News

Lockdown extended for three weeks in Wales, with modest adjustments

Published

5 years ago

May 8, 2020

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has announced a three-week extension to its coronavirus lockdown and making modest adjustments, including allowing outdoor exercise more than once a day and plans to reopen libraries.

The first minister, Mark Drakeford, insisted the lockdown needed to stay but said “very cautious” changes would come into force.

He emphasised that he remained keen on the four nations of the UK working as one over the lifting of restrictions and said the new rules would come into force on Monday so Wales moved in step with the rest of the UK.

Asked if he was happy with how the UK government was working with his administration, he said: “It has been a bit of a fits-and-starts experience.”

Mark Drakeford said the ‘R’ number was believed to be 0.8 in Wales. He said if this figure remained constant, it was estimated there would be about 800 more deaths between now and August. If it went up to 1.1, there could be 7,200 deaths.

Speaking at the Welsh government’s press conference in Cardiff on Friday, he said: “We must not lose the progress we have made. All of us must continue to work from home whenever we can. All of us must only travel when absolutely necessary. All of us must continue to observe the 2-metre social distancing, and wash our hands and take those basic hygiene precautions. The margins are so small.”

But he said that from Monday, people will be allowed to exercise more than once a day, while not travelling “a significant distance” from home.

Garden centres will be allowed to reopen, provided they can ensure the 2-metre physical distancing rule is followed. And councils will begin to work on plans to safely reopen libraries and municipal recycling centres.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

3 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!