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Free access to historic welsh monuments throughout September

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IN a bid to connect the public with Wales’ rich cultural heritage, Cadw has announced the return of its annual Open Doors festival, offering free access to over 200 historic landmarks across the nation throughout September.

This event, part of the broader European Heritage Day initiative, allows the public to explore some of Wales’ most treasured historical sites without charge. The festival provides a unique opportunity to delve into the stories that have shaped the nation, with an array of events, guided tours, and immersive experiences on offer—some for the first time ever.

Significant locations in West Wales participating in the festival include the Dylan Thomas Boathouse, Manorbier Castle, and St Davids Cathedral, among others. Each site will offer special events, ranging from guided tours to exhibitions, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s historical and cultural significance.

Celebrating Heritage and Diversity

Cadw, marking its 40th anniversary this year, sees Open Doors as a highlight of its celebrations. Ffion Reynolds, Cadw’s Heritage and Events Manager, commented: “Open Doors is a chance for us to celebrate the diversity and resilience of Wales’ historic architecture in a way that’s accessible to all. By offering free access to these locations, we hope everyone will have the opportunity to experience the depth of our country’s history and culture and play a role in preserving these places for future generations.”

The festival is not only a celebration of history but also a means of ensuring that the stories and sites that define Wales are accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Highlighted West Wales Events

Manorbier Castle, Tenby (14-15 September, 10am-5pm): Explore the Norman fortress and its serene chapel and gardens, and learn about Gerald of Wales.

Dylan Thomas Boathouse, Laugharne (21-22 September, 10am-5pm): Visit the iconic home of the famed poet and view the Writing Shed where many of his greatest works were penned. Advance booking is required.

Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre (7 September, 11am-3pm): Discover the history of Pembroke Dock through a visit to the heritage centre, Paterchurch, and the Ginkgo Tree.

Other notable sites include Laugharne Castle, St Davids Cathedral, and the Museum of Land and Speed in Pendine, among others.

Visitor Information

Details of all participating locations, event schedules, and ticketing information can be found on Cadw’s website. Visitors are advised to confirm event details, as some locations may require advance booking.

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

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MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

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Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

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Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

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Community

Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office

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Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush

A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.

The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.

Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.

He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”

Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.

The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.

Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.

Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).

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