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Entertainment

The Pembrokeshire Murders: Episode 2 review

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TONIGHT, Tuesday January 12, sees the second episode of ITV’s 3-part adaptation of ‘The Pembrokeshire Murders’.
Episode 1 set the scene, it introduced you to all the characters, the situation and the sheer scale of the task ahead for Operation Ottawa.
Episode 2 picks up straight away, the news report seems to have rattled Keith Allen’s John Cooper who must sense that the net is closing in on him as he spends a lot of his time in the prison library reading up on DNA technologies used in criminal investigations.
Again we’re seeing that Cooper is as clever as he is manipulative and is still trying to scheme and plot his way out of trouble, even as he’s brought out of prison to be questioned by the team in Ammanford.

Operation Ottawa: the team that cracked the case in the new ITV drama

In many ways Episode 2 feels like John Cooper’s episode, obviously he’s the focus of all 3, but he’s a much bigger part of this episode and you truly get the sense of his slyness, his clear intellect and him acting purely out of self interest as his parole date nears.
After calling Andrew ‘dead to us’ in Episode 1, Episode 2 see’s John getting Pat to contact their son as John struggles to explain those pesky khaki shorts.
As mother and son are reunited, all hope Andrew had of being able to help his mum…sorry, ‘mam’ are instantly washed away as Pat keeps on questioning Andrew about those shorts. It’s clear to Andrew that Pat is still singing from John Cooper’s hymn sheet and getting Andrew over wasn’t for a touching reunion, it wasn’t just for tea and toast with jam, it was because John Cooper said so.
Oliver Ryan’s chat with his mum is a powerful scene, you begin to really see how much it’s messed up Andrew and how alone he truly is without his family, mainly his mum. But Pat is too involved, too wound up in Cooper’s lies to walk away, even with John Cooper expected home imminently. Oliver Ryan’s performance in this scene alone is one of the most powerful scenes in the entire series and deserves a special mention for another great acting performance in a series chocked full of them.
Elsewhere in the episode, Operation Ottawa are closer to Cooper than ever before but are no closer to proving his guilt as they burn through the budget re-testing items from Operation Huntsman.
Keith Allen’s chillingly cold performance, especially as he throws his son under-the-bus, is captivating to watch, his accent continues to waiver but just ignore it, what you’re seeing here is an animal penned in, Cooper is running out of moves to make so painting his son as the villain is the only way he can continue to try and squirm out of the grip of justice.
Alexandria Riley’s ballsy Ella Richards inspires the anger in Cooper that we’ve all heard so much about. Cooper may not appreciate female intellect, but that short-sighted, ridiculous way of thinking is so very nearly his undoing. You see that rage build as she confronts him and that encounter alone left me feeling that Cooper was ready to snap at any time especially when Richards presents him with another pair of glasses. Truly chilling stuff from Allen.
Luke Evans meeting with Andrew Cooper is another perfect scene that starts to build the trust between Andrew and Wilkins. Inch perfect again from both of them, Andrew clearly starts to see that the only way to help his mum is to help the police cage John Cooper for good. But how?
As the episode nears its end, a chance pint in The Kings Arms changes everything and we get to see how Bullseye factors into the story for the first time. That coupled with the very last scene leaves the stakes high and time running out as we head into the third and final part of this adaptation with John Cooper free.
Another solid episode elevated above your run-of-the-mill police dramas by superb acting, a great story and stellar pacing that sets up the last part perfectly. 4/5

Entertainment

Carew Castle Car Show: A timeless journey on wheels

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The Carew Castle Car Show is gearing up to offer an enchanting day for automotive enthusiasts and families alike. Scheduled for Monday, 6 May, from 10 am to 3 pm, the event promises to showcase a splendid array of classic and vintage cars, motorbikes, and military vehicles, all set against the historic backdrop of Carew Castle and Tidal Mill.

This year, the event is drawing participants and spectators from across South Wales, each eager to feast their eyes on the mechanical beauties that symbolize different eras of motoring history. The show, which has become a must-visit for anyone with a penchant for automotive culture, is also a celebration of community and craftsmanship.

Adding to the vehicular allure, the event will feature live performances by the popular Pembrokeshire folk band ‘Razor Bill’, known for their vibrant and engaging musical style. Attendees can also enjoy the thrills of funfair rides brought by Pembrokeshire Attractions, ensuring that there’s something enjoyable for every age group.

For families, the Brilliant Birds Treasure Trail offers a delightful educational experience, allowing children and parents alike to explore the natural and historical richness of the area. Culinary treats will be available as well, with fresh Welshcakes and bacon rolls being served from the opening hour, perfect for those looking to indulge in local flavors.

Despite the excitement, the organizers remind attendees that the show’s occurrence is weather-dependent. However, with hopes high for a sunny day, the community is buzzing with anticipation.

Visitors should note that normal castle admission fees apply, but the ticket includes access to the car show, making it a value-packed day out. While the show is fully booked for exhibiting vehicles, showcasing the high demand and popularity of the event, there are plenty of reasons for spectators to attend and enjoy the varied offerings.

For those planning to attend, it’s an opportunity not just to admire the craftsmanship of vintage and classic vehicles, but also to immerse in the cultural and festive atmosphere that only Carew Castle can offer. With its combination of history, entertainment, and community spirit, the Carew Castle Car Show is set to be a highlight of this spring season in South Wales.

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Entertainment

Kill Thy Neighbour – Review by Mike Dello

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SET in a Welsh coastal fishing village, this Torch Theatre production of “Kill Thy Neighbour” should not be confused with the 1970s hit comedy “Love Thy Neighbour.” The play, which opened on Wednesday, 24 April, is billed as a black comedy. It superbly mixes humour with deadly intrigue, keeping the audience guessing for the best part of two hours.

After a somewhat laborious start, the play develops into a thoroughly entertaining and unusual attraction that grips the audience right up to its macabre finale.

For obvious reasons, I don’t want to reveal too much. Delightfully written by Lucy Lovatt and directed by Chelsey Gillard, the main characters Caryl and Merion are portrayed brilliantly by Victoria John and Dafydd Emyr—a couple whose marriage is heading for the rocks. The plot takes another twist when their daughter Seren, played by Catrin Stuart, pays them a visit.

The play begins to find its stride by the interval, leaving one eager to discover what happens next. The garden shed holds a deadly secret, a nude painting is pivotal to the plot, and a former neighbour eventually sends an ice-cold chill down your spine.

There are many references to Pembrokeshire throughout the performance, and the Welsh accents are delightful to hear.

Even poor old Merion’s limp is convincingly portrayed, set in a single room that includes an authentic lobster pot. It all works to perfection right through to the final breathtaking scene.

“Kill Thy Neighbour” runs until 4 May and is well worth a visit to this magnificent theatre.


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Entertainment

New card game ‘Tenby’ set to arrive soon!

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TENBY is a captivating game that combines card drafting and strategic placement. Despite its abstract nature, it immerses players in the charm of the seaside town it’s named after, thanks to vibrant illustrations and recognisable landmarks.

The gameplay of Tenby focuses on tactics rather than luck. Players draft cards from a display and strategically place them in rows, following specific placement rules to maximise their scores based on feature adjacency. It’s quite the brain-teaser.

What makes Tenby truly stand out is its innovative action drafting system. Each round, players select actions from a shifting pool of cards, determining the turn order for the next round as well. This adds depth and strategy to each decision.

Tenby is suitable for all player counts, though it primarily offers a multiplayer-solitaire experience, which I personally appreciate. Turns are quick, ensuring there’s always something to ponder during downtime.

The vector art, while not my usual preference, bursts with colour and complements the game perfectly. I particularly enjoy the witty puns, such as the “Uptown Swirl” ice cream parlour!

It’s easy to learn and teach, with intuitive iconography. The unique action drafting mechanic adds layers of depth, and the vibrant art and theme increase its appeal.

After careful consideration, I struggled to find any downsides. Any suggestions I had are already on the designer’s to-do list, including an exciting solo mode!

For more information visit www.cosycubgames.com/games

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