News
Choice Homes reassurance from cabinet minister
People who are waiting to bid for properties on Pembrokeshire’s Choice Homes register are being reassured by the County Council’s Housing Service that the allocations scheme will be re-opened as soon as it is practical to do so.
Although the register is open to all those who wish to register for housing, only emergency lettings have been dealt with recently as a result of Covid-19.
“We appreciate this is a difficult time for those waiting to bid on properties, and would like to reassure those affected by the delay that we will be re-opening the Housing register as soon as we can,” said Cllr Michelle Bateman, Cabinet Member for Housing.
“However, we are awaiting further guidance from Welsh Government on the re-housing of those in temporary accommodation before we are able to make a decision on the full re-opening of the Choice Homes Allocations Scheme.”
She said that as a result of Covid-19, there has been an increased pressure on the Housing Service and demand for accommodation far outstrips the supply of local authority accommodation available.
“We are therefore working closely with partner agencies to combat the difficulties we are facing in delivering suitable temporary accommodation to those most in need,” she added.
In the meantime, if you are homeless and need advice, contact the duty team by emailing [email protected] or phoning 01437 764551 and asking for the housing advice team.
Please be aware that we are currently receiving high numbers of calls to our Housing Advice and Homelessness Team along with a reduction in staff numbers this week. If you require advice and assistance, please be assured that we will return your call as soon as we are able but this may take longer than normal as we prioritise the most urgent cases.
If you wish to register for the Choice Homes, you can call 01437 764551 or email [email protected]
For updates on when the Choice Homes register will re-open, please follow the Housing Services Facebook page: www.facebook.com/PCCHousing
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.
Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.
The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.
Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.
Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.
As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.
For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.
With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.
At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.
The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”
With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.
Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.
Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.
Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.
-
News4 days ago
Police and air ambulances at ‘serious incident’ at West Wales school
-
Business1 day ago
Largest Welsh port appoints communications and marketing director
-
Crime4 days ago
Pembrokeshire pensioner accused of 17 sexual offences against children
-
Crime3 days ago
All three school stabbing victims discharged from hospital, police confirm
-
Community5 days ago
County Hall to offer space for community banking
-
Crime6 days ago
Brian Davis: Wanted on suspicion of commercial burglary
-
Education7 days ago
Target of 1m Welsh speakers by 2050 is “almost impossible”
-
Sport5 days ago
Swifts eyes on double.