News

National spotlight on Tufnell tax row intensifies

Published

1 year ago

December 1, 2024

THE PEMBROKESHIRE HERALD’S recent report on Labour MP Henry Tufnell’s family financial dealings has ignited national media interest. GB News and the Daily Mail have expanded on the story, raising fresh questions about the potential implications of Labour’s proposed inheritance tax changes.

TIMING OF LAND TRANSFER

The controversy centres on the timing of the Tufnell family’s land transfer. On October 10, just 20 days before Labour unveiled new inheritance tax rules affecting farmers, Mark and Jane Tufnell transferred ownership of Upper Colne Farm and Stud to their son, Albermarle. Critics suggest the move could shield the family from millions in future tax liabilities.

Both GB News and the Daily Mail have highlighted the proximity of these transactions to the Budget announcement, questioning whether the Pembrokeshire MP’s family had foreknowledge of the tax changes. While Henry Tufnell’s spokesperson denies any wrongdoing, opponents have branded the actions as “hypocrisy of the highest order.”

UNVEILING FAMILY WEALTH

The latest press coverage has also laid bare – to a national audience – the scale of the Tufnell family’s wealth.

GB News detailed their ownership of the 2,200-acre Calmsden Estate in the Cotswolds, complete with an arboretum, spring-fed swimming pool, and luxury gardens. In addition, the family reportedly owns multiple residential properties on the estate and a £4.4 million Belgravia mews house in London.

The Daily Mail added that Upper Colne Farm controls assets worth over £2 million, including £1.9 million in agricultural land, with Albermarle Tufnell gaining “significant control” over the business.

NEW TRUST RAISES QUESTIONS

Further scrutiny surrounds the creation of the “Tufnell 2024 Settlement” trust on October 24, a week before the Budget announcement. While details of the trust remain unclear, a family source claimed it was established to support future generations. Critics, however, argue the timing casts doubt on its intent.

POLITICAL FALLOUT

The national debate sparked by this case has reignited concerns over Labour’s inheritance tax policy and its impact on the farming community. With Welsh farmers facing increasing financial strain, the disparity between the Tufnell family’s affluence and the average family farm has not gone unnoticed.

As the story develops, the Herald will continue to monitor the unfolding political and public reaction to the Tufnell family’s financial dealings.

Crime

Carmarthen man denies coercive control allegations

Published

47 minutes ago

March 20, 2026

Court Reporter

Defendant remanded in custody ahead of further hearing

A CARMARTHEN man has denied allegations of controlling and coercive behaviour towards his partner during a prolonged period of alleged abuse.

Mark Hanson, aged 51, of no fixed abode but previously linked to Llangunnor Road, Llangunnor, Carmarthen, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for a further case management hearing on Wednesday (Mar 19).

The court heard that Hanson is accused of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship, contrary to Section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015.

It is alleged that between January 1, 2024 and March 12, 2026, at Stackpole, Hanson repeatedly or continuously subjected a female to threats of violence. Prosecutors say the pair were partners at the time, and that the behaviour had a serious effect on the complainant, which Hanson either knew or ought to have known.

Hanson entered a not guilty plea to the charge on March 13.

The court was told that he has been remanded in custody ahead of the next hearing, with magistrates citing concerns that he may commit further offences, including causing injury or fear of injury to a person connected to the case.

Additional information presented to the court indicated that Hanson is currently serving a custodial sentence of two months for breaching a Domestic Violence Protection Order.

The case was adjourned for a further case management hearing, which is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Mar 23) at 10:00am. The hearing is expected to be conducted via video link and is listed for a duration of 20 minutes.

Magistrates Mr A Allison, Mrs J Morris and Mr D England presided over the hearing. The prosecution was led by Sian Vaughan, with Hanson represented by Alaw Harries of DGJ Solicitors.

News

Pembrokeshire’s Muslims gather to celebrate Eid al-Fitr as Ramadan ends

Published

53 minutes ago

March 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MUSLIMS across Pembrokeshire are marking the end of Ramadan with celebrations for Eid al-Fitr, one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar.

Members of the local Muslim community gathered once again at the Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre in Milford Haven on Thursday morning (Mar 20) to pray, share food, and celebrate together following a month of fasting from dawn to sunset.

Eid al-Fitr begins with special morning prayers, before families and friends come together to enjoy meals, exchange gifts, and spend time with loved ones. It is also a time for charity, reflection, and strengthening community ties.

Local businesses, many run by members of the Muslim community, often close or operate reduced hours during the celebrations, as families take time to mark the occasion.

Herald Editor Tom Sinclair, who previously attended Eid celebrations at the centre, said: “It is always a privilege to be invited to such a warm and welcoming event.

“The sense of community is clear to see, and after a month of fasting, it is a real moment of joy for everyone involved.

“Eid Mubarak to all those celebrating across Pembrokeshire.”

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims fast during daylight hours as an act of worship and self-discipline.

The festival is a time of celebration and generosity. People wear new or their best clothes, visit family and friends, and often give to charity to ensure that everyone can take part in the festivities.

Across the world, Eid is celebrated in different ways, but the message remains the same: unity, gratitude, and goodwill.

Crime

Youth, 15, admits assault on police officer in Milford Haven

Published

1 hour ago

March 20, 2026

Court Reporter

A 15-YEAR-OLD has admitted assaulting a police officer during an incident in Milford Haven.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that the offence took place on Saturday (Mar 1), when the youth assaulted Police Constable 573 Evans.

The defendant appeared before magistrates on Wednesday (Mar 19), where a guilty plea to common assault was entered.

The court granted unconditional bail and adjourned the case for sentencing.

The youth is due to appear again at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 2) at 10:00am for sentencing. The hearing is expected to last around 30 minutes.