Charity
Rising dog cruelty in Pembrokeshire reflects troubling trend across Wales

THE RSPCA has released alarming new statistics highlighting a disturbing increase in dog cruelty across Wales, marking the third consecutive year of rising cases. Pembrokeshire has not been immune to this troubling trend, with reports of dog cruelty continuing to climb.
According to the RSPCA, there have been 133 reported cases of cruelty to dogs in Pembrokeshire in 2023, a notable increase from the 122 cases in 2022 and 105 in 2021. This rise mirrors a broader surge in cruelty reports across Wales, where the number of incidents has escalated by nearly 1,000 since 2020.
Across the country, the RSPCA handled 13,337 reports of dog cruelty between 2020 and 2023, with 3,876 of those cases occurring in the last year alone. The counties of Rhondda Cynon Taff, Swansea, and Cardiff recorded the highest numbers of reports in 2023, underscoring a widespread issue that spans both rural and urban areas.

Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive of the RSPCA, expressed deep concern over these figures. “It is heartbreaking that more dogs need our help – we need to make a stand against this and say ‘no more,’” he said. Sherwood highlighted the paradox that dogs, often considered “man’s best friend,” are becoming increasingly vulnerable to neglect and abuse.
The situation in Pembrokeshire is a stark reminder that no community is immune to such cruelty. Local RSPCA officers and volunteers are working tirelessly to respond to reports, but the rising numbers are a cause for concern. The charity’s ongoing efforts include public awareness campaigns and appeals for donations to support their work in rescuing and rehabilitating abused animals.
One particularly harrowing case in Newport, involving the discovery of three newborn puppies abandoned in a shoebox, has brought the issue into sharp focus. The puppies, who were found with their umbilical cords still attached, were discovered by a member of the public, sparking an investigation that ultimately reached a tragic but inconclusive end.
The RSPCA’s summer appeal, No Animal Deserves Cruelty, aims to mobilise the public to take action against this disturbing trend. The charity urges anyone who witnesses or suspects animal cruelty to report it immediately. Detailed reports can be made confidentially through the RSPCA’s hotline or website.
As Pembrokeshire and the rest of Wales grapple with this rise in cruelty, the RSPCA continues to push for a kinder world for all animals. With public support, they hope to reverse this worrying trend and ensure that the country’s most vulnerable pets receive the protection and care they deserve.
For those wishing to support the RSPCA’s vital work, donations can be made through their website, and information on reporting cruelty is readily available. The community’s vigilance and compassion will be crucial in tackling this distressing rise in animal abuse.
Charity
Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

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.
Charity
Veterans rally to repair storm damage in Milford Haven

MILFORD HAVEN’S VC Gallery veterans have stepped up to restore a woodland area hit hard by recent high winds.
The Woodlands in Milford suffered significant damage, with fallen trees crashing onto a farmer’s fence, endangering livestock and damaging the enclosure.
In response, a team of veterans, including trustee Mark Shuttleworth, Simon, Steve, and volunteer of the year Donna Evans, was deployed to clear the trees and rebuild the fencing.
The Woodlands project, run by VC Gallery, offers opportunities for people to connect with nature while learning about biodiversity and conservation.

Charity
New charity offers grants to young people in Pembrokeshire

A NEW charity aimed at supporting young people in Pembrokeshire has been established and is now accepting applications for its first round of grants.
The Tenby & County Trust (TACT) was created using funds from the sale of the former Tenby & County Club on The Croft, with the aim of helping young people aged between five and 18 pursue their aspirations.
Trustee David Blackmore explained: “The purpose of TACT is to provide grants that enable young people in Pembrokeshire to follow their ambitions, whether in the creative arts, culture, sports, adventure, science, or languages.”
Substantial investment
Following the sale of the County Club for redevelopment, club members—who were entitled to a share of the proceeds—voted to establish a charity to benefit local youth.
“The money has been invested, and while we are not disclosing the exact amount, it is a considerable six-figure sum,” said Mr Blackmore.
The trust is managed by local trustees, all of whom have either been involved with the former County Club or played significant roles in education within Pembrokeshire.
How to apply
Young people interested in applying for a grant must submit an application via email. This should include the names and email addresses of two supporting sponsors and a statement of no more than 500 words outlining how they would use the funds, including a breakdown of costs.
Grants will be issued quarterly, with the next application deadline set for March 1, 2025. Grants are only available to individuals.
For more information, email [email protected] or visit tenbyandcountytrust.org.
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