A CONTENTIOUS trial scheme Pembrokeshire council trial scheme for an overnight motorhome and campervan parking site close to Fishguard’s ferry has now got underway.

A trial scheme for overnight motorhome parking facilities at the Goodwick Moor car park, The Parrog, was mooted back in 2024 after a February 2024 council Cabinet-backed trial scheme for ‘Pembs Stop’ campervan and motorhomes facilities at four car parks was later dropped.

It had initially been agreed that car parks at North Beach, Tenby; Goodwick Moor, Goodwick; Townsmoor, Narberth; and Western Way, Pembroke Dock would form the trial areas operating year-round at £10 a night for a trial 18-month period, with the intention not to create ‘campsites’.

That planned trial received national coverage, even seeing a discussion on a phone-in programme on BBC Radio Wales.

Local tourism businesses had said the proposals will harm them, and concerns about the trial were also raised by the official tourism industry group for Pembrokeshire, Visit Pembrokeshire.

That scheme was later dropped following opposition, instead an overnight trial stopover facility for motorhomes at Goodwick Moor car park, linked to the ferry port mooted; a later planning application approved back in July 2025 despite objections from Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council.

In the last few days Pembrokeshire County Council announced the two-year trial was now in operation, with a £10 cost of staying overnight, a maximum of one night allowed along with other restrictions.

One of those reacting to the scheme’s launch was Fishguard North West councillor Steve Hughes, who said: “I’m pleased to see this initiative finally up and running, but it doesn’t go far enough in my opinion to offer the services expected from the rapidly increasing ‘vanlife’ community.

“Whether on holiday or permanently touring, this is a financial resource many towns should be looking to take advantage of.

“This isn’t as some may fear competition for established campsites but a new set of customers looking for a safe overnight park up who wouldn’t otherwise choose a campsite, but park in lay-byes and other unregulated areas. I look forward to seeing how this trial period works and hope that further services can be added in future.”

Council officers will monitor the site and review the scheme once the trial period is completed.

A HAVERFORDWEST fish and chip shop has been left with a hefty repair bill after a group of youths allegedly targeted the premises in a late-night incident.

Coronation Chippy said it was attacked on Saturday (Apr 26), when a “bunch of kids” spent around 15 minutes throwing stones at the shop’s windows and doors. The business reported that the glass canopy at the front of the shop was smashed during the incident, leaving debris scattered outside.

In a social media post, the owners described the damage as costing “£1000s of pounds” and said the incident had caused distress not only to staff but also to neighbouring businesses.

They said: “Unfortunately, our business was a target to thugs yesterday. A bunch of kids with nothing better to do and even less respect for others decided to spend 15 minutes throwing stones at the windows and doors of the shop. This resulted in the glass canopy that covers the shop being smashed.”

Dyfed-Powys Police attended the scene, with the business thanking officers for their “prompt response and support.” Crews from Haverfordwest Fire Station were also called to make the area safe by removing broken glass.

The shop also praised local contractor Dave Hughes of W.B Griffiths & Son Ltd for assisting with urgent repairs, along with neighbours who offered support in the aftermath.

The owners added: “The result of what these kids think of as ‘fun’ has resulted in £1000s of pounds of damage, the involvement of multiple services and upset so many.”

Police have not yet confirmed whether any arrests have been made.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

A MILFORD HAVEN father has successfully completed the London Marathon today in memory of his son, while raising money for Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice.

Johnathan Crimmins crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 4:04:14, with a halfway split of 2:42:06, in what he described as both a physical and emotional challenge.

He took on the marathon in honour of his son Kieran, who died seven years ago at the age of 21 following a battle with his mental health.

Speaking ahead of the run, Johnathan said the experience of losing his son had shown him how precious time with children can be.

He said: “Sadly seven years ago I lost my son, Kieran, at the age of 21 following a battle with his mental health. So, I know all too well the importance of being able to spend time with your children, as time is precious and not always guaranteed.

“By being able to run for Tŷ Hafan, I know that not only will I be raising awareness of Tŷ Hafan and what they do, but also raising valuable funds which will ensure that families will be supported and enabled to spend quality time together during their children’s short lives.”

This was Johnathan’s fifth full marathon and his third time running the London Marathon, adding to a long list of fundraising challenges including half marathons and even skydives.

He also spoke candidly about the personal challenge behind the run, having been diagnosed with severe PTSD following the discovery of his son alongside his daughter.

He said: “This will be a significant challenge for myself… so I will also be running in Kieran’s memory.”

Tŷ Hafan supports children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Wales, helping them make the most of the time they have together.

Johnathan’s achievement has been praised locally, with many recognising both the physical effort involved and the powerful cause behind his run.