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County Councillor can’t bring himself to vote at the general election

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Paul Dowson at the 2017 election count: At Sir Thomas Picton School (pic: The Herald)

A NEWLY elected member of Pembrokeshire County Council has taken to social media to say that he will not be voting at the general election.

County Councillor Paul Dowson, who scraped into a seat in Pembroke Dock Central ward by just a few votes, and who says that he is a firm believer that every vote counts, has admitted that he cannot be comfortable with voting for any party on June 8.

In the Facebook rant on the Pembrokeshire Council Watch group, he said today (May 16): “I am a big advocate for not wasting a vote, especially since winning my own campaign by just four votes.

“Having said this I will technically be wasting my vote in the general election. There isn’t one party I would be comfortable voting for.

“Tories are exactly as majority of people say and could someone like me ever associate myself with that brand of politics. Elitist toffs with no sense of what the real world is about. Crap leader and no one with an ounce of leadership essentials waiting in the wings

“Labour have gone from being a down to earth hard working persons party. To a bunch of molly coddled PC obsessed gang of spineless liberal hippies.

“Corbyn makes me want to shake him and give him the back of my hand. Has about 10% of the required elements to justify his existence as a Man! The other 90% are definitely girl or hippy derived.

“I think Mr Tierney is a good candidate but would not vote for him because of the labour party lacking courage. Sorry Marc.

“Liberal Democrats …yeah right.

“UKIP. .. Brilliant principles right ideas tick most of my boxes..

“Farage though not a hope wrong leader unvotable.

“The remainder of the parties… What benefits would there be for voting for a party with no hope?”

Cllr Dowson concluded: “I guess in my situation I have to waste my vote.”

The candidates for the Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire ward are Alistair Cameron, Welsh Liberal Democracts, Phil Edwards, UKIP Wales, Simon Hart, Welsh Conservative Party, Abi Thomas, Plaid Cymru The Party of Wales, Mac Tierney, Welsh Labour.

Speaking to The Herald, Cllr Downson said: “I am not a politician and I do not want to be a politician. I believe strongly in using your vote so I’d rather vote for a party I can trust than one I can’t trust.
“I couldn’t not use my vote but it will be for one of the political parties I personally have no faith in. I voted for Blair’s Labour, I voted for Thatcher even though I didn’t agree with all they stood for, but at the time they had good points. I disagree with a lot of the main parties’ attitudes and policies… granted all sides have points I believe in.
“I’m a councillor whose job it is to serve my people, not my people and my party. I am independent for that very reason – it shouldn’t matter which political party I support or don’t support, I’m not splitting my loyalties at this close to the people level.
“I support and serve the people of my ward regardless of my views on Corbyn or Farage or May (is she James May’s sister?). There are those who have started trolling me because of this but this is why I avoid politics – best leave that to the politicians. I make no apology for what I think about party leaders, it’s better to quote the truth than to quote a party statement.
“I have no idea why there are a handful of people who can’t accept that my loyalties are with my community and that I have my own opinions on political parties… I value my right to vote that should be the issue here not who I will vote for.”
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Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

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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.

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Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

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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.

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Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

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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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