Community

Work of mental illness charities highlighted

Published

9 years ago

December 17, 2014

Local philanthropist: Mental health issues given a financial boost

A LOCAL Milford campaigner, and Philanthropist, is donating his own money to raise awareness of mental health issues, and the support that is available for those out there who may need it. Hywel Davies has been placing adverts in the local press not funded by the local health charities. The Herald spoke exclusively with Mr Davies, who explained for whom the adverts are intended: “They are for the community to raise awareness of mental health charities and groups that are available for those that have, or have had, mental problems and/ or mental disabilities in the county. I am a volunteer and a year ago I was approached by the late Susan Evans, of Hakin and Mind, to put an advert in the Pembrokeshire Herald so people are aware of what’s available in the County.

I was labelled myself by psychiatrists as having a ‘schizoeffective’ disorder in 1983, and I am chair of ‘Hearing Voices Network Cymru’. Traditionally there is stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health. Help is available and you don’t have to feel alone. There are people available to provide fellowship, companionship, hope and inspiration, so that you can fulfil your potential.

Pembrokeshire Mind is very busy, and at least 25 people come to the Haverfordwest branch daily which is a good response. I also want to target the advertisements in those months when the evenings are dark and the weather is cold, at times when people are more likely to feel depressed and run down, in November, December and January.” He went on to discuss the issue of mental health and people’s awareness of the illness, and what support is available in Pembrokeshire.

“I don’t think enough money is spent on mental health in Pembrokeshire – mental health is regarded as a ‘Cinderella surface’, that is to say it isn’t invested in as fully as it might be so the voluntary sector has to take the lead in raising awareness to combat the stigma and discrimination and what is available in Pembrokeshire.

The charities have websites and also offer fellowship and sometimes employment, and lead the service as a sensitive and humane service. There is also Frame, which is an excellent social award winning enterprise that employs more than 40 people who have had or have mental health problems. There are also paid staff connected to Mind Pembrokeshire. I think that people who hear a voice or voices, that are inaudible to others, are saints, prophets, geniuses etc. or at least have the potential to be, and people who have had or have mental health problems have this potential too, and have something to contribute.

Traditionally, these people are misunderstood or feared. For example, I am a retired teacher and lecturer of Spanish, and between 1987 and 1996 I taught Spanish in Pembrokeshire and contributed positively to the community.” The Herald asked if there should be more education made available for people to understand about mental health, perhaps at school level, to which he responded: “I think that would be a positive way forward to improve people’s emotional intelligence.”

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

14 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

15 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

16 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.