News
Share system leads to farm success
A FARM in North Pembrokeshire run by volunteers uses a share system to distribute its yield throughout the county.
Caerhys Organic Community Agriculture (COCA) is an agricultural scheme run for and supported by the local community. Members share organic food grown in partnership with local farmers.
The concept of COCA is based on mutual benefit and shared risk. Sharers visit Caerhys Organic Farm near St Davids, or one of the other pick-up points across the council to collect their weekly share of freshly harvested seasonal vegetables.
Other than the array of vegetables share holders recieve, fresh local produce like: organic milk, cheese, eggs, free-range organic meats and other locally sourced organic fruit and vegetables are avilable for purchase.
COCA was started in March 2010 by a small group of people including farmer Gerald Miles and founding members Val & Wyn Buick, Gill Lewis, Jacki Sime, Ailsa Buick, Darren Gibbs and Rupert Dunn.
Gerald wanted to secure a sustainable future for his farm and the founding members supported him in achieving this through the Community Support Agriculture (CSA) model.
COCA said: “Thanks to generous donations from founding members to buy seed and equipment we were able to plant the first crops in June 2010 on a two-acre field.”
“Since then,” They continued: “ We have continued to gather momentum and now grow enough vegetables to support our current membership, who are spread all over the St David’s Peninsula. As we mature and build resources, together we deepen our knowledge of growing quality organics for the local community.”
COCA work with nearby organic farmers to get the best range and quality of produce available to their members, they do this through the CSA partnership between the community group and the farmers.
The farm holds open days and social events to encourage a sense of community and connection with the land.
COCA said: “We like to involve members in the life of the farm, whether it is planting onions, picking carrots or just popping down for a cup of tea and a chat.”
The organisation is run day-to-day by a core group of volunteers who are elected by the members. Monthly meeting take place so that all members/sharers can contribute to how COCA functions.
Volunteering is not an essential part of membership to COCA, however they have said that: “Many members find that visits to Caerhys Farm, perched on the edge of the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, to be a thoroughly rewarding part of their week.”
To join COCA and receive your weekly share of the monthly yield you simply have to fill in their downloadable form online and send it back to them detailing which share: large or small, you would like to take.
Small weekly shares which are suitable for one or two people, cost £25 per month, and large shares which will provide for three of four people per week cost £47 with additional charges applying to certain collection points.
COCA encourage those thinking of taking their first share to first trial one of their free, full share boxes, which will give an accurate representation of what the potential farm share holder will recieve.
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
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.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
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.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
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.
-
News4 days ago
Police and air ambulances at ‘serious incident’ at West Wales school
-
Business2 days ago
Largest Welsh port appoints communications and marketing director
-
Crime4 days ago
Pembrokeshire pensioner accused of 17 sexual offences against children
-
Crime3 days ago
All three school stabbing victims discharged from hospital, police confirm
-
Community5 days ago
County Hall to offer space for community banking
-
Crime6 days ago
Brian Davis: Wanted on suspicion of commercial burglary
-
Sport5 days ago
Swifts eyes on double.
-
Community2 days ago
Suspected explosive device found on west Wales beach