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Drakeford thanks those who worked through Christmas to ‘keep Wales safe and moving’

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THE FIRST MINISTER, Mark Drakeford has paid tribute to those who must work through Christmas to keep Wales safe and moving in his first Christmas speak since the end of Covid restrictions.

In his Christmas speech, the First Minister also remembers all those around the world who are suffering as a result of war and famine.

Mr Drakeford said: ”Nadolig Llawen i bawb. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope this will be a time of rest and of peace.

“For the first time since the pandemic started, we will have a chance to spend this time of year with friends and families – as we have done for years before.

“As we do, think about all those who can’t be with their families, who are affected by war and famine around the world.

“Christmas is a time for generosity, for giving and community spirit.

“Let’s also think about all those people who will be working this Christmas to keep us safe over the festive period.

“From community volunteers to NHS staff and our emergency services. Thank you for everything you do.

“Diolch yn fawr i chi gyd. I wish you all a happy, restful and peaceful Christmas.

“Merry Christmas. Nadolig Llawen i chi gyd.”

Tribute to Queen and reflecting on war in Ukraine: Andrew RT Davies

Meanwhile, Andrew RT Davies, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, used his Christmas message to pay tribute to the HM The Queen and reflect on the ongoing war in Ukraine.

He also mentions the challenges people in the UK currently face amid the cost of living crisis, but urges people to consider those less fortunate than themselves, and to ‘hold our loved ones closer’ this year to compensate for time lost over the past two years.

He said: “I’ve always taken time around the Christmas period to reflect on the year we have had as a family, a community and as a country.

“The word ‘historic’, some might say, has been overused in recent years – but the last year truly has been one of historic proportions.

“Like many people, I am not old enough to remember the coronation of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her passing has undoubtedly caused incredible sadness, but in time we will think back on Her reign and Her remarkable life with fond memories.

“Her enormous contribution to our country had not only a stabilising effect over decades of change, but also instilled a sense of duty and public service in all of us. Her legacy is the continuation of that selflessness in all of us.

“We are faced with extraordinary domestic circumstances, influenced by international events including in Ukraine and the aftermath of the global pandemic.

“The situation in Ukraine, while being felt here in our rising energy and supermarket prices, is still a devastating tragedy for the Ukrainian people.

“We must not forget that since this barbaric escalation began in February, the people of Ukraine have been standing tall in opposing the unacceptable actions of Putin.”

“I am proud that as a country we are doing what we must to support President Zelensky and his people in defending their sovereign country and the many millions of displaced civilians who did not ask for this conflict.

“There will undoubtedly be painful moments ahead, but by facing up to our challenges, we will overcome them, together.

“Our country and this continent have overcome periods of considerable adversity before and we will do so again.

“It is appropriate, at this time of year in particular, to think of and embody the true spirit of Christmas by considering those less fortunate than ourselves and to spend some time with loved ones.

“We must compensate for lost time by holding our loved ones extra close this Christmas. Particularly giving thought to those older friends and relatives who have been deprived of that crucial warmth of togetherness in recent festive periods gone by.

“This Christmas I am thinking of those displaced Ukrainian citizens who won’t be able to sit around their family table.

“I think of those people who have lost loved ones to the pandemic who have an empty seat at the table this year.

“And I think of those who will be spending Christmas alone. Perhaps somebody experiencing that will live on your street, so knock the door, share a pot of tea, and take a little bit of time to make a big difference to someone’s Christmas.

“And so my message for 2023 is one of hope and togetherness, because brighter days do lie ahead for this great country and its people. Merry Christmas.”

 

Entertainment

Cardigan musician to perform climate fundraiser concert

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CLASSICALLY trained Cardigan musician Rosalind Powell will perform a concert of original alternative pop songs next month in aid of Cardigan Extinction Rebellion.

The concert, Singing for the Future, takes place at St Mary’s Old School Hall, Cardigan, on Saturday, June 6, at 7:00pm.

Rosalind, who has a music degree from Cambridge University, is a composer, pianist and teacher of piano, singing and music theory.

The concert will show another side of her musicianship, with a programme of original songs drawn from her three albums, Sound Eagle, Circumference and Dragonfly.

It follows a successful recent launch event for Sound Eagle at the Cellar Bar.

Rosalind said: “Climate change and biodiversity loss are issues that I care deeply about, and I’m so pleased to be able to give my support through music.

“Our future is threatened by the climate and nature crises, but so many people are doing positive things to improve the situation and bring us hope. I’m glad this fundraiser will help towards that.”

Tickets will be available on the door, with a suggested price of £8, although those who cannot afford the full amount can pay less. Teas, coffees and cakes will also be available.

Rosalind’s Sound Eagle album recently received a warm review from The Pit London music site, which described it as “a dreamy and reflective world” and praised its blend of alternative pop, soft jazz influences and classical piano.

Rosalind said she has already been featured on 15 radio stations, will perform at Llangollen Fringe’s Music Around Town event in September, and is planning a West Wales tour later this year.

The concert falls on the first day of Great Big Green Week. Weather permitting, Cardigan Extinction Rebellion will also hold a street stall on Wednesday, June 10, giving away plants, seeds and information about gardening for wildlife.

 

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Car bursts into flames near Redberth Croft as road closed after incident

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Nobody injured after vehicle fire near A477 prompts emergency response

A CAR was destroyed by fire near the entrance to Redberth Croft on Tuesday evening (May 19), prompting a road closure while emergency services made the area safe.

The incident happened just off the A477 at Redberth, where a vehicle caught fire and rolled into a hedge and the new entranceway to Redberth Croft.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze.

In a statement shared on social media, Redberth Croft thanked firefighters for their rapid response.

The business said: “A huge thank you to the Fire Brigade for their swift response in safely putting out a car fire that rolled into our hedge and new entranceway at Redberth Croft.

“Thankfully nobody was hurt, and we’re incredibly grateful for the professionalism and quick action of the emergency services.”

Photos from the scene show the vehicle completely burnt out, with extensive damage to the engine bay and interior, as firefighters worked nearby.

Motorists were warned to avoid the area while the road remained closed for safety reasons.

Redberth Croft added: “Please be aware that this is just off the A477 next to our new entrance, and the road is currently closed while the area is made safe. Please avoid the area and take care if travelling nearby.”

It is not yet known what caused the fire or whether any other vehicles were involved.

Photo caption:

Burnt out: Fire crews at the scene after a car rolled into the hedge near the entrance to Redberth Croft (Pics: Redberth Croft)

 

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Milford Haven mourns loss of ‘legend’ Muci Power

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Tributes pour in for former Lord Kitchener landlord

TRIBUTES have flooded in from across Milford Haven following the death of Alan Edward Thomas “Muci” Power, remembered as a “true legend” and one of the town’s best-known characters.

Mr Power, affectionately known as Muci, passed away suddenly but peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Sunday, May 10, aged 79.

Best known to many as the former landlord of the Lord Kitchener public house in Milford Haven — affectionately known as “The Kitch” — Muci became a familiar and much-loved figure in the town, known for his humour, friendship and larger-than-life personality.

The devoted husband of Meryl, father, grandfather and great-grandfather leaves behind a family at the centre of Milford life, while countless friends have spoken of the memories they shared with him over many years.

The Royal British Legion paid tribute, saying: “Rest in peace, Muci. You will be dearly missed by us all here at the Royal British Legion. Thank you for the memories and your presence in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones during this difficult time.”

Hundreds of tributes have also been posted online, with many describing Muci as a “Milford legend” whose passing marks the end of an era.

Friends remembered good times at The Kitch, where Muci was at the heart of local life for many years.

Ryan Hackett wrote: “Will have a T.A.C. for you mate on Tuesday. Will miss you Matey. Another Milford legend gone.”

Simon Jenkins said: “Muci was one in a million, a true legend. Milford has lost a true gent.”

Many spoke of his warmth and generosity, with Nigel Hackett thanking him for “being there when I needed someone.”

Muci was the devoted husband of Meryl, dearly loved father and father-in-law of Karl and Claire, and Hayley and Roy, proud grandfather of Morgan, Sam, Caitlin and Jay, and adored great-grandfather of Amalie.

His funeral service will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Tuesday, May 26, at 11:30am.

For those wishing to pay their respects, the hearse will leave the Lord Kitchener, Charles Street, Milford Haven, at 10:40am.

Immediate family flowers only.

All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel: 01646 693180.

 

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