News
Milford Haven: Crew of pilot boat Picton saved boy’s life
THE CREW of a Milford Haven pilot boat saved a boy who could not swim, after he fell into the water off Ward’s Pier on Sunday (May 27).
HM Coastguard was alerted by a 999 call placed by one of the boy’s friends at around 7.30pm – but luckily a pilot boat, The Picton, was nearby and the crew were on scene within a five minutes to find the boy only being kept afloat by his rucksack.
The teenager was conscious enough to hold onto a life ring and was recovered to the pilot boat where he was taken back to shore.
Roger Reed, senior operations officer at HM Coastguard, said: “This was a very serious incident and could have had a very different outcome.”
“We also cannot praise Milford Haven Port Authority and the crew of the pilot boat enough – their immediate response to our call for assistance ultimately saved this boy’s life
Milford Haven Coastguard told The Herald that the pilot boat crew confirmed that when they reached the boy he was likely minutes from succumbing to the cold water.
The RNLI said that the Angle Lifeboat was stood down before launching due to the fact response of the Picton’s crew.
The Port of Milford Haven is warning members of the public to stay away from Ward’s Yard after the incident.
The site was purchased by the Port last year and a great deal of work has been undertaken to make sure it is secure including additional fencing, signage and CCTV. There have been numerous occasions where the fencing has been cut and warning signs have been removed which leaves the site accessible, putting lives in danger.
Ward’s Yard is private property and anyone there without consent is trespassing. Anyone caught causing criminal damage could face prosecution.
Wayne Evans, Health, Safety and Security Manager at the Port of Milford Haven, said “We are issuing this warning in the interest of public safety. The site has not been operational for a number of years so there are serious hazards which can cause injuries or worse. There are many other picturesque locations along the waterway that people can enjoy both safely and without committing any criminal offences.”
Anyone who sees any suspicious activity at Ward’s Yard is asked to contact Dyfed Powys Police on 101 or the Port of Milford Haven’s estates team on 01646 696380.
Charity
Communities across Pembrokeshire unite in memory of Sally Allen
THE TRAGIC loss of Sally Allen in 2025 sent shockwaves through communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Deeply loved and widely respected, Sally was an integral part of the agricultural and equestrian world. Her sudden passing left an immeasurable sense of loss for her family, friends, and the many organisations and communities she was part of.
In the days and weeks following the accident, people from across the county came together in an extraordinary show of compassion, solidarity and remembrance. Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity was on hand to offer guidance and support to communities affected by the tragedy, helping individuals and families navigate the early and often overwhelming stages of grief.

Support in Sally’s memory has been widespread, with particular strength coming from the agricultural and equestrian sectors that meant so much to her. Young Farmers Clubs across Pembrokeshire organised fundraising evenings and gatherings, creating spaces for people to come together, share memories, and acknowledge the profound loss felt by so many.
On Monday 15 December, a deeply moving moment of remembrance took place as Sally’s family came together with David Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Clynderwen and Cardiganshire Farmers Ltd (CCF), along with further representatives from CCF and Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity. The occasion marked the launch of a specially commissioned design on one of CCF’s lorries.
The vehicle, N12 CCF, now proudly carries sunflowers – a flower Sally loved – alongside her name, celebrating her life while also featuring the Sandy Bear logo. This thoughtful tribute was warmly received by the Allen family and ensures that Sally’s memory, kindness and impact will continue to be carried far and wide.

CCF is deeply rooted in the landscapes and communities Sally cared about. At the launch, Mr Evans announced that CCF will make a donation to Sandy Bear aligned with the miles travelled by N12 CCF throughout January, transforming everyday journeys into a lasting legacy of support.
In addition, a JustGiving page will remain open until the end of January, allowing individuals and organisations to continue honouring Sally’s memory by supporting Sandy Bear alongside the CCF fundraiser.
Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity supports children and young people across Wales who are grieving the death of someone important to them. Being present at times of profound loss, and helping communities process grief with care and compassion, is at the heart of the charity’s work.
Sally Allen’s life touched many. The response to her passing has shown not only the depth of love felt for her, but the strength of communities when they come together in kindness. Through these acts of remembrance and generosity, her legacy will continue to make a difference to others during their darkest moments.
Crime
Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl
Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027
A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.
Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.
The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.
The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.
Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.
The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.
Crime
Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub
Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday
DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).
An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.
Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).
The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.
- Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.
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