Judge halts hearing after victim statement reveals ongoing facial injuries

A MAN who admitted causing serious injuries to a woman outside a Milford Haven bar has had his sentencing postponed after a judge ordered further medical evidence to be obtained.

Ben Jenkins, aged 27, of St Lawrence Avenue, Hakin, appeared before Swansea Crown Court on Monday (Feb 16) for sentencing after being found guilty to causing grievous bodily harm to a female motorist outside the Nos Da Bar on Victoria Road, Milford Haven, on Guy Fawkes Night, November 5, 2023.

The court heard the case had been listed for sentence, but proceedings were halted part-way through the prosecution’s reading of the victim personal statement when new details emerged about the ongoing impact of the injuries.

Prosecutors told the court that the victim continues to suffer significant facial deformity more than two years after the incident, including a swollen cheek, an altered smile, and the presence of a bone fragment lodged within her sinus cavity.

At that stage, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC intervened and directed that updated medical reports must be obtained before the court could properly assess the seriousness of the injuries and determine an appropriate sentence.

The victim’s statement described the profound physical and psychological consequences of the assault. She told the court that her confidence had been shattered and that her “world has become small”, with day-to-day life affected by pain, anxiety, and ongoing medical uncertainty.

Judge Thomas said the court required further clarification on the permanence and long-term prognosis of the injuries before sentence could be passed. He also made clear his concern about the defendant’s attitude.

“Ben Jenkins still shows no remorse whatsoever,” the judge remarked, indicating this would be a relevant factor when sentencing eventually takes place.

The hearing was adjourned to allow medical evidence to be obtained, and the case will now return to Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on April 17.

Jenkins remains on bail pending the next hearing.

Helpline receives 9,000 contacts in a year as campaign highlights hidden impact on young

CHILDREN and young people rely on the adults around them to grow up in a safe, stable and loving environment.

But what happens when a parent or carer’s dependency affects the care they are able to provide?

Last year, the NSPCC Helpline received more than 9,000 contacts from people worried about a parent or carer misusing alcohol or drugs — an average of 25 contacts every day between April 2024 and March 2025.

Some callers reported hearing arguments and furniture being thrown. Others described seeing parents inebriated or unconscious, or children who appeared dirty, neglected or hungry.

Last week (Feb 8–14) marked Children of Alcoholics Week, organised by the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa). The annual campaign aims to reassure children affected by a parent or carer’s substance use that help is available and that they do not need to suffer in silence.

The NSPCC once again supported the campaign. Alongside helpline contacts from concerned adults, Childline delivered more than 300 counselling sessions last year to children worried about a parent’s substance use.

One 15-year-old girl told counsellors: “I am struggling at home with my mum’s addiction. I hate it when she doesn’t take care of her health, so we end up arguing almost every day because it’s then up to me to take care of my two younger brothers.

“I feel I don’t have time for anything, and I’ve been sleeping very poorly. I am so glad Childline is here to listen to my problems. My mum used to care, but she’s changed. I just need to know how to cope with so many responsibilities.”

Another young person said: “My mum used to drink every day as far back as I can remember. Her drinking meant that I had to be the mum to my siblings and I didn’t really have a life. I was responsible for making sure my siblings all got fed, were dressed and bathed and in school. I cooked and cleaned around the house too.

“I didn’t feel like I was a child — I felt like I was growing up too quickly. I didn’t speak to anyone about what was going on at home because I didn’t realise it was wrong. That was just my life, and I thought it was normal.”

Most parents and carers who drink alcohol do so in moderation, without increasing the risk of harm to their children. However, when alcohol is consumed in large quantities over a prolonged period, it can lead to abuse and neglect with serious consequences for a child’s future.

Parental substance misuse can affect children at every stage of development. During pregnancy, alcohol exposure can increase the risk of birth defects, premature birth, low birth weight and withdrawal symptoms.

As children grow older, they may face behavioural or emotional difficulties, poor school attendance or attainment, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or exposure to criminal activity.

Parents and carers who regularly misuse alcohol may struggle to recognise or respond to their children’s needs, increasing the risk of harm. While this does not necessarily mean a child will experience abuse or neglect, it can have a significant impact on their emotional wellbeing.

The NSPCC wants children to know they are not alone and that support is available. Childline is there to listen to any child, while the NSPCC Helpline provides advice and support for adults who are concerned about a child’s welfare.

Nacoa UK’s helpline is also available for children, adults and professionals concerned about a parent’s drinking on 0800 358 3456 or via [email protected]
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Local MS speaks about pressure of politics in major newspaper interview

SAMUEL KURTZ has said he remains determined to retain his Senedd seat despite growing political uncertainty, following a prominent double-page interview published ahead of the Welsh Parliament election in May.

The Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS spoke candidly about the pressures of public life, the challenges facing his party, and the personal toll of political scrutiny, while insisting he remains focused on local campaigning.

Mr Kurtz said: “We’re working hard for the win, but the world’s not going to end on May 8 if I don’t get re-elected.”

The comments reflect what political observers describe as a realistic assessment of the electoral environment facing the Conservatives across Wales ahead of polling day on Thursday, May 7.

Pressure of public life

In the Western Mail article, Mr Kurtz discussed the intensity of modern politics, including criticism on social media and the impact on family life. He suggested resilience was essential for anyone working in public office, describing politics as demanding but worthwhile.

The MS also highlighted his rural upbringing and agricultural background, emphasising his connection to farming communities and countryside issues — a key theme likely to feature heavily in his re-election campaign across rural parts of the constituency.

Local record under scrutiny

Mr Kurtz has represented Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire since being elected to the Senedd in 2021.

During that time he has spoken on issues including agriculture policy, rural economic development, and healthcare pressures, often criticising Welsh Government performance on NHS waiting times and public services.

However, with the election approaching, local voters are expected to judge candidates primarily on issues affecting daily life in Pembrokeshire, including GP access, hospital waiting lists, transport infrastructure, employment opportunities, and the cost of living.

Political landscape changing

The upcoming election will take place under new Senedd arrangements, with boundary and voting system reforms expected to alter the political landscape across Wales.

The constituency has historically been competitive, with support shifting between Conservatives, Labour and Plaid Cymru in different elections. Analysts suggest the result in May could be influenced both by national political trends and local campaigning strength.

Campaign period begins

While Mr Kurtz has not yet formally launched his constituency campaign, activity from all parties is expected to increase significantly in the coming weeks.

The Herald will be speaking to voters and candidates across Pembrokeshire as part of its continuing coverage of the Senedd election campaign.