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Flag presentation by US Air Force at Wings Over Carew event

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THE WINGS OVER CAREW event held on August 5, 2023, at Carew Cheriton Airfield was a momentous occasion that brought together representatives from Pembrokeshire County Council and the United States Air Force. The event featured the presentation of the national flag of the United States of America, which had been flown in an F-35A “Lightning II” during a training mission over the United Kingdom.

The Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Tom Tudor attended the event accompanied by Councillor Simon Hancock. The occasion marked a rare honour and privilege for the County Council as they were bestowed with the national flag of the United States of America.

The national flag of the United States was presented by the 492d Fighter Squadron, a distinguished unit from the United States Air Force. The flag significance as it had been flown in an F-35A “Lightning II” during a training mission over the United Kingdom. The gesture of flying the flag over the UK was a tribute to Pembrokeshire County Council, underscoring the close ties between the United States and the local area.

The F-35A “Lightning II” is a state-of-the-art stealth multirole fighter aircraft operated by the United States Air Force. It represents the cutting edge of aviation technology and is known for its versatility, speed, and advanced capabilities.

Local volunteer Keith Hamer highlighted that the day was not only about entertainment but also served a serious purpose, aiming to honour the American soldiers who were stationed locally during the Second World War and valiantly participated in the D-Day landings.

The entertainment during the day started at 10am and included a plethora of activities and displays. The event featured a captivating military vehicle parade, showcasing vintage motorbikes, and enrapturing performances by the Swansea Pipe Band. Among the highlights of the day was the thrilling exhibition by the renowned RAF Falcons parachute display team, demonstrating their aerial expertise and precision.

Furthermore, the event showcased an emergency display by the fire brigade, police, and ambulance service, demonstrating their dedication and preparedness in handling critical situations.

It was unfortunate to learn that the KC-135 aircraft was unable to take off as scheduled for the fly-by due to adverse weather conditions at its location.

The event was a resounding success, celebrating the strong ties between Pembrokeshire County Council and the United States Air Force. The presentation of the national flag of the United States, flown in the F-35A “Lightning II,” honoured and recognised the County Council’s role in fostering robust relations between the United States and the United Kingdom. The family fun day activities, including the thrilling RAF Falcons parachute display, military vehicle parade, and emergency service exhibitions, further added to the festivities and commemorated the sacrifices of American soldiers during the Second World War.

Despite the unfortunate weather affecting the KC-135 aircraft, the event left a lasting impression of camaraderie and gratitude for the shared history between the nations.

 

Community

Councillors needed for Kilgetty and Begelly Community Council

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A PEMBROKESHIRE community council, which only has half its council seats filled, is calling for anyone interested in becoming a councillor to think about joining it.

Kilgetty and Begelly Community Council which cover areas such as Reynalton, Thomas Chapel, Begelly and also Kilgetty, is on the lookout for new members, having six vacant seats out of 12.

Peter Adams, Vice-Chair said: “The community council currently has six vacancies for our council, and would very much like to hear from anyone who may be interested in becoming more involved in community matters.

“The only commitment asked, is for a monthly meeting at the Kilgetty community centre on the second Thursday of the month to assist in decision making in the community, apart from the summer break which is usually in August when there is no meeting.”

He added: “KBCC council has 12 seats for councillors to represent the community covering the areas of Reynalton, Thomas Chapel and Kilgetty-Begelly; in recent years councillors have left for various reason due to retirement and other commitments etc, leaving us currently with six people.

“A lot has been achieved in the community in the last two years with a new park being opened, and now the completion of the ownership of the community centre the council feel that we need to encourage new people to come forward with ideas, and to also assist in the running of the increasing community facilities.”

Anyone interested please contact the council’s clerk Gary Price using the council’s website (www.kilgettybegellycouncil.co.uk) or phone 07984991520.

 

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HOPE MS Therapy Centre celebrates 40 years of support in Pembrokeshire

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A special evening of music and celebration marked four decades of service by HOPE MS Therapy Centre, one of Pembrokeshire’s longest-serving self-funding charities.

THE ANNIVERSARY concert took place on Friday evening (June 26) at St Clement’s Church, Neyland, bringing together supporters, trustees, local councillors and members of the community to celebrate the charity’s 40th year.

Founded in 1986, HOPE MS Therapy Centre provides support and therapies for people living with multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions across Pembrokeshire. The organisation has operated as a self-funding charity throughout its history, relying heavily on fundraising and community support.

Guests enjoyed performances from the Quaynotes Mixed Choir, along with acclaimed soloist Sarah Arthur, in what organisers described as an evening of music, song and thanksgiving.

Among those attending was Pembroke Mayor Jonathan Grimes, who praised the charity’s contribution to the county. He was joined by fellow county councillors and trustees including Simon Wright and Simon Hancock MBE.

Writing after the event, Cllr Grimes said: “Thank you to HOPE MS Therapy Centre for inviting me as Mayor of Pembroke to this evening’s concert to celebrate 40 years of service to Pembrokeshire.

“It was great to see my fellow county councillors and members of the trustee board as well as enjoying a fabulous performance from Quaynotes Mixed Choir and the fabulous soloist Sarah Arthur.

“Congratulations to HOPE MS Therapy Centre. I’m looking forward to being involved with the other events you have planned to celebrate 40 years.”

The concert is one of a series of events planned to mark the charity’s milestone anniversary year.

HOPE MS Therapy Centre continues to support people from across Pembrokeshire, providing therapies, advice and a vital social network for those affected by multiple sclerosis and related conditions.

 

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Fishguard joins Eisteddfod celebrations as Lord Rhys procession arrives in town

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Giant puppet procession brings Welsh history and culture to the streets ahead of this summer’s National Eisteddfod

FISGHUARD and Goodwick joined the celebrations today as the spectacular Carreg Filltir Las procession brought the story of Lord Rhys to north Pembrokeshire.

Residents lined the streets as a giant puppet of the 12th-century Welsh prince, created by Small World Theatre, made its way through the community as part of the build-up to this summer’s National Eisteddfod.

The procession commemorates 850 years since Lord Rhys hosted what is widely regarded as the first Eisteddfod at Cardigan Castle in 1176.

Fishguard was one of the stops on the route, with families, local residents and Welsh language supporters turning out to welcome the larger-than-life figure as it passed through the town.

Organisers say the project aims to connect communities across the Eisteddfod area while celebrating Welsh language, culture and heritage.

The procession forms part of the build-up to Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las, which will be held in north Pembrokeshire from August 1 to 8.

The festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors and will showcase Welsh music, literature, performance, art and culture.

The Lord Rhys journey has already visited communities across west Wales and will culminate in Cardigan, the historic birthplace of the Eisteddfod tradition.

Photo caption:

Crowds gathered in Fishguard as the Lord Rhys procession passed through the town as part of the build-up to the 2026 National Eisteddfod.

 

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