SENEDD Member Paul Davies has attended the official opening of new accessibility
paths at Haverfordwest Target Shooting Club. The paths have been funded by the
Sports Council for Wales and are designed to enable disability groups to fully access
and enjoy the shooting range, creating an inclusive environment for all. There was
also a demonstration of members’ skills.
 
Mr Davies said, “It was a pleasure to attend the opening of the new paths at the
Shooting Club. It’s great to see the club investing in disability-friendly infrastructure
to make the Club as accessible as possible.”
 
“The Club has over 200 members and it was great to talk to some of them about the
benefits of being a member and how much the Club means to them. I was also
impressed with the demonstration we witnessed, and I sincerely hope the Club
continues to go from strength to strength in the future.”
 
Pictured: David Scheeres, Chairman. Haverfordwest Target Shooting Club – sitting.
Behind Mr Scheeres are Cllr Jon Harvey, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council,
Cllr Martin Lewis, Mayor of Haverfordwest, and Senedd Member Paul Davies.

AS THE NATION continues to recover from the significant impacts of Storm Darragh’s 90mph winds and rainfall (7 and 8 December), Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is continuing the challenging task of assessing the damage to its forests and nature reserves and working hard to restore its sites for visitors to return.

NRW’s land managers have been working hard across Wales to assess the damage to the land in its care, prioritising clearing trees from forest roads that have blocked forest resident access to their homes, and enabling emergency services and utilities to restore power and services to the public.

Early indications are that the impact on the Welsh Government Woodland Estate is significant with large areas of trees fallen in widespread areas across Wales.

Many kilometres of forest roads, walking trails and mountain bike routes are obstructed by fallen trees and branches and it will take time to clear them.

While this important work to restore access to trails continues, people are currently advised not to travel to NRW’s forests and reserves. While visitor centres are re-opening following the storm, people should check NRW’s website before planning a visit as car parks and other facilities may need to be closed at short notice as recovery operations continue.

The recovery work will focus on making sure trails and forest roads are accessible. Visitors should follow any instructions given by signs or local staff, including any trail diversions or closures and beware of the dangers of falling trees and branches.

Gavin Bown, Head of Operations Mid Wales for NRW, said: “Storm Darragh impacted communities right across Wales, with thousands of homes experiencing power cuts, and communities impacted by fallen trees and flooding. Our sympathies go out to those affected.

“The storm has taken a significant toll on the land in our care as well. A huge amount of work went into preparing for and responding to Storm Darragh, and the improved weather this week has allowed us to start the long road to recovery.

“We’re inspecting our sites to assess the damage, and our land managers and contractors are prioritising work to clear blocked roads and trails. But this will take some time. The impacts we have seen will likely affect planned forest and harvesting operations for years to come.

“While we’re undertaking that important work to get your trails back to normal, those who use them for recreation are advised not to travel to our sites at this time.

“We are providing the latest information about the status of specific sites and trails on our website, and on our social media channels. You should always follow any instructions given by signs or local staff including any trail diversions or closures, and beware of the danger of falling trees or branches.”

Information about closures or diversion at NRW’s visitor centres, forests and nature reserves can be found online at https://naturalresources.wales/days-out/places-to-visit/

A FESTIVE convoy of illuminated vehicles brought Christmas cheer to Pembrokeshire on Saturday (Dec 14), as a dazzling display of cars, trucks, tractors, and bikes travelled from Tenby to Narberth.

The annual Christmas Convoy, which began at the Folly Farm overflow car park at 5:30pm, featured over 3 miles of brightly lit vehicles adorned in festive decorations. Participants showcased everything from classic cars to heavy trucks, all decked out in lights, tinsel, and holiday spirit.

Gary Thomas, a spectator, described the spectacle as “unlike anything I’ve ever seen.” He added: “It was over 3 miles long—absolutely amazing to see so many vehicles coming together like this.”

The convoy travelled along a scenic route, passing through Gumfreston, Tenby, Saundersfoot, Kilgetty, and Princess Gate before completing two celebratory laps of Narberth town. Hundreds of spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the colourful procession, cheering on drivers and soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.

Proceeds from the event will go to The Firefighters Charity and other local charities, ensuring the festive fun also helps give back to the community. A prize was awarded for the Best Dressed Vehicle, encouraging participants to go all-out with their festive designs.