News

Security fears cost older people dearly

Published

11 years ago

January 6, 2014

HOME security fears could be costing older people a fortune on electricity bills this winter, with seven out of ten leaving lights on when they’re not at home – and most doing it because they are worried about opportunist crime.

National research into household energy use has shown that 69% of those aged 55 and over are paying to light up their empty houses – with the overwhelming majority fearful they will be vulnerable to break-ins unless they stay switched on. Comparatively, younger people are far less concerned about the threat of intruders this winter, with just 24% of 18 to 24-year olds leaving lights on to deter burglars.

Keith Scott at LEDHut.co.uk (which carried out the research) says: “The advice from the police is that lighting is a very effective deterrent against theft, so the 55+ age group is certainly doing the right thing by being vigilant.

The problem this winter is that energy costs are soaring and it’s becoming increasingly expensive to stay switched on.

“Even if they pop out for a couple of hours each day, feeling secure could be costing older people £120 more than it needs to every year. With this in mind, it really does pay to find ways to stay safe and save this winter. Just swapping their traditional bulbs for money- and energy-saving LEDs could cut people’s lighting bills by up 90%. It’s also worth investing in a timer to control which lights come on when you’re out, as leaving the same light switched on all the time can be a clue that no-one is home. A motion-sensor outdoor security light will also help deter unwanted night-time visitors.”

The survey of 2,000 UK adults was carried out by LEDHut.co.uk as part of its Savvy Switch campaign, which aims to help households save by making simple, low-cost changes to slash their energy use this winter. Fronted by property expert Sarah Beeny, the Savvy Switch is urging homes to make the simple switch to eco-friendly, money-saving LED light bulbs – a move that could see an incredible total saving of more than £8bn on electricity bills and 5m tonnes of CO2.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

23 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!