Author: Rhys Gregory

Welsh international rugby player and Swansea University law graduate Alun Wyn Jones has taken up the position of Strategic Advisor to the National Network for Innovation In Sport and Health (NNIISH) within Swansea University. Jones is the most capped player in world rugby history, having made 158 appearances for Wales and 12 for the Lions during his 20-year career. The role will involve sharing his perspective on working within and leading teams, offering insight into driving performance and identifying emerging trends in the sport and health technology sectors. Jones will also support the development of an executive University course for…

A brass band currently ranked number one in the world is set to join the line-up of a globally renowned musical festival for the first time. Foden’s Band will raise the roof in a concert in St Asaph Cathedral on September 14th as part of this year’s North Wales International Music Festival 2024 which runs from September 12 to 21. The 30-strong band, based in Sandbach, Cheshire, will be competing in the British Open Brass Band Championships – the world’s oldest music contest – in the Symphony Hall, Birmingham just a week before the gig and have already set their…

A 32-year-old man has been jailed for six years for sexually assaulting a young girl. Jordan Swaine, of Gwyndy, Trawsfynydd, appeared before Mold Crown Court for sentencing last week (Friday, August 9th). He was found guilty of sexual activity with a child, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, causing a child to watch sexual activity and supplying cannabis. Swaine was working at a campsite in 2021 when he sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl having repeatedly asked her for sex, despite knowing her age. On another occasion in his van, he gave the victim cannabis and showed…

From continuing works to preserve a once extinct species in Wales to preserving a Grade II listed building, Flintshire County Council’s connecting coast to countryside project is transforming the county’s coastline. The scheme aims to deliver improvements in scenic areas across eight coastal hubs for local residents and visitors. One hub that is benefitting from the programme is former coalmine Bettisfield Colliery in Bagillt, which has seen 40 bags of dumped rubbish collected, pathway upgrades, and continued support to protect the natterjack toad after its recent re-introduction. Formerly extinct in Wales, the rare natterjack now inhabits the site, one of…

The future of more than 50 care home residents and 10 users of an extra care facility, all located in south Wales, has been secured following an agreement between a national care charity and an employee-owned health and social care provider. Shaw healthcare, head-quartered in Cardiff, has taken operational control of the homes and additional care provision, previously managed by leading UK specialist care charity Leonard Cheshire. Danybryn is a 31 bedded home in Radyr, Cardiff and Ty Cwm is a 20 bedded home located in Carmarthen, also the location of the ten residents receiving care in extra-care accommodation. Both…

Artwork by care home residents with dementia has gone on show at an exhibition at a Gwynedd arts centre. Co Fi (My Memory) is a co-production between Galeri Caernarfon and Pendine Park’s Bryn Seiont Newydd care home on the outskirts of Caernarfon. Paintings depicting scenes of Eryri landscapes adorn the walls of Galeri’s Safle Creu (Creative Space) while the recreation of a living room revives memories from bygone days through song and words. After spending hours creating the paintings, sometimes aided by children from several of Caernarfon’s primary schools, the artistic residents visited Galeri to see their work on display.…

Butterflies prefer lighting that contains ultraviolet according to a new study by Aberystwyth University scientists that could help improve how insects are kept indoors. It is widely known that insects of various species are attracted to artificial light, but very little is known about the effects of lighting on butterfly behaviour. New research published in the journal Animal Behaviour, shows that while artificial lighting without UV does not affect the general behaviour of butterflies; given a choice, they prefer ultraviolet light. The study by academics at Aberystwyth University’s Department of Life Sciences, with the help of the National Botanical Gardens…

A Prestatyn based allotments is providing strong support for both budding gardeners and pollinators. National Allotments Week, which runs from August 12-18, is this year celebrating biodiversity on all UK allotments, looking at how sites can both help gardening skills and give back to local nature as well. Managed by Denbighshire Countryside Services, the allotment site at Coed Y Morfa is a haven not only for budding gardeners and horticultural enthusiasts but also a host of important pollinators. The site, previously a waste disposal area, has been transformed into an allotment site boasting 50 raised bed plots, a large polytunnel…

Ensuring the health and safety of your family involves more than just regular doctor visits and a balanced diet. An often-overlooked aspect of maintaining a healthy home environment is the proper maintenance of your plumbing system, particularly your drains. Clogged or poorly maintained drains can lead to a range of problems, from unpleasant odours and slow water drainage to severe water damage and health risks. To maintain your family’s health and the integrity of your home, it’s crucial to incorporate regular drain cleaning and maintenance into your household routine. Understanding the Importance of Drain Maintenance A smooth-running plumbing system is…

Becoming a live casino dealer presents an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in the gaming industry. The average salary for a live dealer can range significantly, with potential earnings between £22,000 to £55,000 in the UK based on experience and the casino’s location. Factors such as tips, which can account for a substantial portion of a dealer’s income, also play a vital role in overall earnings. In addition to salary, live casino dealers often receive various benefits that enhance their compensation package. Many casinos offer medical insurance, pension plans, and professional training opportunities, which can make the role more appealing.…