News

Eluned Morgan vows childcare expansion for working families

Published

2 months ago

April 16, 2026

First Minister says Welsh Labour’s £100m plan will widen access, ease pressure on parents and avoid the problems seen elsewhere

FIRST MINISTER Eluned Morgan used a visit to a playgroup in Colwyn Bay on Wednesday (Apr 16) to promote Welsh Labour’s pledge to expand childcare in Wales, saying the plan would help working families, support child development and remain within the Welsh Government’s budget.

The Welsh Labour leader said childcare was central to the party’s offer ahead of the Senedd election, with ministers promising a phased £100 million expansion over the next Senedd term.

Under the proposal, funded childcare would be extended to babies from the age of nine months. Welsh Labour says the plan would create 20,000 new funded childcare places across Wales.

At present, the Welsh Government provides up to 30 hours of funded childcare for three and four-year-olds for 48 weeks of the year. Labour says its new approach would widen support while making sure the system remains deliverable.

The party says the expansion would be introduced in phases to ensure that staff, settings and infrastructure are in place, and to avoid the access difficulties seen across the border.

During her visit, Baroness Morgan said the policy would help families with the cost of living while also making it easier for parents to stay in work or return to employment.

She said: “In the middle of a cost of living crisis, childcare is not just a convenience – it is a lifeline for working parents and the foundation of our children’s futures.

“We are putting money back into the pockets of families. While others are making promises that do not add up, we are setting out a measured and sustainable plan that supports providers and gives every child in Wales a fair start.

“Welsh Labour is focused on what we can actually deliver. Plaid’s proposal would leave a massive hole in Wales’ budget, raising serious questions which they need to answer.”

Labour said the Welsh Government had already moved to support childcare providers through a 4.2 per cent increase in the childcare offer rate for 2026-27, following a 28 per cent increase for 2025-26.

It also pointed to the decision to make business rates relief for childcare premises permanent, saying the move would provide longer-term stability for providers across Wales.

The visit formed part of Labour’s wider election messaging, with the party seeking to present its childcare offer as both ambitious and affordable while drawing a clear dividing line with opposition pledges.

Charity

Tenby Freemasons donate £400 to cancer care charity

Published

5 hours ago

May 31, 2026

Tom Sinclair

TENBY Freemasons have donated £400 to Tenovus Cancer Care following a raffle held during the lodge’s annual installation banquet.

The raffle took place on the night Damian Brown was installed as Master of Tenby Freemasons Lodge.

As is tradition at the annual installation meeting, the incoming Master chooses a charity to receive the proceeds.

Mr Brown selected Tenovus Cancer Care, a Wales-based charity which supports people affected by cancer through expert advice, counselling and mobile support units.

The charity also funds research into new cancer drugs, improved treatments, and better ways to diagnose and prevent the disease.

Mr Brown later visited the Tenovus shop in Pembroke with lodge charity steward Steve Thurgood, where he presented the donation to volunteer Elena.

Pictured: Damian Brown and Steve Thurgood present the donation to Tenovus volunteer Elena.

Charity

Local cycling legend Ted celebrates 90th birthday

Published

5 hours ago

May 31, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Much-loved GTBAL regular inspires community with stories of adventure, resilience and kindness

A WELL-KNOWN face at one of Pembrokeshire’s best-loved community cafés is celebrating a remarkable milestone as Ted turns ninety.

For the last seven years, Ted has been a familiar presence at GTBAL — short for Get The Boys A Lift — the Haverfordwest-based community coffee shop and mental health support hub on Dew Street.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday after the gym, Ted and friends make their way in for an extra hot cappuccino, conversation and companionship.

Staff and customers say Ted has become part of the “fabric of the community”, with many captivated by the extraordinary stories he shares from a life packed with adventure.

Ted’s experiences have included working as a fine jewellery designer, sailing around the world and raising his family while living aboard a boat.

But perhaps one of his most inspiring achievements came later in life.

At the age of eighty-five, Ted completed a solo and unsupported cycle ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End on his famous trike, raising money for GTBAL along the way. He crossed the finish line on his eighty-sixth birthday.

Many local residents will recognise Ted from his distinctive trike, which has become something of a symbol of his determination and adventurous spirit.

GTBAL said: “What makes Ted so special isn’t just what he’s done. It’s his kindness, his positivity, his curiosity, and the way he can brighten someone’s day with a simple conversation.

“If you see Ted in the shop or out and about, stop and say hello. Spend a few minutes listening to his stories. You’ll leave richer for it.”

As Ted celebrates his ninetieth birthday, friends and customers alike have paid tribute to a man described as an inspiration — proof that age is no barrier to living life with purpose, adventure and generosity.

Cover image:

Ted on his famous trike during one of his fundraising adventures for GTBAL (Pic: GTBAL).

Community

Hospital staff to climb Pen y Fan for Ward 4 fundraiser

Published

7 hours ago

May 31, 2026

Tom Sinclair

STAFF from Ward 4 at Withybush Hospital are preparing to climb Pen y Fan to raise money for their surgical ward.

The team will take on the challenge on Saturday, September 5, 2026, climbing the highest peak in South Wales in Bannau Brycheiniog.

The fundraiser aims to raise £500, with money going directly towards improving the ward environment for patients.

Staff said: “We have organised this event to raise funds that will go directly towards enhancing the ward environment for patients, including purchasing items such as TVs to improve comfort and wellbeing during their stay.

“We’re hoping to raise £500.”

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “A huge thank you to the team on Ward 4 for embracing the challenge and choosing to raise funds for their ward. We hope you have a fantastic day and truly enjoy the experience.

“The generous charitable donations we receive do not replace NHS funding. Instead, they support additional items and activities outside core NHS expenditure. These small extras make a big difference, and we are so grateful for every donation we receive.”

Donations can be made to the Ward 4 Pen y Fan fundraiser at: https://hyweldda.enthuse.com/cf/ward-4-staff-at-withybush-hospital-s-pen-y-fan-cha

For more information about Hywel Dda Health Charities and how to support local NHS patients and staff, visit: hywelddahealthcharities.nhs.wales

Pictured:

Staff from Ward 4