A HOOK man has appeared before magistrates charged with recording another person as she carried out what the Crown has described as ‘a private act’ and sharing it on WhatsApp for his sexual gratification.

Jonathan Hughes, 32, is accused of carrying out the offence at a residential property in Pembrokeshire on November 26, 2022. 

Hughes, of Pill Road, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday where he denied the charge of voyeurism.

Despite magistrates agreeing that the charge is suitable for summary trial in the magistrates court, Hughes elected for the case to be heard at Swansea Crown Court. 

His trial proceedings will commence on June 7.

Hughes was released on conditional bail, the conditions being that he has no contact with the complainant either directly or indirectly, he makes no contact with her home address and that he refrains from putting anything on social media relating to the complainant.

THE Tenby Coastal Cruiser, a beloved summer tradition, is set to return this year, delighting locals and tourists alike with its scenic route from Saundersfoot to Tenby. Commencing its service on Saturday, May 25, this cheerful double-decker bus promises an unforgettable experience for passengers seeking breathtaking coastal views and a convenient mode of transportation between these picturesque Welsh towns.

With its vibrant open-top deck, the Coastal Cruiser offers passengers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline. From the moment the cheerful “BEEP BEEP” of the bus announces its departure, passengers are treated to a journey brimming with excitement and anticipation.

For those yet to embark on this charming trip, it comes highly recommended as a must-do activity of the season. The Coastal Cruiser not only provides an opportunity to revel in the natural splendor of the coastline but also offers the convenience of a hop-on, hop-off service. This means passengers can explore both Saundersfoot and Tenby at their leisure, perhaps indulging in a spot of shopping at the quaint stores dotted along the route.

“The Tenby Coastal Cruiser is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience,” enthused a local resident. “Whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident, there’s something truly magical about seeing our stunning coastline from the top deck of this fantastic bus.”

Indeed, the return of the Coastal Cruiser is a cause for celebration, signaling the arrival of summer and the opportunity for memorable adventures along the Welsh coast. As anticipation builds for its inaugural journey, locals and tourists alike eagerly await the chance to once again climb aboard and experience the joyous journey from Saundersfoot to Tenby.

So mark your calendars as the Tenby Coastal Cruiser embarks on another season of scenic delights and unforgettable memories.

A MILFORD HAVEN digger driver who hurled racist abuse at his female black neighbours on repeated occasions has been remanded in custody.

Body-worn footage captured by police officers following Ian Thomas’s arrest shows him asking the question, “Am I being done for beating up a black c***?”

Thomas, Hamilton Terrace, was brought before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday after being remanded in custody, following a spate of offences committed on May 4 and May 5.

“The victim and the defendant are neighbours who reside in the same block of flats,” said Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson.

“Initially, when the victim first moved in, there were no issues between them, but then he started coming home drunk, shouting, swearing, and banging on her door.”

On May 4 the victim heard Thomas returning home.

“He was clearly intoxicated and appeared to have wet himself,” continued Ms Jackson.

“He started banging on her door and then she heard him shouting ‘Black bastards’.  She knew it was him because she recognised his voice.”

The following day, the victim returned to her home after attending a church service. 

Once again Thomas subjected her to racial abuse.

“She had placed a black bin bag outside her flat and the defendant kicked it, causing it to split, with rubbish being strewn all over the hallway,” said Ms Jackson.

A victim impact statement was read out the court 

“This has left me feeling very scared,” said the victim. 

“I really don’t know what he would do if he had the chance, and since this happened, I haven’t left my flat.  The racist comments really hurt me and I’m really upset by it.”

Ms Jackson said that when police arrived at Thomas’ flat for questioning, he answered the door holding a knife which he was pointing downwards.  As a result, he was arrested.

“When he was taken into custody he told the officers that he had ‘black c***s’ as neighbours and asked why he was being arrested for beating up a black c***,” added Ms Jackson.

She informed magistrates that Thomas has 26 previous convictions for violence issues, public order offences and weapon offences. 

She said that Thomas is also alcohol dependent.

Thomas pleaded guilty to three charges – causing his victim to fear violence; using threatening words and behaviour and racially aggravated words, affray and causing criminal damage to the bin bag.

Sentencing was adjourned until May 21 and Thomas was remanded in custody, despite a request by his solicitor, Michael Kelleher, for him to be released on bail.

“Generally, he gets on fine with the victim,” he said.  “Unpleasant words were said that day, but they were not intentional. 

“He is not a racist but he was clearly under the influence.”

Thomas was remanded in Swansea Prison until his sentencing.