News

St Davids Carnival 2023: Families gather for day of fun and prizes

Published

1 year ago

August 29, 2023

BANK Holiday Monday in St. Davids was a vibrant spectacle as locals and visitors alike gathered at the Oriel Y Parc car park to kick off an afternoon of celebrations, parades, and community spirit.

From floats adorned with colourful displays to children and adults donning whimsical and creative fancy dresses, the atmosphere was electric. By 1:30pm, the car park was bustling with excitement as float participants took their positions. Shortly after, walkers, many dressed in a myriad of imaginative outfits, arrived, readying themselves for the parade’s start at 2pm.

Making its way through the town, the parade showcased the local spirit of creativity, enthusiasm, and unity. Parents held the hands of their young children, all eagerly awaiting the fancy dress competition that was set to take place at 3pm.

After the parade, attendees continued the festivities at the local rugby club. With activities ranging from face painting and hair braiding to live music performances and a selection of stalls, there was something for everyone. The gentle hum of conversation, punctuated by the excited shrieks of children jumping in bouncy castles, echoed throughout the venue.

The highlight of the day for many was the highly anticipated fancy dress competition. Categories spanned various age groups, from toddlers to adults. The judges had their work cut out for them as they deliberated over a dazzling array of costumes. Winners walked away with the pride of recognition, and in the case of the float competition, with substantial cash prizes. The top float took home a whopping £250, with second and third places securing £100 and £50 respectively.

Reflecting on the day’s events, one attendee commented, “It’s days like these that truly showcase the heart and soul of our community. It was fantastic to see everyone come together in such a fun and celebratory manner.”

Organisers were overwhelmed by the turnout and support. They took to social media, encouraging attendees to share their memories of the day, posting, “PLEASE LIKE AND SHARE”.

Bank Holiday Monday in St. Davids will certainly be remembered for its communal spirit, joy, and the sheer fun of the occasion. And as the sun set on this memorable day, there was a collective sense of anticipation for what next year’s celebrations might bring.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

5 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.

Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.

The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.

Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.

Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.

(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)

Business

Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure

Published

12 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.

The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.

The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.

A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”

Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.

Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.

From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.

Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.

(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

Published

13 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.

In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”

Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.

Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.