A ROUTINE night supporting local communities turned unexpectedly dramatic for Ajay Owen, the Director and Chair of Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch, after he was pulled over by police twice on Tuesday evening last week (Nov 19).

Ajay, who was assisting residents across North Ceredigion and Western Powys during freezing conditions, was first stopped in Aberystwyth. Dyfed-Powys Police had received a report falsely alleging he was using illegal blue lights to stop drivers.

Cooperating fully with officers, Ajay allowed them to inspect his vehicle, where they confirmed no blue lights were installed. He explained that he uses legal magnetic amber lights, which are removed when not in use. Officers described the check as the “easiest” they had ever conducted, with Ajay even assisting in the inspection. Reassured, the officers thanked him for his community work and allowed him to continue.

However, hours later, Ajay was stopped again, this time near Cardigan, by a separate team of traffic officers investigating the same allegation. After explaining the earlier stop, the officers apologised and allowed him to proceed without issue.

Ajay praised the professionalism and empathy of the officers involved in both incidents, despite the false reports that triggered the stops. Following the events, he filed an official report requesting an investigation into the malicious calls.

The police would not comment on the specific stops but said in a general statement: “Stop and search remains a hugely important police power for protecting the public, tackling crime and keeping our streets safe.

“Stop and search must be used in a fair and effective way that supports public confidence and is independently scrutinised.

“We will continue to work with our communities and stakeholders to ensure that stop and search continues to protect the public.”

Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch reminded volunteers no Neighbourhood Watch member, Coordinator, or Deputy is permitted to use blue lights under any circumstances.

“Any breaches of this policy will be reported to the police”, they said.

A WOMAN has been rescued from Cwm-yr-Eglwys beach in Pembrokeshire after suffering a serious open fracture to her femur.

Emergency services were called to the remote beach yesterday (Nov 25) following reports of the injury, which involved the bone puncturing through the skin.

Wales Air Ambulance, HM Coastguard, an ambulance, and a paramedic car were dispatched to assist the casualty.

Due to the severity of the injury, the air ambulance, carrying a doctor, landed in the caravan field behind the beach. The woman was treated at the scene before being stabilised.

She was subsequently transported to Withybush Hospital by land ambulance for further care.

ROCH CASTLE near St Davids is proud to announce its recent wins at the Historic Hotels of
Europe Awards, held in the heart of Prague.

Adelle and Johanna, representing Roch Castle, accepted two distinguished accolades for the entire team: Historic Eco Hotel of the Year and the Silver Award for Historic Castle Hotel of the Year.

The Historic Eco Hotel of the Year award recognises Roch Castle’s dedication to sustainable
hospitality, a core value shared by staff and visitors.

This award celebrates the castle’s eco-friendly practices and commitment to preserving the environment while offering a luxury
experience steeped in history.

The Silver Award for Historic Castle Hotel of the Year also honours Roch Castle’s unique ability to provide guests with an unforgettable stay in an authentic and beautifully restored 12th-century castle.

The management gave a heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who supported Roch Castle and voted in the awards.

Special recognition is due to our exceptional team, whose hard work and dedication
made these achievements possible.

For more details on Roch Castle or to experience this award-winning destination for yourself,
visit our website at www.rochcastle.com, email [email protected] or call 01437 725 566.