Community

Trial for Angle lifeboat at Milford Haven after downgrade fears

Published

4 months ago

August 1, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A SIX-MONTH trial to operate Angle’s all-weather Tamar class lifeboat across the waterway in Milford Haven, from the Port Authority’s jetty has started.

Earlier this year, fears were raised that the station – one of the busiest in west Wales – could be downgraded in favour of activities being run from Milford Haven.

Back in May, an RNLI spokesperson said: “It is becoming increasingly challenging for the RNLI to sustain operations at Angle Lifeboat Station due to its remote location and declining population.

“Since 2012, a local operating procedure has been in place for Angle’s all-weather lifeboat to collect crew from Milford Haven when attending incidents to ensure adequate crewing levels.

“The RNLI has recently provided extra support to crew based in Milford Haven, developing more infrastructure and dedicated training for volunteers.

“Angle’s all-weather lifeboat is currently based on a swing mooring to ensure it can be launched quickly and effectively in an emergency, due to limited amount of shore crew with daytime availability at Angle.

“Supplementing this arrangement, the RNLI has been operating from Milford Haven three days a week in order to maintain our lifesaving effect. We are working with Milford Haven Port Authority with a view to extending this arrangement to a 24/7 service for a three-to-six-month trial.

“We will still require the services of the Angle RNLI volunteer crew, but continue to review the situation in order to ensure the long-term viability of the station.”

The 24-7 trial will now be run over six months.

The RNLI has said it recently provided extra support to crew based in Milford Haven, developing more infrastructure and dedicated training for volunteers there.

The RNLI also invested in additional full-time crew at Angle to ensure the lifeboat could continue to operate. However, these arrangements are not sustainable long-term, it said.

Ryan Jennings, RNLI Regional Operations Lead said: “This is not a decision that has been taken lightly but is necessary to enable the RNLI to continue to save lives to the best affect in the Cleddau Estuary and surrounding waterways.

“To ensure the long-term sustainability of lifesaving in the area, we are keen to undertake this trial and assess its impact. We will still require the services of the Angle RNLI volunteer crew and welcome any new additional crew; however, we continue to review the situation in order to ensure the long-term viability of the station.

“The RNLI is committed to ensuring an effective lifesaving service in the Cleddau Estuary and surrounding area and is grateful to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support. We are committed to looking at ways of creating a lifeboat service, which is sustainable into the future. A trial at Milford Haven gives us the opportunity to explore this.’

Harbourmaster at the Port of Milford Haven, Mike Ryan, said: “We are fully supportive of the RNLI’s trial to operate from Milford Haven as we want to help them find a workable, long term solution that will benefit all users of the Waterway and keep everyone safe.’

The trial commenced this week, and the RNLI will assess and review the results once complete.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!