13-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Whitland Week chairman Robert Kersey retires after 29 years
For the past 29 years, retired publican Robert Kersey has been the chairman of Whitland Week, which stages dozens of lively events over an action-packed 10 days.
It was at the quiz night which concluded the most recent Whitland Week that tribute was paid to Mr Kersey, 68, for his sterling work.
Past presidents of Whitland Week attended to add their thanks for his voluntary work and he was presented with a plaque to commemorate his achievement as everyone in the room stood to applaud.
'I was over the moon,' said Mr Kersey. 'It was a lovely surprise.'
He added: 'I usually try to stay in the background – I don't like the limelight.
'But this is the end of a long tenure. I've had a fantastic time and it's really been a big part of my life.
Whitland Week's retiring chairman, Robert Kersey is pictured (fifth left) with the current president, Meryl James and past presidents Gilbert Williams, Roger Penn, Neil Jenkins, Simon Allen, Meredydd James, Nigel Owens, Clive Edwards and Paul Kirk. (Image: Whitland Week)
"'I've really worked hard to keep Whitland Week going, talking to and meeting all our advertisers and sponsors, and I will miss it, but eventually you have to stand aside for new people with new ideas.'
When Whitland Week was established more than 60 years ago, its aim was to raise funds for the upkeep and sporting facilities of the town's Parc Dr Owen, and Mr Kersey hopes that this tradition will continue.
'Also very important is that before the carnival procession moves off from the Parc that the Carnival Queen, Fairy Queen and the Prince Charming are crowned by the Whitland Week president and the town mayor.
'It's children like these who are the future of Whitland Week, and we have to make sure we look after them."
Mr Kersey is pictured with the plaque he received in recognition of his 29 years as Whitland Week chairman. (Image: Whitland Week)
Whitland's county councillor, Sue Allen, thanked Mr Kersey for all his hard work over his nearly three decades as Whitland Week chairman, acknowledging that it is a 'huge wrench' for him to stand down.
'I wish him all the best, with heartfelt thanks,' she added.
Cllr Allen continued: 'The week - which is actually ten days - has developed into a smooth operation of events with local people, businesses and community buildings all playing a part
"Rob has passed on the mantle to Cerian Davies, supported by the Whitland Week committee, who will take it into the future with new ideas and energy towards the 70th anniversary of the Parc Dr Owen gift to the community."
