News

Fishguard: Planned Barclays closure will leave town without a bank

Published

6 years ago

February 2, 2018

THE LAST bank in Fishguard will close its doors on May 18 for the final time, The Pembrokeshire Herald has learned.

Barclays Bank plc will shut its branch only days before the St Davids branch will also be consigned to the history books, on May 24.

The bank has blamed the use of the internet, banking apps and general fall in the numbers of customers using the branches, but politicians and community leaders have been concerned that the closures did not take into consideration the need of businesses and the elderly.

Stephanie Smith, Barclays Community Banking Director, told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “The way customers undertake their banking is changing as people increasingly use online, telephone and mobile devices.

“At Barclays Fishguard branch, customer usage has continued to decline, which is why we have taken the difficult decision to close it. Fishguard transactional volumes have declined 22 per cent within the last 24 months.

“We hope that the availability of our other Barclays branches at Haverfordwest, Cardigan and Narberth and access to banking services at the local Post Office currently located at 57, West St, Fishguard.

“Along with our range of digital channels will help to ease the transition for our customers.”

Recently both local conservative and Plaid politicians have been meeting with Natwest Bank who are also in the process of shutting local branches.

Plaid Cymru Assembly Member Simon Thomas has written to Barclays Bank asking them to think again over the proposals. Mid and West AM Simon Thomas told The Herald: “I’m written to Barclays Bank asking them to reconsider these closures.

“Plaid Cymru in Westminster has called for an improvement in the law to ensure high street banks consult effectively with the local community over closures.

“Plaid Cymru’s Westminster leader Liz Saville Roberts has called for changes to protect the last bank in town. We are now seeing often in our communities towns left without one bank.

“We cannot have a gap in the banking services available to rural and urban Wales. The Labour Government in Cardiff Bay should do more to promote alternatives to banks like credit unions.”

“A report on banking in Wales last year identified problems with lending to small and medium sized businesses, automation has made banks more geographically and operationally distant from small businesses.

“Bank closures contribute to this problem according to the Federation of Small Businesses. I’ve asked Barclays what measures they intend to take to mitigate this if they go ahead with closures.”

Many HSBC and Lloyds branches have already closed in Pembrokeshire, including in the county’s most populated down, Milford Haven.

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

5 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

5 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

6 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.