Author: Rhys Gregory

Cryptocurrencies have rapidly become popular worldwide with consumers increasingly opting for simple yet secure methods of payment. It is essential for businesses to adapt to this change and provide more purchase options. In addition, several payment processors have upgraded their systems to accommodate cryptocurrency transactions, allowing merchants to accept cryptocurrency payments. As consumers push for it and several payment service providers respond, transaction volumes will only increase, and incumbent financial institutions may not be able to ignore it forever. One industry that is already quite accepting of crypto payments is the iGaming industry.  There is a symbiotic relationship between cryptocurrency…

In a live television broadcast from The Welfare Hall in Page’s hometown of Tylorstown, in the heart of the Rhondda Valleys, it was announced which players will be the first to represent Cymru on the world stage since 1958. Cymru centurions Wayne Hennessey, Chris Gunter and Gareth Bale all make the squad and they are three of eight players – alongside Ben Davies, Joe Allen, Aaron Ramsey, Jonny Williams and Danny Ward – who travel to a third major international tournament after UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Euro 2020. Meanwhile, Sorba Thomas, Mark Harris and Brennan Johnson are included in…

Persimmon Homes has appointed a new construction director in its East Wales region.   Andrew Hopkins, who has worked in the building industry for more than 40 years, joins Persimmon from Redrow where he served as both a build manager and construction director in the South West. Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the business having worked for other major housebuilders developers such as Barratt Developments (David Wilson Homes) and Linden Homes. During his career in the industry, he has developed numerous successful teams across Wales and the South West, and has been part of multiple NHBC Pride…

A Blackwood based manufacturer of free from celebration cakes has grown its turnover by 65% with support from a New Product Development affiliate who joined the company through a Welsh Government and EU backed project. Established in 2010, the Just Love Food Company sells its range of allergy-friendly celebration cakes to many of the UK’s biggest retailers, including Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Waitrose. Headed up by Mike Woods, he set up the business when he discovered how difficult it was to buy nut free celebration cakes for his children, who suffer from severe allergies. Mike Woods, chief executive of…

A Bridgend-based technology service provider for the marine sector has completed a management buyout (MBO) with a seven-figure package from the Development Bank and HSBC UK. Established in 2019, Avantis has used the equity investment from the Development Bank to complete the MBO from current owners Envoy and Partners with young entrepreneur Thomas David taking up the role of Chief Executive Officer. At 30 years of age, he is supported by Chairman Chris David, Chief Operating Officer Jack Jenkins and Chief Commercial Officer, Leon Solder. Working capital from HSBC UK will now be used to support Avantis’ growth plans, centred…

In these fast-paced times, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and allow stress to take over. International Stress Awareness Week 2022 (7-11 November) is a major annual event focusing on stress management and campaigning against the stigma associated with stress and mental health issues. To coincide with this, Ludlow Street Healthcare’s well-being expert is sharing some of her key recommendations when it comes to avoiding or dealing with stress at work. Gemma Hartnoll-Smith, Ludlow Street Healthcare’s well-being officer, works with new starters to ensure they settle in as well as running regular drop-in well-being sessions for all staff. Gemma said: “The…

With the festive season fast approaching, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend is thrilled to announce a new host of fan-favourite brands coming to the centre, just in time for the holidays.   A highly-anticipated launch for footwear connoisseurs, shoes and accessories brand Carvela has now officially opened their Bridgend Designer Outlet store. Located between Superdry and Eden, the new store houses designs that are sure to empower and inspire, offering unmatched comfort without compromising on style.   The iconic British brand Molton Brown, much loved for their fragrant bath and body products and luxurious skincare has now opened a festive pop-up at the…

Veterinary nurses will begin studying at Aberystwyth University in 2024 as Wales’ only School of Veterinary Science expands. Experienced veterinary nurse Emma Anscombe-Skirrow has been appointed as a new Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Nursing and will lead the work of establishing the new course. With over 10 years’ experience in education, she has been working with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in accrediting both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. The first veterinary nurse students are expected to begin their studies in September 2024. Aberystwyth University’s Emma Anscombe-Skirrow said: “It is extremely exciting to join the team at Aberystwyth. It is…

Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet will meet next week (15 November) to discuss the start of a consultation process about increasing the council tax charge for long term empty properties. The proposal would help to bring empty homes back into use to provide safe, secure and affordable homes and would also support the council to improve the sustainability of local communities. A long-term empty property is defined as a place of residence, which is both unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for a continuous period of at least one year. If approved, the plans would likely be in place for the 2023-24…

A mural found in Cardiff which was created by the mysterious Glaswegian street artist The Rebel Bear is being shown for three months at the Museum of Cardiff as part of the Protest exhibition. The artwork. which recently appeared on hoardings on Ferry Road by the Sports Village, was painted by the ‘Scottish Banksy’ in support of a disabled woman who lives in the city, and who is involved in a court dispute with a private, car-park operator. Like Banksy the Rebel Bear’s identity remains a mystery and they reportedly do their work while dressed in a bear costume. The…