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Police recruiting cadets in south of the county

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SPENDING a week at a junior police academy in America, attending the royal wedding, and making lifelong friends – these are just some of the opportunities Volunteer Police Cadets at Dyfed-Powys Police have experienced.

For the past two years, teenagers in Ammanford, Carmarthenshire, and Newtown, Powys, have been part of the cadets scheme, which gives them an insight into policing and offers unique experiences.

There is now a chance for teenagers to put their names forward to join the cadets as Dyfed-Powys Police relaunches a branch of the scheme in South Pembrokeshire. Leaders are calling out for the next group of Volunteer Police Cadets (VPCs), who will start in September, and current cadets are encouraging school pupils to apply.

Volunteer Police Cadet Cheyenne Kirby, who has just returned from a week-long exchange visit to Maryland in America, said: “Personally, I think it’s the most amazing experience ever, and I would definitely recommend joining.

“It is a great opportunity to gain more skills, such as teamwork and communication, as well as learning about the police. I’ve really enjoyed being with the cadets, and since being with them I’ve wanted to join the police in the future.”

Cadets meet regularly and have the opportunity to get involved with voluntary and community work in and around Newtown. They learn vital skills including first aid, communication, problem-solving and leadership, which they develop through ongoing training with the force.

Previous intakes of cadets have represented the police at Remembrance Day parades, helped some of the most vulnerable in the community during Christmas campaigns and have had the chance to learn about various sections of the police force.

Four cadets from Newtown were selected to take part in Dyfed-Powys Police’s first exchange visit to the US, when they were put through their paces at the South Maryland Junior Police Academy – an experience they would never have had if not for the cadet scheme.

VPC Tomos Chick said: “I’m glad I took the opportunity – the idea to come to America for the academy both scared and exited me initially. I didn’t know what to expect, and the culture shock was gruelling. But this programme was a life-altering decision, and I cannot repeat that enough.”

Pembrokeshire cadet Will Lloyd and Ammanford cadet Ffion Jenkins were chosen as Lord Lieutenant cadets this year, and have had the chance to rub shoulders with royalty at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

VPC Ffion said: “I expected to be standing with everyone on the streets by the castle, but I was shocked to find out that I have been invited to the grounds of Windsor Castle.

“I was proud, excited and very honoured to be invited to his historic event.”

South Pembrokeshire cadet leader Andrew Griffiths said: “Joining the police cadets is an excellent opportunity to get to know the police service, engage with the community you live in, and take part in events and experiences that you might not otherwise have the chance to.

“The skills cadets learn range from team building and communication, to confidence and self-awareness, which will set them up for any career they choose to pursue.”

The group is looking to recruit cadets who are currently in school years 8 and 9 at Greenhill, Tenby and Pembroke comprehensive schools. Anyone interested in applying can pick up an application form from PCSO Andrew Griffiths at Tenby police station, or at the schools’ receptions.

 

Entertainment

Free waterfront cinema screening to celebrate start of school holidays

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FAMILIES are being invited to celebrate the start of the school holidays with a free outdoor screening of Disney-Pixar favourite Finding Nemo at Milford Waterfront.

The Torch Theatre will launch its 2026 Sunset Cinema season at Mackerel Quay on Friday, July 17, with the marina and Milford Haven Waterway providing the backdrop.

Sponsored by Milford Waterfront, the family screening will be shown on the Torch Theatre’s new outdoor LED cinema screen. Gates will open at 1pm, with the film beginning at 2.30pm.

Admission is free, although tickets should be booked in advance through the Torch Theatre.

The entertainment will continue into the evening with a screening of the 1980s classic Back to the Future at 7pm.

Tickets for the evening film can also be purchased through the Torch Theatre website. Audiences are encouraged to arrive from 6pm and bring their own chairs and blankets.

A selection of food and drink vendors will be available throughout the afternoon and evening.

Lucy Wonnacott, Head of Communications and Marketing at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Summer starts here. We’re delighted to kick off the Torch Theatre’s 2026 Sunset Cinema season and the school holidays with a free waterside screening of Finding Nemo.

“Then, as the sun goes down, film fans can buy tickets to join us for the ultimate time-travelling adventure, Back to the Future.

“There’s something special about watching a great film by the water, and we’re looking forward to welcoming families, friends and visitors for a day of cinema, community and summer memories at Milford Waterfront.”

Chelsey Gillard, from the Torch Theatre, added: “We’re incredibly pleased to be partnering with Milford Waterfront to offer this special Sunset Cinema screening completely free for our community.

“Watching Finding Nemo on Mackerel Quay is going to be absolutely magical. Bring a deckchair, gather the family and join Nemo, Dory and Marlin for an unforgettable adventure on the big screen.

“Let’s just hope Bruce the shark doesn’t decide to make an appearance. What a fantastic way to celebrate the end of term and kick off the summer holidays.”

Tickets for both screenings should be booked in advance through the Torch Theatre booking office.

Further details about events taking place at Milford Waterfront this summer can be found on the Milford Waterfront website.

Photo caption: Families can enjoy a free outdoor screening of Finding Nemo at Milford Waterfront on Friday, July 17.

 

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Health

One in three Welsh adults self-medicate for anxiety or stress, survey suggests

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WALES has recorded the highest rate of self-medication for anxiety and stress of any UK region, according to a new healthcare survey.

The STADA Health Report 2026 found that 31 per cent of adults surveyed in Wales said they self-medicated to manage anxiety or stress.

That was almost six percentage points above the UK average of 25.2 per cent.

The report also found comparatively low levels of trust in artificial intelligence for healthcare, alongside concerns about access to services, ageing and the amount of health information people are expected to navigate.

Just 38.5 per cent of Welsh respondents said they would trust AI to make a health diagnosis, the lowest rate recorded among the UK regions surveyed and well below the national average of 52.3 per cent.

Fewer than half, 42.4 per cent, said they would consider having a health consultation using AI, compared with 49.5 per cent across the UK.

Satisfaction with the public healthcare system was also lower in Wales. Some 57.9 per cent of Welsh respondents said they were satisfied, compared with a UK average of 65.1 per cent.

The findings form part of an international study commissioned by pharmaceutical manufacturer STADA Thornton & Ross and carried out by market research company Human8 Consulting.

A total of 2,001 adults were surveyed in the UK during February and March 2026, as part of a wider study involving 19,514 respondents across 20 countries. The company has not stated in the press material how many of the UK participants were based in Wales.

Concerns about ageing and access to care

More than two-thirds of Welsh respondents, 66.8 per cent, said they feared becoming dependent on care as they grew older.

That compared with a UK average of 54.3 per cent.

More than half of those surveyed in Wales, 55.4 per cent, also said they felt overwhelmed by the amount of health information available, against 47.7 per cent nationally.

The report’s authors said the findings suggested that some people were increasingly relying on self-management when they felt unable to access timely professional support.

However, the term “self-medication” can cover a range of behaviours, including the use of non-prescription medicines, supplements or other substances without direct advice from a healthcare professional.

Craig Shaw, general manager for STADA UK, said: “When one in three adults say they are self-medicating for anxiety or stress, it suggests many people are looking for practical ways to manage their wellbeing, but may not always feel they have access to the support they need at the right time.

“While trust in AI health tools is lower in Wales than elsewhere in the UK, the data also reinforces the enduring importance of trusted, face-to-face healthcare.

“Community pharmacists are uniquely placed to provide accessible advice, reassurance and guidance, helping people make informed decisions about managing their health and knowing when additional support is needed.”

STADA Thornton & Ross manufactures healthcare products including Covonia, Cetraben, Hedrin, Savlon and Zoflora, as well as generic and specialist medicines.

Anyone experiencing anxiety or stress is advised to speak to a GP, pharmacist or another qualified healthcare professional before taking medication that has not been prescribed for them.

 

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Entertainment

Ashmole & Co to sponsor Wales YFC dance competition at Royal Welsh

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ASHMOLE & CO, one of mid and west Wales’ largest bilingual accountancy firms, is delighted to be supporting Wales YFC by sponsoring its dance competition at this month’s Royal Welsh Show.

The firm has worked closely with the Welsh farming community since it was established in 1897 and remains deeply committed to the agricultural sector.

Many of Ashmole & Co’s partners and staff are past or present members of Wales YFC and have benefited personally and professionally from their involvement with the organisation.

Supporting the next generation of farmers and rural leaders is therefore of great importance to the firm.

The Royal Welsh Show is one of the highlights of the year for YFC members, with competitions including shearing, dancing, stock judging and flower arranging.

The dance competition sponsored by Ashmole & Co will take place on the main YFC stage on Tuesday, July 21, from 1pm.

Ceri Llwyd, a partner at Ashmole & Co’s Llandovery and Llandeilo offices, said: “As the auditor of Wales YFC, we understand the importance of this bilingual rural youth organisation in helping young people become successful farmers, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens.

“It has been an honour to work with Wales YFC over many years. We have developed an excellent working relationship, and I very much hope this will continue for many years to come.

“We would like to wish everyone competing at the Royal Welsh Show the very best of luck and hope they enjoy the tremendous experience.

“I will be there on Tuesday to watch the competition and show my support.”

Wales YFC is a vibrant organisation that encourages young people to take responsibility and play an active role in their communities while developing their skills through a wide range of member-led programmes and activities.

The organisation has more than 5,000 members aged between 10 and 28, as well as thousands of supporters, volunteers, parents and friends.

Mared Rand Jones, chief executive of Wales YFC, said: “The Royal Welsh Show is the pinnacle of the year for YFC members, and we look forward to seeing them once again representing their counties and competing in a wide variety of competitions.

“Wales YFC will be showcasing the very best of its membership, and the public will be entertained throughout the four days of the show.

“We thank Ashmole & Co for its tremendous support. As a charity, we depend on generous sponsorship to provide activities and competitions for our members.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Wales YFC Centre during the show.”

The 2026 Royal Welsh Show will take place from Monday, July 20, to Thursday, July 23.

Widely regarded as one of the leading events in the British agricultural calendar, the show will feature four days of livestock and equine competitions, forestry, horticulture, crafts, countryside sports, shopping, food and drink, alongside a packed daily programme of entertainment, attractions and displays.

 

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