News

Council improves digital connectivity at residential homes and sheltered housing

Published

3 months ago

September 5, 2024

CARMARTHENSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has recently funded a programme of work to enhance digital connectivity in the county’s 20 sheltered housing schemes and 7 residential homes.

The £1.2 million investment has enabled the installation of superfast fibre circuits at each site, accompanied by internal and external wi-fi networks to provide fast internet access to residents, staff and visitors.

The project has made a significant difference to residents living in Council owned residential homes and sheltered housing schemes, enabling them to contact family and friends more easily and at any time. It also provides opportunities for more diverse and flexible activities to take place within the homes.

Awel Tywi Residential Home in Ffairfach, Llandeilo was one of the first to experience the benefits of the upgrades.

Steven Bird, Manager of Awel Tywi said: “The transformation for both staff and residents has been remarkable. Previously, they were unable to use FaceTime to communicate with and see relatives due to the poor connection. Broadband access was slow and only available in certain rooms.
Now, connectivity spans the entire building and even extends into the garden! Everyone can simultaneously use the access without constraints, accessing laptops, smartphones, Netflix, WhatsApp, and all the modern digital conveniences we now rely on.”

Cllr Linda Davies Evans, Cabinet Member for Homes said: “I’m delighted that the Council’s investment has enabled residents in our Sheltered Housing schemes and Residential Homes to stay better connected with family and friends as well as enabling them to take advantage of the many benefits of this technology in their day to day lives.”

Cllr Jane Tremlett, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Services said: “The upgrades to digital connectivity in every Council-owned Residential Home and Sheltered Housing scheme in Carmarthenshire will transform the lives of residents and encourage them to make use of technology.”

Crime

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

Published

5 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

18 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

18 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!