PLANS to deliver a new Banking Hub in Pembroke Dock are moving forward, following a key meeting between local representatives and Cash Access UK.

Samuel Kurtz MS met with Cash Access UK Regional Manager Debbie Crow on Wednesday (Mar 19), alongside community representatives, to discuss the next steps after confirmation last week that the campaign for a hub had been successful.

The new facility is expected to be up and running within 12 weeks, providing vital access to banking services for residents, businesses and community groups across Pembroke Dock and the wider South Pembrokeshire area.

Banking Hubs offer a shared space where customers can carry out everyday transactions such as cash withdrawals and deposits, as well as access face-to-face support from individual banks on designated days.

The development follows the closure of the last bank branch in Pembroke Dock, which had raised concerns about access to essential financial services in the area. Samuel Kurtz has been working with LINK, local businesses and community groups to secure the new hub.

Discussions at the meeting focused on identifying a suitable location and ensuring the service meets the needs of those who continue to rely heavily on cash.

Following strong public interest in the project, Mr Kurtz has confirmed he will hold a series of drop-in sessions in Pembroke and Pembroke Dock to update residents and answer questions.

Samuel Kurtz MS said: “Last week’s news that the campaign for a Banking Hub in Pembroke Dock had been successful was incredibly welcome for our community.

“Access to cash and face-to-face banking services remains vital for many residents, charities and local businesses across the area. I have already been inundated with questions from people wanting to know what happens next.

“That’s why I will be holding drop-in sessions in both Pembroke and Pembroke Dock so residents and businesses can come along, ask questions and hear the latest updates.

“I was pleased to meet with Cash Access UK’s Regional Manager to discuss the next steps, and I will continue working closely with local stakeholders to help ensure the hub is delivered as quickly as possible.”

Further details about the drop-in sessions are expected to be announced shortly.

Haverfordwest student among those recognised as Wales celebrates rising talent

TALENTED learners from across Wales have been recognised for their skills and dedication at this year’s Skills Competition Wales awards – with Pembrokeshire among those celebrating success.

The awards ceremony, held at Rhyl Pavilion on Wednesday (Mar 18), saw 287 competitors honoured following months of regional contests. In total, 97 gold, 94 silver and 95 bronze medals were awarded, highlighting the strength of technical education across the country.

More than 1,100 learners took part in this year’s competition programme, which continues to expand in line with the needs of the Welsh economy. A total of 65 competitions were held – six more than last year – including new categories focused on sustainability, enterprise and inclusive skills development.

Participation also increased, with 1,168 learners competing overall. This included 223 learners in inclusive competitions – an 11.5% rise – alongside a 7% increase in mainstream entrants.

Among those recognised was Bethany Price, 17, from Haverfordwest (pictured), who achieved a Highly Commended award in Metal Fabrication (Lead Work).

Bethany, who studies at Pembrokeshire College, said the experience had boosted both her skills and confidence.

She said: “Taking part in skills competitions has given me so many skills I wouldn’t have gained otherwise – from the overall experience to the tips and techniques I’ve learned from my tutors.

“I’m already using those skills in my day-to-day work, and it’s helped me feel more confident when speaking to new people and working under pressure.

“Just taking part has been amazing and has given me a real edge on my CV. I’m really proud to have achieved a Highly Commended medal, especially as a full-time learner competing against apprentices.”

The competition is delivered through the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project and funded by the Welsh Government. It provides a pathway for learners to progress to national and international stages, including WorldSkills UK, EuroSkills and WorldSkills International.

Paul Evans, Project Director, said the standard this year reflected growing strength across multiple sectors.

He said: “The depth of talent continues to grow year on year. From first-time competitors to those progressing to international pathways, learners across Wales are demonstrating real excellence.

“We’ve expanded the programme to include new categories and more inclusive formats, ensuring learners of all abilities have the opportunity to showcase what they can achieve.”

Welsh Government Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant, added: “These competitions highlight the strength of Wales’ skills system and its close links with industry.

“They help learners develop not only technical ability, but also teamwork, confidence and problem-solving skills – all of which are essential for the workplace.”

Applications for WorldSkills UK 2026 close on Thursday (Mar 27), with Welsh competitors also in contention to represent the UK at the international finals in Shanghai later this year.

For more information, visit inspiringskills.gov.wales.

REFORM UK has gained its first county council seat in Pembrokeshire following a seven-way battle for a ward made vacant following the death of veteran councillor Mike Stoddart.

Cllr Mike Stoddart, who passed away in January, represented Milford Haven’s Hakin ward, and had been a county councillor for more than two decades, having first been elected in 2004, with wife Vivien and daughter Tessa Hodgson also having county seats, Hubberston and Lamphey respectively, with Tessa also serving as Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care.

The late Cllr Stoddart was well-known as an outspoken councillor, critical of failings and injustices, as he had been when he set up the Milford Mercury newspaper with his family before he became a councillor.

In later years, Cllr Stoddart also held an often-critical mirror to council and councillor activities through his popular Old Grumpy website.

Following his death a by-election was held for the Hakin ward, with the count taking place on March 17, initially with an eight-way fight for the seat.

That eight-way fight was reduced to seven when Labour candidate Nicola Harteveld, who set up charity foundation the Megan’s Starr Foundation, withdrew her candidacy after allegations a family member was harassed during her campaigning.

Those standing for the ward included parties the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Welsh Conservatives, Reform, the Green Party, and three independents.

Results for the ward, which saw a 32.7 per cent voter turnout were: Derrick William Charles Abbott, Independent, 11 votes; Samuel Robert Booth, Wales Green Party, 85; Lee James Bridges, Independent, 106; Duncan Ritchie Edwards, Independent, 52; Brian Kelvin Taylor, Welsh Conservative Party, 144; Samuel Warden, Welsh Liberal Democrats, 57; Scott Michael Thorley, Reform UK, 179.

Nicola Catherine Harteveld, Welsh Labour, who withdrew her candidacy, still attracted 27 votes.

Winner Scott Thorley had previously unsuccessfully stood as a Reform candidate for the Prendergast Haverfordwest ward seat made vacant following the resignation of local county councillor Andrew Edwards.

He was later co-opted on to Haverfordwest Town Council.

Speaking after his Hakin ward win, the-now Cllr Thorley said: “It was a massive honour to win last night and I’m more than aware I’ve got some massive shoes to fill in Hakin.

“I’ve already started work this morning and have responded to four residents first thing.

“People in Hakin just want the basics done right and someone they can reach out with any issues they have; I will be that person.”