News

Pembrokeshire PATCH hardship charity founder to step down

Published

1 year ago

August 3, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A PEMBROKESHIRE hardship charity has paid tribute to its founder, who is stepping down at the end of the month.

PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action to Combat Hardship), which aims to relieve the effects of poverty for Pembrokeshire people, was founded by Tracey Olin, first opening its doors on June 3, 2008.

Since 2008 PATCH has been giving free food parcels, clothing and household items to those in a financial crisis, working closely with referral agencies.

PATCH, on its website, states: “People find themselves in financial crises for many reasons, including losing employment, waiting for benefits, homelessness, fire or marriage breakdown.”

PATCH also runs a charity shop from its base at Charles Street, Milford Haven and holds an annual Christmas toy appeal.

Following the news Tracey is to leave, PATCH issued a statement: “PATCH would like to say an enormous thank you to our founder, Tracy Olin, who will be leaving her post as general manager at the end of the month.

“Tracy has been leading the fight to end hunger and hardship in Pembrokeshire for over a decade, first as a volunteer and then as a paid member of staff. After basing the PATCH model on one she worked on in Southampton, Tracy has been the driving force behind PATCH’s commitment to lessen the impacts of poverty in the county.

“We cannot put into words how thankful we are for everything Tracy has done. Many of our service-users, partners and supporters will know Tracy personally and will understand the phenomenal impact that her kindness and hard work has had on the people of Pembrokeshire and beyond.

“As an organisation, we want to publicly thank Tracy for everything. Her ability to see the best in people is inspiring. Tracy’s courage and commitment to helping others, even when she has faced her own issues, should be commended.

“On behalf of your PATCH family, and the countless families and individuals you have helped, thank you.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

11 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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!