News

Oil 4 Wales provides winter warming donations to the vulnerable

Published

4 years ago

February 3, 2021

A WEST WALES based fuel supplier has donated thousands of litres of oil to vulnerable members of the community.

A delivery donation has been made to The Carers Trust Crossroads which will specifically benefit an elderly husband and his wife, acting as his carer throughout the pandemic.
The South-West Wales charity which provides support to carers by giving them “time” to be themselves believes that access to funding and information is vital in helping them manage
the impact of caring on their lives – and this is exactly why Oil 4 Wales remains devoted to reducing the number of households in fuel poverty through its donations and planned
delivery services across the country.

Alison Harries, Chief Executive Officer for Carers Trust Crossroads Sir Gar said “We are so grateful for the generous fuel donations from Oil 4 Wales, especially to those who might be
feeling scared and worried about the impact of these uncertain times on their loved ones.

Knowing they have the ability to heat their homes to create a comfortable environment when it’s needed most is incredibly important to our carers.”

In addition, following a request from Carmarthenshire Council, ongoing fuel donations of 500 litres are being provided to local residents Mr and Mrs Leach who are caring for their child
following a diagnosis of Moto Neurone disease. Nery-Wyn Morgan, Senior Health Lead for the 0-25yrs Disability Service at Hywel Dda University Health Board/Carmarthenshire
County Council emphasised its thanks to Oil 4 Wales for their generous donation, stating that “it is acts of kindness like this that make a remarkable difference to how community
carers feel during such challenging times – hopefully improving their quality of life as much as possible whilst spending so much time at home.”

The latest donations come as the Welsh nation finds itself in yet another period of COVID-19 restrictions alongside turbulent weather.
Following a 2019/2020 government report highlighting that there were 2,000 excess winter deaths in Wales last winter, excluding those from COVID-19, the family run business believe it is ever more crucial to act on its mission to ‘work with the community, for the community’ during Winter 2021 in order to limit these preventable losses.

It is believed that these tragedies will have been partly caused by people living in cold homes, particularly in rural areas where properties are typically older, less energy efficient and harder to keep warm. The report also highlighted that living in cold temperatures can lead to a variety of health issues including lowered immune systems which puts older people at greater risk of developing respiratory diseases and other illnesses during the winter months.

Oil 4 Wales prides itself on building strong relationships with the community, and this is true of its customers all over Wales. Its dedicated staff have been working around the clock to
deliver essential oil and fuel supplies across the country, and it also played its part in delivering free fuel to a customer in Broad Haven who relies on her neighbour for care.
Colin Owen, Managing Director of Oil 4 Wales, said they were delighted to be able to help keep the community safe at this challenging time. “The pandemic has had such a
devastating effect on everyone, especially the vulnerable and now that we’re in full swing of the winter months it is even more vital that the community pulls together and supports each other. To hear how our donations have helped those in need has been incredibly heart-warming and we look forward to continue looking after our community throughout 2021.”

Business

Ascona CEO honoured at 2024 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards

Published

15 mins ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ASCONA GROUP, the seventh-largest independent forecourt operator in the UK and one of Wales’ fastest-growing companies for the past three years, has achieved a significant milestone. Darren Briggs, CEO and founder, has been recognised at the 2024 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, securing wins in two prestigious categories: ‘Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year – Wales’ and the inaugural ‘Randall Foundation Entrepreneur of the Year – Wales.’

Celebrating its 12th anniversary, the Great British Entrepreneur Awards highlight innovators and trailblazers shaping the UK economy. The newly introduced ‘Randall Foundation Entrepreneur of the Year’ award celebrates business leaders whose ventures align with the foundation’s mission to save lives, improve life chances, and positively impact local communities.

Pembrokeshire-based Ascona’s commitment to community support has been a cornerstone of its success. The company established The Ascona Foundation in 2020 and has since donated over £400,000 to local, national, and community organisations.

Reflecting on the achievement, Darren Briggs said:
“It is a great honour to be recognised with such prestigious awards at this year’s Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

“I am incredibly proud of Ascona and everything we have achieved over the years. This is another milestone for our business and a testament to the hard work, commitment, and ethos of ‘Team Ascona.’

“However, I am most proud of our charitable endeavours and the team’s dedication to giving back. This year, we remain committed to our fundraising efforts, including our partnership with Wales Air Ambulance, as we continue to support the communities we serve.”

Since its founding, Ascona Group has focused on driving innovation in the forecourt sector while fostering community engagement. This dual commitment to growth and giving back has positioned the company as a leader in its field.

Ascona’s charitable initiatives have supported various causes, enhancing lives across Wales and beyond. Through partnerships with organisations such as Wales Air Ambulance, the Group continues to make a tangible difference.

Darren Briggs’ recognition at the awards underscores Ascona’s impact on both the business world and the communities it serves.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

1 day ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.