News
MP gets helicopter answers

Simon Hart: NPAS has finally offered answers
IT’S TAKEN them three months – but local MP Simon Hart has finally gained some answers from the National Police Air Service (NPAS) to his detailed questions about the future of the Dyfed-Powys helicopter service.
Mr Hart sought reassurances from the head of the police helicopter service that Carmarthenshire won’t suffer if the Dyfed-Powys helicopter ceases to fly from Pembrey next year.
He put a set of detailed questions about response times, refuelling needs and “no fly zones” to the Chairman of the National Police Air Service (NPAS), Mark Burns-Williamson on March 27.
After a three-month delay and repeated chasing Mr Hart has finally received an answer.
“I had originally written to highlight concerns about longer response times if the helicopter was moved further away and to raise fears about gaps in cover,” said Mr Hart.
Estimates based on modelling state that if the helicopter is moved to St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan then it will take 10 minutes longer than the current 20 minute response time to reach west Wales.
Mr Hart said: “The initial NPAS response I had received to my original queries answered some questions but it also raised others, especially concerning response times and cover during busy holiday periods. I asked for further clarification on these matters.”
He has now been told that the 30 minute flight time figure is based on ‘simulation modelling’ which is being applied for the first time to air support. Mr Burns-Williamson adds that NPAS is reviewing its fuelling points in remote bases and that the modelling ‘does have some limitations and cannot fully replicate real life, nevertheless it is very robust’.
Mr Hart added: “I also raised concerns about the impact that ‘No Fly Zones’ such as Sennybridge Ranges will have on response times and have been told that Air Traffic Controllers make every attempt to allow police helicopters to cross restricted air space when safe to do so.”
Community
Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker
Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance
FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.
Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.






On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.
Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.
Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.
(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)









Community
Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation
SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.
Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.
In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.
Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.
Community
Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven
ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.
The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.
Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.
The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.

-
Crime13 hours agoMilford Haven man jailed after drunken attack on partner and police officers
-
News4 days agoDyfed-Powys Police launch major investigation after triple fatal crash
-
Crime2 days agoMan sent to Crown Court over historic indecent assault allegations
-
Crime1 day agoMan charged with months of coercive control and assaults
-
Crime4 days agoMan spared jail after baseball bat incident in Milford Haven
-
Crime2 days agoMilford Haven man admits multiple offences after A477 incident
-
Crime12 hours agoTeenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub
-
Education7 days agoTeaching assistant struck off after asking pupil for photos of her body





