Jenny Algieri

Women and girls aged seven and over in Pembrokeshire will be able to attend Strike Back Self Defence sessions at CrossFit Pembrokeshire in Haverfordwest on August 15 and 22. Local franchisee Kirsty Knight says the classes emphasize awareness, avoidance, de-escalation, confident communication and escape techniques rather than fighting. Sessions can be adapted for different ages, abilities and experience levels, with the goal of helping participants trust their instincts, set boundaries and feel more confident in potentially dangerous situations.

Hubberston and Hakin Community Centre in Milford Haven has been selected as one of 200 UK locations for Hachette UK’s Raising Readers campaign. It will receive £1,000 worth of children’s books and furniture for a permanent Book Nook, launching at the centre’s family fun day on July 25. Trustee Peter Llewellyn hopes the space will encourage families, schools, play groups and young carers—including children with limited time for reading—to read together in an informal setting outside a library.

Haverfordwest fitness coach Amy Abraham is launching a women-only “Lift Like a Girl” workshop through Tidal Fitness on July 25. The session will teach participants how to safely perform squats, bench presses and deadlifts in a smaller, less intimidating setting, with adapted exercises and workout plans provided. Abraham aims to help women move beyond cardio equipment, build strength and confidence, and reduce the pressure traditionally placed on weight loss and calorie restriction. She plans to hold additional workshops in the future.

Nearly 2,000 Pembrokeshire primary pupils are receiving free water safety training through the charity Forever 11, founded in memory of Zac Thompson. The programme has expanded to 13 schools and now includes younger year groups, offering kayaking, paddleboarding and water safety instruction supported by local providers. Feedback from families and schools has been strongly positive, and the charity aims to further expand its reach, with long‑term plans for every primary child in Pembrokeshire to receive essential water safety education.