News
Tributes paid for Tenby’s Hero
TRIBUTES have poured in after the heart breaking news of popular Tenby firefighter, Martin Harlow, had sadly passed away Thursday, July 16.
Martin Harlow was a popular man within Tenby, serving as a firefighter for Tenby Fire Station for over 35 years.
Martin retired in 2013 and was presented with the long service plaque to honour his time of service.
Martin went above and beyond for his team, also regularly fundraising for The Fire fighters Charity which supports the UK fire fighters and their families.
Tenby’s mayor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall is one of many who have expressed condolences after hearing of the devastating news of Martin Harlow’s passing; “Today we are sending our love and condolences on the sudden passing of Martin. We are also sending our love to all the family and Martin’s extended family at Tenby Fire Station. Another Tenby character taken too soon.”
Those who knew Martin expressed their thoughts after hearing the sad news, including those who worked alongside him. Jon Conbeer wrote: “RIP Big Marty. It was a pleasure serving with you in Tenby for all those years. Wonderful memories made by all who had the privilege to serve with you too.”
Entertainment
Create a dried meadow flower artwork at Roch Castle
ROCH CASTLE near St Davids is hosting a workshop to create a dried meadow flower wall artwork to adorn your home on Sunday, May 19 (12pm-2pm).
During the two-hour session you will learn how to fill a 40cm x 30cm natural wood frame with your chosen mix of dried flowers, grasses and seed heads.
Most of the flowers have been grown and dried by Karen MacKechnie from the Floral Goat on her Pembrokeshire farm, with some additional stems sourced from other British flower farmers.
Places at the dried flower meadow workshop, which will be led by Karen, are priced at £70 per person to include all materials as well as tea/coffee and Welshcakes. Book online via Roch Castle’s website www.rochcastle.com or call 01437 725 566.
Free parking is available on-site but as space is limited please car share where possible. As a 12th century castle, access within Roch Castle is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.
Business
Women make better homeworkers than men, according to new survey
A GROUNDBREAKING survey conducted by the team behind the British Business Excellence Awards (www.britishbusinessexcellenceawards.co.uk) have uncovered a significant trend in the remote work landscape: women are leading the charge as successful remote workers, surpassing men in both productivity and overall satisfaction with remote work arrangements.
The survey, encompassing more than 2,300 UK adults in full-time employment (a 50/50 split of men and women), revealed a striking trend: over two thirds of employees (69%) perceive female remote workers as more productive than their male counterparts. Contrary to traditional assumptions, women are not only adapting to remote work, but thriving in it.
Additionally, over three-quarters of women (76%) reported increased productivity since transitioning to remote work, compared to 54% of men. This shift in productivity is closely tied to work-life balance, with 72% of women indicating an improved balance since working remotely, compared to 58% of men.
Female remote workers also stood out in terms of approachability and support, with a staggering three-quarters of respondents (75%) perceiving female colleagues as more approachable in the virtual workspace. This accessibility and support contribute to a more cohesive and connected remote work environment.
In a reflection of the evolving priorities in the business world, over half of men (54%) and three-fifths of women (61%) believe that female remote workers are more progressive when it comes to sustainability and environmental initiatives. Women in remote roles were perceived as having a stronger focus on implementing sustainable practices and promoting eco-consciousness in their virtual teams.
Conversely, the survey highlighted a perception that male remote workers are more comfortable with embracing technology and artificial intelligence (AI), with 78% of men and 61% of women expressing this view. This suggests that male remote workers are seen as driving digital transformation and leveraging tech tools more readily in the virtual workspace.
Sarah Austin, Director of the Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards, commented:
“These findings challenge traditional norms and underline the importance of fostering an inclusive work environment where all employees, especially women, can thrive. The data clearly shows that women bring unique strengths to remote work, contributing to higher productivity, improved work-life balance, and a focus on sustainability.
“The survey underscores the significant advantages of supporting and promoting women in remote work settings. As businesses continue to navigate the remote work landscape, understanding and leveraging the strengths of female remote workers can lead to enhanced productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall success.”
Business
Lidl GB Targets Pembroke Dock for new store locations in Wales
LIDL GB has disclosed a coveted list of locations for new stores across Wales, prominently featuring Pembroke Dock among other key Welsh towns such as Newport, Cardiff, and Brecon. This announcement is part of the retailer’s broader strategy to inaugurate hundreds of new outlets throughout Great Britain, a plan that promises to generate thousands of jobs and revitalize local economies.
As Lidl marks its 30th anniversary since launching its first store, the company not only celebrates a historic market share peak of 8% but also reflects on a year of substantial infrastructural investments. These initiatives include the unveiling of the largest global distribution centre in Luton and the expansion of the Welsh distribution hub in Bridgend, alongside enhancements at the Belvedere warehouse which is set to double in capacity upon completion.
Richard Taylor, Lidl GB’s Chief Development Officer, elaborated on the company’s ambitious growth trajectory. “With significant investments fortifying our operations and a series of strategic store enhancements, our market position has never been stronger,” he stated. Taylor highlighted the brand’s ongoing status as the fastest-growing bricks and mortar supermarket for seven consecutive months, underscoring its relentless pursuit of operational excellence and commitment to affordability.
The proposed expansion into Pembroke Dock is poised to bring high-quality, affordable groceries closer to more households, aligning with Lidl’s mission to make good food accessible to all. The move is expected to attract a larger customer base, boosting Lidl’s market presence even further.
In pursuit of suitable sites, Lidl is offering incentives such as a finder’s fee for identifying viable locations, which includes 1.5% of the total freehold purchase price or 10% of the first year’s rent for leaseholds. Ideal sites would be prominent, easily accessible, and have substantial traffic or pedestrian flow, accommodating stores between 18,000 and 26,500 square feet with ample parking.
The strategic choice of Pembroke Dock reflects Lidl’s investment in regions with growth potential, ensuring that the benefits of its expansion are felt widely across Wales and beyond. As the retailer continues to explore innovative expansion avenues, the future looks promising for both Lidl and the communities it serves.
-
News6 days ago
Police and air ambulances at ‘serious incident’ at West Wales school
-
Business4 days ago
Largest Welsh port appoints communications and marketing director
-
Crime6 days ago
Pembrokeshire pensioner accused of 17 sexual offences against children
-
Crime5 days ago
All three school stabbing victims discharged from hospital, police confirm
-
News2 days ago
‘Honest’ caravan site owner ran site ‘under the radar’ for 20 years
-
Community4 days ago
Suspected explosive device found on west Wales beach
-
Crime4 hours ago
Llandissilio man accused of making hundreds of child abuse images
-
Community3 days ago
Train disruption expected due to essential works at Clarbeston Road