News
Appeal for witnesses after serious kayak and motorboat collision on Haven
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MARINE authorities are urging witnesses to come forward after a significant collision between a kayak and a motorboat on the Cleddau River in Milford Haven.
The incident occurred on August 11 at approximately 3 pm near Rudders Boatyard on the Milford Haven Waterway. The kayaker involved in the collision was promptly attended to by the Welsh Ambulance Service and, fortunately, did not sustain life-threatening injuries. Despite this, the incident had the potential for far more serious outcomes.
Emergency services responded swiftly, with Dale Coastguard Rescue, Milford Haven Port Authority Harbour Patrol, and Dyfed-Powys Police all present at the scene.
Paul Atkins, from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) Regulatory Compliance Investigations Team, emphasized the gravity of the situation: “This was an incident with potentially serious consequences, so it’s crucial that we establish what exactly happened. We are appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision, possesses video footage or photographs, or has any information that could assist in our investigation to come forward.”
The investigation is being led by the MCA, with support from Dyfed-Powys Police and Milford Haven Port Authority.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the MCA’s Regulatory Compliance Investigations Team by calling 020 3817 2490 or emailing MCA.investigations@mcga.gov.uk.
News
Welsh Government under fire for £4.7 million spend on overseas offices
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Calls for Immediate Closure as Public Services Struggle
THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has come under heavy criticism for spending nearly £4.7 million in 2024 to maintain 20 overseas offices, with opposition leaders branding the expenditure “wasteful” and calling for the funds to be redirected to frontline services.
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Welsh Conservative Leader Darren Millar MS has written to First Minister Eluned Morgan, demanding the closure of the international offices, arguing that foreign relations are not a devolved matter and should be handled by UK embassies instead.
Mr. Millar, who also serves as Leader of the Opposition in the Senedd, slammed the spending, stating:
“It is absolutely ridiculous that Welsh Labour is squandering millions of pounds of our money funding 20 mini-embassies across the world. International relations are not devolved matters, yet the Welsh Government continues to waste millions on maintaining overseas offices that make little difference to most people in Wales.”
The Welsh Government’s overseas offices, located in cities including Beijing, New York, and Dubai, are intended to promote Welsh business interests internationally. However, critics argue that their effectiveness is questionable, particularly when the UK Government already operates embassies and consulates worldwide.
Public services under pressure
Mr. Millar pointed to the crumbling NHS, struggling local councils, and the cost-of-living crisis as areas that should be prioritised instead of what he called “lavish outposts.”
“The Welsh Government must stop squandering taxpayers’ money on these vanity projects and start addressing the real issues at home instead—fixing our NHS, supporting cash-strapped councils, and helping families struggling with living costs.”
In his letter to the First Minister, Mr. Millar urged the Welsh Government to shut down the offices immediately and work with the UK Foreign Office to ensure that Welsh interests are represented through existing British diplomatic channels.
The Welsh Government has previously defended its international offices, arguing that they help attract investment, promote exports, and strengthen Wales’ global profile. However, critics remain unconvinced, particularly as the Senedd does not have devolved control over foreign affairs.
This latest row adds to ongoing tensions over Labour’s handling of public finances, with opposition parties calling for greater transparency and a stronger focus on domestic priorities.
The First Minister’s office has been contacted for comment.
(Cover image: 885 2nd Ave, New York where the Welsh Government has an office in the USA)
Community
Tenby’s streets packed for annual pancake race
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TENBY lifeboat crew joined in, as locals and visitors gathered in Tudor Square for some half-term fun at the now-famous annual pancake race on Tuesday (Feb 25).
Crowds lined the streets as competitors of all ages took on the 60-metre dash, flipping pancakes as they ran. The highly anticipated showdown among members of Tenby’s RNLI crew was once again the highlight, providing plenty of excitement and laughter.
Participants brought their own frying pans and pancakes, demonstrating impressive flipping skills in a spirited contest that has become a cherished community tradition.
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Organisers confirmed that this year’s event raised valuable funds for Tenby RNLI, with each competitor contributing a £3 entry donation. All proceeds from the day will directly support the lifesaving efforts of the town’s dedicated volunteer lifeboat crew.
Speaking after the races, a spokesperson from Tenby RNLI said: “It’s always wonderful to see the community come together and support such a fun event. The lifeboat crew were determined to retain their bragging rights, and we’re thrilled with the turnout and generosity shown again this year.”
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Planning for next year’s pancake race is already underway, with organisers hoping for an even bigger turnout in support of this beloved Tenby tradition.
(Pictures: Gareth Davies/Herald)
Crime
Pembroke Dock child attack: Banned breed dog put down
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A DOG that attacked a young child in Pembroke Dock, leaving them with serious injuries, was a banned breed, police have confirmed.
The attack happened at a property on Bush Street at around 6:50pm on Saturday (Feb 22). Dyfed-Powys Police were called to the scene following reports that a child had been bitten.
The child remains in hospital with serious injuries.
A dog was seized at the scene and has since been put down. Police have now confirmed the animal was described as a Pit Bull Terrier, a breed banned under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
A 42-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog causing injury. She has since been released on bail as investigations continue.
A significant police presence remained at the property throughout the weekend, with forensic officers conducting examinations.
Police have urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances of the incident while their enquiries are ongoing.
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