Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

News

Withybush: Midwife unit nears completion

Published

on

Meet the team: Withybush Hospital’s Midwife Led Unit • Mark Griffiths

Meet the team: Withybush Hospital’s Midwife Led Unit • Mark Griffiths

WITHYBUSH HOSPITAL’S Midwife Led Unit opened on Monday (Nov 10). Following the controversial introduction of midwifery led care in August, building works have ongoing within the maternity ward to provide a modern and purpose designed facility to mums who want to deliver in a homely and relaxed atmosphere. Catherine Cotter, Head of Midwifery and Women’s Health said: “It will be wonderful for our midwives and mums alike to start using this modern facility on Monday. It has been designed with comfort and relaxation in mind whilst providing an environment that caters for the needs of mums, partners and families. I’d like to pass on my personal thanks to everyone who has contributed over the past few months; many members of staff from numerous different teams have come together.

I would like to recognise all who have played their part, in particular our estates and hotel services teams for their dedication and hard work, all staff working within the Midwife Led Unit and BAM Construction.” From Monday (Nov 10), mumsto- be booked in to give birth at Withybush’s Midwife Led Unit will have access to three birthing suites with a dedicated birthing pool room, each complete with mood lighting and en-suite facilities. Despite a campaign by the board to put the changes in a positive light, the end of consultant-led obstetric care at Withybush has caused – and continues to cause – disquiet among expectant mums. While the record of births provided by the local authority records two births delivered in transit since August (one in an ambulance, the other in a private car), considerable concerns still exist about the present transport provision (one ambulance, not fitted with specialist equipment) between Withybush and West Wales General Hospital, Carmarthen.

However, in a first in Wales, close team-working has been facilitated at Withybush by the location of the specialist ambulance team within the midwife-led unit and unit staff are keen to point out that the unit aims to provide a home away from home for expectant mums. In a letter to one Pembrokeshire resident, Welsh Health Minister Mark Drakeford claimed he would commission: “An independent evaluation of the impact of the revised neonatal services on newborn outcomes and patient experiences in twelve months’ time.” The Health Minister’s promise has been greeted with scepticism as to whether, as with other consultations and processes led by the Welsh Government, the terms of reference for such an evaluation will be skewed to deliver the results the Welsh Government wants. With two thirds of Pembrokeshire’s mums expected to deliver their children in Carmarthen, current expectant mothers will be relieved to find out that there is yet to be an emergency transfer between Haverfordwest and West Wales General Hospital. Apart from providing services at the point of delivery, the unit will also provide breast-feeding support, classes on active birth and pre and post natal support to Pembrokeshire mothers.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

on

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.

Continue Reading

Community2 hours ago

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...

Community3 hours ago

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...

News4 hours ago

Council secures injunction to order removal of waste and scrap

A PEMBROKESHIRE man must remove abandoned cars, scrap and other waste from his land within weeks or face a potential...

Community1 day ago

Suspected explosive device found on west Wales beach

NEW QUAY Coastguard Rescue Team were tasked at 03:50 this morning following a report of suspected washed up Ordnance on...

Crime1 day ago

Teenage girl in court charged with three counts of attempted murder

A 13-YEAR-OLD appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court this morning, in connection to the incident at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman on Wednesday....

Crime2 days ago

All three school stabbing victims discharged from hospital, police confirm

POLICE remain at Ysgol Dyffryn Amman today, following an incident yesterday in which three people were injured, Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed...

Crime3 days ago

Pembrokeshire pensioner accused of 17 sexual offences against children

A 72-YEAR-OLD Pembrokeshire man has appeared before magistrates charged with 17 sexual offences against children under the age of 14....

News3 days ago

Police and air ambulances at ‘serious incident’ at West Wales school

DYFED POWYS POLICE has said it is dealing with an incident at a west Wales school. There has been a...

News4 days ago

Haverfordwest interchange: Next stage of £19m project backed

The second stage of building Haverfordwest’s near-£19m transport interchange has been backed, with senior councillors hearing it could cost the...

News1 week ago

20mph U-turn: Some roads will return to 30mph following public outcry

IN a recent shift in policy, Transport Secretary Ken Skates announced that some roads in Wales will revert to a...

Popular This Week