News
Crymych mourns the loss of local rugby club legend
THE COMMUNITY of Crymych is in mourning following the death of John Barley, a beloved founding member of Clwb Rygbi Crymych, who passed away this week. John Barley, whose dedication to the club spanned four decades, was instrumental in shaping the local rugby scene and fostering a sense of community spirit.
John Barley was not only a founding member of Clwb Rygbi Crymych but also served tirelessly on the club’s committee until his recent retirement just last week. Over the past 40 years, John’s commitment to the club and its members was unwavering. Known for his mischievous smile and infectious laugh, John was a fixture at the club every weekend, spreading joy and camaraderie.
The loss of John Barley is a significant blow to the club and the entire Crymych community. His presence and contributions went far beyond the rugby field, touching the lives of many. The heartfelt condolences of the community are extended to his family during this difficult time.
“Mae Crymych yn dlotach heddiw ar ôl colli un o’r goreuon,” the club’s statement read in Welsh, expressing the sentiment that Crymych is poorer today after losing one of its finest. The statement went on to highlight John’s tireless service and the joy he brought to those around him.
John’s dedication and spirit have left an indelible mark on Clwb Rygbi Crymych. As the club and community navigate this profound loss, they take solace in the legacy of kindness, dedication, and joy that John Barley leaves behind.
The Crymych community and Clwb Rygbi Crymych will continue to honour his memory, ensuring that his contributions are never forgotten. A memorial service is expected to be held in the coming days, where friends, family, and club members will gather to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to his community.
For now, the club and its supporters remember John with fondness and gratitude, cherishing the moments and memories that defined his remarkable life. The rugby field and clubhouse will undoubtedly feel the void left by his absence, but his spirit will continue to inspire future generations of Crymych rugby players and fans.
Our deepest condolences go out to John’s family and friends during this time of mourning. The impact of his loss is felt deeply across the community, a testament to the extraordinary man he was.
Community
Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity
THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.
Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.
The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.
Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.
Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.
(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)
Business
Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure
PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.
The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.
The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.
A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”
Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.
Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.
From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.
Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.
(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
Community
Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend
ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.
In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”
Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.
Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.
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