News
Tanker on way back to Milford despite opposition from locals and politicians

IT’S the oil tanker which kept switching course, first it was heading to Milford Haven, then it was Antwerp, then it was Belfast, but now it is Milford Haven again. An attempt to confuse the public, moaning politicans? Or is the unfolding situation in Ukraine confusing the owners themselves? Its a question of many people’s lips.
Local councillor Stephen Joseph, who represents Milford Haven Central at Pembrokeshire County Council, has called for people to protest; “We can not let this oil be unloaded here” he said.
This tanker laiden with upto 20,000 tonnes of Russian oil, and hundreds of residents from Milford Haven have said that given the crisis in the Ukraine it is not welcome in Wales.
The First Minister Mark Drakeford and Plaid Leader Adam Price have been the latest politicians to say they dont want to see Russian oil landed here.
It comes as Adam Price has called for no Russian oil to enter Welsh ports while “innocent blood is being shed in Ukraine”.
Mark Drakeford backed the call made by the Plaid Cymru leader during First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday.

That was echoed by local MS Sam Kurtz.
He said: “Given the horrific images of invasion and war led by Putin’s forces in Ukraine, Grant Shapps has my full support in refusing Russian entry to UK Ports.
“The maritime sector is a fundamental part of international trade; this ban will hit hard on Russia’s economic interests and prohibit their ability to profit from our economic output.
“It is not appropriate, nor welcome, to continue granting Russian vessels access to our country. I welcome this move and I stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”
PORT HAS NO POWERS
But the Port of Milford Haven said it has no power to stop vessels with cargo from Russia except under specific circumstances.
In a letter to stakeholders dated March 1, Andy Jones CEO of the Port of Miford Haven said: “The Department of Transport have today confirmed that the UK sanctions DO NOT APPLY (our emphasis) to cargo or vessels purely because they are coming from Russia. Therefore, as we do not haev the power to unilaterally apply santions to a vessel bound for our Port, we are legally obliged to service them.”
Mr Jones added: “The DfT will be supporting us and other UK ports to identify vessels, on a case-by-case basis, which they believe should not be serviced. All of this will be done in collaboration with our terminal customers.”
In the letter Mr Jones also said: “Whilst the headlines being reported suggest that all UK ports are to refuse entry to Russian-connected vessels, this is not as straightforward as that, as this sanction is directed at ownership and control [and not Russian cargo].”

LOCAL MP’s CONCERNS
Commenting on the ‘Louie’ which is destined for Puma Energy, Preseli Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb said: “There is understandably a significant amount of community concern about the impending arrival of the Louie at the Port of Milford Haven.
“I have been seeking clarity about the situation from both the UK Transport Minister and the Port of Milford Haven.
“Whilst I understand that the vessel is not Russian owned, and is not included in the Government legislation, the cargo has been loaded at a Russian Port. Many people in the community feel strongly that even accepting cargo that has come from Russia is just simply not acceptable given the appalling situation in Ukraine.”

“I fully support the work that has been done by the UK Government to ban any ships that are Russian flagged, registered or controlled from entering British ports as this strong action is exactly what is needed to impose tough economic penalties on Russia in response to their invasion of Ukraine.
“But I do believe that it needs to go further still, and that the source of the cargo needs to be included in the Government’s sanctions.
“Today, I have written to the Transport Minister, Grant Shapps, asking for more action to extend the legislation to take the cargo into consideration.
“I understand that the Port and the Department for Transport are continuing to work closely to identify ships that meet the UK sanctions, and prevent them from entering while Russia continues to invade Ukraine.
“Being home to one of the UK’s busiest ports, local residents will want to see that absolutely everything is being done to ensure that a firm stand is taken against Russia and the war being raged against Ukraine.”
The Herald is awaiting for a comment from Puma Energy.
(Cover image: Milford Haven Port Authority)

Farming
Pembrokeshire dairy farmer urges the industry to seize CPD opportunities

CONTINUING professional development (CPD) is an anticipated mandatory requirement for all farm businesses in Wales which enter the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). Due to start on 1 January next year, the version of the SFS currently being considered includes the requirement to complete a minimum of six hours of learning, plus an element of Health & Safety, every year, for each business.
Well-known Pembrokeshire dairy farmer Stephen James, FRAgS of Gelliolau, Clynderwen says this is a positive step forward for Welsh farming. Mr James welcomed the Welsh Government’s response to the last SFS consultation, which resulted in a decision to make the training requirement more flexible and inclusive by including short courses, online training modules, attendance at demonstration days, discussion groups and other knowledge transfer activities eligible for CPD.
“Committing to learning will help equip farmers and all those working in the land-based industries with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and prosper in today’s rapidly changing rural landscape,” says Mr James, who was recently awarded Lantra Cymru’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Most professions insist on some level of CPD and this approach will benefit Welsh agriculture significantly, helping farmers to stay viable, resilient and competitive.
“Whatever age we are and however experienced we might me, the onus is on us as an industry to have the mindset that embraces personal development, which in turn leads to business development.”
Working together will create a professional, efficient and sustainable sector
“Welsh Government provides a wealth of support for rural businesses and thanks to organisations including Farming Connect, Lantra Cymru, our levy boards and others, the industry is working collaboratively to create a more professional, efficient and sustainable farming sector that can adapt to changing policies and market demands while achieving the highest standards of environmental stewardship.
“If we fail to take advantage of all this support and don’t learn about innovation, invest in new technologies, adopt best practice and find more efficient, cost-effective ways of sustainable land, livestock and business management, we risk losing out in today’s evolving markets.
“To safeguard the future of family farms for future generations, we need to focus on farming sustainably and comply with regulations, alongside working towards stronger business performance and achieving optimum productivity levels,” said Mr. James.
Finding solutions to challenges
Mr James, a well-known and well-respected rural figurehead, combines hands-on regenerative farming at the 600-acre family dairy farm he runs in partnership with his son Daniel, alongside numerous public-facing roles. A passionate advocate for young and new entrants, Mr James has been at the forefront of rural affairs in Wales for over 40 years. Chair of the Wales Animal Health & Welfare Framework since 2018, he is a past president of the NFU Cymru, remains closely associated with Wales YFC and has served with numerous agricultural organisations, not only within Wales but internationally. He has advised both the Welsh and UK Governments, former European Commission bodies and remains a vocal and influential figure within many of agriculture’s key stakeholder organisations, including through his longstanding membership of the Farming Connect Programme Board.
“We all recognise that our industry is under pressure. Climate and nature emergencies, market pressures, changing consumer demands and the requirement for sustainable land management which protects the environment, present us all with daily challenges.
“If we stay informed, we stay prepared, we stay adaptable and resilient,” said Mr James who emphasised that it is the responsibility of all those working in the land-based sectors to take full advantage of the wealth of support, guidance, events and training that’s available.
“The level of support available in Wales is the envy of many other farming nations and it’s essential we make full use of this.”
Stay informed, prepared and adaptable
“The transition to the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) heralds change but brings new opportunities too and will transform the way we manage our land, our livestock and our businesses for the better across all sectors, combining sustainable land management with profitability.
“As environmental custodians, it is our responsibility to professionalise and modernise the industry, to protect what we have for the next generation – upskilling must be a key component of this,” said Mr. James.
Eligible farmers registered with Farming Connect can access a range of fully-funded or subsidised training options including face-to-face accredited courses, e-learning modules and knowledge transfer options from key industry experts including Animal Health & Welfare training workshops, all eligible for CPD.
For further information on Farming Connect’s skills, training and knowledge transfer provision, visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/farmingconnect/business/skills-and-training or contact your local development officer.
Crime
John Cooper appeal file still under review, but CCRC says process ‘will take time’

THE CRIMINAL CASES REVIEW COMMISSION has confirmed that its review of John Cooper’s convictions remains ongoing, with no fixed timeline for a decision. The process, described as extensive due to the volume of evidence and the potential need for expert analysis, is expected to continue well into 2025, with an update likely in October.
Cooper, who is serving a life sentence for the murders of Richard and Helen Thomas in 1985 and Peter and Gwenda Dixon in 1989, applied to the CCRC last year for a review of his convictions. Unlike many applications, which are dismissed early, Cooper’s case has progressed further than most, with dedicated case workers assigned—suggesting it is being taken seriously.

A spokesperson for the CCRC told The Herald on Monday (Mar 10): “Reviews can often be extensive, particularly when there is a lot of evidence to analyse; if we need to consider new case law or instruct scientific experts. A more complicated review can take many months, or even years.”
Sources close to the matter indicate that Cooper’s application, which exceeds 1,000 pages, is well-researched and has met the threshold for further scrutiny. While the CCRC operates under strict resource constraints, it is understood that this case is receiving significant attention.
Despite the high-profile nature of Cooper’s original trial, particularly following the ITV drama The Pembrokeshire Murders, the CCRC review has received little media coverage so far.
Cooper has always maintained his innocence, though previous appeals have failed.
If the CCRC ultimately refers his case to the Court of Appeal, it would be a significant legal development.
When approached for comment, Dyfed-Powys Police told The Herald: “We will comply with our obligations in any judicial process, but consider it inappropriate to provide specific comments at this time.”

The CCRC plays a crucial role in determining whether there are any anomalies in Cooper’s conviction or sentencing. If any are identified, the case will be referred to the Court of Appeal.
Cooper’s case gained national attention partly due to its dramatization in the ITV series The Pembrokeshire Murders, which highlighted his appearance on the TV game show Bullseye—a crucial yet circumstantial piece of evidence in his conviction.
At his 2011 trial, Justice John Griffith Williams sentenced Cooper to life imprisonment, describing him as a “very dangerous man” whose conviction relied heavily on advances in forensic science.
As readers may recall, The Pembrokeshire Herald previously uncovered significant concerns about the handling of forensic evidence in Cooper’s case. An investigation by this newspaper revealed a series of procedural failings, including missing or incomplete exhibit logs, the mixing of different evidence samples, and a previously unreported flood in the storage area where forensic materials were kept.

Documents obtained by The Herald suggested that some forensic exhibits were not properly logged at key stages of the investigation, raising concerns about gaps in the chain of custody.
The absence of complete records makes it difficult to determine whether all items were handled and stored correctly, an issue that is particularly significant in cases where forensic evidence plays a central role in securing a conviction.
The mixing of evidence samples was another area of concern. It was found that items from different cases had been stored together, a practice that increases the risk of cross-contamination. The potential for DNA transfer between exhibits, particularly when stored in close proximity, is well-documented in forensic science. Any such contamination could have serious implications for the reliability of the evidence used to convict Cooper.
Perhaps most troubling was the discovery of a flooding incident in the forensic storage facility. The flood, which had not been disclosed in court or in any official reports at the time, raised concerns about whether water damage may have compromised key exhibits. The extent of any damage and whether steps were taken to mitigate the risk of evidence degradation remain unclear. The possibility that critical forensic materials were exposed to moisture, mould, or other contaminants could be a crucial issue for the CCRC to consider.
Despite these concerns, the forensic evidence presented by the Crown was substantial and was not challenged during Cooper’s unsuccessful 2012 appeal. However, advances in DNA testing and forensic methodologies since his trial may now allow for more sophisticated analysis of key exhibits. If the CCRC determines that new scientific techniques could yield different results, this may influence its decision on whether the case should be referred to the Court of Appeal.
Statistically, Cooper faces an uphill battle. Between April 1997 and February 2023, the CCRC received 29,845 applications but referred only 811 cases to an appeal court.
However, if his case does reach the appeal stage, historical data suggests a roughly 70 percent chance of a successful challenge.
Chloe Handling from the CCRC press office confirmed to The Pembrokeshire Herald previously: “I can confirm we have received two applications for John Cooper.”
“However, we won’t be able to comment any further while the review is underway.”
With no fixed timeline for completion, Cooper’s case remains under detailed review.
The Herald will continue to follow developments and provide updates as they emerge.
(Cover image: Athena Picture Agency)
News
Withyhedge site monitoring cost the council £170,000

PEMBROKESHIRE County Council’s monitoring of the controversial Withyhedge landfill site and unsuccessful legal challenge cost it nearly £170,000, councillors heard.
Last October, Pembrokeshire County Council went to court to seek an interim injunction against operators RML after asking it to give a legally binding undertaking to stop the odour coming from Withyhedge Landfill, near Haverfordwest.
The legal action came after months of residents complaining of foul odours and potentially harmful gasses coming from the landfill site.
A circuit judge found that the tip was causing nuisance, but believed that the council had gone about its application in the wrong way, refusing to grant an interim injunction.
The authority’s legal counsel had recommended the council appeal that decision, but this was not done due to costs involved and the situation at the tip had improved.
A report, presented by Cabinet member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett at Pembrokeshire County Council’s March 6 meeting, said: “Although our legal counsel did not believe this decision was correct and recommended an appeal, the Authority was in a difficult position when considering the costs of appealing and the costs outlay already incurred for taking the court action, as well as the provision of independent air quality monitoring and officer time dealing with this issue.
“This was due to the potential financial exposure considered against the fact that a marked improvement in the situation has been noted. We would like to stress that it is firmly believed that the legal pressure the council had placed on the operator in the period from April to October 2024 had a significant impact on the efforts and pace of the remedial works undertaken by the operator.
“Legal costs were ordered to be paid by the Authority in the sum of £169,110.87, although the actual sum was reduced by agreement to £100,000.”
The report also detailed other financial implications for the council: “Costs for air quality monitoring, legal and ancillary costs for translation of reports and some staff overtime in out of hours monitoring total £166,544 [to date]. This figure includes the additional static monitoring until 31 March 2025.”
Members heard that complaint numbers to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and PCC have been low since early January 2025 when waste tipping started again, other than a peak in mid-January from a Ricardo static monitor located at Spittal School, but were “not considered to be emanating from the landfill site,” with site inspections “indicating that the operator is following revised waste acceptance procedures which have previously been reviewed and accepted by NRW”.
Funding from Pembrokeshire County Council and Natural Resources Wales has been secured to allow the air quality monitoring via the static monitor at Spittal School to continue until March 31, but would cost £57,215 for an extra year, members heard.
Members agreed to note the report and to continue the air quality monitoring at Spittal school, reviewed on a quarterly basis, dependent on air quality results and the level of community odour complaints received.
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