Author: Rhys Gregory

Full casting for the National Theatre’s production of The Ocean at the End of the Lane has been announced today, with screen and stage actor Charlie Brooks joining the previously announced cast as Ursula and Jasmeen James joining as understudy. Charlie is best known for being a series regular in BBC’s EastEnders, and will be part of the cast at Wales Millennium Centre in 2023. They join Daniel Cornish (alternate Boy), Trevor Fox (Dad), Emma-Jane Goodwin (understudy), Paolo Guidi (ensemble), Millie Hikasa (Lettie Hempstock), Lewis Howard (understudy), Kemi-Bo Jacobs (Ginnie Hempstock), Ronnie Lee (ensemble), Aimee McGoldrick (ensemble), Laurie Ogden (Sis),…

Pontypool-born Eben Upton, founder and CEO of Raspberry Pi, was recognised for his contribution to STEM alongside 12 winners at the 2022 Wales STEM Awards on Thursday 27th October. The founder of the small single-board computer, which is manufactured in SONY UK TEC and has sold close to 50 million devices worldwide, was announced winner of the Outstanding Contribution to STEM award. Hosted by broadcaster Sian Lloyd, the awards ceremony, which took place at Cardiff’s Mercure Hotel, recognised the innovative STEM work being undertaken in Wales, addressing the diversity gap and skills shortage, and inspiring and raising the aspirations of…

The Welsh language has been introduced to new groups, businesses, and families across Anglesey thanks to the UK Community Renewal Fund. Menter Iaith Môn was eager to extend beyond its usual network to increase the use of the Welsh language – the funding has allowed them to do exactly that. Up to 60 community groups and businesses have received support thanks to the investment, and activities have been held for children, young people, and Welsh learners in different areas to increase interest and to promote the language. Looking back on the scheme’s successes Elen Hughes, chief officer at Menter Iaith…

Cardiff Bus is offering travel advice to customers ahead of Halloween and Bonfire night. The bus operator is alerting customers to service diversions that will come into effect from 17:00 on Monday 31st October for Halloween and Saturday 5th November for Bonfire Night. These diversions will be put in place for the safety of both customers and staff, in collaboration with South Wales Police. Route alterations will apply to services 1, 2, 11, 13, 44, 45, 49, 50 on both days, and on route 65A on the 31st. Full information on the route diversions can be viewed on cardiffbus.com Commercial…

Disney On Ice presents Discover The Magic is bringing a new voyage to families through dynamic moments both on ice and in the air, taking fans on its most adventurous journey yet. Get ready for the Disney On Ice magic to make its way to the Cardiff International Arena this Spring, with enchanting stories and exhilarating production numbers, providing the perfect day out for all the family. The production will be visiting Cardiff’s International Arena from 23rd February to 26th February 2023. Priority Customers can take advantage of the pre-sale from the 28th October. Get the best seats by heading…

Inspiring and humbling tales of bravery, creativity, selflessness and dedication were once again in abundance as the #TeamSWPAwards returned last night. Held at Cardiff’s city Hall, the awards – which are usually held annually, but have been hosted twice this year due to postponement as the result of the pandemic – recognise officers, staff, volunteers and partners who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the South Wales Police and the communities we serve. This year’s winners – chosen by Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan and Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael – are: Learner of the Year…

AN ACCLAIMED pet retailer has invested more than £250,000 in powering ahead with its net-zero vision. PetPlace has installed up to 450 solar panels at its stores in Abergele and Llangefni, with Ruthin, Mold and Gledrid, Oswestry, set to follow. The business has also introduced electric charging points at Gledrid, Llangefni and its Kinmel Bay headquarters – with Mold and Abergele next to have them – they now have electric rather than gas forklift vehicles, electric company cars and digital display screens, which they hope will help towards the reduction of printed material. Owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh enlisted…

Pop chart-topper George Ezra is heading to Chepstow Racecourse for an exclusive weekend of live music next summer. The BRIT Award-winning and multi-platinum selling artist – whose latest album Gold Rush Kid topped the charts on its release in June – will play the venue on Sunday, July 2, as the final night in a weekend of special gigs. An acclaimed live performer, George is the first headline act announced for a weekend of live music at the prestigious Welsh course – with a further announcement to come on Monday, October 31. George’s summertime show at Chepstow follows his sell-out…

Father Christmas will return to Swansea this year for his traditional parade that heralds the start of the festive season. The city centre procession, organised by Swansea Council, will take place on Sunday 20 November – five weeks before the big day itself. The parade will set off from Victoria Road at around 5pm before making its way through the city centre to The Kingsway. Council cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said: “Christmas is one of the most important times of year for the city centre. “Santa’s arrival in the parade to switch on the lights is just the right kind…

Swansea Council is making plans to relocate one of its Park & Ride sites at Landore. The current site is earmarked for redevelopment as part of the ongoing Hafod Copper Works regeneration programme, which has already seen part of the historic site developed into a new site for the famous Penderyn Distillery company. A public consultation has now opened, seeking the views of park and ride users, so that a new site can meet the needs of future travellers. Two alternative sites within Swansea Vale are in the running for the relocation of the park and ride site. Both potential…