Author: Rhys Gregory

We’re all familiar with the classic deck of playing cards, used to play a variety of games from poker to Welsh whist. Yet, by looking back, we can see that throughout the development and evolution of these cards, there have been more links to Wales than might have seemed possible at first sight. The Influential Card Designer The history of playing cards is unclear, although it’s possible that they were first used in 9th-century China. We need to move forward to the 19th century to find the involvement of Welsh architect and designer Owen Jones, though. He was famed for…

Enhancing both the appearance and lifespan of a van doesn’t require a complicated process. One of the most effective and stylish upgrades is investing in high-quality alloy wheels. If you are a VW Crafter owner, VW Crafter alloys in particular enhance aesthetics while also strengthening the vehicle performance and improving ride comfort. These alloys can transform the look of your van, that’s why they have grown in popularity over time. VW Crafter owners are recognising the strong reputation premium alloy wheels have in the market. For personal use, commercial operations or showcasing in events, VW Crafter alloys offer a sleek…

Fishing in the UK means dealing with weather that doesn’t always play fair. Some days start out calm but turn rough without warning. That’s why what you wear matters just as much as the equipment you bring. If you’re out regularly, having the right kit can make all the difference. Keep reading to make sure you’re properly kitted out before your next trip. Why Reliable Gear Matters in UK Waters Anyone who’s spent time fishing around the UK knows how quickly things can turn. One minute it’s clear skies, the next it’s blowing sideways rain. And when you’re wet, cold,…

The Pettifor Trust, one of South West Wales’ leading animal welfare charities, is celebrating 25 years of dedicated service, alongside announcing a new chapter in its leadership and strategic growth. Founded in 2000 by Swansea’s Eve Pettifor, the Trust was established to support the welfare of vulnerable animals, both domestic and wild, across Wales. Over the past quarter-century, it has become a cornerstone of regional animal welfare, offering critical funding for veterinary care and supporting key organisations including Greenacres Rescue, Border Collie Rescue and Rehabilitation, and Llys Nini. The Trust’s sustainable model, driven by two thriving charity shops in Sketty and…

Farmers have started work on three new plots near Newtown to test whether Powys land can be used to grow fruit and vegetables agroecologically on a commercial scale. Between them they are working 36 acres of Powys County Council-owned land in Sarn. It will be used to supply produce to local markets, schools in Wales and possibly in future nearby cities such as Birmingham. The successful applicants, who all come from Powys or the nearby border areas, were selected based on their business plans and former growing experience. The farmers will work collaboratively to provide a local veg box scheme,…

A Newport-based architect who turned his passion for sustainable design into a handcrafted hut business is growing steadily, with commissions ranging from a shepherd hut hair salon to repurposing a railway carriage. Spence Gadsby, 32, founder of Tŷ Green, first launched his eco-buildings business in early 2023 after securing a £20,000 Start Up Loan from the British Business Bank. Since then, he has completed three major projects and is halfway through a fourth, each one bespoke but united by an eco-conscious ethos and high-quality craftsmanship. After qualifying as an architect four years ago, combined with his life-long experience working on…

Anwyl Homes has appointed a new managing director for Cheshire and North Wales as the business aims to grow across the region. With over 25 years’ experience in the housebuilding industry, Mark Calvert will oversee operations in Cheshire and North Wales as well as parts of Shropshire, Wirral and Greater Manchester, supporting the acquisition of new land and bringing new communities to fruition. He will be based at Anwyl’s head office in Ewloe, Flintshire. A graduate of Manchester University, with a degree in civil and structural engineering, Mark began his career as an engineer with Fairclough Homes. He progressed to…

Wales Comic Con returns this September at a brand-new location: the scenic Llangollen Pavilion in North Wales. Running 20–21 September, the event brings fans face to face with top stars, exclusive panels, and a full weekend of geek culture — all set against the stunning Welsh hills. With previous events drawing over 20,000 attendees in a single weekend, Wales Comic Con is now one of Europe’s leading fan conventions, attracting fans from across the UK and beyond. This year’s show features several UK first-time guests, including: Dean Norris (Breaking Bad) Jennifer Beals (Flashdance) Joseph Mazzello (Jurassic Park) Chris Fehn (Slipknot)…

Wales’ newest outdoor inflatable water park, Cosmeston Lakes Aqua Park, has officially opened for the 2025 summer season at the Vale of Glamorgan’s Cosmeston Lakes Country Park. With over 40 connected obstacles, slides and splash zones, this floating adventure course has arrived in Wales, welcoming people to tackle its climbing walls, trampolines, giant slides and infamous ‘Blast Bags’. The park will be open for an eight-week period, with the final sessions on the 14th September 2025. Connor James, Marketing Manager at Cosmeston Lakes Aqua Park, said: “We’re really excited to be bringing back our Aqua Park to Wales for another…

The curtain is set to fall on Cardiff’s Blackweir 2025 summer concert series in spectacular fashion as the legendary Stevie Wonder takes to the stage tomorrow, Wednesday 9 July, for the grand finale of the inaugural event. Part of his Love, Light & Song tour, this very special show is one of only three outdoor UK dates for the global music icon this year, making it a rare and unmissable occasion for fans. The Blackweir Live series has already delivered a run of unforgettable nights on the banks of the River Taff. Noah Kahan kicked off the programme on Friday…