Community
Jill Evans backs Community Centre
A NEW community centre for North Pembrokeshire was officially opened on Saturday (Nov 1) by Plaid Cymru MEP Jill Evans. The new £600,000 Canolfan Clydau provides a focal point for local communities, business and visitors alike. The innovative and vibrant new development for the ward of Clydau, includes a main hall, kitchen, office space, conference facilities, free Wi- Fi, an online booking system and a state of the art remote entry system – the centre can also be administered from the comfort of an armchair using an iPad or a computer, no need for the old lock or key! The project received funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013, which is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.
The centre was commissioned to address the publication of ‘One Wales’ in 2007, the Welsh Government commissioned research into issues affecting ‘deep rural’ areas of Wales. The research explored how residents experience life in ‘deep rural’ parts of Wales focusing on service provision and featured the Clydau ward. Ultimately it aimed to bring long-term sustainability to rural communities. The site was chosen in response to a County Council study on the needs of the most isolated rural areas of the county. Jill Evans MEP said: “As a Member of the European Parliament for all Wales, it was an honour to open Canolfan Clydau, especially as European funding has played a crucial part in making the community centre a reality.
European funding is very important to Wales – to west Wales in particular, and I was pleased that a new £2 billion pound deal was finally agreed this week. It’s important to remember that Wales is a net beneficiary of European money – and this wonderful building is an excellent example of the money being put to good use. The One Wales Government, which included Plaid Cymru, ensured that the interests of so-called ‘deep rural’ areas were not forgotten. It’s important for people to work together in the best interests of their community. And that is why I was so pleased to hear about the community aspects of this project – like being leased to the community, and hosting the village Post Office twice a week.
I am pleased to see new technology being employed – whether that is solar power, using the roof of the centre, or the internet being used to make bookings. I have long believed that through working together we achieve more. The building is already a hive of activity which is proof of this.” County Councillor Rod Bowen, who represents the Clydau Ward, said: “The centre is truly a multipurpose space that can be used for almost any community activity, private event, business or party.” He continued: “This is a fantastic first class Hi-Tec facility the set in heart of Clydau – a wonderful community centre for everyone to enjoy with facilities that are second to none.
The centre is also committed to supporting business growth and offers space for people who wish to develop business ideas, an essential catalyst for the creation of new companies and job opportunities.” Cllr Bowen also thanked Jill Evans MEP for officially opening the centre, staff from the County Council and the trustees of the centre who he said had worked tirelessly in bringing the project to fruition.
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.
Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.
The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.
Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.
Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.
As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.
For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.
With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.
At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.
The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”
With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.
Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.
Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.
Community
Train disruption expected due to essential works at Clarbeston Road
PASSENGERS are being asked to check before they travel between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour next week when Network Rail will be carrying out essential work on the platforms at Clarbeston Road station.
Buses will replace trains at all stops between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour on the West Wales lines from Saturday to Tuesday 27-30 April inclusive.
Network Rail engineers will be working at Clarbeston Road station, preparing the platforms to be able to accommodate new Class 197 trains.
The work will include lowering the platforms by removing the coping stones on the platform edge, altering walls, installing new coping stones, and finally laying new tarmac surfacing.
Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director, said: “These essential works will prepare Clarbeston Road station to accommodate the new Class 197 trains our colleagues at TfW are introducing.
“We’re grateful to passengers and local residents living near Clarbeston Road station for their patience and understanding while we carry out this important work.”
The line between Carmarthen and Milford Haven will also be shut all day on Sunday 12 May and Sunday 19 May, when buses will again replace trains, as Network Rail engineers carry out essential track renewals on a 100-metre stretch of track near Haverfordwest station.
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