Author: Rhys Gregory

A brief spell of very windy conditions is likely through Wednesday evening and night, bringing the chance of some disruption. During Wednesday evening and night, a further spell of very strong southwesterly winds is expected to sweep east to produce gusts of 50 to 60 mph. There is also the potential for gusts of around 70-75 mph near exposed coasts and over high ground. Heavy, squally showers will accompany these strong winds. The winds will ease later in the night. What should I do? Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home…

New research from Lloyds Bank has found that two fifths (42%) of firms in Wales are making New Year’s resolutions to improve their productivity, as businesses signal confidence in more positive macroeconomic conditions ahead. This optimism about the future comes after 2023 being a tough year for businesses, as they faced into high inflation and a sluggish economy. The data revealed the top three areas where firms are focusing their attention as they head into the new year, with half (50%) concentrating on developing their business, nearly a third (29%) focusing on investing in energy efficiency measures, and more than…

Restoration work on the Seven Arches landscape in Cymmer has transformed a once unloved, overgrown, and inaccessible piece of land into a thriving communal space. Thanks to funding from several local wind farms (Pen y Cymoedd, Ffynnon Oer, Llynfi Afan) a group of volunteers from Cymmer have revived the 40 acres of land surrounding the historic Seven Arches viaduct. Much of the land had become neglected over many years. By carrying out essential maintenance work the group has been able to reinstate pathways and open-up community areas. Progress is now underway to re-establish a historic pond and revive the presence…

He was found in the Nantyglo area and was taken into RSPCA care on Tuesday 19 December. The four/five month colt was found in a poor condition and was not microchipped – so an owner had not been located. RSPCA inspector Christine McNeil said: “Unfortunately as he is not chipped we have not found an owner and we are now hoping an appeal for information may be able to help with our enquiries. “If anyone has any first-hand information that will help our enquiries please do get in touch and call us via 0300 123 8018, quoting 1197723.” The foal…

We’re approaching that time of year when people who usually prefer to be dry and warm decide to run headlong into the sea – possibly wearing fancy dress. And many people make their New Year dip the beginning of a longer commitment. For The Bluetits Chill Swimmers, New Year is one of the peak times for welcoming new members. “I think it’s a ‘New Year, new me thing,’ says Sian Richardson, who founded the global movement in Pembrokeshire in 2014. “People reach the other side of Christmas and start thinking about getting fitter. Some people will join a gym –…

South Caernarfon Creameries is celebrating a bumper year of awards after winning a grand total of 97 awards this year, their best ever year with an increase of 28%. Since launching their new Dragon Cheddar Everyday Everyway television advert in May and breaking into the lucrative US dairy market in June, Wales’s leading farmer owned dairy co-operative has gone from strength to strength. Countless awards were gained at the International Cheese Awards, Cheshire Show, Yorkshire Show, Mid Somerset and the Royal Welsh Show. Out of a total of 97 awards, 40 were gold and Dragon Handcrafted Ruby won Supreme Champion…

The Fire Brigades Union has warned that a government plan to deregulate furniture regulations could cost dozens of lives every year. As shoppers gather for Boxing Day sales on sofas and other furniture, the union is warning that unless the ministers change course, decades of safety regulations could be lost. Under the current rules – introduced as the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 – manufacturers must submit furniture to independent testing on flammability. The regulations are estimated to have saved between 50 and 70 lives per year. But now the Westminster government has proposed scrapping these rules in favour…

With many people planning to see in the New Year with fireworks, Dogs Trust Bridgend and Dogs Trust Cardiff are issuing advice to help owners prepare their pets who might be scared by the unexpected bangs and blasts of fireworks as the clock strikes midnight on December 31st. Angela Wetherall, Rehoming Centre Manager (Wales) said: “Fear of fireworks is worryingly common in dogs of all ages, and it can have a significant impact on their wellbeing and affect dogs at any time in their lives. “There are lots of things dog owners can do to help make fireworks less stressful…

A much-loved performance club for children in Tredegar is the latest recipient of Persimmon Homes’ Community Champions scheme. The five-star builder’s East Wales business donated £1,000 to Kidz R Us – a community enterprise that hosts activities for more than 500 children in a disadvantaged area every week – in the week before Christmas, and the day before the club’s Christmas show. The volunteer-led, non-profit, self-funding organisation was founded by Diane Dann in 2002 when she was approached by a few children requesting her to organise dance classes and help them develop their skills in stage performances. Diane agreed and…

A care home in Cardiff was joined by a local school to help kick-start the Christmas festivities – with the help of a very special guest. Residents at Care UK’s Llys Herbert, on Ty-Draw Road, were paid a special visit from pupils at Llysfaen Primary School for a morning of Christmas fun so exciting that even Santa took a few hours off to come along. The children and residents were given the full VIP experience when they were invited to dine with Santa, enjoying a delicious festive breakfast of Christmas tree-shaped pancakes complete with berry ‘baubles’, specially made by the…