Watchdog called in after armed police fire gun ‘not aimed at any individual’ in Milford Haven

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed a single shot was fired on Saturday evening (March 28) following a call about disorder in the Bunkers Hill area of Milford Haven.

Officers were called to the scene at around 5.45pm after concerns were raised about an individual allegedly in possession of a knife.

Firearms officers were among those deployed as police moved to contain the situation.

A police spokesperson said that during the incident, at approximately 6.32pm, an officer discharged a single shot.

Dyfed Powys Police have stressed that the firearm was not aimed at any individual, and no injuries were reported.

The force say that a police presence remained in the area into the following day as enquiries continued.

The incident has now been referred to the watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which will decide whether to launch an independent investigation.

Deputy Chief Constable Gary Phillips said an investigation is already underway.

He said:

“We have initiated a prompt investigation into the circumstances that led to the firearms being discharged, and have referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

“We will work with them as we continue to establish the circumstances leading up to the discharge.”

Police have not released further details about the individual involved in the reported disorder.

It is also not yet clear what led to the decision to discharge the weapon, although officers had been responding to reports involving a knife.

Incidents involving the discharge of police firearms are rare in Wales and are subject to strict oversight.

The watchdog will now assess the circumstances and determine the next steps in the investigation.

Dyfed Powys Police say that residents in the area may continue to see an increased police presence while enquiries are ongoing.

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MILFORD HAVEN: £50m hydrogen green energy ‘revolution’ to create 70 local jobs

Construction is expected to kick off this year on the hydrogen-generating facility, in what is being described as a “defining milestone” for the West Wales energy sector.

The plant, developed by MorGen Energy, will be built on the site of a former oil refinery at the Impala terminal, previously Puma Energy.

MorGen say this “significant investment” is poised to create 60 jobs during the construction phase alone, providing a major boost to the local economy.

The company say that the new plant will be up and running by early 2028, and is set to produce approximately 2,000 tonnes per annum of low-carbon hydrogen, compliant with the UK’s Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard.

Once completed, the facility will support up to 10 permanent, highly skilled roles, according to the developers.

The hydrogen will be used across a broad range of applications, including port decarbonisation, industrial heating, manufacturing and chemical feedstock.

The West Wales Hydrogen project is among the first in the UK to receive the green light from investors, backed by a 15-year government revenue guarantee.

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens hailed the project, stating it will “create jobs and help grow the Welsh economy.”

Luciana Ciubotariu, CEO of Celtic Freeport, welcomed the move, noting its importance for the local tax site.

“MorGen Energy’s decision is another major step forward for the hydrogen economy in South West Wales,” she said.

Ms Ciubotariu added that projects within the Milford Haven Tax Site demonstrate how the Celtic Freeport is accelerating decarbonisation while creating high-value jobs.

The 20MW plant is expected to produce approximately 2,000 tonnes of low-carbon hydrogen annually, powered primarily by UK windfarms.

This hydrogen will be used to decarbonise heavy industry, including port operations, industrial heating, and manufacturing across South Wales.

The plant will produce hydrogen through electrolysis, a process that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity.

Sheffield-based ITM Power has been selected to supply the electrolyser system, providing a further boost to UK manufacturing and technology.

This clean energy process is expected to achieve more than 15,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions savings annually, according to the developers.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks emphasised the importance of hydrogen in the UK’s energy strategy.

He said backing hydrogen was “crucial in de-carbonising industry, driving investment, boosting our energy security and creating hundreds of jobs in our industrial heartlands.”

Shanks added that this investment demonstrates how Wales is embracing the clean energy transition, creating new opportunities for local communities.

Werner Lieberherr, CEO of MorGen Energy, described the investment decision as a “defining milestone” for the company and the UK hydrogen sector.

He highlighted that it shows green hydrogen projects in the UK can be delivered as “bankable infrastructure investments.”

The project’s location within the Celtic Freeport area means it will benefit from existing infrastructure in Milford Haven, including 63 storage tanks and a comprehensive network of pipelines.

This development marks a significant step forward for renewable energy in West Wales, positioning the region at the forefront of the green technology revolution.

Local contractors are expected to play a key role in the construction, providing a direct boost to the Welsh economy and creating further opportunities.

Teen charged with GBH after Milford Haven school stabbing as police confirm injuries were stab wounds

Detectives say the teenager has been charged with Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm and possession of a bladed article on school premises. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Magistrates Court today.

It comes after officers revealed that injuries initially described as “non‑stab injuries” have now been confirmed as stab wounds following detailed medical assessment.

‘Victim being supported after traumatic event’

Senior Investigating Officer DCI Matthew Briggs said the early description of the injuries was based on “preliminary information” available at the time, but specialist enquiries have since confirmed the wounds were caused by a blade.

He said the victim — understood to be a member of staff — is continuing to receive support as they recover from what police described as a “traumatic event”.

The school went into lockdown on Thursday after the incident, with pupils kept in classrooms while officers secured the site. Staff were praised for their calm and professional response.

Increased police presence to continue

Police say there will be a higher‑than‑usual presence around the school and surrounding area over the coming days to reassure pupils, parents and staff.

Officers will also be working with local secondary schools next week to offer support and guidance.

The school is expected to reopen as planned on Monday, with the headteacher previously telling parents that safety measures and wellbeing support will be in place.

A community still reeling

The incident has shocked Milford Haven, with parents describing the lockdown as “terrifying” and pupils reporting a heavy police presence around the site.

It follows two days of intense speculation online, which police have repeatedly urged the public not to fuel while the investigation continues.

This latest update confirms the most serious charge available for an assault of this nature, signalling the gravity of the incident and the scale of the ongoing investigation.

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Milford Haven School to reopen on Monday as staff praised for ‘professional and calm’ response after lockdown incident

Police were called to the site on Thursday afternoon after a teacher was injured in an incident involving a weapon. A 15‑year‑old was arrested at the scene. Pupils were kept safely inside classrooms while officers secured the area, with only a small number of learners still on site at the time.

In a new statement, Deputy Headteacher Daryl John praised the way staff and pupils handled the situation.

“On behalf of the school staff and governors, I would like to thank and praise all of the staff and the small number of pupils who remained on site,” he said.

“They all conducted themselves with professionalism and were calm throughout. We are extremely grateful to the emergency services for their rapid and effective response.

“Our heartfelt best wishes go out to our colleague, and we look forward to their full and speedy recovery.”

Council leader: ‘Safety and wellbeing remain the highest priority’

Pembrokeshire County Council leader Cllr Jon Harvey said he was pleased the school would reopen on Monday and reassured families that support is available for any pupils affected.

“If there are any pupils who have been affected by the incident and require additional support, please ask teachers or staff who will be able to help with well‑being provision,” he said.

“I would once again like to thank staff and pupils at Milford Haven School for their immediate response to the incident. Thanks also go to the wider school family across the community for their support following this challenging period.”

Cllr Harvey stressed that the safety of pupils and staff remains the council’s top priority across all Pembrokeshire schools.

“Along with our partners we want to reassure the learners and parents of Milford Haven School, and all schools across Pembrokeshire, that the safety and well‑being of everyone is the highest priority. This, of course, includes our dedicated teachers and other school staff.”

‘Lockdowns are routinely rehearsed’

The council also emphasised that lockdown procedures are regularly practised so that staff and pupils know exactly what to do in the rare situations where they are required.

“As a Local Authority we will of course continue to support Milford Haven School in whatever way possible following this awful incident,” Cllr Harvey added.

Further updates are expected to be issued to parents ahead of the school’s reopening on Monday.

Teacher injured as Milford Haven school goes into lockdown after ‘weapon’ incident – 15‑year‑old arrested

Dyfed‑Powys Police were called to the school at around 3.20pm on Thursday after reports that a pupil had assaulted a teacher while brandishing a weapon. Officers confirmed the teacher’s injury was not a stab wound.

The school was immediately placed into lockdown as armed officers and emergency services rushed to the scene. The lockdown was lifted later in the afternoon, with all pupils confirmed safe and sent home.

Police: “Swift action safeguarded pupils and teachers”

In an update issued this morning, Superintendent Chris Neve said police were no longer on site but would maintain a visible presence in the area over the coming days.

“The teacher has now been discharged from hospital and is being supported by specialist officers,” he said. “All pupils at the location were safe, and all returned home unharmed. A 15‑year‑old boy has been arrested and remains in police custody as enquiries continue.”

He added that parents would receive further updates directly through the school’s app.

School to remain closed — support offered to pupils and staff

Pembrokeshire County Council leader Cllr Jon Harvey praised staff and pupils for their “swift and effective” response to the emergency.

“While the school will be closed to pupils tomorrow, any learners who require additional support are welcome to attend and there will also be support for staff on site,” he said.

“We’d like to reassure learners, parents and the wider community that all measures to ensure safety are being taken.”

The incident comes just weeks after the school was placed in special measures following an Estyn inspection, with the local authority pledging to work closely with the school to drive improvements.

First Minister: “Violence has no place in our schools”

First Minister Eluned Morgan said she was “deeply concerned” by the incident, having visited the school only last week.

“My thoughts are with the injured teacher, their family and the entire school community,” she said. “I want to pay tribute to the emergency services and school staff for their swift and professional response.”

She added that violence “of any kind” must not be tolerated in Welsh schools.

Local MP: “Deeply concerned”

Henry Tufnell, MP for the area, also issued a statement praising the response of staff and emergency services.

“My thoughts are with the teaching staff and the whole school community,” he said.

Mental health support available

Hywel Dda University Health Board urged anyone needing urgent mental health support to call 111 and press option 2, with 24/7 access to trained professionals.

Police patrols will remain in the Milford Haven area to reassure pupils, parents and residents as the investigation continues.

Pembrokeshire woman banned from keeping animals after dog found with shocking untreated facial wound

Dog found with infected wound and “skin hanging off”

The RSPCA said officers were called to a property in Milford Haven on 5 April last year after Dyfed‑Powys Police reported concerns about a dog in distress. When they arrived, the charity said they found Andy, a black labrador, with a large piece of skin hanging from an infected wound on the side of his mouth.

The charity said the injury may have been caused by a burst abscess and that Andy was also underweight when he was examined by vets.

Pictures of Andy’s injuries are too graphic to publish, but the RSPCA said the wound had a “strong smell of infection” and required urgent veterinary treatment.

Owner admits failing to meet dog’s needs

Andy’s owner, Candice Mottram, 32, from Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to failing to meet the needs of her dog under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. She was sentenced at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on 15 January.

As well as the 10‑year ban, Mottram received an 18‑week prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. She must complete 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and agreed to wear an alcohol tag for 120 days. The court also ordered her to pay £400 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge.

“A huge flap of skin hanging from his face”

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Paula Milton said the condition Andy was found in was deeply concerning.

“Andy had a huge flap of skin hanging from the left side of his face. There was a very strong smell of infection and where the skin had come off his mouth was bright red.”

The RSPCA said Mottram told officers the dog had last seen a vet two weeks earlier, but checks later revealed Andy had not been examined since 2021.

A vet who assessed him said Andy was in poor body condition, scoring two to three out of nine, with his ribs and pelvic bones visible.

Surgery and recovery

Andy underwent surgery to remove the damaged skin and treat the wound. He was then taken into RSPCA care, where he has since put on weight and recovered well.

RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben, who investigated the case, said the dog’s condition was avoidable.

“It was a shock to see how bad Andy’s facial wound was. The wound was obvious and the defendant had plenty of time to get the poor dog to a vets.”

He said Andy has been doing well in foster care and is expected to be ready for rehoming soon.

“Inexcusable and shocking”

The district judge who sentenced Mottram said her behaviour was “inexcusable and shocking”, noting that she had failed to seek help for an injury that caused prolonged suffering.

Andy is now recovering in a foster home, with the RSPCA saying he has healed well and is “a lovely dog” who deserves a fresh start.

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Couple jailed after 52 animals found living in ‘filthy’ home with some suffering

A joint operation by Dyfed‑Powys Police, the RSPCA and two vets uncovered the animals inside a house on Coombs Road on 29 December 2024. Officers found 29 dogs, 17 snakes, a Hermann’s tortoise, a leopard gecko and a monitor lizard. Two dead dogs and a dead snake were also discovered.

Swansea Crown Court heard that many of the animals were living in squalor, with some suffering from untreated injuries, emaciation and severe neglect. The RSPCA said the smell of dog faeces and urine inside the house was “overpowering”.

Jail sentences and long animal bans

Zoe Louise Graham, 32, was jailed for 18 months and banned from keeping animals for 15 years. Lee Peter Lock, 38, was jailed for 27 months and banned for 25 years.

Both had previously admitted multiple offences under the Animal Welfare Act, including causing unnecessary suffering to several French Bulldogs and failing to meet the basic needs of dozens of dogs and exotic animals.

The court heard the pair failed to seek veterinary treatment for serious conditions — including a ruptured rectum, untreated eye disease, chronic discomfort, ulcerations and severe emaciation. Several snakes were also found suffering from neglect, with some so underweight they later had to be euthanised.

‘Filthy conditions’ throughout the house

In a written statement, RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben said he was “hit by a strong smell of dog faeces and urine” as soon as he entered the property.

He described rooms strewn with rubbish, cages “in filthy soiled conditions”, mouldy food, and dogs living in cramped pens where faeces covered the floor.

Some French Bulldog puppies were only days old. Others were thin, dehydrated or living without bedding. A cream‑coloured French Bulldog in the kitchen had ribs “easily visible”.

In the back yard, two collie‑type dogs were found in mud and faeces with no clean area to stand. Inside a shed, officers found a container of green, dirty water and conditions so foul that Inspector Hogben said he “coughed and gagged”.

A dead Bulldog was found in a plastic dog bed in the shed, while another dead dog was discovered in a freezer. A vet later confirmed both had suffered — one from a ruptured rectum, the other from extreme emaciation.

Snakes, tortoise and gecko also neglected

Inside the living room, officers found multiple vivariums containing snakes in poor condition, with dirty water, soiled substrate and no enrichment. Some snakes were thin with their spines visible.

A tortoise and a gecko were found housed together in a single vivarium with no water, no UVB lighting and no proper environment. The gecko later died.

A monitor lizard was found in a plastic tray but was alert and had access to water.

Most animals now rehomed

In total, 17 live snakes, the tortoise, gecko and monitor lizard were seized and placed in specialist care. Several snakes later died or were euthanised on welfare grounds.

Most of the surviving dogs have since been rehomed by the RSPCA. Four dogs that remained in legal limbo during the court case have now been signed over and will also be rehomed.

Following sentencing, Inspector Hogben said: “It was a real team effort, and although not all the animals survived, it is great to see those who have been rehomed into loving homes.”

Sergeant Paul Roberts, of Dyfed‑Powys Police’s Rural Crime Team, said the case showed “excellent partnership working to target some of the most upsetting animal welfare offences.”

The court heard in mitigation that the pair had taken in homeless animals and the situation became “unmanageable”, but the judge ruled the level of suffering was severe and prolonged.

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Tributes paid to ‘fearless’ councillor and former Milford Mercury founder Mike Stoddart

Cllr Stoddart, who represented the Hakin ward for more than two decades, was widely regarded as one of the most outspoken and principled figures in local public life. A former journalist, he founded the Milford Mercury with his family in the 1990s, establishing a fiercely independent local newspaper that became a fixture of the town’s civic identity.

Alongside his wife, Cllr Vivien Stoddart, and daughter, Cllr Tessa Hodgson, he was part of a family deeply embedded in public service. All three went on to serve as county councillors, with Cllr Hodgson also holding the role of Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care.

“A fearless campaigner for truth and justice”

Across Pembrokeshire, tributes described Cllr Stoddart as a man of conviction, courage and unwavering commitment to accountability.

Milford Haven Town Council said he was a “well‑known figure around the town and community,” adding that both Mike and Vivien had served the area “for many years as public servants and previously in running the former Milford Mercury.”

Pembrokeshire County Council’s Presiding Member, Cllr Simon Hancock, said members were “shocked and deeply saddened” by the news.

“For 22 years Mike has been a highly effective member of the authority, passionate, fearless and always exercising the greatest scrutiny in holding authorities to account,” he said. “He was a man of high principles, and he will be sorely missed.”

A formidable presence in County Hall

Council Leader Cllr Jon Harvey said he was “deeply shocked” to learn of Cllr Stoddart’s passing.

“Mike was the prime example of what someone in local politics should be – working for and demanding better for his constituents,” he said.

“Mike was unashamedly forthright. He would argue his corner with conviction and always with facts on his side. He has kept me and many predecessors as Leader firmly on our toes. The chamber and Pembrokeshire as a whole will be much poorer for his loss.”

Cllr Tim Evans described him as a “big presence” whose knowledge and experience would be greatly missed.

A journalist at heart

Before entering politics, Cllr Stoddart helped establish the Milford & West Wales Mercury, a family‑run newspaper launched at a time when independent local journalism played a central role in community life. The title later changed ownership several times before ceasing print publication in 2020.

Even after leaving the newsroom, he continued to scrutinise local decision‑making through his well‑read Old Grumpy website, where he wrote candidly — and often critically — about council business, governance and public accountability. His writing was known for its directness, sharp analysis and refusal to shy away from controversy.

“I couldn’t have wished for a better friend”

Cllr Jacob Williams, a close friend and fellow blogger, said Cllr Stoddart’s influence stretched far beyond the council chamber.

“Mike leaves a formidable legacy, and was very highly respected,” he said. “Not just because he was a prominent councillor for over 20 years with a record of fearlessly campaigning for truth and justice, but also the range of things he did in his thoroughly fulfilled life.

“To say he was my mentor wouldn’t do him justice – I couldn’t have wished for a better friend, and I’ll miss him dearly.”

A lasting legacy

Cllr Stoddart’s career spanned journalism, business, community activism and more than two decades of public service. Whether admired or challenged, he was a figure whose voice was rarely ignored and whose presence shaped political life in Milford Haven and beyond.

He is survived by his wife Vivien, daughter Tessa, and extended family.

Swansea Bay News extends its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.

Milford Haven shortlisted for new UK munitions factory

The Government has committed to building at least six new factories across the UK, producing weapons components including propellants, explosives and pyrotechnics. Officials say the investment will restore onshore energetics production for the first time in nearly two decades.

Pembrokeshire on the shortlist

Potential sites include Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire, alongside Grangemouth in Scotland and Teesside in Northeast England. Other areas under consideration are Monmouthshire, Cumbria, Dumfriesshire, Ayrshire, Shropshire, Cheshire, Derbyshire, Essex, Worcestershire and Hampshire.

The Ministry of Defence has already commissioned feasibility studies and engineering design work, with construction expected to begin on the first site within the next year.

Jobs and investment

The Government says the programme will create at least 1,000 new jobs nationwide, with Defence Secretary John Healey describing the initiative as “building the factories of the future in Britain.”

He added:

“We are making defence an engine for growth, unambiguously backing British jobs and British skills as we make the UK better ready to fight and better able to deter future conflicts.”

Wider defence investment

Alongside the munitions programme, two new drone factories are opening this week — Helsing’s “resilience factory” in Plymouth and STARK’s new production line in Swindon.

The Government argues that the investment will not only strengthen the UK’s Armed Forces but also deliver a “defence dividend” in the form of skilled jobs and industrial growth across the nations and regions of the UK.

#armedForces #explosives #milfordHaven #ministryOfDefence #munitions #munitionsFactory #propellants #pyrotechnics #ukGovernment

Council officers visiting homes after bird flu case confirmed near Milford Haven

The Welsh Government’s Chief Veterinary Officer has declared a 3km protection zone and a wider 10km surveillance zone around the affected premises. These zones are designed to stop the spread of the disease, which has been identified as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.

Officers checking where birds are kept

Pembrokeshire County Council says its Public Protection officers will be visiting homes and businesses inside the 3km zone to find out where poultry or other captive birds are being kept. They will also be giving advice on the restrictions that now apply.

Signs are being put up on local roads to show where the zones begin and end. These will stay in place until restrictions are lifted.

The council says its staff are working alongside vets from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, who are leading the response.

Bird keepers urged to stay vigilant

Officials are urging anyone who keeps birds to be extra careful about biosecurity – the steps taken to stop disease spreading. This includes keeping housing, equipment, vehicles and clothing clean and making sure wild birds cannot contaminate feed or bedding.

Keepers are also reminded that from October 2024 it became a legal requirement to register all poultry and captive birds, no matter how small the flock. Registration means owners can receive direct updates about outbreaks and rules that affect them.

What to look out for

Bird keepers are asked to watch for signs of illness such as sudden deaths, breathing problems, or drops in food, water or egg production.

Anyone who suspects bird flu must report it immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency Wales on 0300 303 8268.

The council says the risk to the public is very low, and food safety agencies advise there is also a very low risk to consumers.

Public asked to report dead wild birds

Members of the public who don’t keep birds can still help. Dead wild waterfowl (such as swans, geese or ducks), gulls or birds of prey should be reported to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.

People are warned not to touch or pick up sick or dead birds. Sick or injured wild birds should instead be reported to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

Dead birds found on private land remain the responsibility of the landowner.

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