News

Dramatic kayaker rescue by St Davids RNLI volunteers

Published

3 years ago

August 10, 2023

IN CHOPPY seas, St Davids RNLI volunteers sprang into action to save a kayaker in distress off the coast of Pembrokeshire on Thursday afternoon (Aug 10).

At precisely 1:48pm, the all-weather lifeboat Norah Wortley was launched, battling against the waves as it raced to the kayaker’s aid. The distressed kayaker had embarked from Whitesands and set out towards Gesial Fawr bay, but encountered difficulties during the return journey that lasted a harrowing two hours.

Quick thinking by a vigilant individual on the coast path led to the Coastguard being alerted, ensuring that help was on the way. Concurrently, RNLI Lifeguards stationed in North Pembrokeshire swiftly deployed a jet ski from Whitesands beach, maintaining a watchful presence until the arrival of the all-weather lifeboat.

As the scene unfolded, the crew of the lifeboat skillfully maneuvered a y boat to effect the rescue of both the beleaguered kayaker and the stricken kayak. A comprehensive assessment of the casualty’s condition was conducted, resulting in a positive declaration of their health and well-being.

With the successful recovery mission completed, the lifeboat embarked on its return journey, making its way back to Whitesands. There, the kayaker valiantly paddled back to the shore, conquering the challenging surf line with determination and skill.

The professionally executed rescue operation marked a significant milestone for Michael Phillips, who orchestrated his inaugural rescue launch as deputy coxswain. Having recently attained this prestigious qualification, Phillips exhibited commendable leadership and proficiency throughout the mission.

The entire operation, from the initial distress call to the safe return of the rescue crew, lasted a mere two hours. At 2:50pm, the all-weather lifeboat Norah Wortley was once again ready for service, a testament to the unwavering dedication and readiness of the St Davids RNLI team.

Crime

Four deny murder of Caerphilly teenager

Published

1 hour ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

FOUR people have pleaded not guilty to the murder of a 17-year-old boy.

Ricardo Elliot, aged 27, Connor Palfrey, aged 24, Elexi Manny, aged 24, and Georgie Mears, aged 18, appeared before Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Friday (March 20), where each denied killing Tristan Shae Kerr.

Emergency services were called to a property in Abertridwr, Caerphilly, at around 5:45pm on Wednesday (Feb 5) following reports that a teenage boy had suffered serious injuries. Despite efforts, Tristan was pronounced dead at the scene.

The court heard that the teenager is alleged to have been attacked with a so-called “zombie knife” measuring approximately nine to ten inches in length.

During the hearing, the four defendants spoke only to confirm their personal details and enter their pleas.

A trial is due to begin on August 3 and is expected to last around six weeks. A further pre-trial review has been scheduled for July 24.

All four defendants were remanded in custody.

Paying tribute after his death, Tristan’s family described him as a “deeply loved son, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.”

They said he was quick-witted, with a love for motorbikes and adventure, adding that he had a natural energy that lit up every room and drew people towards him.

Crime

Broad Haven man remanded in custody over sexual harm prevention order breach

Published

21 hours ago

March 20, 2026

Court Reporter

Defendant admitted using Xbox without informing police as required under court order

ANTHONY COOMBES, aged 26, of Sand Banks, Broad Haven, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Mar 20) charged with breaching a sexual harm prevention order.

The court heard that between February 26 and March 19, 2026, at Haverfordwest, Coombes repeatedly breached the order by using an Xbox device without informing police within three days, as required.

The offences relate to a sexual harm prevention order imposed at Swansea Crown Court on October 20, 2021.

Coombes indicated guilty pleas to the offences at the first hearing.

Magistrates committed the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentence.

He was remanded in custody ahead of the next hearing, which is due to take place at 9:00am on Friday, April 3, at Swansea Crown Court.

The court refused bail on the grounds that he was likely to offend, citing the nature and seriousness of the offences and his previous record and character.

A pre-sentence report was ordered.