THE Tenby Coastal Cruiser, a beloved summer tradition, is set to return this year, delighting locals and tourists alike with its scenic route from Saundersfoot to Tenby. Commencing its service on Saturday, May 25, this cheerful double-decker bus promises an unforgettable experience for passengers seeking breathtaking coastal views and a convenient mode of transportation between these picturesque Welsh towns.

With its vibrant open-top deck, the Coastal Cruiser offers passengers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline. From the moment the cheerful “BEEP BEEP” of the bus announces its departure, passengers are treated to a journey brimming with excitement and anticipation.

For those yet to embark on this charming trip, it comes highly recommended as a must-do activity of the season. The Coastal Cruiser not only provides an opportunity to revel in the natural splendor of the coastline but also offers the convenience of a hop-on, hop-off service. This means passengers can explore both Saundersfoot and Tenby at their leisure, perhaps indulging in a spot of shopping at the quaint stores dotted along the route.

“The Tenby Coastal Cruiser is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience,” enthused a local resident. “Whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident, there’s something truly magical about seeing our stunning coastline from the top deck of this fantastic bus.”

Indeed, the return of the Coastal Cruiser is a cause for celebration, signaling the arrival of summer and the opportunity for memorable adventures along the Welsh coast. As anticipation builds for its inaugural journey, locals and tourists alike eagerly await the chance to once again climb aboard and experience the joyous journey from Saundersfoot to Tenby.

So mark your calendars as the Tenby Coastal Cruiser embarks on another season of scenic delights and unforgettable memories.

A VIP audience greeted Pembroke and District Male Voice Choristers when they took stage at Pembroke Town Hall at the invitation of the town’s Mayor, Councillor Aden Brinn.

The concert, in aid of the Mayor’s charities – the Welsh Guards charity and the VC Gallery – was very well supported and the choir were in fine harmony, guided by Musical Director Juliet Rossiter and Accompanist Carole Rees.

Guests included Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Sharron Lusher, MBE, Stephen Crabb MP, Sam Kurtz MS, Councillor Tom Tudor, Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, and County Council Leader Councillor David Simpson.

Two Welsh Guardsmen, in full ceremonial uniform, reflected the close connections between the Mayor and the town with the Regiment’s 1^st Battalion.

Busiest chorister on the night was MC Matthew John. To his reputation for jokes, which had preceded him, he added poetry and, in a surprise to colleagues, joined soloist Alyson Griffiths in a delightful duet. They sang a medley of musical and wartime songs, accompanied by Carole.

In Alyson’s solo spot she played on flute ‘Moonlight serenade’ and ‘A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square’.

Audience wholeheartedly joined in ‘Men of Harlech’ and a medley of World War I songs and the choir’s 12 items were warmly received.

Choir and audience were thanked by the Mayor – this was the final fundraising event of his memorable year in office.

Next choir concert is on Friday May 10^th at Tabernacle Church, Pembroke, 7.30 pm in aid of Tenby and Saundersfoot First Responders – a fully trained volunteer team who give their time to respond to life threatening calls in support of the Welsh Ambulance Service.

FIRE services from across the United Kingdom have rallied together to donate vital firefighting equipment to Ukraine, amidst ongoing conflicts that have seen local fire stations and firefighters come under direct attack.

The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) was at the forefront of this international goodwill effort, donating three fire appliances and dispatching nine of their personnel to ensure safe delivery.

The initiative, coordinated by Fire Aid UK, involved a total of 11 UK fire services. Over a grueling 5.5-day journey that spanned several countries—starting from Kent Fire and Rescue Service and moving through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and into Poland—33 fire appliances were transported to a location just 20 miles from the Ukraine border. They left Kent on April 23.

This convoy, laden with not just fire engines but also 3000 items of critical firefighting gear including cutting equipment, fire hoses, first aid kits, and generators, was a sight of resilience and humanitarian commitment. Watch Manager Rob MakePeace, a Business Fire Safety Officer, and Watch Manager Keith Jenkins, who is retired but still oversees part-time personnel at Haverfordwest, played pivotal roles in the operation from Pembrokeshire.

Speaking on the experience, Keith Jenkins expressed the profound impact of the mission, “It was a fantastic experience to be involved in. The convoy itself was an amazing sight, but the people we met, places we stayed and the reason we were delivering the appliances was something we will remember for a long time.”

The donation comes at a critical time for Ukraine, where daily attacks have not only jeopardized the lives of local firefighters but have also devastated much of the essential infrastructure needed to fight fires effectively. The additional appliances and equipment from the UK are expected to significantly bolster the capabilities of the Ukrainian fire departments, providing them with the necessary tools to save lives and protect property under dire circumstances.

This act of generosity and the strenuous efforts by the UK firefighters underscore a deep commitment to aiding those in peril, transcending borders and showcasing the best of international cooperation and humanitarian assistance.