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Newcastle Emlyn’s James Williams triumphs with maiden victory in British Rally Championship

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TEIFI driver James Williams, hailing from Newcastle Emlyn, notched his maiden victory in the Motorsport UK British Rally Championship. Williams, at 25 years old, partnered with co-driver Dai Roberts to steer their Michelin-equipped Hyundai i20 N Rally2 to a remarkable third-place finish at the JDS Machinery Rali Ceredigion, marking a significant milestone in his rallying career.

Williams, who had been competing in the Junior BRC category since 2017, expressed his elation, saying, “I’m delighted to take my first BRC win, and it’s well deserved. It’s been a long time coming, and I have to thank my team, supporters, sponsors, and local backers who played a vital role in this achievement.” He emphasized the need for more seat time to maximize his performance in the Hyundai.

The Aberystwyth-based event unfolded across two intense days, featuring 100 miles of challenging stages that combined fast moorland roads with narrow, hedge-lined lanes. The rally drew thousands of enthusiastic fans, lending a vibrant international atmosphere to the event.

Williams showcased his talent early in the competition, securing third place on the opening stage, only five seconds behind the leader, Meirion Evans. However, a detour into a field during the second test momentarily dropped him to sixth place. Determined to make a comeback, Williams delivered four top times on the second day, reclaiming his position on the podium and securing his first BRC victory. He further boosted his points with a strategic Joker card play.

The overall rally victory was claimed by 2022 British Rally Champion Osian Pryce and co-driver Stephane Prevot, while Garry Pearson and Daniel Barritt secured the runner-up spot in their Volkswagen Polo GTi. Pearson, currently the closest contender to series leader Adrien Fourmaux, maintained a strong performance throughout the weekend.

The Junior BRC category featured a captivating battle, with Ioan Lloyd initially leading in his Peugeot 208 Rally4. However, Kyle White surged ahead over subsequent stages. Yet, local heroes Lloyd and co-driver Sion Williams returned to the top spot on Sunday, securing their first Junior BRC victory to the delight of the home crowd. White still remains in contention for the championship.

In contrast, Kyle McBride and Liam McIntyre endured a challenging rally in the Fiesta Rally4, suffering a non-finish after an unfortunate jump-related incident.

Returning to the series, Callum Black entered the National Rally Title contest in his Pirelli-equipped Ford Fiesta Rally2, putting on a strong performance and briefly holding second place overall. He eventually settled for fourth place and maximum National points.

Welshman William Mains made a triumphant return in his Vauxhall Nova, clinching a class win and second place in the National Rally Title alongside co-driver Tomos Whittle.

The British Rally Championship now shifts to gravel for the final two rounds of the season, with the Trackrod Rally Yorkshire in September and the penultimate event of 2023.

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Wanted: Steven Kimpriktzis in connection with drug trafficking operation

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DYFED-POWYS POLICE have said they are urgently seeking information leading to the arrest of Steven Kostas Kimpriktzis, aged between 45 and 50, in relation to a significant drug trafficking operation.

Kimpriktzis, an alleged central figure in an Organised Crime Group (OCG), is accused of conspiring to supply Class A controlled substances across Liverpool, Dorset, and Pembrokeshire between May 2021 and March 2022.

The police allege Kimpriktzis’s direct involvement in the orchestration of drug movements that have significantly impacted the regions involved. Standing at approximately 175 to 180 cm (5′ 10″) with a medium build and described as White European in ethnicity, Kimpriktzis has known connections in both Liverpool and Reading and has been spotted in Greece recently.

The Dyfed-Powys Police force is leading the charge in this cross-regional investigation, emphasising the severity of the charges against Kimpriktzis. As part of a larger OCG, his activities have drawn considerable concern, prompting a nationwide alert for his apprehension.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information regarding Kimpriktzis’s whereabouts or activities. Confidential tips can be relayed anonymously by contacting 0800 555 111. The police stress the importance of community assistance in curtailing the operations of such organised crime groups, which pose significant risks to public safety and wellbeing.

In the ongoing battle against drug trafficking within the UK, the capture of individuals such as Steven Kostas Kimpriktzis represents a critical step in dismantling networks that fuel illegal drug distribution and associated criminal activities. The Dyfed-Powys Police remain dedicated to this cause, urging anyone with knowledge that could lead to Kimpriktzis’s arrest to come forward.

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‘SPARC’ Powering progress for females – launches on International Women’s Day

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ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, Pembrokeshire College proudly hosted the highly anticipated launch event of the Sustainable Power, Renewables, and Construction (SPARC) Alliance. This occasion celebrated women and effective collaboration between industry, notably the Alliance members: Blue Gem Wind, Floventis Energy, Ledwood Engineering, Port of Milford Haven and RWE Renewables, local secondary schools, and Pembrokeshire College.

The collective aim of SPARC is to promote gender diversity in these underrepresented industries. Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales, Fay Jones, delivered an empowering address, emphasising the importance of initiatives like SPARC in promoting gender diversity. Wales Office Minister Fay Jones said: “I was delighted to come to Pembrokeshire College on International Women’s Day to celebrate the excellent work that’s been achieved by all the partners in promoting opportunities for young women. Encouraging women into professions like engineering and construction is vital to ensure they have the chance of achieving fantastic well-paid careers in their local area.

It’s great to see the UK Government’s investment in the Swansea Bay City Deal being used for such a brilliant scheme.” The event that was opened by Dr Barry Walters, Principal of Pembrokeshire College, reminding the audience of the current gender gap in the featured sectors and the role we all should play encouraging females into non-traditional roles.

Keynote speaker and trailblazer Jessica Leigh Jones MBE, captivated the audience with her insights into the pivotal role of women in driving innovation and progress in the green economy. A highlight of the event was the SPARC Alliance panel discussion Chaired by the former Minister for the Environment, Sustainability and Housing, Jane Davidson. The highlight was the female ‘Careers’ panel, five female professionals took time out of their busy schedules to inspire the next generation of engineers by answering questions from learners.

The SPARC Alliance investment and the additional funding from the Swansea City Deal, will support school teachers to deliver SPARC engagement activities. Awareness raising, building confidence and interacting with industry will add to unlocking female potential in these underrepresented industries. “Pembrokeshire College and Pembrokeshire County Council extend their gratitude to all partners whose unwavering collaboration and support have brought this transformative initiative to fruition, breaking barriers and building a future filled with opportunities for future generations.” SPARC Lead, Hayley Williams.

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Pembrokeshire man accused of ‘sexual activity’ with stepdaughter

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A PEMBROKESHIRE man has appeared before magistrates charged with committing sexual acts against his step-daughter.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is accused of engaging in ‘adult sexual activity’ with the girl between January 1, and June 4, 2021.

The acts included sexually touching the child, who was 16 or over at the time of the alleged offences, with his finger.

He faces a total of four charges of engaging in sexual activity with his family member.

No pleas were entered by the defendant when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday morning.

Following a request by the Crown Prosecution Service, magistrates declined jurisdiction in the matter, which will now be heard at Swansea Crown Court. Proceedings will commence on March 28.

The defendant was released on unconditional bail.

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