Latest news with #HaverfordwestTownCouncil
Western Telegraph
4 days ago
- General
- Western Telegraph
VC Gallery in Haverfordwest reopens after flooding
On Friday, May 30, Barry John MBE was joined by First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan who cut the ribbon. Despite the 'unexpected flooding' forcing the VC Gallery's headquarters to close in June 2024, Mr John revealed the facility has been upgraded. First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan cut the ribbon. (Image: VC Photo Group) Founder of VC Gallery, Mr Barry John said: 'The reopening went really well. The First Minister of Wales attended alongside the veteran minister. We usually have our breakfast club on a Friday morning, and this was our first one in the new facility. 'There was extensive damage from the unexpected flooding, and we faced lots of difficulties. We had to fight to get it back open. But we had help from Haverfordwest Town Council and lots of support in Pembrokeshire with different programs coming together. The VC Gallery received a lot of support. (Image: VC Photo Group) 'We now have more classrooms and more space overall. You would think the builders would measure everything due to the cost-of-living crisis. But they went above and beyond, working until 4am. 'Tomos Palmer and his team from TGP Glass invested extra crash and hours into the project, putting things in that they bought themselves. We have new tables, ceilings and the installation of fire alarms. The facility is even better than it was before.' Founder of VC Gallery Barry John MBE and Baroness Morgan. (Image: VC Photo Group) Despite the flooding forcing the VC Gallery to temporarily close, Mr John expressed how the charity still did not stop offering help to the community. He continued: 'The First Minister has always been a massive supporter. She was over the moon to reopen the VC Gallery in Haverfordwest. 'She came to visit us during one of her breaks in her busy schedule along with members of the county council who gave their time to speak to veterans with physical and mental disabilities. They genuinely asked brilliant questions. 'After the flooding, some people assumed that things weren't continuing at the charity. But actually, everyone here has been able to provide an engagement passage for those who need it. 'We have been offering our walking groups, our Dig for Victory project and providing alcohol and drug counselling.' After the flooding, the charity never stopped providing support to the local community. (Image: VC Photo Group) Mr John also thanked Phil Kirby from County Electrical Services for installing the electrics in the building. He added: 'It was a bad situation but because of the community and our ethos and culture, we were able to recover. Barry John MBE expressed how happy he was with the new facility (Image: VC Photo Group) 'Similar to when COVID hit, we had to become dynamic and keep supporting locals. We had insurance but that can only cover so much.'
Western Telegraph
10-05-2025
- General
- Western Telegraph
VE Day commemoration held by Pembrokeshire County Council
On Thursday, May 8, councillors and staff gathered at County Hall for the VE Day 80 proclamation. This was read in Welsh by Councillor Delme Harries, member champion for Welsh language, and in English by Councillor Simon Hancock, the presiding member and member champion for armed forces. A special VE Day 80 flag was raised, with staff and members led in wartime songs by Sarah Benbow. A display included posters designed by children across the county (Image: Pembrokeshire County Council) The foyer of County Hall was decorated with Union Jack bunting, and Pembrokeshire Archives created a VE Day exhibition of local news items from May 8, 1945. Hundreds of posters relating to VE Day, made by Pembrokeshire schoolchildren, added colour to the occasion. County Hall was also lit in red and blue to mark the anniversary. Councillor Hancock said: "It was an honour to read the VE Day 80th proclamation. "It was a lovely service and great to see the VE Day flag flying at County Hall. "As the proclamation stated: 'We remember those we lost, those who were wounded or scarred and those whose lives were forever changed by war.' "We thank them for everything they did so that we enjoy our freedoms today." Councillor Jon Harvey, leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, added: "The 80th anniversary of VE Day has provided a timely opportunity to remember the sacrifices of the Second World War generation. "It was an honour to be part of the commemorations at County Hall to pay tribute and remember the day peace was secured and victory declared across Europe." Full council was adjourned at 10.45am to allow members to attend the Haverfordwest Town Council and Royal British Legion VE Day service at Salutation Square, Haverfordwest, and the national two-minute silence was observed at midday.
Pembrokeshire Herald
02-05-2025
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Milford Haven Town Council Confirms Mayor and Deputy Mayor for 2025–2026
A BRAINSTORMING session has been held at HaverHub to discuss the next stages of the Haverfordwest Castle redevelopment – a key part of Pembrokeshire County Council's regeneration plans for the county town. Castle Ward county councillor Thomas Tudor was among those in attendance, along with representatives from Haverfordwest Town Council, the Royal Institute of British Architects, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, and community members including Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner and Gitti Coats. The Heart of Pembrokeshire team at the county council hosted the meeting to provide an update on the scheme, which aims to turn the historic castle, Gaol building and Governor's House into a flagship visitor attraction. The council says the upgraded site will tell the story of Pembrokeshire past, present and future – with interactive, tech-based exhibits housed in the refurbished Gaol building. The redeveloped Governor's House will become home to a new town museum, while the inner bailey will serve as a space for theatre, live music, fayres and other events. Access to the site will be improved from Castle Square, with new way-marking throughout the town. Plans also include a new 'signature bridge' over the Western Cleddau, linking the site to Riverside. The Herald understands that 88 per cent of Haverfordwest residents surveyed in a recent consultation supported the redevelopment of the castle as a visitor attraction and community space. Many locals believe the project will help make Haverfordwest a better place to live, work and visit. Funding for the scheme is being provided by the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund, with match funding from Pembrokeshire County Council. Further funding is being sought to complete the fit-out and support associated community activities. Haverfordwest Castle is currently closed while the work takes place. The museum has been temporarily relocated to a site on the Riverside, and the car park at the castle is shut for the duration of the development. The flagship attraction is expected to open to the public in Spring 2027.
Pembrokeshire Herald
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Haverfordwest Carnival to make a comeback after six-year hiatus
THE MUCH-LOVED Haverfordwest Carnival, which has been absent from the local summer calendar for six years, is set to return in 2025. The event, which last took place in 2019 before the pandemic caused large gatherings to be cancelled, is eagerly anticipated by locals who are hopeful for a vibrant revival. The carnival, known for its bright floats, marching bands, and community spirit, will once again fill the streets of the county town next year. It is being organized by Pure West Radio in partnership with Haverfordwest Town Council, and they are now reaching out to the public for input on key details, including the theme, preferred date, and ways to support the event. Pure West Radio shared the exciting news on social media, announcing, 'After six years, Haverfordwest Carnival is back for 2025! We're partnering with Haverfordwest Town Council to bring back this iconic event, and we want to hear from you. What theme would you like to see? What day works best for you? And how would you like to get involved? Share your thoughts with us here.' The announcement has been met with excitement from the community. Emma Flan reminisced, 'The carnival was always the highlight of the summer when I was growing up. The town would be buzzing, with everyone out enjoying the day and night. So happy to see it returning, and I hope everyone gets involved.' Others, like Michelle Dukes, agreed, saying, 'It's great news – the town really needs an event like this,' while Lucy Lulu Eagles fondly recalled, 'I loved the carnival! I'd always look forward to the band playing and seeing the floats with the kids.' One memorable edition of the carnival took place in 2006, when it was held at the Picton Playing Fields, featuring a Queen tribute act and a junior talent show. The 2018 carnival marked a major revival of the event after a few years' absence, with a maritime theme celebrating the 'Year of the Sea.' Despite the wet weather, the procession, which started from County Hall, drew a big crowd and made its way through the town to Bridge Meadow. The 2019 carnival saw the event moved to a Sunday as a grand finale to Haverfordwest Festival Week, and the sunny weather ensured a wonderful day out for all involved. While the weather remains unpredictable for 2025, local input is highly encouraged to help make the event one to remember. If you have ideas or feedback, you can share them via the survey linked above.
Western Telegraph
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Haverfordwest Carnival set to return after six-year absence
Haverfordwest Carnival last took to the streets of the county town in 2019, the year before the coronavirus pandemic which then saw all big events put on hold. But hopes are high that 2025 will once again welcome the colourful Haverfordwest Carnival, with a return to its glory days of floats, bands and a host of walking entries. The Pirates of Prendergast starred in the 2018 carnival. (Image: Western Telegraph) Pure West Radio and Haverfordwest Town Council have teamed up to stage the event this summer – on a date to be decided - and are now seeking the views of the public on the carnival theme, preferred day and how people would like to support. More Stories Pure West Radio announced the exciting plans on Facebook, where they said: ' It's been 6 years Carnival is BACK for 2025! "We are teaming up with Haverfordwest Town Council to bring back the legendary Haverfordwest carnival, and we would love to hear your views. "From day, to themes, to fancy dress, and vendors, let us know your thoughts and ideas here, A floral float from days gone by. (Image: Susan Van De Capelle)The news gained a delighted response. "Growing up, the carnival was the highlight of the summer, the town would be packed, all of the pubs would be full and it was a good day/night out," said Emma Flan. "So happy to see it coming back and I really hope everyone gets involved." And Michelle Dukes added: "Brilliant news, the town definitely needs something like this." While Lucy Lulu Eagles recalled: "I love the carnival! Used to look forward to it every year with the kids, to hear the lovely sound of the band then knowing the floats would follow." A fire engine leads the 2019 carnival parade through Haverfordwest. (Image: Haverfordwest Town Council) One Haverfordwest Carnival to remember was the 2006 event, with post-procession festivities taking place on the carnival's original home of the Picton Playing Fields Organised by Haverfordwest Round Table, the carnival entertainment featured a Queen tribute act and a junior Stars in Your Eyes competition. The 2018 carnival saw a big revival after an absence of several years and took a maritime theme in line with the Visit Wales 'Year of the Sea' campaign. Floats also made a return to the procession and despite the wet weather, crowds of people turned out to watch the carnival parade from County Hall, up through High Street, and back down Barn Street before it made its way to the Bridge Meadow. Flower power in the sunshine at the 2019 event. (Image: Haverfordwest Town Council) There was a change of day for the 2019 carnival, as it was staged on a Sunday as a grand finale to Haverfordwest Festival Week in July. By contrast to the previous year's weather, the event enjoyed a day of sunshine. And although the public can't choose the weather for the 2025 Haverfordwest Carnival, people's thoughts and ideas for the occasion are being very much welcomed, via the survey form, linked above.
