News

Pure West manager Toby Ellis tells MPs its been ‘impossible’ for him to get a local FM licence

Published

3 years ago

March 2, 2023

THE WELSH AFFAIRS COMMITTEE met in Parliament this week to discuss radio broadcasting in Wales (Mar 1).

Toby Ellis, Station Manager, Director and Broadcaster, Pure West Radio was joined by Terry Mann, Station Manager, GTFM Radio and Martin Mumford, Managing Director, Nation Broadcasting as witnesses for Wednesday’s morning session.

Chaired Preseli MP by Stephen Crabb, the two hour meeting provided an interesting insight into the state of radio broadcasting in Wales, and more importantly the challenges of keeping radio relevant to local listeners at a time when many larger broadcasters were amalgamating output across multiple stations to cut costs.

During the session it became obvious that things need to change in Wales when it comes to radio broadcasting, and that the status quo could no be maintained. All the witnesses said that the regulator Ofcom could be doing a lot more to support the future of radio services in Wales, ecpecially when it comes to providing licences to new up and coming stations

Toby Ellis was the first in the hot seat. Asked why Pure West Radio was not on FM, and was relying on internet broadcasting, he explained it was down to red tape.

Toby Ellis said: “We haven’t been able to put an application in; that has been the issue.

“Ofcom told us that there has been no community licence available in Pembrokeshire for you . There is no local commercial radio licence, because that is already occupied until 2025.

“That is it, there is no opportunity for you. However, you can apply for a small-scale DAB, but that rollout has taken some time.

“We’re waiting on the award on that – its exciting because we will be able to explore the DAB market. That’s great – but what about FM – you’ve said you’re not turning it off until 2030 and you’re not opening any FM licences in community or local radio – that is a problem.

Asked if he thought that the government regulator was the problem facing radio broadcasters in Wales, Mr Ellis said: “There are problems with Ofcom. We understand their vision and where it needs to go – but certainly stations like ours have suffered.

“We’re coming up to our fifth birthday on April 4 – its been a huge uphill struggle for us from day dot. Have I been deterred a few times – yes many-a-time. I could stack shelves in Tesco and have less stress and probably earn a lot more money.

“We do it because we are passionate about what we do, and we get a lot of people who get incredibly galvanised by it… There shouldn’t be the constraints we’re having.

“We should be able to access more people and if we had an FM licence we would be more self sufficient – we would create more jobs and we would be able to do what we do better.”
Toby Ellis said if his company had a licence he would have more revenue, and he would be more free from “financial constraints” and do more locally including creating a radio academy and launching a B-Tech in Pembrokeshire College.

“We do not want to go begging for money, when money should be spent in other areas. The NHS locally is in an awful state. The waiting times in our local A&E are shocking. I’d rather that money is spent on nurses than local radio. We can get by – with the correct licences and support from Ofcom and government we would certainly be able to flourish further.”

In summary, anyone wanting to start a community radio station in Wales is stuck with using the internet to broadcast, or local DAB radio – which is not yet operational in all areas of Wales. This is expensive, and for Pure West Radio they would need to rent space on two tranmitters to cover the whole of Pembrokeshire.

FM, while is still surives, would be the cheaper and more viable option for Pure West.

The next witness was Terry Mann, Station Manager, GTFM Radio, based in South Wales. He echoed what Mr Ellis had said and confirmed that Ofcom was not issuing any FM licences, instead concentrating on small-scale DAB, at the behest of the government.

NATION RADIO

The last witness was Martin Mumford, Managing Director, Nation Broadcasting. Chair Stephen Crabb MP asked him how local radio was now.

Stephen Crabb asked: “The vision which Toby Ellis outlined regards a strong role for start up stations serving their communities with real time information communicated to very local audiences, does that have a future in local radio?”

Mr Mumford explained that Nation Radio started in Pembrokeshire over 20 years ago with Radio Pembrokeshire and has been expanding ever since. He explained that nation was operating as much outside Wales as it does in Wales.

“We have been hindered in our expansion because of the lack of radio frequency. Small scale DAB is order-of-the-day
Mr Mumford explained that five years ago 90% of revenue for Nation’s radio stations came from ad sales made by an ‘army of salespeople’ – but that has now shifted to 50%, with the other 50% coming from advertising agencies. He also said that programmatic advertising – advertising through a smart speaker which is tailored to you – is something that Nation are now looking to in the near future..

Mr Mumford also explained that music requirements for radio stations should be done away with. He said that Radio Pembrokeshire has a licence requirement to play pop music – and for example if they wanted to play a classical track they were not allowed. Stephen Crabb agreed – saying that it should be scrapped but the requirement for local news should be kept.

Asked by Stephen Crabb what his definition of local news was, Mr Mumford said that he thought that local news was provided on a national level on his stations in Wales – He said that BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru – which cost £24m per year to operate do news on a Wales-wide level and therefore he felt it was not for Nation to do things more locally if the BBC weren’t

HONOUR TO BE INVITED

Speaking after the Parliamentary session Toby Ellis posted on social media, saying: “Why isn’t Pure West Radio on FM or DAB? A question I get asked on a regular basis. Simply we can’t get a licence, today I went right to the top as I got to ask this question to MPs at the Houses of Parliament at an enquiry into local radio in Wales.

“It was an honour to be invited to give evidence and was a wonderful surprise to have Megan Absalom-Lowe from Haverfordwest High Radio and her family showing support at the hearing.

“We have hopefully been heard loud and clear so we can truly put the local back into local radio and get on the radio waves!”

Toby Ellis, Megan Absalom-Lowe and Mathew Rickard at The Houses of Parliament

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

6 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

6 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

7 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.