News
Minister visits luxury boat builder in Pembrokeshire
THE FIRST MINISTER, Carwyn Jones, has visited a familyrun business Dale Sailing Company that makes bespoke luxury yachts in Neyland. Dale Sailing Company, run by brothers Mike and John Reynolds, has gained an international reputation as an expert boatyard that makes one-off, top quality, custom designed boats that are personalised to meet the requirements of each individual owner. The company, based in Brunel Quay, Neyland, recently unveiled the Dale Classic 35 at the Southampton Boat Show where it won rave reviews and was a big hit with the crowds at the international marine event.
The Dale Classic 35 has also been nominated for the prestigious Motor Boat and Yachting awards 2015 which will take place at this year’s London International Boat Show. The Welsh Government provided funding towards Dale Sailing’s marketing materials and the berth at the Southampton show in September.
The First Minister said: “I was delighted to hear the Dale Sailing’s latest luxury motor launch made a big impression at the Southampton Boat Show and that the high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail has been singled out for praise and helped the company make such an impact.” “I am pleased that the Welsh Government was able to provide support to the company to achieve this.” Mike Reynolds said: “The Dale Classic 35 was a big hit at the Southampton Show and we’ve had huge interest from potential customers in the UK and Europe.”
“We are proud to have a reputation for top quality craft and our success is down to our attention to detail, high quality craftsmanship and customer service.” “We have consolidated and restructured the company over the recent few years and are now looking at further ways of developing and expanding the business.”
The business, which has 40 employees, also has a commercial boat building arm specialising in catamarans for use as passenger boats, support vessels for off shore wind farms and for fishing fleets. Mike added that there was potential for growth in increasing its dry berth facilities, the leisure and tourist side of the business, expanding its commercial boats services and boat building in the specialist and commercial catamaran markets. Dale Sailing was set up in 1961 by Mike and John’s father Campbell Reynolds in Dale.
Mike and John took over the business in 1979 and moved to larger premises in Neyland Marina in 1983 where it has boat building, boat repair, lift out and storage facilities on a 4.5 acres site with 10,000 sq ft of workshops. Over the years Mike and John have developed a strong management team and a highly skilled workforce who are committed to the further development, expansion and long term success of the company. John’s son Gareth is maintaining the family connection as he recently joined the company and is taking responsibility for the Leisure and Commercial boats.
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.
Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.
The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.
Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.
Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.
As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.
For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.
With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.
At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.
The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”
With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.
Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.
Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.
Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.
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