News

Pair on trial after Lola James, two, died from a ‘catastrophic’ head injury

Published

2 years ago

March 7, 2023

A MAN and a woman from west Wales are on trial over the death of a two-year-old girl who suffered “catastrophic” head injuries

Lola James was found at her home in Haverfordwest with serious injuries in July 2020. The toddler was rushed to Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital in Cardiff. She sadly died four days later of her injuries.

Lola’s mother, 29-year-old Sinead James of Neyland, is charged with causing or allowing the death of the toddler, and 30-year-old Kyle Bevan of Aberystwyth is charged with murder.

Both defendants deny the charges.

The trial opened at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday (Mar 7) before a High Court judge – Mr Justice Griffiths.

The complex hearing is expected to last upto four weeks.

Following the child’s death her father Dan Thomas said: “Lola, you have left a hole in the hearts of everyone you met.

“Your sparkly eyes and beautiful smile will be missed always.”

He said: “From the very first time I met my beautiful daughter, Lola Patricia James, my heart was filled with such joy, a happiness I’d never felt before, an unconditional love and need to always protect her for the rest of her life.

“Not in a million years did I think her life would be snatched away from her in such a cruel way.

“All the things she never had chance to learn, see or say, and all the things I will never have chance to teach her – to write her name, ride a bike or drive a car.

“Lola, you have left a hole in the hearts of everyone you met. Your sparkly eyes and beautiful smile will be missed always.

“I would like to thank every doctor, nurse and healthcare assistant that not only helped Lola, but threw everything they had at her to try and save her life.

“To the staff at Noah’s Ark, Cardiff, you truly were amazing.

“Rest in peace has never been so meaningful to me, but rest now Lola, whilst Daddy seeks the justice you deserve.”

At the time Pembrokeshire County Council has also paid tribute saying that the authority as a whole is “extremely saddened” by Lola’s death.

Haverfordwest Councillor Thomas Tudor said: “It’s a terrible tragedy that has happened.

“The town is in a state of shock.”

Crime

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

Published

13 hours 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

1 day 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

1 day 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.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!