News

Elderly woman almost lost £24k to scammers – just two years after being conned out of around £90k

Published

6 years ago

May 5, 2020

FRAUD prevention officers are urging people to stay vigilant after an elderly woman almost lost £24,000 to scammers – just two years after being conned out of around £90,000.

The woman was a victim of a fake investment scheme in 2018, and believed some of the money would now be returned to her if she made three payments to individual bank accounts.

She made two transfers totalling £9,000, and was asked for a further £15,000 before her funds would be released.

However, under Operation Signature, which sees banks and police work together to identify potential victims of fraud, Dyfed-Powys Police was alerted to the third payment and intervened.

Fraud safeguarding officer Rebecca Jones said: “Sadly, in 2018 this lady was convinced to invest a huge amount of money into a fake scheme. She was led to believe a significant proportion of this would be returned to her if she made two payments – but was then asked for a third.

“Thankfully, at this point we were made aware, and could begin to investigate where the money was going. After providing the victim with advice and support, she decided against making the payment.

“We have prevented the loss of a significant amount of money, and will continue to engage with the victim to ensure she is not at risk of falling foul of further scams.”

The offences have been referred to Action Fraud for dissemination to the Met Police for investigation.

The force’s Economic Crime Team is now urging people to be on high alert when contacted out of the blue from anyone asking for a bank transfer to be made – with particular concern that people might be more vulnerable to fraudsters while isolating.

Rebecca said: “Criminals will use any opportunity they can to take money from innocent people. As more people stay at home, there is more opportunity for criminals to try and trick people into parting with their money at a time when they are anxious and uncertain.

“This is especially relevant as older, more vulnerable people self-isolate and may be targeted over the phone, or even in person. Not being able to see family members might make vulnerable people feel more alone, and not be able to get advice quickly on whether an opportunity is genuine or a scam.

“We are asking people to stay on their guard, be alert, and always question the motives of someone who contacts them out of the blue over the phone, by email or in person with a questionable good deal.”

· If you’re purchasing goods or services from a person or company you don’t know, do your research before parting with any money.
· Never respond to an email asking for your personal or financial information.
· Avoid paying for goods and services by bank transfer as that offers little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use a credit card or service such as PayPal if you can.
· If you’re contacted by someone asking you to make an investment, seek advice and check the Financial Conduct Authority’s register to check if the company is regulated. No legitimate organisation with pressure you into making a decision on the spot.

News

Heatwave disruption: Train cancellation warning for Pembrokeshire travellers

Published

43 minutes ago

June 23, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Rail operators urge passengers to check before travelling as extreme heat threatens delays and cancellations across Wales

RAIL passengers from Pembrokeshire are being warned to expect disruption this week as soaring temperatures place pressure on Wales’ railway network.

Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway and Network Rail have all issued warnings as an extreme heat alert remains in force across much of Wales, with temperatures forecast to reach the high 30s in some areas.

While no services in Pembrokeshire have been cancelled, passengers travelling to Swansea, Cardiff, Bristol and London are being advised to check before travelling and allow extra time for their journeys.

Transport for Wales has already suspended services on two routes in south Wales due to the forecast conditions, while further disruption is expected elsewhere on the network.

Rail operators say extreme temperatures can cause overhead power lines to sag, increase the risk of trackside fires and, in severe cases, lead to rails buckling. Temporary speed restrictions may also be introduced, resulting in delays and cancellations.

Jake Kelly, deputy chief executive of Network Rail, said: “Extreme heat can have a significant impact on the railway, so safety must come first.

“We’re asking passengers to check before travelling and only travel if absolutely essential during the peak of this weather event.”

Great Western Railway has also advised customers to travel only if necessary on Wednesday (June 24) and Thursday (June 25).

The operator said reduced timetables may be introduced during the hottest parts of the day, with fewer trains running and journey times taking longer than normal.

To help passengers affected by disruption, ticket restrictions have been relaxed, allowing some tickets to be used on alternative travel dates.

Passengers are being urged to carry water, plan ahead and check the latest service information before setting off.

Education

Pembs parents watch closely as Carmarthenshire schools shut in extreme heat

Published

1 hour ago

June 23, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE parents are being urged to check school messages as neighbouring Carmarthenshire prepares to close all secondary schools on Wednesday and Thursday because of extreme heat.

The move in Carmarthenshire has raised questions across west Wales about whether schools in Pembrokeshire could also be affected as temperatures continue to rise.

All secondary schools in Carmarthenshire are set to close for two days, with some primary schools also deciding to shut. There has been no blanket closure decision for primary schools in that county.

In Pembrokeshire, no county-wide secondary school closure announcement has been made at this stage.

Parents should check directly with their child’s school for the latest information, including texts, emails, school apps, websites and social media pages.

The situation may vary from school to school, depending on building conditions, ventilation, classroom temperatures and local circumstances.

The closures in Carmarthenshire come as Wales faces exceptional weather conditions, with concerns about pupil and staff welfare during the heatwave.

Many school buildings, particularly older sites, can become extremely hot during prolonged periods of high temperature.

A Wales-wide picture is now emerging, with schools in several counties considering closures, early finishes or remote learning.

For Pembrokeshire families, the key message is not to assume schools are closed unless official confirmation has been received.

The Herald will continue to monitor updates from Pembrokeshire schools and the county council.

Local Government

Armed Forces flag flies over County Hall

Published

6 hours ago

June 23, 2026

Tom Sinclair

THE ARMED FORCES flag is flying proudly at County Hall this week ahead of Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 27.

Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Tessa Hodgson, and the Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Simon Hancock were among those who marked the flag raising on Monday morning (June 22).

Also present were the Chairman of Council, Cllr Delme Harries, the Chief Executive, Will Bramble and the Regional Armed Forces Covenant Liaison Officer, Hayley Edwards.

Cllr Hancock said: “It is always a very proud moment to see the Armed Forces Flag flying over County Hall.

“Armed Forces Day is a chance to show our deep appreciation for the men and women who serve, as well as the families and communities who support them.

“Our county has a rich history of connection with the Armed Forces, and we are proud to uphold and strengthen that bond.

“As a Council we are committed to ensuring that members of the Armed Forces community in Pembrokeshire receive the recognition and support they truly deserve and we are proud to be a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award holder.”