News

Man accused of axe threat and attack released as charges dropped

Published

3 years ago

July 6, 2023

STUART JAMES, a 45-year-old resident of Nantucket Avenue in Milford Haven, has been set free after the charges against him were withdrawn. James was facing trial for allegedly threatening and attacking another man on February 9 within the town.

The accused was charged with several offences, including the act of menacing a person with an offensive weapon, causing bodily harm, inflicting serious bodily harm unintentionally, and possessing a sharply pointed article – specifically, an axe – in a public place.

The three initial charges all revolved around the same complainant, whose identity has been withheld.

During proceedings at Swansea Crown Court, the prosecution revealed that the complainant no longer wished to proceed with the case. Mr. Davies, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, explained that the complainant had been grappling with mental health challenges and felt that the stress of testifying at trial would be detrimental to his well-being.

The complainant reportedly believed that the time James had spent in custody was sufficient punishment in itself.

Consequently, Mr. Davies formally presented no evidence against the defendant.

Judge Geraint Walters, presiding over the case, subsequently found Stuart James not guilty, resulting in his immediate release.

However, Judge Walters did impose a two-year restraining order on James, with the intention of allowing the situation to calm down.

“Given the factual circumstances that you were present at the residence, it would be prudent for you both to be kept apart,” Judge Walters stated.

The decision to drop the charges and release the accused has generated mixed reactions among the public, raising questions about the impact of mental health struggles on legal proceedings and the appropriateness of the imposed restraining order.

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

Published

9 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A 20-YEAR-OLD man remains in a critical condition in hospital after being seriously assaulted in New Quay.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident happened at around 12:51am on Saturday (July 4) in Margaret Street, leading to Uplands Square.

The victim suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody.

Police said enquiries are progressing, led by CID and the Major Crime Team. A visible police presence is expected to remain in the area over the coming days.

Officers are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], by direct message on social media, or by calling 101.

Quote reference: DP-20260704-028.

Community

Kilgetty and Begelly tractor run raises funds for local charities

Published

11 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Around 70 tractors joined the annual charity road run, hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel

THE ANNUAL Kilgetty and Begelly Charity Tractor Run brought a colourful convoy to the roads around the Narberth area on Saturday (Jul 4), with around 70 tractors taking part.

The event was hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel, where farmers, families and supporters gathered before the start of the run.

Entrants were treated to bacon rolls and coffee by the hosts before setting off, while many families took the opportunity to pose for photographs alongside the tractors.

The road run once again proved to be a popular community event, bringing together local farmers, vintage tractor enthusiasts and supporters for a good cause.

The sight of dozens of tractors heading out together made an impressive display as the convoy travelled through the local area.

Organisers said local charities are set to benefit from money raised at the event.

The annual run has become a well-supported fixture in the local calendar, with farming families turning out in force to take part and support the fundraising effort.

For further information, contact Peter Adams at the Begelly Arms on 01834 812601.

Pictures: Malcolm Richards

Community

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival brings village together for colourful celebration

Published

11 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PONTRHYDFENDIGAID Carnival returned in style on Saturday, with a strong community turnout as villagers, families, children and young people gathered on the Village Green before the procession moved on to Bont Pavilion.

The afternoon was full of colour, music and community spirit, with bunting, balloons, decorated floats and smiling faces helping to create a true village celebration.

Among the highlights were the children’s and young people’s entries, which showed real creativity, confidence and effort. Farmyard scenes, animal costumes, a Noah’s Ark-themed float and brightly decorated tableaux all helped bring the carnival to life.

Organisers praised the work that had gone into the displays, competitions and activities, with many families clearly spending hours preparing costumes, props and entries.

The carnival programme featured a wide range of competitions, including floats and tableaux, children’s age-group entries, adverts, pairs, “anything on wheels” and the ever-popular welly throwing competition.

The mix of Welsh and English throughout the event reflected the strong local identity of Pontrhydfendigaid and the importance of keeping village traditions alive for the next generation.

Thanks were also paid to the organisers, volunteers, presidents, compères, families and all those who gave their time behind the scenes. Events of this kind take a great deal of work, and the turnout showed how much the carnival continues to mean to the community.

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival 2026 proved to be a joyful reminder of what can be achieved when a village comes together.

Photographs and report by Jeremy Rundle