News

Milford Haven: Fund started for injured cat

Published

5 years ago

January 18, 2019

A MILFORD HAVEN woman has taken to social media in a bid to help save her cat’s life.

Tamsin Mathias, aged 23 of St Annes Road, realised on Sunday morning (Jan 13) that her eight month old cat, Luna, was missing. Tamsin said she knew something was wrong after Luna didn’t come in for her breakfast that morning as usual, and her sister, Peppa, was meowing and walking around as if she was looking for her. Later on that day, Luna was found two doors up from her house, covered in her own excrement and struggling to use her back legs.

Tamsin said: “We found her in the front of our neighbour’s garden meowing really loud. I picked her up like a baby and carried her into the house, and as soon as we walked in through the front door she stopped meowing and was just really floppy.

“We wrapped her in a towel, and my other half got some warm water and a tea towel so I could clean her up. I started cleaning her and I noticed that there was a gap in the middle of her tail, and the more I looked at her the more I knew she needed urgent medical attention.”

Tamsin got in touch with All Pets Vet Care and made an emergency appointment for Luna. Half an hour later, Luna was receiving emergency medical treatment from two members of staff.

Tamsin said: “As soon as Billa examined Luna she could see that she had a tail pull injury – I’d never heard of it before, but it’s not great. Billa said straight away that Luna’s tail will most likely have to be removed, because the bones at the base of her tail had been shattered and her tail was limp.

“Luna’s temperature was down to 32.8 degrees, when it should be between 37-38, and she was in a huge amount of shock. Billa, with the help of Sian, managed to get Luna on a drip to get some fluids into her, and gave her some pain killers as well.”

Luna was given x-rays while conscious in an attempt to see what the damage was, however they didn’t depict everything. Tamsin was told that an x-ray needed to be done under general anaesthetic so that Luna could be placed on her back for the procedure. However, if she had undergone a general anaesthetic the night Tamsin brought Luna in, she wouldn’t have made it.

Tamsin went to visit Luna the next day, who said she seemed ‘a lot brighter’. The x-rays revealed a nasty break to Luna’s pelvis, and showed the shattering to the base of her tail.

Luna is currently on strong medication and is undergoing laser treatment to help reduce swelling. It’s important that she is able to go to the toilet by herself and show that she is continent. Tamsin said: “We were told that if Luna turns out the be incontinent, then there’s no point in her having an operation. Reading between the lines, I know what that means, and the thought of it is just so heartbreaking.

“I want to give her the best chance at life, so as long as there’s hope for her and the team at All Pets Vet Care are happy to keep treating her, then we’ll carry on fighting.”

Luna was able to come home on Thursday night (Jan 17) after spending four nights at All Pets Vet Care. Luna began showing signs that she wanted to use her litter tray, but still was unable to go.

Tamsin said: “I’ve done as much research as I can about tail pull injuries and pelvic fractures to try to prepare myself for every outcome. Luna had been leaking urine a little bit here and there, and she has to be expressed every day because she hasn’t yet gone for a wee by herself. But, when we took her home on Thursday, the first thing she did was go into her litter tray.

“She didn’t manage to go, but I thought it was a good sign.”

Luna had to go back to the vets on Friday morning (Jan 18) to be expressed, and Tamsin was shown the procedure so she can do it for Luna at home. Tamsin explained that Luna was interested in her litter tray when she came home, but didn’t go to the toilet. It was then that Tamsin was given some positive news.

“I was told that because Luna had shown interest in her litter tray that it’s more likely that she knows she needs to go and can feel the sensation, but she’s not able to squat because of the fracture to her pelvis,” Tamsin said.

“They’re hopeful that because of this, her continence will return, so fingers crossed she can have her operation soon.”

But, there’s one hurdle they’ve yet to jump. Even though Luna is insured, the insurance doesn’t cover the entire cost of Luna’s treatment.

Luna’s insurance will pay out £1000 for her treatment following her injury, however, with four overnight stays, two x-rays, laser treatment and recovery food, as well as medication, Luna’s vet bill is almost past what the insurance will pay out for her – and that’s without her operation.

“Luna will have to go to a specialist in Llanidloes to have her pelvis operated on,” Tamsin said. “It’s going to be around another £1000 on top of her existing vet bills, so we have to find the money somehow. I won’t give up on her.”

Tamsin and her family have since set up a Go Fund Me page, detailing Luna’s condition, and appealing to members of the public to help fund her operation.

Tamsin said: “If she was an old cat and she was really lethargic and clearly unwell, I’d have a different approach and outlook on her future. But she’s only eight months old, and she is really well in herself other than her injuries. She’s eating and drinking fine, playing, and she’s still just as vocal as she was before. I’m confident that even without her tail, she can go on to live a long and happy life.”

Tamsin added: “Anyone who can help, whether it’s a cash donation or just sharing the campaign on social media to help spread the word, we really do appreciate it. Thank you!”

To donate to help Luna get the treatment she needs, go to www.gofundme.com/lunastreatment

News

Milford Haven RFC celebrates Mini’s Section Presentation

Published

9 hours ago

May 6, 2024

Herald Sport

MILFORD HAVEN RFC once again showcased its commitment to nurturing young talent as it celebrated its Mini’s Section Presentation on Sunday (May 5). The event, held with much enthusiasm, marked a significant moment for the club, reinforcing its dedication to the development of rugby at all levels.

The Mini’s section, a cornerstone of the club’s community engagement, witnessed a remarkable turnout, a testament to its growing popularity year by year. The event not only recognised the efforts of the young players but also extended gratitude to the invaluable contributions of coaches, parents, and supporters, whose unwavering support is instrumental in shaping the future of rugby in Milford Haven.

A special acknowledgment was reserved for Abbo, Paula, and Leanne, whose steadfast support has been pivotal in nurturing the Mini’s section, ensuring its success and growth. Their dedication and tireless efforts have played a significant role in fostering a nurturing environment for the young athletes to thrive.

The presence of the 1st Team Club Captain, Zac, and Vice Captain, Jimmy, added a touch of prestige to the occasion. Their attendance and active participation in presenting trophies to the Mini Mariners underscored the club’s ethos of unity and inclusivity across all age groups. Such gestures not only inspire the budding players but also instil a sense of belonging and pride in the larger Milford Haven RFC community.

In his remarks, Zac emphasised the importance of fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity within the club, where every member, regardless of age or experience, feels valued and supported. Such values lie at the heart of Milford Haven RFC, reinforcing its status as not just a rugby club but a tight-knit community.

As the event concluded, echoes of “Up the Mighty Mariners” reverberated through the grounds, encapsulating the spirit of determination and unity that defines Milford Haven RFC. With the Mini’s section flourishing and the club’s unwavering commitment to its development, the future of rugby in Milford Haven looks brighter than ever.

With each passing year, Milford Haven RFC continues to uphold its legacy as a nurturing ground for young talent, a beacon of sporting excellence, and a source of pride for the entire community.

As the red and white colours of the Mighty Mariners continue to soar high, so too does the spirit of camaraderie and passion that binds the club together, ensuring its continued success on and off the field.

News

Milford Haven clinches thrilling victory in KO Cup Plate Final

Published

9 hours ago

May 6, 2024

Tom Sinclair

IN a gripping showdown at Heywood Lane, Tenby on Wednesday (May 1), Milford Haven emerged victorious in the 2024 KO Cup Plate Final, edging past a resilient Whitland side by a narrow margin of 24-21.

The clash, witnessed by a fervent crowd, showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, culminating in a nail-biting finish that saw Milford Haven secure their first-ever Plate trophy in the club’s history.

The Mariners took an early lead through a penalty courtesy of winger James Trueman, swiftly countered by Whitland’s full back Geraint Jones. However, Milford surged ahead with the first try of the match, as No 8 Dewi Williams powered over the line from close range, with Trueman adding the extras.

Despite Whitland’s efforts to claw back into contention with two penalties, reducing the halftime deficit to a single point, Milford Haven remained composed. The second half witnessed a relentless display from the Mariners, capitalizing on their dominant pack to create scoring opportunities.

James Trueman showcased his prowess with a spectacular try, expertly set up by swift passing from James Williams and Dan Jenkins. Trueman’s accurate kicking extended Milford’s lead further, before Scott Buirds crashed over for their third try, sealing a commanding advantage.

Yet, Whitland refused to concede defeat, launching a spirited comeback with tries from Owyn Griffiths and Dom Davies. Despite their valiant efforts, Whitland fell short in their pursuit of victory, with a crucial penalty attempt rebounding off the post in the dying moments.

Milford Haven’s Ollie Rothero was rightfully awarded the ‘man of the match’ accolade for his composed performance, epitomizing the team’s resilience throughout the contest. Rothero’s versatility and steadiness in the No 15 shirt proved instrumental in Milford’s triumph, despite stiff competition from Trueman’s impressive place-kicking and memorable try.

In the end, Milford Haven emerged as worthy victors, their victory a testament to their tenacity and unity on the field. As the final whistle blew, the Mariners celebrated a hard-fought triumph, etching their names in the annals of KO Cup Plate history.

The club said after the match on their Facebook page: “All the players, coaching team and committee would like to thank everyone that came over to Tenby to support the boys tonight. It really meant a lot to us as a club and no doubt the town!”

Line-ups:

Milford Haven: Ollie Rothero, Robbie Jones, James Williams, Dan Jenkins, Jamie Trueman, Efan Morgan, Dan McClelland, Aaron Mayne, Luke Ryan, Jimmy Buirds, Jay Goodall, Zac Davies (Capt), Ryan Mansell, Ieuan Davies, Dewi Williams. Replacements: Dai. Sweeny, Ben Jenkins, Ben Groves, Scott Buirds, Ethan Aldred, Lee Riley, Dean McSparron.

Whitland: Geraint Jones, Morgan Lewis, Jamie Goldsworthy, Dom Davies, Owyn Griffiths, Jonathan Thomas, Trystan Rees, Dafydd Walters, Marc Jones, Trystan Bowen, Benjamin Kirk, Dan Bennett, Lewis Tingay, Cian Evans, Zac France-Miller. Replacements: Ceiron Evans, Charlie Watson, Jack Worthing, Thomas Iraia, Geraint McCoan.

News

Goodwick 2nds clinch Division 3 Cup after dramatic penalty shootout

Published

10 hours ago

May 6, 2024

Herald Sport

IN a gripping showdown at Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium on Friday (May 3), Goodwick United 2nds emerged victorious in a nail-biting encounter against Solva in the 2024 Division 3 Cup Final. The match, which ended 1-1 after normal time, saw Goodwick triumph 7-6 on penalties, securing the coveted cup in a marathon of tension and drama.

The game began at a frantic pace, with both sides showcasing their determination from the outset. Solva’s Robbie Jenkins proved to be a constant threat, testing Goodwick keeper Joe Docker early on. However, neither team could break the deadlock in the first half, with chances at both ends going begging.

As the match progressed, the intensity only heightened, with tackles flying in as both teams fought for supremacy. It was Solva who struck first blood, with Dan Bryce converting a penalty to put his team ahead with just 19 minutes remaining. But Goodwick refused to be beaten, and Kieran Price leveled the scores late on with a well-taken volley, sending the game into extra time.

Extra time saw no let-up in the action, with both sides pushing for a winner. However, it was Solva who found themselves reduced to ten men after Morgan Elliott was sent off. With neither team able to find a breakthrough, the match was ultimately decided by a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

In a tense shootout that went to sudden death, it was Goodwick who held their nerve, with Haydn Smith scoring the decisive spot-kick to clinch victory for his team. The celebrations that followed were a testament to the resilience and determination of Chris Morris’s side, who battled through injuries and adversity to claim the title.

Reflecting on his team’s triumph, Morris expressed his pride in his players, praising their character and resilience in the face of adversity. For Solva, it was a bitter disappointment, but they can take pride in their valiant effort throughout the match.

As the final whistle blew, it was Goodwick United 2nds who emerged as the worthy winners, etching their names into the annals of the Manderwood Pembrokeshire Football League’s Division 3 Cup history.

Line-ups:

Solva: Luke Phillips, Luke Mason, Harry Elliott, Morgan Elliott, Kieran Price, Ryan Thomas, Finn Isles, Sam Price, Robert Jenkins, Josh Bland (Captain), Lucas Price. Substitutes: Craig Challonder, Billy Clift, Albie Burden, Daniel Rees, Francis John-Duarte.

Goodwick United 2nds: Joe Docker, Tyler Morris, Iwan James, Haydn Smith, Kyle Smith (Captain), Joshua Wellan, Seamus Drake, Niall Kinsella, Keegan Summers, Gary Reynolds, Ethan Priestley. Substitutes: Goncalo Rocha, Alex O’Sullivan, Daniel Bryce, Kieran O’Brien, Frankie Pearce.

Match Officials:

Referee: Alan Boswell.