News
Wales Audit Office query over Bryn’s £330k

Cashing in: Bryn Parry Jones
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL was thrown into chaos on Wednesday (Oct 29) when the controversial settlement agreement with Chief Executive Bryn Parry-Jones was ruled UNLAWFUL by the Wales Audit Office. Focussing on the proposal to compensate Mr Parry-Jones for loss of pay supplements he had previously deemed unlawful, Anthony Barnett from the Wales Audit Office, issued what he described as an “unprecedented” note debarring the Council from proceeding with the payment.
However, in a surprising twist, the Council says it has now reached agreement with the Wales Audit Office and the settlement agreement will proceed as scheduled.
A Council spokesperson told The Pembrokeshire Herald that the Council and its legal advisors have been in discussion with the Wales Audit Office since BEFORE the meeting of Council on 16th October and have “reached a consensus with the Auditor”.
The spokesperson concluded: “The Council will not be incurring any unlawful expenditure.”
The revelation that the Council was discussing matters with the Wales Audit Office before October’s vote is sure to raise many more questions about the majority group’s commitment to investigating the serious allegations made against Mr Parry-Jones.
Speaking on Wednesday, Labour leader Cllr Paul Miller said: “The Welsh Audit Office has backed up what it has been saying all along and has declared Bryn Parry Jones’ pay-off from Pembrokeshire County Council as “unlawful expenditure.” After speaking with Anthony Barrett (the Appointed Auditor) on the telephone tonight, he informed me that his concerns over unlawful payments focused specifically around the pension contributions that formed part of the settlement. Contrary to reports by the council that a deal had been struck, he also confirmed that it had not and that he still sees the pay-off as unlawful.”
Cllr Miller added: “As I said in my response to Jamie Adams’ comments that he believes the payoff was the right thing to do – the payments were unlawful, nothing has changed and Bryn should finish being investigated for gross misconduct. Bryn’s position is clearly untenable while this sorry saga drags on but we now have a chance to make sure this unjust and “unlawful” pay-off doesn’t go ahead.”
Cllr Miller concluded by saying: “The council have released a statement tonight claiming that they have changed some of the wording in the settlement and the Auditors concerns are now resolved. I have spoken personally to the Deputy Auditor General for Wales, Mr Anthony Barrett, twice this evening and he has confirmed that he has not agreed to remove the stop notice and will not be doing so while the element relating to the Chief Executive’s pension remains in the agreement.”
Cllr Jacob Williams said on his blog: “I have spoken to Mr. Barrett this evening and he confirmed that contrary to the council’s statement, no agreement had been reached but that ‘a number of options’ were available to resolve the impasse, which may require an extraordinary meeting for all councillors to re-ratify a new deal.”
“Mr. Barrett also told me, among other things, that he raised his concerns over the content of the settlement agreement with officers PRIOR to the meeting on the 16th where the golden handshake was approved. Needless to say, councillors were NOT informed about this during the secret debate, despite several questions being asked – I can say this with some certainty as I was one of the councillors who queried this very topic.”
He added: “I have also become aware of other matters this evening, relating to the settlement agreement and the original pension opt-out scheme dating back to February, that I certainly intend to pursue.”
Cllr Bob Kilmister commented on the developments, saying: “The decision of the Appointed Auditor Anthony Barrett to issue an Advisory Notice to Pembrokeshire County Council halting the agreement to terminate the employment of Chief Executive Bryn Parry – Jones because it is in his view “unlawful” looks like yet another avoidable crisis for the Council and especially the Leader Jamie Adams. During the secret debate held on Oct 16, I asked Jamie Adams if this settlement had been cleared by the Welsh Audit Office, as we could not afford any more expensive interventions. His reply as recorded by the minute taker was: The Leader’s response to your query was that the S151 Officer and WAO had discussed the matter. That he was not privy to those discussions, but understood they were accepting of the position. They were mindful that Members have all information and that is why he encouraged the opportunity for the presentation by Eversheds on the strengths and weakness of the DIP. He also stated that the Public Services Minister had had the opportunity to see the settlement.”
Cllr Kilmister added: “Eversheds made no comment at all following my question. Part of the settlement concerned pension payments which had already been deemed “unlawful” by the Welsh Audit Office. It was therefore extremely predictable that the WAO would come to the same conclusion again, which is why I queried the matter. This looks like it could become another avoidable and costly fiasco.”
He concluded: “Many members were persuaded by the argument that voting for the settlement would bring about a swift and speedy end to this issue. This now looks a forlorn hope. I repeat my call for Jamie Adams to resign and for a new broad based administration which can provide the county with the fresh start to be formed.”
Farming
Pembrokeshire dairy farmer urges the industry to seize CPD opportunities

CONTINUING professional development (CPD) is an anticipated mandatory requirement for all farm businesses in Wales which enter the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). Due to start on 1 January next year, the version of the SFS currently being considered includes the requirement to complete a minimum of six hours of learning, plus an element of Health & Safety, every year, for each business.
Well-known Pembrokeshire dairy farmer Stephen James, FRAgS of Gelliolau, Clynderwen says this is a positive step forward for Welsh farming. Mr James welcomed the Welsh Government’s response to the last SFS consultation, which resulted in a decision to make the training requirement more flexible and inclusive by including short courses, online training modules, attendance at demonstration days, discussion groups and other knowledge transfer activities eligible for CPD.
“Committing to learning will help equip farmers and all those working in the land-based industries with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and prosper in today’s rapidly changing rural landscape,” says Mr James, who was recently awarded Lantra Cymru’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Most professions insist on some level of CPD and this approach will benefit Welsh agriculture significantly, helping farmers to stay viable, resilient and competitive.
“Whatever age we are and however experienced we might me, the onus is on us as an industry to have the mindset that embraces personal development, which in turn leads to business development.”
Working together will create a professional, efficient and sustainable sector
“Welsh Government provides a wealth of support for rural businesses and thanks to organisations including Farming Connect, Lantra Cymru, our levy boards and others, the industry is working collaboratively to create a more professional, efficient and sustainable farming sector that can adapt to changing policies and market demands while achieving the highest standards of environmental stewardship.
“If we fail to take advantage of all this support and don’t learn about innovation, invest in new technologies, adopt best practice and find more efficient, cost-effective ways of sustainable land, livestock and business management, we risk losing out in today’s evolving markets.
“To safeguard the future of family farms for future generations, we need to focus on farming sustainably and comply with regulations, alongside working towards stronger business performance and achieving optimum productivity levels,” said Mr. James.
Finding solutions to challenges
Mr James, a well-known and well-respected rural figurehead, combines hands-on regenerative farming at the 600-acre family dairy farm he runs in partnership with his son Daniel, alongside numerous public-facing roles. A passionate advocate for young and new entrants, Mr James has been at the forefront of rural affairs in Wales for over 40 years. Chair of the Wales Animal Health & Welfare Framework since 2018, he is a past president of the NFU Cymru, remains closely associated with Wales YFC and has served with numerous agricultural organisations, not only within Wales but internationally. He has advised both the Welsh and UK Governments, former European Commission bodies and remains a vocal and influential figure within many of agriculture’s key stakeholder organisations, including through his longstanding membership of the Farming Connect Programme Board.
“We all recognise that our industry is under pressure. Climate and nature emergencies, market pressures, changing consumer demands and the requirement for sustainable land management which protects the environment, present us all with daily challenges.
“If we stay informed, we stay prepared, we stay adaptable and resilient,” said Mr James who emphasised that it is the responsibility of all those working in the land-based sectors to take full advantage of the wealth of support, guidance, events and training that’s available.
“The level of support available in Wales is the envy of many other farming nations and it’s essential we make full use of this.”
Stay informed, prepared and adaptable
“The transition to the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) heralds change but brings new opportunities too and will transform the way we manage our land, our livestock and our businesses for the better across all sectors, combining sustainable land management with profitability.
“As environmental custodians, it is our responsibility to professionalise and modernise the industry, to protect what we have for the next generation – upskilling must be a key component of this,” said Mr. James.
Eligible farmers registered with Farming Connect can access a range of fully-funded or subsidised training options including face-to-face accredited courses, e-learning modules and knowledge transfer options from key industry experts including Animal Health & Welfare training workshops, all eligible for CPD.
For further information on Farming Connect’s skills, training and knowledge transfer provision, visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/farmingconnect/business/skills-and-training or contact your local development officer.
Crime
John Cooper appeal file still under review, but CCRC says process ‘will take time’

THE CRIMINAL CASES REVIEW COMMISSION has confirmed that its review of John Cooper’s convictions remains ongoing, with no fixed timeline for a decision. The process, described as extensive due to the volume of evidence and the potential need for expert analysis, is expected to continue well into 2025, with an update likely in October.
Cooper, who is serving a life sentence for the murders of Richard and Helen Thomas in 1985 and Peter and Gwenda Dixon in 1989, applied to the CCRC last year for a review of his convictions. Unlike many applications, which are dismissed early, Cooper’s case has progressed further than most, with dedicated case workers assigned—suggesting it is being taken seriously.

A spokesperson for the CCRC told The Herald on Monday (Mar 10): “Reviews can often be extensive, particularly when there is a lot of evidence to analyse; if we need to consider new case law or instruct scientific experts. A more complicated review can take many months, or even years.”
Sources close to the matter indicate that Cooper’s application, which exceeds 1,000 pages, is well-researched and has met the threshold for further scrutiny. While the CCRC operates under strict resource constraints, it is understood that this case is receiving significant attention.
Despite the high-profile nature of Cooper’s original trial, particularly following the ITV drama The Pembrokeshire Murders, the CCRC review has received little media coverage so far.
Cooper has always maintained his innocence, though previous appeals have failed.
If the CCRC ultimately refers his case to the Court of Appeal, it would be a significant legal development.
When approached for comment, Dyfed-Powys Police told The Herald: “We will comply with our obligations in any judicial process, but consider it inappropriate to provide specific comments at this time.”

The CCRC plays a crucial role in determining whether there are any anomalies in Cooper’s conviction or sentencing. If any are identified, the case will be referred to the Court of Appeal.
Cooper’s case gained national attention partly due to its dramatization in the ITV series The Pembrokeshire Murders, which highlighted his appearance on the TV game show Bullseye—a crucial yet circumstantial piece of evidence in his conviction.
At his 2011 trial, Justice John Griffith Williams sentenced Cooper to life imprisonment, describing him as a “very dangerous man” whose conviction relied heavily on advances in forensic science.
As readers may recall, The Pembrokeshire Herald previously uncovered significant concerns about the handling of forensic evidence in Cooper’s case. An investigation by this newspaper revealed a series of procedural failings, including missing or incomplete exhibit logs, the mixing of different evidence samples, and a previously unreported flood in the storage area where forensic materials were kept.

Documents obtained by The Herald suggested that some forensic exhibits were not properly logged at key stages of the investigation, raising concerns about gaps in the chain of custody.
The absence of complete records makes it difficult to determine whether all items were handled and stored correctly, an issue that is particularly significant in cases where forensic evidence plays a central role in securing a conviction.
The mixing of evidence samples was another area of concern. It was found that items from different cases had been stored together, a practice that increases the risk of cross-contamination. The potential for DNA transfer between exhibits, particularly when stored in close proximity, is well-documented in forensic science. Any such contamination could have serious implications for the reliability of the evidence used to convict Cooper.
Perhaps most troubling was the discovery of a flooding incident in the forensic storage facility. The flood, which had not been disclosed in court or in any official reports at the time, raised concerns about whether water damage may have compromised key exhibits. The extent of any damage and whether steps were taken to mitigate the risk of evidence degradation remain unclear. The possibility that critical forensic materials were exposed to moisture, mould, or other contaminants could be a crucial issue for the CCRC to consider.
Despite these concerns, the forensic evidence presented by the Crown was substantial and was not challenged during Cooper’s unsuccessful 2012 appeal. However, advances in DNA testing and forensic methodologies since his trial may now allow for more sophisticated analysis of key exhibits. If the CCRC determines that new scientific techniques could yield different results, this may influence its decision on whether the case should be referred to the Court of Appeal.
Statistically, Cooper faces an uphill battle. Between April 1997 and February 2023, the CCRC received 29,845 applications but referred only 811 cases to an appeal court.
However, if his case does reach the appeal stage, historical data suggests a roughly 70 percent chance of a successful challenge.
Chloe Handling from the CCRC press office confirmed to The Pembrokeshire Herald previously: “I can confirm we have received two applications for John Cooper.”
“However, we won’t be able to comment any further while the review is underway.”
With no fixed timeline for completion, Cooper’s case remains under detailed review.
The Herald will continue to follow developments and provide updates as they emerge.
(Cover image: Athena Picture Agency)
News
Withyhedge site monitoring cost the council £170,000

PEMBROKESHIRE County Council’s monitoring of the controversial Withyhedge landfill site and unsuccessful legal challenge cost it nearly £170,000, councillors heard.
Last October, Pembrokeshire County Council went to court to seek an interim injunction against operators RML after asking it to give a legally binding undertaking to stop the odour coming from Withyhedge Landfill, near Haverfordwest.
The legal action came after months of residents complaining of foul odours and potentially harmful gasses coming from the landfill site.
A circuit judge found that the tip was causing nuisance, but believed that the council had gone about its application in the wrong way, refusing to grant an interim injunction.
The authority’s legal counsel had recommended the council appeal that decision, but this was not done due to costs involved and the situation at the tip had improved.
A report, presented by Cabinet member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett at Pembrokeshire County Council’s March 6 meeting, said: “Although our legal counsel did not believe this decision was correct and recommended an appeal, the Authority was in a difficult position when considering the costs of appealing and the costs outlay already incurred for taking the court action, as well as the provision of independent air quality monitoring and officer time dealing with this issue.
“This was due to the potential financial exposure considered against the fact that a marked improvement in the situation has been noted. We would like to stress that it is firmly believed that the legal pressure the council had placed on the operator in the period from April to October 2024 had a significant impact on the efforts and pace of the remedial works undertaken by the operator.
“Legal costs were ordered to be paid by the Authority in the sum of £169,110.87, although the actual sum was reduced by agreement to £100,000.”
The report also detailed other financial implications for the council: “Costs for air quality monitoring, legal and ancillary costs for translation of reports and some staff overtime in out of hours monitoring total £166,544 [to date]. This figure includes the additional static monitoring until 31 March 2025.”
Members heard that complaint numbers to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and PCC have been low since early January 2025 when waste tipping started again, other than a peak in mid-January from a Ricardo static monitor located at Spittal School, but were “not considered to be emanating from the landfill site,” with site inspections “indicating that the operator is following revised waste acceptance procedures which have previously been reviewed and accepted by NRW”.
Funding from Pembrokeshire County Council and Natural Resources Wales has been secured to allow the air quality monitoring via the static monitor at Spittal School to continue until March 31, but would cost £57,215 for an extra year, members heard.
Members agreed to note the report and to continue the air quality monitoring at Spittal school, reviewed on a quarterly basis, dependent on air quality results and the level of community odour complaints received.
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Bilbo101
October 29, 2014 at 6:07 pm
This is absolutely outrageous, our council is being run like the corrupt Chinese communist party, they do what the hell they like regardless what the people think.
Getting rid of Bryn Parry-Jones is going to cost us tax payers a lot regardless which route was taken but personally I would rather pay a couple of quid more on my council tax if they had gone down the disciplinary route and done what was right and what the vast majority of Pembrokeshire tax payers wanted which was to sack the slimy toad!
Jamie “The Joke” Adams and the rest of the incompetent parasites in the IPPG group need to be got rid of at the earliest opportunity, they are sailing this ship, full speed onto the rocks.
Ieuan
October 29, 2014 at 7:07 pm
Proof If proof was needed the IPPG where BJP’s lackeys and Jamie Adams the biggest butt kisser of all!
Time these parasites where exterminated!
ieuan
October 31, 2014 at 8:14 am
Bryn when you leave today do us all one last favour, take Jamie Adams and ALL who voted your big pay off with you!
Obviously none of you could organise a piss up in a brewery!
morgi
October 31, 2014 at 9:01 am
I echo the sentiments of Bilbo, but there is convincing opinion that going down the disciplinary route would in fact be less costly than this outrageous use of taxpayers money paying off (with secrecy clauses)a failed supposedly public servant!
The Great Train Robbers got up to 30 years – some of the clowns responsible for the PCC fiasco may get an invite to a garden party in our most prestigeous council house (and probably claim expenses on top of their SRA’s etc)