Community

Haverfordwest hosts prestigious Sheriffs’ Conference, an ancient civic tradition

Published

8 months ago

September 29, 2024

This weekend, Haverfordwest, one of the two Welsh towns to retain the historic ‘civic’ office of Sheriff, proudly hosted the National Association of City and Town Sheriffs of England and Wales (NACTSEW) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference for 2024. The event, which marks a significant occasion in the town’s calendar, drew past and current Sheriffs from across the nation to celebrate and deliberate on the venerable role of Sheriff, a tradition steeped in history.

The current Sheriff of Haverfordwest, Cllr Jill Owens, who served as Mayor in the previous year, was at the forefront of the weekend’s activities. The town last welcomed the Association back in 2007, making this event a notable return and a festive reunion for many members.

The weekend kicked off on Friday evening at the Cricket Club, where the Town Council, led by Mayor Cllr Martin Lewis, welcomed the Sheriffs and their consorts. The Mayor took the opportunity to express the town’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Association and encouraging membership among past and present Sheriffs.

The main proceedings of the AGM took place at County Hall, followed by cultural tours to the iconic St David’s Cathedral and Pembroke Castle, enriching the visitors’ experience of Welsh heritage. Concurrently, consorts enjoyed exploring local shops and sites, adding a communal and economic boost to Haverfordwest.

A highlight of the gathering was the Gala Evening held at the Wolfscastle Country Hotel, providing a grand setting for the Sheriffs and their guests to dine formally and socialize.

The ceremonial highlight of the weekend was the Sunday Shrieval Service at St Mary’s Church. The Sheriffs, dressed in their ceremonial robes, processed from the Town Council’s offices on Quay Street up to the High Street, a spectacle that invited public participation and celebration. The service was followed by a gathering where attendees enjoyed traditional Welsh Cakes, capturing the spirit of community and heritage.

This year also marks the 40th anniversary of NACTSEW, a testament to the enduring relevance and appeal of the Sheriff’s role in the civic life of English and Welsh communities. The idea for the Association was conceived by the former Sheriff of Gloucester, Andrew Gravells, MBE, who now serves as the Honorary Life President.

As the event concluded, Haverfordwest Town Council extended its gratitude to all who contributed to the successful hosting of the AGM and Conference. The baton passes to Lichfield for 2025, with Haverfordwest setting a high precedent in celebrating the historic and continuing significance of the Sheriff’s office.

Community

Shire horses to visit Canolfan Bethlehem for heritage talk

Published

10 hours ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Special event explores Dyfed Shires’ journey from Pembrokeshire to Horseguards Parade

A PAIR of magnificent Shire horses will be the star attraction at Canolfan Bethlehem in Trefdraeth (Newport, Pembrokeshire) on Wednesday evening, 28 May 2025, as part of a special heritage talk titled The Dyfed Shires Story – From Pembrokeshire to Horseguards Parade.

The popular community talk series at Canolfan Bethlehem continues with a unique opportunity to meet two of the Dyfed Shire horses in person. The horses will be on display on the lawn in front of the chapel from 6:00pm, with the talk itself beginning inside the chapel at 7:00pm.

The evening’s speaker, Mark Cole of Dyfed Shire Horse Farm, will share the story behind the farm’s founding and the remarkable journey that saw its horses selected to appear in ceremonial duties at Horseguards Parade in London.

Canolfan Bethlehem is a thriving community-run centre based in the former Bethlehem Chapel, which was saved at auction in August 2024 thanks to an ambitious local fundraising effort. Supporters raised £146,000 to secure the building for £145,000, transforming it into a Welsh heritage, arts, and culture hub.

The project received vital support from PLANED, the Narberth-based community development organisation. PLANED’s Community Assets Coordinator, Cris Tomos, praised the initiative: “The Canolfan Bethlehem community enterprise shows what can be done when people come together to preserve key assets for future generations. It’s fantastic to see the growing support for these regular talks.”

***Important project:*** *Cris re-opening the doors of the chapel once purchased by local investors.*

Community

Tenby Coaster returns for summer season

Published

10 hours ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Open-top double-decker back on scenic Pembrokeshire route from Sunday

PEMBROKESHIRE’S popular open-top bus service is set to return to the roads this weekend, offering stunning views of the county’s coastline throughout the summer.

The Tenby Coaster, now in its fourth year of service, resumes its route between Tenby and Saundersfoot on Sunday (May 25), following a brief appearance over Easter.

The eye-catching blue and yellow double-decker, operated by First Bus, was the first of its kind to run in Pembrokeshire since the 1990s and has since become a firm favourite with both visitors and locals.

Each day, the bus travels from its Haverfordwest depot to the route’s starting point in Tenby, passing key attractions such as Carew Castle and Manor Wildlife Park—making it possible to enjoy an extended journey for those catching it early or late in the day.

Passengers can hop aboard the Tenby Coaster from the stop by the town walls in Tenby, with First Bus promising “breathtaking views and a scenic descent into Saundersfoot”.

The service will operate daily until September 6, with hop-on, hop-off tickets available for those wanting to explore along the way. Fares match those of other local services, with singles starting at £1.60, returns from £3.04, and group day passes for up to five people available for £17.50.

Contactless payment is accepted via the Tap On Tap Off system, and both Welsh Concessionary Travel Cards and mytravelpass cards are valid on the route.

More information is available at the First Cymru website.

Community

Public invited to explore Pembroke Port at Open Day and Stakeholder Meeting

Published

1 day ago

May 23, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MEMBERS of the public are being invited to go behind the scenes at Pembroke Port as part of a special Open Day and Annual Stakeholder Meeting hosted by the Port of Milford Haven.

The event will take place on Wednesday, 18 June, at Catalina House, Pembroke Dock (SA72 6JD), offering a unique opportunity to discover the inner workings of one of Wales’ busiest ports.

Running from 2:00pm to 6:00pm, the Open Day will include guided bus tours around the site, giving visitors a rare, close-up look at port operations and activities across the facility. Port staff, local business representatives, and partners from across the supply chain will also be on hand to discuss their work and answer questions.

From 6:00pm to 7:30pm, the Port’s Annual Stakeholder Meeting will be held, where attendees will hear updates from the Chair and Chief Executive, meet members of the Board and senior management, and take part in a Q&A session. Questions can be submitted in advance via email to [email protected].

Throughout the day, visitors can explore the wide-ranging roles of the Port of Milford Haven – from commercial marine services and energy sector support to community initiatives and leisure activities. A number of external organisations will also be present, including emergency services, marine experts, and conservation groups highlighting Pembrokeshire’s diverse wildlife.