Author: Rhys Gregory

In response to the current cost of living crisis the Marco Pierre White Restaurants’ group has introduced a new offer which it hopes will encourage guests to continue to dine out. Available across participating venues within its 40-strong, UK-based estate – including the Cardiff and Swansea Steakhouses – the two-fold strategy has been put in place to firstly help venues attract diners into the restaurants while giving guests a great deal which allows them to dine out without costing too much. In addition to the two for £15 offer, there is also a three-course for £20 deal. Darren Coslett-Blaize, brand…

A new book written by Stan Addicott, A Century of Sport (Y Lolfa) presents the story of the past 100 years of sporting activity at Swansea University, from its founding in 1920 to present times. A host of sporting heroes are featured, including Olympic medalists and international players active in a wide range of sports including rugby, football, athletics, swimming, hockey and cricket. The book also charts the rise of women’s sport, the advent of the professional era, and the development of sport from just five University clubs to more than 50 today. Author Stan Addicott is a former Director of Sport…

Four kittens and a hamster have been left abandoned outside RSPCA Newport Animal Centre. The 14-week-old kittens were sadly dumped at the Hartridge Road centre on 17 September in a large cat carrier. The hamster – now named Victoria – was abandoned on 2 September and was found in her own exercise ball which had been taped up and left in the street. Four ferrets were also found in a bag on 23 September at a lane at Hatherleigh in Newport. These heartbreaking incidents sadly are happening more and more as the cost of living crisis continues. Centre manager Nikki…

With the first round of the FIM Supercross Championships taking place at Principality Stadium on October 8th, from 2pm,Westgate Street,Wood Street and Lower St Mary Street will be closed to motor vehicles, with Wood Street re-opening at 10pm, but Lower St Mary Street remaining closed for the night-time economy. Road closures With the gates of the Principality Stadium opening at 3.30pm for the event and the event scheduled to finish at 9pm, Westgate Street, Wood Street, St Mary Street, Tudor Street and Despenser Street (allowing access only) will be closed in its entirety between 2pm and 10pm. Access to the…

A Swansea council-funded scheme to help cut household energy bills has helped hundreds of Swansea people collectively save thousands of pounds. Its assistance has included a range of practical advice. Tips from the Swansea Energy Awareness Hub – delivered with council partners at The Environment Centre – include: Turning your central heating down from 22C to 21C in a typical gas-heated three-bed semi could save around £105 a year Avoiding standby and turning appliances off when not in use could save around £55 a year for those on a typical electricity tariff Replacing all light bulbs in your home with…

A new one-stop-shop website been made available to support many thousands of Swansea families looking to save money during the cost of living crisis. Put together by Swansea Council, the website at swansea.gov.uk/costoflivinghelp includes information on payments local people may be entitled to, as well as energy saving tips and advice for residents struggling with debt. Job vacancies and guidance for people searching for work is also included on the website, along with information on where people can find help to access food and other essential items. Since it went live at the start of September, the website has already…

​​​​​​​Families looking for free fun this month can visit the city centre’s Castle Square which is set to host a spectacular spooky Saturday. Swansea Council’s annual Spooks in the City event on October 29 will appeal to residents of all ages in the big build-up to Halloween. It’ll feature family entertainment, games and dance performances – and a pumpkin parade supported by Brace’s Bakery. Cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said: “Castle Square will be transformed for Spooks in the City in line with the Halloween theme. “The activities will have a family-friendly feel and will help generate footfall to provide a…

Neath Port Talbot councillors are being recommended to keep Trem Y Glyn residential care home in Glynneath open until March 31st, 2024. The home, which provides residential care and support for people aged 65 and older, including those with dementia, has been managed for many years by Pobl (formerly Gwalia) on behalf of Neath Port Talbot Council. The building was constructed in 1974 and while an extensive programme of refurbishment has been undertaken including a new roof, upgraded bedrooms and updated communal areas, it is accepted it is coming towards the end of its operational life. On October 11th, 2022,…

RCT Council has secured significant funding from Welsh Government towards a major £1.4m flood alleviation scheme at Glenboi Road, that will upgrade the existing pumping station and reduce flood risk in the community. Welsh Government has recently confirmed its approval for the scheme, to vastly increase the capacity of the surface water pumping station at Glenboi Road, designed to accommodate surface water and overland flows generated in the local area. It is intended to provide long-term resilience to the community. Advanced investigatory works are anticipated in late autumn, ahead of the main construction programme which is expected to start in…

The Disability Six Nations Rugby Festival was back last week at the Centre for Sporting Excellence after a two year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Over 300 young people from 25 schools took part giving them the opportunity to experience the thrills of rugby, develop new skills and make new friends. The popularity of the event has grown over the years with only six schools taking part at the start. Sport Caerphilly and Trinity Fields School hosted the event with Dragons RFC joining in and offering their long-standing support making the day a huge success. This is the 16th…