News

Peter Morgan was Pembrokeshire’s rugby hero and dedicated councillor

Published

2 years ago

July 28, 2024

PEMBROKESHIRE is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished sons, Peter Morgan, who passed away at 65 after a courageous battle with a brain tumour. Morgan, celebrated both for his prowess on the rugby field and his steadfast service to the local community, leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

Peter John Morgan was born on January 1, 1959, at The County Hospital in Haverfordwest. From his early years, he exhibited a natural athleticism that set him apart. His talent shone brightly at the local County Secondary School, where he excelled under the guidance of sports master Peter Herbert. Herbert, himself a future fitness coach for Llanelli and Wales, recognised Morgan’s potential early on.

Morgan’s rugby career began with a bang, breaking into the Wales squad as a teenager. His versatility on the field was unmatched, playing in every three-quarter position for both Wales and the British Lions. His first Welsh youth cap came in 1977 at St Helen’s, Swansea, against a formidable France side featuring Serge Blanco. Despite a broken ankle curtailing his progress the following season, Morgan’s resilience saw him bounce back stronger.

Peter Morgan’s rise in rugby was meteoric. He was part of the 1980 British Lions tour to South Africa, an experience that marked him as a player of significant promise. The tour was marred by controversy due to the apartheid regime, but Morgan’s performances were a testament to his skill and dedication. Carwyn James, the legendary Lions coach, praised Morgan’s talent, lamenting that he was underutilised during the tour.

Morgan’s club career with Llanelli was equally illustrious. He famously captained the team to victory over Australia in 1984, a remarkable feat given the absence of several internationals preparing for a Wales test match. His partnership with Ray Gravell was lauded as world-class, and the victory over the Grand Slam-winning Wallabies remains a highlight in Llanelli’s storied history.

Despite his rugby success, Morgan was not one to rest on his laurels. He transitioned smoothly into local politics, becoming The Havens’ independent councillor for 16 years. His commitment to his constituents was unwavering. Known for his compassionate and pragmatic approach, Morgan served as both chair and vice-chair of Pembrokeshire County Council and was a key member of various committees, including planning and corporate governance.

Peter Morgan’s dedication to Pembrokeshire extended beyond politics. He was instrumental in modernising the sea defences at Little Haven, a project that safeguarded the village against increasingly severe storms. His involvement in the local community was comprehensive, from running the family shop and post office in Little Haven to serving as an auxiliary coastguard and lifeboat crew member.

In his personal life, Morgan was a devoted family man. He met his wife, Helen, through his rugby career, and they built a life together in Little Haven, raising two daughters, Nia and Lowri. Despite his health challenges, including a stroke in 2012 and his battle with cancer, Morgan remained a pillar of strength for his family. His recent attendance at Lowri’s wedding, despite his illness, was a poignant testament to his enduring spirit.

***Peter Morgan, with Geoff Williams, the then Head of Sport at BBC Wales***

Morgan’s contributions to rugby were recognised with the Sport Pembrokeshire Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. His impact on the sport was profound, not just for his on-field achievements but for the inspiration he provided to countless young athletes in Pembrokeshire and beyond.

Peter Morgan’s life was one of remarkable achievements, from his early days on the rugby fields of Pembrokeshire to his later years as a dedicated public servant. His passing is a significant loss to the community he served so diligently, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who follow in his footsteps.

Peter Morgan is survived by his wife Helen, daughters Nia and Lowri, and grandchildren Seren and Dewi. The community extends its deepest condolences to his family, honouring the memory of a true Pembrokeshire hero.

News

Reform reveals west Wales candidates for Senedd battle

Published

11 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Monkton councillor tops Pembrokeshire list as party confirms Carmarthenshire names and includes Haverfordwest councillor in unwinnable Swansea spot

REFORM UK has unveiled its full list of candidates for the 2026 Senedd election, setting out its challenge across west Wales including Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

The party has named Susan Claire Archibald, a sitting councillor for Monkton on Pembroke Town Council, as its lead candidate for the Ceredigion Preseli, Mid and South Pembrokeshire regional list.

Speaking to The Herald, Archibald said: “I am honoured to represent Reform UK and Wales.” She added that a fuller statement outlining her priorities would be released in due course.

The remaining candidates on the Pembrokeshire regional list are Paul Marr, a former prison officer, Michael Allen, Elisa Randall, Peter John and Bernard Holton.

Carmarthenshire candidates named

Reform has also confirmed its list for the Caerfyrddin and Llanelli region, with Gareth Beer placed first, followed by Carmelo Colasanto, Sarah Edwards, Christopher Brooke, Alan Cole and Michelle Beer.

The announcement forms part of a nationwide rollout of candidates as the party seeks to establish itself as a credible electoral force ahead of the 2026 vote.

Thorley listed in Swansea region

Among the names included elsewhere is Scott Thorley, a Haverfordwest-based councillor and the first Reform representative elected to Pembrokeshire County Council.

Thorley appears on the party’s list for the Gower and Swansea West region, where he is placed sixth.

Under the Senedd’s proportional representation system, candidates placed lower on regional lists are significantly less likely to be elected, meaning his position is widely viewed as a paper candidacy to complete the slate.

Election framing

Reform Wales leader Dan Thomas said the party was offering voters a stark political choice.

He said: “After a hundred years of failure, Labour are finished in Wales. The choice at this election is what comes next — common sense and a fresh start with Reform, or independence by stealth with Plaid Cymru.”

The Herald understands that further announcements, including candidate profiles and policy details, are expected in the coming weeks as the campaign begins to take shape.

Crime

Man bailed after serious assault in Fishguard town centre

Published

13 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in Fishguard that has left a man in hospital.

The incident happened on Main Street at around 11:00pm on Saturday (Mar 21), when the victim was reportedly punched, sustaining head injuries. He remains in hospital receiving treatment.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) and has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Dyfed-Powys Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have information that could assist the investigation, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting reference: 26*227686.

Information can be provided online via the Dyfed-Powys Police website, by emailing [email protected], by calling 101, or by sending a direct message on social media.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

News

Childcare funding boost announced in Wales

Published

13 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hourly rate to rise as costs increase

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has confirmed an increase in the hourly rate paid to childcare providers under its Childcare Offer, following a review of funding levels.

The Minister for Children and Social Care, DAWN BOWDEN MS, announced that the rate will rise to £6.67 per hour from April 6, 2026. The increase of 4.18% comes after feedback from childcare providers and sector data gathered during 2025.

The Welsh Government said the change is designed to help providers cope with rising costs, including increases to the National Living Wage.

The Herald understands the review drew on responses from the Childcare Offer’s Annual Survey, as well as information from Care Inspectorate Wales’ Self-Assessment of Service Statement (SASS).

The move follows a policy shift announced last year to review the rate annually, rather than every three years, in a bid to make funding more responsive to pressures facing the sector.

As part of the update, the maximum charge for meals will also increase by 4.18%, which ministers say is intended to balance affordability for both providers and parents.

Dawn Boden said the Welsh Government remains committed to supporting the long-term sustainability of childcare services, adding that officials will continue working with the sector to explore further improvements.