Arundell hat-trick and two Welsh sin bins as hosts rack up seven tries in one-sided Six Nations opener

ENGLAND blew Wales away with a ruthless seven-try display to secure a thumping 48-7 victory in their opening match of the Six Nations Championship at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday (Feb 7).

In front of a full house in south-west London, England national rugby union team combined pace, precision and power to overwhelm a Wales side that simply could not live with the hosts’ intensity, particularly during a devastating first half that effectively settled the contest before the break.

The tone was set early.

England dominated territory from the kick-off, fly-half George Ford dictating play with clever tactical kicking and sharp distribution. After an early penalty nudged them ahead, the first try followed when quick hands released wing Henry Arundell in space and he raced clear down the touchline.

It was the first of three.

Arundell’s pace repeatedly exposed the Welsh edge defence and he completed a clinical first-half hat-trick, twice finishing sweeping backline moves and once chasing down a perfectly weighted kick in behind.

Wales’ task became even harder when discipline deserted them. Prop Nicky Smith and hooker Dewi Lake were both shown yellow cards within minutes of each other for repeated infringements, leaving the visitors down to 13 men at one stage.

England ruthlessly punished the numerical advantage.

Ben Earl crashed over from close range after a series of pick-and-go carries, before Tom Roebuck finished smartly in the corner as the ball was spun wide at pace. By half-time England were 29-0 ahead and in complete control.

To their credit, Wales national rugby union team showed more fight after the restart. A sustained spell of pressure finally produced their only score when Josh Adams gathered a cross-field kick to dot down in the corner, briefly lifting the travelling support.

But any hopes of momentum were short-lived.

England struck back almost immediately. A powerful maul marched deep into Welsh territory, leading to another close-range score, and matters worsened for Wales when a clear try-scoring chance was illegally stopped, prompting the referee to award a penalty try.

Tommy Freeman added the final flourish late on, slicing through tired defenders to cap a dominant afternoon.

Ford added four conversions and a penalty from the tee to keep the scoreboard ticking.

No players were sent off, but the two sin bins proved hugely costly, coming during the period when England built their decisive lead.

For England, it was close to the perfect start to the championship. Their pack won the collisions, the breakdown was slick, and their back three looked dangerous every time they touched the ball. The blend of control and cutting edge suggests they will be genuine title contenders.

For Wales, it is back to the drawing board. Defensive lapses and ill-discipline were punished at the highest level, and conceding seven tries will concern the coaching staff ahead of their next fixture.

Scorers
England: Henry Arundell (3), Ben Earl, Tom Roebuck, Tommy Freeman, penalty try. Conversions: Ford (4). Penalty: Ford.
Wales: Josh Adams. Conversion: Edwards.

Longest-serving town councillor remembered as tireless champion for her community

TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of former mayor and long-serving town councillor Pamela George, a familiar and much-loved figure in Pembroke Dock public life.

Cllr George, believed to be the town’s longest-serving member of Pembroke Dock Town Council, died on Saturday (Feb 1).

Over decades of service, she became known for her commitment to local causes and her hands-on approach to helping residents, with colleagues describing her as a dedicated public servant who always put the town first.

She served as mayor on nine separate occasions, most recently during the 2022/23 civic year, and was regularly seen supporting community events, fundraisers and local organisations across the town.

In a statement, the Town Council said it was “with great sadness” that members learned of her passing.

A spokesperson added: “Pam was very passionate in her role as councillor and mayor and she will be sorely missed. She gave so much of her time to Pembroke Dock and to the people who live here.”

A book of condolence has been opened to allow residents to pay their respects.

Local representatives from across Pembrokeshire also shared their memories.

Samuel Kurtz MS described the news as “incredibly sad”, offering condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. He said she was always generous with her time and knowledge of the town.

The Pennar Community Hall committee called her “a true stalwart of the community”, recalling her regular presence at fundraising events and her unwavering support for local initiatives.

Fellow councillors said she was known for her positivity and encouragement, as well as her deep pride in Pembroke Dock. One described her as a “great mentor and friend” and “a wonderful ambassador for the town”, while others remembered her constant smile and dedication to residents.

Current mayor Michele Wiggins said the town would feel her loss keenly.

“She was a wonderful champion for Pembroke Dock,” she said. “Her positivity, commitment and loyalty to the town have been like no other. She will be greatly missed.”

Cllr George’s long record of service leaves what many say is a lasting legacy in the community she worked so hard to support.

Fifteen-year-old charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm and possession of a bladed article appears before Swansea magistrates

A FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD boy has been remanded into custody after appearing in court charged with causing serious injuries to a teacher during a knife incident at Milford Haven Comprehensive School.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Saturday following his arrest on Thursday afternoon.

Magistrates heard the alleged attack took place shortly after 3:00pm inside a classroom at the school.

Classroom incident

Prosecutors said the boy is accused of producing a kitchen knife while speaking with a female teacher who was helping him with his work.

The court heard the teacher suffered injuries to her head, back and finger and later received hospital treatment. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Emergency services were called to the scene and officers attended the school as a precaution while the situation was brought under control.

Charges outlined

The teenager is charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a bladed article on education premises, offences under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861.

Section 18 relates to intentionally causing really serious harm and is one of the most serious assault offences in law.

During the brief hearing, the defendant spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth. No pleas were entered.

Family members watched proceedings from the public gallery.

Case moves to Crown Court

Magistrates declined bail and remanded the boy into youth detention accommodation.

He is due to appear next at Swansea Crown Court on February 9.

The Herald understands that safeguarding procedures were put in place at the school following the incident, with pupils kept safe while officers dealt with enquiries.

Police investigations remain ongoing.