News

Prison for abusive assault on ex-partner in front of her children

Published

3 years ago

June 6, 2023

IN A DISTRESSING case of domestic abuse, Max Young, a 30-year-old resident of Swn Y Mor in St Davids, has been sentenced to a total of 18 months in prison for a series of violent offenses. Young was found guilty of burglary, sending malicious communications, two counts of common assault, possessing cannabis, and a public order offense. Described by Judge Paul Thomas as a “violent and highly abusive” individual, Young’s actions have resulted in the imposition of a three-year restraining order.

The events leading to Young’s imprisonment unfolded at Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday, May 31. The court heard that earlier this year, Young had been in a relationship with the complainant. On February 18, the couple, accompanied by friends, visited the RAFA Club in St Davids. However, the evening took a distressing turn when Young subjected the complainant to verbal abuse and even discharged a fire extinguisher at her. The abusive behavior continued upon their return home, leaving the victim traumatized.

Several weeks later, on March 2, Young, visibly intoxicated, arrived uninvited at the complainant’s residence where she was present with her two young children, aged eight and two, as well as a friend. He proceeded to unleash a brutal assault on the woman, kicking her in the chest, throwing her into the stairs, and physically attacking her friend. The children’s cries were captured on the Ring doorbell recording, providing harrowing evidence of the incident.

Amidst the chaos, the two victims managed to force Young out of the house, seeking help from neighbors before contacting the police. However, even in custody, Young continued his abusive behavior, verbally targeting a female officer and repeatedly spitting in the police vehicle.

The court heard how the complainant suffered from physical injuries, including swelling, bruising, and a fractured finger. Her ordeal was exacerbated when Young violated his bail conditions on March 22, sending her a text expressing love before leaving a voicemail with a terrifying threat to her life. In a statement read out in court, the victim expressed her ongoing fear of Young and what he might do next.

In mitigation, Young’s defense counsel, Hannah George, acknowledged the defendant’s worsening alcohol issues and the deteriorating state of his relationship with the complainant. George argued that Young’s time behind bars had compelled him to confront his alcohol-related problems and express remorse for his actions.

Addressing Young directly, Judge Thomas did not mince his words, stating, “Your behavior towards a woman with whom you had been in a relationship with was nothing short of violent and highly abusive.” He emphasized the impact of the assault on the two young children who had witnessed their mother’s distressing ordeal, calling Young a “horrible abusive individual who attacks women.” The judge further remarked on Young’s inability to handle alcohol responsibly and urged him to recognize the consequences of his actions.

As a result of his crimes, Young was handed a 15-month sentence for burglary and an additional three months for sending malicious communications, to be served consecutively. He received a concurrent two-month sentence for both common assault offenses. The possession of cannabis charge, which stemmed from his arrest on March 2, and the public order offense did not attract separate penalties. Young had pleaded guilty to all the charges.

In addition to his prison term, Young was also served with a three-year restraining order, preventing him from contacting or approaching the complainant.

This case highlights the severe consequences of domestic abuse and serves as a reminder that such abhorrent behavior will not be tolerated in our society. The judgment, which reflects the seriousness of Young’s offenses, seeks to protect the victim and send a clear message that violence against women will be met with the full force of the law.

News

Paris in February made easy with special direct Air France flights from Cardiff

Published

2 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

TRAVELLING to Paris has never been simpler for Welsh holidaymakers, with Air France launching a series of special direct weekend services from Cardiff Airport to the French capital this month.

The limited-period flights offer a convenient, non-stop journey of under two hours to Paris, giving passengers more time to enjoy the city’s culture, cuisine and famous landmarks without the hassle of connections or long road transfers to other UK airports.

Timed perfectly for winter city breaks and Valentine’s getaways, the services run between February 13 and February 16, making them ideal for long weekends.

February is widely considered one of the best times to visit the French capital, with fewer crowds and a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. Visitors can explore world-famous attractions including the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame Cathedral, browse galleries at the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, or simply enjoy cafés, bistros and Michelin-starred dining across the city.

With Valentine’s Day falling during the operating period, the flights offer couples an easy escape for scenic walks along the Seine, memorable meals and classic Parisian experiences.

Jon Bridge, CEO of Cardiff Airport, said: “We’re delighted to offer direct flights to such a vibrant city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach, giving customers an easy, friendly travel experience and fantastic options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are excited to make this opportunity possible, with more to come from Cardiff.”

Seats are available now via airfrance.co.uk and through travel agents. As availability is limited, early booking is recommended.

Flight schedule

Cardiff (CWL) to Paris (CDG)

• Feb 13 – AF4149 – 6:20pm → 8:50pm
• Feb 14 – AF4149 – 3:20pm → 5:50pm
• Feb 15 – AF4149 – 9:20am → 11:50am
• Feb 15 – AF4151 – 9:00pm → 11:30pm
• Feb 16 – AF4149 – 9:20am → 11:50am
• Feb 16 – AF4151 – 5:50pm → 8:20pm

Paris (CDG) to Cardiff (CWL)

• Feb 13 – AF4148 – 5:00pm → 5:30pm
• Feb 14 – AF4148 – 2:00pm → 2:30pm
• Feb 15 – AF4148 – 8:00am → 8:30am
• Feb 15 – AF4150 – 7:40pm → 8:10pm
• Feb 16 – AF4148 – 8:00am → 8:30am
• Feb 16 – AF4150 – 4:30pm → 5:00pm

Education

Language commissioner launches probe into school closure impact on Welsh

Published

2 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

THE WELSH Language Commissioner has launched a formal investigation into claims that the proposed closure of a rural Carmarthenshire primary school did not properly assess the impact on the Welsh language.

Campaign group Cymdeithas yr Iaith confirmed this week that the Welsh Language Commissioner will examine whether Carmarthenshire County Council complied with its legal duties when producing a language impact assessment linked to plans to close Ysgol Llansteffan.

The council issued a statutory notice last year proposing to shut the village school at the end of the summer term as part of wider education reorganisation. A final decision had been expected this spring.

However, the investigation now creates fresh uncertainty over the timetable.

Complaint over ‘insufficient assessment’

Cymdeithas yr Iaith says it submitted a formal complaint arguing that the council failed to produce a sufficiently detailed assessment of how the closure could affect Welsh-medium education and the wider Welsh-speaking community.

The group claims the authority selectively used data to support closure rather than examining all available evidence objectively.

Two key concerns were raised.

Firstly, campaigners argue there may not be enough places in neighbouring Welsh-medium schools to accommodate pupils from Llansteffan and nearby housing developments, potentially forcing some families into English-medium provision.

Secondly, they say the assessment did not meaningfully consider the school’s role as a community hub or explore ways the site could generate income and support local Welsh-language activities.

On behalf of local members, Ffred Ffransis said: “There will not be places for all the Llansteffan children, nor for the children of the new housing estates, in other Welsh-medium schools in the area.

“The most cost-effective way of providing sufficient places locally in Welsh-medium education is by keeping open Ysgol Llansteffan and making better use of the buildings, including environmental education and community use.”

Formal investigation

In a letter to the group, the commissioner confirmed an investigation will be held under Section 71 of the Welsh Language Measure to determine whether the council complied with Welsh language standards.

The probe could take up to three months.

Campaigners believe this may delay implementation of the closure and could require the council to revisit its assessment and potentially carry out a fresh statutory consultation.

Ffransis said: “Even if the council now decided to make a full and meaningful assessment, there would likely have to be a new consultation. The original decision may have been taken on a faulty basis.”

He added that similar concerns had been raised about language impact assessments connected to other proposed school closures in the county.

Council position

The council has previously said that school reorganisation proposals are driven by falling pupil numbers, financial pressures and the need to ensure sustainable, high-quality education.

Authorities across Wales have faced difficult decisions in recent years as rural rolls decline and building maintenance costs rise.

It is expected the council will respond formally to the commissioner’s investigation in due course.

What happens next

If the commissioner finds that language standards were not properly followed, enforcement steps could be taken and the process delayed or revisited.

For families in Llansteffan, the outcome may determine whether their local Welsh-medium school remains open beyond the summer term.

The Herald has contacted Carmarthenshire County Council for comment.

Further updates will follow as the investigation progresses.

Business

First Minister criticised after ‘Netflix’ comment on struggling high streets

Published

2 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Government announces 15% support package but campaigners say costs still crushing hospitality

PUBS, cafés and restaurants across Wales will receive extra business rates relief — but ministers are facing criticism after comments suggesting people staying home watching Netflix are partly to blame for struggling high streets.

The Welsh Government has announced a 15% business rates discount for around 4,400 hospitality businesses in 2026-27, backed by up to £8 million in funding.

Announcing the package, Welsh Government Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford said: “Pubs, restaurants, cafés, bars, and live music venues are at the heart of communities across Wales. We know they are facing real pressures, from rising costs to changing consumer habits.

“This additional support will help around 4,400 businesses as they adapt to these challenges.”

The announcement came hours after Eluned Morgan suggested in Senedd discussions that changing lifestyles — including more time spent at home on streaming services — were contributing to falling footfall in town centres.

The remarks prompted political backlash.

Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Jane Dodds, said: “People are not willingly choosing Netflix over the high street. They are being forced indoors because prices keep rising and wages are not.

“Blaming people for staying at home is an insult to business owners who are working longer hours just to survive.”

Industry groups say the problem runs deeper than consumer behaviour.

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) welcomed the discount but warned it would not prevent closures.

Chris Charters, CAMRA Wales director, said: “15% off for a year is only the start. It won’t fix the unfair business rates system our pubs are being crushed by.

“Welsh publicans need a permanent solution, or doors will continue to close.”

Across Pembrokeshire, traders have repeatedly told The Herald that rising energy bills, wage pressures and rates — rather than a lack of willingness to go out — are keeping customers away.

Several town centres have seen growing numbers of empty units over the past year, with independent shops and hospitality venues reporting reduced footfall outside the main tourist season.

While ministers say the relief balances support with tight public finances, business groups are calling for wider and longer-term reform.

Further debate on rates changes is expected later this year.