Community

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

Published

10 months 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.

Climate

Pembrokeshire group plans for larger community wind turbine

Published

4 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A NORTH Pembrokeshire group which has raised more than £76,000 from its community wind turbine for local projects is hoping to expand with a bigger turbine.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Abergwaun Community Turbine Ltd, through agent Machynlleth-based Dulas Ltd is hoping to get permission for a larger turbine to replace the existing Abergwaun Community Turbine.

The proposed turbine, in a pasture field at Trebover Farm, to the south of Fishguard, would be 67m tall, the existing 2015 one being 45 metres.

In supporting statements, parent company Transition Bro Gwaun said: “The Community Climate Fund (CCF) is the mechanism by which Transition Bro Gwaun (TBG) is fulfilling our ambition of funding projects in Fishguard, Goodwick and across North Pembrokeshire, using income from the community wind turbine.

“The core themes for grants are climate change mitigation and adaptation, enhancement of biodiversity and improvements to community resilience through promotion of community engagement and resource sharing.”

In 2015, TBG raised its 50 per cent share of capital funding for the project by means of loans from 28 local individuals and four community groups, contributing a total of £286,500, the other 50 per cent contributed by landowners Parc-y-Morfa Farms Ltd.

The statement added: “Profit generated by sale of electricity from the turbine is split 50:50 between TBG and Parcy-Morfa Farms Ltd through the jointly owned trading arm, Abergwaun Community Turbine. By the end of 2022, all loans had been repaid, allowing the launch of TBG’s Community Climate Fund. This year we have awarded our third round of grants bringing the total amount granted to £76,036.”

In 2022, £15,274 was awarded to seven projects, including Fishguard Sports AFC to install solar panels on their clubhouse as part of their Tregroes Park development, Ysgol Bro Gwaun for their Increasing Biodiversity and Bees project, and Nevern Valley Veg / Llysiau Cwm Nyfer to install a solar powered vegetable irrigation scheme.

In 2023, £39,85 was made available for seven projects, including Sea Trust Wales to part fund the installation of solar panels on the Ocean Lab roof and to produce a display on solar technology, Letterston Memorial Hall to part fund the installation of an air source heat pump heating system, and Fishguard and Goodwick Rugby Club to install solar panels on their clubhouse.

2024 awards of £20,917 were made to six projects, including Theatr Gwaun to insulate their loft to reduce heating loss, Parc Cerrig Growers for developing a rainwater harvesting system with a pond to irrigate their allotments, Caerhys Organic Community Agriculture for an electric cargo bike for delivering organic vegetables in the Fishguard and St Davids areas, and Nevern Valley Veg to develop wildlife ponds and rainwater harvesting for food production.

The supporting documentation concludes: “The repowering of the existing turbine at Trebover would require a limited increase in turbine size which would result in a very limited change in landscape and visual effects in comparison to the existing Trebover turbine.”

The application will be considered by planners at a later date.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

10 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

10 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!