News
Three day a week oncologist cover for Withybush Hospital
A CONSULTANT oncologist will provide cancer care at Withybush General Hospital three days a week, Hywel Dda has confirmed to The Pembrokeshire Herald.
Dr Pudney, has been released by ABMU Health Board, to work at the Haverfordwest hospital three days a week, supporting nursing staff on the chemotherapy day unit and treating patients with breast cancer from Pembrokeshire.
The previous consultant, Dr Anne Barnes, left her position last month because she considered that the health board had made it impossible for her to do her job.
The health board says that the cover doctor is “the result of a partnership approach taken by Hywel Dda University and ABMU health boards to work closely together on the continuing development of oncology services in the region.”
Dr Pudney said “I’m looking forward to supporting the team at Withybush Hospital. I’ve worked as a consultant at the South West Wales Cancer Centre for seven years and I specialise in the management of breast and urological cancers. I’ve got a particular interest in developing advanced radiotherapy, including intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and heart sparing radiotherapy for breast cancer. I’m particularly looking forward to experiencing first hand, the delivery of care in such a rural setting.”
In the longer term, the University Health Board is looking to develop the whole cancer services model across chemotherapy, consultant outpatients, acute oncology (a new UK wide specialty within oncology), pharmacy and other cancer services. This includes work on Bronglais Hospital chemotherapy day unit as well.
Clinical Nurse Specialist Tracey Thomas said: “We are working closely with our key stakeholders, specialist groups and the voluntary sector and have identified funding for four nurses and to support education, training and development that can be shared with our community staff as well. We are also working on professional development opportunities for nurses, all of which will further strengthen the service we provide to cancer patients”.
Clinical lead and Associate Director of Clinical Services for the University Health Board Dr Sian Lewis added reassurance for patients following the departure of Dr Anne Barnes from the hospital and the petition regarding Ward 10.
She said: “We acknowledge the public concern and would like to reassure people that Ward 10 continues to be a designated cancer ward. We can reassure patients that her withdrawal does not affect the new service model introduced in Withybush Hospital and provided by a team of doctors and nurses.”
The service model introduced in September sees cancer patients admitted to hospital through the Acute Clinical Decision Unit or the Emergency and Urgent Care Centre so there is no delay to their treatment. Patients are then transferred to Ward 10 or sometimes on other wards depending on their clinical problem, under the care of experienced general physicians and their teams with specialist oncology input from within the University Health Board or from the South West Wales Cancer Centre in Swansea. This is the usual practice in district general hospitals throughout the UK.
Patients who require urgent medical treatment related to cancer are reminded that they should continue to go to A&E as normal.
Dr Sian Lewis said: “We are fully committed to our continued provision of safe cancer, care services within Withybush Hospital and we are working with the HywelDda Community Health Council and community groups to make further improvements in areas such as the Chemotherapy Day Unit. There is a great deal of passion in Pembrokeshire in support of local services, we share that passion and want to harness it to help deliver services of which we can all be proud.”
Chris Evans-Thomas, Bucketful of Hope, said: “We are keen to work well together to bring the new unit to fruition for the people of Pembrokeshire. With the required legislation attached to our donations – all fundraisers for the hospital in future will feel a lot more secure about the way in which their money is spent”.
Bernie George, Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal said: “The team of people who work in Ward 10 and the CDU have our utmost respect. The people of Pembrokeshire have voiced their concerns about the future of the service so we aim to do all we can to work with the health board to bring about the new CDU and the planned enhancement of Ward 10”.
Lyn Neville, Pembrokeshire Cancer Support said: “The care I received at Withybush was fantastic and I know others are as keen as I am to see cancer care at the centre of the University Health Board’s plans for the hospital. The board has given public assurances that a new Ward 10 will be provided and it is up to us to hold them to account for delivering on those promises.”
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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