News

Patients coming to ‘real harm’

Published

11 years ago

December 1, 2014

Tom Sinclair

Appointmens system breaking down: many people are losing their
sight because of delayed or cancelled appointments

AT LEAST four people a month are losing their sight in Wales because of delayed and cancelled appointments. In a report commissioned by RNIB Cymru doctors are saying that the appointments system is breaking down and unable to cope with the demand. The report makes a conservative estimate that 48 people a year are losing their sight because of delays in follow up appointments.

An ageing population, more treatment options and an increase in some underlying causes of sight loss, such as diabetes and obesity, have caused an increase in demand for ophthalmology appointments. Targets set by the Welsh Government mean that priority is given to the first appointment which means that patients who need follow up appointments and treatments often have to wait much longer than they should.

In that time their sight can deteriorate rapidly without the appropriate treatment. RNIB Cymru is concerned that systems within the NHS will not allow consultants to prioritise patients according to their clinical need. Hospitals are also failing to accurately record how many patients are losing their sight while waiting for an appointment. Ceri Jackson, Director of RNIB Cymru said, “It is a scandal that so many people are losing their sight because of delayed or cancelled appointments and that only one health board in Wales could tell us how many people had lost their sight.

Pressure to meet waiting time targets for new patients is putting vital follow up appointments at risk. Welsh Government and Health Boards need to undertake a comprehensive review of capacity and demand and to take immediate steps to clear the backlog of patients waiting to be seen by ophthalmology services.” RNIB Cymru wants to see new systems put in place to ensure eye clinics have the appropriate information to prioritise appointments in line with clinical need and not waiting time targets. It is also of vital importance that patients are informed of the risks to their sight if their appointments are delayed or cancelled.

Investment is also needed in IT systems in order to develop innovative solutions, such as virtual clinics. The President of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, Professor Caroline MacEwen said, “This report highlights an area of grave concern, in that patients who are within the health care system are being lost and coming to harm. There is a pressing need to protect follow up patients who have known eye diseases with a waiting time “target”, just as applies to new patients, coupled with the collection of accurate data on such delays. The prevention of avoidable sight loss should be an area of priority for all involved in eyecare.”

Community

Three Amigos Easter Run roars through Pembrokeshire

Published

34 minutes ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MOTORCYCLE enthusiasts turned out in force today (Saturday, March 28) as the popular Three Amigos Easter Run returned to the roads of Pembrokeshire.

The annual ride, now a firm favourite in the local biking calendar, saw a colourful convoy of motorbikes travel through towns and countryside, drawing crowds of spectators along the route.

Riders of all ages and backgrounds took part, with everything from classic machines to modern superbikes on display. Many participants embraced the Easter theme, with bikes decorated and riders donning festive outfits, adding to the atmosphere of the day.

The event is not only a celebration of the region’s strong motorcycling community but also an opportunity to bring people together, with families lining the streets to watch the procession pass through.

Organisers said the run once again highlighted the camaraderie among bikers and the support the event receives from local communities.

One rider said: “It’s a brilliant day every year. The turnout has been fantastic, and it’s great to see so many people out supporting us.”

The Three Amigos Easter Run has grown steadily in popularity, becoming a key date in the Easter weekend calendar and a showcase for Pembrokeshire’s vibrant biking scene.

With fine weather and strong attendance, this year’s event is expected to be remembered as one of the best yet.

Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald

Community

Classic car show returns to Carew airfield this summer

Published

46 minutes ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hundreds of vehicles, family attractions and local traders set for popular annual event

THE PEMBROKESHIRE CLASSIC CAR CLUB will once again bring a spectacular display of vintage motoring to Carew Airfield this summer, as its annual show returns on Saturday (June 6).

The much-anticipated event, running from 10:00am to 3:00pm, is expected to attract large crowds from across Pembrokeshire and beyond, with organisers promising a full day of entertainment for all ages.

Hundreds of classic cars will be on display, ranging from iconic British models to American classics, offering enthusiasts the chance to get up close to some of the finest vehicles on the road.

Alongside the cars, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions including craft stalls, food vendors, trade stands and free face painting for children, making it a popular day out for families.

The event will take place at Carew Airfield, a location well known for hosting large-scale gatherings, with easy access and ample space for exhibitors and visitors alike.

Organisers are encouraging car owners, traders and exhibitors to get involved, with applications now open for those wishing to showcase vehicles or run stalls on the day.

Admission prices have been kept affordable, with family tickets priced at £10, while adults and OAPs pay £5 and children £3. Both cash and card payments will be accepted.

A spokesperson for the club said the show continues to grow year on year, adding: “It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together, celebrate classic cars, and support local traders in a fantastic setting.”

For exhibitor and trade enquiries, contact [email protected]. Stall holders and car boot sellers can apply via [email protected].

Community

Residents evacuated after Carmarthenshire fire as investigation continues

Published

1 hour ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES remain at the scene of a serious property fire in Kidwelly as investigations continue and efforts are made to make the building safe.

The fire broke out on Lady Street in the early hours of Tuesday (March 24), prompting a multi-agency response involving Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Carmarthenshire County Council.

As a precaution, neighbouring properties were evacuated due to safety concerns, with residents temporarily displaced while the structural integrity of the affected building is assessed.

Safety work underway

Contractors were due to begin work at 9:00am on Thursday (March 27) to stabilise the structure and allow investigators to safely access the site. Authorities say the priority is to ensure the building is secure so residents can return to their homes as soon as possible.

However, officials have stressed that this will not happen until the site is deemed safe.

Lady Street remains closed while the work is carried out, with disruption expected to continue in the area.

Appeal for information

Police have thanked the local community for their patience and support during the ongoing incident.

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage recorded between 11:00pm on Monday (March 23) and 4:00am on Tuesday (March 24).

Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.