Over 1,200 Pembrokeshire pupils took part in longest-running initiative of its kind in Wales

AGENCIES from across Pembrokeshire have gathered at the South Hook LNG Terminal to review the continued success of Crucial Crew — widely regarded as the county’s most important safety education event for young people.

The thirty-second Crucial Crew programme, the longest-running initiative of its kind in Wales, took place over two weeks before Christmas at Scolton Manor, welcoming more than 1,200 pupils from thirty-nine schools. The event is organised by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Road Safety Team with financial support from South Hook LNG Terminal.

Representatives from partner agencies and Scolton Manor were invited to South Hook recently to reflect on the delivery of the latest programme, evaluate feedback from teachers, and consider ways the initiative can continue to evolve to meet the needs of young people.

Since its launch in 1993, more than 40,000 Pembrokeshire schoolchildren have benefited from the interactive workshops, which remain a key part of the final year of primary school education in the county.

The event brings together emergency services and specialist organisations to provide practical safety advice across a range of real-life situations. Topics include water, fire, road and rail safety, electrical hazards, school bus evacuation, online safety and dog awareness, with pupils guided through realistic scenarios designed to build confidence and awareness.

Organisations delivering sessions include Pembrokeshire County Council’s Road Safety and School Transport teams, National Grid, Network Rail, Welsh Ambulance Service, Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the John Burns Foundation, HM Coastguard and the RNLI.

A spokesperson said the continued partnership approach ensures the event remains relevant and impactful for future generations of young people in Pembrokeshire.

Photo caption: Partners and agencies involved in Crucial Crew meet at South Hook LNG Terminal to discuss ongoing improvements to the annual safety event (Pic: Supplied).

A PEMBROKESHIRE athlete is due to complete a gruelling triathlon on behalf of Hywel Dda Health Charities, for a cause he’s “honoured” to support.

Mathew Terry is taking on this year’s Long Course Weekend Wales to raise money for Cancer Services, Ceredigion, in memory of his best friend Rhian Mason.

Rhian sadly died at the age of 42 from cancer, but received “wonderful care” from the team at Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth early on in her diagnosis.

Mathew will be competing in a 2.4-mile swim, followed by a 112-mile cycle ride and then a marathon, in Rhian’s name.

He said: “Rhi received exceptional care from the Cancer Services Department at Bronglais Hospital. The compassion, professionalism, and support they provide to patients and families at the most difficult times is truly inspiring.

“They helped Rhi navigate the early stages of her cancer with kindness, professionalism and superb care.”

He added: “It’s a real privilege to take on Long Course Weekend in her memory, and to raise funds to help ensure this incredible team can continue supporting others when they need it most.”

Tara Nickerson, Fundraising Manager for Hywel Dda Health Charities, said: “We’re so grateful for Mathew’s support. It’s a real privilege that he’s chosen to compete on behalf of our charity and the important work that Cancer Services do.

“The generous charitable donations we receive don’t replace NHS funding. Instead, they are used to provide items and activities above and beyond core NHS expenditure, such as more welcoming surroundings for patients, families and staff, and research into, and the development of, treatments.”

Long Course Weekend Wales is happening on 26^th-28^th June 2026.

For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to https://hywelddahealthcharities.nhs.wales/

Free family event will celebrate Pembrokeshire’s coast, marine life and community projects

MILFORD HAVEN will host a free maritime celebration this St David’s Day, with families invited to enjoy a day of hands-on activities, talks and local food at the popular Waterfront.

The Festival of the Sea will take place on Sunday (Mar 1) from 10:00am to 4:00pm, bringing together organisations, community groups and marine experts to highlight Pembrokeshire’s connection to the ocean and the people working to protect it.

Organised by Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, the one-day event will feature a range of interactive attractions, including a live marine touch tank hosted by the Field Studies Council, creative workshops with the Waterfront Gallery, and storytelling sessions from organisations such as the RNLI, Celtic Deep, Car Y Môr and The Crown Estate.

Visitors will also be able to learn more about local environmental initiatives, meet community organisations and explore projects focused on protecting and shaping the future of the region’s seas.

Food lovers can enjoy a selection of locally produced dishes from Pembrokeshire Beach Food, while families will find plenty of activities designed to inspire curiosity about marine life and coastal heritage.

Organisers say the festival aims to celebrate the county’s unique coastal environment while encouraging people of all ages to connect with the ocean through learning, creativity and community engagement.

A full programme of talks, workshops and activities is expected to be released ahead of the event.