SAUNDERSFOOT’S Christmas lights were officially switched on this evening (Saturday, 6 December), with hundreds turning out in wet and windy conditions to welcome Santa, enjoy live music and celebrate the start of the village’s festive season.

The annual event began with performances from local singers and community choirs, who brought warmth to the cold evening with carols outside businesses in the heart of the village. Singers dressed in bright pink hats drew a large crowd as they performed under the twinkling canopy of lights.

The parade followed shortly after, led by a tractor decorated with illuminated antlers and towing Santa in his sleigh. Elves in festive costumes accompanied the convoy along the high street, waving to families who lined the pavements despite the rain.

Santa was joined by popular mascots including the RNLI lifeboat crewman, a giant crab character, and a familiar rugby mascot, stopping for photos with excited children throughout the evening. Many queued to meet Father Christmas at a glowing, bauble-shaped light installation — one of the most popular photo spots of the night.

As the countdown reached zero, the village’s towering Christmas tree burst into light, followed by the illuminated “Welcome to Saundersfoot” sign that frames the entrance to the village centre. Cheers rang out as the decorations lit up the night sky, marking the official start of Saundersfoot’s Christmas period.

Local businesses remained open late, and Harbwr Bar & Kitchen provided a bright backdrop as families gathered to watch Santa depart on his sleigh.

Despite the conditions, organisers said the turnout was “fantastic” and thanked volunteers, the Saundersfoot community groups, and emergency services for helping the evening run smoothly.

Photos: Gareth Davies/Herald

PEMBROKE Town Hall was packed on Friday afternoon (Dec 5) as the Pembroke Young at Heart group held its annual Christmas service and dinner.

The well-attended event brought together members from across the community for an afternoon of music, food and festive celebration.

A freshly prepared Christmas meal was served, with organisers giving special thanks to Dai Powell, who cooked the dinner, and to the team of volunteers who helped run the event. The helpers included Liz, Ann, Anne, Kaylee, Jayne, Dennis, Jo, Gareth, Jenny, Rob, Mo, Heidi and Will.

Pembroke Town Council said the afternoon would not have been possible without the support of its volunteers, who ensured the hall was decorated, guests were welcomed, and everyone left in the Christmas spirit.

The event forms part of the council’s programme of activities for older residents during the festive season.

Defendant due back in court on Monday ahead of February trial

A PEMBROKE man has appeared in court accused of threatening to kill local newspaper editor Tom Sinclair during a phone call, as well as a separate racially aggravated harassment charge involving a police officer.

Anthony Jones, aged thirty-four, of Castle Quarry, Long Mains, Monkton, was in Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court earlier this week and will return on Monday (Dec 8) for a further mention. His full trial is listed for February.

Jones faces two charges.

Racially aggravated harassment

The first allegation relates to an incident on 8 April 2025 in Pembroke. He is accused of using threatening or abusive words or behaviour towards PC823 Stuart Gray, causing harassment, alarm or distress. Prosecutors say the offence was racially aggravated under section 28 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

Threat to kill during phone call

The second charge alleges that on 24 February 2025, also in Pembroke, Jones made a phone call in which he threatened to kill Mr Sinclair, contrary to section 181 of the Online Safety Act 2023.

Prosecutors say the call conveyed a threat of death and that Jones intended — or was reckless as to whether — the threat would make the recipient fear it would be carried out.

Next steps

Monday’s hearing will be an administrative mention. Jones remains on court bail, and a full trial is scheduled for February 2026.