Community
Pembrokeshire adventurer cycles nearly 5,000 miles across UK
A 20-YEAR-OLD from Pembrokeshire has completed an extraordinary 4,985-mile cycling adventure, inspired by the growing trend of bike touring videos on YouTube. Rhys Sommerville, from the village of Hook, embarked on his journey in March after feeling unfulfilled by the conventional path he found himself on after finishing his A-levels.
Rhys, who had been working a new job at the age of 19, realised that the routine left him yearning for something more challenging and exhilarating. Drawn to the idea of exploration, he decided to take matters into his own hands and embarked on a solo cycling tour of the United Kingdom.
Packing only the essentials—a lightweight bag containing two changes of clothing, basic camping gear, and even juggling balls for entertainment—Sommerville set off on his adventure, which would last 148 days and take him through every national park in the UK. His route spanned across Wales, England, Scotland, and even the remote Scottish isles.
Throughout his journey, Rhys embraced a variety of accommodation options. He experienced wild camping, stayed with friends and acquaintances, lodged in youth hostels, and utilised the Warmshowers app—a platform that connects long-distance cyclists with hosts offering free accommodation. This mix of experiences added to the richness of his adventure.
Reflecting on the expedition, Rhys revealed that the west coast of Scotland was the highlight of his trip, citing its breathtaking beauty as unforgettable. More than just a physical challenge, the journey was also a deeply personal one, helping him to grow in mental confidence and resilience.
After his return to Pembrokeshire earlier this month, Rhys has resumed his work at a wedding venue near Newport. However, his adventure is far from over. He is now preparing to study computing and software at the Open University, with plans to continue his cycling journeys across Europe upon completing his degree.
Rhys’s story is a testament to the rewards of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing the unknown, proving that sometimes, the road less travelled can lead to the most fulfilling experiences.
Additional reporting by Maya Goodwin
Community
West Wales eco centre honoured with commemorative plaque
A NEW commemorative plaque is set to be unveiled in Newport, Pembrokeshire, celebrating a landmark achievement in the UK’s journey towards sustainable energy. The plaque, located on The Old School building on Lower St Mary Street, marks the site of the first and smallest commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) installation in the UK, which began feeding electricity into the national grid on 11th October 1996.
The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, 5th October 2024, at 2:30 pm, and aims to honour the contributions of the West Wales Eco Centre, a pioneering charity that was once housed in this building. Established in 1980, the Eco Centre played a crucial role in promoting innovative solutions to combat climate change long before they became mainstream.
In addition to installing the groundbreaking solar PV panels, the Centre was instrumental in launching several other forward-thinking initiatives. These included the UK’s first bulk purchase insulation scheme and the establishment of West Wales’ first bottle bank. The Centre was also a hub for environmental education and provided energy advice, helping to raise awareness of climate change challenges. It trained and employed local individuals, empowering them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address environmental issues.
The people of Newport and the wider Pembrokeshire area take great pride in the legacy of the West Wales Eco Centre, which stood at the forefront of environmental activism and education. The plaque serves not just as a marker of past achievements, but as an enduring reminder of the community’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
Following the unveiling, attendees will have the opportunity to meet and thank those who were involved in these pioneering efforts. Tea and cake will be provided at the Golden Lion, bringing the community together in celebration of this significant milestone in the history of sustainable energy in the UK.
Community
UK’s favourite childhood holiday spots include Tenby
NEW research has uncovered the most beloved childhood holiday destinations across the UK, with many Britons returning to their nostalgic haunts well into adulthood.
A survey conducted by holidaycottages.co.uk found that 68% of respondents had revisited their childhood staycation spots as adults, making an average of 4.5 return trips. For over half of those polled, these cherished locations held a special place in their hearts, with 51% describing them as their “happy place”.
Topping the list of favourite childhood destinations was the picturesque Cornish town of St Ives, followed closely by Whitby in North Yorkshire and Weymouth in Dorset.Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, commented: “Our research shows that many of us keep these childhood memories close for life, even bringing our families along for the adventure in the future.”The study also revealed the enduring appeal of these destinations beyond the peak summer season.
In St Ives, visitors can enjoy the town’s artistic heritage at the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Tate St Ives during the quieter months. Whitby comes alive in autumn with its famous goth festival and ghost tours, while Weymouth offers brisk walks along its golden beaches and exploration of the historic Nothe Fort.
Other popular childhood haunts included Tenby in Pembrokeshire, known for its colourful harbour and Blue Flag beaches, and Cromer in Norfolk, famed for its traditional pier and delicious crab dishes.Brixham in Devon and Seahouses in Northumberland rounded out the top destinations, offering family-friendly attractions and opportunities for wildlife spotting even in the off-season.Keary added: “Although the winter seasons can be quieter for some popular destinations, especially seaside towns, the new seasons bring a completely different perspective to the areas, with activities you are likely to experience in the summer months.”This research highlights the lasting impact of childhood holidays on British travellers, with many choosing to recreate fond memories by returning to their favourite spots year after year.
Community
Poignant Lancaster Relic donated to Heritage Centre, honoring local WWII hero
A WARTIME Pembrokeshire airman is especially remembered in this the 80th anniversary year of D-Day thanks to a unique and poignant donation to the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre.
Trevor Hordley of Pembroke Dock was the pilot of a Lancaster bomber shot down over France in July 1944, soon after the D-Day invasion of Occupied Europe. A section of metal from his aircraft was secreted away from the occupying German forces and in 2013 was given to members of Trevor’s family attending commemorative events held annually in the French community of Serifontaine, near Beauvais.
Five of the Lancaster’s crew, including Trevor, are buried in a Beauvais cemetery.
Now, 11 years on, Trevor’s daughter, Christine – who was born after her father was killed – has donated the relic to the Heritage Centre.
Trevor’s niece and nephew, Pauline Cole and Peter Hordley, were joined by family members when they presented the metal section to the Centre’s team on Christine’s behalf.
Efforts are already underway to try and identify where the piece came from on a Lancaster. Plans are to exhibit it alongside an existing information panel telling Trevor Hordley’s story. He was one of over 55,000 Bomber Command aircrew lost on operations in World War II.
The family have also donated the wartime suitcase and other items belonging to Pauline and Peter’s father, Roy Hordley – one of the three brothers who went to war from their home in Pembroke Dock. Only two returned.
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