Previously undiscovered Roman roads unearthed in Pembrokeshire

Published

3 weeks ago

November 4, 2024

Pembrokeshire’s ancient Roman road network is once again coming under the spotlight thanks to a new publication by local historian and architect, Martin Davies.

‘A Few Causeways More’ explores some 90-miles of potential Roman routes extending from Whitesands to Caersws, which is half way between Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury.

The booklet follows hot on the heels of Martin’s previous booklet ‘Ancient Causeways Uncovered’ which was published in 2017, charting the previously undiscovered Roman route from Wiston to Trawscoed.

“Thanks to the support I’ve had from retired Cardigan solicitor John Dyer, we’ve been able to amass new evidence which includes 55 pages, over 100 illustrations, photos, maps, aerial views and cross-section roads,” Martin told The Pembrokeshire Herald.

The publication includes a total of 11 road uncoverings as well as some ‘mystery’ sites and what Martin describes as ‘a very unusual form of concrete’.

One complete route is covered in detail in the Ponterwyd area.

“So much survives in this area, enabling us to see how these roads once appeared in the more arable lowlands, where the name ‘sarn’ or causeway is now all too often just a memory,” he said. “But here, the ‘sarns’ can still be seen and walked on and are illustrated in the booklet.”

Martin, a retired architect, worked for the National Trust in the 1990s supervising the restoration of home farm outbuildings at Llanerchaeron and applying conservation repair techniques. He also ran the project to create Cardigan’s Theatr Mwldan from the remains of the town’s former abattoir.

His first publication followed four years of extensive research and no fewer than eight excavations.

“I’ve purposely avoided producing a book that’s technical or academic, because I want people to experience the thrill of finding new evidence coming over in its pages,” he said.

“The books are written for the lay public by a lay author, and it relies on observation, practical experience and the occasional hard graft with a shovel and a trowel.”

‘A Few Causeways More’ is available in local bookshops including the Victoria Bookshop in Haverfordwest, the Seaways Bookshop, Fishguard, and Awen Teifi, Cardigan. It is priced £10 with all author’s profits being donated to the Paul Sartori Foundation, Haverfordwest.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

3 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

3 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!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

3 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!