News
Police and Council downplay Tenby hotel incident calling it a ‘one off’
THE POLICE and Council have issued a joint statement to calm the Tenby public after a dramatic incident in a local hotel last week which led to the arrest of two men.
The Herald understand that the incident was a mental health related violent incident in a hotel used as accommodation for homeless people.
However, it seems that the authorities are keen that the Albany Hotel does gain the same reputation as
The Silverdale Lodge in Johnston. That accommodation was a source of many complaints to the county council and many police hours were spent on call outs to incidents which took place there.
The Council’s statement reads: “Further to the reported incident at the Albany Hotel which led to the arrest of two men last week, Pembrokeshire County Council and Dyfed-Powys Police would like to confirm that this was an isolated incident that was dealt with swiftly.
“Cllr Michelle Bateman, Council Cabinet member for Housing Operations, said: “We are extremely grateful to the owner of the Albany Hotel in Tenby for being able to provide accommodation and support for our county’s homeless residents.
“I am concerned with the negative comments made on social media and in the press in relation to the incident and the arrangement the Council has with this business.
“This is a much needed resource in the county where we are facing an unprecedented demand on our homelessness service and an acute shortage of affordable housing. Without the support of a number of B&B proprietors from across the county we would be in a far worse position with many more of our residents facing street homelessness.
“The support provided by the owner of this hotel and staff to those who are facing hard times in losing their homes is invaluable and as a Homeless Service we are satisfied with the management and support being provided.
“We ordinarily do not identify the accommodation we use for homeless placements due to the sensitivities and to maintain confidentiality of those residing there, as well as avoiding any negative media attention. The hotel owner also liaises regularly with immediate neighbours in case there are any matters of concern that they may wish to raise with him.”
Dyfed-Powys Police Sergeant Stuart Wheeler said: “The Local Neighbourhood Policing Team provides a visible presence in the community and we will continue to work closely with Pembrokeshire County Council and The Albany Hotel to address any local concerns.”
If there are any further concerns in relation to this matter, please contact the Council’s Housing Service on housing@pembrokeshire.gov.uk or via the County Council contact centre.
Charity
Letterston dog show raises over £750 for local charities
ON SUNDAY (Dec 22), Letterston Ring Craft successfully raised £755.55 for two Pembrokeshire-based charities during a fun dog show event. The funds were equally split between South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue and Letterston Memorial Hall.
The event featured a variety of well-attended classes, including child handling and fancy dress, drawing participation from dog enthusiasts of all levels.
This fundraiser marked the first charitable event supporting South Pembrokeshire Cat Rescue. Founded and managed by Lizzy Austwick, the rescue organisation aids unwanted, feral, and sick cats across Pembrokeshire and responds to urgent cases in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. The rescue provides neutering support for stray and feral cats, directs owners to available resources, and specialises in helping stray cats with severe injuries, raising essential funds for their care.
For assistance, Lizzy can be contacted via the rescue’s Facebook page or at 07575 131443.
Letterston Ring Craft welcomes new members interested in training and showing their dogs, from local companion shows to prestigious events like Crufts. The club meets every other Sunday in Letterston, and further details can be found on their Facebook page.
Looking ahead, the next fun dog show is scheduled for early next year and will support Belle’s Story Charity. For more information or to get involved, contact Gentle Lowe at 07956 653401.
Charity
£3,800 donated to services across Withybush Hospital
THE CAMROSE VINTAGE WORKING DAY team has donated £3,800 to services across Withybush Hospital.
Their 37th annual event raised a record breaking £25,000, which has now been distributed among 26 local charities.
They donated the funds to the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit and Heads Up! Hair Loss Initiative at Withybush Hospital. Each service received £950.
The Heads Up! initiative provides a person-centred, holistic hair loss service for cancer patients. It brings together healthcare and haircare professionals from local communities to give patients the knowledge and products needed to manage their hair loss with dignity and choice.
Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “Thank you to Andrew, the team and the supporters of the Camrose Vintage Working Day for your generosity once again. Your donation to each service is amazing and will make a big difference. We are hugely grateful for your wonderful support.
“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”
Pictured above: Andrew James, Chairman of Camrose Vintage Working Day with Withybush Hospital staff from the Stroke Ward, Specialist Respiratory Team, Chemo Day Unit, Heads Up! Hair Loss initiative.
Community
Neyland Community Christmas Lunch a festive success
NEYLAND TOWN COUNCIL rolled up their sleeves to support this year’s Community Christmas Lunch, spreading festive cheer and warm hospitality to attendees on Christmas Day at the Alumchine.
Councillors Steve Campodonic, David Devauden, Steve Thomas, and Brian Rothero began their efforts as early as 7:30am, working tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly.
The dedicated organisers, including Trish Campodonic, Pam, and Lloyd Hamilton, along with other volunteers, created a welcoming space filled with festive spirit and a delicious meal with all the trimmings.
The event brought together members of the community who might otherwise have spent the day alone, highlighting the warmth and generosity that Neyland is known for.
A heartfelt ‘Well done’ to everyone involved for making this Christmas lunch a resounding success and spreading joy to so many.
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