News

Special reasons hearing set for drink driver

Published

2 years ago

January 21, 2023

A MAN who drove his vehicle around 400 metres before realising he was over the drink drive limit has been granted a special reasons hearing.

Richard Edwards of Redberth Close, Barry, pleaded guilty to one charge of driving under the influence of alcohol when they appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, January 17.

Prosecuting, Kelly Rivers, told the court how on December 2 of last year, 29-year-old Edwards drove a Volkswagen Touran on the A40 whilst over the legal drink drive limit.

Ms Rivers said that an officer on the A40 Cartlett, Haverfordwest, had noticed the defendant had no lights on and was seen swerving behind a taxi before completing an overtake manoeuvre.

Ms Rivers added how the officer said he could smell alcohol and the defendant appeared to be slurring.

During mitigation, defending solicitor Mike Kelleher told the court how Edwards was on holiday and was staying at the County Hotel in Haverfordwest at the time of the incident, when an argument started between Edwards and his partner.

Mr Kelleher added that the defendant had got in the vehicle to go for a drive to cool off, once behind the wheel he had realised that he was not in a fit state to drive so had gone to the roundabout to turn around and was attempting to make his way back to the hotel before being stopped by an officer.

It was also heard that the defendant was the sole carer for a young child who had serious mental health issues.

It was estimated by Judge Leyton that the defendant had driven approximately 400 metres before being stopped by the police.

A special reasons hearing was granted for the court to take the mitigation into account and decide on the length of disqualification.

A court date has been set for February 20.

The defendant was released on unconditional bail.

Crime

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

Published

1 hour 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

15 hours 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

15 hours 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.