News

Potential travel disruption on Severn Tunnel route between Wales and England

Published

3 months ago

August 24, 2024

TRAVELLERS between Wales and England may face further disruptions this weekend due to ongoing repair works on the Severn Tunnel, a critical transport link between the two nations.

The essential maintenance on the Severn Tunnel is scheduled to continue throughout Sunday, 25th August, with engineers expected to remain on site until the work is complete. In light of these repairs, a limited replacement bus service has been arranged, and passengers are advised to consider alternative routes, particularly via Gloucester, where train services continue to operate.

Network Rail has urged all passengers to check their travel plans in advance to avoid inconvenience.

The focus of these repairs is the overhead conductor rail, which is crucial for powering the electric trains that run through the tunnel. Today, limited bus services are operating between Bristol Parkway and the Severn Tunnel Junction, with a full replacement bus service set to run between Bristol Parkway and Newport on Sunday.

This weekend’s disruption follows a similar closure earlier this summer when track repairs were carried out on the South Wales side of the route from 3rd to 18th July.

The ongoing works include compacting the ballast—the stones that support the tracks—inside the tunnel using a specialised tamping machine. This is in addition to the essential maintenance of the overhead conductor rail, ensuring that trains continue to run safely and efficiently.

This project marks the final phase of a larger track upgrade inside the tunnel completed in July. It is a critical step that will secure the new ballast, providing long-term support for the tracks.

Network Rail Wales has expressed gratitude to passengers for their patience during this period of disruption. Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders Route Director, praised the dedication and expertise of the Network Rail teams and their contractors, who have worked tirelessly under challenging conditions to deliver the largest track replacement in the tunnel for many years.

“We are committed to providing low-carbon, reliable rail transport between South Wales and England, and this major track renewal on such a busy route is a significant part of that commitment,” Millington said.

Normal train services are expected to resume along the route on Monday.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

8 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

21 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

21 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!