Community

Thieves target heating oil from south Pembrokeshire church as fuel cost soar

Published

4 years ago

May 2, 2022

Tom Sinclair

POLICE in Saundersfoot have said they are investigating reports that heating oil has been stolen from a church

The heating oil was allegedly taken from a tank at St Issell’s Church last month.

In recent weeks police have been warning people of thieves siphoning oil to avoid paying amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Reverend Steve Brett, from St Issell’s Church, said: “It was really disappointing to discover that heating oil had been taken. It has been reported to the police and we are taking immediate steps to protect our oil tank.

“We know that times are hard for everyone at the moment, and we are no different in church.

“If it’s been taken for personal consumption, and you are desperate to heat your home, come and have a chat, and maybe we can help you find a grant to buy heating oil, or find some other help. Please don’t turn to crime.”

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We had two calls on Sunday, April 10, reporting the theft of oil from two properties in Valley Road, Saundersfoot.

“Officers are reminding residents to protect their heating oil supplies to prevent any theft from storage tanks. Residents can take a few simple steps to prevent being a victim of theft.”

“A 1,000 litre tank can be drained within minutes and a tank that’s not properly protected will make an easy target for thieves looking to make some extra cash,” said a spokesperson.

“Fuel thieves usually target farms during the winter nights as the extended cover of darkness gives them more opportunities to steal.

“These criminals often use a basic tube to siphon away the fuel, but more sophisticated measures, such as pumping systems, are now being reported.”

People are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police by calling 101.

Farmers and rural homeowners are being targeted by oil thieves who are exploiting the surge in energy prices by selling stolen fuel on the black market

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, heating oil prices have climbed from between 60p to 70p per litre in February to around £1.30 this week.

The Countryside Alliance (CA) said fuel thieves traditionally target farms during the longer winter nights under the cover of darkness, which gives them more opportunities to get away unnoticed.

“These criminals often use just a basic tube to siphon away the fuel, but more sophisticated apparatuses – such as pumping systems – have been reported by police,” said a CA spokesman.

‘Keep tanks locked’

The NFU is reminding farmers and crofters to be extra vigilant to protect themselves against fuel theft.

“Fuel tanks should be kept locked when not in use, out of sight, and in well-lit areas,” said NFUS transport advisor Jamie Smart.

“Wherever possible, tractors should not be parked in the field. It is important to keep track of your fuel purchases and usage – dip your tanks daily so that you know if there is an unexplained loss of fuel.”

Rural insurer NFU Mutual said the average cost of a diesel theft claim was £2,120 in 2020.

Community

Rare photo shows original owner of 100-year-old ‘Charlie’ the ventriloquist doll

Published

11 hours ago

April 13, 2026

Cerys Lafferty

A PHOTOGRAPH has come to light of the first owner of ‘Charlie’, the 100-year-old ventriloquist’s doll who was a star turn when Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre opened for the new season last month.

On the opening day (Mar 30), Gerald Williams, a member of the Carew Cheriton Control Tower team, brought along a group photo which features both Charlie’s then owner, Ernie James, and Gerald’s father, Hubert.

It was the first time Paul Elliott, Charlie’s current ‘minder’, had seen a photo of Ernie, who was at one-time very well known as a local entertainer.

“This has made my day,” said Paul. “It is great to see a photo of Ernie, who originally acquired Charlie over 100 years ago.”

***Charlie is pictured with Gerald Williams (left), and Paul Elliott. (Credit: PDHT)***

Gerald added: “Both Ernie and my father were involved at one time with a travelling cinema, visiting communities all over this area.

“Ernie had his own small bus company called Pioneer Buses. This is where dad first met Ernie during driver exchanges during the war. They also worked together for Silcox Bus Company at Pembroke Dock.”

Charlie currently sits in a neat glass case keeping a watchful eye over visitors and volunteers at the Heritage Centre.

While the photograph has solved one mystery, another remains. Ernie is believed to have had another ventriloquist’s doll, named Daisy May. Anyone with information on Daisy May is asked to contact the Heritage Centre on 01646 684220 or [email protected]

Community

Lauren Clewes begins trainee solicitor role at Eaton-Evans and Morris

Published

1 day ago

April 12, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Pembrokeshire law firm confirms internal promotion after Lauren joined the business as a paralegal in 2024

LAUREN CLEWES has been promoted to trainee solicitor at Eaton-Evans and Morris Solicitors.

Lauren joined the firm in 2024 as a paralegal, working first with Helen Hodges and later with Pauline Mainwaring. Over the coming months, she will work alongside the firm’s fee earners across all departments as part of her training.

Sean Dyer, one of the firm’s directors (pictured), offered his congratulations on her promotion.

Community

Comedy in the Pavilion: Elis James at Eisteddfod y Garreg Las

Published

3 days ago

April 11, 2026

Richard Lewis

COMEDIAN Elis James will take to the Pavilion stage at the National Eisteddfod for the first time this year, performing on Wednesday, August 5 as part of the festival programme. Entry to the gig is included in the Maes day ticket, and with strong roots in the area, his return promises an evening of laughter and a warm homecoming atmosphere.

Famous for making quick connections with people from across Wales on his podcast ‘Elis & John’ on BBC Sounds, Elis will no doubt receive a warm welcome at the National Eisteddfod, arguably one of the best places in the world to connect with fellow Welsh people. With his observational comedy, often inspired by his upbringing in west Wales, this is expected to be an evening full of humour, marking the halfway point of the Eisteddfod week.

Elis said: “I’m very excited. I’ve never done stand-up in the Pavilion before. Mam will be there, I’m sure other members of the family will be there too, but don’t worry, I’m one of those people who is funny under pressure!”

Betsan Moses, the Eisteddfod’s Chief Executive, added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Elis back home to the Garreg Las area.

“As a Welsh comedy giant, we’re looking forward to a night of humour in his company, reflecting the true spirit of the Eisteddfod.”

Elis was born in Haverfordwest and raised in Carmarthen. He’s a comedian, podcast presenter, actor and broadcaster. Since 2014, he’s presented a radio show with his friend and fellow comedian, John Robins, originally on Radio X before moving to BBC 5 Live in 2019.

Among the UK’s most popular comedians, Elis toured Wales with his show Derwydd in 2024, recording a performance at Carmarthen’s Lyric Theatre. He has since returned to English‑language stand‑up after a ten‑year break.

Day Maes tickets, which include admission to the gig, are available on the Eisteddfod website.

Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las will be held in Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire between August 1 and August 8.