Author: Rhys Gregory

Schools from across the county borough have won prizes in an annual competition set by the Welsh Heritage Schools Initiative – a scheme which encourages learners to take an interest in their Welsh heritage, as well as share their knowledge and understanding with their communities. Promoting the development of cross-curricular skills through the study of the history and culture of Wales, the competition this year has placed a spotlight on the quality work that has been produced in local schools. Ffaldau Primary School won the South Wales Institute of Engineers Educational Trust: The William Menelaus Prize for best project on…

Emergency services remain at the scene of a fire at a premises on Severn Road, Treforest Industrial Estate, Rhondda Cynon Taff. This follows reports of an explosion at a property shortly after 7.00pm, Wednesday evening. There are no reports of any serious injuries. However, one person remains unaccounted for. Residents living nearby have been advised to close all doors and windows while this incident is continuing. Businesses in the area are requested to implement their own business continuity plans to deal with the on-going road closures which will affect them throughout the night and into the morning. Significant road closures…

The final consultation on the Sustainable Farming Scheme  which will be the main support for farmers in Wales from 2025, aiming to make Welsh farmers world leaders in sustainable farming, is published today [Thursday, 14 December]. The Sustainable Farming Scheme aims to secure food production systems, keep farmers farming the land, safeguard the environment, and address the urgent call of the climate and nature emergency. The Scheme will support farmers to become more efficient and resilient, enabling them to respond to changing consumer demands and compete in a decarbonising global economy. The proposals have been shaped by feedback received from…

Living in remote parts of Wales can be challenging. Access to basic facilities, such as a shop or doctors’ surgery, can be restricted, and some things people take for granted can be a chore for people. Indeed, nearly 20% of the Welsh population live in a community of fewer than 1,500 people. Those areas are often not served by some of the most basic outlets, such as opticians. When you combine that with the fact that 111,000 people are living in Wales with sight loss, a figure expected to double by 2050, it presents a significant problem. With that in mind,…

As the digital marketing world constantly evolves, staying ahead with innovative strategies is crucial for your business’s success. One trend gaining momentum is the integration of animation into digital marketing strategies. This approach offers a fresh and engaging way to connect with your audience, making your message stand out in a crowded online space. Whether you are looking to simplify complex ideas or add a creative flair to your marketing campaigns, animation can be a powerful tool in your arsenal. In this post, we will explore how animation is transforming the marketing landscape and how you can effectively incorporate it…

Dear Editor, Christmas can be challenging for many of us, but for families experiencing dying, death or bereavement it can often feel impossible. People who are grieving may find the festive season particularly tough and emotionally draining, as that’s when we often miss our loved ones the most. Many families may also be facing the last Christmas with a loved one or the first without them, and not know where to turn to help get them through the season. Marie Curie is here for anyone with an illness they’re likely to die from, and those close to them. Our free…

Robertsons Solicitors, a leading Welsh law firm, has recently announced the promotion of four new Directors, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s over 100 year history. Helen Barry, recognised for her expertise in residential conveyancing, and Hannah Magee, distinguished for her reputation in family law, have been promoted to Director roles, reflecting their dedication to client service. Joining them are William Baird, promoted to the position of Litigation Director, and Tom Sidford, appointed as Commercial Property Director, both acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to the firm’s success. Director, Chris Barber commented, “We are thrilled to see the growth and…

The families of the three teenage men who died following a road traffic collision which happened at around 7.00pm on Monday December 11, 2023, have paid the following tributes to them. They are: Callum Griffiths, 19, from Porth Jesse Owen, 18, from Tonypandy Morgan Smith, 18, from Tonypandy The family of Jesse Owen, 18, from Penygraig, Rhondda Cynon Taff, said: “Jesse had a presence that would light up any room. He was loved by all who had the honour of knowing him. He was the most loving, happy kind, calm and beautiful soul. He would do absolutely anything for anyone.…

Thomas Carroll Group, the independent insurance, risk and wealth management group, has handed over the reins to its employees as part of an Employee Ownership Trust, turning it into one of the biggest Employee-Owned businesses in Wales. The Caerphilly-based company was established in 1972 by Evan Thomas and Terry Carroll when they were given the chance to buy a commercial account from another broker, and Thomas Carroll was born. After various acquisitions, multiple office moves and additional openings, more than 50 years later Evan’s son and current CEO of the Group, Rhys Thomas, has spearheaded the company’s latest move into…

Children in schools across Wales have been enjoying a new School Activity Ideas Pack created by the newly formed Food & Drink Skills Wales project. The pack, which encourages pupils to examine environmental factors affecting our food chains, was launched as part of Wales Climate Week(December 4-8). This year’s Wales Climate Week focussed on the theme of “fairness” in the context of climate change, examining its disproportionate effect on people and places. It has included a wide range of events running throughout the week, both online and in-person. The week provided the opportunity to promote the positive work and sustainability credentials…