Latest news with #GaynorJames
South Wales Argus
07-07-2025
- Politics
- South Wales Argus
Nick Thomas-Symonds MP on importance of Armed Forces
Torfaen has made a huge contribution to our Armed Forces, so it's important for me to give my thanks to the forces community locally. In a reminder of the ongoing battle for freedom, we were joined by Ukrainian defence minister Rustem Umerov, as well as representatives of our military. I was pleased to see this event mirrored with a flag raising in Pontypool. Particular thanks should go to Cllr Gaynor James, who is a passionate and energetic Armed Forces champion. That backing has led to Torfaen leading the way and taking steps other councils have since followed, like on backdating housing applications to help Armed Forces families, or on its guaranteed interview scheme for veterans. We owe so much to those who have served in defence of our nation and the freedoms we enjoy. I enjoyed welcoming Cwmffrwdoer Primary School on their recent visit to Parliament. It was a pleasure to help show the pupils around and speak to them about the work that MPs do. They asked some great questions, and I hope their visit helped bring to life the work they are doing back in school. The pupils were a credit to the school and to their parents. If any other schools would like a tour, please get in touch and my office will help arrange it. It is always a privilege to lead the World Heritage Day parade in my home town of Blaenavon. This year was particularly special, as we celebrated the 25th anniversary of Blaenavon's industrial landscape securing World Heritage Status. A big thank you to the volunteers who organised the day and to everyone who came out to support the event. Antisocial behaviour and illegal off-road biking are a blight on our communities in Torfaen. That's why I'm so supportive of Labour's announcement that £200million will be used to recruit 13,000 neighbourhood police officers and PCSOs. The first phase of this will include 40 officers, 13 PCSOs and 7 Special Constables for Gwent – all working to improve neighbourhood policing and making our streets safer.
South Wales Argus
24-06-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Members of Pontypool armed forces honoured with flag raising event
A flag raising ceremony to commemorate and pay respects to Torfaen locals in the armed forces was held outside Pontypool Civic Centre. The ceremony took place on June 23 and was part of the Torfaen's Armed Forces Week events. Armed Forces week is a national event running from June 22 to June 28. Gaynor James with Dave Poulsom Standard Bearer for royal British Legion Pontypool Branch at a flag raising ceremony for Armed Forces Week (Image: Gaynor James) The event is a chance to show support for people who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets. The event took take place at 9:30am and was attended by local dignitaries and veterans. Speaking at the event councillor Gaynor James Armed Forces Champion read aloud the following: 'Unlike the opportunities we're given to mourn out fallen soldiers, this is a time we show appreciation and support for our Armed Forces personnel, past present and future and the work that goes into our Armed Forces Community.' Gaynor James with Anthony Hunt leader of Torfaen Council at a flag raising ceremony for Armed Forces Week (Image: Gaynor James) According to the Welsh Government approximately 3,230 military and civilian personnel are based in Wales, with the Army having the largest presence at over 1,400 personnel. In addition, over 115,000 people in Wales reported having previously served in the armed forces, representing about 4.5% of the Welsh population aged 16 and older. The event was held ahead of Armed Forces Day which is taking place on June 28. More information about Armed Forces Day in Gwent can be found here.
South Wales Argus
30-04-2025
- South Wales Argus
Blackwood man charged after death of 84-year-old woman
Andrew Perry, 55, is accused of causing the death by dangerous driving of Gaynor James on Commercial Street, Pengam, Blackwood. The defendant was driving a Ford Focus car at the time of the incident at around 1.05pm on Thursday, February 22 last year. He did not enter a plea after appearing at Newport Magistrates' Court. The case was committed to the crown court on May 30. Perry, of Greenmeadow Bungalows, Glan-Y-Nant, Blackwood was granted unconditional bail.
