Business

Glorious weather marks first day of Pembrokeshire County Show

Published

1 year ago

August 14, 2024

THE PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY SHOW, Wales’ largest and most celebrated agricultural event, opened its gates today to a bustling crowd under glorious sunshine. The first day of the two-day event saw thousands of visitors flock to the Pembrokeshire County Showground in Haverfordwest, eager to soak up the rural atmosphere, enjoy the varied attractions, and take advantage of the perfect weather conditions.

This year’s show is particularly special, marking the 240th anniversary of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society (PAS). The Society has worked tirelessly to create a show that honors its rich history while embracing modernity. This year’s show has something for everyone, from livestock competitions and food stalls to live entertainment and interactive displays.

***There were large crowds on the first day of the Show this year (Pic: PAS)***

Among the distinguished guests was Wales’ First Minister, Eluned Morgan, making her first official visit to Pembrokeshire since being elected. Ms. Morgan spent the day touring the showground, expressing her admiration for the event’s organisation and its return to pre-pandemic vibrancy. “It’s a really lovely day this year. Things have been building back up to pre-pandemic levels. It’s been wonderful. Lots of people are here from Pembrokeshire and beyond. It has been brilliantly organised,” she remarked.

***Sunglasses and flags at the Principality Building Society stand (Pic: Herald)***

The First Minister was particularly taken with the livestock exhibitions, a cornerstone of the show. “One of my favourite parts of the show is seeing the livestock. It’s amazing to think about all the work that has gone in over generations to ensure an animal is in peak condition,” she added. Her visit underscored the show’s significance not only as a local tradition but as an event of national importance.

The weather played a key role in the day’s success, with many show-goers arriving early to make the most of the sunny conditions. Traffic began to build up as early as 7:30 a.m., as eager visitors made their way to the showground. “It’s nice to see the sun and it’s certainly brought out the crowds,” said Adam Thorne, President of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society, who officially opened the show from the main ring.

***Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell was at the Show (Pic: Herald)***

Mr. Thorne, an arable and beef farmer and the third generation of his family to hold the office of society president, reflected on the vital role of volunteers in making the show possible. “We’ve got 200 voluntary stewards across all the sections, and the show just wouldn’t be possible without them,” he said, emphasising the community spirit that underpins the event.

Show director and trustee Delme Harries echoed these sentiments, highlighting how the event has evolved over the centuries. “Before the pandemic, we had eight full-time show staff, and that’s now down to two, so we are lucky to be able to rely very heavily on volunteers and are conscious that we must involve the next generation as well,” he explained. Mr. Harries also pointed to the show’s ability to adapt, embracing social media and the growing demand for quality, locally-made goods while staying true to its agricultural roots.

***Pembrokeshire Coast National Park ‘s tent at Pembrokeshire County Show (Pic: Herald)***

One of the show’s standout attractions was the presence of Aquarius, a magnificent White-Tailed Eagle with a two-metre wingspan, brought by the British Bird of Prey Centre. Aquarius has captivated visitors with her impressive size and grace, serving as a symbol of the effort to reintroduce these majestic birds to Welsh skies. Alongside Aquarius was the Centre’s newest addition, a baby Snowy Owl, which charmed the crowds with its sleepy demeanor.

This year also saw the triumphant return of the poultry competition, which had been absent in recent years due to the pandemic and avian flu concerns. The competition attracted 600 entries, ranging from individual birds to crafts and eggs, delighting both participants and spectators. “Although this year’s entries are half of what they used to be, they are double what we expected because we went ahead at the last minute,” said poultry show secretary Bethan Clarke, expressing her satisfaction with the turnout.

Food lovers were treated to a feast at the Welsh Food Hall, sponsored by Castell Howell. The Hall showcased over 40 local producers offering everything from cider to cheesecake, along with regular cookery demonstrations that drew large crowds. This celebration of Welsh food and drink has become a highlight of the show, reflecting the region’s rich culinary heritage and innovation.

The showground itself was a hive of activity, with the Country Market shopping area featuring 60 stalls selling unique, artisan products. Families and children enjoyed a range of activities, including rugby skills sessions with the Scarlets, Little Legs Football, and the always popular Panic Circus Big Top, which offered free fun and games for all ages.

The Countryside Park was another popular area, where visitors could engage with the British Bird of Prey Centre’s exhibits, including talks on Eagle Reintroduction Wales and the chance to meet some of the Centre’s residents up close. The Ferret World exhibit and the gundog display team led by Wales’ top handler, Meurig Rees, also drew large audiences, offering a glimpse into traditional country life.

The show’s success was further boosted by the live entertainment provided by Pure West Radio, which broadcasted live from the event. The radio station’s stage featured live music, competitions, performances, and special guests, ensuring that there was never a dull moment.

As the first day drew to a close, attention turned to the forecast for the second day of the show, which looks uncertain. However, the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society remains optimistic that visitors will turn out in force, rain or shine. Thursday’s schedule includes the much-anticipated judging of sheep and pig classes, concluding with the supreme horse championship at 5 p.m.

Thursday will also see the Ladies Day reception in the Members’ Marquee, where guests will don their finest attire and enjoy Prosecco, all while raising funds for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI).

The Pembrokeshire County Show, with its blend of tradition, community, and entertainment, has once again proven why it is a cornerstone of Welsh rural life. As visitors look forward to the final day, the show’s organisers are confident that it will be another day to remember, whatever the weather may bring.

Business

Cardiff Airport announces special Air France flights for Six Nations

Published

2 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Direct services to Paris-Charles de Gaulle launched to cater for Welsh supporters, French fans and couples planning a Valentine’s getaway

CARDIFF AIRPORT and Air France have unveiled a series of special direct flights between Cardiff (CWL) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) scheduled for February 2026.

Timed to coincide with two major dates — the Wales v France Six Nations clash on Saturday 15 February and Valentine’s weekend — the flights are designed to offer supporters and holidaymakers an easy link between the two capitals.

For travelling French rugby fans, the services provide a straightforward route into Wales ahead of match day at the Principality Stadium, when Cardiff will once again be transformed by the colour, noise and passion that accompanies one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited fixtures.

For Welsh passengers, the additional flights offer a seamless escape to Paris for Valentine’s Day, as well as opportunities for short breaks and onward travel via Air France’s wider global network.

Cardiff Airport CEO Jon Bridge said: “We’re thrilled to offer direct flights to such a vibrant and exciting city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach and giving customers fantastic travel options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are delighted to make this opportunity possible. There is more to come from Cardiff.”

Tickets are already on sale via the Air France website and through travel agents.

Special flight schedule

Paris (CDG) → Cardiff (CWL):

13 February 2026: AF4148 departs 17:00 (arrives 17:30)
14 February 2026: AF4148 departs 14:00 (arrives 14:30)
15 February 2026: AF4148 departs 08:00 (arrives 08:30)
15 February 2026: AF4150 departs 19:40 (arrives 20:10)
16 February 2026: AF4148 departs 08:00 (arrives 08:30)
16 February 2026: AF4150 departs 16:30 (arrives 17:00)

Cardiff (CWL) → Paris (CDG):

13 February 2026: AF4149 departs 18:20 (arrives 20:50)
14 February 2026: AF4149 departs 15:20 (arrives 17:50)
15 February 2026: AF4149 departs 09:20 (arrives 11:50)
15 February 2026: AF4151 departs 21:00 (arrives 23:30)
16 February 2026: AF4149 departs 09:20 (arrives 11:50)
16 February 2026: AF4151 departs 17:50 (arrives 20:20)

Business

Cwm Deri Vineyard Martletwy holiday lets plans deferred

Published

10 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

CALLS to convert a former vineyard restaurant in rural Pembrokeshire which had been recommended for refusal has been given a breathing space by planners.

In an application recommended for refusal at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Barry Cadogan sought permission for a farm diversification and expansion of an existing holiday operation through the conversion of the redundant former Cwm Deri vineyard production base and restaurant to three holiday lets at Oaklea, Martletwy.

It was recommended for refusal on the grounds of the open countryside location being contrary to planning policy and there was no evidence submitted that the application would not increase foul flows and that nutrient neutrality in the Pembrokeshire Marine SAC would be achieved within this catchment.

An officer report said that, while the scheme was suggested as a form of farm diversification, no detail had been provided in the form of a business case.

Speaking at the meeting, agent Andrew Vaughan-Harries of Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, after the committee had enjoyed a seasonal break for mince pies, said of the recommendation for refusal: “I’m a bit grumpy over this one; the client has done everything right, he has talked with the authority and it’s not in retrospect but has had a negative report from your officers.”

He said the former Cwm Deri vineyard had been a very successful business, with a shop and a restaurant catering for ‘100 covers’ before it closed two three years ago when the original owner relocated to Carmarthenshire.

He said Mr Cadogan then bought the site, farming over 36 acres and running a small campsite of 20 spaces, but didn’t wish to run a café or a wine shop; arguing the “beautiful kitchen” and facilities would easily convert to holiday let use.

He said a “common sense approach” showed a septic tank that could cope with a restaurant of “100 covers” could cope with three holiday lets, describing the nitrates issue as “a red herring”.

He suggested a deferral for further information to be provided by the applicant, adding: “This is a big, missed opportunity if we just kick this out today, there’s a building sitting there not creating any jobs.”

On the ‘open countryside’ argument, he said that while many viewed Martletwy as “a little bit in the sticks” there was already permission for the campsite, and the restaurant, and the Bluestone holiday park and the Wild Lakes water park were roughly a mile or so away.

He said converting the former restaurant would “be an asset to bring it over to tourism,” adding: “We don’t all want to stay in Tenby or the Ty Hotel in Milford Haven.”

While Cllr Nick Neuman felt the nutrients issue could be overcome, Cllr Michael Williams warned the application was “clearly outside policy,” recommending it be refused.

A counter-proposal, by Cllr Tony Wilcox, called for a site visit before any decision was made, the application returning to a future committee; members voting seven to three in favour of that.

Business

Welsh Govt shifts stance on business rates after pressure from S4C and Herald

Published

21 hours ago

December 3, 2025

Sarah-Jane Absalom

Ministers release unexpected statement 48 hours after widespread concern highlighted in Welsh media

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has announced a new package of tapered business rates relief for 2026-27, in a move that follows sustained pressure from Welsh media — including S4C Newyddion and The Pembrokeshire Herald — over the impact of revaluation on small businesses.

In Milford Haven, the hard-pressed pub sector is already feeling the impact: the annual bill for The Lord Kitchener is rising from £5,000 to £15,000, while rates at the Kimberley Public House have nearly doubled from £10,500 to £19,500. The Imperial Hall’s rates are increasing from £5,800 to £9,200, prompting director Lee Bridges to question why businesses “are being asked to pay more when we use less services”. In Haverfordwest, the annual rates bill for Eddie’s Nightclub is increasing from £57,000 to £61,500.

A written statement, issued suddenly on Wednesday afternoon, confirms that ministers will introduce a transitional “tapering mechanism” to soften steep increases for tourism, hospitality and small independent operators. Full details will be published with the draft Budget later this month.

The announcement comes less than two days after The Herald’s in-depth reporting brought forward direct concerns from Pembrokeshire business owners and councillors, highlighting the uncertainty facing one of Wales’ most important local industries.

Herald reporting credited by senior councillor

Pembrokeshire County Council Independent Group Leader Cllr Huw Carnhuan Murphy publicly thanked The Herald for pushing the issue into the spotlight.

In a statement shared on Wednesday, Cllr Murphy said: “Welcome news from Welsh Government. Thanks to Tom Sinclair for running this important item in the Herald in relation to the revaluation of businesses and the consequences it will have for many.

He added: “Newyddion S4C hefyd am redeg y stori pwysig yma ynghylch trethi busnes.,” which in English is “and thanks to S4C Newyddion as well for running this important story about business taxes.”

He added that the Independent Group “will always campaign to support our tourism and agriculture industry, on which so many residents rely within Pembrokeshire”.

Media spotlight increased pressure on Cardiff Bay

On Monday, ministers said business rates plans would be outlined “within the next two weeks”.
By Wednesday afternoon — following prominent coverage on S4C and continued pressure from The Herald — Welsh Government released an early written statement outlining new support.

Industry sources told The Herald they believed the level of public concern, amplified by the media, “forced the issue up the agenda much faster than expected”.

A cautious welcome for ‘better than nothing’

Cllr Murphy welcomed the partial support, though he stressed it fell short of what many businesses had hoped for.

“This isn’t the level of support many were hoping for,” he said, “but it is certainly much better than nothing.”

Draft Budget expected soon

The full tapered support scheme will be detailed in the Welsh Government draft Budget, expected within a fortnight.

Tourism and hospitality representatives have reserved final judgment until the figures are published, but many have expressed relief that some support will continue, following weeks of uncertainty.