News

RNLI life-saver on New Year’s Honours list

Published

8 years ago

December 31, 2016

Tom Sinclair

Vivienne Grey: Awarded an MBE

A PEMBROKESHIRE life-saver has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours.

Vivienne Grey, a volunteer crewmember at Little and Broad Haven RNLI since 1990, has been involved in more than 120 ‘shouts’ on the lifeboat and is credited directly for saving the lives of eight people.

She has also volunteered with the local Coastguard Rescue Team for the past 10 years.

A highlight during her time with the RNLI was the rescue of a small boy from the foot of cliffs in 2004. In very rough seas, the lifeboat was manoeuvred close to the cliff base and she, with the aid of her crew, managed to get the boy on board.

More recently her skills were needed to rescue two young children spotted clinging to an open kayak in St Brides Bay in the summer of 2015. Her knowledge of the coastline and seamanship ensured that they were found moments before drowning, recovered and returned safely to shore.

Since 2008, Vivienne has also held the voluntary role of Lifeboat Training Coordinator at the lifeboat station. She coaches and mentors her fellow crew members, ensuring that the high standards of training are maintained.

She is particularly keen to bring on younger members of the team and her interest in encouraging young people is continued through her full-time job teaching in the local primary school.

She is also a mother-of-two and has enlisted her husband, mother and stepfather into volunteering at the station and fundraising branch.

Speaking about receiving her aware, Vivienne said: “I am honoured and extremely proud to receive an MBE for my work with the RNLI. I have been on the crew at Little and Broad Haven for over 25 years and I have been very lucky to serve with so many amazing crew and members of the wider RNLI family.

“Little Haven is a small community and this award recognises the hard work of the whole crew and also the support which the village gives the lifeboat. To know that when the pagers go off, we can go to sea and make a difference to someone’s life is why we volunteer and I am thankful and proud to be part of the RNLI.”

RNLI Chief Executive Paul Boissier said: “There is no doubt that Vivienne is a shining light at Little and Broad Haven RNLI, galvanising and motivating the crew, fundraisers, local community and her primary school students with her exceptional dedication and all round wonderful positivity.

“She is held in the upmost regard by all the crew and this is due to her extensive experience, knowledge and professionalism – having the highest attendance for shouts at the station exemplifies her dedication.”

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

24 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.”