News

Over 5000 in fight for 24 hour paediatrics

Published

9 years ago

February 2, 2016

No to cuts: A protest last year in Cardiff

AN ONLINE petition to bring back 24 hour paediatric services to Withybush General Hospital in Haverfordwest has gained over 5000 signatures in less than a week.

The change.org appeal, started by hospital campaigner Myles Bamford- Lewis, was launched on social media today and has received a ground-swell of support.

Myles said: “I am petitioning the Hywel Dda Health Board and Mark Drakeford, the Health Minister to return 24 hour paediatrics to Withybush. Back in August 2014 the Hywel Dda pushed through a policy of centralisation to Glangwili Hospital. This now means that there is no Special Care Baby Unit, no 24-hour children’s ward and no 24 hour antenatal care in Pembrokeshire.

He added: “This in itself has had a negative impact on health care in south west Wales with many families being forced to travel for over an hour to reach Glangwili. This has also caused a great deal of hardship on these families, myself included, as we have been forced to drive up to a 100 mile round trip to reach these services.”

In response to the start of the online petition, Chief Executive Steve Moore told The Herald: “We have heard ourselves in our public engagement meetings, and it is apparent from the support for this petition, that there is still a great deal of concern in Pembrokeshire about the changes to some women and children’s services that were made last year. At the same time, we have received very clear independent, advice from various Royal Colleges that clinical outcomes for patients have been maintained and there is better compliance with professional standards. A review said there was no clinical sense in reversing the service changes which we cannot ignore and we are not therefore pursuing plans to return overnight, inpatient paediatric services to Withybush Hospital.

Hospital campaigners: Myles Bamford-Lewis and partner Jasmine McGinley

“We are however, making changes to improve current services and patient experience, both at Withybush Hospital and Glangwili Hospital. At Withybush Hospital for example, we are planning to move the Paediatric Assessment Unit closer to the Emergency Department, as part of a wider scheme to re-develop the hospital. This would have the benefit of improving patient flow between the Emergency Department and assessment unit and provide the ability for enhanced support by the specialist paediatric team to emergency staff.

“At Glangwili Hospital we are progressing plans for the Phase Two project to improve the environment for women and children’s services and we will be using data from patient experience surveys and seeking views on these plans. In the interim period we have provided enhanced transport services for families between the two hospitals and we hope to soon provide improved accommodation for fathers and families who may wish to wait at Glangwili Hospital for their partners during early labour.”

To sign the petition follow the link on this website or on our Facebook page.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

17 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

17 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

23 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”