News

Newgale beach clean a big success

Published

8 years ago

August 22, 2016

Beach 3 A SCHEME encouraging visitors to keep Newgale beach clean is proving a success.

The West Wales beauty spot became the first beach in Wales to sign up to the National #2MinuteBeachClean campaign with the help of an enthusiastic volunteer, Pembrokeshire County Council and Keep Wales Tidy.

Leisure seekers on the two mile stretch of sand can collect rubbish as they go with the use of a litter picker and plastic bags made available through a special board that dispenses them to passersby.

Paul Hill, a Team Co-ordinator with Portfield S.A.C. and a daily user of the beach set it up after hearing about the scheme through his love of the sea.

“Being an avid surfer and beach user you become more aware of the ocean environment and the first thing I started to notice was the amount of plastic appearing on our beaches which is having a devastating effect on marine life and even getting into the human food chain.

“After every surf, I would pick up whatever I could manage on the way back to the car park.

“I manage and run West Coast Surf Wax and through this I became aware of #2minutebeachclean.

“I asked if we could have a board for our beach and they gave us one to try and so I put it out and bring it back in each day and finance the bags and litter pickers needed.”

Since the board was first put in place close to the Pebbles cafe on the south side of the beach, over 20 bags are put in the dispenser daily and they’re all being used.

Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Member for Environmental and Regulatory Services, Councillor Huw George hopes the popularity of the board at Newgale will encourage others to operate the scheme at a beach close to them.

“A little bit can go a long way to ensure a beach is kept litter free and a two minute clean can do wonders.

“Pembrokeshire County Council supports the scheme by replacing lost pickers and collecting what’s picked and I’d encourage volunteers and sponsors to come forward and start their own #2minute scheme to ensure a clean and tidy environment for locals and visitors across all of the County’s beaches.”

Senior Project Officer with Keep Wales Tidy, Zoe Abbott says what may seem like an insignificant gesture creates a sum much larger than its parts.

“Keep Wales Tidy are delighted that the #2minutebeachclean board has been championed in Wales by a Pembrokeshire business. The #2minutebeachclean offers an easy way of helping our environment one piece of litter at time.

“Whilst an individual effort may seem insignificant, collectively it makes a big difference to one of our most precious assets. We would love to hear from you if you would like to adopt a beach board in your area.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

17 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

17 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

23 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”