Community

Wales Wildfire Board urges public to be ‘Wildfire Wise’ after 407% surge in grass fires

Published

1 year ago

June 19, 2025

Public asked to take precautions as wildfires threaten countryside, health, and economy

THE WALES WILDFIRE BOARD is urging people across the country to play their part in protecting the environment as wildfire incidents soar across the nation.

***Fire fighters tackle a fire recent on the Preselis (Image: MWWFRS)***

Between March and May 2025, Fire and Rescue Services across Wales responded to a 407% increase in wildfires compared to the same period last year. In response, the Board is reminding everyone to be #WildfireWise and take simple steps to prevent these devastating blazes during the warmer months.

Andrew Wright, Chair of the Wales Wildfire Board, said: “As the seasons change and warmer weather returns, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors — from camping and staycations to exploring your local area. But we’re asking everyone to respect our countryside and take responsibility for keeping it safe.

“Every year, fire destroys thousands of hectares of countryside, open space, and wildlife habitats. We want to work with our communities to build a healthier, more resilient and biodiverse environment for future generations.”

A growing threat

***There have been a large number of grass fires in Wales in recent years, this one threatened homes in 2022***

The spring and summer months bring heightened risks. Dry grasslands and mountains can quickly ignite, and fires—whether started accidentally or deliberately—can spread rapidly, destroying everything in their path.

While the immediate destruction is visible, the long-term consequences are far-reaching, with serious implications for public health, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.

Andrew Wright continued: “Wildfires are becoming an increasingly severe issue. Not only do they damage land and habitats, but the smoke can travel hundreds of miles, affecting air quality even in areas far from the fire. Vulnerable people, including those with respiratory issues, are especially at risk, with wildfire smoke linked to breathing difficulties, skin and eye irritation, and chest pain.

“The economic costs are also substantial. Beyond firefighting expenses, wildfires disrupt tourism, agriculture, and local businesses. Ecosystems are damaged, biodiversity is lost, and essential habitats are destroyed. Soil erosion, water contamination, and carbon emissions from fires all contribute to long-term climate risks.”

Building resilience

In response, the Wales Wildfire Board is increasing its focus on community preparedness, fire education, and land management.

Efforts are underway to support affected communities and develop innovative strategies to reduce future fire risk, restore damaged ecosystems, and promote sustainable land practices.

“We know more must be done,” said Mr Wright. “We are calling on policymakers, community leaders, and individuals to invest in prevention, recovery, and sustainable solutions. Everyone has a role to play in protecting Wales’ natural beauty and the wellbeing of our communities.”

Get involved

To learn more about wildfire preparedness, support recovery efforts, or find out how you can help, visit the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service website at:
🔗 www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/campaigns-and-consultations/wildfirewise

If you see suspicious activity in the countryside, report it anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

Community

New town map unveiled in Fishguard

Published

16 hours ago

June 23, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A NEW town map has been installed in the heart of Fishguard to help residents and visitors discover more of what the area has to offer.

The map, created by Visit Fishguard & Goodwick’s in-house graphic designer, has been placed on the Abergwaun Hotel tunnel, near Offshore Surfwear’s new shop.

The group said it was “incredibly proud” of the finished result and thanked the building owner for allowing the map to be installed on the premises.

Visit Fishguard & Goodwick is now hoping to create a similar map for Goodwick and is asking for help from a centrally located building owner who may be willing to host it.

Anyone who can help, or knows of a suitable location, is being asked to get in touch with Visit Fishguard & Goodwick.

Community

Tenby Summer Spectacular cancelled amid council row over harbour access

Published

21 hours ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Organisers say popular charity events cannot safely go ahead without clear powers to control crowds

TENBY ROUND TABLE has announced that this summer’s Tenby Summer Spectacular events have been cancelled until further notice amid a dispute with Pembrokeshire County Council over crowd control at the harbour.

The events, which were due to take place on Sunday, August 16 and Sunday, August 30, have been a major feature of Tenby’s summer calendar for decades, drawing large crowds to the harbour for entertainment, food, drink and fireworks.

In a statement, Tenby Round Table said the decision had been made “with enormous sadness” and claimed it had been forced on organisers because of unresolved issues over the safe management of pedestrian access.

The organisation said it needed the council’s Public Realm department to use statutory powers to temporarily restrict pedestrian access through the event area when capacity is reached.

Organisers said the matter had first been raised with the council in September 2025 and again formally in writing in May 2026.

They said volunteers had attended meetings, commissioned professional health and safety consultants and worked on Event Management Plans, but claimed the council had still not provided a clear answer.

Tenby Round Table said: “PCC’s Public Realm department has had nine months to answer one question on safe and controlled access to the harbour. It has not done so.”

The group also alleged that recent written responses from the council contained factual inaccuracies and misleading statements about the relevant legislation.

It added that the council’s legal advice was understood to be provisional and still under internal review.

The cancellation is currently described as provisional, with organisers giving the council a final deadline of June 25 to provide what they describe as a clear, accurate and legally grounded answer.

Tenby Round Table said that if this is provided, it will do everything possible to reinstate the events.

The group said the Summer Spectacular had raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for local charities, sports teams, community groups and worthy individuals since it began.

It said the cancellation would be a devastating blow to those who benefit from the funds raised.

The statement added that organisers are still working with Dyfed-Powys Police and other relevant authorities ahead of a council licensing committee meeting in July, which is expected to consider whether the event licence should be renewed, amended or withdrawn.

The Herald has asked Pembrokeshire County Council for comment.

Community

Haverfordwest lounge praised for charity work

Published

1 day ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A HAVERFORDWEST venue has been praised for raising more than £2,600 for local charities through a series of community events.

Castle Ward county councillor Thomas Tudor visited The Waldo Lounge in Haverfordwest with Henry Tufnell MP, where they met manager Stephanie Davies.

Cllr Tudor said Stephanie had “truly embraced” her role in the community, organising events including a duck race, sports quiz, Mad Hatter’s tea party for Little Loungers, a bake sale and a drag night show.

Together, the events have raised £2,637 for local good causes.

Charities to benefit include The VC Gallery, Tŷ Hafan and Adam’s Bucketful of Hope Cancer Support Centre.

Cllr Tudor said: “It was lovely to introduce Henry Tufnell MP to Stephanie Davies, manager of The Waldo Lounge in Haverfordwest.

“Stephanie has truly embraced her role in the community of Haverfordwest, running many exciting initiatives and raising a staggering £2,637 for local charities.”

The fundraising continues this week, with Rock ’n’ Roll Bingo and a Wild West country and western night featuring a rodeo bull.

Caption: Community support: Thomas Tudor, Stephanie Davies and Henry Tufnell MP outside The Waldo Lounge in Haverfordwest.