Multiple offences committed while cockle bed was closed to protect stocks
THREE men have appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court after illegally fishing for cockles from a closed cockle bed at the Three Rivers Cockle Fishery.
The court heard that Richard William Edwards, 44, of Fernhill Road, Gorseinon, Swansea, admitted fishing for or taking cockles from a closed bed on May 21, 2025. The prohibition was in force under the Cockle Fishing Management and Permitting (Specified Area) (Wales) Order 2024.
Magistrates fined Mr Edwards £1,000 and ordered him to pay a £400 victim services surcharge and £400 in prosecution costs. A collection order was made, with payment due by March 5. His guilty plea was taken into account when sentence was imposed.
Brogan Morgan Phillips, 19, of Harddfan, Bryn, Llanelli, also pleaded guilty to fishing for cockles from the same closed bed on May 21, 2025. For that offence, he was fined £2,000 and ordered to pay a £1,200 victim services surcharge and £1,000 in prosecution costs.
The court also heard that Mr Phillips admitted a further offence at the same location on June 5, 2025. For that offence, magistrates imposed an additional fine of £1,000. A collection order was made, with a total outstanding balance of £5,200 to be paid by instalments.
Ethan Jay Thomas, 19, of Station Road, Bynea, Llanelli, pleaded guilty to fishing for cockles from the closed bed on May 21, 2025. Sentencing for that offence was adjourned.
Mr Thomas denied a second charge relating to an alleged offence on June 5, 2025. That matter was adjourned until March 19, when the case will return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for trial. Sentencing in relation to the offence already admitted will also be considered at that hearing.
