YouTube video has Milfordians fuming
IT’S been the talk of social media this weekend. A YouTube video created by Carmarthen- based Jason Thomas has become the centre of local debate after his walk-around film didn’t portray Milford Haven in a favourable light.
Thomas, who became an online sensation with his series “My Welsh Nan” – which had millions of followers – sought to chronicle the historical and modern facets of Wales’s largest port town.
His video, which was released on 5 March 2024, drew attention to the town’s storied past, but also mentioned the decline of the fishing docks and the closure of the local police station.
However, the portrayal has upset many residents, leading to an outpouring of both criticism of the film and steadfast support for Milford Haven.
Local community members have taken to social media platforms, notably Facebook, to voice their concerns and highlight the town’s positive aspects. John Hodge’s post on the “Pembrokeshire – I LOVE IT!” page marked the beginning of the backlash.
Hodge criticised Thomas for selectively showcasing areas that cast Milford Haven in a negative light, including the out-of-season paddling pool, while seemingly ignoring the town’s culinary and aesthetic appeal. He argued that the video did not do justice to the strides Milford Haven has made in recent years, nor did it acknowledge the efforts of local businesses and the community to revitalise the town.
Hodge’s sentiment was echoed by Anthony Jobson, who praised Milford Haven as a “thriving little town” in contrast to the perceived stagnation of neighbouring areas like Haverfordwest. Jobson, among others, highlighted the vibrant Marina, the array of local shops, and the burgeoning restaurant scene as testaments to Milford Haven’s resilience and growth.
The response from the community has been overwhelming, with many residents sharing their own experiences and insights into the town’s development. From the Harbourmaster’s esteemed dining to the collective efforts in litter picking and beautification projects, the townspeople are keen to showcase
Milford Haven’s transformation and communal spirit.
Critics of Thomas’s video, such as Rhian Bray, accused the YouTuber of deliberately focusing on negative aspects to garner attention. This practice, according to Bray and others, misrepresents the town and undermines the hard work of its residents to maintain and enhance its appeal.
The debate has spurred a wider discussion on the role of social media and individual narratives in shaping perceptions of local communities. While some argue that Thomas’s video offers a skewed perspective, others see it as a call to action for further investment and improvement in Milford Haven.
The community’s response to the video is a powerful reminder of the pride residents take in their town. Efforts to highlight the positive developments in Milford Haven, from its thriving Marina to the array of dining and entertainment options, reflect a collective commitment to overcoming challenges and celebrating local achievements.
In response to the criticism his video brought him, Jason Thomas said: “I visited the historic town with the hope of exploring its forts, but unfortunately, the tours were not available at the time.
“Nevertheless, I was captivated by the rich history and the warm hospitality of the locals. If people take the time to watch the video and read the bio on YouTube , they will see that it does not portray the town in a negative light. It’s disheartening to see how some individuals are quick to comment on social media posts without considering both sides of the story.
“I had planned to stay in the town, but due to train cancellations and the hotel’s failure to respond to my booking inquiry, I had to change my plans.
“The town has immense potential, and if there’s anyone to blame, it should be the County council, Town council, and landlords who charge exorbitant rents.
“It is my hope that people will shift their focus from social media comments and instead invest their energy in revitalising the town. I look forward to returning in the spring to explore the fort once again.”