Prendergast Butchers, a well known family-run business, faces a new challenge that it says could threaten its very future.

The local butcher, renowned for providing high-quality, ethically sourced meat, is rallying the community against proposed road changes by Pembrokeshire County Council.

Founded nearly half a century ago by Chris and Rachel Wolsey, the business has thrived under the stewardship of their sons, Tom and Mark. The Wolseys have a long-standing tradition of farming across the scenic breadth of Pembrokeshire—from the Preseli Mountains to the coastal strips. Their livestock, primarily traditional British breeds, are grass-fed, ensuring the meat produced is of the highest standard. This meticulous care in rearing and ethical farming practices contribute to the exceptional taste and texture of their produce, celebrated as some of the best globally.

The butcher shop, which sources its meat directly from the family farm and other selected local suppliers, has been a cornerstone of the community for decades. However, the proposed one-way system along the B4329 threatens to reduce accessibility, discouraging customer visits and complicating logistics for deliveries. “We’re deeply concerned about the proposed one-way system in Prendergast by Pembrokeshire County Council. This plan could severely impact our business, leading to reduced foot traffic and delivery issues that may threaten our ability to stay open,” said Tom Wolsey. “We’re not alone—many local businesses that have been the heart of this community for decades are facing the same threat of closure or relocation.”

In response to the threat posed by the traffic changes, Prendergast Butchers has initiated a community campaign. “We need your voice! Please help us fight this by filling out the survey provided by Pembrokeshire County Council and sharing your concerns. Together, we can make a difference and protect our community,” urged Tom Wolsey as they rally support through social media campaigns and in-store promotions.

Despite the concerns from local businesses, the council maintains that the proposed changes are aimed at addressing issues of road safety and congestion, which have been long-standing complaints from residents. “Our goal is to improve the overall flow and safety of traffic in this area while being mindful of the economic impact on local businesses,” Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, explained. He encourages stakeholders to engage actively in the consultation process to ensure a well-rounded decision.

As Prendergast Butchers and other local businesses brace for potential impacts, the community’s support could be pivotal. The upcoming consultation sessions and the results of the survey will be crucial in determining the future layout of Prendergast’s roads—and the survival of its local businesses.

The council’s decision will not only affect traffic flow but also the livelihoods of many who depend on the area’s vibrant local commerce.

BUYERS are likely to swarm like bees to a hive for a chance to snap up an idyllic cottage at auction, Paul Fosh Auctions says.

Aptly named Beehive cottage, Ty Mawr, Llanybydder, is in a state of disrepair but after renovation could make a really sweet home..

The detached cottage, stripped out and ready for renovation, comes with a derelict, historically important Grade II listed 16th century labourer’s cottage.

Angie Davey, of South Wales based Paul Fosh Auctions. said: “This could be a dream come true for a buyer looking for a honeypot project in the heart of Pembrokeshire in stunning, wild and wonderful countryside.

“The detached cottage, which requires full refurbishment, includes a separate derelict cottage standing in a triangular plot of approximately 48 metres and all located approximately 12 miles from the Cambrian Mountains and with far reaching countryside views.

“We have not inspected the properties, but we are informed that the main detached cottage has been stripped out ready for refurbishment with one room to each floor and staircase. There is planning permission to add a 10m x 5/6m double storey extension.

“The second dwelling, a derelict Grade II listed 16th century labourer’s cottage has, we are informed by the vendor, had verbal confirmation from Cadw (Heritage Wales) for a single storey extension for a kitchen and bathroom to the rear. We advise interested parties to contact Cadw directly.

“The site has been partially levelled and all previous extensions removed. Utilities are present on the site – electric, mains water and drainage. Included in the sale are the architect drawings, structural engineer’s calculations plus several tonnes of original stone, removed by hand from the old extension.

“Once refurbished the cottages could offer excellent holiday let investment due to the tourism in the area.

The properties, listed with a guide price of £99,000, are located approximately 12 miles from the Cambrian Mountains, one of the few remote wilderness areas left in Southern Britain with some of the most scenic routes in Britain.

“The Cambrian Mountains rise up in the very heart of Wales, a place where hills, river valleys and meadows have sustained life for millennia. Surrounded by the counties of Ceredigion, Powys and Carmarthenshire, and encircled by three national parks, this is a landscape which is steeped in Welsh history and heritage.

“On a clear day, from Pumlumon Fawr (2,468ft/752m), where the River Severn and Wye rise, the Llŷn Peninsula and the highest peaks of Snowdonia can be seen to the north, the summits of the Brecon Beacons to the east, and the Preseli Mountains and the full sweep of Cardigan Bay to the west.

“The property is approximately a 30-minute drive from the coast at Aberaeron.”

Planning permission has been granted for a 10m x 5/6m double storey extension. Planning ref: PL/03524. Please contact Dyfed Local Authority for further information.

Beehive cottage is among some ninety properties which are being sold online in the Paul Fosh Auctions sale which starts at noon on Tuesday, September 1 and ends from 5.30pm on Thursday September 3.

www.paulfoshauctions.com

A SURREY-BASED dairy supplier, Freshways Group, has completed the acquisition of Haverfordwest’s Totally Welsh Dairy. This development, which was finalized on September 11, represents a significant expansion for Freshways.

Established in 1990, Totally Welsh Dairy is renowned for its commitment to quality, sourcing its milk exclusively from Welsh farmers within a 40-mile radius of its bottling plant. The company prides itself on sustainable practices, notably its use of reusable glass bottles and its dedication to local packaging solutions.

This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by Freshways, following its earlier purchase of Milk & More from Müller in January 2024. The integration of Milk & More has already enhanced Freshways’ home delivery service and its overall sustainability initiatives.

Bali Nijjar, Managing Director of Freshways, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: “We are delighted to incorporate Totally Welsh Dairy into the Freshways family. Their dedication to quality and sustainable practices complements our values perfectly. This acquisition not only broadens our product range but also supports local Welsh agriculture and enhances our delivery capabilities, catering to the increasing consumer demand for convenient, eco-friendly dairy products.”

Mark Hunter, Managing Director and owner of Totally Welsh, commented on the sale: “Joining forces with Freshways ensures a promising future for Totally Welsh. It opens new avenues for growth and opportunities for our committed team.”

In response to the rising demand for eco-friendly packaging, Totally Welsh Dairy has recently upgraded its facilities with a new glass bottling line. This enhancement will benefit the doorstep delivery customers of Milk & More.