News
Dyfed-Powys issues more than 1,700 fines during lockdown
DYFED-POWYS POLICE issued more than 1,700 fines during the lockdown period, the force has announced.
Between March 27, when fixed penalty notices (FPN) were introduce, and July 6 the force reported 1,710 people for breaches of travel restrictions.
Almost two thirds of these were individuals who had travelled unnecessarily from outside the force area, with the largest number of tickets being issued in Powys.
Home to popular tourist destinations such as the Brecon Beacons, Powys also covers a huge stretch of the Wales-England border, as well as serving as a gateway between 11 other Welsh counties.
In one weekend in May – when strict travel restrictions were still in place across Wales – officers turned away more than 1,000 cars from the area around Ystradfallte known as ‘waterfall country’.
“Our officers have maintained a consistent approach to engage with the public at every opportunity and explain the regulations, with enforcement only as a last resort,” said Deputy Chief Constable Claire Parmenter.
“This educational approach became even more important as differences emerged between the rules around travel in England and Wales.
“We have worked hard to ensure key workers were able to get to and from work with as little disturbance as possible, while reducing the amount of unnecessary drivers on the roads.
“While largely people have listened to advice from the government, unfortunately we had some instances of people determined to flout the rules.
“The need for enforcement in these cases was clear – we were being asked to stay at home and limit our movement in order to relieve pressure on the NHS, and ultimately provide people with a better opportunity to survive should they be infected with the virus.
“Thanks to this team effort, Wales is now in a position to welcome back visitors safely.”
Travel restrictions officially ended in Wales on Monday (July 6), and from Saturday (July 11) self-contained accommodations can re-open to visitors.
“After so long at home we understand that people will be keen to enjoy the beaches, mountains and countryside of Mid and West Wales once again, and are anticipating a busy weekend ahead,” said DCC Parmenter.
“Our officers look forward to welcoming you, and will be here if you need any help, but we ask that you help us by being respectful of the areas you visit and plan your journey before you set off.”
News
Local rugby talent Osian Williams selected for Wales Under-20 clash with England
A FORMER Haverfordwest Blues junior has earned international honours after being selected to represent Wales Under-20 rugby union team in their fixture against England.
Osian Williams, who began his rugby journey at Haverfordwest Rugby Football Club, will pull on the red jersey this evening in what marks a proud milestone for both the player and the Pembrokeshire club that helped develop his talent.
Club members said the call-up reflects years of hard work, commitment and steady progress through the ranks, with Williams recognised locally for his determination and performances on the pitch from a young age.
A spokesperson for Haverfordwest RFC said the whole club is “incredibly proud” to see one of their own step onto the international stage.
They added that it is always special to watch former junior players progress to represent their country, describing Williams’ selection as “fully deserved” and an inspiration to the next generation coming through the Blues’ youth setup.
The match against England provides a stern test for the young Welsh side, but for Williams and his family it is also a moment to savour after years of dedication to the sport.
Friends, coaches and former teammates are expected to be cheering him on from Pembrokeshire as he makes his mark in Welsh colours.
Photo caption:
Osian Williams has been selected to play for Wales Under-20s against England (Pic: Supplied).
Crime
Man arrested for murder following death of pensioner in Pembroke Dock
Officers called to Hawkstone Road property as investigation continues and residents urged to come forward
DYFED-POWYS POLICE officers have launched a murder investigation following the sudden death of an eighty-five-year-old man at a property in Hawkstone Road, Pembroke Dock.
Emergency services were called at approximately 1:30pm today (Friday, Feb 6).
Officers attended the scene and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death.
A man in his forties has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while the investigation continues.
Anyone with information that could assist officers is urged to come forward.
Information can be provided online, by 101.
Quote reference: 212 of February 6.
Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their website.
Education
Second west Wales school placed in lockdown within days
Precautionary measures activated at Ysgol Brynteg after morning disturbance outside gates
CARMARTHENSHIRE pupils were kept inside classrooms after a precautionary lockdown was triggered at Ysgol Brynteg on Friday morning (Feb 6), marking the second west Wales secondary school to enter lockdown in the same week.
Police were called shortly after 9:00am following reports of a verbal altercation outside the school grounds.
Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended and the Llanelli school activated its safeguarding procedures while the situation was assessed.
No weapons were reported, no injuries have been confirmed and there have been no arrests at this stage. The incident is understood to have involved a dispute outside the site rather than inside the school itself.
Pupils remained indoors under staff supervision while officers made checks. Once police were satisfied there was no ongoing risk, the lockdown was lifted and lessons continued as normal.
A spokesperson said the measure was purely precautionary.
The incident comes just days after armed officers were deployed to Milford Haven School following a serious assault on a teacher, prompting a temporary closure and widespread concern among parents.
While the circumstances in Llanelli were far less severe, the two events occurring so close together have heightened anxiety among families across west Wales.
Schools routinely use lockdown procedures when there is any uncertainty or potential threat nearby, even if the risk later proves minimal. The approach is designed to err on the side of caution and protect pupils while emergency services investigate.
Parents were informed that Brynteg was safe and operating normally once the situation had been resolved.
There is currently no indication that pupils inside the school were directly involved in the disturbance.
The Herald understands enquiries are ongoing.
Both incidents underline how quickly everyday school days can be disrupted, and how safeguarding responses are increasingly becoming part of standard practice across Welsh schools.
Anyone with information about the Llanelli incident is asked to contact police.
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