A DEEPLY moving Advent Procession took place at St Davids Cathedral this evening (Dec 1), marking the start of the festive season with a celebration of light amidst darkness and a reflection on the longing for Christ’s return.

The service began in solemnity at the West Door, with the congregation gathered in darkness. As the procession made its way through the Quire and toward the High Altar at the East, light was carried forward, symbolizing the arrival of hope and illumination in the season of Advent.

The event was enriched by a combination of hymns, carols, and Scripture readings, creating an atmosphere of reverence and spiritual anticipation. Each moment of the service invited attendees to reflect on the Advent themes of waiting, hope, and preparation for the coming of Christ.

St Davids Cathedral, renowned for its historical and architectural significance, provided a fitting backdrop for this ancient tradition, with its stone arches and candlelit spaces adding to the profound sense of occasion.

The Advent Procession is a cornerstone of the cathedral’s seasonal offerings, drawing worshippers from across Pembrokeshire and beyond to prepare their hearts and minds for Christmas.

(Photos: St Davids Cathedral)

THE PEMBROKESHIRE HERALD’S recent report on Labour MP Henry Tufnell’s family financial dealings has ignited national media interest. GB News and the Daily Mail have expanded on the story, raising fresh questions about the potential implications of Labour’s proposed inheritance tax changes.

TIMING OF LAND TRANSFER

The controversy centres on the timing of the Tufnell family’s land transfer. On October 10, just 20 days before Labour unveiled new inheritance tax rules affecting farmers, Mark and Jane Tufnell transferred ownership of Upper Colne Farm and Stud to their son, Albermarle. Critics suggest the move could shield the family from millions in future tax liabilities.

Both GB News and the Daily Mail have highlighted the proximity of these transactions to the Budget announcement, questioning whether the Pembrokeshire MP’s family had foreknowledge of the tax changes. While Henry Tufnell’s spokesperson denies any wrongdoing, opponents have branded the actions as “hypocrisy of the highest order.”

UNVEILING FAMILY WEALTH

The latest press coverage has also laid bare – to a national audience – the scale of the Tufnell family’s wealth.

GB News detailed their ownership of the 2,200-acre Calmsden Estate in the Cotswolds, complete with an arboretum, spring-fed swimming pool, and luxury gardens. In addition, the family reportedly owns multiple residential properties on the estate and a £4.4 million Belgravia mews house in London.

The Daily Mail added that Upper Colne Farm controls assets worth over £2 million, including £1.9 million in agricultural land, with Albermarle Tufnell gaining “significant control” over the business.

NEW TRUST RAISES QUESTIONS

Further scrutiny surrounds the creation of the “Tufnell 2024 Settlement” trust on October 24, a week before the Budget announcement. While details of the trust remain unclear, a family source claimed it was established to support future generations. Critics, however, argue the timing casts doubt on its intent.

POLITICAL FALLOUT

The national debate sparked by this case has reignited concerns over Labour’s inheritance tax policy and its impact on the farming community. With Welsh farmers facing increasing financial strain, the disparity between the Tufnell family’s affluence and the average family farm has not gone unnoticed.

As the story develops, the Herald will continue to monitor the unfolding political and public reaction to the Tufnell family’s financial dealings.

IN a time when healthcare services are stretched thin across the UK, Pembrokeshire stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation with the upcoming opening of Wales’ largest Specsavers store in Haverfordwest. Thanks to a transformative £1.2 million investment, the county is poised to benefit from world-class eye and hearing care when the new store opens its doors on Monday, December 16, 2024.

This state-of-the-art facility, situated at 21 Riverside Quay in the Riverside Shopping Centre, is set to revolutionize local healthcare with 14 test rooms, including two dedicated audiology suites. Not only does this make it the largest Specsavers in Wales, but it also places it among the most advanced in the UK. At a time when accessing NHS services can be challenging, the store’s cutting-edge technology and expanded clinical services offer a lifeline to residents, relieving pressure on GPs, hospitals, and A&E departments.

Andy Britton, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Haverfordwest, highlighted the importance of this development: “Our investment reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional eye and hearing care in Pembrokeshire. This isn’t just about a bigger store – it’s about meeting the needs of our growing community, introducing advanced clinical services, and training the next generation of optometrists.”

The new store is also a hub for education, supporting optometrists pursuing higher qualifications in areas like Glaucoma and Independent Prescribing. This ensures Pembrokeshire residents have access to top-tier care while nurturing a future generation of specialists.

A recent YouGov survey commissioned by Specsavers reveals a critical gap in awareness about eye health. Nearly 70% of Welsh adults don’t think to visit an optician first for eye-related issues, often turning to overstretched NHS services instead. By encouraging patients to make opticians their first point of contact for issues like sudden vision loss or painful eyes, Specsavers aims to change this narrative.

Britton elaborated: “Optometrists are equipped to handle many urgent eye issues, often faster and more effectively than traditional NHS routes. By improving awareness, we’re not only providing faster care but also reducing unnecessary strain on the NHS.”

The grand reopening event promises to be a celebration of both innovation and community spirit, featuring live music from the Haverfordwest Male Voice Choir and appearances by local dignitaries, including Pembrokeshire mayors. Specsavers has also committed to a year of community-focused initiatives in 2025, cementing its role as more than just a business – but a vital part of Pembrokeshire life.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, praised the investment: “At a time when many towns are struggling, Specsavers’ decision to invest in Haverfordwest demonstrates confidence in our community’s future. This new store is not just a healthcare milestone – it’s a cornerstone of our town’s regeneration.”

With flexible seven-day-a-week hours and a commitment to both innovation and accessibility, Specsavers Haverfordwest is a shining example of how Pembrokeshire continues to defy national trends in healthcare decline. For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.

Pembrokeshire is truly fortunate to have such a forward-thinking service at its heart, proving that even in challenging times, innovation and care can thrive.