News
Pembroke Dock: Lantern parade brings town together
PEMBROKE DOCK was the place to be on Friday (Dec 1) when the community organised Lanterns in the Park parade kickstarted a weekend of events in the town.
Over 600 people packed into the Memorial Park to enjoy the spectacular parade led by Samba Doc ,who set the pace in front of 200 lantern paraders snaking around the park’s paths.
The lanterns were made by Sand Palace Arts at community workshops funded by Pembroke Dock Festival Group.
Groups who made lanterns included, Pennar Hall Art Club, Messy Church, Pembroke Dock Scouts and Girl Guides as well as community members at open weekend workshops.
Large lanterns included an owl, fox badger and Sunderland the flying pig of Pennar. An Air Ambulance lantern with a rotating rotor blade took park.
After the parade the huge crowd was treated to a spectacular 20 minute fire show which included fireworks and pyrotechnics. Pembrokeshire Fire Spinners show dazzled the crowd with their fire juggling and spinning skills, sending sparks which lit up the park and night sky.
Pyro artist Lee Berridge set his 18 foot structure of an owl in a tree alight which drew a huge gasp from the audience and fireworks donated by West Coast Fireworks lit up the structure which was a fantastic spectacle.
Father Christmas appeared and mingled in the crown greeting excited children and handing out sweets.
Samba doc then led the crowds to the park gates with another performance and after getting the crowd warmed up the fun continued at the Pater Hall where the Festival Group provided free hot dogs and hot chocolate for over 300 people who were entertained by Fusion Community Choir with Father Christmas again mingling and collecting letters from the little ones.
Summing up the event Liz Cook, Community Activist, said: “Lanterns in the Park showed what the Dock can make possible when it pulls together.
“Three weeks ago the parade was not happening but over 30 people from the local community got the job done free of charge. and by working together with the Festival Group and Town Council a fabulous event took place. I’ve never seen the Pater Hall and park so packed out, the atmosphere and community spirit was amazing.
“As an informal group we will be working together in the New Year to organise the Midsummer and Winter festivals for the community. A huge thank you to everyone who helped in any way we all did our town proud.
“We couldn’t have done it with local businesses who also donated goods and time including B&M, Pembroke Dock Hire Centre, Rembrandt’s Jewellers and Parfitt’s Carpets.”
Hundreds of photos from the night can be viewed on the Lanterns in the Park Facebook page. If you would like to help out next year contact Liz Cook on 01646 621811.
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
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.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
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.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
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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