News

Castlemartin: Commanding officer pays tribute to soldiers killed on range

Published

9 years ago

June 17, 2017

THE TWO soldiers who died after ammunition is believed to have exploded inside their tank have been described as ‘exceptionally talented’ by their commanding officer.

Cpl Matthew Hatfield and Cpl Darren Neilson, of the Royal Tank Regiment, died after an explosion inside their vehicle during a live firing exercise at Castlemartin on Wednesday (Jun 14).

Lt Col Simon Ridgway said the soldiers ‘really loved what they did’ and the unit had ‘lost two real characters and feels truly honoured to have served with them’.

The four-man crew of the Challenger 2 main battle tank was firing 120mm practice shells at targets on the Castlemartin Ranges in Pembrokeshire when the explosion occurred.

A spokesman for the MoD told The Herald: “A ban on tank live firing training has been put in place until the findings of the investigation are known. Further action will follow as appropriate.”

Corporal ‘Daz’ Neilson

Corporal ‘Daz’ Neilson joined the Army in 2004 serving with both the 1st and 2nd Royal Tank Regiments before they amalgamated into the Royal Tank Regiment. He was a real character within his crew, troop, squadron and the regiment and he had the respect of all those he worked with due to his professionalism, easy going nature and natural leadership style.

While happy in any crew position, Daz had a real talent for gunnery and this was the area he specialised in, becoming a Challenger 2 gunnery instructor and commander. He recently returned to the regiment and joined BADGER, a Challenger 2 squadron, as a Troop Corporal and gunnery instructor. His passion for his career in general, and gunnery in particular, was obvious and many of our soldiers have improved their skills as a result of his dedication and experience.

Because of his character Daz was selected to be part of the Army Recruiting Team in Preston where a combination of his dry sense of humour and clear enthusiasm for being in the military played a key part in helping recruit soldiers. Being a real family man this was also a chance to spend quality time with them.

During his time as a soldier Daz deployed on operations to Iraq and Afghanistan and spent a huge amount of time on exercise on Salisbury Plain helping train future tank commanders or conducting low level training. Always at the centre of the action he could be counted on to make people laugh whatever the circumstances and we all feel incredibly privileged to have known him. His sudden loss is devastating and his family are in our thoughts and prayers at this incredibly difficult time.

Corporal Matthew ‘Hattie’ Hatfield

From a very early age Corporal Matthew ‘Hattie’ Hatfield wanted to join the Army and as soon as he was old enough he started basic training at the Army Training Regiment in Harrogate. Having finished the Challenger 2 drivers’ course in Bovington he joined the Queen’s Royal Hussars and while doing a job at the Armoured Trials and Development Unit he transferred into the Royal Tank Regiment to be closer to his mother, sister, fiancée and daughter.

Hattie was an utterly professional, incredibly hard working and exceptionally well liked soldier. Whether as a tank driver, gunner, operator or commander, Hattie was in his element. He was a man who loved soldiering, loved being part of a crew and loved having a laugh with everyone he worked with. He was an excellent role model and mentor for junior soldiers and he always put others before himself. He spent his evenings and weekends volunteering with the local Army Cadet Force inspiring the next generation of soldiers using his wealth of experience.

During his career he deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan and took part in numerous exercises in Germany, the UK, Oman, Brunei and Canada. He was identified as having all the skills necessary to be a very effective tank commander and having completed the course he was then selected to be a Challenger 2 gunnery instructor. He was a natural teacher and everyone benefitted from his enthusiasm, knowledge and desire to help others be the best they could be.

Hattie had recently started a new job as a Troop Corporal and gunnery instructor in BADGER, one of the Challenger 2 squadrons, and had already made his mark as a real team player and his significant potential was obvious. A genuine wind-up merchant, he would have a laugh and a joke at every opportunity and everyone enjoyed being in his company. He was an enthusiastic and fiercely competitive rugby and cricket player who enjoyed being on the pitch but also enjoyed the banter in the bar after a game.

Hattie was an excellent soldier who we are honoured to have served with and we are devastated by his untimely death and his family’s loss. All our thoughts and prayers are with them at this incredibly difficult time.

The MoD, Dyfed-Powys Police and Health and Safety Executive are investigating.

Tank live firing exercises by British military have also been suspended at the site as a precaution.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

14 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

14 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

14 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.