News
Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards 2024 celebrating helpers across the county
VOLUNTEERS across Pembrokeshire were honoured at a gala dinner and awards ceremony held on November 28 at The Queen’s Hall, Narberth. The event, organised by PAVS (Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services) and supported by South Hook LNG, showcased the extraordinary efforts of local volunteers.
The Queen’s Hall provided a stunning setting for the evening, with decorations prepared by the venue’s team alongside PAVS staff. Around 80 volunteers and their guests enjoyed a meal by Block and Barrel, followed by a captivating performance by the Preseli Voices Community Choir.
Seven awards categories celebrated
The ceremony featured seven award categories, each highlighting the dedication of Pembrokeshire’s volunteers. Jessica Bickerton, Chief Officer of PAVS, introduced the finalists, praising their outstanding contributions to their communities.
Mariam Dalziel, South Hook LNG’s PR Manager, said: “Congratulations to all nominees. To be a part of these awards is to be part of something incredibly special, celebrating the tremendous effort of volunteers across our county. At South Hook, we are proud to continue our support for these awards, working with PAVS to highlight the positive impact volunteering brings to our community.”
Special guest presenters handed out each award, with winners later sharing their inspiring stories in interviews with Toby Ellis of Pure West Radio. These stories are available on the radio station’s website.
Winners and finalists
Young Volunteer (under 25)
- Winner: Zoe Jones – POINT Youth Centre
- Highly Commended: Charlie Evans – Milford Youth Matters
- Presented by: Anna Mullarkey, Stakeholder Engagement & Communications Manager, Port of Milford Haven
Mike Beckett Award (youth group aged under 25)
- Winners: POINT Youth Forum
- Highly Commended: Youth Ambassador Team – Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity
- Presented by: Gwen Beckett
Trustee/Board Award
- Winners: Andrea Farmer and Isobel Hall – Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity
- Highly Commended: Julie Fulton – Pembrokeshire People First
- Presented by: Claire Incledon, Chair of Trustees, PAVS
Long Service Award
- Winner: Paul Guisbourne-Hilton – Various charities
- Highly Commended: Julie Fulton – Pembrokeshire People First
- Commended: Kathleen Llewellyn – Paul Sartori Foundation
- Presented by: Cllr Marc Tierney
Individual Over 25
- Winner: Sue Canham – Royal Voluntary Service
- Highly Commended: Nadine Farmer – Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity; Neil Houghton – Redberth Croft CIC
- Commended: Cerian Goodbourn – Sea Trust Wales; Valerie Harrold – Paul Sartori Foundation
- Presented by: Neil Wooding, Chair, Hywel Dda University Health Board and WCVA
Mary Sigley Award
- Winner: David Bundock – Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority
- Highly Commended: Paul Guisbourne-Hilton – Various charities
- Presented by: Tom Dyer, Pure West Radio
Group Over 25
- Winner: ‘Found it @ Frame’ Volunteers
- Highly Commended: Esteam Volunteers
- Commended: West Wales Walking for Wellbeing
- Presented by: Mariam Dalziel, South Hook LNG
For more information about volunteering in Pembrokeshire, contact [email protected] or call PAVS at 01437 769722. Details are also available at www.pavs.org.uk.
Uplifting performances, heartwarming stories, and the celebration of remarkable individuals made this year’s event a memorable tribute to Pembrokeshire’s volunteers.
News
Storm cleanup update: Roads, power, and services
EFFORTS to clear the aftermath of recent storms across Pembrokeshire continue, with teams working tirelessly to reopen roads, restore power, and ensure public safety. Pembrokeshire County Council has issued updates as of noon, outlining progress and ongoing challenges.
Prioritising key routes
The focus remains on reopening A and B roads vital for emergency services and transport. While many obstructions have been cleared, several roads remain closed due to hazardous conditions. Contractors are deployed to address dangerous trees and other debris.
Roads still closed:
- B4329 (Cardigan Road by North Court Farm): A large tree has been removed, but the road remains closed due to a dangerous tree awaiting assessment.
- B4329 (Woodstock to New Inn): Closure continues as contractors work to clear the area.
- B4327 (Hasguard Cross): This road will stay closed indefinitely while a contractor is deployed.
- Boncath to New Chapel: A dangerous tree on private land is delaying clearance.
Roads Cleared or Reopened:
- Mathry, Glenover Field (Haverfordwest), and Puffin Potatoes (Withybush): Cleared of fallen trees.
- Wisemans Bridge to Coppet Hall: Cleared, with road closure signs removed.
- B4341 (Broadway at Broad Haven): Reopened after clearance work.
Ongoing Challenges
Numerous roads are still under assessment or awaiting contractor deployment, including:
- Lower Quay Road (Hook): Clearance in progress by private owners.
- Barnlake Point: Four large conifer trees blocking the road are being addressed.
- Clarbeston Road to Spittal Cross: Teams are en route for clearance.
- Tree down between Parrog and Feidr Brenin (Newport): A large conifer is blocking access to properties; contractors are handling the task.
Power and Utilities
As of this morning, 7,183 properties remain without power, with National Grid deploying additional resources. Residents in the Tegryn area are also experiencing water supply issues, and Welsh Water is involved in resolving the matter. Leisure centres in St Davids and Crymych are open to provide warm spaces for those affected by outages.
Community Support
The council has expressed gratitude for the community’s assistance in clearing debris. Road sweepers have started work, and contractors are prioritising schools and emergency infrastructure.
Leisure and Waste Services
Most facilities remain operational, though Fishguard Leisure Centre is closed due to storm damage. Waste recycling centres are open, but Scolton Manor and Parc Gwyn Crematorium are temporarily shut.
Advice to Residents
A yellow wind warning remains in effect. Drivers are urged to exercise caution as debris may still be present on roads. For emergency hazards, residents can call the council’s out-of-hours number: 0345 601 5522.
The Herald will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
Entertainment
Choir brings Christmas cheer to Pembroke Castle
COLOURFUL choristers filled Pembroke Castle with festive spirit during its Christmas Fayre on Saturday, November 30.
Dressed in an array of Christmas jumpers, ties, and Santa hats, the Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir delighted visitors with a programme of 12 songs, complemented by leading several beloved carols.
Musical Director Juliet Rossiter conducted the choir, ensuring their performance ran smoothly. Accompanying them for the second time was the Rev William Lambert, the choir’s new accompanist who has quickly become a valued addition.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, two members of Cor Meibion De Cymru joined the choir on stage for a rousing rendition of American Trilogy, marking a memorable conclusion to their set.
As 2024 draws to a close, the choir plans to bring joy to three local residential homes before taking a well-earned break. Practices will resume in January, and new members are warmly encouraged to join.
Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays at 7:00pm at St Teilo’s Church Hall, Pembroke Dock. Interested singers can contact Choir Secretary Dave Powell on 07572 080401.
PICTURED: Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir on stage at Pembroke Castle’s Christmas Fayre. (Picture: P&DMVC)
News
Storm Darragh leaves its mark on West Wales as major incident declared
DYFED-POWYS POLICE declared a major incident across the counties of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and Powys on Saturday afternoon (Dec 7) in response to significant disruption caused by Storm Darragh.
While the worst of the storm has now passed, the aftermath continues to affect communities in the region, with emergency services urging residents to exercise caution.
Superintendent Chris Neve addressed the public earlier today, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the coordinated efforts underway. He stated: “I have this morning declared a major incident for the counties of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and Powys, which means that together with our partners, we can call on the resources we need to respond to the challenges brought by Storm Darragh. I’d like to reassure the public that at this time, Dyfed-Powys Police is still able to respond to priority calls for service. The safety of the public remains our top priority and I am urging everyone to take the warnings that have been issued seriously.”
Although the red weather warning has now lapsed, the force continues to deal with high volumes of calls related to storm damage. Fallen trees, power outages, and hazardous road conditions remain a concern. Residents are being reminded to travel only if absolutely necessary and to follow safety precautions, including allowing extra time for journeys, increasing following distances, and reducing speed.
Safety and support services
Authorities have provided a list of resources and contacts to assist residents during this period of recovery:
- Travel Updates: Follow @TrafficWalesN and @TrafficWalesS for real-time information.
- Weather Forecasts: Monitor @metoffice for updates.
- Flood Alerts: Check @NatResWales or visit the Natural Resources Wales website.
- Power Issues: Report power cuts or damaged lines by calling 105.
- Fallen Trees: Report obstructions through your local council’s website.
NHS Advice
If you feel unwell, NHS 111 Wales offers an online symptom checker and advice. For urgent but non-emergency medical assistance, call 111. In life-threatening situations, dial 999.
Community spirit appreciated
Superintendent Neve expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation, stating: “I’d like to thank our communities for their support at this time, and once again ask that you avoid unnecessary travel and follow all official advice to stay safe.”
As the region begins to recover, authorities and emergency services remain vigilant, working tirelessly to restore normality and ensure public safety.
Cover photo: St Patrick’s Hill Pembroke Dock (Image: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
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