News

Racist recording of Cllr Andrew Edwards could have been a ‘deep fake’

Published

2 years ago

April 14, 2023

THE COUNCILLOR accused of making racist comments in a private conversation – which was recorded and posted online may be the victim of a ‘deep fake’, The Herald can reveal.

Cllr Andrew Edwards says he does not recall ever saying those words – and analysis of the recording has shown inconsistencies which are in line with an audio file which has been digitally manipulated.

Deep fake voices are synthesized or manipulated using machine learning algorithms, making them sound convincingly like real human voices.

To detect a deep fake voice in an audio file, there are a few things you can do:

Listen for inconsistencies: Deep fake voices may have slight variations in pitch, tone, or cadence that sound unusual or inconsistent with a real human voice. Pay close attention to these variations to determine if they sound unnatural.
Look for lip-syncing issues: In some cases, deep fake voices may be paired with video footage that doesn’t match up with the audio, causing lip-syncing issues. If you’re unsure if a voice is genuine, try watching the video and paying attention to the speaker’s lips.
Compare with known samples: If you have access to a known sample of the person’s voice, compare it to the audio file you’re analysing. This can help you identify any inconsistencies or variations that may be indicative of a deep fake voice.
Use specialized software: There are several software programs available that can help you detect deep fake voices in audio files. These programs analyse the audio for inconsistencies and use machine learning algorithms to determine the likelihood of the voice being real or synthetic.
It’s important to note that detecting deep fake voices can be challenging, and it may require a combination of techniques to determine if an audio file is genuine or not – but why not have a listen to the recording and see if you can notice any of the inconsistencies described in points 1 to 4 above.

A former councillor, Cllr Paul Dowson, says he was the victim of fake social media content in 2020.

At the time he denied he shared images on social media that were racist, hateful to women and people of different religions.
Paul Dowson said the images, alleged by the union Unison to have come from his Facebook account, were “manufactured” by political opponents.

Speaking at the time he told reporters: “Give me 24 hours and I could come up with the same screenshots in your name.”

Mr Dowson “categorically” denied sharing the allegedly offensive posts.

He also denied he was racist.

Dowson was elected with a majority of four votes to represent the Pembroke Dock Central ward in 2017.

Mr Dowson said it was clear to him the posts had been “created by someone as part of their vendetta against me”.

Dowson said that it was more than credible that the audio file which is causing heat for Cllr Andrew Edwards has been manufactured by political opponents.

Dowson said: “Having heard the recording several times I would like to suggest that there is clearly gated compression in the clip which is a clear sign of manipulation.”

“The intonation of his speech and pitch of his words are not naturally flowing, and it sounds like the voice has been altered.”

“There are lots of apps and programs out there that can do this. Some of the software I am familiar with as a musician are more than capable of doing this.”

“If he is innocent I do feel for him as it seems therefore that there are people out there who are wanting to wreck his future – as they did mine.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

15 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

15 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

21 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”