News

Veteran and Charity Founder attends Crabb’s Welsh Affairs Committee

Published

1 year ago

June 14, 2023

ARTIST, Veteran and VC Gallery Founder, Barry John MBE, was invited by Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee and Local Preseli MP, Stephen Crabb to present evidence about the role of the Veterans’ Commissioner in Wales.

In the evidence session held on Wednesday 14th June, members of the Welsh Affairs Committee, which is a cross-party group of parliamentarians, Barry John MBE, Graham Jones, CEO of Woody’s Lodge, and Stephen Boswell, Regional Head of Wales SAFFA answered questions about the charitable services they provide, and the challenges they face with the delivery of veterans’ services across Wales, and their interactions with the Veterans Commissioner for Wales.

Barry was able to discuss the VC Gallery’s role in the local community across the County, its work in establishing its range of creative support services, and experiences of local interactions with other public sector providers, such as Hywel Dda Health Board, and Pembrokeshire County Council.

The Welsh Affairs Committee also heard directly from the Veterans’ Commissioner for Wales, Col James Philips, about the Veterans’ Commissioner’s work in delivering the UK Government’s Veterans’ Strategy Action Plan in Wales to better understand the suitability of services currently being provided to veterans in Wales.

The Veterans’ Commissioner for Wales ‘2023 Priorities report’ states that around 115,000 people in Wales reported that they had previously served in the UK Armed Forces so it was important to hear how the Veterans’ Commissioner is working with a range of organisations to undertake his work, including multiple government departments of the UK and Welsh governments and agencies to support these veterans.

Commenting on the committee session, Stephen Crabb MP said,

“I was delighted to welcome Barry to Parliament today to be quizzed by my committee on the current pressures facing the veteran’s community in Pembrokeshire, and across Wales. Barry and the other panellists provided a really useful insight into the work they do to support veterans on a day-to-day basis and I was very interested to hear about their experience of the Veterans Commissioner.”

“Barry demonstrates on a daily basis the passion and motivation he has for providing a hub of support to our local veteran community. He has done a tremendous job over the years and it has been a pleasure to watch him grow the charity from an initial idea to the success it is today. His experience and insight was vitally important for the committee today.”

Barry John MBE commented, “ I appreciated being asked by Stephen to have the opportunity this morning to represent veterans, Pembrokeshire and Wales, with the perspectives from the ground work being done by the Third Sector and what we are doing to support the Armed Forces Community. It was good to discuss the support the appointed Veterans Commissioner for Wales has brought to our aims in our sector during these challenging times.”

Photo caption – Barry John MBE, Founder of the VC Gallery, with the panel at today’s Welsh Affairs Committee with Chair Stephen Crabb MP.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

11 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

11 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.

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

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

11 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!