News

Duo armed themselves with bottles in Tenby

Published

10 years ago

October 29, 2014

TWO men from Pontypridd appeared in Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Oct 28) after both had been charged with disorderly conduct.

Mark Sweeney, aged 31 of Ynys Y Bwl and Ian Rhys Morgan, aged 32 of Leyshon Street both pleaded guilty to the charge.

Prosecutor, Ellie Morgan said: “On September 7 just past midnight, Sergeant Williams was on duty in Tenby on George Street. Bar staff came out of the Three Mariners Hotel and asked for immediate assistance. The two men were inside and had armed themselves with bottles. They acted aggressively and had already smashed a number of bottles and glasses, and were shouting ‘Come on you f****** w******.’ The officer approached them armed with pepper spray and asked them to put the bottles down. They complied but were still shouting ‘F*** you’. They were then detained and arrested.”

Ms Morgan continued: “CCTV of the incident shows numerous members of the public who were present running out of the pub. The officer said he was alarmed and felt fearful. Morgan said he couldn’t remember the important part, but before it happened he and his friend were having a laugh. He said he was very drunk and something drastic must have happened for him to act in that way, saying ‘We must have been outnumbered or something’. He was seen throwing a bottle and said he felt like he was being blamed for everything, but something must have happened. Sweeney said that males started shouting at them and he smashed a glass, but he shouldn’t have. He said he had eight pints and has a clear recollection one minute and then can’t remember what happens the next. He said ‘I was threatened and I was just reacting, you know?’.”

Defence solicitor, James Subbiani said: “Both pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and both were very frank and candid. They’d been to Oakwood in the day and decided to go to The Three Mariners Hotel. They were attacked and reacted inappropriately and ejected from the pub. They cooperated with police immediately, but they should have gone to the police themselves as they would have been treated like victims and not criminals.”

Probation officer, Julie Norman said: “Both were fully cooperative with me in preparation for the report. They’d been part of a party of four and had been to Oakwood. They booked a room in a B&B and the other two people decided to go back to the hotel. Sweeney and Morgan decided to stay out for one last drink and it all went wrong.They were drunk but were in a happy mood and had a good evening. They were provoked and an unpleasant incident occurred resulting in a scuffle.”

Ms Norman continued: “Sweeney has tried to sort himself out and get away from offending, and in the last eight years has gained employment and tried to lead a pro social life. Morgan is a married man and his last conviction was nine years ago. He was sentenced to a term of custody in the past and is disappointed he is back.”

After long deliberation, magistrates told the court: “We have been discussing custody as this is a serious offence. We don’t want that type of behaviour in our county. All of your previous offences have been drink related. You didn’t have to stay out, you could have just gone home and stayed out of trouble. When are you going to get the message?”

Magistrates imposed a 12 month community order with the requirement of completing 180 hours of unpaid work. They must also pay £85 cost and £60 victim surcharge.

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

17 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

17 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

18 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.