News
Caldicot family still have hopes to find missing son James Nutley, 19 years on
IT HAS BEEN almost 19 years since James Nutley vanished without a trace during a golfing trip in the picturesque town of Tenby, leaving his parents, Catherine and Jeffrey Nutley, in an agonizing state of uncertainty. However, a recent surge of interest in the case has rekindled hope that answers may finally be within reach for the grieving couple.
On the fateful day of October 24, 2004, James Nutley, a 25-year-old golf enthusiast, went missing under mysterious circumstances. The last known sighting of him was captured on CCTV near the Giltar Hotel in Tenby at 23:57. Despite extensive searches and investigations, what transpired after that moment remains a haunting enigma.
“It is hanging over you all the time,” expressed Jeffrey Nutley, his voice heavy with the weight of 19 years of unanswered questions. “We were thinking ‘he’ll turn up in a day or two’ – 20 years later we’re still thinking ‘where is he?’.”
Recalling the events leading up to her son’s disappearance, Catherine Nutley described the ordinary excitement that filled the air that day. James, described as a “golf-mad” young man, was eagerly preparing for his golfing trip, seemingly content with his life and relishing his “dream job” as a golf club demonstrator. Little did they know that their lives would be forever altered by an unexpected turn of events.
The moment Catherine received the news of James’ disappearance, everything changed. Her sister and a friend rushed to her workplace to deliver the heart-wrenching news. “My sister said ‘James has gone missing in Tenby’,” Catherine recounted, her voice trembling with emotion. From that instant, their lives were consumed by an overwhelming sense of dread and the relentless pursuit of answers.
As Catherine made her way to Tenby, Jeffrey stayed behind, clutching the landline phone in the desperate hope that James would reach out. By the time she arrived, the search for James was already underway, and the couple found themselves in a state of numbing shock. Sleep eluded them as the realization of their son’s inexplicable absence sank in.
The investigation into James Nutley’s disappearance eventually went cold, with few breakthroughs emerging over the years. The Nutley family endured the anguish of numerous false leads and even a false murder confession, which only deepened their pain and prolonged their torment. Richard Fairbrass, who confessed to the murder and disposal of James’ body, later admitted to fabricating the entire story. In 2006, he was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison for attempting to pervert the course of justice.
Reflecting on the false confession, Jeffrey lamented, “It set us back a bit, it didn’t do us any good at all.” Yet, in the face of such setbacks, the Nutleys have not relinquished their hope of one day being reunited with their son.
Recently, the Nutleys shared their story on the podcast “The Missing,” which focuses on long-term missing persons cases. The podcast’s coverage has generated renewed interest in James’ disappearance, sparking a glimmer of optimism for the grieving parents.
As to what could have befallen their beloved son that night, Catherine and Jeffrey remain haunted by unanswerable questions. Did James plan to meet someone and embark on a different life? Or did someone abduct him, shattering their lives forever? The possibilities, while filled with uncertainty, persist as they continue to hope for a reunion with their son.
In their enduring search for closure, the Nutleys have experienced moments of false hope. They have believed to have glimpsed James through windows or in restaurants, only to have those hopes dashed. Catherine shared that whenever she sees a man begging on the street, she takes a closer look, just in case it might be her long-lost son.
The passing years have not dampened the Nutleys’ determination. Despite the absence of tangible leads, they remain resolute in their belief that a reunion with their son is still possible. “Well, you can’t give up, can you, until someone tells us differently,” said Jeffrey.
The couple refuses to accept the idea of a memorial service, as it would imply finality without knowing James’ fate. Their grief is suspended in a state of limbo, aching for resolution. “You can’t grieve because there’s no one there,” Catherine poignantly expressed.
Learning to live with the pain of not knowing, the Nutleys have carried the weight of their son’s absence while endeavoring to continue their lives. Catherine confides that she says her prayers at night, fervently asking for divine protection over James, wherever he may be.
As the renewed interest in James Nutley’s disappearance shines a spotlight on this enduring mystery, it is the fervent wish of Catherine and Jeffrey Nutley that this attention will finally bring them the answers they have been longing for. Only time will tell if their unwavering hope will be rewarded with the long-awaited reunion they so desperately desire.
Charity
Shalom House adapts to community needs amid financial struggles
A HOSPICE in St Davids is finding new ways to support the community after financial challenges forced changes to its operations. Shalom House, a well-loved facility on Nun Street, has shifted its focus in recent years, balancing healthcare provision with its founding mission.
Established in 2007, Shalom House was originally designed as a five-bed hospice offering respite and palliative care. Its creation was made possible by the donation of the property from Elizabeth de Guise, a novelist with a deep connection to Pembrokeshire. However, rising costs and funding shortfalls have led to significant changes in how the hospice operates.
In late October, the closure of St Davids Surgery prompted Shalom House to repurpose two of its rooms for use by a branch surgery. The facility is now home to a service staffed by practice nurses under Hywel Dda Health Board, ensuring local residents continue to have access to healthcare.
Balancing priorities
While the move has been welcomed by many in the area, it has come at a cost. Shalom House now operates with three respite beds instead of five, a change that has sparked concern among some supporters.
“We had to make a difficult decision,” a spokesperson for the hospice said. “Our primary goal is to serve the community, and this arrangement allows us to do so in multiple ways. The branch surgery provides vital medical care while helping us generate income to keep Shalom House open.”
The hospice continues to offer day-care services to several patients each week, with additional respite care provided as resources allow. Trustees are optimistic that full capacity can be restored in the future, depending on funding.
Community campaign brings hope
Despite the challenges, Shalom House has received overwhelming support from the Pembrokeshire community. A recent campaign, “Save Shalom,” has seen donations increase dramatically, offering a glimmer of hope for the hospice’s long-term future.
Local resident and campaign volunteer, Jenny Williams, said: “Shalom House means so much to so many people. It’s more than a building—it’s a lifeline for families across the county. We’re determined to do everything we can to keep it running.”
Looking ahead
The trustees are exploring new ways to raise funds and expand services, with plans to launch a series of community events next year. They have also expressed gratitude for the continued generosity of local residents, whose donations remain crucial.
“Shalom House has always been about Pembrokeshire’s people,” said the spokesperson. “Every penny donated helps us provide care and support to those who need it most. We’re confident that, with the community behind us, we can overcome these challenges.”
For more information about Shalom House or to make a donation, visit www.shalomstdavids.org.
Entertainment
A Christmas spectacular at St Davids Cathedral delights audience
A CHRISTMAS celebration of music and song enthralled audiences at St Davids Cathedral on Saturday (Dec 14), as the St Davids Cathedral Choir and Vox Angelica presented A Christmas Spectacular. The event, which began at 7:00pm, offered a festive evening of performances set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of one of Wales’ most iconic landmarks.
The concert featured the talented harpist Bethan Semmens, who captivated listeners with her intricate and emotive playing. A Cardiff native, Semmens studied at the Royal College of Music and has performed at prestigious events across the UK and internationally. Her contributions to the evening brought an enchanting touch to the programme.
The night was packed with beloved seasonal pieces, showcasing both choral and soloist performances. Highlights included the timeless Good King Wenceslas, Winter Wonderland, and festive classics such as The Twelve Days of Christmas. The Cathedral Choir delivered stirring renditions under the vaulted ceilings, with carols and arrangements that beautifully resonated throughout the space.
Special moments featured solos by Harriet Pearce and Sophie Cooke, who lent their voices to favourites like There Is No Rose and Balulalow. The audience was further treated to a moving arrangement of A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, performed in harmony with Bethan Semmens’ harp accompaniment.
A medley of carols encouraged audience participation, culminating in a joyful and spirited atmosphere. Families, friends, and visitors joined their voices for classics that brought warmth and festivity to the wintry evening.
The performance concluded with an uplifting recessional, leaving attendees with a sense of seasonal cheer. The Cathedral, adorned with Christmas trees and lights, provided the perfect setting for what many described as an unforgettable musical experience.
The Herald understands that A Christmas Spectacular was a resounding success, with plans already underway for next year’s event.
News
Greyhound racing in Wales: Future hangs in balance as decision delayed until 2025
THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’S decision to postpone a ruling on the future of greyhound racing until 2025 has sparked mixed reactions, with animal welfare groups voicing disappointment and industry representatives welcoming the extended timeline for discussion.
Welfare groups demand urgent action
Animal welfare organisations, including Dogs Trust, RSPCA Cymru, Blue Cross, Greyhound Rescue Wales, and Hope Rescue, have expressed dismay at the delay. The coalition, known as Cut the Chase, has long advocated for an end to greyhound racing in Wales, calling the postponement a missed opportunity to prevent further harm.
Their concerns mirror recent developments in New Zealand, where greyhound racing will be banned by August 2026 due to concerns over injuries and fatalities. Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, stated:
“The call to end greyhound racing in Wales has received overwhelming support from the animal welfare community, Members of the Senedd, and the public, with over 35,000 people signing a petition demanding change.
“It is unacceptable that so many dogs die or are seriously injured every year, all in the name of entertainment. Wales now stands alongside only a handful of countries, including England and Scotland, where this outdated and inhumane practice persists. The Welsh Government must take the only meaningful action to stop this cruelty: end greyhound racing once and for all.”
Public supports a phased ban
A consultation conducted by the Welsh Government revealed that 64.69% of respondents supported a phased ban on greyhound racing. Despite this, officials have opted to extend deliberations, with a final decision now expected in 2025.
Animal welfare groups highlighted troubling figures from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), which reported 359 racing greyhound deaths and 4,238 injuries in 2023 – a 47% increase in fatalities compared to the previous year. Concerns extend to off-track welfare, including reports of poor living conditions, inadequate nutrition, and lack of enrichment for retired greyhounds.
Industry defends its welfare standards
The GBGB has countered criticism by emphasizing welfare improvements at licensed tracks such as Valley Stadium in Wales. Mark Bird, GBGB Chief Executive, said:
“Valley Stadium’s licensing has brought significant welfare improvements, overseen by expert veterinarians and our national network of professionals. Racing greyhounds receive more oversight and protection than many pet dogs across Wales.
“We remain committed to working with the Welsh Government to promote and protect greyhound welfare through effective and proportionate regulation.”
Broader calls for change
The debate in Wales reflects a growing movement to end greyhound racing across the UK and beyond. In Scotland, a Proposed Prohibition of Greyhound Racing Bill aims to outlaw the sport, while New Zealand has committed to a ban, citing ethical concerns.
Decision delayed but debate intensifies
The Welsh Government has emphasized the need for thorough consideration before making a final decision. However, the delay has intensified divisions, with animal welfare groups urging an outright ban and the industry advocating for improved regulation as a viable alternative.
A final verdict is not expected until 2025, leaving the future of the sport – and the welfare of thousands of greyhounds – uncertain.
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