News
Man found guilty of rape and abuse of children
A CARMARTHEN man has been convicted of abusing and raping children following a trial at Swansea Crown Court.
James Thomas, aged 42, of Mansel Street, Carmarthen, denied all 21 charges – 10 of the rape of children, including two on a child under 13, nine counts of sexual assault on children and two counts of causing or inciting children to engage in sexual activity.
One victim said the abuse started when she was just five years old with Thomas touching her in a sexual manner, with the abuse going on for around six years.
Another victim told of how the touching started when she was 11 years old, before Thomas raped her before she was 13. The abuse went on for another three years.
Thomas, a former delivery driver, who was arrested by Dyfed-Powys Police following a victim’s complaint in January 2020, denied all charges and claimed the victims had made up the abuse.
But following a five-day trial he was found guilty of all 21 counts.
He has been remanded into custody and will be sentenced on Tuesday, 29 March.
Senior investigating officer DI Llyr Williams said: “Thomas treated his victims with complete contempt, callously denying their pain and grief existed.
“An excellent police investigation enabled the jury to return a guilty verdict, which is welcomed by the force.
“I would like to thank the victims for their courage and patience during a lengthy and protracted police investigation.
“His abuse will no doubt tragically have a lasting effect on them, however, we hope today’s verdict will give them some closure and allow them to move on with their lives.
“If you are suffering because of similar abuse, please contact the police ,or if you would rather speak to someone in confidence, New Pathways are an independent charity that will support you through every step of the investigation.”
New Pathways can be contacted at 01685 379 310 or email [email protected]
You can contact Dyfed-Powys Police at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.
News
Fatal crash appeal after driver dies on A44 near Aberystwyth
POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a driver died in a crash on the A44.
Dyfed-Powys Police said the collision happened at around 6:10pm on Tuesday (May 5) on the A44 between Capel Bangor and Goginan, near Aberystwyth
The crash involved a single vehicle, a white Volkswagen Golf, which was travelling eastbound towards Goginan when it left the carriageway.
Sadly, the driver died at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Police confirmed there were no other passengers in the vehicle.
Officers are now asking anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
Charity
Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return
Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront
MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.
The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.
Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.
Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.
Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.
The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.
Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.
Community support
Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.
“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”
Ticket information
Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.
Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.
The event is strictly over-18s only.
Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.
Charity
Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care
SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT
A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.
The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.
The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.
Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.
Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.
The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.
The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.
The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.
Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.
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