A NEW chapter in local journalism is set to begin as Herald prepares to launch a dedicated podcast and video interview series, building on more than a decade of reporting across west Wales.

The project, which is expected to begin recording within weeks, will see a wide range of guests brought into a fully equipped studio to discuss the issues shaping Pembrokeshire and beyond. From politics and community campaigns to business, crime and personal stories, the aim is to give a platform to voices that matter locally.

The move marks a significant step in the evolution of Herald, which has grown from a traditional print publication into a digital-first news platform reaching millions of readers online each week.

Editor Tom Sinclair said the idea had been years in the making, even if it had not been fully realised until now.

“We’ve actually had the equipment for a long time,” he said. “It was originally purchased as part of a large production setup, but at the time the audience and the technology just weren’t there in the way they are today.

“Now everything has changed. People watch video, they engage with clips, and they want to hear directly from the people involved in the stories.”

The Herald understands that the studio has been assembled using professional-grade equipment originally sourced from a public sector production facility, alongside cameras, lighting and audio systems built up over many years.

The result is a broadcast-style environment capable of producing multi-camera interviews, discussions and recorded segments suitable for both long-form viewing and short clips for social media.

Sinclair said the focus would be on straightforward, honest conversations rather than heavily produced content.

“This isn’t about slick presentation or trying to be something we’re not,” he said. “It’s about asking the right questions and letting people speak. That’s what we’ve always done in print, and this is just the next step.”

Initial plans include a series of structured interviews with local figures, alongside topical discussions reflecting the biggest stories of the week. With the Senedd elections approaching, the new format is also expected to provide a platform for candidates and campaigners to set out their positions directly to voters.

Interest in the project has already begun to build, with members of the public, campaigners and political figures contacting the Herald to take part. The Herald understands that a number of early guests are being lined up, with recording expected to begin shortly once final technical preparations are complete.

The introduction of podcasts will also open up new opportunities for local businesses, with episode-level sponsorship packages being explored as a way to support production costs while promoting local services.

Sinclair added that the project would remain rooted in the community.

“We’ve spent 13 years building an audience and earning trust,” he said. “This is about using that platform in a new way — not replacing what we do, but adding to it.”

While the format is new, the goal remains the same: to inform, to question, and to reflect the voices of Pembrokeshire.

Readers, businesses and potential guests interested in taking part in the podcast series can contact the Herald via email at [email protected].

A RECORD number of young musicians from across Pembrokeshire took part in this year’s Valero Primary Music Festival, with nearly 600 pupils showcasing their talents.

The event, organised by Pembrokeshire Music Service, was held at Ysgol Caer Elen on Saturday (March 14), drawing a large and enthusiastic audience.

The festival’s overall winner was Hafan y Môr pupil Carys Meiring, who impressed judges with a standout trombone performance of Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off. She had earlier secured victory in the open brass class.

Young talent shines

The afternoon Spotlight concert opened with an energetic performance from the county’s Second Steps ensembles, bringing together young players from across Pembrokeshire.

Winners from the day’s open classes also took to the stage, highlighting the depth of musical talent across local schools.

Osian Kite, of Roch CP School, won the open woodwind class with a performance of Sentimental Serenade on alto saxophone.

Cadi Marshall-Jones, from Ysgol Bro Preseli, claimed the open piano and harp title with Over the Sea to Skye, while Roch CP School cellist Mari Broomfield won the open strings category with Vamoose.

In percussion, Ysgol Caer Elen’s Aled Hooper secured first place in the open class with a drum kit performance of Are You Gonna Go My Way.

The open ensemble prize went to Tavernspite pupils Finn Hickman and Evelyn James, whose piano duet of Handel’s Passacaglia impressed both judges and audience.

Building confidence through music

Head of Pembrokeshire Music Service, Philippa Roberts said the festival continues to play a vital role in developing young performers.

She said: “Pembrokeshire Music Service is proud to deliver the Valero Music Festival, offering an exciting opportunity to nearly 600 young performers from across the county.

“Providing children with the chance to perform, shine, and receive supportive feedback from professional musicians is incredibly powerful and helps build lasting confidence.

“In line with the Music Plan for Wales, we remain committed to creating meaningful musical experiences for children throughout Pembrokeshire. Our sincere thanks go to Valero for their fantastic support.”

The festival forms part of a wider effort to promote music education across Wales, encouraging participation and nurturing the next generation of performers.

Photo caption:

Talented performers: Overall winner Carys Meiring is pictured with fellow category winners and organisers (Pic: Pembrokeshire Music Service).

NEARLY £1 million has been secured to strengthen marine biosecurity across the Milford Haven Waterway in a major new environmental initiative.

The Aberdaugleddau Biosecurity Community Development (ABCD) project has been awarded £959,180 from the Nature Networks Fund, delivered by the Heritage Fund on behalf of the Welsh Government. The three-year scheme aims to combat the growing threat of invasive non-native species and protect one of Wales’ most important marine ecosystems.

The project will introduce a coordinated, waterway-wide approach, combining new infrastructure with training, monitoring and public awareness campaigns.

Washdown facilities key focus

A central part of the scheme will see new vessel washdown facilities installed at boatyards around the waterway. These are designed to prevent biofouling – the build-up of organisms on hulls – which is a major pathway for invasive species entering and spreading in local waters.

By capturing and safely managing waste from thousands of vessel cleanings, the project aims to significantly reduce the risk of harmful species re-entering the marine environment.

Boatyard staff will also receive specialist training, while water users will be given targeted guidance alongside bilingual materials promoting the “Check Clean Dry” campaign.

Cutting-edge monitoring

The initiative will also utilise advanced monitoring techniques, including environmental DNA (eDNA), allowing experts to detect invasive species earlier and respond more effectively.

The work supports the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation Biosecurity Action Plan and builds on previous studies carried out by environmental consultants.

Leaders welcome funding

Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive of the Port of Milford Haven, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be leading this important partnership project alongside some great partner organisations.

“The Milford Haven Waterway is central to our communities, economy and natural heritage, and invasive non-native species pose a growing threat to its ecological health.

“This funding allows us and our partners to put sector-leading biosecurity measures in place, supporting local businesses while safeguarding the marine environment for the long term.”

Sue Burton, Pembrokeshire Marine SAC Officer, added: “This project tackles one of the top five drivers of global biodiversity loss.

“Reducing the introduction and spread of invasive species requires collective action, and this collaborative, waterway-wide approach is exactly what is needed.”

Wide partnership involved

The ABCD project will run from April 2026 to March 2029 and involves a broad partnership including the Port of Milford Haven, Dale Sailing, Rudders Boatyard, East Llanion Marine, Lawrenny Yacht Station and Mainstay Marine Solutions.

It will also work closely with Natural Resources Wales, the RYA’s Green Blue programme, the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat and local water users.

The scheme is expected to leave a lasting legacy through improved infrastructure, increased awareness and stronger collaboration in tackling marine invasive species.

Photo caption: New washdown facilities will be installed at boatyards across the Milford Haven Waterway (Pic: Rudder’s Boatyard).