Community

A town’s farewell to Eric Harries, ‘Mr Milford Haven’

Published

2 years ago

February 3, 2024

ST KATHERINE’S CHURCH in Milford Haven was filled to near capacity on Saturday morning, February 3rd, as the community gathered to pay their last respects to Eric Ronald Harries, a pivotal figure in the town’s history who passed away last month.

The funeral drew a diverse congregation, including family, friends, mayors, councillors, and representatives from various clubs, sports clubs, associations, and charities that Eric was involved with throughout his life.

The Milford Haven Sea Cadets, whose officers served as pallbearers – along with Cllr Colin Sharp – were in attendance, marking the ceremony with a distinctive nautical theme—a fitting tribute to a man whose life was deeply intertwined with the coastal town. In keeping with this the first hymn was ‘Eternal Father, Strong to Save’.

The eulogy, by the officiating minister retired Parish Priest John Davies, captured the essence of Eric Ronald Harries’ indelible mark on Milford Haven, celebrating his lifetime of dedication to the town.

“Eric was such an important person to the town, and there was not a pie in Milford Haven that he did not have his hand in,” it was said.

His numerous accomplishments were listed, highlighting his involvement in a myriad of community activities, local politics and initiatives.

It was noted with admiration that despite his extensive contributions, “it’s surprising he had time for a wife and a family,” yet he did, leaving behind a loving family that includes children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The tribute painted a picture of a man whose life was interwoven with the fabric of Milford Haven, earning him the affectionate nick name “Mr Milford Haven.”

His legacy was celebrated not just for his public service but for his role as a cornerstone of the community, touching the lives of many and leaving a void that will be deeply felt.

As the Mr Harries’ coffin was led out of the church, heading for cremation at Parc Gwyn in Narberth, the orchestral version of the well known song “I am the music man” was played over the church speakers.

Mr Harries’ involvement in the community went beyond political office, touching various groups and organisations. He was a staunch supporter of the Milford Haven Museum, Waterloo Club, and the Milford Haven Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets, among others.

Tributes poured in from all corners of the community, reflecting the profound impact Eric had on Milford Haven. Dan Mills, Chair of Milford Haven Round Table, likened Eric’s motivational speeches to those of Churchill, highlighting his ability to inspire community contribution. Milford historian Jeff Dunn and town councillors Colin Sharp and Terry Davies shared their condolences, acknowledging Eric’s invaluable guidance and fatherly presence within the community.

Eric’s political career was remarkable, beginning as a town councillor in 1964 and serving as mayor in five different decades. His tenure saw him work with 40 different mayors and extend his service to Preseli Pembrokeshire District Council, Dyfed County Council, and Pembrokeshire County Council, where he held several leadership positions, including chair of planning and housing.

Beyond his political endeavors, Eric was instrumental in cultural and community initiatives. He was a founder and long-time chair of the Milford Haven Museum, where he played a crucial role in preserving the town’s heritage. His leadership also benefited the Milford Haven Rugby Football Club and the Sea Cadets, among others.

Reflecting on Eric’s retirement in 2022, Cllr Kathy Gray described him as an iconic figure who embraced change while valuing tradition. His enthusiasm for the town’s development was evident in his participation in significant events, such as the opening of the Ty Hotel.

Eric Harries’ passing is felt deeply within the Milford Haven community. His life and work, characterised by unwavering community service and dedication, leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and guide future generations. As Milford Haven bids farewell to this remarkable individual, his contributions to the town’s history and development will not be forgotten.

Community

Bongo Clive brings rhythm and smiles to VC Gallery celebration

Published

6 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK MARKED WITH MUSIC, LAUGHTER AND INCLUSION IN PEMBROKE DOCK

THE VC GALLERY in Pembroke Dock was filled with music, laughter and energy as visitors came together to celebrate Learning Disability Week.

The event saw popular entertainer Bongo Clive lead a lively session of singing, drumming and participation, with those attending joining in throughout the day.

The gallery said the session had created a joyful atmosphere, with music helping to bring people together and celebrate inclusion, creativity and wellbeing.

A spokesperson for The VC Gallery said: “The smiles said it all. A huge thank you to Bongo Clive for bringing your incredible energy, enthusiasm and positivity to The VC today. You certainly had everyone moving to the beat.”

Learning Disability Week celebrates inclusion and the abilities, creativity and individuality of people with learning disabilities.

The Pembroke Dock event highlighted the role of community spaces such as The VC Gallery in supporting wellbeing, friendship and confidence through shared creative activities.

Community

Sir Karl Jenkins named Eisteddfod President for 2026

Published

7 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SIR KARL JENKINS has been named President of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod for 2026.

The internationally acclaimed Welsh composer, one of the world’s most performed living composers, will take on the role as the festival prepares to welcome performers, competitors and visitors from across the globe.

Sir Karl is best known for works including The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace, Adiemus and Requiem.

His appointment comes in a landmark year after The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace was voted the most popular work in the Classic FM Hall of Fame 2026.

Opening night return

Sir Karl’s presidential year will begin with the opening night concert, Uniting Nations: One World, on Tuesday, July 7.

The concert had been due to take place in 2025 but was postponed, causing disappointment for volunteers, performers and audience members who had travelled from across the UK and overseas.

The Eisteddfod has now brought the event back with support from the Arts Council of Wales.

Sir Karl said: “I’m delighted to be returning to the Llangollen Festival this year and especially honoured to do so in the role of President.

“Llangollen is always a very special place to be, with its unique sense of community and international spirit.

“I’m greatly looking forward to conducting my most recent choral work, One World, particularly following the postponement of last year’s performance.

“It’s a piece that I feel reflects the very essence of the festival, bringing together outstanding musicians from across the globe to form one powerful collective voice.”

Global chorus

The evening will feature a full performance of One World, conducted by Sir Karl and performed by an international massed chorus made up of WorldChoir and NEW Voices, accompanied by the Llangollen International Orchestra.

The work blends Jenkins’ distinctive musical style with themes of humanity, compassion and environmental stewardship.

The concert will also include a complete staging of Peace Child: The Musical, which places young people at the heart of its message of peace and global citizenship.

Opening the evening will be the world premiere of Greeting the Dawn, a newly commissioned bilingual work by emerging Welsh composer Sam Buttler.

The piece was written for the 2026 Eisteddfod through the Harmony Without Borders initiative, continuing Llangollen’s tradition of supporting new talent and giving Welsh composers an international platform.

‘Great cultural ambassador’

John Gambles, Chair of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Sir Karl Jenkins has agreed to serve as President of the Eisteddfod for 2026.

“Few musicians have done more to promote the values of peace, friendship and international understanding that lie at the heart of our festival.

“Sir Karl is one of Wales’s greatest cultural ambassadors and his music has inspired audiences across every continent.

“The fact that The Armed Man has just been voted the nation’s favourite classical work is a testament not only to his extraordinary talent, but also to the universal appeal of the messages of peace, hope and humanity that run through so much of his music.”

Mr Gambles added: “The postponement of One World last year was heartbreaking for everyone involved.

“We knew how much the concert meant to audiences, performers and volunteers alike, and we were determined to find a way to bring it back.

“Thanks to the support of the Arts Council of Wales, we can now finally give this extraordinary concert the audience it deserves.

“With Sir Karl as our President, the return of One World, the world premiere of a major new Welsh composition and the powerful message of Peace Child, this promises to be one of the most memorable and significant opening nights in the Eisteddfod’s history.”

Festival programme

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod returns for its 79th year on Tuesday, July 7.

This year’s programme includes performances from Michael Ball, Emeli Sandé with the Absolute Orchestra, Uniting Nations: One World featuring Sir Karl Jenkins, and the Choir of the World competition.

Thousands of competitors from around the world will also take part in the daytime programme, with the Parade of Nations returning on Friday, July 10.

Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting from £33.

Further information is available at llangollen.net.

Community

Lord Rhys emerges from the mist in St Davids

Published

9 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Giant puppet begins historic journey marking 850 years since the first Eisteddfod

MIST swirled around St Davids Cathedral on Friday evening as a giant Lord Rhys puppet emerged from the fog to begin a journey celebrating 850 years since the first recorded Eisteddfod.

Accompanied by traditional musicians and followed by crowds of spectators, the towering figure cut an imposing sight against the backdrop of the ancient cathedral.

The procession marked the start of Taith yr Arglwydd Rhys (The Journey of Lord Rhys), a cultural pilgrimage retracing the legacy of the Welsh prince whose gathering of poets and musicians at Cardigan Castle in 1176 is widely regarded as the first recorded Eisteddfod.

As fog drifted across the city and church towers faded into the background, the scene felt more like a chapter from Welsh folklore than a modern-day celebration.

The giant puppet, accompanied by fellow performers and musicians, travelled from St Davids Cathedral to Oriel y Parc before beginning a wider journey through west Wales.

The travelling celebration will visit communities across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion before culminating in Cardigan, where Lord Rhys originally staged his famous cultural gathering eight and a half centuries ago.

Video and photographs shared by DrifterStDavids captured the remarkable atmosphere, with many describing the spectacle as one of the most memorable cultural events seen in St Davids for years.

Photo caption: Lord Rhys emerges from the mist outside St Davids Cathedral as celebrations begin to mark the 850th anniversary of the first recorded Eisteddfod

(Pic: SmallWorld – Video: Drifter St Davids)