Author: Rhys Gregory

Hundreds of runners have already signed up to take part in the 2025 ABP Newport Marathon Festival, taking advantage of special launch offer pricing.  Those thinking of running next year need to act quickly if they also want to save, as the offer expires at the end of this month.  Many people may be waiting to hear on whether or not they’ve been successful in the TCS London Marathon ballot first before signing up – but there’s no need to hold back.  Runners who are offered a place in the ballot can cancel and claim a refund on their 2025…

In today’s dynamic business landscape, the need for agility, compliance, and efficiency has never been more pronounced. As companies expand globally or seek to navigate the complexities of hiring remote workers, they encounter a myriad of legal, administrative, and operational challenges. Amidst this backdrop, the emergence of Employer of Record (EOR) services has proven to be a game-changer. Essentially, an EOR acts as a co-employer, shouldering responsibilities related to HR, payroll, taxes, and compliance while the client retains control over day-to-day tasks and management. This article delves into why integrating an Employer of Record into your business model is not…

UK timber supplier Premier Forest Products has appointed Anthony Hopps as Group Processing Director, supporting the company’s commitment to their processing division. Anthony, who has over 30 years industry experience, joined the business early last year, following the acquisition of Decorpanel, a specialist panel processing company based in Tyne & Wear. Under his leadership, the panel processing arm has grown to incorporate North-East Sheets & Panels Ltd. (NESP) which has rebranded under the Decorpanel name as Decorpanel KBB (Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms). His new role will see him taking responsibility for Premier Forest’s processing division as a whole, which includes…

Honest Burgers is renowned for their monthly specials that burst with flavor, and May is no exception. From now until June 3rd, all Honest Burgers locations across the UK will offer the CALIFORNIA, a burger inspired by the iconic California burger. This special features two thin, smashed Honest beef patties, bacon, French’s mustard, double American cheese, grilled onions, brown butter burger sauce, tomato, lettuce, and pickles. This combination creates a toasty, savory, smoky taste, beloved by top chefs and Hollywood stars, cementing its status as a burger world icon. The inaugural SMASHED by HONEST special pays homage to the classic…

A neglected Bulldog abandoned in a Swansea flat has been rescued by the RSPCA and is now having emergency veterinary care. RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector (DCI) Gemma Cooper attended the flat yesterday (Tuesday 14 Tuesday) in the Uplands area after it was believed that the dog – known as Dave – may have been left in the property since 26 April. “This dog is very unwell and he doesn’t appear to have been attended to for a very long time judging by his poor condition,” said Gemma. “He has now been taken to a vets for emergency treatment. He has…

Former headteacher Neil Frederick Foden, of Gwynant, Old Colwyn, has been found guilty of sexual offences following a three-week trial at Mold Crown Court. The 66-year-old, who was head of Ysgol Friars in Bangor, was today convicted of 19 charges relating to four victims, including sexual offences against children who he should have protected. Speaking after the verdict, Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans said: “We welcome the jury’s verdict following a difficult case and thank them for their diligent work. “My thoughts remain with the victims and their families today, who have shown dignity and bravery throughout the trial and…

People with visual impairments have been given more confidence to travel thanks to a new initiative by Transport for Wales. Teams of Travel Companions have been employed at key stations including Cardiff Central, Chester, Swansea, Newport and Shrewsbury to help those with additional needs feel more confident when traveling. In Swansea this month, members of Guide Dogs Cymru met with the Travel Companion team to understand how they the new roles would work. Ken Skates, The Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport said: “This fantastic initiative provides additional support to people with a visual impairment. Just knowing there is…

Members at Bridgend County Borough Council met earlier yesterday (Wednesday 15 May) for the Annual Meeting of Council where they elected Councillor John Spanswick as the authority’s new Leader. His appointment follows the recent decision by Councillor Huw David to step down from the role after more than eight years of leading the authority. The following Cabinet positions were also confirmed for the year ahead: Deputy Leader / Cabinet Member for Social Services, Health and Wellbeing – Councillor Jane Gebbie Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance – Councillor Hywel Williams Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Services – Councillor Martyn…

Applications for grant funding to support voluntary-sector community organisations to improve their community buildings are now being invited. Local community and voluntary groups across the city can apply for funding up to £10,000 to carry out internal and external improvements to their buildings such as improving accessibility, enhancing security, kitchen refurbishments, and energy efficiency measures, that would help secure or increase  the use of their facilities by the local community. Supported by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the Community Building Grants Scheme requires eligible applicants to fund at least 15% of the overall project costs from other sources. Eligible…

A Swansea organisation that supports people with their mental health and emotional well-being has won a funding boost. Happy Headwork – a team of experts in psychology, therapy, training and sustainable development – has secured funding from Swansea Council as part of a rural anchor project being funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The funding means Happy Headwork will be able to run more sessions of its ‘Head Outdoors!’ programme, which will see participants getting closer to nature by taking part in six-week courses at Penllergare Valley Woods. More than 30 local people who are…