JOBS and training schemes in Pembrokeshire could be affected by changes to a major UK Government funding programme, with councils across Wales warning that more than a thousand posts may be at risk.

The new Local Growth Fund will replace the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which currently pays for business support, employability and skills projects delivered by councils and voluntary groups.

Like authorities across Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council uses the existing fund to back frontline services including help for small businesses, training courses, and support for people trying to get back into work.

A coalition of councils and third sector organisations, coordinated by the Industrial Communities Alliance, has written to Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging changes to the scheme.

They say the current plans risk avoidable job losses and service cuts, particularly in poorer communities that rely most on council-led support.

Funding for Wales is expected to total around £547 million over three years under the replacement programme. However, local leaders argue that the overall pot is smaller than previous arrangements and that new spending rules could limit how the money is used.

Under proposals, around 70 per cent of the funding would have to go on capital projects such as buildings and infrastructure, leaving just 30 per cent for day-to-day services and staffing.

Councils say most current schemes depend on revenue funding to pay staff who advise small firms, run skills courses and work directly with residents to help them into employment.

The alliance estimates around 1,500 council jobs across Wales are currently supported through the fund, alongside many more in charities and community organisations delivering services on the ground.

Meirion Thomas, who coordinated the campaign, said: “These programmes support businesses, training and employability. Losing them would hit the very communities the fund is meant to help.”

Both the Welsh Government and the UK Government say the new arrangements are intended to drive economic growth and give local areas greater control over spending decisions.

Ministers have said the fund is designed to create jobs, improve productivity and support communities, and that discussions with councils are continuing.

The Herald has asked Pembrokeshire County Council how many local jobs and schemes currently rely on the funding and what impact the new rules may have locally.

With the new system due to start in April, council leaders say clarity is urgently needed to avoid disruption to services that many businesses and jobseekers in Pembrokeshire depend on.

SWIMMERS plunged into the freezing waters at West Angle Bay on New Year’s Day to raise thousands of pounds for local hospice care, as the annual Angle Dip returned with one of its most successful events yet.

The 2026 dip raised £2,694.36 for the Paul Sartori Foundation, helping fund free hospice-at-home services for families across the county.

Crowds gathered along the sands at West Angle Bay to cheer on participants, with a mix of seasoned dippers and first-timers taking to the sea in fancy dress and wetsuits for the traditional New Year challenge. Despite the icy conditions, spirits remained high, with supporters lining the beach to clap, shout encouragement and donate.

Organisers said the event once again highlighted the strong community support behind the charity and its work.

A number of local businesses and groups helped make the day possible, including Wavecrest Café, The Hibernia Inn, KJ Prints, Cwtch Laser Designs, Communic8, Axon, Pembrokeshire Paddlers, and a team of volunteers from the foundation.

Every penny raised will go towards providing practical and emotional support for people living with life-limiting illness. The charity offers hands-on nursing care, equipment hire, complementary therapies, advance care planning and bereavement support, enabling patients to remain at home with loved ones at the end of life.

Joanne Lutwyche, Event and Fundraising Officer for the Paul Sartori Foundation and founder of the Angle New Year’s Day Dip, said: “This year’s dip was absolutely brilliant. The energy on the beach, the support from the community and the bravery of every single dipper made this one of our best years yet.

“I am so grateful to everyone who turns up, volunteers, donates and shouts encouragement from the sidelines. Events like this have a direct impact on our clinical team, allowing them to continue providing essential care to people with life-limiting illness in their own homes. I could not be prouder of what our community achieved together.”

For details of upcoming events or to volunteer, visit the Paul Sartori Foundation website or email [email protected].

Pupil remanded into youth detention as attempted murder case sent to Crown Court

A TEENAGER has been charged with attempted murder following an alleged knife attack on a teacher at Milford Haven Comprehensive School.

The 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons because of his age, appeared before magistrates at the weekend after the incident at the Pembrokeshire secondary school on Thursday afternoon (Feb 5).

He faces charges of attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and possession of a bladed article on education premises.

Magistrates heard the alleged attack took place shortly after 3:00pm while the teacher was working with the pupil in a classroom. It is claimed the boy used a kitchen knife during the incident.

The female teacher suffered injuries to her head, finger and back and was taken to hospital for treatment.

The defendant spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the short hearing. Members of his family were present in court.

The case was deemed too serious to be dealt with at magistrates’ level and has been sent to Swansea Crown Court.

He was remanded into youth detention accommodation.

The teenager is due to appear before the Crown Court on Monday, March 9.

Police and education officials have not released further details at this stage