A local Senedd Member thanked people and groups from across Pembrokeshire who came together to take a stand on violence against women.

Joyce Watson MS worked with the Women’s Institute, Soroptimists and other groups and bodies to arrange an event in Haverfordwest town centre on Saturday 26 November,

A candlelight vigil walked through the town centre to remember the victims of domestic violence, then heard a range of speakers in the HaverHub, Quay Street, Haverfordwest.

Joyce Watson MS said:

“I must thank all involved who made this event such a success. It was important that people came together to take a stand on violence against women.

“This was the first gathering of its sort in Haverfordwest, and I was pleased that so many organisations and individuals supported it, despite the weather.”

The Haverfordwest vigil was attended by Dyfed Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, WI, Soroptimists, Action for Children, Men’s Sheds, Street Pastors, and other organisations and individuals. Messages of support were read from Paul Davies MS, Cefin Campbell MS and Jane Dodds MS.

Mrs Watson “Sadly, violence against women still affects too many people and impacts too many families. Coming together like this shows support for those suffering violence, remembers victims, and will help to change attitudes and behaviour for the future.

“Around White Ribbon Day (25 November) people join in the simple promise to ‘Never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.’

“I urge you all to embrace this pledge and speak out for those denied a voice.”

Mrs Watson has worked with the Women’s Institute for ten years on the Not in my Name campaign, recruiting male ambassadors to make the White Ribbon promise.

Joyce Watson MS hosts an annual vigil and other events at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay with the WI. She introduced White Ribbon campaigning to Wales in her previous role 18 years ago and has organised many events across Wales including services in St David’s Cathedral and Brecon Cathedral. She established the annual Carmarthen White Ribbon event.