News
Fishguard: Armed police hurled stun grenades and fired Tasers to free hostages
ARMED police threw stun grenades and fired Tasers to free four young captives taken in a siege in dramatic bodycam footage shows.
Dyfed Powys Police have released the video following the jailing of the hostage for 27 months.
Officers used chainsaws to cut their way through a door before throwing stun grenades into a room at the house in Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, in November last year.
Police then charged through the doors firing Tasers to subdue hostage-taker Shane Thomas, 23, and his father.
Thomas was wanted by police and had gone on the run after attacking two customers in a pub, Swansea Crown Court heard.
He was later tracked to his father’s home – and barricaded himself inside with four teenagers.
One of the youths raised the alarm by messaging a friend on Snapchat saying he was being ‘held against his will and frightened’.
A court heard Thomas was in an ‘alcohol and drug haze’ when he blocked the front door with a fridge, settee, and cooker.
Thomas said he had drunk 15 cans of lager and erected barricades to protect himself because he was ‘scared’ of police.
Prosecutor Dean Pulling said that when officers arrived Thomas shouted threats through the door and a ‘siege’ developed.
After 90 minutes police smashed their way into through the front door and then cut their way into the bedroom using a chain saw.
Mr Pulling said the grenades were thrown as ‘distraction devices’ before Thomas was Tasered, sprayed with pepper spray and restrained.
Swansea Crown Court heard both Thomas and his father were arrested at the house in Fishguard, Pembrokeshire.
Mr Pulling said the siege had cost police around £31,000 because it involved 30 officers and a force helicopter.
Thomas, of Fishguard, later admitted two counts of actual bodily harm, obstructing police, malicious communications, and a public order offence.
Jon Tarrant, defending, said dad-to-be Thomas had been in a ‘alcohol and drug haze’ after being kicked out of home last year but now wanted to grow up.
He added: ‘2020 was not perhaps one of his best years’.
Judge, Recorder John Philpotts, told Thomas he was ‘hell bent on trouble’ and jailed him for 27 months.
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.
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