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Pembrokeshire Division One cricket round-up

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LAST week’s action in the First Division delivered yet another thrilling chapter in what has been one of the most exciting seasons in recent history. Carew secured a commanding victory over local rivals Cresselly, closing the gap to within eight points of league leaders Neyland and setting up a tantalising title showdown next week. Meanwhile, St Ishmaels continued their impressive ascent up the table with another vital win, while Haverfordwest’s triumph over Whitland kept their survival hopes alive. Reigning champions Neyland faced a stern test but managed to maintain their lead with a narrow win over Lawrenny.

Carew Dominate Cresselly to Close in on Title

Carew sent a strong message to their title rivals with a resounding 197-run victory over Cresselly. Batting first, Carew amassed an imposing 286 for 6, led by James Hinchliffe’s unbeaten 63. Key contributions from Tim Hicks (56), Nick Davies (41*), and a brisk 43 from Shaun Whitfield ensured a daunting total for the hosts. Cresselly’s bowlers struggled, with only Charlie Arthur managing respectable figures of 2 for 39.

In reply, Cresselly were dismantled by young Iori Hicks, who claimed a stunning 5 for 15 as the visitors were skittled for just 89. Hinchliffe capped off a superb all-round performance by taking 3 for 22, sealing a dominant win for Carew.

Neyland Survive Lawrenny Scare to Retain Top Spot

Neyland clung to the top of the table with a nerve-wracking 2-wicket win over Harrison Allen finalists Lawrenny. Chasing 191 for victory, Neyland’s innings was anchored by Dai Davies (37) and Ross Hardy (33), but it was the 39 extras conceded by Lawrenny that proved decisive in the end.

Earlier, Lawrenny had posted 190 for 7, with steady contributions from Harry Thomas (30) and Ryan Morton (25). Alan Webster was the pick of Neyland’s bowlers, taking 3 for 63. Despite a valiant effort from Lawrenny’s attack, which reduced Neyland to 162 for 8, Sean Hannon (19*) and Lewis Page (15*) held their nerve to see their side home with three balls to spare.

St Ishmaels Continue Resurgence with Crucial Win Over Llangwm

St Ishmaels continued their resurgence with a vital victory over relegation rivals Llangwm. Batting first, Llangwm were bowled out for 132, with Matthew Kiff’s 45 standing out. Jonathan Pawlett was Tish’s star with the ball, claiming 4 for 35.

Tish chased down the target with six wickets in hand, thanks to a composed 51 not out from Phil Llewellyn. Pawlett also contributed with the bat, scoring 40, as Tish secured their second consecutive win. The defeat leaves Llangwm in dire straits, languishing in second-bottom place, ten points adrift of Tish, who have now moved clear of the relegation zone.

Haverfordwest Secure Crucial Win Over Whitland

Haverfordwest bolstered their survival hopes with a crucial 29-run victory over Whitland. Batting first, Town posted 198 all out, with Mikey Jones top-scoring with a vital 60.

In response, Whitland struggled to build momentum and were restricted to 169. Adam James bowled with pace and precision, taking three key wickets as Whitland’s batsmen failed to fire. The win all but secures Town’s place in the division, while Whitland remain mired in the lower half of the table.

Saundersfoot Edge Narberth in High-Scoring Thriller

Saundersfoot claimed a 37-run victory over Narberth in a high-scoring encounter that saw both teams amass significant totals. Batting first, Saundersfoot reached 208 for 7, with Simon Stanford (48) and Sam Franklin (40) leading the charge. Loui Davies was the pick of Narberth’s bowlers, taking 3 for 24.

Narberth responded with a spirited effort, as Jamie McCormack (48) and Ben Quartermaine (32) kept them in the hunt. However, they ultimately fell short, being bowled out for 171. Nick Cope’s 3 for 16 and Sam Franklin’s 2 for 12 were instrumental in Saundersfoot’s victory, leaving Narberth on the brink of relegation.

Crime

Haverfordwest retailer accused of Bounce Back Loan fraud

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A HAVERFORDWEST businessman has been accused of committing fraud by making false representations to multiple banks in applications for Government-backed Bounce Back Loans.

Zahid Afzal, 36, of Albert Street, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he pleaded not guilty to three charges of fraud by false representation.

The court heard that Afzal, listed on Companies House as a director of Phone Bits Ltd and Phones Onn Ltd, allegedly made false statements to secure loans intended to support businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Phone Bits phone accessory and repair shop in Haverfordwest

Prosecutors claim that on May 12, 2020, he falsely stated to Barclays Bank that the application for a Bounce Back Loan was Phone Bits Ltd’s only application. It is further alleged that he made similar false claims to Starling Bank on July 23, 2020, and to Metro Bank on November 22, 2020, in relation to Phones Onn Ltd.

The alleged misrepresentations included inflating the company’s turnover to £200,000 and falsely claiming the loans would be used solely for business purposes.

Afzal’s case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court for trial, with a hearing scheduled for March 10. He was granted unconditional bail.

An interpreter will be required for the proceedings, as Afzal requires assistance in Urdu.

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Charity

Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

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THE CREW of Tenby RNLI have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to 5-year-old Archie Garland for his outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the station.

Archie took part in the Advent Challenge with the Tenby Aces over Christmas, running a minimum of one mile every day throughout Advent. His dedication saw him cover an impressive 47.3 miles, raising a remarkable £552.25 thanks to generous donations from the local community.

Archie is pictured with (L-R): Deputy Coxswain Gary Waring, his dad and Deputy Coxswain Rob Garland, Deputy Coxswain Dan Young, station full-time mechanic Will Horton, and his mum, Tenby Aces member Claire Thomas.

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Crime

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn launches ambitious four-year policing plan

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Public trust at the heart of new strategy

DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has unveiled his four-year Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, outlining his vision to strengthen public trust and confidence in policing.

Plan to strengthen public’s trust in local police service: Dafydd Llywelyn

The plan, shaped by extensive public consultation, sets out priorities for policing, crime prevention, and the criminal justice system across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys. It follows feedback from surveys and focus groups, where residents highlighted their key concerns.

The three core priorities of the plan are:

  • Supporting victims and preventing victimisation
  • Preventing harm to ensure safer communities
  • Enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system

Llywelyn formally launched the plan on Tuesday (Feb 13) at an event attended by key partners and commissioned services. The event focused on collaboration, with discussions on how joint efforts can strengthen crime prevention, victim support, and justice delivery.

Victims at the centre

Commissioner Llywelyn emphasised the importance of ensuring victims receive the right support.

“This plan is built on the views of our communities, focusing on what truly matters to the people of Mid and West Wales,” he said. “Victims must be at the heart of our policing and justice system. It is essential that those affected by crime have access to timely, effective support to help them recover and seek justice. Strengthening services that prevent victimisation is just as important as responding to crime itself.”

Tackling root causes of crime

The plan also prioritises crime prevention by addressing underlying issues.

“By tackling antisocial behaviour and vulnerability, we can reduce harm and build a more resilient society,” Llywelyn said. “A proactive, problem-solving approach will ensure resources are used effectively to protect our communities.”

A joined-up approach to justice

Llywelyn stressed the need for stronger collaboration across the justice system.

“A fair and efficient justice system relies on agencies working together. I will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that policing, the courts, and support services deliver justice fairly and effectively for victims and communities alike.”

The Police and Crime Plan sets out a clear vision for Dyfed-Powys policing over the next four years, focusing on improving public safety, supporting victims, and delivering an efficient justice system.

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