Author: Rhys Gregory

Work on a transformational project to update and refurbish Port Talbot’s Civic Square and the adjacent Princess Royal Theatre will begin on the week commencing Monday, May 26th, 2025. Neath Port Talbot Council has appointed building experts Morgan Sindall Construction as the main contractors on the project which is aimed at regenerating the town centre and improving key facilities. Key points: The Civic Centre itself is not included in the regeneration project, so access will be maintained for our customers throughout. Increased noise levels are expected from the construction work.  Public parking will continue to be available in the civic…

Pembrokeshire County Council is pleased to confirm that essential conservation and repair works at Narberth Castle will start on Monday, May 19th. The works are part of a carefully planned conservation programme designed to stabilise the castle’s historic stone walls using specialist mortar bedding techniques, undertaken in accordance with CADW guidance. Given the sensitive and technical nature of the works, and the need to use tracked access equipment across uneven grassed areas, a full closure of the site to the public will be required for a period of 12 weeks. This includes the footpath through the site. This closure will…

A community development grant scheme for local initiatives has opened for applications across Newport. Charities, social enterprises, voluntary sector organisations, community groups are eligible to apply for the scheme, which will fund activities that contribute to one of the following areas: community building crime prevention breaking down barriers to opportunity environmental education Welsh culture preservation Schools will also be able to apply for funding for extracurricular activities that provide additional value beyond regular school programming in one of these areas. The scheme is being administered by What Impact on behalf of the council. Last year, What Impact administered a similar…

More people in social housing will soon become confident digital technology users, as the Welsh Government has expanded its successful Minimum Digital Living standard grants to reach more housing providers across Wales. The Minimum Digital Living Standard establishes the minimum needs, defined by citizens and organisations, for digital inclusion in modern society. Building on successful pilots with Monmouthshire and North Wales Housing Associations, the grants help social housing providers boost their residents’ digital confidence and skills. Digital Communities Wales has supported the pilots, where required, with basic digital skills training for residents to use technology safely in their daily lives.…

Every football club in Wales will be able to access one of around 1,000 mental health awareness training places as part of a drive to better support clubs to support their teams, coaches and players and their wider community. The e-learning course from Mind Cymru and UK Coaching will be delivered initially to football clubs with the support of the FAW. Whilst the initial focus will be on providing this awareness training to assist in more immediate action, Sport Wales is developing a longer-term preventative approach addressing stigma, risk factors and creating environments which support positive mental health and wellbeing for…

From historic havens to modern marvels, there’s a Welsh yacht club for every kind of sailor, and even for those who just love a good view with a G&T or glass of chardonnay in hand. So, grab a cuppa (or something stronger, we don’t judge!) and let’s set sail on a virtual tour of the best yacht clubs in this beautiful corner of the UK. Steeped in History: The Royal Welsh Yacht Club Let’s kick things off with a yacht club that’s practically a part of Welsh maritime heritage – The Royal Welsh Yacht Club in Caernarfon. It’s a clubhouse…

Temporary van insurance is a flexible, short-term insurance policy designed to cover you for driving a van, motorhome, or campervan for a limited period, typically ranging from as little as one hour up to 28 or 30 days. This type of insurance is ideal for those who need van cover temporarily without committing to a full annual policy. How Temporary Van Insurance Works Temporary van insurance allows you or a nominated driver to get quick and comprehensive cover to drive a van that you do not normally insure. This is particularly useful if you are borrowing or lending a van,…

Older homes have charm, character and stories etched into their walls, but they can also carry risks that aren’t immediately obvious. For properties built before 1980, especially in Wales, some of those risks are hidden in the materials used during construction. Homeowners and renovators must be aware of these hazards to manage them safely and responsibly. While there’s no need for panic, awareness and proactive steps can help maintain both the beauty and safety of a period home. The Risk of Asbestos in Older Welsh Homes Homes constructed between the 1930s and late 1970s are particularly vulnerable to asbestos-related risks.…

The weather is heating up, which means one thing – cocktails in the sun, and Flight Club Cardiff has just created the perfect place to do it! Flight Club is known for its lively atmosphere and Social Darts, but what people might not realise is that nestled at the top of its Cardiff venue is a huge, secluded roof terrace ideal for post-work drinks or al fresco weekend brunch sessions. The cocktail bar has given this easy-to-miss hidden gem a summer-worthy, floral makeover, and the secret garden-esque space is screaming out to be explored. Not only that, but the bar…

Kyle was just seven years old when, during the summer holidays, he stayed with his foster carer Gavin for the first time. In unfamiliar surroundings, he was unable to sleep one night so at about 3am Gavin put a children’s film on for them to watch together, patiently keeping him company through a night of anxiety and worry. Although he only stayed with Gavin for a few nights on that occasion, that simple act of kindness and compassion stayed with Kyle. Ten years later, when Kyle’s circumstances changed, Gavin became his foster carer again with this short-term stay quickly becoming…