Community

Appointment of new canons to St Davids Cathedral

Published

2 weeks ago

June 19, 2024

THE DEAN of St Davids has expressed delight that the Bishop of St Davids has appointed four new Canons for the Cathedral.

The Very Revd Dr Sarah Rowland Jones said, ‘I am so pleased to welcome the Revd Gareth Reid, the Revd Julian Smith and the Revd Marcus Zipperlen as Canons and members of Dean and Chapter, together with the Revd Richard Davies as Honorary Canon. They bring a considerable breadth and depth of long experience that will contribute greatly to the life of the Cathedral and its wider family.’

The Revd Gareth Reid is no stranger to the Cathedral. After growing up and attending university in Aberystwyth, then working with the Salvation Army in Swansea prison, he pursued theological training. Following his ordination in 2010, his first role was as Assistant Curate in the Cathedral and the wider group of churches that then formed the Rectorial Benefice of Dewisland. In 2013 he moved with his wife Abby and daughters Sophie and Elizabeth to Llandysul. ‘It is wonderful to be able to accept the invitation to renew my link with the Cathedral, now as a Canon’ said Gareth.

The Revd Julian Smith was ordained in 1993, and has spent all his ministry in the Diocese of St Davids, in the Archdeaconry of Cardigan. For twenty-seven of those years, he has served churches in and around Llanrhystud. He and his wife Deborah, a domiciliary care worker, have three children, Daniel an organist, Nick a tuba player and waiter, and Edith a singer and dancer on the high seas! Responding to his appointment, Julian said ‘I felt honoured to be asked by the Bishop to be a Canon of St Davids Cathedral, and am very much looking forward to this new adventure.’

Originally from Bexhill on the south coast of England, the Revd Marcus Zipperlen moved to Wales nineteen years ago to work at the Centre for Alternative Technology, running their Biology Department and teaching sustainable water treatment and sanitation, following a degree in Environmental Science. Ordained in 2013, he now lives in Llangwm with his wife Polly, a nurse, and their two teenage boys, Sonny and Malachy. In their spare time he and Polly row Celtic longboats from Neyland and run occasional distance events. Marcus looks after four mostly rural parishes south of Haverfordwest, and is also the Sustainability Officer for the Diocese. ‘I feel blessed to be able to be able to weave both my “callings” together: ministry to people and caring for the Earth’ he said, adding ‘I hope these may be of benefit to the Cathedral, as I serve as a member of Chapter.’

Community

Council issues Tenby summer pedestrianisation scheme reminder

Published

10 hours ago

June 29, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL have issued a reminder today that the Tenby summer pedestrianisation scheme starts on Monday, July 1st to Friday, September 13th.
The Walled Town is pedestrianised and traffic movements restricted between 11am and 5.30pm each day.
The council said: “Drivers are kindly requested to plan their journeys in advance to keep the Walled Town a traffic free zone during these times.”

Community

Bespoke Individuals: Fostering community and support in Pembroke

Published

10 hours ago

June 29, 2024

Tom Sinclair

IN the heart of Pembroke, a remarkable initiative called “Bespoke Individuals” has been making waves as a vibrant social and support group. This inclusive gathering is designed for adults with spinal cord injuries and mobility challenges, offering a welcoming environment for individuals and their carers.

Meeting every Tuesday at the Tanyard, the group opens its doors to adults aged 18 and over, providing a space where members can engage in various activities ranging from games and sports to arts, crafts, and even wheelchair boxing. With a keen focus on reducing social isolation, Bespoke Individuals has become a cornerstone for many seeking connection and camaraderie.

During the summer, the group expands its repertoire with barbecues and outings, further enhancing the community spirit. The sessions run from 1:45 PM to 3:45 PM, fostering an ever-growing membership that thrives on mutual support and shared experiences.

For more information, interested individuals can contact the group via phone at 07436 877 685 or email at [email protected]. With a strong presence on social media, Bespoke Individuals continues to build friendships and reduce barriers, proving that support and socialisation are crucial elements of well-being.

For further details, visit their website at www.bespokeindividuals.co.uk.

Community

Armed Forces Day celebrated in in Pembroke Dock and Milford Haven

Published

11 hours ago

June 29, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY June 29 the community gathered outside the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre to celebrate Armed Forces Day, honouring the service and dedication of military personnel. The event featured historical military vehicles and reenactors in authentic uniforms, capturing the spirit of the past.

The Milford Haven Sea Cadets were in attendance, joining veterans and other participants in showcasing their pride. The cadets displayed impressive skills, reinforcing the event’s focus on teamwork and dedication.

The Mayor of Pembroke Dock delivered a heartfelt speech, highlighting the significance of the day and expressing the community’s gratitude for the Armed Forces’ contributions. The ceremony included a presentation of colours, adding to the sense of tradition and respect.

In addition, a smaller event took place at the Royal British Legion in Milford Haven, which was also well attended. This gathering further emphasised the community’s support for the military.

Armed Forces Day in Pembroke Dock and Milford Haven was a memorable occasion, fostering a strong sense of community and appreciation for those who serve.

Pictures by Martin Cavaney