News

The fascinating story of the Haverfordwest firefighter retiring after 42 years service

Published

4 years ago

March 10, 2021

A PEMBROKESHIRE firefighter who has been in the service for nearly 42 years is hanging up his hat for the last time this week. Man and boy, Keith Jenkins started at the tender age of 16 as an apprentice mechanic with the then Dyfed Fire Brigade, but now he is on to pastures new with a role in the NHS as a Fire Safety Advisor.

Speaking of his experiences, Keith, who moved from mechanic to retained fireman in 1983, said: “I was on the Pointsman ship fire getting caught in the third explosion, with two other colleagues Firefighter Rex Evans who broke his Collar Bone and Leading Fireman Brian Tytler who had 20% burns to his hands and face. I was so lucky just to get my helmet blown off and slight burns to my tunic.

“I also attended the Amoco Tank 11 fire in the same year, what an experience to see that boil over and flames reach over a 1000 ft high.

Firefighters were burned in the Amoco tank fire

“I joined the Wholetime on Red watch Haverfordwest, in 1985 and my first nightshift I attended the Scoveston Manor House fire, very sad to have experienced such sad scenes that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Scoveston Farm fire was set to hide a double murder

“Even attending the Sea Empress when she ran aground off Pembrokeshire coast, being used to man the fire tugs with their crews just in case we were needed, many a night we stayed on these fire tugs.

Sea Empress oil spill: A huge operation for firefighters and other agencies involved.

“I would like to say I am saddened to leave MAWWFRS whole time, it has been a privilege and an honour to be part of such a great Service and Team. During my time in the fire service I have been very fortunate to have gained experiences in so many different avenues and fields of this service. I became a fire brigade diver attending many incidents over the years, getting qualified with Northumbria Police for 8 weeks, hardest thing I have ever done.

Pointsman fire, Milford Haven, 1983

“I have worked alongside many great managers and colleagues over the years and been fortunate to have worked in four different commands, which has given me not only great professional development but personnel development too.

“I was in charge of Pontardawe fire station and attended the Gliesion Mine in Pontardawe, where many persons lost their lives in this tragic incident.

“The fire service has been a massive part of my life, serving the community for nearly 42 years, this has been a hard decision for me to make, so at this moment in time I will be continuing working as a Watch Manager in charge of the Partrtime RDS system at Haverfordwest for now.

“I feel this knowledge I have gained will carry me in good stead for the new role I have accepted with the NHS as a Fire Safety Advisor in Hywel Dda Health trust.

“I cannot thank the Fire Service enough for all that they have done for me, I will sincerely miss it.”

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.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!