PARKING ISSUES
August brought particularly good weather, and it was wonderful to see the village busy, with streets and beaches filled with visitors and residents alike enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. With this increase in footfall, however, comes the ongoing challenge of parking in Saundersfoot.
As I have highlighted previously, this is an issue we must continue to address collectively. On Bank Holiday Sunday, for example, the village sports field accommodated more cars than all of the other car parks combined. This demonstrates how vital the area is, not only for our village sporting teams but also in supporting the wider community at peak times. While this parking option is weather-dependent, it remains an important asset for managing exceptionally busy periods when car parks are at capacity.
The Plaza area has also been transformed with new independent shops, creating a more attractive and busy hub for visitors and locals alike. While this is positive for our economy and community spirit, the growth in visitors has unfortunately led to increased pressures on residential streets. We must not forget that our three main car parks in the village have had their spaces reduced over the years, due to resurfacing or from new layouts to improve visibility and safety. Residents have rightly raised concerns about cars partially blocking driveways and entrances, making it difficult to access their own properties.
To address these issues, I have escalated concerns to Pembrokeshire County Council and recently attended a productive meeting with the Public Realm Manager, the Senior Highways Traffic and Road Safety Engineer, and Councillor Cormack, who has also been engaging with residents. We discussed the challenges in detail, including the rise in village workers parking on residential streets, and will continue to work closely with residents to explore practical solutions. I encourage anyone experiencing problems to get in touch so we can ensure your views are included as discussions progress. Another point of frustration during August was non electric cars parking in the EV charging bays at the Regency car park. I have spoken with National Park Authority who own this car park and they have made it quite clear that the use of EV spaces is restricted to electric vehicles only. The main criticism we get is from combustion vehicle drivers complaining that the EV spaces are empty most of the time and why can’t they use them when the remainder of the car park is full. EV vehicles in the EV spaces need to pay for their parking session on the same rates and terms as any other vehicle within the car park with the single caveat that the maximum waiting time for an EV vehicle in an EV space is limited to 4 hours. This reflects the fact that these spaces are provided for recharging purposes, not for long stay parking. I think the issue raised is more reliant upon the development of good etiquette within the EV user community, not to occupy any EV space any longer than reasonably necessary to charge your vehicle.
With regard to the Glen, I share residents’ frustrations about the ongoing problem of cockle pickers and other individuals who park inconsiderately and leave rubbish behind. During a recent site visit by officers, a Jewson lorry was unable to navigate the bottom corner due to vehicles parked on double yellow lines. This is a stark reminder of the risks should an emergency vehicle need access. I have raised this urgently, and the Senior Traffic Officer has committed to meeting me on site in September to review potential solutions.
One proposal I have put forward is the installation of bollards on the carriageway, after the bend, on the right-hand side, which would prevent parking on this blind corner and ensure access at all times. Once this site visit has taken place, I hope to invite residents to a meeting where we can discuss the available options together.
Please be assured that your concerns are being taken seriously. Councillor Cormack and I will continue to engage with affected residents, and I welcome further feedback from anyone who wishes to share their experiences so that we can work collectively toward improvements.
Councillor Cormack and I, are undertaking a survey, so that we can provide detailed feedback to PCC Highways on the problem caused by on street parking. We hope to receive replies from concerned residents and this will help us shape our conversations with the PCC highways teams. We have listed the six streets we get the most reports about, but you can report any street in the Saundersfoot area.
https://forms.gle/5kYfMUEjUG1S1oHg8
JOBS REPORTED/COMPLETED
During August I have had numerous conversations with residents regarding jobs that need to be completed in the village. On top of the list was the water leak at Brewery Terrace, This went on for over three weeks during August and annoyed a lot of the residents. I know that I reported this on more than one occasion and also residents reported it. The issue was around arranging a traffic order during the peak weeks with the BH traffic coming in and out of the village. It was felt that Welsh Water would be better off completing the repairs after the busy summer season and cause the least amount of disruption in the village as this appeared to be a minor leak.
The hedgerow at Brooklands Place has been cut back and all the gullies have been cleaned out. I have also reported an overgrown hedge on the Ridgeway that is overhanging and causes pedestrians to step onto the road. This is a busy road and quite narrow in parts and I would like to thank those who have raised this. PCC has written to the owners of this property regarding the overhanging hedge. I have also chased up regarding the path from Bevelin Hall down onto Sandy Hill Road and have been assured that this will be looked at and new stone laid due to stones being washed away during last winter’s heavy rain showers. Blocked drains have been reported on the Strand, High Street and I recently met the PCC team with contractors on site at Ragged Staff. There still seems to be an issue with a drain that appears to be blocked. Contractors did send a camera down the pipe and it has now been coned off. I’m waiting on a full report so I can pass on to the residents of Ragged Staff.
During August there was a report of a dead badger that was on the side of the road and, because of the heat and length of time, the aroma was intense. Thanks to Nicky at PCC it was removed. Thank you to residents who have travelled on the open top double decker bus between Saundersfoot and Tenby and reported that when they approach the top of St Brides Hill they have to travel in the wrong lane due to branches hanging down. I also witnessed this whilst driving up St Brides and had to wait while the bus was driving in my lane. I have reported this to the StreetCare team and have asked for this to be looked at as soon as convenient as drivers may not be familiar with the issue. I also met the environmental team at Stammers Road, along with the interim chief environmental services officer. I have reported this previously as being a fly tipping hot spot and I was delighted that there was such a good turn out from PCC to look at different options for this location. I will say that that there have been slight improvements over the last two years but not enough to prevent fly tipping. The team is looking to introduce a new bin store hidden from opportunist fly tippers and change the layout at this property. The current system isn’t working for its current residents or the neighbouring properties. I would like to thank PCC for their perseverance on this site and also the team who clean up after its been abused. I will now be speaking to the six different property owners to make sure that they have the correct recycling bins and sacks to put out for collection. The public footpath between Swallow Dale and Stammers Lane has been used by irresponsible people are now using it to dump their dog poo bags in the long grass. It has become very unpleasant to walk down which is a shame as it is regularly used by locals and holidaymakers. I have chased PCC to make sure this grass is maintained regularly and can I please remind the very small minority of irresponsible dog owners that they shouldn’t inconvenience responsible dog owners or those who do not have a dog. Everyone should clear up after their own dog and I struggle with how this is an issue for a few. I had to chase the managers at the new site on Sandy Hill Road after neighbours raised concerns of the contractors’ radios being used early in close proximity to established neighbouring properties. This was sorted out immediately by the managers and I welcome their swift actions on this. There has been a new road surface laid at Brooklands Place that has raised some concerns from residents as this is a ‘tar and chip’ process and takes time to settle in. The site has had the road sweeper and this is now settling in. There is, however, still a drain that needs to be cleaned out to allow water to run off from the gullies. This has been chased and I hope it will be sorted before the winter period. I would like to confirm that an offensive flag was hoisted in he village without any authorisation or approval. This was brought to my attention by several residents. Councillor Cormack and I acted immediately to remove it. The display was wholly inappropriate and does not in any way represent the views of Saundersfoot or its residents. Our village prides itself on being inclusive, respectful, and welcoming to all, and this unauthorised act was both disappointing and unacceptable.
Lastly, I would like to report on the active travel link at Fan Road and its connection with the Incline, which is proving very popular with residents and visitors alike. Some concerns have been raised about limited access from the Ridgeway to these routes. After inspecting the locations myself, I fully agree with the valid points highlighted by the residents. The right-hand side of the Ridgeway, when driving towards Fan Road, does have a pavement, but in many areas it lacks tactile mobility access points. This makes it difficult for those using mobility scooters, parents pushing pushchairs, or wheelchairs to navigate safely. I have raised this matter with the Highways team and have a meeting planned in September to explore the introduction of suitable access improvements to better support those with mobility restrictions.
HIGHWAYS UPDATE
The new Active Travel link between Saundersfoot rail station and the village centre is now complete and is already being very well used. This new route gives residents and visitors a safe, well-designed connection between the village and the rail network for walking, cycling, and other non-motorised travel. Additional signage will soon be installed to improve wayfinding along the route.
Alongside this, the engineering study for the Ridgeway is being finalised. This will consider how the road functions, identify safety concerns, and explore what improvements can realistically be made to help both motorists and pedestrians.
Work is also being planned to introduce a new road priority system under the Station Road rail bridge. This is a pinch point in the network, and the changes aim to improve safety and traffic flow. Construction is expected to take place after the autumn school break to reduce disruption.
On Stammers Road, civil works have been organised and will begin shortly after the Ironman weekend. These improvements will include widening the eastern footway into a shared-use path for both pedestrians and cyclists, introducing better pedestrian crossing points, and reviewing parking and loading arrangements on Brewery Terrace. After extensive discussions with residents and local businesses, the decision has been taken to retain the loading bay in its current position. However, to maximise its benefit to the wider community, Councillor Cormack and I have asked PCC to make the loading bay also available to allow short-stay (30-minute) parking during designated times when loading is not required. This would support local shops and services, as the loading bay is part of the public highway and is intended to serve all businesses in the area.
Cambrian Terrace has posed a more complex challenge for engineers due to the narrow layout and the overwhelming support from residents in the community to preserve this historic wall of the sensory garden. Current proposals include introducing a controlled pedestrian crossing and an Active Travel-compliant cycle system to improve connectivity while minimising the impact on the existing footway and carriageway. Disabled parking bays will be retained, while other short-stay and loading bays may be relocated to the eastern side of the carriageway to balance business needs with improved safety and accessibility.
I will be meeting with the Highways Team at the end of September, and I hope to be able to share the proposed designs with the community shortly after.
SAUNDERSFOOT ROTARY
I am delighted to share the Rotary team’s work each month, as they continue to go from strength to strength. It is wonderful to see their commitment and hard work in the village, supporting so many events and organisations. Their efforts not only bring the community together but also provide valuable support to local causes, making a real and lasting difference. Saundersfoot Rotary Club has celebrated an exceptionally busy August, rounding off the summer with a programme full of community engagement, family fun, and fundraising for local and international good causes.
Throughout the month, members and supporters were involved in a wide variety of activities. A large collection of old, used, and unused spectacles was gathered for recycling, with the glasses redistributed to people around the world who are visually impaired and without access to corrective eyewear. The club expressed its gratitude to Ecoast in Saundersfoot and Sam Turner, who kindly host the collection point on their behalf.
The ever-popular sandcastle competitions brought joy to families on the beach each Sunday in August, delighting large numbers of children and parents alike. The club also supported Saundersfoot Harbour by providing refreshments at the harbour’s open-air Sunset Cinema screenings, which drew strong community support throughout the month.
Another highlight came with the famous duck races, which once again attracted large crowds and raised record sums for local charities. Meanwhile, the hog roasts on the harbour, generously supported by Andrew Rees & Sons Butchers of Narberth, proved a fantastic success on two occasions. Unfortunately, poor weather forced the cancellation of the final event of the season on 31 August, which would have been a fitting way to close the month.
Despite that disappointment, August was one of the most productive months the Rotary Club has experienced, raising thousands of pounds for local charities while offering entertainment and enjoyment for both residents and visitors. The Saundersfoot Rotary Club extends its thanks to everyone who supported its events this summer, as their involvement has helped make a real difference in the community and beyond.
EVENTS
During August I have held a number of meetings with PCC officers and the Public Realm Manager in preparation for the major events taking place in Saundersfoot this September/October. The Saundersfoot Triathlon will be held on Friday 19 September, followed by Ironman on Sunday 21 September.
I have always supported both of these events and will continue to do so. The Saundersfoot Triathlon has grown significantly over the years and is now firmly established as a highlight in the village calendar. The majority of residents and businesses support the event, which is evident in the build-up as the village becomes a hive of anticipation and activity. Saundersfoot provides the perfect setting for this type of triathlon, with our independent businesses and hospitality premises contributing to the unique atmosphere for both competitors and visitors. This year, for the first time, Councillor Cormack and I have insisted on full road closures in the village for the Saundersfoot Triathlon. This decision was based on direct feedback from residents, competitors, and visitors, who rightly believe that safety must come first. Thousands of people line the streets to cheer on friends, family, and participants, and it is essential that they can do so without the presence of moving vehicles. Allowing runners and cyclists to share the village roads with traffic creates unnecessary risk. Road closures are therefore paramount to the success and safety of the event given the increasing numbers attending.
On Sunday, Ironman passes through Saundersfoot and once again the village plays its part. The streets are lined with spectators, creating a unique and memorable atmosphere as athletes tackle St Brides Hill before continuing toward New Hedges and on to Tenby. The addition of the car park near the New Hedges roundabout has also been a welcome improvement, making it easier for supporters to access both Saundersfoot and Tenby. Both the Saundersfoot Triathlon and Ironman support local businesses, extend the summer season, and have the strong backing of the community. These are the types of events that bring real value to Saundersfoot, and I will continue to support them. Not every event delivers the same benefits, and my responsibility is to ensure that those we host work for the residents and businesses I represent. Signage for both September events is already in place, providing at least two weeks’ notice of the full road closures. I feel two weeks is a reasonable timeframe to ensure all residents and visitors are aware and can make suitable arrangements.
The Big Bang event will take place in the village over the weekend of 24th, 25th, and 26th October. This much-loved celebration, previously organised by the Chamber for Tourism, will this year be delivered by Love Saundersfoot. The team will be supported by Phil Odleey, whose wealth of experience in managing this event over many years will ensure it continues to be a highlight of our calendar.
The funfair will open from 2pm on Friday, and from 12 noon on both Saturday and Sunday. The ever-popular firework displays will take place on Saturday evening, with the Mini Bang starting at 6.30pm, followed by the Big Bang at 8pm.
Last year’s event was blessed with excellent weather and drew thousands of visitors into the village, creating a fantastic atmosphere. We look forward to another successful and enjoyable weekend this year and, hopefully, more dry skies.
Saundersfoot Triathlon – Temporary road closures.
There will be temporary road closures on the following roads to facilitate a Saundersfoot Triathlon event. The event is due to take place on Friday 19th September 2025 between 16:00hrs until approximately 20:00hrs (timings are approximate).
Road closures required:
|
The Strand – its whole length |
16:00 – 20:00 |
|
Wogan Terrace – its whole length |
16:30 – 20:00 |
|
High Street – its whole length |
16:30 – 20:00 |
|
Cambrian Place – its whole length |
16:30 – 20:00 |
In addition to the above road closures, the one way restriction on the following lengths of road will be suspended during the event, and prohibit any vehicle from waiting, loading or unloading on those sections of road.
|
Frances Lane – its whole length |
16:30 – 20:00 |
|
Church Terrace – its whole length |
16:30 – 20:00 |
|
Milford Street – its whole length |
16:30 – 20:00 |
SWIM COPPET
After the successes of The TenFoot Long Distance Swim & TenFoot Swim Run, organisers decided earlier in the year to launch a new and more inclusive event for 2025. Swim Coppet was planned to appeal to swimmers of differing abilities over different distances. The Event was scheduled to take part, last Saturday, 6th September with support from, (Event Partners) The Hean Castle Estate & Main Sponsor, Your Parking Space. Over 150 Swimmers had entered to take part but having attended the bay early on Saturday morning, it became apparent to organisers & the Safety Team that, due to the deteriorating weather conditions & strong, gusting south easterly winds, the event would not be able to go ahead. Whilst it was a shame for everyone involved (especially those that would have travelled from outside the area), the right decision was made in order to ensure the safety of Swimmers, Safety Team members & Volunteers. Organisers Thanked everyone involved for all their hard work throughout the year, including the Swimmers who entered.
Swim Coppet will be scheduled for 2026 when it is hoped that people will once again show their support by entering. Proceeds from this years’ swim & the 2026 swim will still go to the two nominated Charities.
The Robotic Surgery Department at The Heath Hospital, Cardiff – In memory of Terry Pugh & Swim Narberth – Community Swimming Pool ;
SPEEDING/MOTORISTS
During August, I received a number of emails from residents concerned about the speed of vehicles travelling in and out of our village, particularly late at night. I want to reassure you that these concerns are being taken seriously and I am committed to supporting residents who feel affected by this issue.
Back in 2023/24, I worked with Councillor Cormack and Saundersfoot Community Council to explore ways of improving road safety. The introduction of speed indicator devices has, in my view, made a positive difference, particularly for those not familiar with the roads in and around our village. While I am aware that speeding still occurs on occasions, I believe there has been a noticeable reduction, and I would welcome residents’ views on this.
Following recent correspondence, I wrote to Mrs. Claire Williams, Senior Traffic and Road Safety Engineer at Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC), to raise these concerns. Since then, PCC has placed a traffic monitor at the bottom of Broadfield Hill. The data collected will allow the team to analyse vehicle speeds accurately, and I will ensure that these findings are shared with residents in due course.
I would also like to take this opportunity to recognise the improvements brought about by the Active Travel links. These are already proving to be a real asset to the village, and it is encouraging to know that further developments are planned over the next 18 months to create safer routes to New Hedges and neighbouring communities.
From my own perspective, the installation of the speed indicators has had a positive impact, particularly on Broadfield Hill, where speeds regularly exceeded the 40mph limit prior to their installation. The visual reminders are helping to encourage more responsible driving behaviour. I am fully supportive of continued monitoring of this stretch of road, and I trust that PCC will make use of both current and historical data to provide a clear comparison of results.
Given the open nature of this section of road, where visibility is good and forward sightlines are strong, I do not believe additional traffic calming measures are necessary at this stage. The strategically placed speed indicator already acts as an important reminder to motorists, especially as they descend the hill and naturally pick up speed.
If you have further concerns about speeding in the village, I encourage you to contact either myself or PCC directly so that your views can be considered as part of this ongoing work.
COCKLE PICKERS
During this summer season, particularly at low tides, we have seen a large number of cockle pickers descending on the village. Whilst there is little that can be done at a local level, I urge residents to write to the Fisheries Department with their concerns in order to highlight the issues and the need for stronger regulation.
It is extremely frustrating that not a week goes by without residents raising this issue. The cockle pickers seem to attend in large groups, most frequently on Tuesdays, often arriving as extended families. They park indiscriminately, showing disregard for enforcement and for the rights of local residents who are left to manage the disruption. Many arrive in high-end vehicles from outside Wales, and a £35 parking fine is not a sufficient deterrent. It is concerning that they are travelling considerable distances to collect shellfish from our village.
These concerns have already been raised with the Fisheries Department. Their response, provided for clarity and transparency, is summarised below.
Officers attended during the recent set of Spring Tides, most recently on August 12th, when approximately 50 people were present. They appeared to be mostly family groups. No fisheries offences were disclosed, and no evidence of commercial gathering was detected. Officers confirmed they would continue to maintain a presence when possible during favourable tides, although resources are limited.
The Fisheries Department explained that other agencies will only act if definitive evidence is found of commercial gathering or shellfish entering the food chain. I believe this places Fisheries in a difficult position, as they continue to receive reports but have limited ability to take enforcement action without clear offences. Some investigations have been initiated as a result of shared intelligence, but outcomes depend on cooperation from other bodies.
Residents should be aware of the potential signs of commercial activity. These may include the use of quad bikes to transport sacks, vehicles such as vans or flatbeds, groups of similar-aged individuals arriving together, the use of uniform equipment supplied by a leader, or large full sacks being left on the beach for collection. None of these indicators alone prove commercial gathering, but if observed, they should be reported immediately. Out of hours, police should be contacted, as they have wider powers to conduct vehicle and driver checks.
The Fisheries Department also noted that cockle picking of this nature has occurred for decades at sites across the Welsh coast and is often a cultural practice among family groups. However, concerns about sustainability remain, and local voices are important in calling for stronger protections.
I therefore urge residents to continue reporting concerns to the relevant departments and to the police where appropriate. Only through consistent reporting and pressure can stronger measures be considered to protect the shellfish beds and ensure fair use of our coastline.
POLICE UPDATE ON SHOPLIFFTING
I recently wrote to Chief Inspector Michael Llewellyn regarding concerns raised by local shop owners about shoplifting in Saundersfoot. I have now received a reply with information that I would like to share.
Between September 2024 and July 2025, there were two recorded shoplifting offences in Saundersfoot (five since May 2024). Of these, two have been detected, two were closed without an offender identified, and one remains under investigation. In nearby areas, five offences have been reported in Kilgetty and Begelly this year, and one in the Manorbier/Penally area.
The Chief Inspector has confirmed that while concerns are understood, the figures currently do not suggest a significant shoplifting problem in Saundersfoot compared with other areas. Police resources must be prioritised where the greatest threat, harm and risk exist. However, every incident must be reported to the police in order to ensure the right level of response and to build an accurate picture of the situation.
If any businesses feel that a police response has been inadequate, these concerns can be raised directly. The police have also offered to meet with Councillor Cormack and myself, along with local businesses, to discuss the issues further.
Shoplifting is a national policing priority, and all offences reported to Dyfed-Powys Police are reviewed and investigated. Where necessary, response officers will attend and suspects will be pursued.
I thanked the Chief Inspector for his response and will continue to work with local businesses on this matter. That said, I am aware of more incidents than those recorded, which suggests some offences are not being reported. I strongly urge all businesses to report every case of theft or abuse so that action can be taken and the scale of the problem can be properly recognised.
FLY TIPPING
This issue is not unique to Saundersfoot and is being experienced across the country. That said, Saundersfoot has seen real improvements in recent years thanks to a stronger emphasis on recycling, alongside the efforts of local residents and councillors who continue to challenge abuses where they occur.
Understandably, residents and businesses become frustrated when bins overflow, particularly during busy June/July/August weekends, as this leaves an unsightly impression of the village. I want to be clear that PCC’s local team do an excellent job managing the bins. Their commitment this summer has been outstanding, with many occasions where they responded late into the evening to ensure bins were emptied when demand was at its highest. I would like to thank Julie, Sam, Bob, and the wider team for their continued hard work in maintaining our beaches and village. I would also like to thank the Harbour team for their support and vigilance. All their efforts are invaluable and show what can be achieved when we work together.
However, while the overall situation has improved, I have still witnessed instances of inappropriate use of public bins, along with private commercial bins, particularly by holidaymakers disposing of household waste. In many cases, they were unaware that this was considered fly-tipping and could result in a fine. While some visitors were eager to recycle properly, others reported that their holiday accommodation offered no recycling facilities, and in one case, guests were told to take their waste home with them. Inevitably, this pushed the burden back onto the village and PCC, with guests using public bins daily until reminded of the consequences.
In August, I was provided with details of five such properties by visitors, which I have passed to the environmental team for follow-up. Every holiday property should have a trade waste agreement to ensure a clear, traceable system is in place, and every holiday apartment should be providing full recycling facilities for their guests.
The majority of holiday property owners comply with their obligations, but a small minority attempt to cut corners, saving money at the expense of local residents and the wider community. This behaviour leaves a negative impact, both visually and financially, as money spent clearing excess waste could be far better used by PCC to support other community initiatives.
I fully support our residents and businesses that are rightly frustrated by this issue and will continue to press for stronger action to ensure every holiday property complies with waste and recycling requirements. Saundersfoot deserves nothing less.
I have also had a brief update from PCC confirming they will continue to work closely with NRW in reporting non-compliance with workplace regulations, and good progress is being made in addressing these issues.
SAUNDERSFOOT MEDICAL CENTRE
This is an update kindly supplied by the medical centre.
Flu Vaccinations, Appointments are now available for patients aged over 65 and for those in at-risk groups (including diabetes, asthma, COPD, heart/kidney/liver disease, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, immunosuppression, high BMI, carers, healthcare workers and others). Pregnant women and children aged 2–3 years can book from September.
Flu clinics will be held on 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Saturday 4th October. On Saturday 4th October, patients may walk in between 9.30am and 12.00pm. Appointments are for registered patients only. More dates will be added once our new computer system is in place.
New Computer System. We are introducing a new system to improve appointment access and bring in electronic prescriptions. Please be aware of temporary changes while we move across: Repeat prescriptions must be ordered before 12 September. From 16–24 September only urgent blood tests will be carried out. Results will not be available during this time except for abnormal findings (patients will be contacted directly). NHS App and eConsult will be unavailable 16–24 September. From 18 September for 12 working days, all appointments will be same-day only. There will be limited appointments from 22 September for 10 days while we rebuild our diary.
Medical Team - Dr Kate Davies has returned from maternity leave (Thursdays and Fridays). Dr Dew is now with us permanently on Wednesdays. Dr Krzysztof Malinowski returns 15 September and will work Monday–Wednesday. Dr Clio Francis joins on 3 September, working Wednesday–Friday. A new full-time practice nurse also starts on 3 September.
Other Updates • A new patient call board will be installed in late September. Our phone system will be upgraded in October – further details to follow. We are currently short-staffed in prescriptions due to illness; please be patient while we work to improve the service. Activity in July – 3977 appointments booked, 26,487 prescriptions issued, 64 new patients registered, 84 sick notes issued, 459 referrals made, 7392 calls handled. The surgery would like to thank you for your patience as they transition to their new system.
SAUNDERSFOOT HARBOUR NEWS
Saundersfoot harbour would like to thank the community for their support over the summer period. It was great to have so many people turn out to support the Rotary events, sunset cinema, dog show, wedding fayre and other events. The Harbour would also like to thank locals and visitors for supporting the variety of pop-up shops in the Coal building this year, which has enabled the museum to operate a free entry offer and the weekly food produce market, which is now a regular event. Saundersfoot Harbour have launched Harbour Hub this week, which is a hot desk space for people to use at the Marine Centre, more info can be found by contacting the harbour team directly.
VJ DAY
I was honoured to attend the VJ Ceremony at the Cenotaph in Saundersfoot on Friday 15 August, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan. The service included wreath-laying and a well-observed two-minute silence at the war memorial outside St Issel’s Church.
It was especially moving to see local resident, Duncan Hilling, who served in Japan during the Second World War, in attendance with his daughter. His presence brought a fitting sense of connection to the occasion.
My thanks go to Saundersfoot Community Council for arranging the service and to the councillors who kindly marshalled traffic during the event. Wreaths were laid by Lynn Knibbs on behalf of the children of Far East prisoners of war, Mike Knibbs for the Royal British Legion, Gethin Hughes on behalf of Saundersfoot Youth Club, and Councillor Rosemary Hayes OBE on behalf of Saundersfoot Community Council. This was a respectful and poignant occasion, and I am grateful to all who took part in ensuring the sacrifices made by so many were remembered.
SMELT
I reported previously that a consultation was held by Saundersfoot Community Council in relation to the proposed Coal Trucks at the Sensory Garden. Things are now moving forward, and the Community Council has been advised that no planning application will be required for this project. This will save valuable time and allow work to progress smoothly in partnership with the Community Council to deliver a fitting addition to the village. I would also like to thank the community council for their continued support on this.
It is important to remember that Saundersfoot, long before becoming the popular tourist destination it is today, was shaped by its industrial heritage. The village played a central role in the coal industry of Pembrokeshire, with coal mining and export through the harbour forming the backbone of our community and sustaining local families for generations. The coal trucks are intended to be a permanent reminder of this important chapter in our history, ensuring that our industrial past is recognised alongside the vibrant tourism economy we now enjoy.
This project will be entirely funded by the former Festivities Committee, and it is hoped that it will serve as a lasting monument to our heritage, celebrating the hard work and resilience of those who came before us and preserving that history for future generations. Work is being planned to start in November.
Refresh your knowledge at mature driver course
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Road Safety department is continuing to offer free monthly mature driver courses for residents aged 65 plus.
The course, held at Haverfordwest Fire Station, includes a classroom based morning and a practical driving session with an approved instructor to help address any personal concerns drivers have now and for the future.
The next course is on September 17th.
In the classroom attendees will hold informal discussions, watch safety films and refresh their knowledge of the Highway Code and its updates, a great chance to highlight any bad driving habits developed over the years and help keep people driving safer for longer.
After this a driving lesson will be arranged within two weeks of the session and will cover any aspects of driving the participant wishes to address, from parallel parking to roundabouts, as well as general safer driving techniques.
There is no assessment or test and the course is not a formal assessment of someone’s driving!
Thanks to Road Safety Grant funding from Welsh Government the course is free of charge to residents of Pembrokeshire.
Road Safety Officer, Sally Jones, said: “We are very proud of our mature driver course, which is delivered in a friendly, relaxed environment. Our aim is to keep residents of Pembrokeshire driving safer, for longer.
“The course is always well attended and those who participate are always positive about their experience on the course and the information they have gained.”
Call 01437 775144 or email road.safety@pembrokeshire.gov.uk for more info and to sign up.
An application form and more information can be found at: Mature Driver – Pembrokeshire County Council
SAUNDERSFOOT BOWLING CLUB UPDATE
It is fantastic to see the bowling club thrive this season and both teams have a tremendous season. Both the men and ladies have produced numerous County champions and representatives in their respective County teams. Saundersfoot finished second in the Pembrokeshire league behind winners Tenby. This is an improvement on the previous year and it was fantastic to see St Issells team reaching the final of the Brain’s cup, unfortunately they lost to the five arches team from Tenby. Saundersfoot and (St Issells second team ) have mixed men and lady team players. While the Ladies team finished midtable in a competitive league. More importantly from a longer term viewpoint the club have had a number of new members that have joined this year and they are contributing to the success of the club both on and off the field which is extremely encouraging. Going forward we will use this year as a springboard for the future and anyone is welcome to come along and try bowls for the first time.
RNLI
August was another busy month for the Saundersfoot RNLI Team. The Yellow Welly Trail ran for the final month of the season and by the end had given entertainment, a bit of exercise and plenty of fun facts about the village to around 750 people. A quick visit to the shop on the high street reveals a large board of pictures, beaming faces of just some of those that did the Trail, all of them proudly showing their badges & certificates.
The August winner was drawn and turned out to be a Visitor from Wigan (now keen to come back and do it again next year!). The Trail was declared an unqualified success, because it also raised over £1,600 (thanks again to Valero’s generous sponsorship) enough to buy over 22 pairs of extremely good, but expensive Crew Yellow Wellies….What fun it was for everyone! The Bank Holiday Sunday afternoon saw more RNLI activity on the Beach with Cyril’s Pebble Competition, Crew dressing up for kids, selfies at the inflatable Shannon Lifeboat and plenty of engagement with Stormy Stan out and about!…all of it following an actual rescue by Tenby RNLI of a motor-boat that got into difficulties in the bay that morning. A group of Saundersfoot Volunteers travelled up to support Fishguard’s open day and we the team at Saundersfoot welcomed more new Volunteers. September will be quiet by comparison as we plan for October events and the run up to Christmas.
UPDATE FROM THE BRIDGE CHURCH
The Bridge Church Saundersfoot held a Whitney Houston evening, supported by Saundersfoot Rotary and Copper Hog Butchers on the 5th September hosted superbly by Emma at the Regency Hall. The band led by Marcia Lynnette, were on a UK tour doing the Whitney tribute and provided around 160 people with a top class evening to remember. Over £1000 was raised to go between the 3 charities, Mind, BABY Bank and Pembrokeshire Vehicle transport. Marcia, singing the songs was absolutely amazing, with fantastic back up from the backing singers and musicians. The audience were treated to many of Whitney classics and were encouraged to join in. People still talked about the Motown evening presented 3 years ago by a gospel choir and now questioned how the Whitney evening could be bettered. It was a privilege to do this for the community, raise money for the charities with the various local groups involved and show that as a church we can have a great time. The Bridge would like to thank everyone who supported this event.
LOVE SAUNDERSFOOT
I am personally delighted to see this independently elected group bringing the community together in much the same way as the former Chamber for Tourism once did. The reintroduction of events throughout the year is so important for village life, offering opportunities for residents to connect together. I have no doubt that our community will fully engage with and support the many events being organised, which will help strengthen our sense of community pride in Saundersfoot. Planning is well underway for our first events in October – Fireworks for the Big Bang, Halloween Trick & Treat Trail with other events in the planning stage as well. We’re looking forward to seeing plenty of activities and happy faces, so please pray for some decent weather! And you may have seen large red signs going up in the village during August. They are at the Royal Oak, outside the Laundry on Brewery Terrace and at the end of the Strand. Love Saundersfoot has been working extremely hard this year to make sure that everyone knows how to find the Calendar and discover What’s On in the village, weekly and bi-weekly events, Social gatherings and entertainment to name a few. All of this for us as residents as well as visitors. It’s clearly working: During August, Love Saundersfoot received 404,000 views across our posts, an impressive 48.9% increase in the month, 4,600 unique visits to our Facebook page and 531 new followers. We’re therefore now close to an impressive 18,000 followers….all of this being important for our Business Members wanting to reach more and new Customers.
Onboarding Business Members is therefore now underway with posts and shout-outs for early adopter local businesses. The Shoe Box feature post had 41,500 views and the Bakery on the Strand’s welcome post saw a whopping 69,000 views. This is all building up to the full Business listings going live very soon. Please contact one of us or email hello@lovesaundersfoot.co.uk if you would like to hear more. Thank you to everyone who follows, shares and supports already.
And finally, we plan to hold a public event in the near future to share more and to gather your views and suggestions…….watch this space.
Cllr Chris Williams
Saundersfoot South
