Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

News

MPs debate future of local papers

Published

on

PARLIAMENT’s back benchers will debate the future of local newspapers in Westminster next week. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for local newspapers to encourage their local MPs to attend the debate and ‘argue for their local paper’.

In a letter to local journals the NUJ state the case that cuts to jobs and closures to local newspapers have resulted in a loss of 5,000 editorial roles in local and regional press. The union state clearly that they see this as a threat to local democracy, as local politicians are then not being held to account and voters, as a result, are not being given a range of views, resulting in a deprivation of information required to make informed judgements when voting in elections.

They go on to say that, ‘digital newsrooms are transforming the way journalists are expected to work. Despite taking on many changes, journalists have not seen their pay improve and are experiencing heavy workloads because they are expected to bring in stories, cover events, produce videos and podcasts and use social media’.

A spokesperson for the NUJ said: “Local newspapers and their websites are the most trusted form of the media, read by more than 30 million people each week. Readers expect their local newspaper to be their watchdog, keeping tabs on the decisions made by local politicians, defending local services, supporting the local football team and giving a voice to the community.”

As a result the NUJ have called for: A short, sharp national inquiry into the state of local news; local papers to become community assets to prevent newspaper titles closing overnight and to give potential new owners, including local co-operatives, the time to put together a bid for the paper; action to stem the job cuts and attacks on quality journalism and research into new models for local journalism, levies, tax breaks and other measures to fund community journalism.

Nia Griffith, Labour MP for Llanelli, told The Herald: “Local newspapers make a very valuable contribution to our communities and are a vital part of our democracy. They keep people informed of what is happening in their locality and provide an excellent means for people from all sections of the community to have a voice. Good local reporters keep our local public bodies on their toes, asking pertinent questions about how they are spending our money, and making sure they know what local people think of them. I for one certainly value our local papers, even when they take me to task – that’s part and parcel of their role!”

Member of Parliament for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, Simon Hart, also stated: “Our local papers in this area have always provided high quality information and news coverage and have adapted incredibly well to changing technology, as well as the evolving tastes and requirements of readers. Being married to a former local news journalist I am always keen to support our local papers and respect their independence.”

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Community17 hours ago

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...

Community19 hours ago

Train disruption expected due to essential works at Clarbeston Road

PASSENGERS are being asked to check before they travel between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour next week when Network Rail...

News19 hours ago

Council secures injunction to order removal of waste and scrap

A PEMBROKESHIRE man must remove abandoned cars, scrap and other waste from his land within weeks or face a potential...

Community2 days ago

Suspected explosive device found on west Wales beach

NEW QUAY Coastguard Rescue Team were tasked at 03:50 this morning following a report of suspected washed up Ordnance on...

Crime2 days ago

Teenage girl in court charged with three counts of attempted murder

A 13-YEAR-OLD appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court this morning, in connection to the incident at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman on Wednesday....

Crime3 days ago

All three school stabbing victims discharged from hospital, police confirm

POLICE remain at Ysgol Dyffryn Amman today, following an incident yesterday in which three people were injured, Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed...

Crime4 days ago

Pembrokeshire pensioner accused of 17 sexual offences against children

A 72-YEAR-OLD Pembrokeshire man has appeared before magistrates charged with 17 sexual offences against children under the age of 14....

News4 days ago

Police and air ambulances at ‘serious incident’ at West Wales school

DYFED POWYS POLICE has said it is dealing with an incident at a west Wales school. There has been a...

News5 days ago

Haverfordwest interchange: Next stage of £19m project backed

The second stage of building Haverfordwest’s near-£19m transport interchange has been backed, with senior councillors hearing it could cost the...

News1 week ago

20mph U-turn: Some roads will return to 30mph following public outcry

IN a recent shift in policy, Transport Secretary Ken Skates announced that some roads in Wales will revert to a...

Popular This Week