This year the Torch is excited to able to offer two places completely free of charge on a first come, first served basis. These have been supported by a generous donation from one of last year’s participants. The donor was keen to help others access this valuable provision and said:
“I loved that there was an acting class for adults and was so grateful for that. It was really fun, I particularly enjoyed the theatre games and the final performance, despite the nerves! I went into it not really knowing what to expect but told myself that being “good” at acting was irrelevant. And it reminded me that the joy is in the playing, the creating, the trying of new things.”
Tim added: “We’re so excited to be running our friendly and welcoming adult summer school again this year and cannot wait to meet another group of fantastic participants! Chelsey and I are particularly pleased that we are able to offer two places completely free thanks to the support of one of last year’s participants. All of us at the Torch know the value to health and wellbeing that regular creative moments provide, and to have two spaces funded by someone who knows about that benefit first hand is such a brilliant endorsement of what we do. It’s a fantastic opportunity for two lucky people!”
Sessions will be held during the evening on Thursday 8, 15, 22 and 29 August 6.30pm – 9pm and Saturday 31 August from 10am to 9pm (including a showcase performance in the Torch Theatre Studio space).
Last year Marcela Ayala took part in the Adult Creative Sessions and she hasn’t looked back having taken part in the Torch Theatre’s productions of Private Lives as well as taking on a role supporting the delivery of the Torch Youth Theatre.
“The summer school meant I could re-connect with my inner child through games in a safe place. I had so much fun by interacting and creating characters with my peers. I never felt judged by the drama leader, on the contrary, he gave me the confidence to carry on to free myself from my own judgement,” said Marcela.
“This kind of safe place is so important to grow confidence. Sometimes we think we are not good enough or do not have many strong points to stand out among the crowd, but it might be that here at the Summer School you find your “weak” points are the ones, that audience members love and feel connected with, and that is amazing. I would love others to be part of the same experience, giving yourself a chance to have fun,” concluded Marcela.
To book your place in Show Off or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.
Community
Community rallies to support family of Chris ‘Mucker’ Boyle
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THE local community has come together to raise thousands of pounds in memory of Chris ‘Mucker’ Boyle, a beloved taxi driver who tragically lost his life in a road traffic accident earlier this week.
Mr Boyle, 57, from Kilgetty, was killed in a collision involving two vehicles near Tenby on the evening of Monday, 2nd September. His death has sent shockwaves through the area, where he was widely known and respected. In the days since the accident, friends, family, and customers have expressed their grief, remembering Mr Boyle for his generosity and kindness. His family remarked that he was “the kind of man who would do anything for anyone”.
A fundraising campaign to assist with funeral expenses and to support Mr Boyle’s five children has so far raised almost £13,700, with nearly 400 people contributing. One particularly generous individual has donated £750.
Gabriel Nowak, a colleague and fellow taxi driver, organised the fundraiser, stating: “I don’t think there’s anyone in Tenby or Pembrokeshire who didn’t know Mucker. His friendly face and his sense of humour will be missed by so many.”
“Chris was always there for people, whether it was squeezing in an extra lift or knocking a bit off the fare to make sure someone got home safely. Now it’s our turn to give back to him,” Mr Nowak added.
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Tributes have poured in, with friends and colleagues sharing fond memories of the late cabbie and expressing their sorrow over the loss of someone who was seen as a key figure in the community.
Chris Boyle’s funeral is set to take place at St Mary’s Church in Tenby on Friday, 27th September at 10:00 am, followed by a committal service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 12:15 pm. The funeral procession will pass through Kilgetty at approximately 11:45 am, allowing those who wish to pay their respects to do so.
Funeral directors W. & M.J. Rossiter & Sons, based in Tenby, shared a heartfelt message on behalf of Mr Boyle’s family: “Chris was a deeply loved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be sorely missed by his children Daniel, Chloe, Leah, Jimmy, and Tommy J, as well as his siblings Liz, David, and Lisa.”
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Firefighters Charity in Chris Boyle’s memory. Donations can be sent via the funeral directors.
Additionally, local rock and blues band Karma will be dedicating their upcoming performance at the Lawrenny Arms on Saturday, 14th September to Mr Boyle. A collection will be held during the event, with proceeds going to The Firefighters Charity.
A man has been charged in connection with the fatal accident. Mateusz Sikorski, 30, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving after his silver Volkswagen collided with a brown BMW near Penally on the A4139.
Mr Sikorski appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 5th September and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court on 7th October.
Dyfed-Powys Police have asked anyone with information about the incident to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 405 of Monday, 2nd September. Alternatively, those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The loss of Chris ‘Mucker’ Boyle has deeply impacted the local community, and the outpouring of support for his family is a testament to how cherished he was by those who knew him.
Community
Saundersfoot Annual Vintage Motorcycle Event showcases classic machines
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ON SATURDAY (Sept 7), Saundersfoot came alive with the roar of nearly 100 vintage motorcycles as the annual Saundersfoot Vintage Motorcycle Event hit the coastal roads of South Pembrokeshire. Enthusiasts and spectators alike were treated to the sight of beautifully restored bikes from a bygone era, as they cruised westward out of the village.
The event, a local favorite, drew riders and fans from across the region to celebrate the engineering marvels of the past. It was a day filled with nostalgia, as the sound of classic engines echoed through the scenic routes.
Check out the photos from the event, captured by Malcolm Richards, to relive the vintage spectacle, on our Facebook page.
Community
Blue Lagoon temporarily closed to protect seals and their pups
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ONE of Pembrokeshire’s most popular coastal attractions is to be temporarily closed to swimmers in a bid to protect breeding seals and their pups.
The National Trust will be closing the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy on Saturday, September 21, and it will remain closed until the beginning of November. The date of its re-opening is yet to be decided.
The nearby beach at Traeth Llyfn will also be closed for the same period.
Visitors will still be able to watch the seals and their pups in their natural habitat from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Anyone who may come across seals and their pups in other parts of Pembrokeshire is asked to avoid disturbing them and follow the Marine Code. This involves staying quiet, keeping at least 50 metres away from them, and never coming between a seal and her pup. Dogs must also be kept on leads at all times and kept away from the breeding areas.
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