News

Large turnout makes Pembroke River Rally a resounding success

Published

4 months ago

August 18, 2024

THE ANNUAL Pembroke River Rally, a cherished tradition organised by the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society (WWMHS) in partnership with the Pembroke Dock Town Council, Pembroke Town Council, and Pembrokeshire County Council, was greeted with fine weather and an impressive turnout, making this year’s event one of the most successful in its history.

Boats began assembling at Crow Pool from 2pm, where participants were welcomed by the sight of the WWMHS lead boat. This year, the rally was graced with the presence of the Mayors of Pembroke Town and Pembroke Dock, who joined the lead boat for the journey up the scenic Pembroke River. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze on the water, the lead boat departed Crow Pool at 2:30pm, followed by an impressive convoy of boats, all eager to partake in this annual spectacle.

The procession made its way up the river, arriving at the iconic Castle Pond around 3pm, where a large crowd had gathered to witness the event. The atmosphere was electric, with the anticipation of the mayoral addresses adding to the excitement. Upon their arrival, the mayors addressed the gathered crowds, expressing their gratitude for the strong community support and the rally’s growing success year after year.

The rally’s success was further highlighted by the sheer number of boats participating.

The car park adjacent to Castle Pond was abuzz with activity as various stands offering food, drink, and gifts catered to the spectators and participants alike. The lively atmosphere was enjoyed by all, with many expressing their delight at the beautiful weather and the splendid organization of the event.

The day’s events were not only about celebration but also about maintaining a crucial right of navigation up the Pembroke River, an important aspect of the local maritime heritage that the rally proudly upholds.

As the afternoon wore on, boats began to depart Castle Pond around 6:30 pm, marking the end of a day filled with community spirit, maritime tradition, and good cheer. Special thanks were extended to The Cove for providing the safety boat, ensuring that the event ran smoothly and safely.

This year’s Pembroke River Rally has set a new standard, not just in terms of participation but also in showcasing the vibrant maritime culture of Pembroke. The rally continues to be a highlight of the local calendar, bringing together the community in celebration of their shared heritage and love for the river.

This year’s Pembroke River Rally will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most successful and enjoyable to date, setting a high bar for the years to come.

Charity

Letterston dog show raises over £750 for local charities

Published

19 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SUNDAY (Dec 22), Letterston Ring Craft successfully raised £755.55 for two Pembrokeshire-based charities during a fun dog show event. The funds were equally split between South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue and Letterston Memorial Hall.

The event featured a variety of well-attended classes, including child handling and fancy dress, drawing participation from dog enthusiasts of all levels.

This fundraiser marked the first charitable event supporting South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue. Founded and managed by Lizzy Austwick, the rescue organisation aids unwanted, feral, and sick cats across Pembrokeshire and responds to urgent cases in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. The rescue provides neutering support for stray and feral cats, directs owners to available resources, and specialises in helping stray cats with severe injuries, raising essential funds for their care.

For assistance, Lizzy can be contacted via the rescue’s Facebook page or at 07575 131443.

Letterston Ring Craft welcomes new members interested in training and showing their dogs, from local companion shows to prestigious events like Crufts. The club meets every other Sunday in Letterston, and further details can be found on their Facebook page.

Looking ahead, the next fun dog show is scheduled for early next year and will support Belle’s Story Charity. For more information or to get involved, contact Gentle Lowe at 07956 653401.

Charity

£3,800 donated to services across Withybush Hospital

Published

20 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE CAMROSE VINTAGE WORKING DAY team has donated £3,800 to services across Withybush Hospital.

Their 37^th annual event raised a record breaking £25,000, which has now been distributed among 26 local charities.

They donated the funds to the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit and Heads Up! Hair Loss Initiative at Withybush Hospital. Each service received £950.

The Heads Up! initiative provides a person-centred, holistic hair loss service for cancer patients. It brings together healthcare and haircare professionals from local communities to give patients the knowledge and products needed to manage their hair loss with dignity and choice.

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “Thank you to Andrew, the team and the supporters of the Camrose Vintage Working Day for your generosity once again. Your donation to each service is amazing and will make a big difference. We are hugely grateful for your wonderful support.

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

Pictured above: Andrew James, Chairman of Camrose Vintage Working Day with Withybush Hospital staff from the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit, Heads Up! Hair Loss initiative.

Community

Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success

Published

21 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.

Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.

The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.

The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.

A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.