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Anniversary celebrated by Park Friends

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‘The Vision Moves On’: Four former chairmen came together to cut the beautifully decorated anniversary cake

‘The Vision Moves On’: Four former chairmen came together to cut the beautifully decorated anniversary cake

CELEBRATING their silver anniversary in style with fine dining were the Friends of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (FPCNP), who attended the Wolfscastle Country Hotel last Friday (May 20).

From its inception, the independent voluntary charity FPCNP has been committed to helping protect, conserve and enhance the National Park for all to enjoy.

The FPCNP also aim to be of critical support to the Park Authority, and in recent years they have managed to form an effective campaigning alliance with other sister National Park societies in Wales.

In the unavoidable absence of Steve Drinkwater, the new chairman of the 400-member organisation, his predecessor Peter Heard welcomed the visiting colleagues and guests.

Among the attendees was guest speaker Tori James, Jim Wilson from the Brecon Beacons Society, David Archer from the Snowdonia Society, County Councillor Mike James, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s Tegryn Jones and the Campaign for National Parks’ Fiona Howie.

Also in attendance were the five founding members of the group, who had participated in the first general meeting which took place at the Skrinkle Centre in Manorbier back in May 1991.

Some of the key issues which were discussed back in the first meeting, such as wind turbines, remain on the agenda to this day.

After their delicious dinner, which was made using local produce, guest speaker Tori James gave the group a vivid insight into her many different adventures.

Tori, who was raised on a farm in Pembrokeshire, says that her enthusiasm was kindled through the girl-guiding she completed as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award.

She says that her resolve was tempered by completing a 360-mile Polar Challenge in polar bear territory, across constantly shifting sea ice whilst battling against temperatures of -40°C as part of the Pink Lady Polecats ski team.

In 2007, Mount Everest became her next challenge. The expedition demanded unrelenting physical and mental preparation over the course of 18 months.

Tori described the exhausting acclimatisation process on the mountain, as well as the sickness which took away her first chance to go for the summit, and the obsessional mindset which drove her onwards.

She became the youngest British woman and first Welsh woman to climb Everest on May 24, 2007. During the 40 minutes she stood on top of the world, she said that her overwhelming emotion was one of relief.

She is currently helping to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh Award by taking part in 60 days of adventure, believing that taking part in outdoor activities can transform lives.

Tori’s infectious enthusiasm and her unquenchable passion for adventuring are why she was chosen to be the ambassador for the Visit Wales ‘Year of Adventure.’

After Tori’s inspirational talk, four former chairmen of the FPCNP came together to cut and serve the beautifully decorated anniversary cake.

Peter was thanked for guiding the group through a period of great change, as he led several important developments within the last five years.

One of these developments is the alliance of the Welsh National Park Societies which has brought a new campaigning force to the Welsh Assembly.

Also praised was Peter’s Children’s Literary Competition which piqued young people’s interest in, and awareness of, the unique and special qualities of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

The evening concluded with a presentation to Peter on behalf of all members present. This was followed by a toast to the prosperity of the association for the next 25 years with the stirring headline that appeared in the first issue of their newsletter – ‘The Vision Moves On’.

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Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

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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.

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Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

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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.

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Train disruption expected due to essential works at Clarbeston Road

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PASSENGERS are being asked to check before they travel between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour next week when Network Rail will be carrying out essential work on the platforms at Clarbeston Road station.

Buses will replace trains at all stops between Carmarthen and Milford Haven/Fishguard Harbour on the West Wales lines from Saturday to Tuesday 27-30 April inclusive.

Network Rail engineers will be working at Clarbeston Road station, preparing the platforms to be able to accommodate new Class 197 trains.

The work will include lowering the platforms by removing the coping stones on the platform edge, altering walls, installing new coping stones, and finally laying new tarmac surfacing.

Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director, said: “These essential works will prepare Clarbeston Road station to accommodate the new Class 197 trains our colleagues at TfW are introducing.
“We’re grateful to passengers and local residents living near Clarbeston Road station for their patience and understanding while we carry out this important work.”

The line between Carmarthen and Milford Haven will also be shut all day on Sunday 12 May and Sunday 19 May, when buses will again replace trains, as Network Rail engineers carry out essential track renewals on a 100-metre stretch of track near Haverfordwest station.

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