Apprentice hunt at mining museum

30 July 2011 Last updated at 11:12 GMT Conservation is an important part of the job for Big Pit engineers A mining museum in south Wales has launched an apprenticeship scheme to recruit its next generation of staff.

Although digging for coal has long since ended at Big Pit at Blaenavon, the qualification will give trainees the skills to work in a mine.

It has joined forces with Gower College Swansea to train aspiring young engineers.

Just over half of the museum's 65 staff are former miners, including 12 directly employed in engineering roles.

Mine manager Peter Walker said: "Coalmining has provided employment for generations of men in south Wales.

"It's really rewarding to be involved in creating the next generation of miners."

Officially known as the National Coal Museum, Big Pit was a working mine until 1980 and became a visitor attraction three years later.

Managers of the award-winning visitor attraction said that like the UK mining industry as a whole they had previously relied on engineers trained by the the former National Coal Board.

But they said an upsurge in the sector's fortunes with a growth in small private mines had led to increasing opportunities for new entrants.

The Big Pit scheme is aimed at attracting younger people who want to specialise in mechanical and electrical engineering.

Continue reading the main story

Coalmining has provided employment for generations of men in south Wales, and it's really rewarding to be involved in creating the next generation of miners”

End Quote Peter Walker Mine manager, Big Pit museum It marks the culmination of a plan to train apprentices first unveiled in 2008.

Two trainees will be hired and will be given day release to study a four year NVQ Level 3 course at Gower College Swansea.

Mr Walker said: "The apprentices' time will be split between their academic studies and practical work here at Big Pit, learning about both the engineering and visitor sides of our operations.

"In the latter part of their apprenticeships they will be trained in mines rescue and join existing staff who work part time with the Mines Rescue Service.

Dave Cranmer, engineering learning area manager at Gower College Swansea, said: "Over the past few years there has been a real resurgence in the local mining industry and we are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting new training programme."

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Monk eyes Manchester City opener

Monk has been unable to train with the rest of the squad for the past fortnight Swansea City captain Garry Monk says he is winning his battle to be fit for the beginning of the Premier League season.

Monk has not featured in any of Swansea's pre-season games and has been training on his own over the past fortnight because of a foot injury.

But the 32-year-old is hoping to play in Sunday's friendly in Austria and his target is to lead the side out against Manchester City on 15 August.

"I'm pushing my case to play," said centre back Monk.

"Maybe I will get a few minutes [on Sunday], but that's the manager's call."

Monk picked up the injury towards the end of last season, which ended with Swansea beating Reading in the Championship Play-off final at Wembley to claim their place in the Premier League for the first time in their history.

A Monday night televised match at Etihad Stadium awaits them in their opening fixture, a match Monk had been expected to miss according to manager Brendan Rodgers.

But a gradual recovery from his injury has given Monk fresh hope of forcing his way into the side.

Continue reading the main story 1-0 loss to Neath3-1 win over Port Talbot2-0 win over Afan Lido3-1 win over Inter Bakuv United Arab Emirates Olympic team (31 Jul, Austria)v Celtic (3 Aug, home)v Real Betis (6 Aug, home)

"We have worked so hard to the get to the Premier League and we are all looking forward to it," he told Swansea City's website.

"I must have had around 20 injections in the build up to the play-off final, but it was worth it.

"I don't want to miss out on the opening game, but despite being captain I know there is no player that is certain of his spot.

"We've brought in Steven Caulker on loan, while I'm competing with Ash [Williams] and Tatey [Alan Tate] too.

"It's great for the manager, but we all want to play.

"To lead the club out onto the pitch for the opening game would be a massive thing for me.

"Getting back to the top flight was always my ambition, and I'm delighted I've done that with Swansea."

Swansea's pre-season preparations continue on Sunday with a match against the United Arab Emirates Olympic team in Bishophofen, near Salzburg.

Rodgers will take a close look at goalkeeper Gerhard Tremmel, who has joined on a week's trial.

The 32-year-old German was recently released by Salzburg, having played 28 games for the Austrian Bundesliga side last season.

Swansea have turned their attention to other targets after failing with ?2m bid for Fulham's David Stockdale.

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No development for 'eyesore' pier

30 July 2011 Last updated at 07:57 GMT The site of the former pier pavilion at Llandudno is now overgrown A new report suggests that an "eyesore" derelict pier pavilion in Llandudno is unlikely to be developed in the near future.

Fire destroyed the structure in 1994, and the site has lain empty apart from a few pieces of ironwork since then.

Conwy council says its appearance risks damaging the town's image for tourists.

The site is privately owned and the council said it was still waiting for feedback from the owner as to any plans for the future.

The council report notes that the site lies in a focal position within the designated Llandudno Conservation Area.

There are numerous listed buildings in the vicinity of the site, including The Grand Hotel which is Grade II and the Pier itself which is Grade II*.

The Great Orme provides the backdrop to the site and, together with the whole town, is included in the Conwy and Creuddyn Historic Landscape of Outstanding Interest.

The remains of the Pier Pavilion structure also retain their listed status.

The council says it has been trying to keep in touch with the pier pavilion's owner via his agent.

It says it has been pressing the agent to get his client to reveal any plans for the site and although "pre-application discussions" have taken place it says no formal consultations have been undertaken to date.

The building was damaged in a fire in 1994

The council's Community Overview and Scrutiny Committee will be told that Cadw - which looks after historical monuments in Wales - considers it be an extremely important site in conservation designation terms.

"Its continued undeveloped and unsightly appearance has a negative impact on the attractiveness and image of the town for visitors," states the report.

In conclusion it says: "Without the owner's co-operation, even if planning and listed building consent are eventually granted for the site, there are few mechanisms available to secure implementation of a scheme other than by private sector investment."

Last August David Williams of Llandudno Hospitality Association said it would be better to bulldoze what is left, and the area grassed, if no use can be found for it.

The town's civic trust said last September it would like to see it developed into a museum of the seaside.

"The town was a premier Victorian sea-side resort and I believe Llandudno is the ideal location for a national seaside museum," said the chairman, John Lawson-Reay, at the time.

Conwy council previously said it believed that lifting listed building status on parts of the structure could be key to development.

Councillors will discuss the latest report on Thursday.

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Gobaith i Gymru yng Nghwpan y Byd

Enw Cymru ddaeth allan o'r het gyntaf un

Bydd Cymru yn herio'r Alban yng Ngrwp A Gemau Rhagbrofol Cwpan y Byd 2014.

Daeth yr enwau allan o'r het yn Rio de Janeiro nos Sadwrn.

Yn ymuno a Chymru a'r Alban yng Ngrwp A y mae Serbia, Croatia, Gwlad Belg a Macedonia.

Dim ond 13 lle sydd ar gael i dimau o Ewrop gystadlu ymysg y 32 tim fydd yn brwydro i ennill Cwpan y Bydd ym Mrasil rhwng Mehefin 12 a Gorffennaf 13 2014.

Bydd yr wyth tim fydd yn cipio'r ail safle ym mhob grwp yn gorfod chwarae yn erbyn ei gilydd i ennill eu lle ym Mrasil.

Dywedodd rheolwr tim Cymru, Gary Speed: "Yn amlwg mae hwn yn grwp anodd ond gallai bethau fod wedi bod yn waeth.

"Does dim un tim gwan yn y grwp a gallai bob tim curo bob tim arall."

Dywedodd rheolwr Yr Alban, Graig Levein: "Curon ni Gymru yn Nulyn ar ddechrau'r haf ond collon ni 3-0 i Gymru ym mis Tachwedd 2009."

Bydd Gogledd Iwerddon yn herio Portiwgal, Rwsia, Israel, Azerbaijan a Lwcsembwrg yng Ngrwp F.

Bydd Lloegr yn wynebu Montenegro, Yr Wcrain, Gwlad Pwyl, Moldofa a San Marino yng Ngrwp H.

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Shale gas extraction policy call

31 July 2011 Last updated at 07:44 GMT By Caroline Rigby BBC News Up to ?70bn worth of shale gas reserves may lie in the rocks below south Wales, research suggests Shadow UK Energy Minister Huw Irranca-Davies has called for the UK government to devise a policy on shale gas.

Potential multi-million pound reserves lie under in south Wales but its claimed an extraction method called fracking causes pollution and could lead to earthquakes.

The Ogmore MP says the gas could help supply energy needs but must be handled safely.

The government says attempts to drill for it must be environmentally viable.

Mr Irranca-Davies Davies told BBC Wales Country Focus programme that he will continue to put pressure on UK Energy Minister, Charles Hendry over the issue.

It comes after research by exploration companies found a potential ?70bn of reserves in rocks deep under south Wales and numerous planning applications have been submitted for test drilling to be carried out.

Wind and renewables

Continue reading the main story

If shale gas, for example, can be part of our transition to a low carbon future and can provide cheap affordable gas, as it has done in the US, then great”

End Quote Huw Irranca-Davies Ogmore MP Fracking began in Blackpool this year but has been suspended while a review looks into any link with two recorded earthquakes.

Mr Irranca-Davies said the UK Government must embed shale gas in its wider energy policy.

"The reason is that if you look at anything else, whether it's nuclear, whether it's oil industry, whether it's wind and renewables or even tidal they all fit within a proper coherent policy structure.

"Whereas, with shale gas, we have the risk it will take us unawares."

However, he is not against shale gas exploitation altogether.

Health and safety

"A lot of people recognise that there may well be potential for shale gas. Particularly if you look at the decline in North Sea Gas and our increasing reliance on imported gas -- LNG and elsewhere, pipelines from Russia, pipelines from Norway -- this could have potential."

He added: "If shale gas, for example, can be part of our transition to a low carbon future and can provide cheap affordable gas, as it has done in the US, then great.

"But only if it is done safely, if there's no environmental impacts and the health and safety of individuals in the areas are looked after as well. Why doesn't the government look at this and decide how do it safety, if at all?"

"We'll keep on pushing for it because I don't want to rule out shale gas entirely -- although I know there are some people who would want to see it completely prohibited.

"But I don't agree with them because I think we need to assess both its potential and its risks properly."

The Department of Energy and Climate Change has said companies must go through a variety of checks, including gaining planning permission before any fracking takes place.

Earlier this month Vale of Glamorgan council leader, Gordon Kemp, called for national level guidance on shale gas extraction.

The Welsh Government has also said it would welcome working with UK ministers to set up a policy framework.

A spokesperson said it "would welcome the UK Government working with devolved administrations to put in place a policy framework for shale gas. But the case for a moratorium rests with Westminster."

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Robbery gang jailed for 23 years

29 July 2011 Last updated at 14:55 GMT Four gang members who robbed a security guard as he was delivering ?2,500 cash to a north Wales bank have been jailed for a total of 23-and-a-half years.

Alan Curtis was kicked as two of the men jumped out of a stolen Volkswagen Golf outside a NatWest branch in Prestatyn on July 2009.

The gang from Liverpool planned the robbery at a nearby holiday camp.

At Mold crown court, Judge Niclas Parry described it as a "carefully planned, sophisticated conspiracy".

Ian Michael Edwards, 24, who is already serving seven years for three other robberies, received a concurrent eight year sentence. He had allowed the others to use his holiday caravan as a base.

Sean Lavin, 24, who is serving six years for two robberies, was jailed for six-and-a-half years to run concurrently.

Daniel Doran, 24, received five years and Mark Fulton, 23, four years. Both were sentenced in their absence after failing to appear at court and a warrant was issued for their arrest.

All four admitted conspiring to rob the security guard.

"The physical effect of what you did is obvious," said judge Parry.

"It must have been terrifying for the victim. The courts will protect those working in vulnerable positions, such as this man, when they have the opportunity to do so."

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Murder attempt charge for man, 43

31 July 2011 Last updated at 09:43 GMT Police sealed off a house in Caldicot on Saturday A 43-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after a woman was stabbed in Monmouthshire.

Gwent Police were called to a report of a disturbance in the Sandy Lane area of Caldicot at about 01:00 BST on Saturday.

The woman, 47, suffered serious serious stab wounds.

Police said she remains in a serious but stable condition in the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport.

A local man, 43, is due to appear before magistrates on Monday.

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Honeymoon murders verdict relief

28 July 2011 Last updated at 14:40 GMT The Mullanys were shot in their resort cottage on Antigua two weeks after they married.

The families of a Welsh couple shot on honeymoon in Antigua have spoken of their relief after two men were convicted of their murders.

Ben and Catherine Mullany, both 31 and from Pontardawe, Swansea Valley, were shot at their resort on the Caribbean island on 27 July, 2008.

Kaniel Martin, 23, and Avie Howell, 20, both denied killing the couple.

The couple's parents said there was no joy at the verdicts, just relief there was justice for their children.

Continue reading the main story

These two individuals can never again inflict the same anguish and devastation to any other family as they have to ours."”

End Quote Statement Ben and Catherine Mullany's families They broke down in tears as the jury delivered its verdict after 10 hours and 20 minutes of deliberation.

Afterwards in a statement, they said: "We will never be able to comprehend the senseless nature of their deaths, the total disregard shown for human life and that no remorse has ever been shown."

Martin and Howell will be sentenced on 26 September and the Director of Public Prosecutions in Antigua said he is considering asking for the death penalty.

Antigua's High Court, in St John's, heard Mrs Mullany, a doctor, died almost instantly after she was shot in the back of the head during a robbery.

Refused questions

Mr Mullany, a student physiotherapist and former soldier and policeman, died a week later after he was flown back to Swansea to be placed on a life-support machine.

Kaniel Martin and Avie Howell will be sentenced in September

The following month Martin and Howell were charged with their murders and that of 43-year-old shopkeeper Woneta Anderson.

The two men, who refused to face questioning in court, had protested their innocence throughout the two-month trial, in which more than 90 witnesses gave evidence.

The Mullanys were shot in their resort cottage on Antigua two weeks after they married.

They were buried in the grounds of St John Evangelist Church, Cilybebyll, near Pontardaw - the church where they had married two weeks earlier.

In their statement issued by South Wales Police, the couple's families said: "There is no joy at today's verdict, just a sense of relief that after three years of waiting there is justice for our children, and for Woneta Anderson ( a third victim of the pair) and her family.

'Silent witness'

"These two individuals can never again inflict the same anguish and devastation to any other family as they have to ours."

During the trial the jury heard a bandana with Howell's DNA was found at Mrs Anderson's shop.

Recordings found on Mr Mullany's stolen Nokia phone were replayed, in which one of the voices identified himself as "Sample Dan" - an alias used by Martin.

Det Supt Keith Niven, who led the Metropolitan Police's investigation team, said he believed Howell and Martin had set out to kill the couple.

The murders hit tourism on Antigua hard.

"The level of violence inflicted upon their victims in order to steal such low value property was incomprehensible and leads me to believe that murder was their primary intention," he said.

He added: "Ben and Catherine must have been terrified when they were awoken and confronted in their room by two strangers pointing a gun at them.

"Throughout this investigation and throughout the trial the two defendants have shown no signs of remorse not even to Ben and Catherine's parents who have been present in court."

Although Martin admitted to lying to police at first about being near the hotel, his defence team said this was only "because he was scared," the jury was told.

Antigua's Director of Public Prosecutions, Anthony Armstrong, said he "reserved the right to request the death penalty at the sentencing hearing on the 26th September"

Mr Armstrong described the evidence as compelling.

He said: "A defendant wherever he steps, whatever he leaves, will serve as a silent witness against him.

Ben Mullany's parents, Marilyn and Ken Mullany, outside the Antiguan court

"Physical evidence cannot be wrong. Only human failure to find it, study and understand it can diminish its value."

The prosecution received help from senior British detectives who were deployed to the island following a plea from the country's prime minister who was concerned about the impact the murders would have on tourism.

UK forensics expert Dr Christopher Moynehan, who also gave evidence at a trial into the murder of BBC TV presenter Jill Dando, told the court that tests found gunshot residue on clothing belonging to Howell and Martin.

Natural ability

After the trial, members of the Mullany family paid tribute to the couple.

They said Mrs Mullany was destined to work in the medical profession, having harboured dreams of becoming a doctor from an early age.

She had attended Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera and was described by former teachers as an excellent pupil.

After graduating in 2002 from the University of London, she worked at Singleton and Morriston hospitals in Swansea as part of her training to be a GP.

Hospital officials described her as having a "natural ability to care and being very compassionate" - especially while working at the paediatric unit in Singleton.

Among the young patients she cared for was the son of Swansea City footballer Ferrie Bodde, after the youngster suffered a severe asthma attack.

The couple's families have set up a charity, the Mullany Fund, which hopes to widen participation in the field of medicine and physiotherapy by offering grants to students, many of whom are facing sharp rises in tuition fees.

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Sex offender sees jail term cut

29 July 2011 Last updated at 17:00 GMT Milsom collected newspaper cuttings relating to high-profile child murders, the court heard A "manipulative and predatory" sex offender who was jailed indefinitely for public protection has had his sentence cut to three-and-a-half years.

Anthony Martin Milsom, 62, from Newtown, Powys, was jailed in March after admitting indecent assault, and possessing and making indecent images.

The original sentencing judge said his case would "chill the blood of the parent of any young child."

But Appeal Court judges said his crimes did not justify an open-ended sentence.

When he was first sentenced, Mold crown court was told that Milsom's large collection of indecent images revealed his fascination with the murder, abduction and rape of young female children.

Police found in his home more than 5,100 indecent drawings, more than 200 photographs, 127,700 still images, together with 500 films and 188 home-made videos.

Newspaper cuttings

Many of them were in the worst category, the court was told.

The court also heard that Milsom had newspaper cuttings relating to high-profile child murder inquiries including Milly Dowler, Sophie Hook, Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, as well as the disappearance of Madeleine McCann.

Milsom admitted a series of offences dating back to the early 1990s including 16 counts of possessing indecent images of children, 21 charges of making indecent images, five charges of indecent assault on a little girl when she was aged between four and eight, and possessing cannabis.

He was put behind bars indefinitely for public protection.

Milsom was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life and he was made the subject of an indefinite sexual offences prevention order to curb his activities in future.

The jail sentence is almost identical to a life term and meant Milsom would not be freed until he could convince the Parole Board the danger he poses to society had passed.

But Mr Justice Simon, sitting at the Appeal Court with Lord Justice Moses and Judge Francis Gilbert overturned that.

He said Milsom was guilty of grave offences and it was right to describe many of the images he collected as "sickening".

But he said it did not justify an open-ended sentence from which he might never be released.

Substituting a total sentence of three and a half years, the judge concluded: "This reflects the overall criminality in respect of which he pleaded guilty."

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Reservoir's algae level warning

28 July 2011 Last updated at 12:47 GMT A build up of algae has occurred at Llysyfran reservoir in Pembrokeshire Levels of a potentially toxic blue-green algae found in a reservoir near Haverfordwest have prompted a safety warning from officials.

Pembrokeshire Council and Public Health Wales have asked Llysyfran reservoir owners, Welsh Water, to temporarily restrict activities such as swimming.

The council said the Environment Agency had carried out tests and would continue to monitor the situation.

The build up of algae is a natural occurrence during warm conditions.

The council said the blue-green algae produced toxins which could cause skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, fever and headaches if swallowed.

Continue reading the main story Do not swim in the waterDo not swallow the waterAvoid contact with the algaeDo not eat fish caught in the reservoirDo not allow pets or livestock to come into contact with the waterObserve and abide by notices positioned around the reservoir Occasionally it can cause more serious illness such as liver and brain damage.

The council said children were at greater risk than adults of developing problems.

An outbreak of blue-green algae at Aberffraw on Anglesey was confirmed by Environment Agency Wales in July last year.

Powys council spent more than ?400,000 restoring Llandrindod Wells lake after the build up of blue-green algae killed hundreds of fish in the summer of 2006.

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Lynette witness 'admitted murder'

29 July 2011 Last updated at 16:49 GMT Lynette White had been stabbed more than 50 times A man whose evidence helped wrongly convict three men for murder once confessed to police that he was the killer, Swansea Crown Court has heard.

Paul Atkins, 56, had said he wrestled prostitute Lynette White to the floor before stabbing her, but now denies any knowledge of the crime.

The men known as the Cardiff Three were later cleared of the killing.

Eight ex-police officers deny conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Two other people deny perjury.

Ms White, 20, was found stabbed 50 times at her flat in Butetown, Cardiff, in 1988.

The trial follows a new investigation into how the Cardiff Three - Stephen Miller, Yusef Abdullahi and Tony Paris - were prosecuted in 1990 for her death.

They were released by the Court of Appeal two years later, although Mr Abdullahi has since died.

The eight former police officers have been accused of manufacturing a case against the three innocent men.

The court has heard Mr Atkins, who twice gave evidence against the Cardiff Three, was babysitting at a nearby house on the night Ms White was murdered.

He had told the jury that he signed a statement saying he had heard her screams only after a police officer threatened to charge him with the crime.

Continue reading the main story GRAHAM MOUNCHER (retired chief inspector) THOMAS PAGE (retired chief inspector) RICHARD POWELL (retired supt)JOHN SEAFORD (retired det con)MICHAEL DANIELS (retired det con)PETER GREENWOOD (retired det con)PAUL JENNINGS (retired det con)PAUL STEPHEN (retired sergeant)All the above deny conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Mr Mouncher also denies two counts of perjuryVIOLET PERRIAM and IAN MASSEY deny two counts of perjury.Varying accounts Giving more evidence on Friday, Mr Atkins said that he had even confessed to the killing but he could not remember telling then Det Chief Inspector John Ludlow about the details.

DCI Ludlow had logged Mr Atkins as saying he had met Miss White in the Custom House pub, in the then docks area of Cardiff and that it was agreed he would have sex with her.

Mr Atkins told the court that he was gay and had not said anything in his 1988 police interview about having sex with her.

Nor did he say to the detective that after killing Miss White he had cut both her wrists and her throat, the jury heard.

"He's making that up," said Mr Atkins.

Mr Atkins agreed he had told police several different versions about what happened at Flat 1, 7 James Street during the early hours of February 14, 1988.

Neighbour with knife

But he denied that, before he "confessed," he had told DCI Ludlow that Mark Grommek, a friend of his and the occupier of Flat 2, had murdered Ms White.

DCI Ludlow had recorded Mr Atkins as saying that Mr Grommek had gone to Flat 1 to have sex with Ms White.

The court heard his police statement claimed that, after hearing a scream, Mr Atkins went downstairs to see Mr Grommek emerging from the flat covered in blood and carrying a blood stained knife.

Mr Atkins told the jury that he could not remember accusing Mr Grommek although he said, "but I might have said it".

Mr Atkins went on to provide more accounts of what he had seen on February 14 and, in the following two years, twice gave evidence at Swansea Crown Court.

In 2003 advances in DNA technology led police to Jeffrey Gafoor, who had not been questioned in 1988.

Gafoor, now 46, admitted murder and was jailed for life.

The eight police officers and two other people have all pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

The trial continues.

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Falling goalposts kill boy, 12

30 July 2011 Last updated at 15:32 GMT Floral tributes left for Casey Breese on Saturday A 12-year-old boy has died after being hit by falling goalposts while playing football in Powys.

Dyfed-Powys Police said Casey Breese was playing with local boys in a recreation ground at Caersws on Friday.

A spokesman said the goalposts were being examined after the "sad death" of Casey and there were no suspicious circumstances.

He was pronounced dead after being flown to hospital in Shrewsbury.

A police spokesman said it is understood that a group of local boys were playing football on the recreation area when the goalposts fell to the ground.

"Sadly a local boy died from injuries sustained," said the spokesman.

He was later named by the force.

Casey was treated at the scene by ambulance staff before being taken by air ambulance to the Royal Shrewsbury hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.

Continue reading the main story

Our thoughts are with the family and his friends and it is a tragedy for the village”

End Quote Peter Harding Caersws FC chairman "The goalposts have been taken away by the police, who have also spoken with the other children and some adults who were in the area at the time," said the spokesman.

"The children present have been affected by the incident and a specially-trained officer will be speaking with their families, and if necessary, further support will be put in place."

'Sympathies'

A liaison officer is supporting the family. A tribute is expected to be paid on Monday.

Floral tributes and a football top were placed at the ground, while tributes were also left to Casey on Facebook and Twitter.

A football shirt left in tribute to Casey Breese on Saturday

One said he was "a star and will never be forgotten".

Det Insp Ian Andrews said the police were working in collaboration with the environmental health department at Powys Council.

"Our condolences go to the family who have suffered this terrible loss and we would ask that the media respect their privacy," said Det Insp Andrews.

"In addition, we would ask any member of the public who witnessed the incident to come forward as their information may help the investigation."

The coroner has been informed.

The incident happened in a recreation ground, also home to the village's football club.

Caersws FC's pre-season friendly with Carmarthen Town, due to be played on Saturday afternoon, was called off as a mark of respect.

Caersws FC chairman Peter Harding said: "Our thoughts are with the family and his friends and it is a tragedy for the village.

The boy was flown to hospital in Shrewsbury but was pronounced dead

"We are helping the police with the investigation. It has knocked us for six."

Vice chairman of Carmarthen Robert Lloyd told BBC Wales: "We had a request late yesterday following the tragedy at the ground, to call the game off.

"Naturally we agreed and our condolences and sympathies go to everyone involved."

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) spokesman said: "HSE is aware of this incident and is following up with police and local authority officials."

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Pair sentenced over waste breach

29 July 2011 Last updated at 20:53 GMT Waste that could no longer fit into the unit was left piling up outside

Two waste disposal firm bosses have been ordered to pay more than ?200,000 each and were given suspended sentences for 20 environmental offences.

Barry Hermon, 68, and Dennis Morgan ran Able Skips in Newport.

Cardiff Crown Court heard the pair consistently breached the 1,000 tonne limit of waste they were allowed at their site, reaching 10,500 tonnes.

Morgan was told he had escaped time in prison in part due to the recent ill health of his fellow defendant.

Able Skips was first issued with a permit to store controlled waste in 2004 but it was not long before it was in the sights of Environment Agency Wales.

Between 2006 and 2008, despite warnings to clear waste, a prosecution and fines totalling almost ?30,000, the company consistently exceeded its waste limit allowance.

Dennis Morgan faces three years in jail if he does not pay the Proceeds of Crime order

Waste that could no longer fit into the unit was left piling up outside.

At the height of the operation, the firm was taking an income of ?1,000 a day

The firm's two directors were each given suspended prison sentences of 10 months.

Judge Nicholas Cooke QC said they had been motivated by greed and that nobody should have sympathy for them being left penniless due to the prosecution.

He added that had this case been dealt with quicker, they would have faced a prison sentence.

In court it was said the pair had received ?965,000 overall.

Hermon had realisable assets of ?230,304 and Morgan's were worth ?261,269.96. Both men have been ordered to pay the money back or face three years in prison.

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Olympic events 'to inspire young'

23 July 2011 Last updated at 07:41 GMT Towns and cities across Wales are marking the countdown to the 2012 Games Wales' countdown to the Olympics is starting with events marking a year-long run-up to the London Games.

A cultural Olympiad by heritage body Cadw hosts projects across north Wales, including a celebration of medieval sports at Conwy Castle.

Big screens in Cardiff and Swansea are showing Olympic and Paralympic films, footage and interactive games.

Wednesday marks a year to the Games, and Welsh ministers hope the events will "inspire and engage" young people.

Across the UK, towns, cities and heritage sites are marking the "One Year to Go" countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games with the London 2012 Open Weekend.

In Wales, the weekend includes two 16-hour days of screenings on big screens at The Hayes in Cardiff and Castle Square in Swansea.

The films and footage, similar to those being shown being at Trafalgar Square in London, include live information, video, and news about the Olympics.

Flashmob

It also includes the chance for audiences to take part in the interactive game Swim Wenlock Swim, with motion sensor cameras comparing the results between cities taking part.

Meanwhile, Cadw's own Power of the Flame Cultural Olympiad initiative, Cauldrons and Furnaces, is formally launched at Ucheldre Centre in Holyhead at 14:30 BST.

The programme, in partnership with the Arts Council of Wales, includes a variety of events including storytelling, community art workshops, dance, music and creative craft activities.

Three north Wales castles - Flint, Harlech and Caernarfon - are staging events on Saturday.

At 15:00, Flint hosts a work by young dancers from the county. Harlech has a flashmob staged by 20 local primary and secondary school pupils.

Caernarfon has a kaleidoscope art exhibition, from 11:00 to 15:00, created by pupils at six local schools.

A flashmob is also being held in Flint High Street, at noon and 13:00.

'Inspire and engage' Cadw's cauldrons and furnaces theme is picked up on Sunday at St David's Bishop's Palace, Pembrokeshire.

A tour between 11:00 and 14:00 tells visitors about the secrets of the building and of saints.

Heritage Minister Huw Lewis said: "As the excitement around next year's Olympic Games continues to build, we are delighted to welcome back the Open Weekend Cauldrons and Furnaces programme as part of Wales' cultural contribution to the Olympiad celebrations.

"The series of events and activities aim to inspire and engage with the children and young people of Wales, not only demonstrating what can be achieved creatively, but also deliver a lasting legacy of inspirational work of the people of Wales beyond the Olympics.

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Musical youth

22 July 2011 Last updated at 09:53 GMT By Caroline Rigby BBC News Sir Anthony Hopkins watches the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra in rehearsals before Saturday's performance Oscar-winning actor Sir Anthony Hopkins has described how music was his first love, despite "falling into acting".

Sir Anthony spoke ahead of presenting concerts in Birmingham and Cardiff this weekend to showcase his work as a composer.

The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra will perform several of his original scores, including music from his own films Slipstream and August.

The actor told BBC Wales: "I never felt I belonged in the acting business."

He is best known for his roles in films such as Silence of the Lambs, for which he won an Oscar, and Remains of the Day, but growing up in Margam, Port Talbot, he developed a deep appreciation for music.

"My mother bought a cottage piano," he said. "I can see the yellow ivories now.

"F-A-C-E.. there was a face... and I got it. I suddenly could go through the whole dimension of all the chords. And so I made up little sayings to remind me - 'cows eat green beef doughnuts'.

"My mother said 'there's something wrong with this boy'. And here we are now."

He added that he only recently realised how much music had been part of his childhood.

"I wanted to be a concert pianist but that didn't work out," he said.

The actor writes his music on the piano at his home in Los Angeles

"When I went to Cardiff College of Music and Drama I was more interested in the music than the acting. I never felt I belonged in the acting business - I still don't."

Sir Anthony, who will appear on stage at the Symphony Hall in Birmingham on Saturday and then at St David's Hall in Cardiff on Sunday to talk the audience through his creative process, said he first started composing as a young schoolboy.

"I used to go down to Neath, to Salters music shop in Queen Street and get manuscript paper, and jot these little medleys down that have been with me all my life," he said.

'Key influences'

He counts his grandfather and home in Margam as key influences for his music.

Continue reading the main story

Margam is one of the prettiest things you'll ever hear... it's a fantastic piece”

End Quote Michael Seal City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra "Dates have a particular resonance for me. I've written a piece called 1947.

"My grandfather took me to the circus in September 1947, on the football field in Port Talbot. I remember the smell of the tents, the elephants.

"So this is a kind of lament for the circus in my childhood."

Hopkins composes on the piano from his home in Los Angeles. But said he hears the different orchestral instruments in his head.

"There is some manuscript paper at home with notes in piano form, and then I add odd notes," he said.

Sir Anthony's performance in Silence of the Lambs won an Oscar in 1992

"There's a piece that I put 'to be played like a warm Saturday afternoon'. These are all impressions from my childhood."

During a rehearsal for the concert of his compositions, Hopkins said: "After acting for a long time I wanted to do something else. I just do it for fun and for free.

"It's extraordinary. I was sitting staring at the parquet floor this morning, thinking how on earth did I get here? It's impossible."

Michael Seal, associate conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), said: "He's a very talented composer. I think he has a very distinctive voice.

"And he can write a very nice melody. Margam is one of the prettiest things you'll ever hear. It's a fantastic piece. Wonderfully scored and written from the heart."

Stephen Maddock, chief executive of the CBSO, said watching the actor interact with the orchestra during rehearsals was moving.

"These pieces have been inside his head in some cases for decades, because they are childhood memories," he said.

"Very evocative music of things he remembers, like going to places with his grandfather. So to hear it played live by the CBSO is, I think, a very moving experience for him and very exciting for us."

Lena Zeliszewska plays first violin with the orchestra and has long been a big fan of Anthony Hopkins as an actor.

"It is super exciting. I've seen Silence of the Lambs about 25 times," she said.

"Seeing him in person is really exciting. He's totally sweet and supportive.

"He likes what we're doing and looks like he's enjoying it."

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Campaign aims to save coastguard

23 July 2011 Last updated at 10:26 GMT A campaign was launched at a public meeting on Friday A campaign has been launched to try to prevent the closure of Swansea coastguard station.

A public meeting was held in Swansea on Friday, following the announcement that the station is to close.

It was decided that there will be a public campaign, with rallies and a petition, to save the station.

Swansea is one of eight stations set to close by 2015, and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency says the new set-up will be more effective.

South Wales West Assembly Member Suzy Davies, who was at the meeting in Mumbles, said it was packed, and there were questions to be raised about the consultation which had led to the decision to close the station, which has 28 staff.

Mrs Davies told BBC Radio Cymru that the experience of Swansea coastguards in dealing with emergencies in the Bristol Channel was not taken into consideration.

Continue reading the main story

It is not the DVLA's policy to permit political campaigning which is against government policy on government premises”

End Quote DVLA spokesman 'Shock' On Friday, the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) said it was shocked that staff at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea were banned from circulating a petition to save the station.

PCS had asked its members at the DVLA's Morriston and Llansamlet offices to gather signatures in support of efforts to defend the coastguard station at Mumbles.

The union's industrial officer Mike Hallinan said it was "completely over-the-top... to try and stop staff from supporting an issue that everyone in the community of Swansea is concerned about."

He appealed to DVLA management to "see sense and avoid alienating their employees by imposing unwarranted restrictions on their freedom of speech".

A DVLA spokesperson said the agency had declined the request because "it is not the DVLA's policy to permit political campaigning which is against government policy on government premises".

Swansea coastguard station is the busiest in Wales, dealing with alerts in the Bristol Channel

Stations at Milford Haven and Holyhead, which had both been earmarked for closure, are among eight to stay open.

Swansea coastguard dealt with 2,074 alerts in 2010, while Milford Haven, which watches over the UK's third largest port, and the coastline from Carmarthen to Barmouth, handled 1,006.

A consultation on the proposals closes on 6 October.

The consultation document by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said a "new concept of operations" would see nine 24-hour bases around the UK, co-ordinated from Southampton.

It said: "Within this single national network, coastguard officers will be able to deal more effectively with the seasonal and diurnal peaks and troughs of activity.

"Similarly, in the event of a major emergency, it will be possible rapidly to direct a greater number of officers to the task to ensure a timely, capable and appropriate UK response."

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1,300 police jobs cut predicted

21 July 2011 Last updated at 12:31 GMT The report predicts there will be 764 fewer police officers in Wales by 31 March 2015 Police forces in Wales are planning to reduce their workforce by 1,300 officers and staff, according to research on the impact of budget cuts.

An HM Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) report estimates by March 2015, there will be 764 fewer police officers in Wales.

There will also be 540 fewer civilian staff, but only four fewer community support officers.

The Home Office has stressed that the police front line would be protected.

The inspectorate says a third of the reduction has already happened across forces in England and Wales.

A separate study from HMIC on the links between police numbers and crime concludes "there is relatively strong evidence for the potential of an effect of police numbers on crime, particularly with regard to property and other acquisitive forms of offending".

The study says a 10% reduction in officers will lead to a 3% rise in crime. Using HMIC's figures, the reduction in officers in Wales is 10.4%.

The Gwent, North Wales and South Wales forces will all see a fall in the number of officers, according to the report, but Dyfed-Powys will see a small increase.

There are reductions in police staff across the board, but the numbers of community support officers will remain steady.

Police officers in Wales have already voiced concerns about the effect UK government cuts will have on crime and public service.

It has previously been estimated that 1,600 police jobs in Wales could be lost because of the cuts.

Home Office figures showed there were 4,625 fewer officers in Wales and England compared with last year.

Force Cash reduction (2011/12 to 2014/15) Police officers 2010 (2015*) Police staff 2010 (2015*) PCSOs 2010 (2015*)

FIGURES: HMIC

* Proposed figures

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Powell keeps Wales World Cup hope

Sale Sharks back-row forward Andy Powell has won 17 Wales caps Andy Powell has not given up hope of forcing his way back into Wales coach Warren Gatland's World Cup plans.

The Sale Sharks back-rower was part of an initial 45-man squad that travelled to Spala in Poland for a training camp.

Powell was left out when the squad was trimmed for a second week but he said: "It's everybody's dream to be in a World Cup and if it does happen great.

"But my focus now is playing for Sale and the Welsh thing is at the back of my mind."

The 29-year-old was ommitted when Gatland cut the squad to the second training camp to 35, along with players like Cardiff Blues scrum-half Richie Rees and Ospreys forward Jonathan Thomas.

Powell does face tough back-row competition and it seems Ryan Jones, Dan Lydiate, Toby Faletau, Josh Turnbull, Rob McCusker and Justin Tipuric are ahead of him in the Wales pecking order.

But the coach did say: "The door is still very much open for those players who are not making this trip."

Powell, however, is now concentrating on his new club following his summer move from Wasps.

"We'll watch to see what the other boys, youngsters can do. It's an opportunity for them," said Powell.

"And for me it's just to go back up to Sale, train well and catch the coaches' eyes up there so they can give feedback to Gatland to say that I'm still training hard.

"But he was positive, he said 'keep going'... which is good from that perspective.

"England is coming up now [in] two weeks but all I can do is keep training hard and if it comes along I'll grasp it with two hands."

Wales go to Twickenham on 6 August to face England before a return Test in Cardiff the following Saturday, then complete their World Cup warm-up programme against Argentina on 20 August.

Gatland must then name his final 30-man squad for September's World Cup in New Zealand by 22 August.

Powell has not added to his 17 Wales caps since starting the 19-26 defeat to England in last season's Six Nations opener, where he suffered an injury early on.

"It was very frustrating, probably playing some of the best rugby I've played from the Lions up to that England game," Powell said.

"First 10 minutes taking a knock on the shoulder and probably not recovering from it for about six to eight weeks... it puts you back a few places.

"I was confident, I know my own ability and I work hard off the pitch to get myself back right."

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Charity plea

15 July 2011 Last updated at 07:10 GMT Campaigners fear some people cannot identify genuine charity collection bags Campaigners are calling for clearer labelling on charity clothes collection bags amid fears that charities may be missing out on donations.

Pensioners Forum Wales said elderly people often found it hard to tell between charity bags posted through their door and private firms' bags.

The group said some wanting to donate to charity were unwittingly lining the pockets of private companies.

The Charities Commission said it had issued advice on identifying bags.

The collection bags in question are those posted through domestic letterboxes which ask for householders to fill them with their unwanted clothes and textiles.

Some are sent by charities but others are sent by firms which sell the donated goods for profit.

Nancy Davies, chair of Pensioners Forum Wales said the problem stemmed from charities using very small lettering to print their registered charity number on collection bags.

Private companies also use small print for their company registration numbers, she explained.

Continue reading the main story

People who think they are donating their goods to charities are unwittingly lining the pockets of private companies”

End Quote Nancy Davies Pensioners Forum Wales "It can be difficult, at first glance and especially for people with poor eyesight to tell the difference between charity collection bags and those that private companies post through their door," said Ms Davies.

"Pensioners Forum Wales is worried that people who think they are donating their goods to charities are unwittingly lining the pockets of private companies, while charities are missing out on much-needed funds.

"This is why it is so important that charity collection bags have clearer labelling on them so that it is easier for members of the public to tell who is going to benefit from their donated goods."

Eileen Kinsman of the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) commented: "Legitimate charitable door-to-door clothing collections raise significant funds for charity which is under threat from bogus collectors."

Ms Kinsman said the Institute of Fundraising (in conjunction with the Fundraising Standards Board, the Textile Recycling Association, the Charity Retail Association and Kidney Research UK) had produced guidance on house-to-house clothing collections including tips on how to spot bogus collections.

"As well as raising significant sums for charity, door to door clothing collections are good for the environment and popular with the public because they are convenient to use," said Ms Klinsman.

'Doubt'

Steve Jones of Wales Heads of Trading Standards said it was "concerned" about the issue and sympathetic with the fears expressed by Pensioners Forum Wales.

"We acknowledge that it's not always straightforward to tell the difference between collection bags," he said.

"If there's any doubt at all as to whether you are giving to a genuine charity then don't give. Give instead to a local charity shop."

Continue reading the main story Organisations do not have to be charities to make public collectionsSome organisations who make public collections sell the goods they collect for a profit and may or may not give a percentage of what they make to a charityCharity collection bags will display the Registered Charity NumberA Company Registration Number is not the same as a Registered Charity NumberThe Charity Commission, the independent regulator of charities for England and Wales, said it has issued warnings against bogus clothing collections, and advice on how to ensure donations go to a genuine charity.

The charity said: "The commission has received a number of calls recently from people who have been given misleading leaflets which suggest that the proceeds of a clothing collection will go to charity or charitable causes when in fact they benefit a private business or individual.

"The commission is also aware of recent cases where fraudsters have used the name, logo and charity registration number of a genuine charity to appeal for donations and keep the profits.

"Most collections for charities are genuine and provide them with an important source of income.

"People should not be discouraged from donating to collections carried out by genuine charities to raise funds for a legitimate charitable cause."

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Two coastguard stations reprieved

14 July 2011 Last updated at 15:07 GMT Campaigners received mixed news in Wales

Two Welsh coastguard centres which were threatened with closure have won a reprieve.

Milford Haven and Holyhead stations will stay open but Swansea, which was to be downgraded under the plans, is now to close by 2015.

Eleven centres across the UK will now remain open, all operating around the UK.

The Welsh Government said UK ministers would have to "account for any consequences" for sea safety.

Shadow Welsh Secretary Peter Hain said the UK government should "U-turn" on its Swansea decision as it had done on the one for Holyhead and Milford Haven.

Campaigns to save Milford Haven and Holyhead stations saw a 20,000 name petition go to Downing Street.

The two reprieved stations were to shut, with Swansea reduced to operating only during daylight hours.

But the strong local protests, including lobbying the chief executive of the coastguard service when he visited Milford Haven in February, sparked the policy change.

Campaigners argued that as well as watching over the UK's third largest port, the Milford Haven centre also watched over the coastline from Carmarthen to Barmouth, an area which is typically very busy with tourists and leisure craft.

Swansea, which has 28 personnel, is now one of eight coastguard stations which will undergo phased closures between 2012 and 2015.

The details were revealed in a Commons statement by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond, who said that Holyhead was being favoured instead of the MCA base at Liverpool following representations over Welsh language concerns.

He said Swansea was being closed instead of Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire due to the higher level of government employment in the city.

Plaid Cymru MP for Carmarthen West and Dinefwr Jonathan Edwards described the announcement as "bittersweet".

He said: "Milford Haven and Holyhead have fought fierce battles to be kept open and we welcome the announcement that they will remain fully operational.

'Strategically important'

Continue reading the main story

The campaign is not over, there will be a six week period of consultation, therefore we must keep the pressure up”

End Quote Albert Owen Anglesey MP "But there are now huge questions as to why exactly Swansea is to be closed? I will be asking what representations were made by ministers from the new Welsh government on this?"

Dennis O'Connor of the Save Milford Campaign which handed over a 20,000-name petition said he was "delighted".

But he described the news that Swansea would close as "devastating".

"We will do everything we possibly can as a campaign group to offer our support to Swansea and the other coast guard stations threatened in the UK," he said.

Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb said: "This is fantastic news and exactly what we have been working for.

"The minister always said this would be a genuine consultation and that he would modify the proposals if necessary. He has done just that."

Lib Dem MP for Ceredigion Mark Williams said: "This is very good news, which shows a welcome willingness to listen to the concerns that were expressed at the original proposals.

Anglesey MP Albert Owen, who campaigned to save Holyhead, said: "We put a strong case together based on irrefutable facts; local experience, knowledge and skills; a knowledge of the Welsh language and the strategic importance of Holyhead.

"However, the campaign is not over, there will be a six week period of consultation, therefore we must keep the pressure up, moving forward with our vision to provide safer coastlines for all."

A Welsh Government spokesman said: "We will be seeking urgent assurances from the UK government that they have considered all the potential risks of closing such a strategically important station.

"The UK government will need to account for any consequences this decision may have on the safety of shipping and other people using the coastline."

UK STATIONS CLOSING UK STATIONS REMAINING

Southampton/Portsmouth area (UK Maritime Operations Centre)

Dover (disaster recovery backup)

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Two airlifted after coastal falls

15 July 2011 Last updated at 09:47 GMT Two women have been airlifted to hospital after separate falls on the south Wales coast.

A 28-year-old woman fell down a cliff face she was climbing at St Govan's Head in Pembrokeshire after a boulder came off in her hand and hit her head.

She was flown to the University of Wales Hospital in Cardiff following the incident at 2030 BST on Thursday.

An hour later, a 60-year-old woman broke her leg in a fall while walking at Pennard Burrows on Gower.

She was also taken to the same hospital.

Coastguards said they were alerted to the cliff climber's fall by a member of the public who heard her friends shouting for help.

She was taken back up the cliff face by a coastguard rescue team and transferred to a waiting RAF rescue helicopter.

At 2130 BST Swansea Coastguard received a call from the Welsh Ambulance Service requesting help for the 60-year-old woman, who had fractured her leg.

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Infants school head dismissed

14 July 2011 Last updated at 18:56 GMT The head teacher of a Powys infants school has been dismissed following a suspension.

Powys council said Erios Hall was suspended from her post at Ardwyn Nursery and Infants School in Welshpool in March last year.

The council would not to reveal details of what Mrs Hall was accused of, but it said she had the right to appeal.

Mrs Hall's union, the NAHT, said it would be reviewing the decision "and an appeal will be made."

Council cabinet member for education, Councillor Stephen Hayes, said: "I can confirm that the disciplinary committee of the governing body at Ardwyn Nursery and Infants School, Welshpool, has recommended that Mrs Erios Hall should be dismissed from her post as head teacher at the school.

"Mrs Hall has a right of appeal and should she exercise her right of appeal, she will remain in post but on suspension until after her appeal."

He said parents have been informed and no further comment would be made until the conclusion of all proceedings.

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Property sales raise council cash

15 July 2011 Last updated at 06:38 GMT John Nash grade 11* listed Foley House in Haverfordwest is currently empty but was used as magistrates court offices Cash-strapped councils across Wales are continuing to sell off surplus property.

A snapshot survey by BBC Wales found councils selling off parcels of land, old public toilets and the odd listed building.

Even smaller items are for sale and earlier this year Conwy council said its eBay account has raised over ?16,000 in six years.

It has sold everything from a photocopier to a 19th Century desk.

Tim Goodwin, from Williams and Goodwin The Property People, in north Wales said the company regularly sold land and property for local councils.

"There can be a cross section of property available and a toilet block in south Wales was brought recently by an investor, purely because it had fantastic views not because it was a former public convenience," he said.

"The quirky building will be of more interest but invariably it depends on the location," he added.

Continue reading the main story

A Victorian toilet block might be listed and so be more difficult to redevelop, whilst a 1960s block could be knocked down and something else built”

End Quote Tim Goodwin Williams and Goodwin the Property People A former school at Bodorgan on Anglesey was one of the latest properties up for auction.

It came with a guide price of between ?50,000-?60,000 and with planning permission to develop a three-bedroomed house, he said.

Despite the ups and downs of the property market, millions of pounds have been raised in council property sales over the past two years.

Since April 2009, Pembrokeshire County Council has sold 53 properties and land worth approximately ?2.7 million.

Out of this, eight properties were council houses sold for ?645,000 under the Right-To-Buy scheme.

"We currently have four items for sale at an approximate value of around ?500,000," said a spokesman.

"These include the former Pennar School in Pembroke Dock, a Grade II listed building, Foley House in Haverfordwest, plus a council depot in Crymych," he added.

For sale by tender by Gwynedd Council - former offices in Tywyn

Cardiff Council said it has raised ?3,851,530 "from property sales completed in the last financial year and to date this year".

Wrexham council meanwhile sold an industrial unit, residential property, a former youth centre, a farmhouse, and a former care home (sold to enable the development of an extra care facility on site).

Those sales over the past two years total ?1.56m.

"The council currently has one former school on the market following the development of a new school at a different location in the area," said a spokesman.

"Generally the council's policy for the use of the proceeds of sales is to invest in school buildings," he added.

In Powys, public toilets, small holdings, former schools and offices have raised around ?13m.

Still for sale are a community centre in Welshpool with offers of around ?130,000 invited, and a small-holding with Grade II listed farmhouse in Meifod.

Gwynedd, council has raised ?1.52m from sale of its property and currently has former offices at Tywyn institute, a former Ministry of Defence and scout hut at Bethesda, and a plot of land at the Agri Food Park in Llanystumdwy for sale.

Former council properties are sometimes "not the easiest" place to take on however.

"A Victorian toilet block might be listed and so be more difficult to redevelop, whilst a 1960s block could be knocked down and something else built," said Tim Goodwin.

The property market as a whole was "unpredictable", he said.

"But as always the right property for the right price always sells," he added.

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Wrexham Lager returns to the pub

16 July 2011 Last updated at 07:44 GMT Owners Mark Roberts and Vaughan Roberts, engineer and designer John Bowler and head brewer Ian Dale Pub-goers in Wrexham will soon be able to drink a pint of one of Britain's oldest lagers as the Wrexham brand is revived.

Local businessmen John, Vaughan and Mark Roberts teamed up with Ian Dale, former brewing manager at Wrexham Lager, to set up the new micro-brewery.

They estimate the first kegs of the lager will be ready by the end of August.

Ian Dale said he would be following the brew's recipe from the 1970s.

That was when the lager was at 4% strength before it was changed to 3.2% after the merger with Carlsberg.

"It's an exciting proposition," said Mr Dale.

"They've gone for the best equipment possible, and the new plant is second to none. The fact that this plant is much smaller doesn't matter.

"We're going to start off slowly though, let the new plant bed in and get established."

The lager will be available only in kegs, and sold to local pubs for the time being.

The brewery is located in one of the old warehouses of the Roberts brothers' distribution firm, F Jones.

"We had a business which had outgrown the premises, and we were wondering what to do with it," explained Mark Roberts.

"I wondered whatever had happened to the previous start-ups for Wrexham Lager, so spoke to Ian about what would be needed to bring it back.

"We travelled to America and round Europe in search of the best equipment, but in the end we decided to go with a German family-run firm which are the oldest makers of [lager] brewing equipment in the world.

"We did our homework because it was an important decision to make."

The new brew will currently only be available in pubs

The new-look Wrexham Lager will sport a logo which Mark Roberts sad encapsulated the town's history.

"We use the Welsh colours, have a dragon and also a football inside a rugby ball, as we do have a great tradition for rugby, be we didn't want to leave out the football fans," he explained.

"Then we've got the gold for hopefully future success and the black for Wrexham's coal mining days."

Brewing of Wrexham Lager had come to an end in 2000.

German engineers from Kaspar Schulz are currently fitting out the new micro-brewery before brewing begins later this month.

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Official 'suspended' after leak

13 July 2011 Last updated at 18:37 GMT The PCS has raised concerns about the possible closure of Welsh Government offices A civil servant has been suspended for revealing proposals to close Welsh Government offices, says a trade union.

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union said one of its representatives had been suspended for passing on information.

The Welsh Government declined to comment about the suspension.

Ministers have said they are committed to keeping jobs at the offices proposed for closure.

The Welsh Government is considering a location strategy which the PCS warned earlier this month could see some offices close.

It said there would be a threat of redundancies if offices in Llandrindod Wells and Newtown, Powys, closed because of the distance to bigger Welsh Government offices in Aberystwyth.

There are 117 staff at Llandrindod Wells and 83 at Newtown.

Continue reading the main story

I have told the civil service clearly that no document was leaked to the press or anybody else by PCS”

End Quote Peter Harris PCS Wales secretary The union has also raised concerns about the impact of closing an office in Caernarfon where there are 92 staff.

'Blowing the whistle'

PCS Wales secretary Peter Harris said the union was "happy that we've had some assurances about keeping a presence now in those locations".

"The bad news, very disappointingly, is a union representative working for the Welsh Government has been suspended," he said.

"I just cannot understand why a union representative has been suspended for blowing the whistle that there are jobs at risk in mid Wales and other parts of Wales."

He added: "I have told the civil service clearly that no document was leaked to the press or anybody else by PCS."

If the suspended official lost his job it would "cause havoc to industrial relations" and "could even result in industrial action", he said.

A Welsh Government spokesman said: "We do not comment on staffing matters."

In a statement, Finance Minister Jane Hutt said the government was committed to retaining jobs in Caernarfon, Carmarthen, Newtown and Llandrindod Wells.

She said it was exploring opportunities to co-locate with other parts of the public sector, encouraging flexible working, hot desking, working from home and using other Welsh Government buildings.

Plaid Cymru AM Alun Ffred Jones, who raised the issued in the Senedd chamber on Wednesday, said: "These regional offices are vitally important to the communities they serve.

"Cutting any of these services would be a terrible blow for those areas. "

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Protecting the sea

15 July 2011 Last updated at 06:54 GMT The map will be built up with information provided by fishermen and environmental groups Fishermen on Anglesey are to help protect fish stocks and marine wildlife by contributing to a sustainable fishing map of local waters.

The project, Fish Map Mon, will log vulnerable and more robust areas for fishing around the island and the Menai Strait.

If successful, the EU-funded project could be used in other Welsh sea areas.

Countryside Council for Wales said the plan would help improve the management of local waters for all concerned.

The project, to be launched on Friday at Menai Bridge on Anglesey, is being organised by the North Wales Fishermen's Cooperative, Bangor Mussel Producers, the Welsh Federation of Sea Anglers and Countryside Council for Wales (CCW).

The group explained that details would be gathered from fishermen about their activities and this would be combined with information on the area's wildlife habitats and their sensitivity.

Continue reading the main story

This project has the potential to improve the management of our seas for the benefit of wildlife and for those whose livelihoods depend on them”

End Quote Morgan Parry CCW chairman When plotted on the map this would build up a clear picture of the type and level of fishing taking place in various natural habitats.

The map would also act as a starting point for managing sustainable fisheries in the area.

Morgan Parry, CCW's chairman, said for an activity to be truly sustainable it had to look after the local economy and communities as well as the natural environment.

"This project is one of the best examples of collaboration between various interested parties to work towards a sustainable, workable future," said Mr Parry.

"This project has the potential to improve the management of our seas for the benefit of wildlife and for those whose livelihoods depend on them.

"It is in the interest of both biodiversity and the sustainability of the fishing industry to find agreed and sustainable solutions to fisheries management."

'Adverse impacts'

James Wilson of Bangor Mussel Producers said he hoped the map would help develop an ecosystem-based approach to managing the marine environment.

"We are happy to be involved in a closely integrated project that will examine, in an innovative way, the crossover between fisheries and environmental needs," he said.

Roger Cook, of the Welsh Federation of Sea Anglers, said the project would provide evidence of any adverse impacts of fishing.

"Any attributed to specific angling techniques would provide a basis for us to revise our code of conduct for sea anglers," said Mr Cook.

Other organisations participating in the scheme include the Welsh Aquaculture Producers Association, the Welsh Government, Environment Agency Wales, SeaFish, South and West Wales Fishing Communities, Cardigan Bay Fishermen's Association, and relevant local authorities.

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Jogger injured in buzzard attack

16 July 2011 Last updated at 10:23 GMT The keen runner said he was shocked when the bird attacked him A runner has been injured by a swooping buzzard as he jogged through a forest near his home

Alan Rosier, 37, said he was in shock after being hit on the back of the head by the bird of prey at Pontywaun, Caerphilly county.

The geologist suffered a gash on his neck caused by the bird's talons.

A spokesman for the Forestry Commission said it was very unusual for a buzzard to attack a human.

"I've never seen anything like it. It was a real shock to see a bird attack like that," said Mr Rosier.

He said the bird just missed him as he passed the first time, but caught up with him as he was running back.

"It hit me in the back of the head and caused a gash. I kept on running just to get away," he said.

Mr Rosier said his fiance, an ecologist, told him the buzzard was probably protecting its young in a nearby nest.

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I won't be running along that track again for a few weeks when I know the buzzard's young fledglings should have flown the nest”

End Quote Alan Rosier Jogger "It was very surprising and I won't be running along that track again for a few weeks when I know the buzzard's young fledglings should have flown the nest," he said.

A father-of-two, he is a former triathlon competitor, and trains for local 5km races.

He said he regularly sees the birds when he runs, but they are usually high in the sky.

"I didn't think I was in any danger from them," he said.

"I was lucky to escape more serious injury and don't want to be dive-bombed again."

Clive Davies, from the Forestry Commission, said: "They are very territorial but we have never heard of an incident like this before in Wales - usually they only attack other birds.

The birds are described as extremely territorial

"Buzzards nest from April until July and normally they would have flown the nest by now.

"It may have been a young bird which was startled," he added.

In June last year a 71-year-old man was injured after being attacked by a buzzard in a field in Worcestershire.

Nick George suffered deep claw injuries to his head when the bird dive-bombed him on a path in a wheat field near Severn Stoke.

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Suspended head teacher retires

14 July 2011 Last updated at 08:57 GMT Industrial action at the school started on 17 March The head teacher of a Powys school, which has been hit by strikes over planned job losses, has stepped down after being suspended.

The council said Ingrid Gallagher had retired from Brecon High School to "pursue other professional interests".

Mrs Gallagher was suspended in April after six one-day strikes by teachers over compulsory redundancies.

She said she would miss staff and students, but was confident the school will go from strength to strength.

In April, Powys council said Mrs Gallagher had been suspended while an inquiry took place "into concerns that have been raised".

It said the decision was "neutral" and was not disciplinary action.

'Stength to strength'

It followed industrial action by union members against six job cuts, with two posts lost through compulsory redundancy.

Mrs Gallagher said: "I will miss the students and staff at Brecon High School but I am confident the school will go from strength to strength and I wish them well for the future.

"My change of career will allow me to spend more time with my family."

The council said during Mrs Gallagher's five years in charge at Brecon High she had successfully raised academic standards and had been responsible for many innovations.

The teaching union the NASUWT said it understood Mrs Gallagher had resigned.

Spokesman Rex Phillips said: "It was the only course of action open to her given the problems that had been created at the school during her time as head teacher."

The union had accused the school's governors of financial mismanagement and said they had turned a ?100,000 surplus into a projected ?650,000 deficit in three years.

The school denied it had failed to take action to address a budget deficit, which it claimed was caused by a reduction in funding.

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Pets therapy launch at hospital

16 July 2011 Last updated at 14:46 GMT The launch at Glan Clwyd means the service will now be available at other hospitals too Dogs and cats are to be used to help hospital patients across north Wales.

The Pets As Therapy initiative was launched at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan by former Coronation Street actress Pauline Fleming.

The health board said research showed that animal companionship can help speed up the rate of recovery.

Pets will visit elderly mentally infirm patients, and dementia care, stroke rehabilitation, paediatrics, psychiatric and oncology departments.

Pauline Fleming - who played Mike Baldwin's wife in Coronation Street - was at the hospital as the scheme officially got under way.

The Pets As Therapy (PAT) charity organises visits by volunteer pet owners and their animals to people who are residents in hospitals, hospices, residential homes, nursing homes, day car centres, and special needs schools.

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All our PAT dogs and cats must pass a rigorous independent health and temperament test before they can enter hospital premises”

End Quote Anne Jones Pets as Therapy Dawn Cooper, of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said the charity already had long standing links with the mental health service at Glan Clwyd hospital.

"This new development will ensure patients across the health board will be able to access this service," she added.

The health board said research showed animal companionship could help rehabilitation in a variety of ways.

They are excellent ice-breakers with people who do not, or cannot, communicate.Stroking an animal can lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels, which can help people suffering from depression.Interaction with a PAT animal can also help stroke sufferers as even when a person has lost the power of speech.

Pets As Therapy co-ordinator Anne Jones said the volunteers and their dogs looked forward to visiting people missing their own pets while in hospital.

"All our PAT dogs and cats must pass a rigorous independent health and temperament test before they can enter hospital premises," she said.

"Twelve months ago the mental health Ablett Unit at Glan Clwyd hospital introduced Pets As Therapy as part of their 'star wards' project.

"The dogs have been a huge success in the unit and the feedback from the patients has been extremely positive," she added.

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Maternity services 'need change'

15 July 2011 Last updated at 12:35 GMT Maternity services at hospitals such as Glan Clwyd face a possible reorganisation Changes to maternity services at hospitals in north Wales are needed, according to a review.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board says it will draw up and consult on a range of options but no decisions had been taken.

There are fears maternity services may be cut at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Glan Clwyd, and Wrexham Maelor hospitals to provide midwife-led units.

The health board said services would remain as local as possible.

It said the first stage of its maternity and child health review had concluded the way services were planned and delivered had to change.

Unless they did, the number of specialist nurses, midwives and doctors would not meet national standards, it said.

It also said more needed to be done to help people to stop smoking, reduce obesity, improve mental health, reduce unwanted pregnancies and increase the number of children and babies being immunized.

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Where we can and it is safe to do so, services will be as local as possible”

End Quote Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board Meetings with staff, patients and other interested parties to discuss changes will be held in the coming weeks.

It said no plans had been put to the project board and if there was any significant service change it would discuss public consultation it with the community health council.

"Patient safety is the health board's number one priority, improving the health of the population and making sure we live within our public resources are also important," it said.

"Where we can and it is safe to do so, services will be as local as possible."

The health board first announced its plans for a review last year.

It led Prestatyn GP Eamonn Jessup to warn cuts in services to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, would mean mothers would have to travel for emergency caesareans and some babies would die.

A online campaign to maintain acute services at the unit has attracted over 18,000 members.

Another group is calling for the retention of all maternity services at Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

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Full-time firefighters replaced

15 July 2011 Last updated at 06:45 GMT The fire services said full-time firefighters will support colleagues at retained stations in Powys Voluntary firefighters are to replace full-time frontline crews in Powys as service chiefs look to cut costs.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service are redeploying 21 firefighters in Llandrindod Wells, Newtown and Brecon to work in the community.

The fire service said standards would not drop and response times would not suffer.

But Montgomeryshire assembly member Russell George is concerned the decision will put lives at risk.

He has called on Local Government Minister Carl Sargeant to monitor the performance of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service in light of the new working arrangements.

Mr George said: "I have been raising concerns about these proposals for several months now.

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Emergency services are now being delivered by retained, part-time, firefighters. While I support their skill and commitment to the fire service, I am concerned that response times could increase and lives be put at risk”

End Quote Russell George Montgomeryshire AM "There were 21 full-time fire fighters based at three stations in Powys (Newtown, Llandrindod Wells and Brecon). Now those members of staff are only used to do home fire safety checks and other non-emergency activities.

"Emergency services are now being delivered by retained, part-time, firefighters. While I support their skill and commitment to the fire service, I am concerned that response times could increase and lives be put at risk."

He said there were also concerns Newtown fire station could be downgraded, and certain equipment used to tackle flooding and waste spillages could be withdrawn.

But Mid and West Wales Fire Service denied Newtown would being downgraded, and said there were no plans to withdraw the equipment.

Chief fire officer Richard Smith said: "As part of a comprehensive review conducted last year, we looked at the effectiveness of the whole-time staff at Newtown, Llandrindod and Brecon Fire Stations.

"We concluded that the community of Powys could be better served by providing these staff with defined roles to deliver community safety activities, and to improve support to colleagues working at retained stations within Powys. This is in line with our commitment to invest in education and prevention."

Mr Smith added that full-time firefighters would continue to be based at Newtown, Llandrindod and Brecon fire stations working within the community.

He said the fire authority was confident "there will not be a reduction in the standard of the emergency response service provided within Powys as a result of these changes".

In December last year the fire authority voted to make ?1.2m of savings in areas such as overtime.

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Teachers stage second pay strike

14 July 2011 Last updated at 09:20 GMT Some teachers at a Gwynedd school are staging a second day-long strike in protest at pay and job cuts.

The union NASUWT claims the local authority and school governors were being "intransient " over proposed redundancies at Tywyn Secondary School.

The union is warning the dispute has potential to spread to other schools across the county during the summer months if it is not resolved.

Gwynedd council has been asked to comment.

The teaching union said it had put a 10-point plan to the school's governing body to resolve the dispute which affected six teachers, around a quarter of the teaching staff, two of whom face redudancy.

Union general secretary Chris Keates said: "This was rejected. Instead the governors opted to push forward with redundancies."

She added: "To sack teachers or cut their pay when the school budget is in surplus is appalling.

NASUWT Wales Organiser Rex Phillips added: "The NASUWT has made strenuous efforts to attempt to resolve this dispute but it is now clear that we are being blocked by the intransient attitude of the school governors and local authority."

A picket at the school, which around 300 pupils, was held on Thursday morning.

The union's first one-day strike was held at the school on 29 June.

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Crusaders 20-26 Castleford

Crusaders (14) 20
Tries: Chan, White, Tansey, Sammut Goals: Schifcofske 2
Castleford Tigers (6) 18
Tries: Thompson, Youngquest, Davies Goals: Dixon 3

A late Rob Parker try for Castleford denied struggling Crusaders their first Super League win in eight games.

Jordan Thompson had given Tigers an early lead but Jason Chan, Lloyd White and Jordan Tansey all went over to give the hosts a 14-6 lead at the break.

Nick Youngquest then crossed to reduce the deficit to two points before Jarrod Sammut put Crusaders back in charge.

Ben Davies then made it 20-18 before Parker and a last-minute penalty from Kirk Dixon saw Cas win by six points.

Crusaders coach Iestyn Harris:

"It is extremely disappointing because I was expecting us to kick away in that second half. "We just kept giving them opportunities. The players are upset in there and we can't blame anyone else but ourselves.

"In the first half, we looked dominant and comfortable and ready to kick on. We just didn't come out afterwards and, in fairness to Cas, they just dug in

and stuck there. They did all the little things."

Castleford coach Terry Matterson: "We really played dumb all game. I feel for Crusaders, I really do.

"That's three home games that they probably should really have won. It is a learning experience for them and I feel for them - but not that much, I suppose.

"I ripped into the players at half-time. I thought we were just not there and I was pleased that it was only 14-6 as that score could have been 24-6 - and

really should have been.

"We came back and got back into it and then gave an intercept. That side has to improve massively before playing Huddersfield next week."

Crusaders: Schifcofske, Reardon, Martin, Mellars, Tansey, Witt, White, O'Hara, Withers, Moore, Winternstein, Chan, Cahill.
Replacements: J. James, Sammut, L. Williams, Flower.

Castleford: Mathers, Dixon, Youngquest, Arundel, Owen, McGoldrick, Orr, Jackson, Clark, Parker, Ferres, Jones, Hudson.
Replacements: Widders, Snitch, Thompson, B. Davies.

Referee: Ben Thaler (Wakefield).

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The Doctor is in...

14 July 2011 Last updated at 16:41 GMT The Doctor Who Experience is expected to open in Cardiff next spring Cardiff council has backed plans to bring a major Doctor Who exhibition to the city.

The Doctor Who Experience, currently in London, features sets, props and memorabilia from the BBC Wales series.

It will relocate from from London's Olympia to a new council-built home in Cardiff Bay early next year.

A report for the council said it could attract 250,000 visitors a year and be worth ?13m annually to the city's economy.

The council will receive ?2 from every ticket sold in a bid to recoup its costs.

These were not revealed and in confidential part of the executive report but Media Wales reported the figure was around ?2m

The proposals were examined by the council's executive on Thursday.

The exhibition will be housed in a new home in Porth Teigr in Cardiff Bay, right next door to the BBC's new Roath Lock Studios where Doctor Who will be filmed from next year.

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It will bring millions of pounds into the economy and the benefits to Cardiff will be immense in terms of tourism”

End Quote Rodney Berman Cardiff council leader Projections from leisure and tourism consultants Stevens & Associates also estimate it would help bring 40,000 new overnight tourists each year, worth some ?7m, and support over 200 full time equivalent jobs in the city.

The Doctor Who Experience opened in London in February and has already proved to be a huge success with fans of the series from all over the world.

It is the largest exhibition ever assembled of sets, props and memorabilia from the series, including items never publicly displayed before such as original costumes, a full scale recreation of two iconic TARDIS sets and numerous monsters.

The Council is working on the project in partnership with BBC Worldwide, who will be responsible for fully fitting-out and operating the exhibition.

Council leader Rodney Berman said: "Cardiff has become established as the home of Doctor Who and bringing the new Doctor Who Experience to Cardiff Bay is a fantastic opportunity for the city.

"It will bring millions of pounds into the economy and the benefits to Cardiff will be immense in terms of tourism.

"I think visitors will be especially excited to be able to visit the Doctor Who Experience right next door to where the series is filmed."

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