Author: Rhys Gregory

A new transitional relief scheme will help businesses manage rates changes from next April. The Welsh Government has announced an additional £116 million of support, as business rates in Wales will be updated to reflect current property values. From 1 April 2026, the revaluation will mean many will see their bills fall, while others will see them go up. Any business whose bill increases by more than £300 next year because of the revaluation will have the rise phased in gradually over two years, rather than paying the full increase immediately. For the first time since 2010, the multiplier will be…

South Wales Police are appealing for information after a suspicious incident on Beach Road in Pyle on Wednesday evening. The report was made just before 8pm on 3 December. Witnesses said a young woman wearing a long dark puffa coat appeared to be forced into a white Seat Leon by a man dressed in dark clothing and a baseball cap. A second woman is understood to have got into the car before it drove away. A function was taking place at the nearby rugby club at the time and officers have been carrying out enquiries in the area. Police are…

South Wales Police have issued an appeal to help find a 16 year old boy from Merthyr Tydfil who has been reported missing. Owain was last seen at around 1pm on Tuesday 2 December and concerns are growing for his welfare. He is described as being 5ft 11 with a shaved head. Officers believe he may have travelled to the Cardiff area. The police are asking anyone who may have seen Owain, or who has any information on his whereabouts, to get in touch as soon as possible. If you can help, contact South Wales Police and quote reference 2500383042.…

A stretch of the A48 in Cardiff is affected by heavy surface water this morning, with police urging drivers to slow down and take extra care. According to South Wales Police, the issue is on the section between the University Hospital of Wales and the Llanedeyrn interchange. The build up of water is making conditions tricky and motorists are being reminded to adjust their speed and leave extra room for braking. Officers have thanked road users for their patience while the weather clears and conditions improve.

Rebranding to enter the luxury sector is a challenging but high-reward strategic shift. It involves fundamentally changing the customer’s perception of your product, moving from a focus on value to a focus on desire, exclusivity, and quality. This post will show you the four key steps to take to elevate your brand and price point. So, if you are looking to enter the luxury sector, be sure to keep reading. 1. Redefine Your Brand Narrative with Scarcity Luxury is defined by exclusivity and controlled distribution, not volume sales. Therefore, your entire brand story must reflect this shift. Conduct a thorough…

Holidays aren’t just about lounging in the sun by the pool, sipping a margarita. Some people want more action and excitement, and that’s highlighted by the recent adventure tourism boom. This is becoming a popular form of getaway, as it allows people to stay active and rack up exhilarating experiences that they might not usually have the chance to do. Wales is the ideal place for this type of tourism, and there are already a few places that are offering incredible outdoor experiences. Businesses in the country could jump on this trend and help Wales become the number one destination…

Choosing school playground equipment is a big decision. The right kit must be safe, robust, inclusive, and genuinely fun so pupils keep coming back day after day. It should also work for your site, your budget, and your maintenance capacity. This buyer’s guide walks you through the key choices that specialist Caloo suggests, from surfacing and layout to warranties and inspections, so you can specify a playground that stands the test of time and supports active learning across the school year. Start with purpose, not products Begin by defining what you want the space to achieve. Do you need to increase…

The world of Middle-earth, created by J.R.R. Tolkien, is full of legendary weapons — each with its own story, power, and place in history. Among them, the swords stand out most vividly, often symbolising courage, destiny, and the triumph of good over evil. From the shards of Narsil to the blade of Sting, these weapons have inspired generations of fans and collectors alike. But which Lord of the Rings sword truly has the greatest history and power? Let’s explore the origins, craftsmanship, and significance of these famous blades. The Legendary Swords of Middle-earth The Lord of the Rings universe features…

The Institute of Directors Wales (IoD Wales) has officially launched the 2026 Wales Director of the Year Awards, marking the annual celebration of outstanding leadership across the nation. The awards recognise exceptional business leaders who are making a difference through innovation, sustainability, equity, diversity and inclusion. Each year, more than 300 directors from across Wales come together to celebrate the individuals driving positive change in their organisations and communities. This year, Cardiff Business School has been confirmed as the headline sponsor for the 2026 awards, continuing its long-standing partnership with IoD Wales. Entries open on 5 December 2025, with the…

Two long-term vintage car enthusiasts have set up their own garage to specialise in repairing and refitting classic cars, backed by a £50,000 loan from the Development Bank of Wales. Tonyrefail-based JNB Autos was started by friends Benjamin Morgans and Jonathan Clement. Bringing together their experience in working on classic cars, JNB Autos will service and maintain vintage cars including Porsche, Jaguar, Mustang, Mercedes, BMW and others. It will also offer servicing and repairs for non-classic cars. The £50,000 loan, via the Wales Flexible Investment Fund helped the business set up in a garage in the Gelligron Industrial Estate. Benjamin…