Author: Rhys Gregory

2025 was a landmark year for the Swansea Bay City Deal (SBCD), marking the halfway point in its ambitious 15-year delivery plan to transform South West Wales. With major construction projects completed, new facilities opened, and thousands of skills opportunities delivered, the region is seeing tangible benefits from this £1.3 billion investment. The City Deal is an unprecedented investment funded by the Welsh Government and UK Government, the public sector, and the private sector across the counites of Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Swansea. It will help transform South West Wales’ urban and rural areas into a place where…

Cygnet, made its Hollywood debut as Co-Founder and world-renowned classical singer Katherine Jenkins, walked the red carpet at the 83rd Annual Golden Globes on Sunday 11th January 2026, marking a defining moment for the British brand on a global stage as a leading partner at the Golden Globes. Making a statement from the moment she stepped out, British Icon Katherine Jenkins wore a gown by Suzanne Neville, complete with Kwiat Diamonds and her shoes were Guiseppe Zanotti, delivering a look that blended modern glamour with effortless confidence. Katherine Jenkins, Co-Founder of Cygnet Gin commented: “Every year, the countdown to the…

New runners are being encouraged to nominate themselves to get involved in the 2026 ABP Newport Marathon Festival 100 Club. Run 4 Wales are donating 100 free spaces into the event for those new to the sport to take part in either the 10K or half marathon distances. The 100 Club initiative was set up to support people in the local community who could use the event to help improve their health and wellbeing. Since it was established in 2024 it has supported over 200 runners to find their stride. Many groups such as Gwent Drug & Alcohol Service, Slimming…

An internationally renowned pianist is set to bring a forgotten First World War refugee story back to life in a powerful concert in North Wales. Llŷr Williams, who hails from Pentrebychan near Wrexham, will perform a poignant piece by acclaimed composer Brian Hughes, inspired by the Belgian families who fled the German army’s destruction and found sanctuary in Rhosllannerchrugog. The work, Prelude and Fugue on Louvaine, will be performed at the Bangor Music Festival that’s being staged at the city’s Pontio Arts Centre on Saturday. February 14, and Sunday, February 15. It is rooted in the true story of refugees…

Homebuyers who want to be first in line to reserve a new property in Mold are being invited to a launch event this week. Anwyl Homes will unveil the first homes for sale at Dol Derwen with a special evening event, being hosted at its nearby Summers Bridge development in Deeside on Thursday, January 15. The remote launch will take place ahead of a dedicated sales office and show homes opening on site at Dol Derwen in the spring. Running from 4pm to 7pm, the event will offer prospective buyers the opportunity to enjoy drinks and nibbles while exploring Anwyl’s…

Fabco Group has progressed into the second phase of its successful small-unit industrial development at Pencoed Technology Park, Bridgend. The scheme is expected to support the creation of more than 30 jobs in the local area. The second phase, known as Llanilid Court, comprises 16 units of approximately 1,300 sq ft each, arranged in three terraces. The units are scheduled to be ready for occupation by the end of Q1 2026 and are available for sale individually or combined to create larger accommodation. Llanilid Court is a direct replication of Fabco Group’s highly successful first phase, Felindre Court, which is…

Have you ever wondered why fireplace relaxation feels so deeply satisfying? That mesmerizing dance of flames seems to work magic on our minds and bodies, instantly melting away stress. Scientists have certainly taken notice of this phenomenon! Researchers have discovered fascinating evidence behind what many of us intuitively know – sitting by a crackling fire triggers profound physiological and psychological responses. Surprisingly, these effects aren’t just subjective feelings but measurable changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormone levels. Furthermore, studies from the University of Alabama reveal that watching flames may actually decrease blood pressure while increasing our sense…

When you pour your carefully crafted gin, limoncello or elderflower cordial into the wrong bottle, something feels off. The flavour may be perfect, but if the presentation falls short, the whole experience loses its sparkle. The right bottle doesn’t just hold your drink – it frames it, protects it and turns a homemade experiment into something that looks like it belongs on a boutique bar shelf. Why the bottle changes how your homemade drinks are perceived Think about the last time you received a homemade drink as a gift. Did the bottle shape, weight and closure change what you expected…

Online casino platforms offer a wide range of game formats, each designed with different mechanics and play styles. Two of the most accessible types are instant win games and online Slots. While both use random number generators (RNGs) to determine outcomes and can be played quickly, they differ in how they’re structured, how long each round takes, and how players interact with them. Understanding these differences can help you choose the format that suits your preferences when browsing regulated platforms Format and game structure Online Slots are built around spinning reels, paylines, and symbols. Most slot games include features such…

Businesses relying on vehicles in England, Scotland, or Wales are experiencing a period of rapid change. Rising fuel prices, supply chain interruptions, new environmental goals, and changes in legislation, as well as difficulties in the recruitment of drivers and even increased traffic, are putting pressure on companies to adapt and become more productive. With so many challenges ahead, UK-based vehicle-dependent organisations are required to optimise their operational efficiency to remain cost-effective, compliant, and well-connected. The “battle” for business owners, fleet operators, and drivers in the UK is no longer just to keep vehicles moving, but to build resilient and more…