Author: Rhys Gregory

Digital tech is now woven into the punter’s experience, showing its influence, especially in places where reaching a track isn’t exactly easy. Rural Wales, with its scattered villages and long distances between racecourses, has felt the impact of mobile apps, smarter data, and live event streaming. Thanks to these tools, people who might have once watched from the sidelines, if at all, are taking part from their own living rooms. According to the 2023 Racing Guide report, about 89% of UK punters now gamble online sometimes, up from 57% in 2017. Smartphones have flattened some serious barriers, pulling Welsh residents…

Business growth is rarely linear. As companies expand, they often experience uneven cash flow caused by seasonal demand, changing customer behaviour, or the need to invest ahead of revenue. This is why solutions such as a cash advance for merchants have become increasingly relevant for businesses that need funding to reflect how they actually trade. Even profitable companies can face short-term funding gaps when expenses arrive before income does. Traditional banking products are not always designed to adapt to these realities. Many funding options rely on fixed repayments and rigid terms that remain the same regardless of how a business…

Do you want predictability or flexibility? Fixed-rate personal loans typically give you a stable payment schedule you can plan around, while variable-rate borrowing (most commonly through lines of credit) can offer convenience and sometimes lower starting costs, but with less certainty as rates change. Either option can be sensible; the key is matching the product to the purpose and your risk tolerance. Just as importantly, the lender experience matters. Many Canadians value relationship-based guidance, especially when comparing products with different rate structures. If you’re discussing a personal loan in Canada, Innovation CU is an example of the kind of credit-union…

Reform UK has appointed Dan Thomas as its new leader in Wales, marking a significant moment for the party ahead of this year’s Senedd elections. The announcement comes alongside the defection of Brecon and Radnorshire Senedd member Evans to Reform UK, a move that doubles the party’s representation in the Welsh Parliament and signals growing confidence among its supporters. Thomas, who grew up in Blackwood and previously served as leader of Barnet Council until 2022, takes over the Welsh leadership following the jailing of the party’s former figurehead for bribery. Reform UK said the appointment represents a fresh start and…

An 18-year-old man has admitted to killing his mother in a park in Prestatyn last year. On the morning of 24 October 2025, the body of Angela Shellis, 45, was found in undergrowth by a member of the public in the Morfa area of the town. Based on the circumstances of her death, a murder investigation was immediately launched by North Wales Police detectives. Tristan Thomas Roberts, of Coniston Drive, Prestatyn, was quickly identified as a suspect and he was subsequently arrested at his home address. Four days later, on 28 October, he was charged with murder. Roberts appeared at…

Police have arrested a 15 year old boy on suspicion of attempted murder after a teacher was assaulted at Milford Haven Comprehensive School on Thursday afternoon. Dyfed Powys Police confirmed officers were called to the school at around 3.20pm following reports that a pupil had attacked a member of staff while brandishing a weapon. A temporary lockdown was put in place at the school as a precaution, but this has now been lifted. Police said all pupils at the site were safe and most had since gone home. Officers remain at the school while enquiries continue. Superintendent Chris Neve of…

Wrexham has officially submitted its Expression of Interest (EoI) to the Department for Culture, Media & Sport for UK City of Culture 2029. This important part of the bidding phase is an exciting moment in the process and means Wrexham are a step closer towards securing the title. UK City of Culture is a prestigious title that brings vital investment for regeneration while showcasing the story of a place through an inspiring, engaging and wide-ranging cultural programme. Winning the title boasts a guaranteed £10 million from the UK Government, which can help attract investment, boost tourism and improve access to…

Get Jerky Rally North Wales has launched its 2026 event this week, announcing a new look format for the Welshpool-based rally on March 28. After being forced to cancel in 2025 due to the effects of Storm Darragh in the region’s forests, the popular event will return with a re-vamped route and a host of premier rally championships using it as a counting round of their respective series. Organised by Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire Car Club, the event continues to enjoy support from title sponsor Get Jerky, which ensures the rally remains in Welshpool, offering a perfect base and service…

Popular independent brunch spot Park Side Kitchen is expanding to include a brand-new Bakery & Deli at the Amber Vista development in Lakeside. The move follows the decision that Ballers Pizza – situated next door – will not reopen its restaurant doors this February, after a short period of closure at the beginning of this year. In its place, Park Side Bakery & Deli will bake fresh breads, pastries and cakes on site to supply both the Lakeside venue, and Park Side’s original location in Heath. Meanwhile, the Ballers brand will live on in pop-ups and events best suited to capture…

Cardiff’s home-grown family-friendly festival, Depot in the Castle (DITC), will return to the iconic grounds of Cardiff Castle on Saturday 25th July 2026. Today the full line-up has been announced with pop icons Sugababes joining indie heavyweights The Wombats for a huge all-day celebration of live music, street food and summer fun. First hitting the charts in 2000 with Overload the Sugababes boast an undeniable back catalogue of smash hits, including Round Round, Freak Like Me and Push The Button. Now fresh from their biggest UK arena tour to date and a run of new releases including When The Rain…