News
Inquest hears about ‘lack of consistency’ in teenager’s care
AN INQUEST into the death of 14-year-old Derek Brundrett has heard there was a ‘lack of consistency’ in his care.
Derek was found dead at Pembroke School in December 2013.
The inquest was told that Derek had ‘several’ social workers and foster carers, and attended three different schools, in the 20 months leading up to his death.
Despite being recommended for referral to Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services, he never received any treatment.
Derek’s social worker at the time of his death, Sharon Reynolds, said that she found the boy to be ‘remarkably resilient’ as well as ‘very adaptable’.
She went on to describe him as a ‘very materialistic boy’.
She said: “If he got his own way, his trainers, trips to McDonalds, he was happy.”
The inquest also heard about a note which was written by David Littlehead, a social worker who was worried about Derek.
He detailed an incident in which Derek was crying over the loss of a lighter.
Lloyd Williams QC, representing Derek’s mother, Kirstina Wray, questioned Mrs Reynolds about the fact being in foster care seemingly did not upset Derek, but losing a lighter did.
Mrs Reynolds said: “It would have been significant for him at the time because he was a smoker.
“The little things were important to him.”
Mrs Reynolds also commented on Derek once saying he would jump from a roof, calling it ‘bravado and his sense of humour’.
Mr Williams said: “That’s how you interpret these events, as his bravado and his sense of humour?”
Mrs Reynolds replied: “No, you’ve got to take a balanced approach and balance risk.”
Mr Williams then questioned her judgement, saying: “If you really believed that, your confidence in your judgement was entirely misplaced.”
The inquest continues.
News
Tigers second division Cup Champions
In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.
The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.
The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.
As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.
But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.
With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.
The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Crime
Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop
POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.
A window was smashed and the door handle broken.
Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”
News
Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2
THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.
Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.
They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.
A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.
This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.
If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.
You can only hand in your own postal vote, and postal votes for up to five other people.
You can find out more about the Police and Crime Commissioner Elections online (opens in new window).
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