News

Captain jailed after Castlemartin death

Published

6 years ago

July 25, 2018

AN ARMY CAPTAIN has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after a Ranger was killed during a live firing exercise at the Castlemartin range.

The Army has also dismissed Captain Jonathan Price by the court martial, for the gross negligence manslaughter of Ranger Michael Maguire.

Lieutenant colonel Richard Bell and Warrant Officer Class 2 Stuart Pankhurst were also convicted of negligently performing a duty, after Maguire, 21, was hit by a straight bullet.

Col Bell has lost one year’s seniority as a Lieutenant colonel, which could affect the prospect of future promotion, while WO2 Pankhurst was fined £3,000 for his involvement in the incident.

The court martial at Bulford were told that the soldiers on one range were firing directly at those on the adjacent range, roughly 0.6 miles (1km) away, and so visible to each other. Ranger Maguire, of the 1st Battalion, Royal Irish Regiment, was one of many soldiers to come under machine gun fire, before being killed by a shot in the forehead.

Nigel Lickley QC, prosecuting, told the hearing that such was Price’s ‘total disregard for the safety of his men that a public beach 3km away and anyone on it was put at risk of being hit, such was the range of the weapons being used’.

Mr Lickley added that: “It’s fortunate there were not more casualties.”

Lt Col Bell and WO2 Pankhurst helped organise the May 2012 drill, and in an 2013 inquest it was ruled that Ranger Maguire was unlawfully killed.

Both were convicted, after it was heard that they had not been present at the range reconnaissance when preparing a Range Action Safety Plan and went on to place targets too close together.

Ranger Maguire was educated at St Goban’s College near Bantry, County Cork in the Republic of Ireland. He joined the Royal Irish Regiment in May 2010, and went on to serve in Afghanistan, having the nickname ‘High Tower’ on account of being 6ft 7in (2m) tall.

In a victim impact statement, Jimmy Maguire, brother of the Ranger, said Michael ‘should still be alive’.
He went on to say: “We did not want someone to go to prison or lose their careers…. we take no comfort in the verdicts no matter what they are. It will not bring Mike back.”

The Maguire family, of Bantry, were said to be still coming to terms with the loss and its ‘needlessness’.

Mathew Sherratt QC, representing Price, explained that the officer had recently married and had a 10-year-old stepson, and so urged the court to impose a suspended sentence.

Mr Sherratt said: “It was his dream to be in the regiment. He accepts that is finished and that is huge punishment.”

After the hearing, Puneet Rai, representing Bell, said the Ministry of Defence accepted that there were failings in the system which contributed to Maguire’s death.

She said: “Since the day of this incident Col Bell has made it his personal crusade to make sure that the failings within the system are challenged.”

Speaking after the hearing, Col Marcus Simson, of the Army Personnel Services Group, offered his condolences to Ranger Maguire’s family.

Simson said: “What happened in May 2012 at Castlemartin ranges should not have occurred.”

The colonel added that training procedures at the time had been ‘fit for purpose’, but that they ‘must always look to improve and we have learned from the tragic and unnecessary incident and have tightened them further’.

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

15 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

15 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

15 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.