Author: Rhys Gregory

Following discussions between Torfaen Council, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council the Welsh Local Government Association, discussions are ongoing regarding the appointment of a joint Chief Executive (CEO) responsible for Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent. Conversations between the councils have been ongoing to explore opportunities that could arise from working more closely together which now includes a proposal for a single CEO to work across both councils, initially for a defined period, with a mandate to: seek efficiencies by optimising resources that can work at scale; increase innovation and creativity; and share best practice. Damien McCann, Blaenau Gwent’s current CEO is due…

Brand new trains have been launched on the Ebbw Vale line from this week (Monday 22 April) offering customers a more comfortable and reliable experience. Built in Newport, the Class 197 trains have started to enter service on mainline routes around Wales and the Borders. They will run between Ebbw Vale and Cardiff Central, as well as Newport, following the introduction of brand-new services on the line earlier this year. The Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates said: “This is great news. These trains are modern and comfortable and provide a much-improved experience for passengers. This is another positive step…

A South Wales Heating engineer has been fined £2,000, made to pay compensation to a Merthyr customer and costs to Merthyr Tydfil CBC after pleading guilty to Unfair trading in a case brought by Merthyr Tydfil CBC Trading Standards. Mr Dafydd Emery appeared before the Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court on 17th April 2024 for 3 offences under the Consumer Protections for Unfair Trading Regulations including misleading the consumer in relation to his HETAS registration, Emery who is a director of Woodland Fuels Ltd and Stoves World Ltd, pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him. Emery, of Tonypandy, was ordered…

The cash offer is part of the Council efforts to encourage more use of reusable nappies and will also support the national ‘Reusable Nappy Week’ which runs between 22 – 28 April. The campaign seeks to encourage parents to make the switch from disposable nappies, helping them to save money and the environment. An estimated 3.6 billion nappies are thrown away in the UK each year, costing Local Authorities over £140 million each year for collection and disposal. Parents in Swansea can find out more about the reusable nappies when pop-up information stalls are held at local libraries during the…

Fast-growth advertising agency, Rebel Lion, has secured a six-figure equity injection from the Development Bank of Wales. This strategic investment will fuel the Welsh agency’s growth plans, helping to facilitate an impressive 300% increase in revenue – allowing the group to reach a seven-figure turnover in only its second year of trading.The equity investment from the Development Bank of Wales will allow Rebel Lion to further develop two innovative offerings. The first, their Growth Service, will see the Cardiff agency act as an external sales and marketing division for clients in need of scalability. The second is a proprietary media and…

When it comes to maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of brickwork and interior masonry, choosing the right brick cleaner is paramount. This guide delves into the essential considerations, practical strategies, and expert tips to help you select the best brick cleaning products used by professionals. From understanding various brick surfaces to addressing common problems such as efflorescence and algae, we cover everything you need to ensure your brick surfaces remain in pristine condition. What to Consider When Choosing a Brick Cleaner for Brickwork and Masonry Understanding the Different Types of Brick Surfaces Brick surfaces vary widely, from porous and…

Long-term care costs have become a growing concern for families across the globe. With aging populations and increasing life expectancies, the need for long-term care services is on the rise. However, the cost of these services can be staggering, leaving families struggling to afford the care their loved ones need. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of the cost of long term care on families and provide some tips on how to prepare for these expenses. Understanding Long-Term Care Before diving into the costs associated with long-term care, it’s essential to understand what long-term care entails. Long-term care refers…

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, businesses are constantly seeking new ways to stay ahead in the highly competitive market. In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is no longer enough; companies must now also consider utilizing custom software solutions to gain an edge over their competitors. With personalized and tailored software, businesses can streamline processes, increase efficiency, and stand out among the sea of similar products and services. This blog post will delve into the benefits of custom software for businesses and how it can help your company thrive in today’s cut-throat business landscape.…

Portugal has had its share of hype, first with its natural beauty and quality of life and now with its charming visa programs. As per the US News and World Report, “Protugal’s appeal goes beyond its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It extends to everyday life, where the friendliness of its people and the ease of acclimatization make the country an exceptional choice for those looking for a new home away from home.”  The Portugal Golden Visa has also made its way to the top, ranking 10th for visa-free travel and 9th for quality of life. So, you see,…

In the digital age, you can do just about anything over the Internet, which, of course, includes online gambling. In fact, online casinos and iGaming sites have seen a major rise in popularity lately. It’s become a favourite pastime for people who weren’t previously gamblers. That’s why it’s essential to make sure you know how to stay safe when gambling online. After all, online platforms are different than in-person casinos in so many ways. You really need to watch your back. So, in this article, we’ll go over all you need to keep in mind when gambling online in 2024…