News

Sheep farmer ‘simply couldn’t cope’

Published

11 years ago

March 14, 2014

A NARBERTH man has been ordered to complete 240 hours of unpaid work after being found guilty of 25 charges of animal neglect. Lyn Williams, aged 32, previously of Hill Farm, Ludchurch, pleaded guilty to 25 charges of animal neglect towards his sheep.

A video containing footage of dead and neglected sheep was shown in the court.

Prosecutor, Simon Morgan said: “Some sheep were showing loss of wool and were lame. On January 29 a visit was conducted by Mrs Lucy Thomas from the Animal Welfare, who found several dead sheep around the barns. Some were decomposing and others were still warm.”

Mrs Thomas stated that the lamb’s condition scores were marked at 0.5, with 0 being razor thin and 5 being well fed and nutritioned. The animals had not received any care or treatment, and even though food and water had been placed, they were able to get to the food and water because they were too weak to stand. Sheep were being forced to walk on their knees due to untrimmed and overgrown hooves, some of which had split, therefore causing extreme pain.

“Some sheep had glazed and sunken eyes, others with unusual head posture called ‘Stargazing’. Sheep that had been shot were laid out side by side, and no effort was made to treat the sheep before being destroyed”. Mr Morgan said: “Pregnant ewes had been aborting due to the distress and others had had their eyes pecked out by birds. Skeletons of sheep were found near the stream on the edge of the farm who had tried to reach water, though were too weak to return. Williams did not pick up dead animals that were clearly visible. “One dead lamb had become entangled in bale wrap and another that was still alive was entwined in the wrap, which was around its neck and foreleg. It was only found from its feeble cries.

“The farm seriously over stocked on sheep and failed to provide nutrition for pregnant lambs. Many sheep were traumatised from being pecked by birds resulting in eye loss. Williams claims that a wild animal could have caused some of the deaths, but does not stand by that completely as no deaths were caused by attacks”. Defence solicitor, Mark Layton said: “Williams is a man of clean character and has been a father all of his adult life. The basis of plea is that it falls between short and medium in terms of neglect, which could be dealt with by a high level community order.

“I have to accept that there are a number of aggravating features, but consider the question of why things went wrong. There are three reasons for this: up until February, Williams was in partnership with his father who passed away. Williams was then left on his own, and he also had issues with his neighbours.

“He had applied to have wind turbines on his land, which his neighbours opposed. We also had a very harsh winter between December 2012 and March 2013. It was severely cold, and with 2000 sheep on a farm, it’s not unusual for sheep to die.

“In terms of the removal of the sheep, Williams used an external firm, therefore the pellets that had gone through the heads were not his fault and he did not have control over that. A letter from Tom Goddard and Sons shows regular visits were made to the farm, and although getting contractors to come out can sometimes be difficult, he was getting them there. “Invoices of food stocks and welfare material that exceeded £10,000 and vets bills had all been paid. Williams is not a man who was just ignoring his obligations, he just simply couldn’t cope. “He has lost his name and reputation and will have to live and come to terms with this. But please remember that during a 12 week period, things got bad and then better. The worst part was smack bang in the middle of the 12 weeks”.

Magistrates told the court: “We have listened carefully to what has been said and accept that managing livestock in winter is hard, and the percentage of dead stock was low. You were given a chance to tidy up, which you ignored. We are aware of the loss of your father and are going to sentence on the basis of plea.”

Magistrates ordered Williams to complete 240 hours of unpaid work within 12 months, and he was disqualified from keeping sheep for two years. He was also subject to fines and court costs, totalling at £7,774.

After the hearing, Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Member for Environmental and Regulatory Services, Councillor Huw George, said: “Mr Williams failed to act on advice offered to him from the Animal Health and Welfare Inspectors. The farm was found to be seriously overstocked during the winter of 2012.

“He failed to take prompt action to control a lameness and parasite problem within the flock resulting in dire consequences for the entire flock during a prolonged wet and cold winter.”

Business

Fresh flavours at new eatery in St Davids

Published

3 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A NEW brunch spot has opened its doors in St Davids, promising a delicious twist on classic dishes in a welcoming and vibrant setting.

The Brunch House, a passion project by hospitality duo Hannah Bowie and Adam Sawyer, opened at Oriel Y Parc Visitor Centre on Saturday (Nov 16), drawing over 250 visitors on its first day.

With more than two decades of combined industry experience, Hannah and Adam have transformed the space through extensive renovations, creating an inviting environment for locals and visitors alike.

Hannah, who previously ran 35 Main Street in Solva, shared her excitement: “Brunch is my favourite meal of the day, and bringing The Brunch House to life has been a dream come true. We’re thrilled to offer something fresh and unique to St Davids.”

The menu features an inspired blend of Middle Eastern flavours from Hannah’s heritage alongside brunch staples like the Full Welsh and Pancake Stack. Standout dishes, such as chicken and waffles drizzled with house-made hot maple sauce, have already earned rave reviews.

Ben Richardson, one of the first customers, said: “The chicken and waffles were absolutely delicious. We’re already planning our next visit.”

The eatery’s warm atmosphere and quality cuisine have struck a chord with the community. Bethany Ellison, a local customer, remarked: “What Hannah and Adam have created here is phenomenal. The ambience, combined with the exceptional food, makes this place truly special. I wish them every success.”

Adam added: “We’ve worked hard to make The Brunch House our own, and the support from locals and holidaymakers has been incredible. It’s been amazing to see so many people walk through our doors already.”

The Brunch House is open daily from 9:30am to 4:00pm, with food served until 3:00pm.

Pictured above – Brunch with a twist: The Brunch House in St Davids run by Adam Sawyer and Hannah Bowie is the newest spot to enjoy freshly made dishes

Community

Kick off the festive season in style at the Riverside Winter Fair

Published

3 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

GET ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as Haverfordwest hosts its inaugural Riverside Winter Fair on Saturday, November 30th.

This free, family-friendly event promises a day of festive cheer with food, arts, crafts, games, music, and a big dose of community spirit.

The festivities will kick off at 11am with the opening of Haverhub’s Winter Market. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls 11am to 5pm, offering unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food.

Alongside the market, Haverfordwest’s Business Circle are hosting a “Taste of Pembrokeshire” food and drink market on Castle Square 11am to 5pm, offering a delicious selection of local produce.

For families with younger children, Fair Play will be hosting a Board Game Sketch Fest at the Edge Youth Centre / Picton Centre from 11am to 5pm. This event will feature a variety of games, activities, and art projects, providing a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.

At 12noon children from Haverfordwest’s primary schools will be showing off banners they’ve been making as part of a community arts project, telling the story of the history of their school’s ward area.

They will take part in a vibrant parade led by the South Wales Police Band, marching through the town centre from Swan Square to the Old Quay. Join us at 11:45am on Swan Square to join the parade!

Once the parade reaches the Old Quay, the real fun begins. The main stage will host a variety of performances throughout the day from 12-5pm and Bristol Trader will be hosting an outdoor BBQ and bar for revellers.

Entertainment on the main stage will include a brand-new cantata performed by Fenton School’s children’s choir, the Cantabile Singers of Pembrokeshire, the County Orchestra and the South Wales Police Brass Band.

This captivating performance will tell the story of Haverfordwest’s rich history, drawing inspiration from recent archaeological discoveries.

Following the cantata, local band Sorted will take to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance of Ska and Two-Tone classics. Their energetic and breakneck live sets are guaranteed to get you up on your feet and skanking.

And for the grand finale Pure West Radio Riverside Shopping Haverfordwest will be hosting its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event. The celebrations begin at 12noon, leading up to the grand moment when the town’s Christmas lights illuminate at 6pm. As the town illuminates with festive lights, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky.

For those seeking thrills, there will be fairground rides to enjoy. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the excitement of the various rides.

To add to the magic, Santa Claus will be making a special appearance, along with Sparkle the Elf and Friends a Giant Snow Globe and Bouncy Castle!

Artists Neil Musson and Jono Retallick will also be launching their model hot air balloon, a floating gallery and homage to the people of Haverfordwest. Find them floating through the town throughout the day.

The Riverside Winter Fair is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Local businesses and volunteers coming together to create a memorable experience for everyone.

Visit the website and sign up to the mailing list for full information delivered to your inbox ahead of the big day: www.riversidewinterfair.co.uk

Programme of events

11am-5pm Winter Market @ Haverhub

11am-5pm Taste of Pembrokeshire food and drink market @ Castle Square

11am-5pm Board Game Sketch Fest @ Picton Centre

11:45am Banner Parade assembles with South Wales Police Brass Band @ Swan Square

12noon Children’s Banner Parade from Swan Square to Old Quay

12:10pm Entertainment on Main Stage @ Old Quay

12-5pm BBQ and outdoor bar @ The Bristol Trader

12-6pm Family fun & Entertainment, Pure West Radio @ Riverside shopping Centre

6pm Switch on of the lights and fireworks display.

Charity

Pembrokeshire charities shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards

Published

4 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THREE Pembrokeshire organisations have been shortlisted for this year’s Welsh Charity Awards, set to take place on Monday (Nov 25) at the National Museum Cardiff.

The event, which coincides with the start of Welsh Charities Week, celebrates the contributions of charities, community groups, and volunteers across Wales. Representing the county are Milford Haven’s Megan’s Starr Foundation and Milford Youth Matters, alongside Narberth-based SPAN Arts.

The awards, organised by WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action), are the only event dedicated to honouring the voluntary sector in Wales. A record 239 nominations were received this year.

Megan’s Starr Foundation

MEGAN’S STARR FOUNDATION, founded by Nicola Harteveld, is nominated in the Health and Wellbeing category, sponsored by Leaderful Action. The charity supports young people in Pembrokeshire facing mental health challenges, providing free counselling, peer support, and skill-building programmes.

The team said: “This nomination celebrates the heart and soul of our work. Every young person, volunteer, and family member who finds hope and belonging at Megan’s Starr is part of this incredible journey.

“Winning would inspire us to dream bigger, support more, and build a stronger, compassionate future together.”

Harteveld was Volunteer of the Year at last year’s awards.

Milford Youth Matters

MILFORD YOUTH MATTERS has been shortlisted for Fundraiser of the Year, co-sponsored by Thomas Carroll and Zurich Municipal. A fundraising team of seven young individuals, aged 15, has raised £10,000 annually through events such as a charity golf day, reshaping perceptions of young people in Milford Haven.

A spokesperson said: “This nomination recognises the dedication and hard work of our team, who have raised vital funds while developing skills and confidence to reach their full potential. We are extremely proud of their commitment.”

SPAN Arts

SPAN ARTS, based in Narberth, is a finalist in the Welsh Language category, sponsored by Mentrau Iaith. The organisation delivers bilingual arts programmes that celebrate community identity, inclusivity, and accessibility.

Director Bethan Touhig-Gamble said: “SPAN is based in an incredible bilingual county, where the Welsh language is part of the shared culture and identity. To have the work of our volunteers, trustees, staff, and creatives recognised is truly rewarding.”

WCVA Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “We’re delighted to have had a record number of nominations this year – 239 in total. That’s testimony to the quality work undertaken by volunteers, community groups, and charities across Wales. I couldn’t be more excited to meet the finalists on Monday and find out who’s scooped the top awards.”

The Welsh Charity Awards highlight the difference made by charities and volunteers across the country. For a full list of finalists, visit the Welsh Charity Awards website.

(Cover image: Milford Youth Matters receive a cheque from Tesco)