Grant from Ffilm Cymru Wales helps bring affordable independent cinema to Pembrokeshire

A SEASON of independent films chosen by local audiences is coming to Milford Haven this spring, as the Torch Theatre hosts a special programme designed to celebrate bold storytelling and community cinema.

Running from February through to mid-April, the Community Choices season has been made possible thanks to Wales-wide grant funding from Ffilm Cymru Wales. The scheme supports independent exhibitors to bring diverse and inspiring films to screens across the country.

At the Torch, audiences were invited to take part in programming workshops to help select the titles themselves. The final line-up reflects a mix of Welsh-language work, environmentally themed films and stories that break down social and economic barriers, ensuring something for all tastes.

Chelsey Gillard, the theatre’s Artistic Director, said: “We asked you, the people of Pembrokeshire, what films you wanted to see at the Torch – and we listened. There’s a terrific variety in this season, from family favourites to powerful dramas. We’re very grateful to Ffilm Cymru Wales for the funding that allows us to bring these wonderful films to the big screen, and we look forward to giving everyone a warm Torch welcome.”

The programme opens with Mr Burton on Sunday, February 8 at 4:15pm, followed by Flow on Tuesday, February 17 at 4:45pm. Fantastic Mr Fox screens on February 19 at 4:45pm, with Moonlight closing the month on Friday, February 20 at 6:15pm.

March’s line-up includes Born Free on March 4 at 2:15pm, Earth on March 12 at 11:00am, Sinners on March 15 at 7:00pm, Booksmart on March 22 at 2:00pm, and Gwledd (The Feast) on March 27 at 8:00pm.

The season continues into April with I Swear on April 2 at 2:00pm, One Battle After Another on April 5 at 4:00pm, and This is Spinal Tap on April 12 at 4:00pm, bringing the Community Choices series to a close.

All tickets are priced at £4 and include a free tea or coffee, helping to keep the screenings affordable and accessible for everyone.

For tickets and full details, visit the Torch Theatre website or call the box office on 01646 695267.

As closure looms, campaigners say Meidrim pupils thrive in ‘caring community’ as council consultation raises fears for vulnerable learners

A SMALL village primary school at the heart of rural Carmarthenshire is at the centre of a growing campaign to prevent its closure, with supporters warning that vulnerable children could suffer serious consequences if it shuts.

The Cymdeithas yr Iaith has backed efforts to secure the future of Ysgol Bentre Gymraeg Meidrim, describing small rural schools as “caring communities” that provide vital stability for children with additional needs.

At the centre of the case is pupil Tommy Webber, who lives with Bloom Syndrome — an ultra-rare genetic condition which causes complex medical issues and additional learning needs. He is believed to be the only child in Wales diagnosed with the condition.

Medical professionals have advised the school that continuity, routine and trusted relationships are essential for Tommy’s wellbeing. Any disruption — including changing schools, longer daily travel or unfamiliar staff — could have a negative impact on his health, emotional security and educational progress.

Supporters say the small, close-knit nature of Meidrim has allowed staff to provide consistent, personalised care that would be difficult to replicate elsewhere.

However, Carmarthenshire County Council opened a statutory consultation on Thursday (Jan 16) on proposals to close the school, prompting concern from parents, campaigners and language groups.

Speaking on behalf of the Carmarthen region, Cymdeithas yr Iaith representative Sioned Elin said Tommy’s experience reflects a wider truth about the role of small rural schools.

“Tommy’s story shows how a small school can be a safe haven for children with additional needs,” she said. “Education here is genuinely child-centred, and pupils are supported as part of a caring Welsh-speaking community.

“In the same school there is also a deaf pupil, and the other children have learned some sign language so they can communicate with her. That demonstrates how this kind of environment benefits every child, not just one.”

She added that decisions about closures should not be based solely on budgets or pupil numbers.

“The impact cannot be measured purely in financial terms. The question must be whether any alternative provision can truly meet the needs of children who rely on stability and familiarity every day.”

Campaigners argue that losing the school would not only affect education standards but would also weaken the Welsh language and the social fabric of the village.

A supporting letter from hospital clinicians has been submitted as part of the consultation process.

Residents are now urging the council to recognise the wider value of small rural schools before making a final decision.

Quarterly online reporting to become mandatory for higher earners under HMRC shake-up

MORE than 860,000 sole traders and landlords across the UK are being urged to prepare now for major changes to the way they report tax, with new digital rules coming into force in just two months.

From April 6, thousands of self-employed workers and property landlords earning over £50,000 a year will be required to keep digital records and submit quarterly income updates to HM Revenue & Customs under the Government’s Making Tax Digital scheme.

The changes form part of a wider overhaul designed to modernise the tax system and reduce errors.

Instead of submitting figures once a year, those affected will use approved software to record income and expenses throughout the year and send short quarterly summaries to HMRC. Officials stress these are not extra tax returns, but updates intended to spread the workload and avoid the usual January rush.

Free and paid software options are available, with the system automatically generating the figures needed for submission.

At the end of the tax year, users will still file a Self Assessment return, but most of the information will already be stored digitally.

Craig Ogilvie, HMRC’s Director of Making Tax Digital, said the move should make tax reporting simpler.

He said: “With two months to go until MTD for Income Tax launches, now is the time to act. The system is straightforward and helps reduce errors. Thousands have already tested it successfully.

“Spreading your tax admin throughout the year means avoiding that last-minute scramble to complete a tax return every January.”

More than 12,000 quarterly updates have already been submitted during a voluntary trial.

Phased rollout

The new rules will be introduced gradually:

• From April 2026 – those earning £50,000 or more
• From April 2027 – those earning £30,000 or more
• From April 2028 – those earning £20,000 or more

To ease the transition, HMRC says it will not issue penalty points for late quarterly submissions during the first 12 months.

After that, a points system will apply, with a £200 fine only triggered once four late submissions are reached.

Anyone unable to use digital tools for genuine reasons can apply for an exemption.

Tax agents and accountants are advising clients to prepare early to avoid last-minute problems.

Further guidance, webinars and sign-up details are available via GOV.UK.