News

Scale of fox cub hunting at Welsh hunts revealed

Published

2 weeks ago

November 11, 2024

NEW figures released today by the League Against Cruel Sports expose the widespread practice of fox cub hunting in Wales this autumn, despite a ban on fox hunting that has been in place for nearly 20 years.

Cub hunting, a practice in which hounds are trained to kill by targeting young foxes, is a prelude to the main fox hunting season. The League’s data reveals a disturbing pattern of nine foxes seen being pursued, 11 cases of suspected illegal cub hunting, and 33 reports of hunts causing disorder in Welsh rural communities between August 1 and October 31, 2024.

The Flint and Denbigh Hunt stands out as a major offender, with reports indicating that its members chased seven foxes, engaged in nine suspected illegal hunts, and caused community disturbances on 21 occasions – the highest numbers recorded across the UK.

John Petrie, Senior Campaigns Manager for the League Against Cruel Sports, stated: “As we approach the 20th anniversary of the Hunting Act, these figures underscore the urgent need to strengthen the law. Allowing hounds to pursue and kill fox cubs in the Welsh countryside is abhorrent to most of the public. The law needs revision to eliminate exemptions, outlaw ‘trail hunting,’ and introduce custodial sentences for serious hunting crimes.”

Incidents categorized as suspected illegal cub hunting include instances where foxes were visibly pursued by hounds, signs of hounds marking foxes that have gone to ground, and cases where terriers were used to flush out foxes from underground dens.

Reports of “hunt havoc” include hounds straying onto roads, livestock harassment, damage to badger setts, pet attacks, and other wildlife disturbances. According to the League, if hunts were truly following pre-laid trails as claimed, none of these incidents would occur.

Data for both England and Wales highlights a total of 106 fox chases, 127 suspected cub hunts, and 315 cases of rural havoc caused by hunts, with the Flint and Denbigh Hunt ranking as the third worst offender across both nations.

John Petrie added: “Fox hunting continues, effectively unchanged, despite the ban. We urge the UK Government to make this fox hunting season the last, bringing an end to cub hunting for good.”

To report animal cruelty, contact the League’s Animal Crimewatch service at 0300 444 1234, via email at [email protected], or WhatsApp at 0755 278 8247.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

7 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

7 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

7 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!