Author: Rhys Gregory

The first AI model that can predict the risk of non-contact lower limb injury in rugby players has been developed by researchers at Bangor University. The model uses pattern recognition analysis to identify the complex and interconnected factors that can lead to injuries such as sprained ankles, torn or sprained ligaments and more severe muscle strains. Lower limb injuries are the most common type in rugby union, accounting for about half of the days lost due to injury in the international game. The researchers, from Bangor University’s Rugby Knowledge Exchange followed 36 semi-professional rugby union players throughout two seasons, using…

A mid-Wales-based start-up which plans to make DNA testing technology as easy to use as a smartphone has been backed with a £350,000 equity investment from the Development Bank of Wales. Amped PCR, based in Powys, is developing PurifAI, an innovative DNA testing system designed to revolutionise how industries detect harmful pathogens. The deployable, modular lab integrates advanced automation and artificial intelligence, making DNA testing faster, more efficient and accessible outside of traditional laboratory settings. Following investment from the Development Bank’s Tech Seed Fund, the company aims to bring the PurifAI system, alongside its reagent Amped Universal, to a wider…

Next Generation Security is now fully operational at the National Airport of Wales. The new technology allows passengers to leave liquids under 100ml in their hand luggage, along with all electronics, providing an enhanced customer experience. It means the screening process will be quicker, giving customers more time to enjoy the great, recently upgraded facilities we have in the Airport’s departure lounge. Airport colleagues have been extremely proud to help deliver this major project. Works have been undertaken in the terminal building for the past two years. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKalOE60y64 Spencer Birns, CEO of Cardiff Airport, said: “I would like to say…

SPECSAVERS HAVERFORDWEST has relocated to a larger, state-of-the-art premises in the Riverside Shopping Centre, becoming the largest Specsavers store in Wales following a £1.2 million investment by local partners. The grand opening of the new landmark store took place on Monday 16 December, with customers and local dignitaries, including several mayors, in attendance. On arrival, guests were welcomed with performances from the Haverfordwest Male Voice Choir and local musician and dispensing technician, Kyle Kirkhouse, followed by a ribbon cutting by one of the store’s long-standing customers, Madaline Roberts, who runs the Milford Haven branch of the Macular Society. William McNamara,…

Burglar Jamie Laver broke into homes and flats in the Roath and Splott areas of Cardiff. He stole a 72-inch television from student accommodation and jewellery of great sentimental value from the home of a grandmother. But his criminal spree came to an end when he was identified through social media and Retrospective Facial Recognition (RFR). Laver was caught on CCTV in the Co-op on Splott Road using a bank card from a burglary committed minutes earlier on April 22, 2024. His identity was unknown, so in May 2024 detectives turned to our Facebook followers for help. Several people named…

Officers in Anglesey are intensifying efforts to protect victims of domestic abuse over the Christmas period. The operation throughout December aims to safeguard victims and deter perpetrators as statistics show incidents of domestic abuse tend to rise around this time of year. It will see two extra police officers carrying out extra safeguarding visits to those identified as being at high risk of domestic abuse. District Sergeant Christopher Burrow said: “Historically, incidents of domestic abuse sadly increase over the Christmas period. “Everyone has the right to feel safe. The introduction of dedicated officers over the Christmas period will ensure we…

The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Libraries and Cultural Services department has received a major financial boost from the Arts Council of Wales after being awarded more than £100,000 from the Jobs Protection and Resilience Fund. This money will be used to support the Council’s Art Central Gallery in Barry and Penarth Pier Pavilion by contributing to staffing costs. It will also help ensure a programme of cultural activities and events can continue and that each venue remains financially stable and able to serve their communities. Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh…

Work is underway to preserve the legacy of a beloved Ruthin park veteran tree. Storm Darragh recently caused damage to many areas across Denbighshire through high winds, bringing down a number of trees across the county. At Cae Ddôl park, the storm brought down the much loved estimated 550 year-old Oak which has overlooked the nearby water for generations of Ruthin residents and visitors to enjoy. To preserve the memory of the Oak for future generations, intricate work is now underway at Denbighshire County Council’s Tree Nursery at St Asaph. The Council’s Tree Team and Biodiversity Team are leading the…

Shoppers in Swansea are being urged to be on their guard this Christmas when buying gifts for family and friends. The advice follows a recent visit to a temporary pop-up shop in the city centre by the Council’s Trading Standards team, where more than a third of the shops stock was seized, including a wide range of toys, electrical items and perfumes. Trading standards have raised concerns over the potential dangers of many of the items, such as choking risks linked to small toys, as well as wider licensing concerns with fake goods. The team are now in the process…

Staff and tenants supported two important charities as they got into the festive spirit with carols and competitions at the Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock, last Friday (December 13th). Local businesses donated generous prizes and pupils from Ysgol Bro Penfro sang carols at the event, which raised funds for emotional support charity the Samaritans and The Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which works with schools and individuals to help children with additional learning needs. Beth Morgan of The Catrin Vaughan Foundation said: “We are really delighted to attend today, this means a huge amount to us as a family and as an…