Author: Rhys Gregory

Welshpool Library will be re-opening in its usual home, Y Lanfa, on Friday 20 March, after the completion of building works. It follows its extension and refurbishment as part of a major project to restore the Montgomery Canal. The library will be open for the last time in its temporary home in the canalside cottages, next to Y Lanfa, on Saturday 14 March, with the doors reopening on the new facilities across the yard six days later, at 9.30am. The project, delivered by Welshpool-based SWG Construction, has expanded the floor space beneath the existing canopy to create a new entrance…

Pantside Footbridge has been successfully reinstalled following a series of overnight works, though it will remain closed for several more weeks while final safety checks are carried out. Caerphilly County Borough Council confirmed that the bridge was reinstalled in the early hours of Monday, March 9, following a phased programme of work carried out overnight across Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The council said the installation was completed as planned, marking an important milestone in efforts to restore the structure after it was damaged in a bridge strike in 2019. However, the footbridge will remain closed to the public for several…

Police are appealing for help to find a 53 year old man who has been reported missing in the Llandovery area. Jonathan was last seen at around 10am this morning and officers are asking anyone who may have seen him to come forward. He was wearing a black T shirt with a Mercedes logo on it and grey jeans. He may also be wearing black sunglasses. Jonathan may be travelling in a grey Citroen van with the registration CV64 BUE. Dyfed Powys Police said he has links to the Cynwyl Elfed area in Carmarthenshire, as well as Pembroke and Kilgetty…

A Wrexham man has been jailed for raping and sexually assaulting a child. William Davies, 32, of no fixed abode, was found guilty of rape following a trial at Mold Crown Court in January. He admitted assault by penetration of a child and sexual assault. At Mold Crown Court on Tuesday 10 March, Davies was jailed for 12 years. He was also handed a 15-year sexual harm prevention order and subject to notification requirements for life. A 15-year restraining order was also put in place to protect the victim. Investigating officer, Detective Constable Emily Brierly said: “At the centre of…

Transport for Wales (TfW) customers and colleagues have together raised over £17,000 for Seren Dwt as part of this year’s charity partnership, supporting children born with Down syndrome and their families across Wales. The total marks the culmination of TfW’s year‑long partnership with Seren Dwt, which was chosen as the organisation’s charity of the year for 2025. Throughout the year, TfW colleagues across the Wales and Borders rail network organised fundraising events, took on challenges, and encouraged customer donations to help reach the impressive total. To celebrate the partnership and raise awareness of Seren Dwt’s mission, TfW has also wrapped…

Home renovation remains a popular investment across Wales. Still, while kitchens, flooring and décor often take centre stage, the condition of the walls and ceilings can have just as much impact on the final result. Proper plastering and finishing work play a major role in how a renovated home looks and lasts. Home renovation remains a popular choice for homeowners across Wales looking to modernise their space, improve comfort, and add long-term value to their property. Whether the work involves refreshing one room or carrying out a larger refurbishment, attention usually goes to obvious upgrades such as flooring, kitchens, lighting,…

From construction and maintenance to property services and facilities work, businesses across Wales continue to rely on safe access equipment. But when mobile tower scaffolds are involved, proper training is not a formality. It is a practical safeguard that helps workers understand assembly, inspection and safe use before they leave the ground. Workplace safety remains a live issue across Wales Across Wales, working at height is part of everyday operations in sectors such as construction, facilities maintenance, property repairs and building services. External works, inspections, decorating, signage, electrical jobs and routine maintenance all regularly involve access equipment and elevated tasks.…

From flexible floorplans to lower running costs, buyers across Wales are taking a more measured view of what makes a home worth pursuing in 2026. The Welsh housing market has started 2026 on firmer ground than many expected. Confidence has improved, activity has picked up, and forecasts suggest Wales is set for steady rather than dramatic house price growth this year. Cardiff and Newport are among the stronger-performing markets, while other areas are seeing more mixed conditions shaped by affordability, supply and local demand. That steadier backdrop is not producing careless buyers. Quite the opposite. People are still prepared to…

An independent bookshop in Penarth has been named the Wales winner in The British Book Awards 2026 Independent Bookshop of the Year category. Griffin Books was among nine regional and country winners announced today, selected from a shortlist of 76 finalists across the United Kingdom and Ireland. The awards celebrate independent bookshops that continue to bring creative and innovative bookselling to communities while supporting local high streets and the wider creative industries. The Penarth store has now claimed the Wales title for the fourth time in six years, reflecting its continued growth and strong connection with readers in the area.…

Hay Festival has revealed the full programme for its 39th spring edition in Hay-on-Wye, with more than 500 events planned across 11 days from May 21 to 31, 2026. The internationally renowned literary festival will once again bring writers, performers, experts and creatives from around the world to the book town in Powys, offering a packed schedule of talks, performances and debates. Tickets are on sale now for Hay Festival Membership+, Patrons and Benefactors via hayfestival.org/hay-on-wye. Priority booking begins at noon on Wednesday March 11, with general booking opening on Saturday March 14. Hay Festival Global CEO Julie Finch said:…