Velindre Bus Service

Residents of Velindre, Port Talbot, are back on the bus map and from September 1st residents will find it easier to access the bus network.

South Wales Transport (Neath) Ltd have reached agreement with Neath Port Talbot Council to divert most of the journeys on partially subsidized service 66 via Abbey Road, Tan Y Groes Street, Dan Y Bryn Road, Ynys Street and the rear of the Civic Centre in Heilbron Way.

The company will make time available to do this by withdrawing the little used diversion via Elba Crescent, which is served by First.

Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Ali Thomas, said he was pleased that a solution had been found to the Velindre problem, following the withdrawal of the previous Ridgways service 7 almost a year ago.

"This is another example of two hard working councillors achieving the right results for the people they represent.

"I am particularly pleased that this service will make a difference to their lives," he said.

Local councillors Ian James and Dennis Keogh added, "We are delighted that, following a period of lobbying of the company, a solution has been reached for the residents."

Bev Fowles from the company said he looked forward to welcoming the many concessionary bus pass holders who live along the revised route on to the new low floor easy-access buses used on service 66.

John Flower, added the revised service will also be handy for pupils travelling to St Joseph's schools in Aberavon as they would be able to get on and off at nearby Neath Port Talbot Hospital.

The new timetable for service 66 will be available in due course from traveline cymru by logging on to www.travelinecymru.info or by telephoning 0871 200 22 33

Photograph: Council Leader Ali Thomas joins Velindre residents on the new bus service. Also pictured are Cabinet Member for the Environment Sandra Miller, local councillor Ian James and Bev Fowles from South Wales Transport.

read more... “Velindre Bus Service”

Burry Port Visited by Television Production Company

A film crew working on S4C’s, programme Bro visited the RNLI’s station at Burry Port on Thursday evening 27 August 2009.

The crew had been in the Carmarthen Bay area all week filming various organisations and at leisure venues. The volunteers at Burry Port Lifeboat were filmed talking about their preparation, training and rescues. They filmed the crew practising the righting of an Inshore Lifeboat after a capsize.

Bro is presented by Shân Cothi and Iolo Williams and will be shown on S4C in October 2009.

• Shân Cothi has appeared in West End musicals and is presenter on Radio Wales and television programmes
• Iolo Williams presents wildlife programmes on television and is also an author on British wildlife and nature
• S4C the television chanel for Wales

read more... “Burry Port Visited by Television Production Company”

Minister visits Ethnic Youth drop in centre

Dr Brian Gibbons has visited Swansea’s Ethnic Youth Support Team (EYST) drop-in centre to see how the centre is helping young people in the area and improving community relations.

The centre won ITV People’s Millions regional telephone vote in 2008 enabling it to refurbish and upgrade its original centre with its ‘Urban Fix Up’ project.

Young ethnic minority people worked on the refurbishment as trainees to which allowed them to develop basic construction skills while contributing to the community.

The youth centre is now able to serve more young people from diverse backgrounds and run new projects such as the ‘Positive Street Project’ which will receive £150,000 of Welsh Assembly Government funding over the next 3 years.

The project will work with young Muslims to:

• prevent crime and drug misuse;
• prevent violent extremism and radicalisation;
• promote the positive understanding of Islam; and
• address multi-cultural identity issues.

The Minister said:

“I have been very impressed with the new drop-in centre and with the way the young people here are benefiting from the new facilities and opportunities it can offer.

“In the current economic climate, many communities in Wales are facing challenges such as poverty, deprivation, concerns about housing and increased competition for employment and for public services.

"Linked to this there may also be increased fears and misconceptions around the impact of increased economic migration.

“As part of the Assembly Government’s ongoing commitment to promote a fair and just society and to support cohesion we are developing the All Wales Community Cohesion Strategy which sets out how we support people to get along together, to live alongside each other harmoniously.

"It is about looking at the common values that join everyone together and the EYST’s work is an excellent example of how we can achieve this by working together."

Rocio Cifuentes, Director of the EYST, said:

“We are delighted that the Minister has taken the time to visit our centre. Now, more than ever, young people need positive role models and positive activities to enable them to feel a valued part of society.

"Thanks to this support from the Welsh Assembly Government we can now expand our provision to young people in Swansea and help make it a better and safer place.”

read more... “Minister visits Ethnic Youth drop in centre”

North Wales - The Next Step

The Welsh Rugby Union has announced a series of major initiatives aimed at the continued development of the game in North Wales in line with the strategic plan for the area as a development Region

The proposals include launching a North Wales Rugby Academy and an innovative plan to introduce Rugby Canada international players to the development region's representative team.

The WRU has been working with partners including Rugby Canada and the IRB, and subject to approval from the Board of Rugby Canada next month, this proposal will be launched in January 2010.

The Board of the Welsh Rugby Union has also awarded club status to the Gogledd Cymru representative team in order to allow the side to develop strategically within the governance of the WRU.

Under the WRU and Rugby Canada initiative, it is proposed that a number of players, funded by Canada, will be based in north Wales to play for the region.

They will form the basis of the representative squad which will be completed with individuals from within north Wales.

The scheme is projected to last for up to five years and the number of Canadians in north Wales will be reduced year on year as the academy system delivers more quality players into the north Wales system.

The initiative is designed to offer the north Wales team an opportunity to compete for a chance to achieve Premiership status within a realistic time-scale.

The plan is linked to existing developments which include the identification of Parc Eirias in Colwyn Bay as the home base of the club with the full support of Conwy County Borough Council. It will also be the home of the new North Wales Rugby Academy.

A non-profitable Cooperative Community Interest Company has been established to maximise financial and operational support for the development of representative rugby.

The North Wales Rugby Academy will provide a focus for a sustainable pathway for players and coaches in north Wales which builds on existing development programmes within the region.

That means the major areas of player development including all technical, tactical, psychological, physical and lifestyle support will be fully available and operational within the North Wales Rugby Academy programme.

The Welsh Rugby Union has described the initiatives as a clear indication of the desire to maximise the development of all players, coaches and match officials from North Wales as outlined in the WRU strategic plan.

The Rugby Canada Board meets in September where the financial aspects of the initiative to bring Canadian internationals to Wales will be looked at in depth.

The scheme is also seen as a means to help Rugby Canada utilise the WRU structure to develop its own current international player base.

WRU Head of Rugby, Performance and Development Joe Lydon said, "These measures have been put in place in order to accelerate the progression of Rygbi Gogledd Cymru as a team, and the identification and development of rugby in North Wales.

"Bringing young, Canadian squad players to North Wales will enable the north Wales team to be a competitive, semi-professional level side almost immediately. It will enable attractive fixtures to take place at Parc Eirias, which will hopefully help to increase the interest and participation levels in rugby in North Wales.

"Our aim throughout this is to raise the standard of rugby players in north Wales for the long term and the establishment of an academy in north Wales will help to identify and nurture that talent for the future, while at the same time, they will be exposed to a high standard of competitive rugby.

"There will also be a clear benefit to Canada, a development rugby nation."

Peredur Jenkins, WRU Board member for north Wales said:

"The north Wales rugby community welcomes these exciting and innovative plans. They will provide an opportunity for north Wales based players to achieve their full potential within the region. The flow of players from this region to the national teams at all levels will undoubtedly increase. These developments are the result of a close working partnership between the WRU, North Wales Rugby Council, Conwy Borough County Council and the Gogledd Cymru CIC - all parties striving to fulfill the strategies and goals of the WRU's Strategic Plan for North Wales."

WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis said "Rugby is the national sport of Wales. It defines us as a nation. The strategy for Rygbi Gogledd Cymru is vitally important not only for our rugby development but also for the unity of Wales."

Rygbi Gogledd Cymru chairman Kenton Morgan said:

"Being recognised as a club is another step in our implementation of the WRU strategic plan.

"Conwy County Borough Council's support in the development of Parc Eirias and the consequent regeneration potential for Colwyn Bay has been of tremendous benefit to this relationship. This new WRU plan fits our innovative approach to the progression of north Wales rugby and dovetails the needs of Gogledd Cymru with those of Rugby Canada.

"Canadian players will benefit massively from these high quality fixtures and the rugby culture of the region, which although less well recognised, is just as passionate, as that in other areas of Wales. They will be young men, away from home and we look forward to welcoming them into the team and to facilitating mutual rugby development and friendships."

Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Leader, Conwy County Borough Council said, "This is a very exciting announcement for rugby in north Wales. We are delighted to be part of the project and we believe it will help to inspire and encourage more young people to participate and will help develop the sport in the region."

IRB Head of Development and Performance Mark Egan said, "This is an excellent initiative which will offer young players from both nations the opportunity to achieve their full potential and, if approved in full, will clearly benefit rugby in both Wales and Canada."

Geraint John, High Performance Director, Rugby Canada said, "We are excited and hopeful this project will be able to proceed because of the clear benefits it will deliver to both Wales and Canada by helping to develop our young players."

read more... “North Wales - The Next Step”

Pedestrian-friendly improvements to Cardiff City Centre

Significant improvements will come into force in Cardiff city centre this October as the area continues to become more pedestrian-friendly. A brighter and safer environment will become a reality as changes to both pedestrian and traffic access commence from Mill Lane through The Hayes to St John Street.

The enhancements are part of an exciting time for Cardiff and form an invaluable function in transforming the city into a truly exceptional European capital, proudly placed on the international map.

Cardiff Council is dedicated to enhancing the city for those living, visiting and working within it and the commitment to more pedestrian-friendly environments will also ensure both historic buildings and new developments are easily accessible and fully appreciated by all.

From October 15th 2009 Mill Lane, Caroline Street, The Hayes, Working Street and St John Street will become pedestrianised from 10am to midnight, seven days a week. These streets will be closed to private vehicles. There will be access for delivery vehicles to businesses between midnight and 10am, seven days a week. In exceptional circumstances customers will also be able to collect exceptionally large items before 10am, seven days a week.

Access will be controlled by rising bollards which will be connected to the joint control room operated by the Council and South Wales Police. A permit system will also be introduced to allow 24 hour access to private off-street parking.

The area around the Hayes is steeped in history with a number of buildings dating back more than a hundred years. St Johns Church and gardens, The Old Library, the former David Morgan building, Royal and Morgan Arcades, Howells and Spillers Records are just a few examples of the built heritage that has helped to shape the Welsh capital. They have since been joined by St David’s Hall and recent improvements to both Mill Lane and The Brewery Quarter, Caroline Street.

With the arrival of the New Cardiff Library, the impressive St David’s Dewi Sant shopping centre and its flagship store John Lewis, another new era is beginning and the improvements coming into force will help complement the new retail development and make access safe and easy.

Cardiff Council Leader Rodney Berman said:

"Cardiff’s success is building and its future remains increasingly bright. The city is continually being recognised both nationally and internationally for the vast improvements we are making; not just in the city centre but across Cardiff as a whole.

"These are incredibly exciting times and with the official opening of St David’s Dewi Sant we will also have the introduction of pedestrian-friendly environments designed to aid access for all, safeguard pedestrians and create an area fitting of this important new development.

"What we are doing around the Hayes also shows our continued commitment to making Cardiff a Sustainable Travel City by reducing congestion in the long-term and improving travel by foot, bike and public transport. A new park and ride site off the A48 at Cardiff East, improved bus services providing more varied access into the city centre, the Pont-y-Werin Bridge connecting Cardiff and Penarth and a Smart bike scheme will all soon be joining our other developments.

"Cardiff is a vibrant city with a rising global standing and I look forward to seeing these many projects in their finished forms."

read more... “Pedestrian-friendly improvements to Cardiff City Centre”

Get in touch with your local Age Concern

An all Wales charity network is inviting older people to get in touch to find out what it can do for them.

Members of the Age Concern Partnership Wales provide services to improve the lives of older people across the country.

Christine Thomas, Age Concern Partnership Wales Officer explains:

“There are Age Concerns right across Wales, each providing a different programme of services to meet the needs of local people in the area it serves.

“The type of services provided by your local Age Concern will depend on where you live, but these can range from providing general information and advice, to running befriending schemes, to practical assistance with everyday matters, to help with filling in benefit forms.”

Christine continues:

“Age Concerns exist to make life better for older people by providing life-enhancing services where they are needed by older people.

“That’s why we’re inviting older people, their families and friends to get in touch with us today to find out what we can do to make your life, or the life of one of your friends or family members, that bit better.”

For more information about your local Age Concern, please contact Christine Thomas on 029 20 431 576, or send an email to Christine.Thomas@accymru.org.uk

read more... “Get in touch with your local Age Concern”

Regional Age Grade Championship - season preview

After a summer during which the success of the Welsh Rugby Union's Age Grade championship was there for all to see, the 2009-10 season is poised to kick off on Sunday.

Moving into its sixth season, the competition has played a significant role in helping some of current Wales coach Warren Gatland's brightest youngsters establish themselves amongst the best players in the world.

What's more, when the British and Irish Lions squad was announced at the end of last season, the WRU was toasting its own significant investment in a tournament that has captured the imagination of all those involved since its inception back in 2004.

Lion kings Alun Wyn Jones and Leigh Halfpenny were both products of the system that the Union's head of rugby, performance and development Joe Lydon is hoping will once again bear fruit. And whilst there will be no formal under 20 competition this term, Lydon, the academy coaches and the national age grade selectors will certainly have their eye fixed firmly on the under 16 and under 18 tournaments as they swing into action.

Halfpenny, who was prolific throughout his five years in the competition, will always remember the days when he went to battle with the Ospreys. "Great days," said the Cardiff Blues wing. "It was crucial in our development that we had strong competition on a regular basis. The age grade tournament provided that and whilst the emphasis was obviously on developing players who would be good enough to go and make senior regional and international players, there was intense rivalry too. We all wanted to win the competition."

Last season it was the Blues North who lifted the under 16 crown, beating the Scarlets 16-13 in a tense affair at the Talbot Athletic Ground. And though the under 18 competition was as tight as it had been in any one of the previous four seasons, it was the Ospreys, for the fourth time, who took the spoils with a consummate 26-15 victory over the Scarlets.

So, for the Scarlets' region, Sunday's games against North Wales at Llandovery's Church Bank ground, represents an early chance to make up for last season's finals day disappointment.

In contrast, it was a challenging first season for North Wales, whose lack of physicality and conditioning left them trailing in the wake of the senior regions, despite putting in some impressive performances. Still, for performance development manager Marc Roberts, the experience of playing alongside the Ospreys, Scarlets, Blues and Dragons, will hold his sides in good stead for this term and beyond.

"I think we learned a great deal from our first season," said Roberts. "We realise that we are behind the other regions, especially in terms of our physicality and conditioning, but we have started to address that in the summer and are confident that we have made a few strides.

"Obviously we are not going to close the gap overnight and yes, this season will once again be tough for our sides. However, it took the Blues North three seasons to win a game and we achieved that in our first season. If we can build on those three victories and become more competitive, especially at under 18 level where our lack of physicality was exposed, we will all be very pleased.

"On top our conditioning, we have spent the summer working on our core skills, at under 12 to 14 levels so that when these boys come to step into the competition at 15 and 16, they will be well placed. It's an exciting time for North Wales rugby and I know that everyone is looking forward to the big kick off this weekend."

The Ospreys, Blues and Dragons will all kick start their campaigns next week with all three keen to get up and running ahead of what promises to be another outstanding season of age grade.

read more... “Regional Age Grade Championship - season preview”

New Strategy must radically reduce teenage pregnancies says AM

A new strategy aimed at giving a renewed focus to improving sexual health services in Wales, must also radically reduce "unacceptably high teenage pregnancy rates" in parts of the country, according to Wrexham's Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths.

The AM was commenting as a consultation process initiated by the Welsh Assembly Government on developing a new strategy on sexual health, draws to a conclusion.

The 'Sexual Health and Wellbeing for Wales, 2009 - 2014: Draft Working Paper', aims to:

• develop a society that supports open discussion about relationships , sex, and sexuality;
• increase sexual health and relationships literacy;
• improve access to good quality sexual health services;
• reduce the number of unintended pregnancies, particularly among teenage girls;
• reduce the rates of new sexually transmitted infections (STI) and HIV;
• improve the health and social care for people living with HIV;
• reduce the number of new diagnoses of sexually transmitted Hepatitis B and the number of people at risk; and
• strengthen the monitoring, surveillance and research of the population's sexual health and well-being.

In order to meet these aims, the draft paper recommends that action will be required by:

• local health organisations;
• health service planners;
• local authorities;
• third sector providers; and
• Welsh Assembly Government

Lesley Griffiths believes the plan creates a unique opportunity to tackle, what she has previously described as "unacceptably high teenage pregnancy rates" in parts of Wales, including Wrexham County Borough.

The latest available official statistics show that in Wrexham, between 2004-2006, the average conception rates for under 18 year olds stood at 61.3 pregnancies per 1,000 girls aged between 15 and 17.

The Welsh average figure stood at 44.5 pregnancies per 1,000 girls aged between 15 and 17.

By comparison, in Monmouthshire, the average conception rates for under 18s in the period 2004-2006 ranged from 28.6 per thousand girls aged 15-17.

For the same period, English conception rates for under 18s ranged from 33.0 per thousand girls aged 15-17 in the South West of England to 48.8 in the North East of England.

Commenting on her call on the need for action, Lesley Griffiths AM said:

"I am encouraged that reducing teenage pregnancy is firmly on the Welsh Assembly Government's agenda. Compared to the rest of the UK and other countries in Europe, Wales has unacceptably high teenage pregnancy rates and it is clear action needs to be taken.

"I recently met with the Minister for Health, Edwina Hart, in Wrexham to discuss this issue and I know she is committed to bring about change in Wales and reduce the numbers of unintended teenage pregnancies.

"In other countries where teenage pregnancy rates are much less than we have in Wales, relevant sex education is one of main tools they have used to keep their rates in check. I want to see a complete review of the sex education element of the Welsh curriculum. I hope this review examines such as issues as teacher training and increasing the amount of time dedicated to actual teaching sex education and sexual health, in the classroom."

For more information on the sexual health and wellbeing consultation process, please visit the Welsh Assembly Government website at: www.wales.gov.uk or email: sexualhealth@wales.gsi.gov.uk or by calling the Welsh Assembly Government's Health Improvement Division on: 02920 825334

read more... “New Strategy must radically reduce teenage pregnancies says AM”

Criminal damage caused to Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after criminal damage was caused at a school in Penygroes.

Sometime overnight between Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th August three windows were smashed at Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have information about the incident, or to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behaviour around the school to contact officers at either Penygroes or Caernarfon Police Station on 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively you can send a text message to 66767 or email – northwalespolice@north-wales.police.uk

read more... “Criminal damage caused to Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle”

Chair Stolen in Rhosgadfan

An appeal for information is being made following the theft of a chair from an address in Rhosgadfan.

Sometime between 16th June and 14th July 2009 a burglary occurred whereby a wooden chair was stolen from an outbuilding at an address in the village.

The 100-year-old chair, which has a high back and a distinctive design, is hand-made and is of sentimental value to the owner.

Enquiries have so far proved negative and anyone who may have information, or anyone who may know the whereabouts of the chair is asked to contact PC Phil Owen at Penygroes Police Station on 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively you can send a text message to 66767 or email – northwalespolice@north-wales.police.uk

read more... “Chair Stolen in Rhosgadfan”

Principality Premiership season set to kick-off

Paul Moriarty couldn't have asked for a better way to start his new career as director of coaching at Cardiff RFC than a home game on the first weekend of the new style Principality Premiership.

For the reigning champions, home advantage at Cardiff Arms Park was key to their success last season, with only two defeats in 13 matches.

But as well as kicking-off at home, Moriarty will also be pitting his coaching skills and wits against a team and opposite number he knows very well. For the majority of his career he wore the all white kit of Swansea and often had Richard Moriarty packing down alongside him in the back row.

This weekend, though, he will be hoping to turn-over his former club, who are coached by his former rugby union and league team mate Richard Webster. It couldn’t be a better start for Cardiff’s new coach, or the Principality Premiership

“It has been an interesting couple of weeks for myself with the opportunity to front up the coaching here at Cardiff. From a personal point of view, it will be great to be the man in charge at last after a few years of being the forwards coach at the Scarlets,” said Moriarty.

“I obviously have a huge connection with Swansea rugby club and a long standing friendship with Richard, so it will be interesting to see how the first game goes

“Cardiff is a great club with everything in place that you could wish for. There are two great coaches here in Lee Jarvis and Howard Stone and the training facilities are excellent at Treforest.

“Then, of course, you have the Arms Park, a world renowned rugby venue, at which to play. I know what outsiders feel about coming to play here and what it means to them to win.

“We have to make sure that, as the capital city and the reigning champions, we make it as difficult as possible for every team that comes to the Arms Park and that we continue with last season’s high standards. I hope we’ve got enough quality here to win back-to-back titles, although that is difficult to do in any competition.

“When you look at the squads in the Premiership and the way that people have recruited, you’d have to say it’s going to be a tougher campaign. There are international players at many teams and week-in-week out we will be coming up against many quality players.”

Among the newcomers to the Premiership will be ex-Welsh internationals Jamie Ringer, who has left the Dragons to return to the Arms Park and Cardiff, Nathan Thomas and Kevin Morgan, who have joined Neath, and Gareth Wyatt, who will be playing for Newport.

Newcomers Carmarthen Quins have recruited Tongan international scrum half Sililo Martens and there are a host of Wales Under 19, 20 and Sevens internationals across all 14 clubs.

The Principality clubs will have a new season format to play in this term with the Swalec Cup split into three specific tournaments, with the Division 1 East and West clubs joining the Premiership sides for the top competition and the top six from last year’s league playing in the British & Irish Cup competition, and the pressure will be greater than ever before.

With a new play-off system being introduced for the first time as well, it means there is everything to play for in 2009/10.

“The play-off system is a great idea and the British & Irish Cup is going to be superb. It will give our players the chance to see at what standard their game is,” added Moriarty. “They might not be full time professionals, but they are still getting paid to play the game. So playing the likes of the Munster and Leinster academies, as well as the Division 1 clubs in England, will give our players the chance to show what sort of quality there is at this level in Welsh rugby and see how competitive we are.

“I think it will be good for these players to find out just how good they are. It was always great to play against teams from other countries in the amateur era and to find out how you compared.

“Now they will have that chance again, as well as being able to carry on with all the traditional Welsh rivalries. There couldn’t be a better time to be involved in the Principality Premiership.”

read more... “Principality Premiership season set to kick-off”

Carnival time in Llantrisant

Children in Llantrisant staged a colourful carnival with costumes they created themselves.

More than 130 youngsters took part in workshops at Penygawsi Community Centre, when they created costumes, the set and masks and had a bash at samba drumming, dancing and drama.

The week culminated in a carnival show, which the children's parents were invited to. The workshops were funded by Fframwaith and ESF and developed through Rhondda Cynon Taf Cultural Services and Llantrisant Community Arts.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Youth Arts Co-ordinator Delyth Balman said: "The young people involved in the workshops and performance worked really hard to pull everything together - they were fantastic to work with and there's definitely a few stars in the making!

"It was fantastic to see them all enjoying performing, and to see mums and dads up dancing too! A special thanks to all the tutors who helped make this such a success."

read more... “Carnival time in Llantrisant”

Update: Swansea Beer Festival

We at Welsh Icons always like to be first with the news. With this in mind we have had one of our stringers camping out at the Swansea Beer Festival.

This is what he told us:

"It's a bit wierd being the first staff member on site at the Swansea Bay Beer Festival, the Brangwyn Hall is strangely empty, the only sound coming from the steady chug chug chug of the coolers. The sun is shining through the windows of the hall , illuminating the bar and murals. I will be enjoying the peace and quiet whilst I can as the Festival opens today at 12."

For more information about the Swansea Beer Festival including a full listings of the beers see our earlier report.

read more... “Update: Swansea Beer Festival”

Moriarty and Shellard at Arms Park helm

Principality Premiership champions Cardiff set out on the defence of their title on Saturday under the direction of a new coach and with a new captain.

Former Scarlets' forwards supremo Paul Moriarty has been appointed director of coaching while Rhys Shellard will be club captain for the new campaign.

Team manager Gafyn Cooper said, “Last year was a breakthrough season for us but as a club we are very conscious that we have to build on that success. Finishing runners-up and then champions in successive seasons came about only after several years of player development and establishing a positive coaching environment.

“Paul's appointment is sure to carry on that progress but everyone is aware that it will be even harder to maintain our success in the coming months. Confirming Rhys as captain, a role he took over with great success in the closing weeks of last season, is another important ingredient. He has the full support of all the squad and now we are looking forward to the big kick-off against Swansea on Saturday.”

For the visit of Swansea to the Arms Park (kick-off 2.30pm), the Blue & Blacks' squad has a familiar look with only two new faces in the starting line-up.

Former UWIC wing Matthew John features in a back division that also includes Tom Slater who won Wales under-20 and Barbarians' honours before returning to south Wales from Coventry this summer.

Three other recruits, Daniel Preest, Ashley Sweet and Dan Godfrey, are named as replacement forwards while Garyn Lucas returns to the club after a year's interval.

Team : Craig Morgan; Ryan Howells, Shaun James, Darren Ryan, Matthew John; Gareth Davies, Tom Slater; Ian George, Rhys James, Phil Osborne, Matthew Veater, James Down, Jake Thomas, Adam Powell, Rhys Shellard (captain)

Replacements: Garry Horrigan, Daniel Preest, Ashley Sweet, Dan Godfrey, Garyn Lucas, Lee Jarvis, Richard Jones

read more... “Moriarty and Shellard at Arms Park helm”

Don't Jump the Gun

Householders taking part in a new pilot food waste scheme are being urged not to jump the gun.

Around 6,000 households across the County are taking part in a trial run of Pembrokeshire County Council's new food waste collection scheme.

Although specially designed food waste bins and kitchen caddy's for unwanted food have already been distributed to those taking part in the pilot, the food waste collection service will not start until the week begining Monday September 7th.

Now the County Council's refuge collection service is reminding people not to leave their food waste out too early as it will not be collected.

The pilot food waste collection scheme starts on Sept 7th when the food waste will be collected in specially designed vehicles, along with orange recycling bags, on householders' designated rubbish collection day.

If the pilot project is successful the scheme will be rolled out across the County over the next 12 months.

read more... “Don't Jump the Gun”

Mascots on their marks for sprint battle

Mascots of all shapes and sizes from Swansea are set to take their marks for a charity dash.

Rocky the Road Safety Rooster, Arnie the Active Swansea Aardvark and Barcy the Nando's Chicken Cockerel are among those to have started training for a 100-metre race next month.

The battle of the mascots on Sunday September 27 takes place immediately after the start of the Admiral Swansea Bay 10k on the Swansea foreshore.

Hearty the Heart and Dylan the Dog will be on hand to represent The Wave and Swansea Sound and the Gladiator has confirmed he'll be running for Gladiator Van Insurance.

The Admiral, the 2008 champion, will also be sprinting to defend his title.

Frances Jenkins, Swansea Council's Strategic Manager for Tourism, Marketing and Events, said: "The mascot race is a popular addition to this exciting day out and cheering on their favourite mascot is something all the family can get involved in.

"Each mascot has been training hard for this special race and the expectation of the competitors is very high. It'll be great fun to watch and see who will emerge as this year's champion."

Sue Longthorn, Admiral MD, said: "This fun race is very popular with the mascots and the kids really love it.

"The Admiral and Gladiator placed first and second last year and we're hoping for a repeat performance.

"We've heard a rumour, however, that they may have to run with their legs tied together this time around so this could have an impact on the result!"

Anyone interested in entering a mascot for the 100-metre dash should ring Karen Betts in Swansea Council's Special Events Team on 01792 635457.

Entries for the main 10k event are nearly full so anyone who wants to take part should get their entries in soon.

Full details are available at www.swanseabay10k.com

The Admiral Swansea Bay 10k is kindly supported by Admiral, Active Swansea, Day's Motor Group, Mizuno, Moti, The Wave and Swansea Sound.

The event is part of the Swansea Bay Summer Festival.

read more... “Mascots on their marks for sprint battle”

An Unsung Hero

William Reed was a marine engineer who got caught up in the fighting on the Mesopotamian Front during the First World War.

As well as supporting the British Army in its fight with the Turks, the young merchant navy seaman took part in a doomed attempt to relieve one of the longest sieges in military history.

By the time the fighting ended in 1918 both his own life and the course of history in the Middle East had been transformed.

Now his granddaughter, Jo Hammond, has written an account of his time in Iraq based on his diaries.

Battle in Iraq weaves together William Reed's personal story, as revealed in his diaries, with the wider historic events of the time.

It will be launched at Haverfordwest Library next month.

"Through my grandfather's personal story I hope to shine a light on a part of history that is very little known about," said Jo from Narberth.

"Everyone knows what happened in Europe and Gallipoli but not many people know what happened in what is now Iraq. And there are so many parallels with what is happening in recent times and what happened then."

Jo, who moved to Pembrokeshire with her family 12 years ago, never knew her grandfather, who died before she was born.

"My mother didn't talk about her father a lot but I knew that he had been in Mesopotamia during the First World War and occasionally she showed us his medal," she said.

"When she died I looked at his diaries for the first time and realised exactly what he had been doing.

"He was an engineer not a writer so his diaries are very matter of fact, but they tell a moving and often brave story."

William Reed arrived in what is now Iraq at the outbreak of the First World War. His vessel, which shipped supplies and troops up and down the Tigris river, became caught up in an attempt to relieve the siege of the British garrison at Kut- el-Amara.

The165- day siege was one of the longest in military history and, said Jo, like many similar ventures in the First World War, doomed to failure.

"It was one of those hopeless causes which they knew was dangerous as they only asked single men to volunteer for it," she said.

"Of course they got caught and my grandfather like the rest of the ship's company was incarcerated in prison in Turkey for two years."

After the war William Reed was given the DSO for his bravery but despite his experiences returned to the region and married an Iraqi woman, Jo's grandmother.

He died in Haifa in his fifties bequeathing not only his diaries to his family but also his love of adventure.

Two of Jo's four sons are also in the Merchant Navy - as is her husband- and her book - her first - is dedicated to the Merchant Navy.

It will be launched at Haverfordwest Library on Tuesday 8th September at 6.30pm. The event has been organised by Pembrokeshire's cultural services department and publishers I.B.Tauris. Josephine will also be on hand to talk about her book and answer questions.

Entry is free but places should be booked in advance. If you would like to attend the launch call in at the library or phone 01437 775244 or email christine.willison@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Photograph: Jo Hammond with a picture of her grandfather

read more... “An Unsung Hero”

Responding to the Housing Challenge

Members of the public are invited to attend a housing conference which will discuss how key organisations in the field can help to improve the supply, quality, affordability and suitability of the county's housing.

Leading experts will discuss a range of housing issues during the event staged by the Gwynedd Housing Partnership and the Gwynedd Together Forum on 11 September.

The conference will give an opportunity to discuss the local housing situation - including various affordable housing initiatives, work to bring empty properties back into use and ensuring suitable accommodation for vulnerable adults. It will also give delegates the opportunity to discuss the fact that the recent decision by Gwynedd tenants to vote to transfer ownership and management of their homes to Gwynedd Community Homes has unlocked an estimated £136 million of investment over the coming few years.

Gwynedd Council's Senior Portfolio Leader for Care, Councillor John Wyn Williams said:

"The international economic downturn obviously has its knock-on effect on the housing sector. This important housing conference will be an excellent opportunity for key organisations in the field in Gwynedd to discuss various projects housing projects.

"Those attending the housing conference will have a chance to discuss this and much more. We would urge members of the public and other interested parties who want to be to discuss these important issues to attend the conference and have their say. Anyone wanting to book a place should contact the team as soon as possible."

The conference held at Technium Cast at Parc Menai, Bangor on 11 September will also include the launch of the Gwynedd Together annual report. Those attending will have an opportunity to hear about the progress made over the last 12 months and the new ways of joint working across the range of organisations providing local services in Gwynedd.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the event, but you will need to book your place. To make sure you book your seat, contact Morfudd Jones of Gwynedd Council's Housing Strategic Policy Team on 01286 679065 or email: morfuddjones@gwynedd.gov.uk by 1 September.

The Gwynedd Housing Partnership is a joint partnership which includes Gwynedd Council, Cymdeithas Tai Eryri, Cymdeithas Tai Clwyd, North Wales Housing Association, Gwynedd Community Homes, Snowdonia National Park, Landlords Association, estate agents and representatives from the private sector.

read more... “Responding to the Housing Challenge”

Real men read

Wales stars Ryan Jones and Tom Shanklin joined Deputy Minister for Skills John Griffiths at the Millennium Stadium to put their weight behind the 'Read a Million Words Together in Wales' campaign, designed to achieve improved literacy skills among boys aged between 9-14.

Targeting boys through initiatives such as ‘Read a Million Words Together in Wales’ between the ages of 9 and 14 - a critical period for intervention - is vital to close the longstanding literacy gap with their female counterparts and Wales captain Ryan Jones was delighted to take part.

Jones said:

I’m really pleased to be here today to help reward some of the boys who have worked so hard to improve their reading. There is a perception among some boys that reading isn’t cool and we want to change that by getting involved in the campaign. It’s important that boys who fall behind with their reading are helped out with this and praised when they make progress. Well done to all the boys who have received recognition today, keep up the good work. After all, real men read!

The scores of boys from across Wales who have worked hard to boost their reading and writing skills over recent months were rewarded by a meeting with Ryan and Tom at the Millennium Stadium and also Cardiff city favourite, Joe Ledley and Welsh musician Stuart Cable.

The high profile event falls as the Welsh Assembly Government marks the half-way point of the One-Wales programme, and is one of a series of 24 events, one for each month of the programme so far.

The rugby and football players, along with Stuart Cable presented specially designed certificates to boys attending the event who were deemed to have worked particularly hard to raise their reading attainment over the past few months.

As part of the campaign, which was launched with a major conference in Cardiff last October, Basic Skills Cymru provided teachers from across Wales with a range of classroom resources, posters, training workshops and advice to help them engage boys with reading.

These resources, together with funding from Basic Skills Cymru, have been used in schools across Wales to develop a range of initiatives to encourage boys to read more. Boys and teachers from many of these schools were present today to receive recognition for their achievements.

TV presenter Jason Mohammad introduced the day’s proceedings, which kicked off with a performance of innovative circus skills. A professional caricaturist drew cartoons of the boys.

Children’s storyteller Michael Harvey’s energetic narrative style and audience participation techniques engaged the boys with a wide repertoire of international stories.

A guided tour of the stadium, a juggling workshop and a workshop helping boys to create their own raps, completed the activities.

Guest speaker Deputy Minister for Skills, John Griffiths said:

The literacy gap between boys and girls has existed right across the UK for some time. It is worrying and it’s vital we ignite boys’ interest and start to make that gap disappear. We made it clear in One Wales that our vision is of a society in which learning through life is the norm, where the people of Wales are actively engaged in acquiring new knowledge and skills from childhood to old age. We are committed to this goal, and this event today, in partnership with Welsh sports and music stars, highlights the range of good work taking place across Wales to capture boys’ imagination. Today however, is most importantly a celebration of the significant efforts that boys all over the country have been putting into improving their reading and writing skills. The benefit of these skills is immeasurable; they will be the key to opening so many doors in their future, to education, employment, and even different worlds through a good book!

read more... “Real men read”

Bank Holiday fun galore for Swansea revellers

REAL ale and world music fans should be licking their lips with excitement at what's in store over Bank Holiday Weekend in Swansea.

The Swansea Bay Beer Festival and World Party Weekend are among the events to have been organised to help entertain residents and visitors.

Other attractions include the ongoing Botanics in Bloom festivities that last until the end of the month.

A two-day jamboree of live music and activities featuring a variety of local bands, accomplished artists, arts and crafts, foods and displays has been organised for World Party Weekend.

A World Village event has been arranged for Saturday August 29 where groups will have the opportunity to showcase their respective cultures, cuisines and costumes in around nine marquees.

And representatives of the Chinese, Arab, Muslim, African, Filipino, Latin American, Brazilian, Bangladeshi, Barakah, Gurkha, Polish, Indian and Thai communities will be on hand throughout the day to run a series of workshops and offer visitors an insight into their countries and customs.

Menter Iaith Abertawe will also be present.

A Global Music day is taking place on Sunday August 30 where visitors can experience the sights and sounds of soothing jazz, absorbing African rhymes, energetic hip hop, Bollywood dancing and Samba percussion on the main stage.

Music legends Kasai Masai, the Klezmer Festival Music Band, D'taba and Muscovado have been confirmed among the line-up.

This year's event will be supported by the Swansea Bay Racial Equality Council.

Over 100 different real ales will also be on offer at the Brangwyn Hall as well as a huge selection of real ciders and perries during the Swansea Bay Beer Festival from Thursday August 27 to Sunday August 29.

Live music will come from the likes of the Ted Crook Blues Highway and Buttonsville and a selection of food will be available.

A boat safety awareness event is also being held at Knab Rock in Mumbles on Saturday August 29 and Sunday August 30 between 10am and 5pm.

This will include:

• A lifeboat equipment display.
• Lifesaving demonstrations.
• A lifeboat launch.
• A man overboard exercise involving the Mumbles Coastguard Rescue Team, The Mumbles All Weather Lifeboat team and The Mumbles Inshore Lifeboat team.
• Stalls and information clinics.

The demonstrations will last from 1pm to 3pm on both days.

Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: "August Bank Holiday Weekend effectively marks the end of the summer break for many people so it's important a selection of events are arranged to cater for everyone.

"World Party Weekend is something for the whole family to enjoy that's illustrative of how multi-cultural Swansea has become while the Swansea Bay Beer Festival is a treat for fans of real ale.

"Both outdoor and indoor activities have been organised to make sure there's something that will appeal to everyone despite what the weather may bring."

Other events and facilities at your beck and call over Bank Holiday Weekend include:

• The 72-seat Swansea Bay Landrider that's running daily between Mumbles and Blackpill between 10am and 6.30pm.
• The tropical haven of plants and animals at Plantasia in Parc Tawe.
• The selection of sports and activities at the Active Swansea Community Leisure Centre in Penyrheol, Penlan, Morriston and Cefn Hengoed, Bishopston Sports Centre and Swansea Tennis Centre.
• A detective trail for children and ongoing exhibitions at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery.
• The crime and punishment exhibition at Swansea Museum as well as the cabinet of curiosities and floating exhibits on the marina.
• The Saturday Lunchtime Theatre at the Dylan Thomas Centre. Dylan Thomas in America is being shown at 1pm on Saturday August 29.

Have a look at www.swanseabayfestival.com for more information.

read more... “Bank Holiday fun galore for Swansea revellers”

Street Angels in Llandudno

North Wales Police has extended its family even further by recruiting its first Street Angels.

The Llandudno Street Angels are volunteers from local churches who will give up their evenings to ensure everyone can enjoy themselves during the festive period.

Armed with special jackets, hats, personal alarms torches and radios, the 12 Angels will be taking to the streets in pairs initially for six nights, from December 19 to December 31.

The Angels, who will be supported by the Neighbourhood Policing Teams, have been given basic training in first aid, conflict management and health and safety issues and they have also been given an insight into powers of arrest.

Posters and beer mats have been distributed around the pubs and clubs to make everyone aware that the Angels will be patrolling the streets between 9pm and 3am.

The idea came as a result of a connecting communities meeting in Wrexham. This developed and following advertisements in the local churches those willing to take to the streets volunteered their services.

Malcolm Bullock, church steward and worship leader at St David's Church in Craig y Don said: "This is Christian duty. We should not just be behind church walls; we should be out proving our faith. It is wonderful that we are able to assist."

Sgt Jonny Hill explained: "The idea is to help increase the safety of night time visitors to the town. By providing a highly visible reassuring presence we want to enable people to enjoy themselves."

"They will deal with low level stuff, for example giving directions, calling for taxis for anyone who is drunk or in trouble and even handing out goodie bags to the late night revellers."

The Angels will also be expected to keep a note of any crimes they witness and will be able to contact police by means of their radios.

Depending on the success of the trial, the intention is to extend it to other areas of the force.

read more... “Street Angels in Llandudno”

Halfpenny returns to Blues line-up

British Lion Leigh Halfpenny will hand Cardiff Blues a boost with an early return to club duty against Northampton Saints tonight (Fri).

Halfpenny has been out of action since pulling out of the Lions tour to South Africa in June with a thigh injury.

But the Wales wing ace is back for the Blues' final pre-season friendly ahead of next week's Magners League opener.

Halfpenny, 20, said: "It was frustrating to pick up the injury and not be able to play more matches in South Africa.

"I was really pleased with last season but I can't wait to get back on the pitch. I'm young and I hope my chance will come again.

"Playing regularly for the Blues was great but getting selected for Wales and the Lions was a dream come true."

Halfpenny's Lions team-mates Jamie Roberts and Andy Powell have been rested for the clash at the Cardiff City Stadium while Tom Shanklin, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins are out through injury.

read more... “Halfpenny returns to Blues line-up”

Calling budding filmmakers for National Lottery 'Viral Nation' Competition

Are you a budding filmmaker? Do you think you can come up with an idea for a viral video that would appeal to millions of people across the UK?

Would you like to work with a team of experts to see your idea produced into a viral video that gets spread across the internet for everyone to see? Would you like to win a JVC digital Camcorder?

The National Lottery want to see your idea for a film that shows how Lottery funding has changed your life, or those in your community, for the better.

To celebrate its 15th anniversary, The National Lottery is launching a nationwide search for a unique viral idea. Since its launch in 1994, National Lottery players have raised £25 million a week for Good Causes across the UK, with grants given out across the arts, sport, heritage, charities, health, education and the environment. These grants have changed people's lives for the better, and had a positive impact on communities all across the UK.

All submitted ideas will be reviewed by an independent judging panel, made up of digital and industry experts (including film director Nick Hamm, CEO of Viral Video Chart Scott Button, and Gail Egan of Potboiler Productions).

The judges will be looking for creative, simple, thought-provoking films, rather than ideas for lavish or overcomplicated productions. They will pick their top five ideas, and these five finalists will then have to 'sell' their ideas to the public with a short film which will be uploaded to YouTube and Vimeo, where the public will vote. The idea with the most votes from the public wins.

The winner will then work alongside an award-winning digital agency and film director Nick Hamm, on a one-day shoot with a film crew, lighting, wardrobe, hair and make-up, to turn the winning idea into a viral video. The viral video will then be distributed across the web, and the winner will also receive a JVC GZ-MS120 Silver Camcorder, which makes uploading videos to YouTube even easier with a "one touch YouTube upload button", for simple and almost instant upload to the web.

Simply describe your one-minute viral video idea in 300 words or less, using our downloadable entry form which you can find on the National Lottery website: www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk The deadline for entries is 5pm on Monday 14 September 2009.

read more... “Calling budding filmmakers for National Lottery 'Viral Nation' Competition”

Thomas named as All Blacks captain

Former Wales outside-half Arwel Thomas has been named as captain of Neath for 2009/10 and will lead the Welsh All Blacks into action in their opening Principality Premiership tie at Bedwas on Saturday.

The Trebanos-born pivot only recently confirmed his intention to carry on playing after hinting at retirement following Neath's Cup Final win over Llanelli last May but Neath's Director of Rugby Patrick Horgan and his coaching team have wasted no time in handing Arwel the reins of leadership.

Horgan said, "Arwel has all the necessary attributes to fulfil the role. There are not many more experienced operators in the Premiership and, as the last two Cup Finals have shown, Arwel can run and control a game like no other.

"We have leaders throughout the Neath team with senior hands like Kevin Farrell, Martin Jones and Gareth Gravell there too and they are primed to play a key role as well as we seek to build our on-field leadership.

"Arwel is greatly enthused by the prospect of leading Neath. He is an outstanding rugby talent with a deep understanding and knowledge of the Game. While he hasn't captained too many sides, he has played under some excellent leaders in his long and successful career and will bring that experience to bear.

"There has been a real buzz in the air about training and Arwel is relishing the challenge of bringing Neath continued success. Having joined Neath as a youth in 1993, he knows exactly what makes Neath tick and is a huge favourite with our supporters."

read more... “Thomas named as All Blacks captain”

Appeal following robberies

North Wales Police are appealing for witnesses and information following two separate robberies in Rossett and Penymynydd last night (Thursday, 27th August).

The first incident occurred at around 22:00hrs whereby a 17-year-old youth was standing at the bus stop on Station Road in Rossett when a car pulled up beside him.

Two men came out of the vehicle, a red Vauxhall Corsa, and threatened the 17-year-old with what is believed to be a knife before taking his mobile phone.

Both men got back into the car which then went towards the direction of Wrexham.

The second incident happened a short while later at approx 23:15hrs on the A5104 in Penymynydd.

A 17-year-old was walking along the road between the Penymynydd roundabout and Dobshill when a red Vauxhall Corsa stopped beside him.

The passenger asked for a lighter. The driver then got out of the vehicle and asked for a lighter and then threatened the victim with a knife before taking his mobile phone. The driver then got back into the car which then travelled towards the general direction of Chester.

The Corsa was later found abandoned in the Lache area of Chester. This has now been seized and is being forensically examined.

Both victims were left shocked but uninjured by the incidents.

Enquiries are ongoing and police are appealing for anyone who may have information regarding either incident, or to anyone who may have seen a red Vauxhall Corsa in either the Rossett or Penymynydd areas last night to contact officers.

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Wrexham CID on 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) 0845 607 1002 (English line) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively you can send a text message to 66767 or email – northwalespolice@north-wales.police.uk

read more... “Appeal following robberies”

Unbeaten Wanderers begin league campaign

For the opening game of the season the Wanderers give league debuts to Matt Trowbridge, Mazin Al-Azzawi and Iuean Dobbs who have all figured prominently in the unbeaten pre season fixtures.
Youth product Ryan Healey, who burst into the first XV at the end of last season, starts on the wing and he is joined out wide by Steve Cullen who missed a lot of last season through injury.

Scott Sneddon, last season's top Premiership scorer starts at outside half and there is a return to the squad for Harry Trelawney who missed all last season with an injury.

Glamorgan Wanderers: Backs: 15. Charlie Johnson 14. Steve Cullen 13. Matt Trowbridge 12. Robin Lock 11. Ryan Healey 10. Scott Sneddon 9. Lloyd Williams Forwards: 1. Nathan Trevett 2. Iuean Dobbs 3. Mark O'Leary 4. Gareth Knight 5. Richard Thomas © 6. Mazin Al-Azzawi 7. Ben Rose 8. Josh Navidi Replacements: 16. Iuean Davies 17. Scott Andrews 18. Alex Luff 19. Mike Grimes 20. Harry Trelawney 21. Dan Fish 22. Gareth Morris

read more... “Unbeaten Wanderers begin league campaign”

BBC Executive's County Hall Visit

The Head of Sport for BBC Wales, Haverfordwest-born Geoff Williams, was a guest of Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman, Councillor Anne Hughes, recently.

Geoff - an old boy of Haverfordwest Grammar School - learnt his trade with the Western Telegraph before joining the South Wales Echo in Cardiff.

At the BBC, his roles have included Senior Producer on Wales Today; Editor of Meet for Lunch and Editor of Radio Wales News and Managing Editor of Sport.

He was appointed Head of Sport earlier this year, succeeding former Olympic hurdler and ex-Cardiff and Wales rugby international, Nigel Walker.

Geoff was presented with a Council tie and a paperweight as a memento of his visit to County Hall, Haverfordwest.

Photograph: Geoff Williams with Councillor Hughes

read more... “BBC Executive's County Hall Visit”