POLICE in Pembrokeshire are renewing their appeal for information to locate Darren Markes, 46, from Pembroke Dock. He is wanted in connection with a domestic assault.

Markes is believed to have links to the Portsmouth and Sussex areas.

If you have seen Darren Markes or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact the police through one of the following methods:

• Online: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 101

You can also provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers:

• Phone: 0800 555 111
• Website: crimestoppers-uk.org

Please quote reference number 24*944729 when providing information.

IRISH Ferries’ Isle of Innisfree sustained damage during its first arrival at Fishguard port on Friday, December 20, 2024. The incident occurred as the ferry attempted to dock, resulting in a hole in the vessel’s hull.

The new Dublin-Fishguard route was hastily established in response to the ongoing closure of Holyhead port, which has been shut since early December due to storm damage. Holyhead, the busiest port between the UK and Ireland, is not expected to reopen until January 15, 2025, at the earliest

This closure has caused significant disruption to both passenger and freight traffic, with an estimated 100,000 people typically returning to Ireland for Christmas. The new Fishguard route was intended to alleviate some of this pressure and maintain vital connections between Ireland and Wales.

As the Isle of Innisfree approached Fishguard on its inaugural journey, it encountered difficulties during the docking process. While the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, the ferry sustained a hole in its hull upon contact with the port structures.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the incident. However, the damage has necessitated immediate emergency repairs.

The Herald understands that the ferry operator is currently assessing the damage and carrying out emergency repairs. Vehicles will be allowed to board once the vessel is deemed fit to sail.

This incident highlights the challenges faced by ferry operators in adapting to the Holyhead port closure. As the busy Christmas period approaches, both the Welsh and Irish governments are working closely with commercial ferry and port operators to increase capacity and minimise disruption.

Irish Ferries have been asked for a comment.

THE UNEARTHED FESTICAL is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in style, with headline performances from Macka B, Natty, and Ozric Tentacles.

Adding to the excitement, Marcus Gad is anticipated to join the lineup, though this awaits final confirmation, as stated in a recent newsletter to the festival’s mailing list.

The much-loved festival, renowned for its vibrant blend of music and arts, is gearing up for its milestone year. Organisers are urging festival-goers to secure their spots early, as campervan spaces, dog passes, and parking permits are in limited supply.

Early bird tickets for Unearthed 2025 sold out in record time, a testament to the festival’s enduring popularity among its dedicated fan base.

In a statement to attendees, the festival team said: “These epic artists are Unearthed icons, and as it’s our 10th anniversary festival, we couldn’t imagine celebrating without them.”

To mark the occasion, a redesigned festival website was unveiled last Friday, alongside the opening of applications for performers, volunteers, traders, and other contributors. The team encourages prompt submissions to ensure a chance to participate in this landmark event.

Adding to the festive spirit, organisers have also extended an invitation to their New Year’s Eve party—a warm-up to the main event next summer.

The Unearthed Festival has built a reputation over the past decade for delivering a unique community experience, blending diverse music, art, and culture in a way that resonates deeply with attendees.

As part of the broader summer festival scene, Unearthed continues to stand out as a celebration of creativity and connection, promising another unforgettable year in 2025.