News

Pembrokeshire Paralympian Jodie jokes about her waters breaking ‘on podium’

Published

3 months ago

August 29, 2024

Jodie Grinham, a Paralympic archer from Pembrokeshire, is preparing to compete for Team GB at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, despite being seven months pregnant. Originally from Haverfordwest but now living in Crawley, Grinham will take to the field on Sunday, 1 September, at Esplanade des Invalides for the individual archery event.

Born with brachydactyly, which left her with a shortened left arm and only a half-thumb, Grinham faced early challenges. Doctors doubted she could ever participate in archery, but Grinham and her father refused to give up. After trying various methods, they found a specially designed bow grip that fit her hand, enabling her to pursue the sport she loves.

This marks Grinham’s second Paralympic appearance. She previously won a silver medal with John Stubbs in the Mixed Team Compound Open at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games.

Grinham’s determination to compete in Paris comes after overcoming significant challenges, including three miscarriages. Her son, Christian, was born prematurely at 28 weeks and spent his first 10 days in an incubator with severe jaundice. Reflecting on that time, Grinham said, ““I didn’t really get to hold him for the first 10 days, he was under a little light in this little box, which was heartbreaking.”

Although doctors have raised concerns that the added weight of the baby could cause complications or even premature labor, Grinham is steadfast in her decision to compete. “We decided we weren’t going to let a Games stop us from extending our family,” she told The Athletic. “We didn’t know if we would ever conceive again. Getting pregnant is not as easy as people think.”

Despite the risks, Grinham is determined to balance her career and family life. “My team have joked a few times that my waters could just break on the podium. That would be quite something,” she said. “I was aware I might not even get to these Games if I had the same problems as my last pregnancy but I’ve decided I want a family and a career, I want to be able to do both.”

I’m sure, like us at the Pembrokeshire Herald, the people of Pembrokeshire will be watching with immense pride as we cheer Jodie on this Sunday.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 hour ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 hour ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

2 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!