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Teething problems for Cardigan Castle

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Cardigan CastleONLY a week after it was opened to the public, Cardigan Castle temporarily closed its gates to the public.

Despite receiving £12m in grants, the Castle’s tarmacking works were not completed when local media and worthies were invited to attend last week’s opening event.

Sue Lewis, Cardigan Castle spokesperson, said: “The castle opened to the public last week following an extensive £12m restoration project. During the soft-launch period, we’ll be putting final touches in place in time for the busy tourist season ahead, which includes the final surfacing of the garden paths. The site was closed to visitors for two days, from Monday April 20 to Tuesday April 21, while work is being carried out. We recorded more than 500 visitors on the first day of opening so are delighted with the response and looking forward to a great summer at the castle.”

Speaking after the original opening, Ms Lewis said: “The whole community is of course ecstatic to see Cardigan Castle returned to its former glory. The site has witnessed many key moments in Welsh history over its 900 years including bloody battles.”

It seems, however, as though some battles remain to be fought.

Response to the castle’s opening has not been unmixed. In a faux pas that is sure to anger The Friends of Rhys ap Gruffudd, who have condemned the castle’s failure to book Welsh music acts for a festival in July, menus for the castle’s restaurant during the opening week were printed only in English.

The Herald understands, however, that following complaints bilingual menus are now available while catering arrangements at the castle, which were described as ‘chaotic’, have also been changed.

Claims made by local historian Father Cunnane at the opening ceremony about the cost of bringing the Gorsedd of Bards and transporting the Gorsedd stones down from Brondesbury Park (near Tesco’s) to the Castle have been disputed.

Fr. Cunnane’s further comments regarding Dic yr Hendre, the late Eisteddfod Chair whose family have withdrawn an offer to place his Archdruid’s regalia on display at the Castle, have also been met with considerable resentment.

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Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

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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.

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Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

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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.

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Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

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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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