The Pembroke Master says he demonstrates a ‘strong commitment to academic and collegiate Cambridge’ the Master of Pembroke and former Cabinet Minister has announced that he will be running for the position of University Chancellor The House of Lords member was the Secretary of State for Culture and served as the Chairman of the Environment Agency from 2008-2014 Smith was the first MP in the UK to voluntarily come out as gay and in 1997 became the first openly gay Cabinet Minister anywhere in the world Smith says: “I have always set great store by openness and transparency in public life; it is important always to stand up for what you believe in.” The Pembroke Master has also declared that he demonstrates a “strong commitment to academic and collegiate Cambridge,” having completed an undergraduate degree in English and PhD at Pembroke As “someone who has a record of successfully leading a College and who understands the fundamental importance of the relationship between the University and the College,” Smith believes he has “the right background to become Chancellor” Smith told Varsity that one of his principal focuses as Chancellor would be academic freedom which he described as being “thrown into sharp relief by what is happening across the Atlantic” He added that universities are “above all places that are about seeking truth and evidence and fact,” which is becoming increasingly important in a “world of misinformation” He also believes that the Chancellor has the potential to “act as a voice reminding the government of how important universities are,” both “in terms of what they represent for the bettering of society” and “how important they are economically” Smith also acknowledged the importance of environmental issues for students at the University while the University “already has grand ambitions” regarding net zero targets and measures in response to climate change “We need to make sure that delivery follows rhetoric.” Smith oversaw Pembroke’s commitment to fully divest from fossil fuels by the end of 2023 He has also overseen the construction of the £82 million Mill Lane development The Pembroke master has also placed emphasis on the importance of preserving freedom of speech acknowledging that this “sometimes be uncomfortable” and “means being prepared to listen to views with which you don’t agree He also described himself as being “in favour of contesting unpalatable views” “A combination of a record of successful public service” and “an intrinsic commitment to Cambridge” are factors which Smith believes makes him a suitable candidate for Chancellor Smith’s candidacy has been endorsed by Mayor of Greater Manchester and Fitzwilliam alumnus Burnham says of Smith: “His lifelong approach of promoting academic and cultural excellence whilst opening up the widest possible access to it marks him out as the right leader for our University in its next phase” a member of the House of Lords and Britain’s second female rabbi describes Smith as having been “devoted to Cambridge since his undergraduate days,” adding: “He’s a passionate academic a man with a cross party set of friendships and allies There are six other candidates running for Chancellor These are business owner and activist Gina Miller Queens’ College president Mohamed El-Erian Cambridge Astrophysics professor Wyn Evans and broadcaster and comedian Sandi Toksvig Sandi Toksvig enters Cambridge Chancellor race The Chancellor serves as the formal and ceremonial head of the University and has little executive power over the University they do have the authority to call and chair Congregations of the Regent House They are also responsible for deciding certain contested and unresolved matters on appeal former chairman of Sainsbury’s supermarkets who was elected by the Senate in October 2011 Varsity is the independent newspaper for the University of Cambridge In order to maintain our editorial independence our print newspaper and news website receives no funding from the University of Cambridge or its constituent Colleges We are therefore almost entirely reliant on advertising for funding and we expect to have a tough few months and years ahead we are going to look at inventive ways to look at serving our readership with digital content and of course in print too Varsity is the independent student newspaper for the University of Cambridge All content © 1996-2025 Varsity Publications Ltd PEMBROKE U13s travelled with their coaching team and huge crowd of supporters to play in the annual District H Junior Finals Day, which was hosted this year at Haverfordwest RFC. Their game against Neyland turned out to be a really tense, exciting and entertaining game, which may present said was the game of the day. The larger, heavier Neyland pack proved a real handful for the lighter, mobile Pembroke squad, who had to dig deep to resist and withstand many thrusts by the powerful Neyland pack, whose No 8 Iestyn Roberts stood out with his strong runs. Pembroke set their stall out from early on, moving the ball wide, on the many occasions that their hard-working forwards provided quick possession. Both sides strived hard at the breakdown and were evenly matched in this phase of play; both sets of forwards were evident in the loose with surging runs from players on both sides, but the Pembroke backs had the edge and they regularly caused the Neyland defence lots of problems, because they stuck to their plan to move Neyland’s big forwards around the whole field. The score seesawed throughout a marvellously, entertaining game, which midway through the second half saw the score at a stalemate. With only five minutes to go Neyland’s No 8 scored what seemed to be the match winning try. However, Pembroke’s players demonstrated great resilience, determination, match awareness, excellent skills and opportunism, scoring two late tries, the last of which involved Pembroke No 8 White pouncing on a Neyland defensive error to score and give his side a resounding win by 34-20 to the delight of players, coaches and their vociferous support. Everyone then returned to the Pembroke clubhouse for their celebrations, where a committeeman congratulated the squad and told them how extremely proud the club was of them all on winning the cup two seasons in a row. U18 former youth player Bowyn Clark completed his season playing for Carmarthen Quins in their Cup Final against a very strong Llandeilo outfit last weekend. Bowyn played a pivotal role in his team’s excellent performance, however the bigger forwards of the Llandeilo squad carried the day, despite a very spirited performance from the very capable Quins outfit. A BBQ fundraiser is to be held at Cresselly Arms on Wednesday May 14 starting at 5pm, there will be food, a raffle and music. Tickets for the annual club dinner are on sale in the clubhouse; the dinner will be at the Town Hall on May 23. The very popular Friday night walking/running club continues for people of all ages and abilities, sessions will go on throughout April, May and June meeting around 6.15pm, then during July, August and September social rugby sessions take over, with U16s starting at 5.30pm for an hour, followed by 16yrs+ starting at 6.30pm, people of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate. The club has hoisted a VE 80th Anniversary flag in honour of all those, who gave so much to give us all the freedoms we enjoy today. The increasingly popular weekly Thursday Coffee morning will this week have a similar theme, when all present who endured those times will be encouraged to share stories and reminiscences; starts at 10am. Comments Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Further Links Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025 A PEMBROKE Dock man has been handed a jail sentence for fraud and theft that was carried out over two years ago, being ordered to pay out substantial compensation. Alfie Ashley, of Market Street, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, April 29 when three historical offences cost him over £3,000 and will result in him having to spend one year in prison. The court heard that between July 31 and October 25, 2022 Ashley had dishonestly committed fraud by false representation, exposing another person to loss or a risk of loss. This is an offence contrary to sections 1 and 2 of the Fraud Act 2006, The 26-year-old also pleaded guilty to two charges of theft from the person of another that dated back to 2023. At Laws Street on September 2 and again on September 12, he had stolen a bank card and £9.50 and £12 respectively. In each of the three incidents, the victim was the same person, described as ‘vulnerable’ in the hearing. The victim personal statement was read by the prosecutor, Linda Baker, on behalf of Dyfed-Powys Police. Tom Lloyd provided counsel for the defence. Taking the guilty pleas into account, the defendant was sentenced to four weeks’ imprisonment (concurrent) for each theft. The custodial sentence was imposed on account of a vulnerable victim and aggravated with other offences. For the fraud, Ashley was sentenced to 52 weeks in prison. Again, the offence was judged to be so serious that only a custodial sentence could be justified, as the victim was vulnerable and it had serious detrimental impact, with multiple transactions. The total compensation set was £3,502, and £85 of costs to Crown Prosecution Service were added. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Narberth Group of Churches welcome all to a plethora of services and events including a Taizé Healing Service at Robeston Wathen and a coffee morning at Ludchurch 10am to 12 noon – Community Coffee at Longstone Community Hall Contact Jacky on 07740 734542 for the venue and Templeton and Ludchurch every Wednesday Contact Father Robert Moore at The Rectory, Adams Drive, Narberth SA67 7AE. Tel 01834 861192. Email [email protected] . Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us PETAWAWA — The Town of Petawawa has unveiled a new marketing logo as part of a broader initiative to support economic development and promote the community’s identity Developed in collaboration with creative agency Syntax Strategic the updated visual branding aims to reflect Petawawa’s continued growth We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe new logo will be integrated across multiple platforms, including a new upgraded municipal website, social media channels, wayfinding signage, stationery, and various tourism and marketing materials. “Our new brand is a symbol of the vibrant, forward-thinking community we’re building together,” said Petawawa Mayor Gary Serviss. “It embodies the essential elements of our natural environment that resonates with residents and honours our heritage.” Town officials say the refreshed branding is intended to attract visitors, encourage investment, and enhance the town’s profile within the region. “Petawawa is a proud and evolving town with deep roots and a bold future,” said Jennifer Stewart, president and CEO of Syntax Strategic. “We’re honoured to help tell that story–working alongside the people of Petawawa to create a brand that is both authentic and aspirational.” While the new logo will serve marketing and promotional purposes, the municipality’s traditional crest will remain in use for official and ceremonial functions, including legal documentation and Council communications. The rebranding effort highlights Petawawa’s vision of presenting itself as a dynamic, inclusive, and welcoming place to live, work, and visit. transmission or republication strictly prohibited This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy The 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day is ‘a shared moment of celebration’ spanning four days in Pembroke. On Thursday, May 8, members of the public are invited to pop into the Town Hall when the Country Market is on, between 9.30am and 12.30pm, for a free slice of cake (orange and ginger) and tea or coffee. From midday, Mr Graham Phillips will play the pipes outside the Town Hall. At 9pm on Thursday, Mayor of Pembroke Ann Mortenson will give a welcome at Pembroke Castle, followed by the lighting of the beacon at 9.30pm and a solo of ‘I Vow to Thee my Country’ by Miss Rachel Jones. On Friday, May 9, 1pm, Pembroke Young at Heart has organised a Fish and Chip Lunch and Sing Along. Tickets are available at the Town Hall. Finally, Sunday, May 11 will see the Mayor’s Parade, along Main Street, with the ATC Band of Haverfordwest and special guests The Pipes and Drums of the Royal Tank Regiment. The parade will be stepping off at 10.30am at St Michael’s Square and marching down to the Town Hall. A service at St Mary’s Church will follow the parade. All are welcome. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us The May bank holidays are upon us and train stations are buzzing with travellers and day-trippers using public transport can be a challenging and stressful experience RNID Associate Director of Inclusion Teri Devine says: Passengers suddenly start leaving and you’re not sure why Or you’re on a train that stops unexpectedly between stations and you seem to be the only person in the carriage unaware of what’s going on What should be a relaxing journey can quickly become an anxious and isolating experience Deaf people often rely on fellow travellers for help.” RNID - the national charity supporting the 18 million people who are deaf have hearing loss or tinnitus - has highlighted concerning research showing that the public are often unwilling to assist deaf people when navigating public transport Whilst many people do want to help – they’re often held-back by uncertainty around how to communicate “The good news is that RNID’s ‘It does matter’ campaign offers free tips and videos with basic BSL phrases to help people become more deaf-aware and confident when offering support” adds Teri “This Deaf Awareness Week is the perfect time to learn how you can make a difference. Visit www.rnid.org.uk/it-does-matter .” Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Pembroke town councillors are delighted to welcome the Pipes and Drums of the Royal Tank Regiment, who will be joining the town’s VE Day celebrations on Sunday, May 11. They will lead a parade down the Main Street, along with the RAFAC Band of Haverfordwest, to celebrate the 80th VE Day anniversary. “Come out and show your support,” urges the proud town council. The parade will be stepping off at 10.30am at St Michaels Square and marching down to the Town Hall. A service at St Marys Church will follow the parade. All are welcome. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us A PEMBROKE man has been disqualified from driving, pending a sentence hearing in May, after pleading guilty to drug driving. On November 7, 2024, Aaron Simpson, of Tenby Court, Monkton, drove a Nissan Sunny on the A477 Cleddau Bridge at Pembroke Dock when the proportion of a controlled drug, Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, in his blood was 5.2µg/l, exceeding the specified limit. In addition, at 796µg/l, the proportion of Benzoylecgonine in his blood also exceeded the specified limit. He appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to the two charges. The case was adjourned for a pre-sentence report to be prepared, and Simpson was remanded on unconditional bail until the next hearing, scheduled for May 13. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Join ASD Family Help's workshop in Pembroke Dock to support children with autism or ALN focusing on effective behavioural management strategies ASD Family Help are running an Autism / ALN Behaviour Workshop in Pembroke Dock on May 6 Taking place at Pennar Village Community Hall the workshop is for parents or carers with children who are autistic or have Additional Learning Needs and are having difficulty managing certain behaviours at home Learn how best to support young people with a therapeutic approach at this workshop which will be held between 9.45am and 12 noon on Tuesday Parents and carers will also have an opportunity to share their concerns To book, visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/autism-and-aln-behaviour-workshop-tickets-1260958363409 . ASD Family Help’s local work, ‘Create Strong Autism Communities in Pembrokeshire’, is part-funded by National Lotter Community Fund Wales. The project supports autistic people and their families/carers to take part in activities and events within their local communities, enabling people to come together to provide peer support and develop friendships. It also enables autistic children, young people, and adults to learn new skills in safe autism friendly environments and will create positive experiences, within their communities. ASD Family Help events are in Pembroke Dock, Tenby, Milford Haven, Haverfordwest and Fishguard, thanks to National Lottery players by providing a variety of autism related training courses, and Peer Support, to families/carers who have a neurodivergent young person. Information about autism, rights, training, and signposting to other opportunities in the local community is provided to empower parents/carers to support young people into adult life. To stay up to date with all of their activities, visit their facebook page: ASDFamilyPembs . Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Join West Wales Rivers Trust for guided walks along Pembrokeshire's rivers this spring and summer Learn about river ecology while enjoying a relaxed pace and scenic views West Wales Rivers Trust will be hosting walks around a series of rivers starting with an 8km Gwaun walk on Saturday All are welcome to join guests from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Maynard and the Ramblers on these guided walks further rambles have been arranged for Merlin’s Brook near Haverfordwest (11km 10am-12 noon) and Knightston Brook near Tenby (5km The river rambles give walkers the opportunity to learn ways to monitor the river’s ecology and health Email [email protected] to book your spot. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Two extra services to treat common conditions without a prescription from the pharmacy will be available from most community pharmacies across Wales. The Welsh Government is investing an extra £6m in community pharmacies to make the sore throat test and treat and the urinary tract infection (UTI) services available in 99% of pharmacies ahead of the winter. The roll-out of the services will help to give people access to free NHS care without a GP appointment and ensure the NHS maximises the skills and expertise of pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians. The award-winning sore throat test and treat service and the new UTI service, which was introduced last summer, will be available nationally, from June 4 and October 1 respectively. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Groundbreaking technology by Hywel Dda University Health Board offers a new solution for pregnant women with Type 1 Diabetes to manage glucose levels effectively, reducing risks during pregnancy. Women with Type 1 diabetes often have difficulties managing their glucose levels before and during pregnancy. However, reducing blood glucose levels before and during pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of serious adverse outcomes, including birth defects, stillbirth, and neonatal death. Women who are already pregnant or are planning a pregnancy are being offered an ‘artificial pancreas’ which is made up of an insulin pump, a glucose sensor, and an advanced algorithm running on a mobile phone application. The artificial pancreas will then calculate and deliver precise insulin dosages required before and during pregnancy. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us A generous contribution by Valero Pembroke Refinery will ensure a community group can celebrate VE Day in style. The refinery stepped in to help the Pembroke Young at Heart Group buy new crockery for their celebratory VE Day dinner in May, after their previous set was no longer deemed fit for purpose. Pembroke Young at Heart Club aims brings people living in Pembroke and Pembroke Dock aged 55 plus together for friendship and companionship. They hold regular bus trips away and a number of celebratory dinners throughout the year. “VE Day is a day of historical significance and none more so than this year as we celebrate its 80th anniversary,” said Valero Pembroke Refinery’s Public Affairs Manager Stephen Thornton. “Our ties with Pembroke Young at Heart Club and the community in and around Pembroke runs deep and we were only too happy to help with their request,” he added. Pembroke Young at Heart chair Gareth Jones said; “Events such as the VE Day dinner are important to us as a group and Valero’s sizeable contribution, along with contributions from others will ensure the future of them for years to come.” Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us On May 18, Stackpole Singers invite you to an evening of songs and stories at Pembroke Town Hall in aid of Greenacres Rescue. The singing group has teamed up with park ranger Lynne Houlston to combine their songs with stories of the western tip of Pembrokeshire Coast. The event at Pembroke Town Hall, SA71 4JS on Sunday, May 18 starts at 7pm and entry is free, with donations to Greenacres Rescue. The local animal rescue charity is part of so many people’s lives; attendees are encouraged to bring with them framed pictures of their own Greenacres rescues, which can be displayed on the night. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Giving Day 2025HomeGivingCurrent: Giving Day 2025Pembroke will be hosting a Giving Day on Thursday 5 June This is an exciting 24-hour fundraising event and all donations will support our Indigenous Education @ Pembroke Program The great thing about Giving Day is that all gifts made on the day will be matched thanks to the generosity of our Pioneer Donors We’ll be sharing more information soon (keep an eye on your emails and Pembroke’s Facebook and Instagram accounts), but if you’re keen to read more, please click here We are counting on our community to get behind this exciting initiative Design incorporates the Pembroke Indigenous logo developed by Indigenous scholars Michael Yunupingu (2015) Jenice Gordon (2017) and Brenz Saunders (2015) GOV.WALES uses cookies which are essential for the site to work Non-essential cookies are also used to tailor and improve services Haush Ltd plans to be the first of its kind to offer green hydrogen to decarbonise land sea and air transportation as well as fuel exports to Europe a green energy and technology company specialising in green hydrogen has today officially announced Pembroke Dock as their new HQ as they press ahead with plans to make the area a green hydrogen powerhouse Work on their Fleet Surgeons House HQ will now commence imminently with the immediate creation of the first jobs and plans to develop an education centre Welsh Government is supporting Haush through the HYBRID SBRI Hydrogen Port Re-Fuelling Project (HyPR) The project is developing trials to fast-track hydrogen production and refuelling services for onshore and offshore servicing of vessel fleets This includes designing a permanent hydrogen refuelling solution for the Port of Pembroke Dock Energy and Planning Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans was given a tour of the new Pembroke Dock site by Haush CEO Richard Winterbourne COO Adam Hill and CFO Peter Kristensen yesterday [Thursday 12 December] Jobs and green growth are a priority for this Welsh Government so I am delighted Haush has chosen to make Pembroke Dock the base of its new UK head office which align with our own aspirations to see Wales become a global leader in new renewable energy generation This investment will be good for our climate and our economy Haush has indicated its intention to train local residents to the highest standards for all of the jobs created in Pembroke Dock the Port of Milford Haven and further afield and to expand to the surrounding community the educational aspect of all they do Haush is delighted to be able to make this announcement today and to be taking this exciting green hydrogen production project forward We look forward to working hand-in-hand with Welsh Government to maximise the training and educational opportunities for the local community including equipping a future workforce with a transferable skills set Haush will be operating at the leading edge of green hydrogen technology and hope to play a major role in making the local green energy transition a reality Previously refused plans to convert an upstairs storage area for a gym on the site of a former Pembrokeshire town centre church, to a flat, have been given the go-ahead. In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Gethin Beynon sought permission for a change of use of a second-floor storage area associated with the Synergy Health and Fitness Centre, Trinity Building, Meyrick Street, Pembroke Dock to residential accommodation. The site was formerly the Bethel Baptist Church, in the town’s conservation area. A previous 2021 application was refused on the grounds a balcony and roof lights would impact on the character and appearance of the building, and the conservation area, “and would also result in the perceived overlooking of the private amenity areas of the dwellings immediately to the north and east of the site”. The resubmitted application sought to address those reasons, with changes including a removal of the balcony to the north, a reduction in the number of velux windows, and amended designs. A supporting statement said: “This amended design is not considered to result in a significant harmful overlooking impact and would reduce any overlooking perception to an acceptable level. “With regard to amenity provision, this is limited, however given the proposal only forming a two-bedroom unit and having a sustainable location being in the Pembroke Dock settlement, with open space amenity provision and facilities being nearby the proposal would be acceptable.” An officer report, recommending approval, said: “The development would provide new open market housing within the settlement boundary of the Hub Town of Pembroke Dock, resulting in positive environmental and social impacts through the appropriate reuse of the building and the increase in availability of varied accommodation in the local area and positive economic benefits through expenditure on building materials and on labour during constriction.” The application was conditionally approved. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Join Andi Jones for the final talk of the Pembroke and Monkton Local History Society 24/25 programme on Saturday He will talk about St Catherine's Island in Tenby Accessible via steps from Tenby’s Castle Beach at lower tides Doors at Pembroke Town Hall will open at 10am for coffee and there will be an opportunity to visit the Museum and Council Chamber which are situated on the first floor of the Town Hall – a lift is available for disabled access The talk will take place at 11am in the main hall on the ground floor All are welcome to the talk and entry is free Proceeds from the coffee morning and raffle cover the society’s overheads For more information, visit www.pembrokeandmonktonhistory.org.uk and keep up to date with the society on Facebook. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Pembroke Farmers Club is proud to be organising a ‘Summer Charity Concert’ in aid of Prostate Cymru and Pancreatic Cancer UK which will be held in Tenby The concert will be held at St Mary's Church on May 16 at 7pm The Club lost a long standing friend to pancreatic cancer last year and aim to raise money for this charity in his memory With over 200 male members of the club they felt that Prostate Cymru UK was a charity that should be supported also The Club is delighted that they have managed to secure a visiting Irish Choir called The Tredagh Singers from Drogheda to perform at the concert This mixed choir will perform along with Pembroke and District Male Voice choir and The Serendipity Ladies Choir from Narberth Through the years the choir has competed successfully in choral competitions in Ireland the UK and further afield and won at many Choral Festivals in the past The Tredagh Singers currently have 55 members who enjoy singing a wide repertoire ranging from medieval polyphony to modern compositions Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir has been an ever present part of the musical and social scene in Pembrokeshire for over 72 years Since their beginning in 1953 the choir has performed at countless venues - chapels Folly Farm and on larger stages such as with the Welsh Association of Male Voice Choirs gathering at the Royal Albert Hall in London on several occasions Ireland and Germany and have formed enduring connections with other choirs The choir takes pride in supporting many worthy causes raising many thousands of pounds over the years Since 2021 the choir has been under the admirable guidance of Juliet Rossiter who combined a teaching career with a lifetime's connection to choirs Also most welcome is the newly joined accompanist was recently appointed as priest in charge for the Angle Peninsula under the South Pembrokeshire LMA William has fitted perfectly in with the Musical team These choirs will be joined by The Serendipity Ladies Choir which was formed 9 years ago by musical director Juliet Rossiter and now boasts 50 members who practice on Monday nights at the Bloomfield Centre Mr Brian Harries will be the compere for the evening Brian is the chairman of the Pembrokeshire Branch of Prostate Cymru All proceeds will be divided equally between the two charities Please try and support these worthy charities If you would like to donate or need any information contact Ed Morris 01646661247 or email [email protected] Tickets are available from the following places: Dales Music Shop, Tenby; NFU offices in Narberth and Pembroke and Pembroke Town Hall and Museum and from local choir members. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Choral voices were raised to help bring back the bells of St Mary’s when Pembroke and District Male Voice staged a successful fundraiser at Pembroke’s parish church, St Mary’s Bell Conductor Ann Bunker gave details of the restoration project at the fundraiser, the choir’s most recent concert in a busy spring schedule. Choir and audience were welcomed by the vicar, Rev’d Heidi de Gruchy, and the concert was very much a family affair as her husband, Rev’d William Lambert, is the choir’s accompanist. Family teamwork was quickly in action as Rev’d Heidi came to the rescue when, during the first item, Rachie, the music stand on the keyboard fell off. With Heidi holding up the music, William never missed a note! Equilibrium restored, the choir continued in fine voice, backed up by MC Matthew John’s humour and stories. Choir items included one of several new pieces learned in recent months, ‘Anthem’ from the musical Chess, songs from Les Misérables and ‘My Lord What A Morning’. For the encore, ‘American Trilogy’, Matthew’s appeal for reinforcements from the audience brought three men to join in, one a visitor from the Wirral. Two solo items demonstrated the splendid keyboard skills of Rev’d William who played a Chopin ‘Polonaise’ and ‘Clare de Lune’ by Debussy. Latest new chorister to stage was baritone Jonathan Price, soon to be joined by other recent additions to the baritone and bass sections. The first tenor section continues to hope that local men who can hit the higher notes will also be attracted to join this very friendly choir. Next concert is a special one, on Sunday, May 4 at Monkton Priory Church, Pembroke, alongside old friends from Mansfield Male Voice, with some 60 choristers enjoying the superb acoustics of this magnificent church. The concert begins at 3.30pm. Further details are available from the choir’s Facebook pages. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us With six months of work upgrading gas pipes set to start in Pembroke on March 31, County Councillors have had ‘a flood of backlash’ from traders anticipating a drop in footfall and traffic. Wales and West Utilities’ upcoming gas pipe upgrade work in the Pembroke St Michael and Pembroke St Mary South areas “will make sure the gas network is ready to transport green gas like hydrogen and biomethane.” “We’re investing £500,000 to upgrade current metal pipes to new long-lasting plastic pipes,” said the energy company. “We know our work can be disruptive, so we have worked closely with Pembrokeshire County Council to keep disruption to a minimum,” but they added: “Traffic management will be in place as we work to upgrade the pipes in Holyland Road, Gooses Lane, Grove Hill, Main Street, Orange Way, Rock Terrace and Well Hill.” The local community has been invited to attend a drop-in information day in the Town Hall foyer on Monday, March 24, between 1.15pm and 5.45pm. With the disruption expected to continue to September, Aaron Carey, County Councillor for Pembroke: Monkton and St Mary South, wrote to the company to urge them to reconsider carrying out the works during the tourist season: “Carrying out these works during peak season in a seasonal town is likely to cause lasting damage to the local economy and character of the town. “After forwarding the information I received, within minutes I and my fellow Councillors have had a flood of backlash about the expected drop in through traffic and footfall. “As a town, we rely heavily on the summer months to bring in tourists, some who travel and stay here and many who stay in the local area (Tenby, Saundersfoot etc.) who will choose not to come to our town if there are queues of traffic and roadworks to get through,” the Councillor explained. “We have sadly already lost several shops in town over the past year due to declining footfall as a result of previous works which made the town a no-go area for several weeks. The damage that months of work could cause is unimaginable.” The response from Wales and West showed engagement with the issues and should prove, to some extent, reassuring: “I am very sorry to hear that some local traders are already experiencing declining footfall. One of the purposes of our drop-in centre is to engage with traders and guide them towards our loss of revenue form; our customer support officer will be able to provide guidance if anyone’s business is detrimentally affected by WWU’s gas mains replacement project. “Unfortunately, our works are risk driven and mandatory with these mains needing to be replaced as they are at end of life; it is not possible to delay these works.” The reply further stated that work on Main Street will be minimal, with further non-urgent work planned for a more convenient season. “It’s good to see Wales and West engaging with local stakeholders and hopefully listening to local traders, listening to their concerns, and acting accordingly,” commented Cllr Carey. Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us