Author: Rhys Gregory

Once overgrown, derelict and vandalised, Aberglasney is delighted to be celebrating a momentous milestone next month as it reaches the 25th anniversary of the gardens being restored and open to the public. There is mention of ‘nine green gardens’ at Aberglasney in a poem dating from medieval times, with the history of Aberglasney documented from the days of Henry VIII. The historic grade II* listed mansion at Aberglasney has been home to many colourful characters over the last 500 years including a famous poet, artists and a bishop. Aberglasney was on the brink of collapse however when it was rescued…

A study examining growth trends of 11 regional UK cities over the past decade has found that Cardiff enjoyed sustainable growth. The city combined employment and wage growth with the second strongest improvement in healthy life expectancy at birth. A comparably higher percentage of citizens with no qualifications, however, is likely to remain a drag on future growth. OCO Global’s ‘Local Heroes’ report examined 37 data points covering economic, prosperity, wellbeing, property and educational trends over the past decade. The cities were ranked as Top Tier (Edinburgh), Booming (Belfast, Manchester and Bristol), Solid Performers (Cardiff, Liverpool, Leeds and Newcastle) and…

There are just a few weeks left to enter the 2024 Wales STEM Awards with entries closing on 12th July. The 2024 Wales STEM Awards will shine a spotlight on the organisations and individuals making a difference to the STEM agenda in Wales. The awards celebrate those leading the sector in Wales, those businesses creating an impact on the Welsh economy, those addressing the STEM diversity gap and skills shortage, and those inspiring and raising aspirations of the next generation. The 2024 ceremony will take place on 17th October at the Mercure Holland House Hotel in Cardiff. There are fifteen…

Wales’ fastest growing Community Bank has gained Investing in Volunteers accreditation. Smart Money Cymru passed the rigorous assessments for the award, and CEO Mark White is delighted. “We rely heavily on our volunteers and are obviously very pleased to have achieved this status.” Smart Money Cymru has 18 full and part-time volunteers across its 12 sites in South and Mid Wales, playing a vital part in its day-to-day operations supporting the organisation’s 14,000 Members, working alongside staff. The Community Bank has grown rapidly from its base in Caerphilly, having recently merged with Newport, Brecon and Red Kite Credit Union in Llandrindod Wells.…

There will be a series of changes to the traffic management arrangements around the Pontypridd bingo hall site from the beginning of July. These will be carefully managed to maintain traffic flow, particularly at peak times. Work started in February 2024 to redevelop the site into a vibrant public realm space, and to accommodate new bus bays to serve the southern end of the town centre. The scheme is on course for completion this summer as planned. Since the early stages of the scheme, the southbound lane closest to the former bingo hall site has remained closed to facilitate work…

The Welsh Government has announced a new data partnership with OpenAI to improve how AI-technologies works in Welsh. In the Senedd this week, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, outlined his key priorities for the Welsh language, with technology a golden thread running through each one. His priorities include: Publishing a Welsh Language Education Bill in the coming weeks which will enable all school pupils in Wales to become independent and confident Welsh speakers; Supporting economic development in communities with a high density of Welsh speakers to ensure the language flourishes alongside economic growth; Creating…

A crane hire and contractor business based in South Wales has purchased a new mobile crane in a move to expand its capacity to take on more projects within the energy sector. With the number of renewable energy projects being delivered on the rise in the UK – a result of the acceleration towards net zero – Bridgend-based R.W. Christopher has invested in a brand new 250 tonne crane to capitalise on more green energy generation contracts coming to the market as it enters a new phase of growth. In addition to its new crane, the business has also purchased…

The Mekong River, which is a source of livelihood for millions and a popular destination for the tourism industry, is facing challenges due to the impacts of climate change. Stretching nearly 4,350 kilometres through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, the Mekong River’s health is crucial not only for the ecological balance but also for the economic vitality of the region, particularly for those dependent on river cruise tourism. This blog will further look into the specific environmental changes affecting the Mekong River, including the changes to water temperature, flow, and biodiversity. It will also explore how these changes…

As the summer heat rolls in, it’s essential for pet owners to take proactive steps in ensuring the well-being of their furry friends. Just like humans, pets can also suffer from heat-related illnesses and discomfort. As the days get hotter, veterinary surgeon Dr. Nick Horniman MRCVS and the team of experts behind mypetsvet.co.uk have provided eight valuable tips to help you keep your cats, dogs and other pets cool and safe during the scorching summer months. Provide lots of fresh water Hydration is crucial for all pets, particularly during hot weather. Make sure your pets have constant access to clean,…

A ‘celebration of local enterprise’ is set to take place at Ffos Market next week to showcase and connect the varied businesses that make up the regional economy as part of a wider series of support across the county borough. The summer social event will take place at the market on Wednesday the 3rd of July featuring food and drink from local traders as the local business community comes together to start the summer in style. It stands to be a social, fun and entertaining way to help businesses and workers connect in a less formal setting, as well as promote the…