News
Tributes to Little & Broad Haven volunteer who raised over £500,000
TRIBUTES have been paid to a woman who spearheaded raising more than half a million pound for the RNLI.
Mary Whitewright had given over 40 years of service and was one of the founding members of the branch – then called the Ladies Guild – at Little & Broad Haven when it started back in 1975. Earlier this year Mary received the highest honour bestowed on non-crew volunteers by the Institution when he was made an Honorary Life Governor.
Mary, who sadly passed away on November 6 at the age of 76, had been secretary of the branch for over 37 years.
The Branch has received a string of awards in its 40-year history, including five Gold Awards and four Bars to Gold Awards. Speaking at the 40th anniversary dinner Mary said: “We have always said that fundraising can be fun and we have always made it fun. We have had so many laughs over the years.”
Mary Whitewright, who had lived in Little Haven, was a local councillor among helping out on various other committees. When asked recently what her first memories of the branch were she said: “I was firstly asked to raise money for a scanner for the crew which cost around £200, I was successful and managed to raise the entire amount over the single weekend. Ever since I have continued in the same vein”
Andy Grey, who has been involved with Little & Broad Haven RNLI for 36 years and is the current Lifeboat Operations Manager at the station, said: ‘This is a very sad time and our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Mary’s family.
“Mary was here at the lifeboat station when I started as crew in 1982 and she has been here ever since.
“She was instrumental in organising many fundraising activities over the years, after using the pub she ran as the venue for fish & chip suppers, raffles and many other successful activities.”
Andy added: “Mary’s energetic nature and vibrant personality always ensured she had plenty of help at all the events.
“Recently at a very successful celebration of 40 years Branch Dinner, she managed to acquire the service of the legendary Welsh Prop Graham Price to speak at the occasion,
“In Graham’s words I was not asked or even invited – Mary just told me that I would do it for the RNLI, that’s how much she loved the organisation.’
“Such was Mary’s impact, for every emergency call out Mary would stop whatever she was doing and would be the first person on the front clearing people off the slip and stopping the traffic. But never forgetting to put on the yellow vest and donation box in hand.
“Mary will certainly leave a lasting memory – a pillar of the community.”
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
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.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
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.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.
Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.
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