News

Dowson found guilty of working as unlicensed door supervisor

Published

3 years ago

September 11, 2023

THE TRIAL of former Pembrokeshire County Councillor Paul Dowson concluded on the afternoon of September 7 at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, with Dowson found guilty as charged.

Dowson, 56, of Princes Street, Pembroke Dock, was accused of working as an unlicensed door supervisor at the Five Arches Tavern, Tenby between April 30, 2022 and June 4, 2022. Initially, he had denied the charge, and on the day of the trial, requested an adjournment, claiming that due to an amendment issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) just 24 hours prior, he wasn’t ‘legally equipped to deal with the new changes’. The amendment clarified that Dowson was a sole trader at the time of the offence rather than an employee.

However, SIA barrister, Eorann O’Connor, maintained that the amendment had no bearing on the case and argued against the adjournment. She expressed surprise at Dowson’s application to adjourn, especially since Dowson had consistently communicated his wish to represent himself. With seven witnesses present in court ready to give evidence, O’Connor stated, “It’s simply not in the interest of justice to adjourn today.”

Upon hearing the representations, the magistrates decided that the trial would continue. Following the conclusion of the trial in the afternoon, Dowson was found guilty. He is scheduled to be sentenced at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, September 12.

A court representative confirmed: “During the hearing on 07/09/2023, the Prosecutor applied to amend the 2 charges before the Court from Sections 3(1) and 3 (2)(b) Private Security Industry Act 2001 to – Sections 3(1) and 3(2)(a) Private Security Industry Act 2001, this was granted by the Magistrates.

“Mr Dowson maintained his not guilty pleas and the case proceeded to trial. Subsequently, he was found guilty after trial in relation to 1 offence and the other offence was Dismissed (no evidence offered).

“Mr Dowson has been given unconditional bail to 12.09.2023 at 12:00 for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.”

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

Published

1 hour ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A 20-YEAR-OLD man remains in a critical condition in hospital after being seriously assaulted in New Quay.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident happened at around 12:51am on Saturday (July 4) in Margaret Street, leading to Uplands Square.

The victim suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody.

Police said enquiries are progressing, led by CID and the Major Crime Team. A visible police presence is expected to remain in the area over the coming days.

Officers are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], by direct message on social media, or by calling 101.

Quote reference: DP-20260704-028.

Community

Kilgetty and Begelly tractor run raises funds for local charities

Published

3 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Around 70 tractors joined the annual charity road run, hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel

THE ANNUAL Kilgetty and Begelly Charity Tractor Run brought a colourful convoy to the roads around the Narberth area on Saturday (Jul 4), with around 70 tractors taking part.

The event was hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel, where farmers, families and supporters gathered before the start of the run.

Entrants were treated to bacon rolls and coffee by the hosts before setting off, while many families took the opportunity to pose for photographs alongside the tractors.

The road run once again proved to be a popular community event, bringing together local farmers, vintage tractor enthusiasts and supporters for a good cause.

The sight of dozens of tractors heading out together made an impressive display as the convoy travelled through the local area.

Organisers said local charities are set to benefit from money raised at the event.

The annual run has become a well-supported fixture in the local calendar, with farming families turning out in force to take part and support the fundraising effort.

For further information, contact Peter Adams at the Begelly Arms on 01834 812601.

Pictures: Malcolm Richards

Community

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival brings village together for colourful celebration

Published

3 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PONTRHYDFENDIGAID Carnival returned in style on Saturday, with a strong community turnout as villagers, families, children and young people gathered on the Village Green before the procession moved on to Bont Pavilion.

The afternoon was full of colour, music and community spirit, with bunting, balloons, decorated floats and smiling faces helping to create a true village celebration.

Among the highlights were the children’s and young people’s entries, which showed real creativity, confidence and effort. Farmyard scenes, animal costumes, a Noah’s Ark-themed float and brightly decorated tableaux all helped bring the carnival to life.

Organisers praised the work that had gone into the displays, competitions and activities, with many families clearly spending hours preparing costumes, props and entries.

The carnival programme featured a wide range of competitions, including floats and tableaux, children’s age-group entries, adverts, pairs, “anything on wheels” and the ever-popular welly throwing competition.

The mix of Welsh and English throughout the event reflected the strong local identity of Pontrhydfendigaid and the importance of keeping village traditions alive for the next generation.

Thanks were also paid to the organisers, volunteers, presidents, compères, families and all those who gave their time behind the scenes. Events of this kind take a great deal of work, and the turnout showed how much the carnival continues to mean to the community.

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival 2026 proved to be a joyful reminder of what can be achieved when a village comes together.

Photographs and report by Jeremy Rundle