News
New Dyfed-Powys Chief Constable started as volunteer

Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police: Mark Collins
THE POLICE AND CRIME PANEL have confirmed the appointment of Mark Collins as the new Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police.
Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: “I am very pleased to announce that following the completion of the rigorous recruitment process, my preferred candidate, Mark Collins, has now been officially appointed the new Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police.
“I am grateful for the response of the workforce and from our communities, when I set out to establish the type of Chief Constable we required for Dyfed-Powys Police. In reflecting on this feedback, and in considering the policing priorities I will be laying out, I believe we have selected a Chief who above all else will improve the organisation and the service it provides to the public.
“I was very pleased with the interest shown by those keen to lead Dyfed-Powys Police and am very much looking forward to continuing this journey with the new Chief Constable, in developing the Force’s future.
“In accepting the offer, Mark emphasised how delighted and privileged he feels in having the opportunity to work with us in serving the communities across the Dyfed-Powys Police force area.”
Mark Collins is currently the Deputy Chief Constable of Bedfordshire Police, but he has a long association with the Dyfed-Powys area, and in fact began his career in the police service when he was appointed as a Special Constable in Carmarthen in 1987. His commitment to policing was cemented in 1991 when he became a Police Constable and joined the Metropolitan Police, but shortly returned to Dyfed-Powys Police in 1995 as a Constable in Cardigan. Over the next 10 years he worked in all four counties serving at every rank to Superintendent in Uniform and CID.
In 2006 Mark was promoted to lead the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit (WECTU). In more recent years he served as the ‘Preventing Violent Extremism Deputy National Coordinator’ based in London with a national remit, a Borough Commander with the Metropolitan Police, and most recently has been both Assistant Chief Constable and Deputy Chief Constable at Bedfordshire Police. He lives in Carmarthenshire with his wife.
Crime
Alleged pay TV fraud case due before Haverfordwest magistrates
Milford Haven man faces three Fraud Act charges linked to apps, electronic data and adapted Amazon Fire TV sticks
A MILFORD HAVEN man is due to appear before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Apr 21) charged with three offences under the Fraud Act 2006.
Michael David Barrow, 48, of Priory Road, Milford Haven, is listed to appear before magistrates in connection with allegations relating to software and devices said to have enabled unlawful access to pay television content.
According to the court list, it is alleged that between October 19, 2019 and February 22, 2024, at Haverfordwest and elsewhere in Pembrokeshire, Barrow made applications, known as apps, and/or other electronic data which enabled access to pay television content without appropriate payment being made to those entitled to it.
He is further accused of supplying applications, apps and/or other electronic data intended to be used to commit, or assist in the commission of, fraud.
A third charge alleges that he supplied Amazon Fire TV Sticks which, when adapted, enabled access to pay television content without appropriate payment being made to the rights holders, intending them to be used to commit, or assist in the commission of, fraud.
All three charges are brought under Section 7 of the Fraud Act 2006.
Community
Tributes paid to teenager killed in Ceredigion crash
Family say 19-year-old Lee Barber will be remembered for his kindness, strength and positive attitude
THE FAMILY of a 19-year-old man who died in a road traffic collision in Ceredigion last month have paid tribute to him.
Lee Barber, from Aberaeron, died after the vehicle he was travelling in was involved in a collision on the A482 between Lampeter and Ciliau Aeron on Tuesday, March 24.
In a statement released through Dyfed-Powys Police, his family said: “There are no words that can describe the pain we are feeling as a family. The loss of our son, Lee, has devastated us and has deeply affected the whole community.
“Lee was a loving son who lived life to the fullest. He will be remembered for his kindness, his strength, and his positive attitude. He had a way of bringing people together and made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
“We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the local community and further afield for the overwhelming support we have received. The messages, stories, memories, and photos that have been shared with us mean more than words can say.
“Our boy Lee will live on forever in our hearts and minds. We now kindly ask for privacy as we take time to grieve.”
Police confirmed the collision happened on the A482 between Lampeter and Ciliau Aeron and that Lee died at the scene.
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Community
Pembrokeshire Chess Club welcomes AI opponent on historic visit
PEMBROKSHIRE’S thriving chess community witnessed a unique blend of tradition and technology last week, as Pembrokeshire Chess Club hosted a special guest: “Rook to D2” – an AI-powered chess robot from the Welsh Chess Union.
The visit marked the first stop of the robot’s tour across Wales, making it a historic moment for the county. Club members, both young and old, gathered at Kensington Court in Steynton to experience the future of chess firsthand.
Excitement filled the room as the club’s President officially opened proceedings by making the first move against the robotic challenger. From that moment on, it was “game on,” with 15 junior players eagerly taking turns to test their skills. Several adult members also joined in, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.
The evening proved especially memorable for the club’s younger players, who relished the chance to play against cutting-edge technology. Their enthusiasm was matched by club officials, including the Chairman and President, who welcomed the opportunity to introduce innovation into the local chess scene.
Club representatives described the atmosphere as “amazing,” highlighting how advancements in technology are enhancing traditional games like chess and inspiring a new generation of players.
Pembrokeshire Chess Club continues to meet weekly at Kensington Court, Steynton. Junior sessions are held every Tuesday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, followed by sessions for more experienced juniors and adults. The club prides itself on being family-friendly and inclusive, catering to all abilities – from casual players seeking a friendly game to those aiming to compete in league and tournament chess.
Following its successful debut in Pembrokeshire, the AI chess robot is expected to visit other clubs across Wales in the coming weeks, bringing the same sense of excitement and innovation to chess communities nationwide.
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