News
Saundersfoot cricket triumphs over Neyland in stunning victory

- Saundersfoot (196 for 9) beat Neyland (96 all out) by 100 runs
IN a match filled with excitement and surprises, Saundersfoot delivered an assured and committed performance to defeat Neyland, the Bowl holders, by a resounding 100 runs. This unexpected outcome, taking place at Saundersfoot Cricket Ground, left even the most ardent Neyland supporters acknowledging the well-deserved victory of the Seasiders.
The match commenced with a close call for Tom Mansbridge, who narrowly escaped being caught from Patrick Hannon’s first delivery, which instead rolled down the slope for a four. Mansbridge capitalised on his luck, scoring an additional 18 runs off the remaining five balls.
Neyland’s chase began disastrously when their key batsman, Paul Murray, was caught at mid-on by Gareth Edwards off Sam Franklin’s first delivery. After just four overs, Neyland found themselves struggling at 4 for 2, with opener Alan Webster dismissed for a duck after facing only five balls.
Seasiders Start Strong
From the outset, Danny Caine and Tom Mansbridge aggressively targeted Patrick and Sean Hannon, scoring boundaries from loose deliveries. Their partnership reached 44 in the fifth over before Caine was bowled by the Neyland captain for 13, having hit one six.
Caine’s departure proved fortuitous for Saundersfoot as Sam Franklin joined Mansbridge at the crease. The duo added an impressive 97 runs before Mansbridge was caught at the mid-wicket boundary by Dai Davies off Jack John for a rapid 75, which included 10 fours and three sixes.
The fall of wickets continued with John Mansbridge bowled for a duck by Jack John, followed by Danny Brace’s dismissal for 1, caught at mid-wicket by George Evans off Brad McDermott-Jenkins. The same bowler then claimed the wickets of Yannic Parker, Gareth Edwards, Scott Helmich, Iori Richards, and Simon Stanford, ending with notable figures of 6 for 41.
Despite the flurry of wickets, Franklin maintained his aggressive batting, finishing unbeaten on 76, which included 12 fours and a six, guiding Saundersfoot to a formidable total of 196 runs in 22 overs.
Neyland Struggles to Recover
Neyland, missing several key players, started their innings poorly, and with their early collapse to 4 for 2, their confidence waned. Brad McDermott-Jenkins and Ross Hardy attempted a recovery, scoring 18 and 22 respectively, both hitting two fours and a six. Jack John contributed 24 runs, but their efforts were insufficient against Saundersfoot’s spirited fielding and bowling.
Man of the Match Sam Franklin’s exceptional performance with the ball, taking 4 for 34, complemented his outstanding batting, and he played a crucial role in dismantling Neyland’s batting line-up.
Neyland captain Sean Hannon graciously acknowledged their defeat, recognising Saundersfoot’s dominance. If Saundersfoot maintains this high level of performance, they are poised to challenge any team in the county and might even be considered co-favourites for the Bowl.
This commanding victory not only knocked out the reigning champions but also signalled Saundersfoot’s potential to be a formidable force in the competition.
Community
Gentle British Shorthair seeks loving forever home

A BEAUTIFUL and affectionate four-year-old British Shorthair cat is looking for a calm and loving home through Greenacres Rescue in Pembrokeshire.
Maple, described by staff as having a “luxurious plush coat” and a “gentle, affectionate nature,” came into the charity’s care through no fault of her own. With her classic round face, soulful eyes, and teddy bear-like fur, she is proving popular with volunteers at the centre.
Greenacres said Maple would make an ideal companion for someone seeking a calm and elegant feline friend. She enjoys gentle fuss and quiet company and has previously lived harmoniously with other cats.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Maple would thrive in a peaceful environment where she can settle in at her own pace and be treated with the patience and love she deserves. She may be happy to share her home with another gentle-natured feline.”
The rescue centre is based in Pembrokeshire, but rehomes animals across the UK. However, potential adopters are reminded that visits to the centre are essential, and priority may be given to homes closer to the charity’s location.
Anyone interested in adopting Maple is asked to complete an online application form, clearly stating her name: Cat Adoption Form – Greenacres Rescue
Applications are processed Monday to Thursday and are subject to home and vet checks. For more information on the adoption process, visit: Adoption Procedure – Greenacres Rescue
Greenacres thanked all potential adopters for supporting their mission to find loving homes for animals in need.
Could you be the one to give Maple the home she deserves?
Crime
Carmarthenshire man jailed for role in commercial cannabis factory

A MAN who allowed members of an organised crime group to set up a large-scale cannabis factory at his rural property has been jailed.
Martin Evans, 37, appeared at Swansea Crown Court where he claimed to be unaware of the extent of the illegal operation. However, the court heard that by renting out part of his home near Kidwelly, Evans had become a “facilitator” for the criminal enterprise.

During a warrant executed in February under Operation Scotney, police discovered nearly 200 cannabis plants—worth up to £264,100—being cultivated at the property.
Further investigation of Evans’s mobile phone revealed incriminating messages referencing police drones and discussions about increasing heat and humidity to accelerate plant growth, confirming his knowledge and involvement.
Evans was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Another man, Fatjon Xafa, who was actively cultivating the plants, received a 29-week prison sentence.
Detective Chief Inspector Rich Lewis said: “I am in no doubt that Evans knew exactly what was going on at his home. He clearly hoped the rurality of the location would allow the operation to go undetected, and he would have allowed it to continue had we not intervened.”
Police said the bust was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised drug networks operating in west Wales.
Community
Marquess of Milford Haven’s daughter welcomes second child

Joy for royal-linked family as baby boy is born
A NEW member of a family with strong historic ties to West Wales has been welcomed into the world, as Lady Tatiana Mountbatten, the daughter of the Marquess of Milford Haven, announced the birth of her son.

The 34-year-old, who is a second cousin to King Charles III, shared the joyful news with her followers on Instagram on Sunday (Apr 13), posting tender photographs with her newborn, husband Alexander ‘Alick’ Dru, and daughter Elodie, who was born in September 2023.
Lady Tatiana is the daughter of George Mountbatten, 4th Marquess of Milford Haven.
The title “Marquess of Milford Haven” was created in 1917 for Prince Louis of Battenberg, who had previously served as First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy.
Amidst the anti-German sentiment during World War I, he relinquished his German titles and adopted the anglicised surname “Mountbatten.”
The Milford Haven waterway, with its rich maritime history and has been home to a significant naval base and commercial fishing port. The town’s deep natural harbour has been used for naval purposes since the late 18th century, and it played a crucial role during both World Wars.
The naming of the marquessate after Milford Haven reflects the town’s importance in British naval history.
In her post, Tatiana revealed her son’s name – Auberon, affectionately known as ‘Albie’. “March might just have been the best month of my life,” she wrote, reflecting on a peaceful period spent with her young family in the Hampshire countryside, away from the bustle of London.
She described her daughter’s excitement at becoming a big sister and shared a touching image of baby Auberon clutching her finger, alongside family scenes of daisy-picking and garden play.
Tatiana said: “We’ve played, rested, nourished, slept a little, loved a lot and enjoyed every minute of the glorious spring weather… Now it’s time to head back to London and discover what our new normal looks like.”
Local interest in the royal-connected family remains strong, particularly due to the Mountbattens’ association with Milford Haven and their lineage linked to Queen Victoria and Prince Louis of Battenberg.
Followers flooded her post with messages of congratulations. One wrote: “Oh my goodness, my heart is absolutely exploding for you!” Another joked: “When are you buying the first pony?!”
The happy news comes not long after another royal birth, with Princess Beatrice welcoming a baby girl, Athena Elizabeth Rose, in January. Despite being born prematurely, Athena is said to be healthy and thriving.
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