FOLLOWING the sentencing of former teacher Rhodri S. Jones for assaulting a child at Ysgol Caer Elen, the public has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support him. The campaign aims to raise £600 to help pay his court fine.

Organised by Andrew Phillips, the fundraiser has already gathered half of its target. Supporters describe Jones as a kind individual unfairly penalised for a minor incident and are eager to help him and his family move on from this ordeal.

Jones, 40, of Hayston View, Johnston, pleaded guilty to a charge of assault by beating. He was legally represented in court by Mr Michael Kelleher, who highlighted the challenges faced by educators in maintaining discipline. Kelleher explained that Jones is deeply remorseful and has resigned from the teaching profession following the incident.

“This is the difficulty that a teacher or a learning assistant has these days,” Kelleher said. “When a child is being cheeky, rude or refusing to do what he is being asked to do, an adult should avoid touching the pupil.

“My client is mortified at what occurred and has since resigned from the teaching profession – so we’ve lost a teacher.

“The children were heard saying ‘We’ll make sure you’ll be in trouble for this,’ and unfortunately this is what’s happened.”

After considering the mitigation, magistrates fined Jones £400 and ordered him to pay £85 in costs and a £160 surcharge. No compensation order was made against the victim, with the presiding magistrate commenting that compensation was not deemed appropriate.

The GoFundMe campaign has become a focal point for community members who believe Jones deserves support during this difficult time.

You can view and contribute to the campaign here.

AN INSURANCE expert is calling on residents across Wales to protect their homes against damage caused by nesting squirrels – a risk not typically covered by standard home insurance policies.

Freddie Hamilton-Russell of insurance broker Lycetts has issued his warning during the summer nesting season.

With animal infestation claims at an all-time high, Hamilton-Russell emphasised the importance of preventative measures, explaining that most home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by small pests and rodents, as these are issues that are deemed preventable.

“Squirrels are notorious for causing costly damage to electrical wiring, pipes, cables and insulation in attics and converted roof spaces where they make a home for their young,” said Hamilton-Russell.

“They are even capable of moving roof tiles, coming down chimneys or causing damage to guttering and fascia boards.

“Preventative measures are the best course of action. Homeowners should repair any roof damage immediately and trim branches that could provide easy access to their roofs.”

He also recommended using strong wire mesh to block obvious access points once it is established that there are no squirrels inside.

“The best times to do this are mid-morning and mid-afternoon when grey squirrels are typically out foraging,” Hamilton-Russell advised.

Furthermore, Hamilton-Russell pointed out that gardens with decking are particularly vulnerable to squirrel damage.

“It’s crucial to make your garden less attractive to squirrels by removing trees or branches with uninhabited nests, covering bulbs with wire mesh, and using squirrel-resistant bird feeders instead of loose food,” he said.

“I also urge homeowners to purchase approved squirrel repellents to prevent costly damage to their homes and gardens.”

The Ministry of Defence has announced the commencement of “Exercise Iron Storm,” a significant military training operation taking place at Castlemartin Range over the next two weeks. The exercise, which runs from 24th June until 5th July, aims to enhance the operational readiness of the UK’s armed forces.
This critical exercise will enable troops to be trained for any future operational requirements, both within the UK and overseas. The Ministry of Defence emphasizes the importance of this exercise in maintaining the nation’s defense capabilities.
Residents near Castlemartin Range are advised that live firing will occur from Monday to Friday. The firing schedule is set to start at approximately 09:00 hrs and conclude at 18:00 hrs. However, on Monday, 24th June, and Tuesday, 25th June, night firing will extend until 03:00 hrs. Although these times mark the earliest and latest possible firing hours, not all days will adhere strictly to this schedule.

In addition to live fire exercises, military vehicles will be active over the weekends, further contributing to the comprehensive training agenda. The Ministry of Defence has also planned a public briefing prior to the exercise, scheduled for 18:30 hrs on 13th June at Castlemartin Camp (SA71 5EB). A post-exercise briefing will be held on 10th July at 18:30 hrs. Pre-booking is not required for either event.

• Exercise Duration: 24th June – 5th July
• Daily Firing Times: 09:00 hrs – 18:00 hrs
• Night Firing: 24th & 25th June until 03:00 hrs
• Post-Exercise Briefing: 10th July at 18:30 hrs
  

The Ministry of Defence says it appreciates the local community’s continued support and understanding during “Exercise Iron Storm.” This exercise is a vital part of ensuring that the UK’s armed forces remain highly trained and ready to respond to any threats.