News

Pembrokeshire’s Muslims gather to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr; the end of Ramadan

Published

3 years ago

May 2, 2022

MUSLIMS in Pembrokeshire are celebrating the end of their holy month of fasting, Ramadan, with the two day Eid Al-Fitr festival.
Members of the local Islamic community gathered at the Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic centre in Milford Haven on Monday morning (0930 HRS, May 2) to share food and socialise.
Eid al-Fitr is a time of official receptions and private visits, when friends greet one another, presents are given, new clothes are worn, and the graves of relatives are visited.
Herald Editor Tom Sinclair said: “I was grateful to receive an invitation from the Manager of the Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic centre in Milford Haven this morning to participate in the celebration of the end-of-Ramadan or Eid Al-Fitr.
“Lots of lovely food and even Martin Mcgeown’s ice cream van. They are all hard working in the local area and run takeaways, shops, barber shops – there’s even care home workers, and a pharmacist:- all looked absolutely delighted to end their month of fasting.
“Well done guys I couldn’t have done it! Eid Mubarak to you all!”

Eid Mubarak! A month of fasting is over (Pic Herald)

What is Eid?
Maswood Ahmed, a member of the Muslim Council of Britain, says that “Eid is a time of celebration after accomplishing one of the most important religious duties: fasting during the month of Ramadan”. Lots of people celebrate this by spending time exchanging gifts and visiting friends and family.
He adds that you shouldn’t be surprised if you see lots of people hugging in the street as part of Eid celebrations. Men will hug other men as a sign of friendship, and women will do the same with fellow women: “If you go out on the street now, strangers, anybody they come across they’ll hug them… The whole idea is that whoever you meet, you try and create a feeling of good will. Any feeling of animosity is put aside, at least for one day!”
While there are lots of things that everyone will do at Eid, with approximately 2 billion Muslims across the globe, it’s not surprising that people can have some different ways of celebrating this holy festival.

The management of Nur’s Barbers in Milford Haven in traditional Kurdish costume (Pic Herald)

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

12 hours 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

1 day 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

1 day 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!