News

Store fined £9000 for sale of dangerous goods

Published

11 years ago

November 21, 2013

THE OWNERS of a Milford Haven discount shop have pleaded guilty to two charges relating to the display and sale of dangerous goods.

Poundstretcher Ltd, of Havens Head Business Park, admitted at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court on Tuesday that on September 20 they displayed, and allowed a customer to purchase, batteries which were likely to leak acid and which did not meet safety standards at their Poundstretcher Xtra store.

Pembrokeshire Council solicitor Geoff Harries told the court:
“Poundstetcher were in court in Swansea on July 26, 2012, when the company pleaded guilty to eight charges of allowing dangerous goods to be sold.
“The Super Power brand batteries were subject to tests when customers in Swansea reported to trading standards officers that they had bought defective products.”

He added: “Poundstretcher had purchased over 2.2 million packs of batteries from a Chinese supplier, but their company secretary admitted in a letter that no steps had been taken to test the quality or safety of the products.

“When they were fined in July 2012 there was a destruction order made for 74,570 packs. The company sent a memo to all stores requesting that five types of the batteries were taken off sale, but two further types were still available to the public.”

Mr Harries continued: “On September 20, 2012 trading standards officers made a test purchase of Super Power batteries, and this is what these charges relate to.”

Defending counsel Gwilym Roberts-Harry, of Angel Chambers, told the court: “It was by luck rather than design that no one was seriously injured by the acid leaking from the batteries.”

The barrister added: “It seems that people on the bottom floor at the company did not realise that these items should not have been sold.
“This is an isolated incident since the case in Swansea in 2012,” he said.

On sentencing the chairman of the bench told the court: “We are very disappointed that Poundstretcher did not take steps to ensure the safety of the public.”

The company was fined a total of £8940.69, which included costs to Pembrokeshire County Council of £2365.20

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!