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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

Former Port Chair Dr Chris Martin Awarded OBE in New Year Honours

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DR CHRIS MARTIN, former Chair of the Port of Milford Haven and a proud Pembrokeshire native, has been awarded an OBE in The King’s New Year Honours list for his outstanding contribution to the maritime and ports sector.

Dr Martin’s leadership journey at the Port began in August 2017, following his appointment as Chair by the Secretary of State for Transport.

Prior to this, he had served as Vice Chair for four and a half years, bringing with him a wealth of experience from a successful entrepreneurial career.

Having built and sold pharmacy chains across South West England and Pembrokeshire, he transitioned into leadership roles across healthcare and advisory boards. Between 2009 and 2014, he was the lead Chair for all health organisations in Wales, demonstrating a strong commitment to public service.

During his tenure at the Port of Milford Haven, Dr Martin played a pivotal role in steering the organisation through a significant period of change and diversification.

His strategic vision ensured the Port maintained its position as the UK’s leading energy port and a cornerstone of Pembrokeshire’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and attracting inward investment.

Beyond the Port, Dr Martin’s dedication to public service extended to a variety of leadership roles.

He served as Deputy Lieutenant, Chair of Life Sciences Hub Wales, Trustee of Marie Curie UK, Governor at Pembrokeshire College, Co-Chair of the Bevan Commission, and Vice Chair of St John Ambulance Cymru.

Each role reflects his deep commitment to improving the lives of people across Wales and beyond.

This recognition is a moment of immense pride for the Port of Milford Haven, Dr Martin, and his family.

Congratulations, Dr Chris Martin, on this well-deserved honour, and thank you for your tireless dedication and service.

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Community

Milford Haven mum gives birth to triplets amid medical emergency

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PREGNANCY is often a challenging experience, but for Ellie Davies from Milford Haven, it became even more stressful when she found herself facing a 140-mile round trip away from home during labour.

Ellie was initially admitted to Carmarthen’s Glangwili Hospital with pre-eclampsia, a condition causing dangerously high blood pressure. However, due to a lack of available neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) beds, staff arranged her transfer to Singleton Hospital in Swansea, nearly 30 miles away. Thankfully, accommodation was also provided onsite for her fiancé, Craig Butland.

RENAL FAILURE COMPLICATIONS
Ellie explained: “I had pre-eclampsia and was taken to Glangwili. My blood pressure was going up and down, and they had to ring around hospitals with a NICU to see if they had any spare beds – Singleton was the only one with space.”

On November 12, Ellie was transferred to Swansea, where she remained on the antenatal ward. However, her condition worsened. “On Sunday 17, my kidneys became affected by the pre-eclampsia, and I was going into renal failure,” she said.

In the early hours of Monday, November 18, Ellie underwent an emergency C-section, delivering triplets Mia, Isla, and Elsie two months prematurely.

BRIEF FIRST MEETING
“I only met Isla, the middle triplet, for around two minutes before she was taken to neonatal to be with her sisters,” Ellie shared.

Mia was born weighing 2lb 9oz, Isla at 2lb 10oz, and Elsie at 2lb 8oz. All three girls initially required breathing support and spent nine days in the NICU. Now, over three pounds each, they are receiving care at Glangwili’s special care unit and are reportedly “doing really well.”

SUPPORT FROM NHS STAFF
Reflecting on their experience, Ellie praised the hospital staff: “The midwives Louise and Emily were amazing, answering every question we had and supporting us through everything. Dr Sree Nittur, who was there during the delivery, followed up daily. The neonatal nurses were absolutely fantastic, and we can’t thank them enough for their care and dedication.”

A PLACE TO STAY
For Craig, the availability of accommodation at Cwtsh Clos, a row of five houses on the Singleton Hospital site, was a significant relief. Without it, he would have faced daily commutes between Milford Haven and Swansea.

“Craig spent a week in Cwtsh Clos, and I joined him for the final night,” Ellie said. “It was a huge help having Craig so close. It’s one problem you don’t have to think about, and it gives you a space to gather your thoughts.”

The couple is now supporting Swansea Bay Health Charity’s Cwtsh Clos appeal, which aims to raise £160,000 to refurbish the homes for future families in similar situations.

‘TRIPLETS ARE A RARITY’
Lisa Harris, interim matron for neonatal services, said: “We are delighted to hear the girls are doing well. Cwtsh Clos allows parents to stay close to their babies, which is so important during such critical times.”

NICU consultant Kate Burke added: “Triplets are a rarity for us. We serve families across south central and south west Wales, and often, we’re the unit they turn to when pregnancies are more complicated. It’s wonderful to see families like Ellie and Craig’s returning home with their babies healthy and thriving.”

The family recently celebrated their first Christmas together with Mia, Isla, and Elsie, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all who supported them through their journey.

Support the Cwtsh Clos Appeal: Donations can be made via the Swansea Bay Health Charity website.

(Pic: Swansea Bay University Health Board)

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Charity

Boxing Day Duck Race raises £2,000 for Wales Air Ambulance

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THE ANNUAL BOXING DAY Duck Race in Lower Fishguard, organised by the Round Table Fishguard & District, proved to be another resounding success this year.

A large crowd gathered by the riverside to watch the vibrant yellow ducks race downstream, with participants and spectators enjoying the festive tradition despite the winter chill.

Thanks to overwhelming community support, the event raised an impressive £2,000 for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity, a vital service providing emergency air cover across the region.

The winners of this year’s race were:

  • 1st: Duck 807 – Rachel
  • 2nd: Duck 94 – Glenys Hughes
  • 3rd: Duck 119 – Howard Hughes

In a lighthearted twist, the title of ‘Last Place Duck’ went to Duck 937 – Julia Moffet, earning laughs from the crowd.

A spokesperson for the Round Table Fishguard & District said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who bought ducks, attended the event, or supported us in any way. It’s always a joy to see the community come together for such a great cause.”

The Boxing Day Duck Race continues to be a cherished tradition, blending fun, community spirit, and charity support into one delightful event.

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