News

Christopher holds the key to success

Published

9 years ago

February 12, 2016

Christopher Locke: Recently completed the first stage of his
transformation

19-YEAR-OLD Christopher Locke from Haverfordwest recently completed the first stage of his transformation from civilian to Royal Navy sailor in a 10 week introductory course held at the HMS Raleigh training base in Cornwall.

This course teaches 9 essential Maritime skills which enhance naval discipline and optimise operational effectiveness. These 9 foundation skills will form as part of the knowledge that Christopher will rely on to thrive whilst at sea as a Royal Navy sailor.

One of the skills that is taught on the course is navigational awareness, in which recruits are given the chance to take the helm of their own inflatable boat and test their orienteering abilities. Candidates are also trained in basic combat and survival skills, as Royal Navy personnel can be involved in land-based operations.

Fitness is also a key component of training, of which the Royal Navy say ‘is delivered using a disciplined method of military fitness which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance’.

Dotted amongst the 10 weeks are 3 extended exercises that all recruits are expected to take part in. These drills put the skills and principles that have been taught into practice.

Reflecting on the Navy training he has received so far, Christopher said: “The days seem really long during training, but the weeks really fly by.”

At the end of the 10 weeks, the course ended with a “passing-out-parade” which was attended by Christopher’s family and friends to celebrate the completion of the first step in his Naval career.

Before joining the Royal Navy, Christopher worked as a Sales Assistant after finishing his education at Tasker Milward School in Haverfordwest. He said that he was inspired to join the Navy as he “wanted more from life” and aims to remain in the Navy and keep improving on his training until he reaches the position of Medical Assistant.

The next step in Christopher’s career will see him travelling to the Defence Medical Training Services Centre at Whittington Barracks in Lichfield to complete a 20 week medical training course.

Christopher will be trained in first aid, environmental and preventative medicine, anatomy and physiology, as well as administration and pharmacy. On the completion of this course, Christopher will receive a distinctive red Geneva cross.

If anyone you know is interested in undergoing a similar experience to Christopher’s, details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 03456 00 53 02.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

2 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.

Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.

The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.

Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.

Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.

(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)

Business

Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure

Published

10 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.

The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.

The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.

A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”

Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.

Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.

From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.

Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.

(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

Published

10 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.

In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”

Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.

Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.