Community

Much-loved radio DJ and entertainer Matt Baker passes away

Published

1 year ago

March 17, 2025

TRIBUTES have poured in following the sudden passing of Matt Baker, a well-loved radio DJ, entertainer, and former pub landlord, whose vibrant personality and dedication to music left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Baker, who had a rich and varied career spanning cruise ships, radio, and live entertainment, was known for his infectious energy and ability to bring people together. He spent much of his working life at sea, where he served as a Cruise Director, fostering talent and encouraging performers to take the stage. Many have shared their memories of his support for emerging artists and his ability to read a crowd, ensuring that every event he was part of was filled with ‘goooooood times’—a phrase he was known for.

After his time on the high seas, Baker became a familiar voice on the airwaves, joining Herald Radio before later moving to Pure West Radio. His passion for music extended beyond broadcasting, as he briefly ran The Tiddly, a popular pub near Haverfordwest, which became a hub for local musicians and entertainers. The venue, under his leadership, was a space where talent flourished, and many recall fond memories of late-night sessions filled with laughter, music, and camaraderie.

His impact on the local music scene was immense. Baker was instrumental in promoting up-and-coming artists, offering them opportunities to perform at festivals and gigs. Fellow musicians, DJs, and friends have taken to social media to express their shock and sorrow at his passing.

Leading the tributes, Baker’s mother, Phyllis Oostermeijer, shared her heartbreak: “It’s with a broken heart I have to share with you that Matt has gone on another journey. I know he will kick his heels up and make everyone happy. That was his life, to bring love and Gooodtimes to all.”

Nick Carey described him as “a true legend” who introduced him to talented people and encouraged everyone to perform. Cruise industry colleague DjFly Gertos paid tribute from Saint John, Antigua, recalling their time working together from 2007 to 2009: “I did not lose a boss, I lost a friend.”

Thomas Jordan, a fellow performer, shared: “He was a hell of a showman, performer, and all-round great guy! I had the absolute privilege of playing alongside him for numerous events with the Travelling Tiddlys band. The Pembrokeshire music scene will not be the same.”

Others have remembered his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for musicians, including Gareth Sanders-Swales, who noted that Baker was one of the few who “gave an 8-year-old drummer a chance to play in his open mic nights.”

His time as a Cruise Director also left a significant mark. Many entertainers credited him with helping them advance their careers. Sonia Wingert, a fellow cruise ship entertainer, recalled how Baker played her album on his radio show and remained a supportive friend over the years. “He always played my album on his radio shows back home, so very kind and thoughtful. My heart is broken to hear he has left us so, so young.”

Friends and colleagues from across the globe have shared tributes, remembering Baker for his warm personality, quick wit, and boundless enthusiasm. Whether performing magic tricks, telling jokes, spinning records, or running a bar, he brought joy to those around him.

Jason Fubar, a close friend, summed up the sentiments of many: “Hard words to write here as one of my very good friends passed away this morning. We’ve spent many a mental night together—cruises, nightclubs, and belly laughs all the way along. A truly talented soul, one that lit up a room when he walked in. So many happy and fun memories with you, brother.”

Matt Baker’s passing leaves a void in the music and entertainment world, but his legacy of uplifting others and creating unforgettable moments will endure. His family, friends, and the countless people whose lives he touched will remember him as a man who lived to entertain and bring people together.

Rest in peace, Matt Baker.

Community

First person of colour to be elected mayor of Haverfordwest

Published

4 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A PEMBROKESHIRE town council will soon have its first-ever person of colour as mayor, and its youngest mayor in a century.

Haverfordwest Town Councillor Randell Iziah Thomas-Turner, aged 37, is to become mayor this May.

Cllr Turner said: “Tonight [March 19], I had the honour of accepting the nomination as mayor-elect — a moment that will forever stay with me.

“In doing so, I am humbled to be making history as the first mayor of colour in Haverfordwest and the youngest mayor in a century. This is not just my achievement, it belongs to every person who believes in progress, representation, and the power of community. This is a new chapter for our town — one built on unity, opportunity, and hope.

“My mayor-making will take place this May, and I cannot wait to officially step into the role and begin serving the people of Haverfordwest with pride, passion, and purpose. Haverfordwest is the best in the West — and together, we are just getting started.

“Diversity is not a challenge to overcome, but a strength to embrace. When people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives come together with respect and openness, we unlock new ideas, stronger solutions, and deeper understanding.”

It’s a double celebration for the Thomas-Turner family.

Wife, and fellow town councillor, Dani, has been voted as sheriff of the town for the second-year-running, the first woman to serve as sheriff for two consecutive years.

“The coming civic year will be one to watch as my husband Councillor Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner is becoming the first mayor of colour in Haverfordwest’s history,” said Cllr Dani Thomas-Turner, adding: “It’s going to be a year of history and memory making for sure.”

Community

Kurtz welcomes £4.3m National Lottery boost for local communities

Published

2 days ago

March 19, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SAMUEL Kurtz MS has welcomed more than £4.3 million in National Lottery funding awarded to community projects across Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire since 2021.

Figures released by The National Lottery Community Fund show that £4,318,484 has been distributed through 122 grants in the constituency since the 2021/22 financial year, the same year Mr Kurtz was elected.

The funding has supported a wide range of grassroots charities, voluntary organisations and community groups through programmes including National Lottery Awards for All, offering grants of up to £20,000, and People and Places, which provides larger awards of up to £500,000.

Projects backed locally include mental health support for young people, environmental and sustainability initiatives, community workshops, outdoor wellbeing activities, support for vulnerable adults, and programmes aimed at building skills and confidence.

Among the organisations to benefit is Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, which received £343,584 for its Routes to Discovery project, helping improve mental and physical wellbeing through accessible outdoor activities.

St Davids Diocesan Council for Social Responsibility was awarded £398,078 to deliver its Plant Dewi: Strengthening our Communities initiative, supporting families and local groups.

Other recipients include The VC Gallery, Redberth Croft CIC, The Tenby Project CIC and Neptune’s Army of Rubbish Cleaners, with funding supporting projects ranging from food initiatives and nature-based wellbeing to volunteering and environmental action.

Mr Kurtz said: “Community groups and charities across Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire do incredible work supporting people and strengthening local communities.

“It is fantastic to see more than £4.3 million of National Lottery funding invested in projects that are improving wellbeing, tackling isolation and creating opportunities for people of all ages during my time in office.

“The voluntary sector plays a vital role in our area, and this funding is helping organisations deliver projects that bring people together and make a real difference to people’s lives.”

The National Lottery Community Fund is the largest funder of community activity in Wales, supporting initiatives that bring communities together, promote environmental sustainability, help children and young people thrive, and improve health and wellbeing.

Organisations across Wales can apply for funding through the Awards for All and People and Places programmes to support projects that matter most to their communities.

Further information is available on The National Lottery Community Fund website.

Community

Former Neyland police officer Louis Knight dies aged 83

Published

2 days ago

March 19, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Tributes pour in for former Neyland officer remembered as a “true gentleman” and “local legend”

A FORMER Neyland police officer remembered as a “true gentleman” and “local legend” has died at the age of 83, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across Pembrokeshire.

Louis Knight, of Neyland Hill, Neyland, passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Thursday (Mar 5).

Mr Knight, who served as a police officer in the area for many years, was a familiar and respected figure in Neyland and beyond. In the hours following the announcement of his death, hundreds of messages flooded social media, painting a picture of a man whose impact stretched far beyond his time in uniform.

Many described him simply as “one of the best,” while others called him “a proper local legend” and “a tremendous police officer.”

One resident wrote: “A face and name I will never forget from my youth.”

Another said: “He was a tremendous police officer… a kick up the backside and a word was enough. It stayed with you.”

Others remembered his warmth and humour away from policing.

“He always had a story to tell on the way home in the taxi,” one tribute read, while another added: “Every time you asked him how he was, the answer was always ‘bloody marvellous.’”

Many spoke of his kindness and the time he gave to people.

“Louis was one of the most kindest gentlemen around. Always made time to chat,” one message said.

Another added: “Neyland won’t be the same again.”

While some reflected fondly on a different era of policing, what came through most strongly was the respect Mr Knight earned within his community — something repeatedly highlighted in tributes from those who knew him as children, neighbours, and later as adults.

Mr Knight was the beloved husband of the late Angela, devoted father of Andrew and Alison, and adored father-in-law of Frank. He was also a loving grandfather to Michelle and Laura, and a cherished brother of Jennifer, Charles and Richard.

His family said he was loved dearly and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The funeral service will take place on Wednesday (Apr 1) at 11:30am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Louis, if desired, are for Ward 8 at Withybush Hospital and may be sent directly to the ward at SA61 2PZ.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven (01646 693180).

Photo caption:

PC Louis Knight pictured during a Royal Visit, engaging with local children — a familiar sight in Neyland for many years (Pic: Supplied).