A PETITION call for a public commitment to save Pembrokeshire’s River Cleddau will be heard by full council next year.

The e-petition, started by James Harrison-Allen, says: “We call on Pembrokeshire County Council to create and enact a Clean Rivers Policy to restore the Cleddau to good health after decades of neglect and degradation.

“The Cleddau flows through the heart of Pembrokeshire, including our county town, and is the foundation for Pembrokeshire’s prosperity. The river is failing, and we need to act now to save it from irreversible decline.

“What’s the problem? The Cleddau rivers and estuary are the worst (and worsening) polluted SAC (Special Area of Conservation) designated rivers in Wales; worse even than the Wye and the Usk (NRW Water Assessment Report 2024), and considerably worse than the neighbouring Towy and Teifi.

“Damaging impacts on Pembrokeshire’s economy, public health and the natural environment. Ineffective regulation; monitoring, responding, policing, enforcement and prosecutions. What should PCC be doing to address this? Make a formal, public commitment to cleaning up the Cleddau. Make the health of the Cleddau central.”

Earlier this year, Henry Tufnell, MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, called for “urgent” action to tackle the poor state of the River Cleddau when he chaired a discussion bringing together key stakeholders, environmental experts, and community voices to address the issues surrounding water quality and pollution.

The panel event, organised by local river action group The Cleddau Project, covered topics including pollution sources, enforcement failures, and potential solutions to improve the river’s health.

The panel included representatives from Afonydd Cymru, Welsh Water, Natural Resources Wales (NRW), Cardiff University, and First Milk.

More than 150 people gathered at Haverfordwest Rugby Club just days after NRW declared the Cleddau the worst performing of the protected rivers in Wales.

Speaking after the event, Mr Tufnell, said: “The Cleddau is a vital natural resource, and last night’s discussion highlighted the urgent need for action.

“The insight shared by our expert panel and members of the community reinforced the importance of tackling pollution at its source and ensuring our regulatory bodies are held accountable.

“I am committed to continuing this fight for cleaner water and a healthier environment for future generations.”

The petition runs up to February 1, and had attracted 1,678 signatures as of December 16.

If a petition gets 500 signatures, the creator will have an opportunity to debate it at a future full council meeting; more than 100 will trigger a debate at a council overview and scrutiny committee.

THE MAYOR of Milford Haven has paid tribute to the town’s strong community spirit, volunteers and charities in his Christmas message to residents.

Councillor William D. Elliott said it continued to be a “huge privilege and pleasure” to serve as Mayor and First Citizen of Milford Haven, praising the range of events and activities that bring people together throughout the year.

He highlighted the work of many local organisations, including Milford Haven Round Table, Milford Haven Business Circle, Milford Haven Town Band, Torch Theatre, Boulevard Theatre, St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, St David’s Church Hubberston, the Port of Milford Haven, Pill Social Centre, Milford Haven Branch of the Royal British Legion, Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, community centres in Hubberston and Hakin, local scout and youth groups, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society and the Megan’s Starr Foundation, among many others.

The Mayor said these groups continue to grow from strength to strength, benefiting not only Milford Haven but surrounding communities as well.

“Community cohesion and working together is key to our success,” he said. “We benefit greatly from the expertise and skills that each group brings, and many simply could not operate without the dedication and commitment of volunteers.”

Councillor Elliott thanked volunteers for their efforts during 2025 and encouraged residents to continue supporting local charities and not-for-profit groups through donations and involvement.

He also reflected on the town’s Citizens Awards, which he presented in June, describing it as humbling to recognise volunteers who make a significant difference locally. Residents were encouraged to submit nominations when the awards reopen in April and May.

The Mayor paid special tribute to the Megan’s Starr Foundation following its success in achieving a King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

“This is the highest award given to local volunteering groups in the UK, equivalent to an MBE,” he said. “For one of our own community organisations to receive such an honour is outstanding and reflects the hard work and determination of so many volunteers. Many congratulations to all involved.”

Reflecting on the meaning of Christmas, Councillor Elliott said it represents love, giving, respect and hope, values he believes Milford Haven demonstrates throughout the year, particularly in supporting those in need.

He also highlighted the annual Christmas Together event held on Christmas Day, which he and his Consort, Lloyd, will again attend.

“This event perfectly captures the spirit of our town by offering companionship and care to those who might otherwise be alone,” he said. “It shows Milford Haven at its very best, and the volunteers who give their time year after year truly make a difference.”

Councillor Elliott also thanked residents for supporting his Mayor’s Charity fundraising over the past eighteen months.

Concluding his message, he said: “On behalf of Lloyd and I, and all our Town Councillors, we would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.”

Community turnout despite wet weather as children greet Santa along village route

SANTA brought early Christmas cheer to Solva as families turned out to greet the village’s festive sleigh run organised by Solva Community Council.

The pre-Christmas route saw Santa and his helpers make their way through the village on Monday (Dec 22), with residents encouraged to step outside and wave as the sleigh passed by. Children along the route were treated to small festive gifts, adding to the excitement.

Posting on social media ahead of the run, Solva Community Council said: “All ready for a pre Christmas route run of Solva. Come out and say hi.”

The event drew warm reactions from residents, with one parent commenting: “Kid’s loved this, thank you.”

Responding, the Community Council said it was delighted with the turnout, adding: “We love doing it! Thank you all for coming out, we have plans for next year too! Have a lovely Christmas!”

Others also shared their appreciation, with one resident joking: “Well we’re all big kids really,” while another described the event as “Brilliant.”

The Santa sleigh has become a popular part of the festive calendar in Solva, helping to bring neighbours together and create a sense of community in the run-up to Christmas.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Christmas cheer: Santa on his way to families during the festive sleigh run through Solva (Pic: Solva Community Council).