Grieving Families Speak Out as Former Officer Receives 10-Year Sentence for Paddleboarding Deaths

27-04-2025


In a case that has gripped the nation, former police officer Nerys Bethan Lloyd has been sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for her role in the tragic deaths of four paddleboarders on the River Cleddau in Haverfordwest, south-west Wales. The incident, which occurred in October 2021, has been described as a preventable tragedy, with the court hearing how Lloyd, the owner and sole director of Salty Dog Co Ltd, failed to ensure the safety of the participants on the stand-up paddleboarding tour.

The victims, Paul O'Dwyer, 42, Andrea Powell, 41, Morgan Rogers, 24, and Nicola Wheatley, 40, lost their lives after being swept over a weir that Lloyd had failed to warn them about. The court was told that there were no safety briefings, the participants were not equipped with the correct type of leash for their boards, and there was no discussion of the hazardous tidal river conditions or the presence of the weir. Mrs Justice Stacey, presiding over the case at Swansea Crown Court, emphasized the gravity of Lloyd's negligence, stating that the victims were 'cut off in their prime.'

During the sentencing, it was revealed that Lloyd had pleaded guilty to four counts of gross negligence manslaughter and one offence under the Health and Safety at Work Act. The prosecution highlighted the lack of qualifications held by Lloyd and Mr. O'Dwyer, who assisted as an instructor, and the 'real potential for danger' on the stretch of river where the tragedy unfolded. Lloyd's defense read a statement in which she expressed her remorse and took full responsibility for the incident, acknowledging the unbearable pain caused to the families of the victims.

The aftermath of the incident has left the families of the victims grappling with an unimaginable loss. Theresa Hall, the mother of Morgan Rogers, spoke outside the court, sharing her grief and the void left by her daughter's death. Hall's poignant words underscored the lasting impact of the tragedy on the families involved, as they continue to seek closure and justice for their loved ones. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of negligence and the importance of adhering to safety protocols in outdoor activities.

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Nothing's Headphone (1) Enters the Market with a Bang: A Blend of Design and Technology

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Nothing has officially launched its first over-ear headphones, the Headphone (1), marking a significant entry into the audio segment. Priced at £299/$299/€299, these headphones are available in black or white, with pre-orders starting on July 4. The Headphone (1) stands out with its unique transparent design, aluminum accents, and CNC components, offering a fresh aesthetic in a market saturated with similar-looking gadgets.

In collaboration with KEF, Nothing has equipped the Headphone (1) with 40mm drivers, spatial audio, and head tracking technology, promising an immersive sound experience. The headphones also feature adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) and a mic system trained on 28 million noise scenarios, ensuring clear calls and music playback in various environments. With up to 35 hours of playback on a full charge and a quick charge feature that provides over two hours of juice in just five minutes, the Headphone (1) is designed for both audiophiles and casual listeners.

Breaking away from the norm, Nothing has opted for physical roller, paddle, and button controls instead of touch controls, aiming to provide a more satisfying and precise user experience. The Nothing X app further enhances the listening experience with an 8-band EQ and a 'Channel Hop' feature for easy switching between audio apps. Additionally, the headphones support Bluetooth 5.3 and dual-device pairing, making them versatile for use across different devices.

The Headphone (1) is not just about looks and sound; it's about creating a unique identity in the crowded audio market. With its distinctive design, advanced features, and user-friendly controls, Nothing's latest offering is poised to make a significant impact. Whether it's the immersive audio experience, the adaptive ANC, or the innovative controls, the Headphone (1) is a testament to Nothing's commitment to redefining the audio landscape.