Author: Rhys Gregory

Croeso Pubs Ltd, the South Wales pub chain which already runs seven venues including The Philharmonic and Brewhouse in Cardiff, is taking over the lease of The Bear’s Head in Penarth. The pub in Windsor Road, Penarth, was formerly run by JD Wetherspoons, which announced its sudden closure in March when it decided not to renew the lease on the venue. Croeso Pubs has stepped in to take over the lease and will reopen The Bear’s Head’s doors in early July. The Bear’s Head is the second ‘community pub’ for Croeso pubs – in December last year it refurbished The…

Thirteen Powys companies were helped to expand or secure their future in the last six months thanks to Growth Grants from the county council. They are involved in a wide range of activities from house building to brewing and all received sums of between £1,000 and £25,000 after a total of nearly £1.1 million was secured by the council, from the UK Government, via the Shared Prosperity Fund. The money, which can also be claimed by businesses looking to move to Powys, is still available under a second round of the scheme. This round will remain open until the pot…

A brand new luxury resort and spa in North Wales is now open for bookings with a number of entertainment offers for all the family to enjoy. The Marian Resort & Spa by Lyons Holiday Parks is now open for bookings where guests can stay in one of the 80 lodges or hot tub lodges, each one perfectly equipped for a relaxing, nature filled stay. The park is nestled in the pretty Welsh village of Dyserth in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by fascinating ancient culture and thrilling mountain scenery. A stone’s throw from miles of sandy beaches,…

In a first for Swansea, a world-renowned art installation is set to land on Museum Green in the city centre as part of Taliesin Arts Centre’s 40th Anniversary Celebrations. From the Guggenheim in Spain to the Sydney Opera House in Australia, the monumental and interactive walk-in sculptures of Architects of Air and designer Alan Parkinson have astounded audiences across the globe. Luminarium by the Architects of Air will be available to experience between Thursday, May 30 and Sunday, June 2. The installation has been made possible thanks to Taliesin Arts Centre, a venue and creative organisation owned, operated, and part-funded by Swansea…

A 34-year-old man who seriously assaulted his partner has been jailed for over two and a half years. Guy Billington, of Maes Aled, Llansannan, Conwy, threw bleach at the victim’s face after physically attacking her in an incident on April 15th 2022. Having admitted assault causing actual bodily harm, he was jailed at Mold Crown Court on Thursday, May 23rd for a total of 16 months for the offence and handed a five-year restraining order to protect the victim. He also received a consecutive 16-month sentence for the production of cannabis. The incident began after the victim told Billington she…

Red Bull Hardline, known as the most challenging downhill mountain bike race world wide, confirms the final rider list for this year’s Wales event.  Following its first event overseas, with a stop Down Under, Red Bull Hardline returns to its home in Wales’ Dyfi valley to celebrate its 10th anniversary. The brainchild of Dan Atherton a decade ago, 34 of the brightest and best talents in downhill mountain biking are set to descend on the north Wales course. With the 2023 event sadly curtailed by the Welsh weather, there’s old scores to settle and it’s all to play for in…

A historic Grade II listed building in the heart of Cardigan town centre has undergone significant restoration work to repair and update its facilities. The newly refurbished Cardigan Market Hall will provide long term sustainability for market traders, unique retail and dining experiences and stimulate the local economy. The strategic regeneration project has received support from the Transforming Towns Placemaking grant and the Building for the Future programme. The Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Local Government and Planning, Julie James, recently had the pleasure of visiting the market and said: “With a focus on community facilities, improving visitor experience, making places…

Welsh drinks manufacturer Radnor has secured new Asda listings for two of its brands. Radnor Splash, the UK’s fastest growing flavoured water, will be available in two new sizes in selected Asda Wales stores from this week. Lemon & Lime and Apple & Raspberry will be available as 6x500ml multipacks (RRP: £2.50) and Radnor Splash’s two best-selling flavours Strawberry and Lemon & Lime will land in Asda in 1.5L bottles. (RRP: £1). The low calorie and sugar-free brand, which is a blend of pure Radnor spring water and all natural fruity flavours, is already available in Asda stores nationally in…

New conceptual images have been released showing elements of a £6.25bn renewable energy scheme in Swansea that’s set to include a tidal lagoon. As well as the lagoon, the new images show other elements of the project including a renewable energy transport hub on Fabian Way and an oceanic and climate change research centre. Led by DST Innovations, the project is being funded by the private sector. The project – supported by Swansea Council – is proposed for land in the area of Swansea port. Also shown in the images is a hyper-scale data centre that’s due to form part…

A man from Swansea has been jailed for multiple child sex offences. 34-year-old Phillip Bowler, from Mount Pleasant, sent messages of a sexual nature to a child before arranging a meeting to force them to delete the messages. He then touched the victim inappropriately. Bowler later sent multiple further communications to the child, making considerable effort to incite them into sexual activity. He also sent the victim a video of himself which was of a sexual nature. Phillip Bowler has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison for engaging in sexual communications with a child, inciting a child to engage…