News
Police take casualty to hospital: No ambulance available after four hour wait
THE BOSS of the Welsh Ambulance Service has apologised after a middle-aged woman, from Milford Haven, fell over and was left lying on grass, in bad weather, over four hours.
On Thursday (Nov 21) the woman had travelled from her home in Camuset Close to visit a nearby relative, but reportedly slipped and fell, suffering a suspected broken leg.
The police attended an incident, and despite an ambulance being called, and the woman being in terrible pain, four hours went by without any transport arriving to take he to hospital.
The Herald understands that whilst the woman was on the ground, in the rain, neighbours did their best to keep her warm with hot drinks and coats.
In the end, the police decided to break with protocol and take the woman to hospital themselves in a police car.
Officers had decided that there was no sign of paramedics turning up any time soon, and they had no choice, the Herald has been told.
Our readers contacted us to say that on the same day, their own relatives were stuck in the back of ambulances at the hospital for six hours or more due to pressures in the A&E department at Withybush. This was in response to the story we published last night on the pressures facing accident and emergency services in Pembrokeshire.
The Pembrokeshire Herald contacted the Welsh Ambulance Service for a comment.
Lee Brooks, Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said that he was “sorry to hear” about the woman’s experience and that it was caused by “high levels of demand for health and care services”
Mr Brooks said that “this is absolutely not the service we want to provide” and that October 2019 was our busiest month for life-threatening emergencies and the current data supports that November has been equally busy.
He added: “The public has a role to play too: please only call 999 or go to emergency departments in the event of a genuine emergency so that we can keep our staff and vehicles for those who need us most.
“For everything else, check out the symptom checkers on the NHS Direct Wales website, call NHS Direct Wales or 111 (if available in your area) or visit your GP or a pharmacist.”
Entertainment
Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday
THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.
For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.
Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.
For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.
Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.
Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).
Crime
Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run
A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.
The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.
Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”
The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.
Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.
Community
Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day
WHAT an amazing Christmas present!
In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.
The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.
The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.
A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.
“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”
Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.
Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.
“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
-
News5 days ago
Ferry accident causes delay on new Dublin-Fishguard route
-
Education6 days ago
Home Education: Delays and missed opportunities risk further tragedy
-
Business6 days ago
Pembrokeshire care home group hit by £150,000 budget blow
-
Business4 days ago
Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure
-
Community6 days ago
Tips for coping with Mental Health challenges this Christmas
-
Entertainment6 days ago
River-themed lanterns light up Cardigan in spectacular parade
-
Charity7 days ago
‘Overwhelming’ support for regulation of animal welfare establishments
-
News7 days ago
Greyhound racing in Wales: Future hangs in balance as decision delayed until 2025