News

Memorial fund thief escapes jail term

Published

10 years ago

August 1, 2014

A WHITLAND woman who stole cash raised to start a memorial fund in the name of a friend killed in a car crash has escaped an immediate jail sentence after borrowing enough to reinstate the fund. Natalie Thomas, aged 25, borrowed £8,500 to repay the fund set up after the death of Laura Rees, who worked at the day nursery at Glangwili Hospital and who died after a road accident on the A40 St Clears to Whitland road. Swansea crown court heard how friends and family members organised money raising events with the intention of donating in Laura’s name to the Bandi appeal, which was helping to finance the building of a centre for sick children in Carmarthen. Chris James, prosecuting, said Thomas, of Bryngwenllian, approached Laura’s mother Angela and told her she wanted to help, and went on to raise more than £10,000 during a charity night in January, 2013, attended by 800 people. Further, unknown amounts were donated in cash in collection boxes. Mr James said Thomas became obstructive and neither handed over the money or paid it into the charity’s bank account. However, Miss Rees’ family still trusted her, such was her perceived closeness. A year after Laura’s death, the turf was cut to begin the building of the new children’s centre and Mrs Rees had wanted to present the money raised so far in the name of her daughter. But Thomas still refused to hand over the money. And when Mrs Rees checked the status of the bank account she found there was only £1,950. The rest, added Mr James, could not be accounted for. Thomas tried to claim the real balance was about £11,250 but that she still had a number of cheques to pay in. In a bid to cover her tracks, Thomas began approaching local businesses asking for donations – she asked a monumental mason to give £10,000 and the resident of a care home for £1,500. Mr James said even after her arrest Thomas denied stealing the missing money, and claimed at first it was at the home of her brother. On being questioned by police a second time she admitted she had been “dipping” into the fund. David Williams, the barrister representing Thomas, said she had used the stolen money to help her family and not to finance a luxury lifestyle. “She regrets the pain that she has caused to her friend’s family, particularly Angela Rees. That was not her intention,” he added. He said since the offending had come to light local people had expressed “their severe disapproval in brutal terms.” A friend of Thomas had taken out a loan of £8,500 so she could repay the charity fund, and Thomas would in turn pay off the loan. Thomas admitted theft. Judge Christopher Vosper QC said an immediate jail sentence would badly affect Thomas’ children and could mean she could not continue to repay her friend. Thomas was jailed for 12 months, the sentence suspended for two years. She was also ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. Laura was killed in October 2012 while on the way to a bridesmaid dress fitting.

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

10 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

10 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

11 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.