Advertorial
Veteran opens Slimming World in Milford Haven
ARMY Veteran, Rachel, has launched her own Slimming World group in Milford Haven after her own positive experiences.
“I changed lives in the army and hope to continue changing lives for people in Milford Haven.”
Rachel was born and raised in Milford Haven. As a small child, she was “active and busy” and a real tomboy alongside her brothers.
In 1998, she joined the Army at 16-years-old as a Combat Medical Technician. Following training, Rachel served in Germany, all over the UK, overseas in Cyprus, and was deployed to Oman, Kosovo, Bosnia and Poland before retiring from service in May 2021.
Her role as a combat medical technician meant she often had to deal with soldiers who had been injured in war zones. Rachel described dealing with the range of injuries as “life-changing”.
Rachel’s job not only consisted of helping soldiers physically recover; she also helped them with their mental well-being.
She said she: “always pointed out the positives ahead of them for their lives and their families.
“The fulfilment I would get from seeing them recover and their family made whole again is so rewarding, I cannot put it into words.”
She has always been a strong, physically fit person. She enjoyed an active lifestyle and felt as though she “could always eat what she wanted.”
In 2017, she was posted to Harrogate. Rachel was 36 years old and had recently given birth to her third child, a daughter, after already having two sons aged 13 and 5.
She says she was almost two stone overweight even before her pregnancy.
Rachel said: “So here I was with four stone to lose. I had lost all confidence and was at a loss.
“I was at a GP surgery when I saw a poster for Slimming World. I was there for my daughter’s first vaccinations and that’s when I decided to join my local Harrogate Slimming World group.”
Rachel said she was welcomed to the group with open arms. She described the members as being lovely, offering to make her a hot drink after being weighed or hold her baby while she got settled into the group.
It was at this group that Rachel found her love for Food Optimising, which is Slimming World’s unique plan to lose weight and get healthy.
She swapped takeaway meals for ‘fakeaways’ using recipes she learned from her group.
After only a week, Rachel had lost 4 lbs and knew this new plan was one she could follow.
Over the next 10 months, she enjoyed curries, chillis, chips loaded with a variety of toppings and cheese within her daily allowance, and she could still enjoy treats every now and then.
By June 2018, she had hit her target and lost the whole four stone. She said she “felt amazing!”
Unfortunately, during lockdown, she became a single mum and was at an “all-time low”. She moved back to Pembrokeshire in December 2021 and quickly swapped healthy meals for quick and easy, high-fat processed meals.
Rachel said: “Being stuck in the house with three children during lockdown was hard.
“As I was working from home with nowhere to go, I found myself mindlessly eating as I was only eating out of boredom.
“I put almost two stone back on and I was devastated.”
In January 2022, she decided to get into shape again. She joined the local Slimming World group in Johnston.
Rachel said she had two stone to lose and was determined to return to her target weight.
She claims she was blown away by the consultant Kelly’s knowledge of the plan and her motivation.
“She guided me back through the new member talk, reintroduced me to my love of Slimming World and allowed me to fall in love with the plan all over again!” Rachel added.
“The warm atmosphere and the gentle reminder that the plan can be used for all the family reignited my passion.
“Since January 10, 2022, I have lost one stone and five pounds. I am only two-pounds away from my personal target.”
After talking about Slimming World and the freedom it allows Rachel to have, she joined Slimming World and trained to be a consultant.
Thanks to her time in the Army, helping those with their physical and mental health, Rachel feels that she would be well suited to helping those achieve their goals.
She commented: “The training is thorough and covers not only the plan but the psychology of wanting to lose weight.
“It has totally changed my views on how I shop, cook and eat food, and I hope my drive and motivation will help others to do the same.”
To join Rachel’s Slimming World group, call Rachel on 07391 634033 or visit Milford United Football Club, Marble Hall Road, every Thursday at 5.30pm.
Advertorial
Celebrate in style at Plas Pantyderi Manor
Luxury self-catering stays in North Pembrokeshire for birthdays, family gatherings and unforgettable celebration weekends
If you are looking for somewhere truly special to bring family and friends together, Plas Pantyderi Manor offers a celebration setting that is hard to match anywhere in Pembrokeshire.
Set within its own private grounds near Blaenffos, Boncath, this beautifully restored Grade II listed Georgian manor house is quickly becoming a go-to destination for birthday weekends, family celebrations, reunions and private group getaways.
Sleeping up to 21 guests, Plas Pantyderi combines the character and grandeur of a historic country house with the comfort, warmth and flexibility of a luxury self-catering retreat.
Whether it is a landmark birthday, a multi-generational family gathering, a long-overdue reunion, or simply an excuse to spend quality time together in beautiful surroundings, the Manor offers a private space where memories are made.

A private manor house made for bringing people together
Plas Pantyderi Manor is not just somewhere to stay — it is somewhere to celebrate.
The Manor’s large social spaces make it ideal for groups who want to enjoy time together under one roof. Guests can gather in the huge living room with its indoor bar and large fireplace, sit together in elegant reception rooms, relax in the snug, or enjoy the billiard room and play area.
At the heart of the house is the impressive dining room, with seating for up to 21 guests, creating the perfect space for birthday dinners, family feasts and special celebration meals.
The fully equipped social kitchen and large working kitchen also make self-catering easy, whether guests are preparing their own meals or planning something more indulgent.
Private dining with local chefs
For those wanting to make a special occasion even more memorable, Plas Pantyderi can work with local chefs to create a private dining experience at the Manor.
That means guests can enjoy the privacy and comfort of the house while still treating themselves to a professionally prepared celebration meal — ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, family weekends and special gatherings.
It is this blend of flexibility and luxury that makes the Manor stand out.

New spa area coming soon
Adding even more appeal, Plas Pantyderi is currently installing a brand-new spa area, including a:
- Hot tub
- Sauna
- Cold plunge
This exciting addition will give guests even more reason to book, helping turn a special stay into a full celebration retreat.
For local families and groups looking for a weekend away without travelling far, the spa development adds a fresh luxury element that will make the Manor even more attractive for short breaks and celebratory stays.
Space, comfort and character across three floors
The Manor offers 10 beautifully restored bedrooms across three floors, many with flexible bed arrangements, making it ideal for larger groups with different needs.
Inside, the décor reflects the property’s Georgian heritage, with muted tones, carefully chosen furnishings, Welsh artwork and locally produced Welsh blankets helping create a warm and elegant atmosphere throughout.
There are spacious living areas, cosy fireplaces, grand sash windows, lake views, and plenty of room for guests to spread out and relax.
From lively birthday meals to quiet morning coffees overlooking the grounds, the Manor gives guests the rare luxury of having both social space and privacy.

A local family-run business with Welsh heritage
Part of what makes Plas Pantyderi so special is the story behind it.
The Manor has been in the same family for three generations and is now run by local sisters Anna , Lisa and Efa, who have lovingly restored the property while keeping its character and heritage alive.
Set within the grounds of the family farm, the Manor is deeply rooted in the local area and reflects a genuine sense of Welsh identity, hospitality and pride.
For guests, that means staying somewhere with real history, personality and care behind it — not just another holiday property.
Private grounds and a stunning rural setting
Outside, the Manor is surrounded by sweeping lawns, a tree-lined driveway, a lake and peaceful Pembrokeshire countryside, with panoramic views towards the Preseli Hills.
The private grounds create the perfect backdrop for garden drinks, outdoor games, family photos, picnics and relaxed celebration weekends.
There is plenty of room for children to explore, space for guests to unwind, and a real sense of escape — all while still being within easy reach of the local area and coast.
Perfect for local celebration weekends
Plas Pantyderi is now placing greater focus on welcoming local people from Pembrokeshire and beyond who want a memorable place to celebrate with family and friends.
Instead of the stress of organising a celebration across multiple venues, the Manor offers the chance to bring everyone together in one impressive private setting — with room to dine, stay, celebrate and relax.
It is ideal for:
- Birthday weekends
- Family celebrations
- Reunions
- Friends’ getaways
- Special occasions
- Private celebration stays

Special Herald offer
Readers booking a stay at Plas Pantyderi Manor can enjoy a 10% Herald offer on breaks booked until 15th December 2026.
This makes now an excellent time to plan a celebration weekend, family gathering or private group stay.

Book your stay
To find out more or to book, visit:
Book now: https://pantyderi.com/book-now/
Website: https://pantyderi.com
Telephone: 07932 956099
Email: [email protected]
Plas Pantyderi Manor
Pantyderi
Blaenffos
Boncath
Pembrokeshire
SA37 0JB
Advertorial
Discover why patients are choosing Unique Smile Turkey
Modern treatment, competitive prices and a full support package are drawing growing numbers of UK patients to Antalya
FOR many people, the cost of private dental treatment in the UK can be difficult to manage. From implants and crowns to veneers and full smile makeovers, the price of restoring confidence in your smile can often feel out of reach.

That is why more patients are turning their attention to clinics abroad, and Unique Smile Turkey is becoming an increasingly popular choice.
Based in Antalya, one of Turkey’s best-known coastal destinations, Unique Smile Turkey offers a wide range of treatments for international patients, including dental implants, crowns, veneers, smile makeovers and full-mouth restorations. The clinic has built its reputation around combining modern dentistry with a welcoming, well-organised experience for visitors travelling from the UK.

One of the biggest attractions is value. Patients can often receive the treatment they need at a far lower cost than they might expect to pay privately at home, without compromising on the standard of care or the quality of the overall experience.
Unique Smile Turkey also aims to make the process as straightforward as possible. From the first consultation through to treatment planning and arrival in Antalya, the clinic promotes a smooth journey for patients who may be travelling abroad for dental care for the first time. Support with transfers, accommodation arrangements and tailored treatment plans all help take the stress out of the experience.
The clinic’s strong appeal to UK patients is also linked to convenience. Many treatments can be completed within a relatively short stay, allowing visitors to combine essential dental work with time in a sunny Mediterranean setting. For those looking to improve their smile while escaping the routine of everyday life, that combination is proving especially attractive.

Antalya itself adds to the appeal. Known for its warm climate, coastal views and hospitality, the city has become a major destination for health tourism. Patients can travel for treatment while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing environment, making the whole experience feel less clinical and more positive from start to finish.
Unique Smile Turkey says its focus is on delivering natural-looking results, professional care and a personalised service for every patient. With experienced clinicians, modern facilities and a clear emphasis on patient satisfaction, it is easy to see why the clinic is gaining attention among those considering treatment overseas.
For anyone thinking about improving their smile, replacing missing teeth or investing in a full dental transformation, Unique Smile Turkey is presenting itself as an option that combines affordability, convenience and high-quality care in one destination.

Advertorial
Why more patients are choosing Unique Smile Turkey
Modern treatment, competitive prices and a full support package are drawing growing numbers of UK patients to Antalya
FOR many people, the cost of private dental treatment in the UK can be difficult to manage. From implants and crowns to veneers and full smile makeovers, the price of restoring confidence in your smile can often feel out of reach.

That is why more patients are turning their attention to clinics abroad, and Unique Smile Turkey is becoming an increasingly popular choice.
Based in Antalya, one of Turkey’s best-known coastal destinations, Unique Smile Turkey offers a wide range of treatments for international patients, including dental implants, crowns, veneers, smile makeovers and full-mouth restorations. The clinic has built its reputation around combining modern dentistry with a welcoming, well-organised experience for visitors travelling from the UK.

One of the biggest attractions is value. Patients can often receive the treatment they need at a far lower cost than they might expect to pay privately at home, without compromising on the standard of care or the quality of the overall experience.
Unique Smile Turkey also aims to make the process as straightforward as possible. From the first consultation through to treatment planning and arrival in Antalya, the clinic promotes a smooth journey for patients who may be travelling abroad for dental care for the first time. Support with transfers, accommodation arrangements and tailored treatment plans all help take the stress out of the experience.
The clinic’s strong appeal to UK patients is also linked to convenience. Many treatments can be completed within a relatively short stay, allowing visitors to combine essential dental work with time in a sunny Mediterranean setting. For those looking to improve their smile while escaping the routine of everyday life, that combination is proving especially attractive.

Antalya itself adds to the appeal. Known for its warm climate, coastal views and hospitality, the city has become a major destination for health tourism. Patients can travel for treatment while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing environment, making the whole experience feel less clinical and more positive from start to finish.
Unique Smile Turkey says its focus is on delivering natural-looking results, professional care and a personalised service for every patient. With experienced clinicians, modern facilities and a clear emphasis on patient satisfaction, it is easy to see why the clinic is gaining attention among those considering treatment overseas.
For anyone thinking about improving their smile, replacing missing teeth or investing in a full dental transformation, Unique Smile Turkey is presenting itself as an option that combines affordability, convenience and high-quality care in one destination.

-
News2 days agoWatchdog criticises health board over £10m GP contract checks
-
Crime4 days agoFarm owner in court after 26 dogs removed over welfare concerns
-
News3 days agoPaul Davies meets Openreach Cymru at the Senedd to discuss Full Fibre rollout
-
Crime4 days agoTree surgeon sentenced for failing to provide breath test
-
Crime5 days agoPembrokeshire teenager admits driving almost four times over drug-drive limit
-
News4 days agoMilford man admits handling stolen goods from three local properties
-
Crime6 days agoBuilder jailed for £82,000 fraud affecting 18 victims
-
Crime3 days agoMilford Haven man admits affray after alleged pub incident







