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Ted Owens: Farewell to a true Pembrokeshire hero

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A SOMBER yet proud atmosphere enveloped the streets of Pembroke Dock as around a hundred armed forces personnel and community members lined up to pay their final respects to a true hero, Ted Owens.

The decorated D-Day veteran, who fought courageously in the Second World War as a Royal Marines commando and marksman, passed away just weeks before his 99th birthday.

Born in 1924 in Pembroke Dock, Ted Owens’ life was a testament to bravery and dedication. He played a pivotal role in the liberation of Normandy in 1944, a contribution that earned him the esteemed Légion D’Honneur, the highest honor in France. On this solemn day, the community came together to honor not only his valor on the battlefield but also his profound impact on the lives of those he encountered.

Ted’s indomitable spirit was evident throughout his wartime journey. Despite sustaining injuries during the D-Day landing on Sword Beach on 6 June, he defied adversity and returned to the battlefield just a few months later, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his comrades and the cause of freedom.

A remarkable aspect of Ted’s story was his resilience in the face of adversity. He survived being injured three times in a span of just five months, twice seriously, and yet continued to play a pivotal role in liberating not only France but also Belgium and the Netherlands. His dedication to service and sacrifice resonated deeply with all who knew his story.

Beyond his wartime heroics, Ted Owens’ legacy extended to the realm of education and remembrance. In the program “Lest We Forget,” he embarked on a poignant journey with two primary school children, imparting invaluable lessons about World War Two as he retraced his steps as a young soldier. His firsthand accounts of the Normandy landing brought history to life, leaving an indelible mark on the young minds he interacted with.

“He may not have been a scholar, but he had a world of knowledge,” said Greg Lewis, Ted’s friend and TV producer, during the funeral ceremony. “It is not just a history book or a war diary that we have lost with Ted’s passing; we have lost a library of memories and wisdom.” These words aptly encapsulated the profound impact Ted had on generations far beyond his own.

As the hearse carrying Ted’s coffin made its way from Garrison Chapel to St. John’s Church, standard bearers led the procession, a poignant reminder of his military service and dedication. The local fire station played its part, with a fire engine leading the way, a symbolic farewell to a man whose courage burned brightly.

In his own words, Ted Owens reflected on his extraordinary life, saying, “I have had a wonderful life, exceptional.” The turnout at his funeral, the heartfelt tributes, and the tears shed by those who had the honor of knowing him underscored just how exceptional his life truly was.

The community of Pembroke Dock, along with veterans and armed forces personnel, united on this solemn day to bid farewell to a true hero, whose legacy of courage, resilience, and wisdom will continue to inspire generations to come. As Ted Owens takes his final journey, his memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who were privileged to know him and learn from his remarkable life.

Crime

‘Sheer luck’ that out-of-control car did not hit mother and baby

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IN MILFORD HAVEN a woman and her baby were on the way to the local shop on Saturday (Sept 28) when what was described at the scene as a “drunk driver” veered off the road, mounted the pavement, and struck the telegraph pole just next to them.

The pole, in Milton Crescent was damaged, causing heavy duty trunking to break off and hit the pram, damaging it, but narrowly missing the baby.

It seems Deanna Potter and her baby, Danny, were only saved by the fortunate position of the pole – which took a heavy impact – preventing the large black Audi from ploughing into them.

After the collision, the woman said, the driver “attempted to flee”, but her car was too damaged. She then exited her vehicle and walked away, “seemingly indifferent to the near-fatal accident” she had caused.

Police soon arrested the driver, and are investigating the incident.

Mother and baby are said to be doing fine, but are obviously shaken-up by the ordeal.

The police have been asked to comment. (Images: Facebook)

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Milford Haven honours fishermen with annual memorial service

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MILFORD HAVEN held its annual Fishermen’s Tribute Service on Saturday (Sept 28) at The Rath, in a heartfelt event that drew members of the community to honour its maritime legacy.

The Milford Haven Town Band played, adding to the solemnity of the occasion, attended by Mayor Councillor William Elliot, who laid a wreath on behalf of the town.

This year’s service, led by Reverend Samuel Patterson, focused on commemorating those connected to the fishing industry, reflecting on their contributions to the town’s prosperity. The event underscores the challenging conditions faced by fishermen and the pivotal role the fishing industry plays in Milford Haven’s economy and culture.

As part of the ceremony, attendees paid their respects at the memorial, which bears the inscription, “A Tribute to Our Fishermen,” affirming the community’s gratitude and remembrance of their efforts.

(Photos Lloyd Jones / Fiona Galliford)

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Narberth Food Festival: A feast of flavours and fun for all ages

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NARBERTH’S annual Food Festival has returned this weekend, bringing together a delicious mix of food, music, and educational activities that highlight the best of Welsh culture and cuisine. Held in the picturesque town of Narberth, the festival promises an exciting lineup of chefs, musicians, and local artisans, showcasing the rich diversity and culinary talent of Wales.

The festivities began with an Education Day, an enlightening experience for local school children from Narberth School and St Oswald’s VA School. The day was packed with engaging workshops hosted in a large marquee, including sausage making by Andrew Rees Butchers, seaweed discoveries with Câr y Môr, cake decorating skills by Ysgol Greenhill School, essential food preparation with Corinne Cariad, and delightful chocolate making with Wickedly Welsh Chocolate Co.

This educational initiative, heavily supported by local businesses and volunteers, is designed to teach the young attendees about the origins and production of food, a foundational knowledge that the festival organisers are keen to impart to the next generation.

As the festival opens to the public, attendees are invited to a culinary journey through the Food Theatre events on Saturday. Highlights include chef demonstrations from noted chefs like Dougie Balish of The Grove and engaging taste sessions with local food innovators such as Owen Rosser from Pembrokeshire Chilli Farm.

The Music Stage offers a melodic backdrop to the delicious fare, with a lineup that spans folk, rock, and acoustic performances. Saturday’s performances will see the likes of Abbie Jebbers and the dynamic duo BoxSet, while Sunday welcomes talents like Rosey Cale and the unique sounds of Ella Guru.

The festival is not only a platform for food and music but also a spotlight on the innovative local traders. Among them is James from Still Wild, who returns to share his foraging insights and his latest creation, Oystershell Vodka, already lauded with two Great Taste stars.

For the youngsters, the festival is packed with additional fun. Entry is free for under 16s, encouraging families to enjoy the face painting, circus skills workshops, and the antics of beloved street performers. These elements ensure that the Narberth Food Festival is a weekend where learning, fun, and gastronomy delightfully intersect.

Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or just in search of a vibrant community event, Narberth Food Festival offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all tastes and ages. With its commitment to education, local entrepreneurship, and cultural celebration, the festival continues to be a standout event in Wales’s festival calendar.

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