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Osian Pryce triumphs with unwavering focus in thrilling Rali Ceredigion victory!

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Osian Pryce and co-driver Stephane Prevot clinched a decisive victory at this year’s JDS Machinery Rali Ceredigion. Their triumph was marked by a stellar performance, as they surged into the lead during the event’s second stage and maintained their dominance to cross the finish line a commanding 22.9 seconds ahead of their closest rivals.

Meirion Evans and Jonathan Jackson secured the second position, showing remarkable tenacity throughout the rally, finishing 8.6 seconds ahead of James Williams and Dai Roberts, who fiercely battled on the second day, ultimately determining the final podium standings.

Reflecting on his triumph, Osian Pryce expressed his satisfaction, saying, “It’s been a challenging rally, I’ve really enjoyed the driving and I’m delighted to have won. But I couldn’t have done it without everyone who has supported me, Melvyn Evans Motorsport for providing me with such a great car, and Stephane for being part of the team. This has been a fantastic event. It’s great for the area, great for the sport, and I applaud the organizers for all they have achieved.”

The stage for this year’s rally was set during the Rali Show and Ceremonial start on Aberystwyth Promenade, bathed in the stunning glow of a Cardigan Bay sunset, drawing massive crowds eager to witness the competing cars and crews.

The first day of the rally featured a trio of morning stages followed by a repeat in the afternoon, covering a challenging 54.32-mile route across the Cambrian Mountains. Day one concluded with two exhilarating stages in Aberystwyth, which captivated spectators with their half-mile blasts along the sea-front road.

The battle for supremacy intensified on the opening day when Pryce seized the lead after Evans encountered a spin and a puncture in the ETT Trailers Cwmerfyn 1 stage. Pryce showcased his dominance by claiming four fastest stage times out of eight, amassing a 42.4-second lead by day’s end. Evans, determined to mount a comeback, displayed resilience and won three stages to secure second place overnight.

Callum Black, eyeing the Protyre Asphalt Championship title, held second place on Saturday morning but opted for a conservative approach in the afternoon to ensure victory on the penultimate round. James Williams, despite a shaky start, maintained fourth place by day’s end.

The competition witnessed its fair share of drama, including marker-bale encounters for James Ford and Neil Shanks, which, fortunately, caused no significant mechanical damage to their Citroen C3 Rally2.

Saturday concluded with the Cambrian Training/Get Jerky/LAS Recycling Aberystwyth 1 & 2 stages, providing fans with thrilling entertainment and demonstrations by Matthew Wilson in an M-Sport Puma Rally1 Hybrid.

Sunday’s schedule featured a trio of runs over the Cambrian Mountains in the morning, followed by a repeat in the afternoon. Each of the top-five drivers pursued distinct strategies, with Pryce aiming for a comfortable lead, Evans pushing to narrow the gap, Williams striving for a podium place, Black securing the championship title, and Ford vying for a top-three finish.

While Evans exhibited speed in the day’s first stage, Pryce remained steady, and Williams made a strong push. The day’s action also witnessed a tied stage win between Evans and Williams. Williams eventually clinched two outright fastest times, but Evans held onto his second position.

Ultimately, Osian Pryce maintained his composure and flawless driving over the final three stages, securing his fifth fastest time of the rally on the penultimate stage. James Williams gave it his all but couldn’t surpass Evans, leaving the podium positions unchanged. Callum Black secured fourth place, and Garry Pearson and Daniel Barritt delivered a consistent performance to secure fifth place.

Phil Pugh, Chairman of the JDS Machinery Rali Ceredigion organising committee, commended Osian and Stephane for their impressive performance and thanked all participants, marshals, officials, sponsors, and partners who contributed to the success of the event. He expressed excitement about the prospect of hosting the rally once again next year.

The 2023 Rali Ceredigion Overall Results:

  1. Osian Pryce/Stephane Prevot (VW Polo R5): 1:24:30.8
  2. Meirion Evans/Jonathan Jackson (VW Polo R5): 1:24:53.7
  3. James Williams/Dai Roberts (Hyundai i20 Rally2): 1:25:02.3
  4. Callum Black/James Morton (Ford Fiesta Rally2): 1:26:18.1
  5. Garry Pearson/Daniel Barritt (VW Polo R5): 1:28:19.0
  6. James Ford/Neil Shanks (Citroen C3 Rally2): 1:29:29.1
  7. Kevin Davies/Owain Davies (VW Polo R5): 1:29:57.4
  8. Mark Kelly/Will Atkins (Skoda Fabia R5): 1:30:06.3
  9. Andrew Purcell/Shane Buckley (VW Polo R5): 1:31:53.4
  10. John Dalton/Gwynfor Jones (Darrian T90 GTR): 1:31:59.1

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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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