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Good Luck Bonnie!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We wish Bonnie Tyler good luck for the Eurovision Song Contest this Saturday. Bonnie, who was born in Skewen in south west Wales, will perform ‘Believe in Me’ in Sweden.

The annual contest that began in 1956 is hugely popular across Europe and the rest of the world. Millions will watch live on TV and on the Internet in countries including India, China and the USA.

Bonnie, whose chart success in the UK including 1970s hit ‘Lost in France’ and 1980s power ballads ‘Holding out for a Hero’ and ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’, gained success in many countries including Germany, Norway, Switzerland and Austria.

It’s not the first time a Welsh singer has performed in the contest. Pontardawe’s Mary Hopkin came second with ‘Knock Knock Who's There’ in 1970. In 1990 Bridgend’s Emma Louise Booth’s ‘Give a Little Love Back’ came 6th and Swansea's Jessica Garlick was third in 2002 with ‘Come Back’.

Bonnie has gained some tips from Nicky Stevens from Carmarthen, who was part of the 1975 winning group Brotherhood of Man with ‘Save Your Kisses for Me’.

Supporters in Swansea can enjoy live entertainment before the contest begins, with the whole show broadcast live on the big screen in Castle Square.

Also, good luck to the pupils of Llangewydd Junior School, representing Wales for the 5th year in a row in the 'Schoolovision Song Contest'. This year 38 countries across Europe plus Iceland and Azerbaijan will compete.

Welsh National Opera Premiere Wagner Dream in Pali

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh National Opera will première their production of Wagner Dream by British composer Jonathan Harvey.

Performances of the part biographical, part fantasy opera take place from 23 May - 15 June 2013 at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. The opera features electronic music and singing in German, Sanskrit and Pali. Pali is a 2000 year old language that the Buddha would have spoken.

2013 marks the 200th anniversary of German composer Wagner’s birth. Harvey’s opera intertwines the events surrounding Wagner's death with the story of Wagner's uncompleted opera outline Die Sieger, The Victors in English.

The Wales Millennium Centre is one of the many venues in Wales. It hosts a variety of productions, including ballet, theatre, opera, comedy and dance, all under one roof.

Cardiff Bay International Sports Village Expansion

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Plans are underway to expanse the Cardiff Bay International Sports Village to include a 3,000-seat ice arena and 250m real snow indoor ski slope.

The development will include two ice rinks that will be the new home for both the Cardiff Devils ice hockey team and the Cardiff Huskies sledge hockey team.
The new developments, scheduled to open during 2014, will also feature a 32-storey tower with a winter roof garden and luxury hotel, as well as offices and apartments and shopping centre.

Facilities at the sports village currently include:

Cardiff International Pool, featuring a 50m Olympic standard swimming pool, a leisure pool with flumes and a lazy river plus 110-station gym;
The Cardiff Arena, also known as Cardiff Bay Ice Arena with a capacity of 2,500 for ice hockey;
Cardiff International White Water (CIWW), featuring a host of water sports facilities including kayoing, canoeing and white water rafting. The recently opened FlowRider at CIWW provides indoor surfing all year round for novices and pros alike.

Other developments in Cardiff Bay include expansion of Porth Teigr, home to the BBC Roath Lock studios, World of Boats, and Doctor Who Experience. Porth Teigr will span 38 acres and cater for creative, office, hotel, retail, leisure and residential uses.

Wales Book of the Year 2013 Shortlist

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Today the shortlist for the Wales Book of the Year 2013 has been revealed. The competition promotes writing in both English and Welsh. This year however is the first time an author is competing in both languages.

There are six categories: poetry, fiction and non-fiction categories in both English and Welsh.

English language shortlist:

Roland Mathias Poetry Prize:
Rhian Edwards, Clueless Dogs (Seren)
Deryn Rees-Jones, Burying of the Wren (Seren)
Samantha Wynne Rhydderch, Banjo (Picador)

Fiction:
James Smythe, The Testimony (Blue Door)
Gee Williams, A Girl’s Arm (Salt Publishing)
Matthew Francis, Singing a Man to Death (Cinnamon Press)

Creative Non-Fiction:
John Harrison, Forgotten Footprints (Parthian)
Jon Gower, Wales at Water’s Edge (Gwasg Gomer)
Meic Stephens, Welsh Lives (Y Lolfa)

Welsh language shortlist:

Poetry:
Llion Jones, Trydar Mewn Trawiadau (Cyhoeddiadau Barddas)
Eigra Lewis Roberts, Parlwr Bach (Gwasg Gomer)
Aneirin Karadog, O Annwn i Geltia (Cyhoeddiadau Barddas)

Fiction:
Manon Steffan Ros, Blasu (Y Lolfa)
Dewi Prysor, Cig a Gwaed (Y Lolfa)
Tony Bianchi, Ras Olaf Harri Selwyn (Gwasg Gomer)

Creative Non-Fiction:
Meic Stephens, Cofnodion (Y Lolfa)
Aled Jones Williams, Tuchan o Flaen Duw (Gwasg Carreg Gwalch)
Heini Gruffudd, Yr Erlid (Y Lolfa)

Literature Wales administer the Award, with funding from the Arts Council of Wales. The winners of the prize will be announced at a ceremony at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff on 18 July. If you’d like to comment on the selection on Twitter, use the hashtag #WBOTY13.

The Man Booker Prize is due to be announced on 22 May. For those attending the Hay Festival (23 May - 2 June 2013), events featuring some of the Man Booker International Prize finalists on 24 May and an interview with the winner by the prize Administrator Fiammetta Rocco on 25 May are part of this year's offering.

The Hay Festival is world wide renowned literary festival, held every year in Hay on Wye.

Cardiff joins Food Security Land Research Alliance

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Food Security Land Research Alliance (FSLRA) today (Friday 10 May 2013) announced that the Cardiff University is to join the partnership.

The FSLRA was launched in October 2011, using world class inter-disciplinary research to tackle the global challenges associated with developing sustainable food security.

The FSLRA partnership between the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter and Rothamsted Research brings together expertise across a range of disciplines from biosciences and agricultural sciences to economics and social sciences, establishing the South West as a centre of global research excellence in food security research and land management.

Professor Hywel Thomas, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research, Cardiff University said

“We are delighted to announce that Cardiff University has joined the Food Security and Land Research Alliance to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing humanity: how can we sustainably feed a growing population? Cardiff will bring a wealth of expertise in the areas of food policy and governance to the Alliance, which is characterised by cross institutional working and an inter-disciplinary approach,”

Professor Terry Marsden, Director of the Sustainable Places Research Institute at Cardiff added:

“Tackling the global food security crisis is one of the most important challenges we now face, with a growing population and increasing pressure on natural resources, we need research to help develop a sustainable food system for the future. We are looking forward to strengthening our partnerships with Bath, Bristol, Exeter and Rothamsted through this strong and productive Alliance.”

Wales on tour

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 8 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Last week saw three major announcements made which involve Welsh Rugby.

The 2013 British and Irish Lions touring party for the series this summer against Hong Kong and Australia was named with fifteen of the players being Welsh. The Welsh contingent will be joined byten players from England, nine from Ireland and three from Scotland.

Sam Warburton was named captain and becomes the youngest ever in the history of the British and Irish Lions at 24 years of age. Wales’ involvement with the Lions does not end there. Warren Gatland, currently the Wales National Coach, is Head Coach of the side and is joined by former Wales and British and Irish Lions representatives, Neil Jenkins and Rob Howley. Neil and Rob are responsible as Assistant Coaches for both kicking and attacking respectively.

The British and Irish Lions begin their tour in Hong Kong on June 1st and move on to Australia on the 5th June. The final test is at Sydney on the 6th July.

Wales’ squad for the summer tour in Japan has also been named. Robin McBryde will lead the coaching duties. Wales will play their first test on the 8th of June in Osaka, and the second and final test in Tokyo. Thirty two players were named with the squad to be reduced to twenty seven before leaving for Japan. Eleven uncapped players have been named, with regular players such as Bradley Davies and Rhys Priestland joining the list.

Former Wales international Shane Williams plays club rugby in Japan and was in full praise of the country. "I know a lot of Welsh players are looking forward to the tour next season. For me, Japan probably is one of the most hospitable places in the world, and certainly for a young squad coming on tour, there is no better place to come.

In another announcement, The Millennium Stadium will host eight games for the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Three Pool A games, two from Pool D and one from Pool C will be played in Cardiff. These games will involve France, Ireland, Australia, Wales and current champions, New Zealand. The Millennium Stadium will also host two quarter final games.

FM welcomes Lesotho’s Minister for Sport to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 8 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister, Carwyn Jones and the Minister for Culture and Sport, John Griffiths welcomed Lesotho’s Minister for Sport, Chief Thesele John Maseriban to Wales to discuss continued partnership between both countries in sport and recreation.

The Lesotho Olympic team prepared for the London 2012 Games in Wrexham and the Minister is visiting Wales to see first hand those facilities and to thank Wales for its support.

The First Minister said:

“I am pleased to welcome Lesotho’s Minister for Sport to Wales. We were delighted to have the Lesotho Olympic Team here last summer for their pre-Games training at some of our world class facilities in Wrexham.

“Wales has enjoyed strong links with Lesotho for 27 years through a large number of community based initiatives and we have committed to support Welsh work in Lesotho in this financial year through our Wales for Africa programme. A good example is the help we provide the country develop its own Climate Change Strategy using Welsh Government staff. Our staff learn new skills and an insight into the global nature of Climate Change whilst Lesotho benefits from expertise they do not have.

“Our meeting is an opportunity to build on our relationship and explore future ways we can offer support and work together to benefit both our countries.”

Minister for Sport & Culture, John Griffiths, said:

"Today's meeting represents a welcome opportunity for us to explore the possibilities of working together and using sport as a vehicle to help young people and communities in Lesotho."

Under Milk Wood Twitter Exchange

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 7 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This Friday, 10 May 2013, marks the 60th anniversary of the first stage performance of Dylan Thomas' Under Milk Wood. Celebrate with a modern twist. The residents of Llareggub will once again be tweeting.

Back in October last year people enjoyed the tweets to celebrate National Poetry Day. Follow the Dylan Thomas Centre @DTCSwansea on Twitter and get ready for more tweets from Llareggub's best loved characters. To join in the discussion use the hashtag #milkwood.

Under Milk Wood is a 1954 radio drama, first performed on stage in 1953. The drama was made into a film starring Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. It features an all-knowing narrator who invites the audience to listen to the dreams and innermost thoughts of the inhabitants of a fictional small Welsh fishing village called Llareggub. The performance includes seven of the best-loved characters from Under Milk Wood.

The Dylan Thomas Centre in Swansea, south west Wales has a permanent exhibition on Dylan Thomas, one Wales’ best known writers. Ever year the Dylan Thomas Festival takes place 27 October – 9 November.

National Poet of Wales in New York

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This week the National Poet of Wales, Gillian Clarke, is performing at the New York PEN World Voices Festival. Clarke is the first Welsh writer to be invited to speak at the week-long event, widely considered to be the most prestigious literary festival in the world.

Writers from across the globe convene at the festival. Gillian Clarke is participating in a unique event showcasing Welsh literary culture alongside Native American and Mexican indigenous languages. Clarke also joins a panel discussing how language can be a political force in the development of cultures and the preservation of endangered languages, sharing ideas with writers from British Columbia and Mexico.

The Welsh Government and Literature Wales are supporting the festival. First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

“It is important that Wales places itself confidently on the global stage. The PEN World Voices is an opportunity to do so and showcase our rich culture to the world in a positive and progressive way. I am delighted that we are able to support the inclusion of our National Poet to this prestigious event and I hope it opens up other opportunities for us to promote our literary talent internationally.”

Gillian Clarke says:

“I’m honoured to represent Wales in such an important forum. Wales is a small country, but Welsh, the oldest living European language, holds the earliest recorded poetry in Britain. Minority languages must flourish in an increasingly homogenised world to nurture cultural, political and ethnic diversity and debate. Wales is a glowing example of a country which truly speaks with two tongues. We have much to share.”

Dusseldorf-Cardiff Flights

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow (4 May 2013) sees the start of the new route from Dusseldorf, Germany to Cardiff. We look forward to welcoming more German visitors to Wales.

The inaugural flight of the Lufthansa direct route from Dusseldorf, Germany will arrive at Cardiff Airport tomorrow morning. In line with aviation tradition, a water cannon salute from the Airport’s fire engine will take place on arrival (weather dependent) followed by a welcome reception.

A group of tour operators and journalists from Germany will be on the inaugural flight to Cardiff. Visit Wales, the Welsh Government's tourism arm has organised a familiarisation visit for them which will take them from south Wales to north Wales giving them a flavour of what Wales has to offer.

The familiarisation visit will include Radisson Blu Hotel; Cardiff, Cardiff Bay; Chapel 1877; St Fagans National History Museum; Llanerch Vineyard; Cardiff Castle; National Museum of Wales, Cardiff ; Penderyn Welsh Whisky Distillery; The Coach House Hotel, Brecon; The Castle Cottage Restaurant with Rooms, Harlech; Portmeirion; Welsh Highland Railway; Caernarfon Castle; Plas Newydd Country House; Llechwedd Slate Caverns, The Royal Oak Hotel, Betws y Coed; Bodnant Food Centre and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Happy Birthday Wales Coast Path

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 2 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Since its opening twelve months ago the Wales Coast Path has proven to be very popular with both locals and visitors. Awareness of the continuous path since its launch has also significantly improved among path users from 17% to 43%.

In addition to enjoying a scenic walk along part of the Wales Coast Path the Minister will also be shown a new food finder app – Real Food Wales - that helps visitors and locals find places along the route that sell food that is both local and sustainable.

Speaking before his visit to Kidwelly the Minister said:

“We are blessed with wonderful coastline and the development of the Wales Coast Path, which is the first of its kind in the world, has brought significant benefits to Wales."

“The Path is already providing a boost to local economies around our coastline and is attracting thousands of visitors to Wales."

“I’m confident that new technology, such as the Real Food Wales app, will encourage more people to experience what the Wales Coast Path has to offer which will in turn provide a welcome boost to the local economy."

“Walking parts of the Path is a free and enjoyable way of increasing physical activity and maintaining a healthier lifestyle."

“I’d like to wish the Wales Coast Path a very happy first birthday and would urge everybody to get out and explore their local coastline and take advantage of what’s on our doorstep!”

Happy Birthday Wales Coast Path

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 2 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In 2012 the Lonely Planet recommended the Welsh coastline as the no.1 region in the world to visit in 2012. Since its opening the Wales Coast Path has contributed £16m to the Welsh economy, attracted 1.6 million day visitors and been responsible for 835,000 overnight stays.

The Welsh Government is investing £1.15 million in 2013/14 to ensure the Wales Coast Path remains of a consistently high quality. Development of the Path is managed on behalf of the Welsh Government by Natural Resources Wales.
Since 2007, the Welsh Government has invested up to £2m a year into the creation of the Path that has been supplemented by £4m from the European Regional Development Fund over four years.

Following his visit to Kidwelly the Minister will visit Aberystwyth to hear about the innovative ways Ceredigion Council is developing to encourage more people to take advantage of the coastal path.

Happy Birthday Wales Coast Path

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 2 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Real Food Wales is an iPhone app that won last year’s Geovation Challenge – which challenged entrepreneurs to find a way of promoting local businesses and the coast path.

Initially mapping over 150 of the best food businesses in Pembrokeshire the app helps tourists find local, sustainable and delicious food while they are in the area.
The Real Food Wales app was created by Newport sisters, Helen and Nicola Steer.

Helen said:

”Highlighting the exceptional range of local food businesses we have in Wales encourages food tourism and keeps food spend in the community.”

“We are launching the app over the May bank holiday and hope to expand to include many other areas along the WCP by the end of the summer. We’ll be celebrating the app going live at the event on Thursday, then on Saturday we’re hosting a Big Welsh Walk and Feast from Newgale to St Davids, where we will be showcasing local breweries and food producers with free tastings.”

Angela Charlton, Director Ramblers Cymru said:

“It was wonderful to see over 5,500 people take part in the inaugural Big Welsh Walk around the Wales Coast Path last year. The Path is a fantastic opportunity for everyone whether they are looking for a short seaside ramble or a more challenging cliff top hike.”

“Walking has so many benefits – it keeps you fit, keeps you happy and it’s a chance to spend quality time outdoors with your friends and family. The Wales Coast Path offers magnificent opportunities: for tourism, for pure enjoyment, for Wales...and most certainly for walkers.”

Happy Birthday Wales Coast Path

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 2 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

To celebrate the first anniversary of the Wales Coast Path opening the Minister for Culture and Sport, John Griffiths, will today (Thursday, 2 May 2013) join Ramblers Cymru in walking part of the path in the historic West Wales town of Kidwelly.

Joining the Minister along the walk at Kymer’s Quay in Kidwelly, which forms part of the 870 mile Wales Coast Path that covers every inch of the Welsh coastline, will be local school children and families.

Welsh footballer Gareth Bale wins both PFA Awards

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Wales and Tottenham Hotspur footballer Gareth Bale has created history by becoming only the third man to win both PFA Player and Young Player of the Year awards.

It is the second time that Gareth has won the PFA Player of the Year award, which he also won two years ago after impressive performances both domestically in the Barclays Premier League and UEFA Champions League.

The previous footballer to achieve this feat was Portugal and current Real Madrid star, Christiano Ronaldo in the 2006/07 season when he played for Manchester United.

Gareth beat off competition from a list of stellar names. Also nominated for the PFA Player of the Year award were Liverpool's Luis Suarez, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Juan Mata, and finally Manchester United's Robin Van Persie and Michael Carrick.

“When you look at the list there are some massive names on it and the other nominees have been unbelievable this year, but I couldn’t have done it without the team,” Bale said.

“They have been fantastic this year and so has the manager.

Gareth began is career playing for Southampton before completing a move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2006 for £7m. He is also an integral part of the Wales national team, having played 41 times previously.

It was also a successful weekend for Welsh football clubs. Cardiff City lifted the npower Championship trophy after cementing promotion to the Barclays Premier League.

Also, both Newport and Wrexham booked a place at Wembley Stadium for the Blue Square Premier Play-Off Final. This guarantees that Wales will be guaranteed one club participating in the npower Football League next season.

Welsh Asian Women Achievement Awards success

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Glittering ceremony held at Cardiff’s City Hall

The achievements of Welsh Asian women have been celebrated at an inspiring awards ceremony in Cardiff (Saturday April 27).

Cardiff University’s Professor Meena Upadhyaya established the Welsh Asian Women Achievement Awards to recognise Asian women who have made a significant contribution to Wales and Welsh life.

Awards were given out for achievement in the categories of Science, Technology and Medicine; Arts; Business, Management and Leadership and Social and Humanitarian. This is the only recognition scheme currently in place in Wales that identifies, publicises and applauds the merits of Asian women in these areas.

Welsh Asian Women Achievement Awards success

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Professor Upadhyaya, School of Medicine said:

“I was inspired and humbled by the exciting stories and the achievements of so many wonderful women. The atmosphere was warm, friendly and celebratory and I was delighted to welcome a panel of very distinguished guests and representatives from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Afghanistan, Malaysia, Japan and China to help us celebrate the event.”

The 2013 ceremony is the second in the Award’s history and featured traditional Indian dance, music and song from acclaimed performers including internationally acclaimed singer Sunita Menon and musician Ketan Salim.

Award winners included Indu Deglurkar in the category of Science, Technology and Medicine. Indu is a consultant Cardiothoracic surgeon at the University Hospital of Wales, one of only five female consultant cardiac surgeons in the UK.

The award for Management and Leadership went to Rakhshanda Shahzad, Director of Service Delivery for BAWSO, an all Wales organisation which provides specialist services to black and ethnic minority women and children fleeing domestic abuse.

Nirmala Pisavadia took the Social and Humanitarian Award for her work with Sight Cymru promoting prevention of needless sight loss in black and ethnic minority communities in Wales. Nirmala set up MEGAFOCUS Wales, a group of multi-disciplinary professionals who work with people with sight loss to manage treatment and also to spread awareness of the cause. Nirmala was born in Kenya and has lived in Wales for almost 33 years.

This year’s event also featured a new category of Lifetime Achievement Award presented to three inspirational individuals:

Dr Minakshi Choksi came to the UK in 1964 from India and has provided outstanding service to the NHS in Wales as a Consultant Anaesthetist. Dr Choksi has worked tirelessly to promote integration within the pan-Asian community in Cardiff by encouraging greater interaction, mutual respect and tolerance.

Angela Kwok originally from Hong Kong moved to Wales in 1972. As a Chinese woman living in the UK, she discovered many of the Chinese women had difficulty speaking with the local community and were not able to understand English. Angela went on to set up Cardiff Chinese Community Services Association (CCCSA) to provide interpretation and translation services as well as organising cultural events in Cardiff such as celebrations for Chinese New Year.

Valbai Keshra was born in the Bharasar province of India and moved to Cardiff in 1968. She could speak very little English and lacked confidence to communicate with others until 7 years ago when she started working towards her Maths and English exams. Now at the age of 74, Valbai has a new sense of confidence when facing the world and is able to converse easily with those around her. Her ambition is to share her knowledge, skills and experiences by running a class for women in similar situations.

Honoured guests at the ceremony included Menna Richards (Vice-President of Cardiff University and the previous controller of BBC Cymru Wales); Lord Lieutenant of South Glamorgan, Peter Beck; Baroness Anita Gale; former First Minister Rhodri Morgan and Assembly Ministers Jane Hutt, Julie Morgan, Kirsty Williams and Jenny Rathbone.

Cardiff University strongly supported the awards with judges including Professor Teresa Rees from the School of Social Sciences; Professor Julian Sampson, Head of the Institute of Medical Genetics; Emeritus Professor Susan Denman, formerly of the School of Medicine; Professor Terry Threadgold, former Pro Vice-Chancellor for Staff and Diversity and Professor Dianne Edwards from the School of Earth and Ocean Sciences.

The ceremony was attended by 280 people, and a proportion of the profits will go to Cancer Research Wales.

Research Merit Award awarded

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Professor Gert Aarts, from the Physics Department, in the College of Science at Swansea University, has been awarded the esteemed Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award.

The awards established in 2000 by The Royal Society, the UK’s national academy of science, recognises excellence in the field of research and awards funding to seek to retain or recruit outstanding researchers for the UK.

Professor Aarts joins the honorary list of 27 newly appointed Wolfson Research Merit Award holders. This year’s award holders are working on a wide range of project topics including the use of personalised genome data for cancer treatment, climate tipping points, and the exploration of Mars.

Jointly funded by the Wolfson Foundation and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the Merit Award scheme aims to provide universities with additional support to enable them to attract science talent from overseas and retain respected UK scientists of outstanding achievement and potential.

In his research, Professor Aarts explores the behaviour of strongly interacting matter under extreme conditions: how do quarks and gluons, the fundamental building blocks of matter, respond to very high temperature or pressure, present in the early Universe or inside neutron stars? Under normal conditions, quarks are confined in protons and neutrons, which together with electrons make up the elements in the Periodic Table. However, at temperatures of around 1012 K protons and neutrons dissolve and a new state of matter is formed: the so-called quark-gluon plasma. Obviously, these extreme temperatures cannot easily be reached and it takes a particle accelerator such as the Large Hadron Collider at CERN to carry out experimental studies. In recent years CERN has produced many exciting results on the quark-gluon plasma, by colliding lead ions with unprecedented energies.

As a theoretical particle physicist, Professor Aarts investigates properties of this new state of matter from the safety of his office in the Vivian Tower on the University campus, by combining analytical ‘’pen and paper’’ calculations with results from large-scale numerical simulations on High-Performance Computing (HPC) facilities.

Professor Aarts commented: ‘’Swansea University has one of the largest Particle Theory groups in the UK and the leading HPC group for investigations of this kind. Together with my Swansea colleagues and collaborators in Germany, Ireland, Italy, Korea and elsewhere, we have been able to contribute to the theoretical understanding of the quark-gluon plasma and devise new numerical methods for underexplored questions.’’

Professor Aarts work is primarily driven by the quest for a fundamental understanding of how Nature works at the smallest scales. He added: ‘’Although the HPC aspects of my work provide an excellent training ground for PhD students, it is gratifying that this mostly blue skies research has been rewarded with the Wolfson Award, without the need for the presence of interdisciplinary work or the requirement of immediate impact.’’

In the past years, Professor Aarts has co-organised a number of international meetings to bring together scientists in the field, at ECT* (Trento, Italy, 2009), the Institute for Nuclear Theory (Seattle, USA, 2012) and most recently at Swansea University. By serendipitous timing the Strong and Electroweak Matter (SEWM2012) Conference, attended by 130 participants from Japan to Brazil, took place exactly one week after the discovery of the Higgs boson at CERN and Professor Peter Higgs gave the keynote lecture at the meeting.

Next year he will organise an international Workshop at GSI (Darmstadt, Germany, 2014). Professor Aarts said: ‘’Communication and the exchange of ideas are essential for scientific progress. The possibility to organise a meeting which brings together world-leading experts is always exciting, since it may lead to the new idea we have all been waiting for.’’

During the next five years, Professor Aarts hopes to make progress particularly on the description of strongly interacting matter in cases where the number of quarks exceeds the number of anti-quarks, a problem which has baffled physicists ever since the theory of the strong interaction was formulated.

Welsh Food exhibits at Seafood Expo Brussels

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Alun Davies has welcomed the work of six Welsh companies who are exhibiting a variety of excellent products at this weeks annual European Seafood Exposition and Seafood Processing Europe event.

The annual European Seafood Exposition and Seafood Processing which is being held in Brussels is the World’s largest seafood trade fair. Last year 25,600 buyers, suppliers, media and other seafood-industry professionals from over 140 countries attended the 2012 fair to meet face to face and do business. The fair's 21st edition is scheduled for 23-25 April 2013.

Welsh produce on show include:

Angelsey Aquaculture Ltd who will be exhibiting their sustainably-farmed sea bass.
W M Shellfish who will be showing a variety of shellfish caught on the beautiful island of Anglesey.
The Lobster Pot who will be exhibiting top quality fresh sustainably sourced seafood also from Anglesey.
Thomas Shellfish who will display high quality rope grown mussels.
Selwyns Seafood Ltd a family run business will be attending bringing their laverbread, mussels and cockles from the Gower Peninsula.
Bangor Mussel Producers who were awarded the coveted Marine Stewardship Council badge for the highly sustainable way in which they produce Mussels

The Minister also congratulated Selwyns Seafood Ltd who have reached the final of the Seafood Prix dElite competition with their Crispy Seaweed Snack. The Competition names the best new retail and foodservice seafood products of the year and also recognizes innovative seafood companies with special awards for health and nutrition, retail packaging, originality, convenience and seafood product line. Winners will be announced at the awards reception on Tuesday 23 April 2013.

Minister for Natural Resources and Food, Alun Davies, said:

“Wales is one of the best performing countries within the European retail market with a growth rate of 6.4% or £310m during 2011-2012. Food is a priority for the Welsh Government and we are supporting the industry to develop and move in positive new directions. With over 21,000 tonnes of seafood being landed in Wales in 2010-2011, we are embracing new technology and advancements in research and development to put Wales at the forefront of food production.

“It’s also great to see a Welsh company in the final of the Seafood Prix dElite competition, and I would like to wish Selwyn’s Seafood Ltd the best of luck!”

Hay Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It is just over a month until this year’s Hay Festival, which takes place 23 May – 2 June.

The line up for this year’s festival includes the Dylan Thomas Prize winner, Maggie Shipstead from the USA, Pulitzer prize winner Anne Applebaum and Vikas Swarup, writer of Slumdog Millionaire.

There will be talks to mark both the 100 year anniversary of the birth of Welsh poet R S Thomas and the 200th anniversary of the publication of the ever popular Jane Austen novel Pride and Prejudice.

As always, the topics discussed vary widely. This year’s include the topical subjects of climate change, economy and technology as well as fashion and food. Younger members of the family can enjoy the ‘Hay Fever’ programme.

Visitors can enjoy music from across the globe, including Amadou & Mariam, Rokia Traore and Terakaft, celebrating Hay’s Twin Town of Timbuktu and Wales’ own Cerys Matthews.

As well as the festival, visitors can enjoy Hay Castle tours and a walking festival.

Cardiff City Celebrations

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

After securing a place in the Premier League last Tuesday, the celebrations continued this weekend, as Cardiff City secured the Championship Trophy on Saturday.

Cardiff drew 1-1 with Burnley at an away game this Saturday. This was enough to win the trophy.

Fans will get a chance to celebrate on Sunday 5 May, when a victory parade on an open top bus tour takes place in the city centre and Cardiff Bay.

FM welcomes German Ambassador to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister, Carwyn Jones, today (Monday 22 April 2013) welcomed Germany’s Ambassador to the UK, Georg Boomgaarden, to Wales to discuss how the two countries can maximise their trade and business links.

Germany is already a significant contributor to the Welsh economy, with over 90 German owned enterprises operating in Wales – including Siemens, Rehau, RWE Npower and Continental Teves - which together employ around 12,000 people from the Welsh workforce.

In addition, the Welsh Government secured an additional four investments in Wales by German owned companies over the past 12 months.

Welcoming the Ambassador, the First Minister said,

“I am pleased to welcome the Ambassador to Wales. We already have a very strong relationship with Germany, with a number of major German businesses thriving in Wales and providing high valued employment.

“Wales already offers many benefits for investors across a range of sectors, including the most generous package of financial support available in the UK. This is a very powerful tool as we do everything we can to attract high quality inward investment to Wales.

“Our talks have been the perfect opportunity to thank the Ambassador for the commitment and confidence German companies have shown to Wales – and to discuss how we can build on this strong relationship and continue to attract high quality inward investment opportunities from Germany.”

Swansea Students Set for International Competition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Students from Swansea University have been selected to participate in one of the most competitive national debate programmes in the world.

Four international undergraduate students will showcase their communication skills at the International University Arabic Debating Championship in Doha, Qatar, organised by the Qatar MICE Development Institute, a Qatar Foundation Joint Venture.

This is the first time a UK University has been invited to attend the annual event and students from over forty universities world-wide will battle against each other between 21 and 24 April.

Five debate rounds in two days will produce the top four teams. Those top four teams will compete in the semi-finals and the winners of those two debates will go head to head in the grand final debate at the closing ceremony.

The three successful teams will receive trophies and the ten best speakers will be honoured with special medals for their outstanding performance in the entire competition.

Preparing for the competition has entailed months of research, analysis and discussion to develop the students’ argumentation and persuasion skills. Coached by two trainers, the University’s Muslim Students Adviser and Students Union International Officer, regular practice sessions and a trial debate were held in the Mosque on campus.

Layla Sabeel, a second year Engineering undergraduate student said:

‘‘I was delighted to be chosen to represent Swansea University at such a high profile international competition. It will hopefully provide us with a platform to express our opinions and interact with other international students. I look forward to putting the skills we have learnt to the test and bring the trophy back to Swansea!’’

Professor Iwan Davies, Swansea University Pro Vice Chancellor responsible for Internationalisation concluded:

‘‘We are proud that students of ours will play a part in such a prestigious event. The competition will no doubt provide them with valuable skills and prepare them for life post University. We wish our students the best of luck and although we hope their hard work will result in a victory for Swansea, we are confident they will all enjoy the experience whatever the final result.’’

Celtic Media Festival in Swansea

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This year’s Celtic Media Festival takes place from 24 – 26 April in Swansea.

The festival is targeted at people in the Creative Industry Sector. There will be some events open to the general public.

Killing director Birger Larsen will feature on two of the panels and a limited number of delegates will be able to tour the set of Da Vinci’s Demons - a new TV production, which has just started being broadcast in both the USA and the UK.

Celtic Media Festival's aim is to promote the languages and cultures of the Celtic countries on screen and in broadcasting. It will also focus on Wales’ international reputation as a versatile location for filming. Doctor Who, Torchwood and Sherlock all produced in Wales.

RHS Show Season begins in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Most people have heard of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show but did you know that the RHS starts the season in Cardiff? This week is National Gardening Week and the first RHS Show of the season takes place in Bute Park, Cardiff from 19 – 21 April.

RHS Show Season begins in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

While not on the same scale as Chelsea, the show gets bigger every year. It is just the place to inspire gardeners. Although it feels very spring like in Cardiff this week, the season has take a little time to get off the ground this year and it will be interesting to see how the exhibitors have dealt with this. The popular show includes spectacular spring plant displays, floral Marquees and a Plant Village full of a variety of plants to take home.

After a cold start in the UK this spring, temperatures are on the increase and spring flowers are beginning to bloom. It is around this time of year when the magnolia campbelli's enormous pink flowers bloom in Portmeirion in north west Wales, one of the many gardens in Wales.

Da Vinci’s Demons

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Da Vinci’s Demons, an historical fantasy written by critically-acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy co-writer David S Goyer, had two international premiere screenings in Florence and Cannes before hitting the small screens across the US last week.

Most of the show was shot on location around south Wales, using many of the local historic castles and monuments, and at a specially-constructed studio built within a former car factory site on Swansea Bay using local craftsmen and suppliers.

The Welsh Government Economy Minister Edwina Hart said:

“Da Vinci’s Demons has provided a great boost for Wales and our creative industries sector as well as providing great exposure for the Swansea Bay area specifically. Its success will reflect on the expertise and capability in Wales and the abundant talent we have here.

The Minister added the worldwide release of Da Vinci’s Demons has come at an opportune time, when the sector is being actively promoted worldwide by the Welsh Government which is encouraging and welcoming new productions to Wales.

The Wales Screen Commission supported the production ensuring there was a pipeline of Welsh talent working on the production, maximising the economic benefits for Wales.

Glynneath-born Julie Gardner, SVP Programming BBC Worldwide Prodcutions and the show’s Executive Producer for Adjacent Productions, who is now based in Los Angeles, said the support and flexibility shown by the Welsh Government was instrumental in attracting Da Vinci’s Demon’s to Wales.

The former Dr Who Executive Producer said:

“We looked all over the world for possible locations for Da Vinci’s Demon’s but it was the creativity and experience of the production talent that made Wales the obvious choice. It’s less a case of bringing Hollywood to South Wales and more truthful to say that Wales has shown Hollywood how high the bar can be raised in television production. The Welsh Government and Neath Port Talbot Council have been incredibly helpful and we have even started to seek out the new generation of creative talent in the colleges and universities in the area.”

Cardiff City Promoted to the Premier League

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff City secured promotion to the Premier League on Tuesday 16 April following a nil draw with Charlton Athletic. Cardiff City has been top of the Championship since November and will now be focusing on securing the title for the first time in the club’s history.

The result means that Cardiff City will be playing in the top flight football for the first time in 51 years. It also means that Wales will have two teams in the Premier League.

The Premier League is the most-watched football league in the world, broadcast in 212 territories to 643 million homes and a TV audience of 4.7 billion people.

It is turning out to be a fantastic season for Wales’ other football clubs. Swansea City won the Football League Cup and is maintaining a strong performance in the Premier League, aiming for a top ten finish. Wrexham is hoping to add to the club’s F.A. Trophy win at Wembley with promotion into the Football League, although it might be at the expense of fellow Welsh side Newport County, who is also mounting its own promotion bid.

Congratulations to Cardiff City. We wish the club all the very best for next season.

Plenty of Tweets from Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There has been a lot of “tweeting” on Twitter about our feathered friends - quite appropriate really!

Many birds have started to arrive in Wales, ready to bred and nest. This week someone spotted a swallow at Traethllyfn beach, Pembrokeshire and another saw a common sandpiper at Cosmeston Country Park, south east Wales.

We’ve seen pictures of the sandmartins on the castle wall at Caerphilly Castle, as well as a pair of red crested grebes on the North Lake.

Reports from Skomer Island include the chiffchaffs and housemartins, along with many puffins that arrived earlier in the month.

RSPB Conwy reports include willow warblers, white wags, chiffchaffs and wheatears. We await news of the Glaslyn Ospreys hatching. Three eggs were laid last week.

This time of year is one we look forward to. Spring is a great time to see wildlife in Wales. As well as birds returning to Wales to nest, you can see seals, deer and even whales.

Hindu Council of Wales launches

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Communities Minister launches Hindu Council of Wales - new organisation to speak as one voice for Wales’ Hindus

This Week the Communities Minister, Huw Lewis, launched the newly formed Hindu Council of Wales at the Senedd.

The Council will act as a single voice for Wales’ Hindu population and have three main roles:

To promote Hindu culture, religion and values.
To voice issues that concern Hindus at local and national levels.
To represent Hindus in interfaith work that promotes mutual understanding amongst other faith organisations and their members.

Speaking in advance of the launch the Minister said:

“Modern day Wales is a society built on diverse and multi-cultural communities with people from a whole host of different backgrounds and unique characteristics and experiences. I strongly believe that this is what makes Wales such a vibrant nation and I am committed to improving the quality of life for everyone in Wales. I look forward to working with members of the Council.”

“The Welsh Government’s support of strong, integrated communities provides opportunities for neighbourhoods to work together to be resilient and tolerant.”

The Chair of HCW, Mrs Vimla Patel, MBE, said:

“I am delighted that HCW has been set up as this organisation is much needed. There are temples and groups all across Wales but until now no one voice to speak on our behalf. HCW will aim to be that voice. It will also promote better understanding of Hindu culture and religion.”

Mrs Nirmala Pisavadia and Mr Naran Patel will represent the HCW on the Welsh Government’s Faith Communities Forum.

According to the 2011 census, there are 10,434 Hindus living in Wales, almost double the number from 2001 (5,439). There are Hindus living in every local authority in Wales with the highest numbers in Cardiff (4,736), Swansea (780), Newport (685) and Wrexham (504).

For more information on Wales’ links with India, see our India pages.

National Theatre Wales in Japan

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Back in February, a Welsh audience had the chance to enjoy the talented Yamato drummers from Japan. Now it is the turn of the Japanese audience to enjoy the National Theatre Wales’ play, The Opportunity of Efficiency. The play opened in at the New National Theatre Tokyo this week and will continue for the rest of the month.

Artistic Director, John McGrath, directs leading Welsh playwright Alun Harris’ play.

Translated into Japanese, the play is the first international performance for the National Theatre Wales in Japan.

Hole in One for Jamie Donaldson

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Welshman Jamie Donaldson made a hole in one in his debut in the Masters in Augusta yesterday. He is only the 6th player to in the Master’s 77 year history to have ever done this.

Donaldson, from Pontypridd in south east Wales, won the Irish Open in 2012 and the HSBC Abu Dhabi Championship in January this year.

Always a popular sport, Wales has seen a surge in the number of people coming here to play since we hosted the Ryder Cup in 2010 at the Celtic Manor Resort. Golfers have around 200 golf courses to choose from in Wales.

Top American Scholars Visit Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This week the Welsh Government has hosted a delegation of 64 US Marshall Scholars. The students are studying in the UK as part of the Marshall Scholarship programme.

During their visit, the students met with the Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM, First Minister of Wales. They discussed the history of devolution in Wales and the challenges Wales faces in the future as a small, smart nation.

As part of their packed programme, they learned about the economy of Wales and its transformation from an economy based on heavy industries to a knowledge based economy.

The Marshall Scholars had an opportunity to experience Wales's unique culture and heritage. They learnt about the Welsh Language - in fact, they were all able to say a few words in Welsh by the end of the visit. They also learned about Wales's approach to sustainable development, which is a statutory responsibility of the National Assembly. Wales is one of the few countries in the world where sustainable development is a core responsibility for our government.

They had an opportunity to visit many of Wales' iconic buildings and locations like the Wales Millennium Centre, the Millennium stadium, the Senedd, the Big Pit National Coal Museum and Caerphilly Castle.

The students were delighted with the visit and the breadth of the programme. They stressed that they were extremely impressed with Cardiff and the warmth and hospitality, which had been extended to them whilst in Wales.

University of South Wales is launched

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The University of South Wales opens its doors to its 33,500 students today, (Thursday 11 April 2013).

The University, with campuses in Cardiff, Newport and the South Wales Valleys, is among the top 10 campus universities in the UK for size. It provides Wales with a major regional university, well equipped to compete with counterparts across the border.

Welcoming the new university, the First Minister of Wales, Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM said:

“As First Minister of Wales I want to welcome the University of South Wales. This is an initiative that shows leadership and strategic thinking in action.

The University’s partnership with major international companies like General Electric and British Airways are examples of how Wales can compete with the best."

Professor Julie Lydon, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said:

“The University of South Wales will compete equally for students and reputation with the UK’s major regional universities and will help the region compete head to head for investment and growth with major city-regions such as Bristol, Manchester, London, and Tyneside.”

The University of South Wales brings together the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales, Newport. It attracts students from 122 countries across the world.

The University is a member of the St David’s Day Group, recognised as one of Wales’s five major research-active universities.

Sidi Goma Dhamal Emsemble

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Folk dance and music from Western India

Enjoy an evening of folk dance and music from western India

The Sidis of Gujarat are a tribal community of East African origin which came to India eight centuries ago and made Gujarat their home. They carried with them their exceptionally rich musical traditions and kept them alive and flourishing through the generations, unknown to the rest of the world.

Traditionally, the ensemble perform sacred music and dance as wandering faqirs (holy men), singing songs to their black Sufi saint, Bava Gor. They have lived on accepting alms for touring these devotional genres from villages to shrines for centuries.

Their native African music styles, melodic and rhythmic structures, lyrics and musical instruments have integrated with local influences to form this unique representation of Afro-Indian culture.

This is a very rare opportunity to see this community in performance and to learn some of the performance techniques.

6pm Sunday 21 April 2013
(Followed by an Authentic Gujarati Dinner) at the India Centre, Cardiff

£10 per adult
Tickets can be purchased at: VFS office, India Centre, Sanquahar street, Cardiff
Open from 9.30am to 2.30pm - Mon to Friday

Presented by: Indian Consulate in Wales, Nehru Centre, London
Indian Council for Cultural Relations, New Delhi

Record 1.75 million at Wales’ National Museums

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The number of people visiting Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales’ sites is continuing to rise, with figures reaching a record high of 1.75 million visits in 2012-13 (9% above target).

Over the last 12 months, Amgueddfa Cymru’s seven museums collectively welcomed over 50,000 more visitors than in 2011 - 12, with four of the museums enjoying their best years ever (National Museum Cardiff, National Waterfront Museum in Swansea, National Wool Museum in Dre-fach Felindre and the National Roman Legion Museum in Caerleon).

National Museum Cardiff, which has developed its offer with a new National Museum of Art, refreshed natural history galleries and a strong changing programme of exhibitions and family events welcomed a record 477,399 visitors. The number of visitors to the city centre Museum has grown significantly over the last two years with an increase of 29% since 2010 – 11.

The National Waterfront Museum in Swansea with its strong events programme, reached a total of 271,452 visitors - 6% more than the previous year. Playing an important role in the local community, the industrial National Wool Museum in Drefach Felindre attracted an impressive 34,309 visitors - an extra 3,931 visitors.

The National Roman Legion Museum also achieved its best ever visitor figures, with 71,992 people welcomed by the Museum in Caerleon.

St Fagans: National History Museum’s successes came in July 2012 when it was given the largest ever grant awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund in Wales to redevelop the site, then in September when it was named the UK’s most loved museum by the consumer magazine Which?. In addition, 2012 – 13 saw the National Slate Museum celebrating its 40th Anniversary and the Olympic Torch Relay at Big Pit: National Coal Museum.

Digital 2013

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 5 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

By 2015 Wales plans that every residential and business premises will have next generation broadband. If you're interested in learning more about what Wales is doing in the ICT and Digital sectors, Digital 2013 is the place for you on 3-4 June.

You will learn more about recent Welsh developments and priorities for the future. Some recent Welsh developments include a significant increase in the use of Cloud Computing, e-Crime Wales security guidance and mobility issues such as Bring your own Device.

Digital 2013 is an opportunity for those interested in the ICT sector in Wales and beyond to learn more about the ICT and Digital agenda in Wales and to explore opportunities for collaboration. It will bring together suppliers and buyers from the public and private sectors in Wales, Europe, the UK, Europe and beyond.

Digital 2013 will take place at the Celtic Manor Resort on 3 & 4 June, in Newport, south Wales, where Golf's Ryder Cup took place in 2010.

For more information and to register your interest visit our business section.

ICC Champions Trophy in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 4 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We look forward to the ICC Champions Trophy in Cardiff this June. The Trophy, in which the top eight ODI national teams in the world compete in the 50 over form of the game, takes place every four years.

The ICC Champions Trophy will take place from 6 – 23 June in three venues in England and Wales: Cardiff, Edgbaston in Birmingham and The Oval in London. There are five games in Cardiff, including the championship’s opening game takes on 6 June, with India playing South Africa and a Semi final on Thursday 20 June.

This year also marks the 40th anniversary of international cricket in Wales. The first game was England v New Zealand in 1973 played at St Helen’s, Swansea, with England winning. England remain unbeaten in Wales – often aided by the weather!

Who can forget the momentous Ashes Test match in 2009, where England clung on to earn a draw thanks to the heroics of Monty Panesar and James Anderson.
The England team, representing both England and Wales, will be playing New Zealand in Wales again, with their group A match taking place at the Sophia Gardens on 16 June. For cricket loving dads, why not take your father to watch the game, a great Father’s Day treat!

Tickets are extremely good value. Under 16 tickets from £5, under 21 tickets from £10, and adults tickets from £20 in the family stand. This means a family of four can watch a whole day of top international cricket for just £50.

Buy tickets at icc-cricket.com or call 0844 249 2013. The only tickets Glamorgan are selling right now are disabled seating.

Tomos Watkin beers go on sale in China

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 3 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In November Tomos Watkins beers were a success at the Food and Hotel China 2012 trade show in Shanghai. Now one of the fastest growing beer brands in Wales are set to be the toast of Shanghai as the first consignment of the hand brewed beverage arrives in China.

It’s another first for the Swansea based Hurns Brewing Company which now exports its award winning range of beers, lager and cider to Australia, USA, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong.

CEO Connie Parry said:

"There was a huge amount of interest at the event and I am confident this is the start of a great relationship with our importers in China and the first of many orders. We are also following up leads from other interested parties we met out there."

Welsh museums shortlisted for awards

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 3 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Two museums in Wales, from either end of the country, have been shortlisted for awards.

Copper Kingdom, Anglesey

Amlwch Copper Bins is a new heritage visitor centre in Amlwch, which tells the story of how Anglesey was once the world’s leading copper producer.

The Copper Kingdom, which opened last year has been shortlisted for the Guardian’s Heritage and Museum Awards 2013.

The awards look for the most inspiring museum or heritage visitor attraction of the past year which should be a shining example of how to engage with audiences and visitors.

The Welsh Government’s Regeneration Minister Carl Sargeant said:

“It is a tremendous achievement to be recognised in this way less than a year after opening. The centre is an innovative and exciting way of preserving and telling the story of Anglesey’s heritage.

The centre, which has been developed by Menter Môn in association with the Amlwch Heritage Trust, is part of a major project to preserve and promote industrial, social and environmental heritage of Mynydd Parys and north eastern Anglesey.

Narberth Museum, Pembrokeshire

In Pembrokeshire, a museum that reopened last year is in the running for a museum of the year Art Fund Prize. Narberth Museum is one of ten museums across the UK competing for a £100,000 Art Fund Prize.

For a small entrance fee, visitors can see the extensive exhibition space that tells the story of the town and its’ people over the centuries.

Wales’ national museums

Other museums worth a visit are our National Museums. There are seven National Museums in Wales and admission at these is free.

British Summer Time and Easter

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We have two key dates this weekend. It will be both the start of British Summer Time and Easter Sunday.

The start of British Summer Time means our clocks go forward an hour and we will enjoy longer evenings. Sunset will be around 7.45 pm on 31 March. Sunset will be progressively later each evening, by June it will be light until after 9.30pm.

On Sunday we celebrate Easter Sunday. Many will enjoy a long weekend, with Easter Monday being a bank holiday.

There will be many events taking place over the bank holiday, including an Easter Feast at the National Botanical Garden of Wales.

Dyffryn House will be open to the public for the first time.

Swansea University research grant

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

£768,000 boost to support the next generation of engineers and scientists
Training grants worth £768,000 have been awarded to Swansea University to support young researchers in engineering and science, it was announced today by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

The money, awarded to selected universities across the UK, is for doctoral training grants (DTGs) and will help universities to recruit postgraduate students for research and support them during their projects.

David Willetts, UK government minister for Universities and Science, said:

“This significant investment underlines the UK’s commitment to top quality postgraduate research and training. It will drive growth and help secure our future as a leading science and engineering nation, with a wealth of skilled people able to tackle global challenges, from infrastructure planning to public health.”

Nurturing the next generation of researchers is an important part of the work of Swansea University. This funding will mean that the University is able to support more young researchers like Miquel Aguirre, Matt Carnie and Michael Gerardo, all from the University’s College of Engineering.

Miquel Aguirre, originally from Barcelona, is a PhD student and research assistant. He is working on an international project with colleagues in Spain, France, Germany and Belgium, looking at fast dynamics software. He explains:

The main idea is to build a computer code able to simulate structural dynamics problems. It should be able to simulate crash, impacts, material fracture or explosions. It’s applicable to the manufacturing, defence, automotive, civil, energy and aerospace industry.

Michael Gerardo, originally from Portugal, is a PhD student and research assistant. He is working on a European-funded research consortium project looking at potential uses for microalgae. He explains:

Microalgae can be a source for valuable commodities such as cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals and energy. To fully exploit the environmental and production aspects of microalgae, engineering technologies are being developed using membrane filtration. This will help with recovery of nitrogen and phosphorous from liquid effluents, microalgae dewatering and extraction of proteins, sugars and oils from algae.

Matt Carnie works on the SPECIFIC project, based in Port Talbot:

I specialise in hybrid organic photovoltaics and I’m researching solar cells. A lot of the research is as a result of collaborative work between Swansea, Bangor Uni and Imperial College London.

Bangor at Telders Moot Competition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Bangor Law School has made history by becoming the first team ever to represent Wales at a world-renowned mooting competition.

Law students Andrew Jones, Damian Etone, Cathal McCabe and Adam Gulliver will travel to the Netherlands to compete in the Telders International Law Moot Court – the most famous contest of its type in Europe – held at the seat of the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

The Telders International Law Moot Court is an educational event in which students from all over Europe compete against each other. Each team has to represent both the applicant and the respondent sides of a fictive legal case in conditions that simulate real court proceedings before the World Court.

With coaching from Law lecturers Dr Evelyne Schmid and Ms Yvonne McDermott, the team are now in the final stages of preparation. On Wednesday 17th April, they will make a final presentation of their arguments to an audience of their peers, friends and supporters before the semi-final and final rounds, which run between the 25th and 27th of April.

As part of their final preparations, the Bangor Telders Team are now searching for sponsors to help them meet the participation fee.

“It is an incredible achievement for the team to make it this far and to have the chance to represent Wales at such an extraordinary event”, said Dr Evelyne Schmid, who will accompany the students to Holland. “The preparation has been intense and the four team members are really talented.

The last remaining challenge is to find some sponsorship – all donations, no matter how small, will go a great way towards making this trip possible.”

Of the four team members, three are students on the Masters programme in International Criminal Law and Human Rights Law, first offered at Bangor in September 2011. Andrew Jones sees the Telders Competition as a unique opportunity to practice what he has learnt throughout his studies and to observe the workings of the international legal community and its processes.

Cathal McCabe, a graduate of Bangor Law School, is a founding member of the Bangor Comedy Society, which will host a special comedy night on 17th April to raise money towards the team’s fund. He ultimately hopes to become a barrister specialising in the areas of law pertaining to vulnerable people, particularly children.

Damian Etone, from Cameroon, won a prestigious and highly competitive Chevening scholarship to fund his studies at Bangor. Having grown up in the midst of human rights violations, his career ambition is to become a barrister specialising in human rights law and to equip himself to help his home country.

The fourth member of the Bangor Telders Team, Adam Gulliver, is an undergraduate student and Master of the Moot for the Bangor Students’ Law Society, which conducts its own annual mooting competitions with support from academic staff. He believes that the challenge of having to learn a lot about international law without any prior studies of it is something that has helped to develop his ability to learn independently and he hopes to motivate other students to participate in moot courts.

Gwilym Owen, lecturer in Law at Bangor Law School, voiced his support for the team as representatives of both the School and Wales: “as a Solicitor Advocate, I am very pleased to see Bangor students representing Wales in this competition. Their enthusiasm and commitment are a great inspiration for young people in the region. Legal practice in Wales will only benefit from such initiatives and I wholeheartedly support the students in their adventure!”

To donate to the Bangor Telders Team Fund, or to find out more about their cause, visit http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/investment/representing-wales-in-the-telders-international-law-moot-court-1653

Swansea to host premier Athletics Championships

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea will be hosting the 2014 IPC European Athletics Championships, the first time that the event has been held anywhere in the UK.

For further information, please visit the Swansea University website.

Culture Minister building on links with China

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

John Griffiths, the new Minister for Culture and Sport, last night met a senior cultural delegation from Guizhou province in China, in order to strengthen cultural links between our nations.

During an official event hosted by the British Council in Cardiff, the recently appointed Minister for Culture and Sport joined guests from the cultural heritage sector to discuss how to develop a deeper understanding and wider co-operation between museums in Guizhou and Wales, and build a framework to form long-term sustainable links.

Following the meeting the Minister said,

“I am very pleased to be taking up responsibility for Wales’s rich culture, which include our many wonderful museums and castles, to our arts and sports. We, as a nation, put a high value on safeguarding that culture and sharing it with others. It was therefore pleasing to meet with our guests and explore some of the avenues available to us.

“Wales and China have developed a very strong relationship in recent years and culture is a key area for collaboration. It can play a major role in developing mutual understanding between our peoples on which to build economic links. I very much hope that we can continue to build on these strong foundations of friendship in the future.”

China is the second largest economy in the world and offers huge potential in the trade and education areas in particular, while there is a thirst for more cultural links. The Welsh Government have focused its efforts on developing relationships at the Municipal / Provincial Government level through which it aims to develop business and other opportunities.

The previous Heritage Minister, Huw Lewis, who has now taken over responsibility for Communities and Tackling Poverty, recently returned from a six-day visit to China. The purpose of that visit was to reinforce and progress the Government-to-Government relationships established with the Municipal Governments of Beijing and Chongqing, and to promote Welsh interests in the fields of business, education and culture.

While he was in Chongqing, Mr Lewis met a delegation from the Culture Bureau of neighbouring Guizhou Province which was keen to develop wider links with Wales.

In April 2012, as part of the UK Now programme, a cultural heritage protection workshop was jointly organized by Guizhou Provincial Culture Department and British Council Chongqing in Gui Yang city, capital city of Gui Zhou province. In order to further build collaboration between museums in Wales and Guizhou, British Council Chongqing staff extended an invitation to Guizhou Provincial Culture Department and Guizhou Provincial Museum to visit UK in March 2013.

New Indian representative to Wales appointed

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones says the nation’s relationship with India has grown further with the formal appointment of the first ever Honorary Consul for India in Wales today (Thurs 21st March).

He attended a special ceremony in London where the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Dr. J. Bhagwati made Raj Aggarwal Honorary Consul to Wales. In his new role Raj will represent the Indian Government in Wales by providing consular services to the local Indian community and encouraging trade, education and cultural links and exchanges.

Wales’ links with India are already highly developed, with companies such as Tata and Reliance employing thousands. Educational links are also strong, with Cardiff University recently announcing a partnership with the University of Hyderabad and the L V Prasad Eye Institute to collaborate in optometry.

The First Minister said:

“I am delighted to be here to witness Raj Aggarwal become India’s first ever Honorary Consul to Wales. Raj is a prominent member of the local Indian community in Wales and it is fitting that he has been given this important role which symbolises the growing relationship between India and Wales as well as acting as a bridge between the Indian High Commission and the Welsh Government

“I want to see partnerships between our two countries continue to develop across a wide range of areas, through business, education, health, culture and sport. We have a strong base from which to work, thanks to the very welcome presence in Wales of Indian companies such as Tata Steel, Wockhardt and the Neterwala Group.

“Our universities are working in partnership to our mutual benefit and I am keen to emphasise that Wales is open for business and that we welcome not only Indian entrepreneurs, but also students and visitors from India.

“Today, however, I would simply like to convey my congratulations to Raj on such a prestigious appointment and to say that we look forward to working with him in the years to come.”

Raj Aggarwal is managing director of the Aggarwal Group which runs a number of successful businesses based in South Wales. He said:

“This is a special privilege that I and my family will always cherish. Wales is a dynamic small country and stronger links with the rising superpower that is India will be vital to its future prosperity. I will work tirelessly to build a deeper engagement between the two countries to which I and many Welsh people owe their allegiance. I am grateful to the Indian Government, Welsh Government and the Foreign Commonwealth Office for the confidence placed in me.”

There are now 28 honorary consuls based in Wales representing a diverse number of countries, including Brazil, Canada, France, Germany and Italy.

First Minister welcomes French Ambassador to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones has given a warm Welsh welcome to France’s Ambassador to the UK Bernard Emié as the pair held talks in Cardiff today.

In his first visit to Wales since taking up his post in 2011, the Ambassador also met the Minister for the Economy Edwina Hart and inward investment officials from the Welsh Government.

There are 80 French-owned companies active in Wales, employing almost 8,000 people. These include Airbus, Alcatel-Lucent and EADS.

Welsh – French educational links are also strong, with Aberystwyth University, Glyndwr University, Cardiff University and Swansea University having agreements with French institutions.

The First Minister said:

"It is a pleasure to welcome the Ambassador on his first visit to Wales. France is one of Wales’ most important international partners, with areas of cooperation across business, education and culture.

"French companies have invested significantly in Wales and employ more than 8,000 people. I am keen to see more French firms benefit from our workforce and well developed infrastructure. Our meeting has been the perfect opportunity to discuss how our two nations develop further our trade and business links."

Final weekend of 6 Nations Rugby

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow sees the end of the 6 Nations rugby tournament. There’ll be an afternoon kick of at the Millennium stadium when Wales take on England.

There’s much to play for – England is on track to win the Grand Slam unless Wales win. If Wales win by seven points then we will win the Six Nations Championship.

The stadium has a great advantage of being in the very centre of our capital city as it's close to the main restaurants, pubs and shops. Many who come to visit for the rugby return to Wales again after discovering what there is on offer in the city and further afield.

We’ve pretty excited about it all already and know the atmosphere will be even better come tomorrow.

BioWales attracts international audience

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

BioWales – the signature event for the Welsh life sciences sector - attracts international audience

The spotlight will be firmly fixed on the life sciences sector in Wales next week as BioWales 2013 opens its doors to an international audience, with delegates flying in from the USA, Cuba, China and Europe as well as the UK.

More than 500 delegates are expected for the two day event (March 19 - 20) which is now in its eleventh year and remains one of the UK’s largest life sciences conference and brokerage event held outside London.

Business Minister Edwina Hart said BioWales offered a great opportunity to showcase the expertise of the sector in Wales – work being carried out both in industry and academic research centres.

The Minister said:

“ We are also using the event to promote Wales as an excellent location for businesses working in this sector. Life sciences is one of our key economic sectors with potential for high growth and our focus is on business growth and commercial success. We strive to create the right environment for business and have a track record of actively helping companies locate, expand and prosper in Wales.

“As a Government we are committed to supporting the sector and its strategy for growth. Over the past year we have offered funding support to a diverse range of businesses working across the sector – from SMEs to multinationals - while later this year the first investments will be made from the £100million Wales Life Sciences Investment Fund to support and develop the sector in Wales.

“We will be stepping up our international trade programme this year and I am delighted to hear BioWales is attracting delegates from a number of our key markets where we have been actively promoting the sector.”

The links between NHS, industry and academia in delivering tomorrow’s health solutions is a key focus of the conference and exhibition that brings together leaders from the healthcare community. Delegates will also hear how devolved administrations such as the Welsh Government and NHS Wales are working together to support the life science industry agenda.

BioWales 2013 offers an unparalleled conference programme with world class guest speakers, researchers and industry leaders. The one-to-one technology brokerage event where potential collaborations, licensing and manufacturing deals are discussed is proving to be extremely popular with more than 200 meeting requests registered to date. Another area of interest are the workshop sessions providing expert advice on business opportunities in a number of international markets including China and the USA.

Welsh press history online

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A highly ambitious project that has made available online hundreds of thousands of pages of Welsh historical newspapers free of charge has been launched.

The National Library of Wales’ Historical Newspapers and Journals Project is digitising historical Welsh newspapers and journals, some dating back to the early 19th century, using the latest digital technology. The scheme began in 2009 and 600,000 pages are now publicly available completely free of charge.

The Welsh Government has provided £2 million to the £3 million project which is digitising all of the National Library's paper holdings of out-of-copyright newspapers and journals, generally those published in Wales up to 1911 and comprising hundreds of different titles touching all corners of Wales.

The aim is to create an easily accessible teaching and research library for schools, universities and home users relating to the culture, history and identity of Wales.

A dedicated team at the National Library is carefully scanning each page following the investment in a new digitisation studio. The condition and quality of the volumes vary greatly and in some cases conservation work is undertaken before fragile and damaged pages can be scanned.

The First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

“This highly ambitious project is about joining our past with our future, preserving how our nation’s story was told in the printed press for generations to come. People worldwide will be able to search for words, phrases and dates and discover countless stories at a touch of a button that would otherwise only be available in physical archives.”

The scheme will be officially launched by Heritage Minister Huw Lewis. He said:

“I am delighted the Welsh Government has been able to provide £2 million of support to this significant project that will be the largest body of searchable text relating to Wales and will contribute significantly towards the National Library’s vision to digitise the entire printed memory of Wales.”

Sir Deian Hopkin said:

"Newspapers are among the most important sources for the study of the past two centuries and this ground-breaking digitisation project will transform access to historic Welsh newspapers. This is a significant step in realising the Library’s strategic vision to ensure that Wales is the first nation to make its entire corpus of printed material freely availably to be searched and read online, by everyone."

Welsh festival announcements

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We are looking forward to the start of the festival season in Wales. There are many music festivals taking place during both the summer and autumn.

We are starting to hear of headlining acts already. Welsh band the Manic Street Preachers will headline Festival No 6.

Festival No 6 takes place in the village of Portmeirion in north west Wales. The name of the festival comes from the 1960s cult TV series, The Prisoner - filmed in the Italianate village.

The Manic Street Preachers, came from Blackwood in south east Wales. The band is currently recording their eleventh studio album and festival goers may well get to hear some of this new music in Portmeirion - the only UK appearance for the Manics in 2013.

Festival No 6, which recently won the ‘Best Small Festival’ at the NME Awards, takes place from 13 – 15 September. We see that people on Twitter looking forward to this festival and many others that will take place in Wales.

Other festivals taking place including the Green man festival, Wakestock and Brecon Jazz to name just a few.

Find out more about music festivals in the music section of Wales.com.

Interactive world-class exhibition at Dylan Thomas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Plans are underway to develop the Dylan Thomas Centre into an interactive world-class exhibition.

The exhibition is to coincide with activity in 2014, which also marks 100 years of the poet’s birth.

For future information please visit the Swansea Council website.

Creative industries the way to digiDo it

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Deputy Minister for European Programmes, Alun Davies, has launched a £2.2m initiative to help businesses in the creative industries exploit a unique digital collection of cultural heritage in a bid to increase their competitiveness.

Led by the National Library of Wales, the Digitisation for Business scheme, also known as digiDo, aims to provide companies across West Wales and the Valleys with a tailored service to help them access the largest repository of bilingual digital cultural heritage relating to Wales.

The Library’s collections include books, manuscripts, archives, maps, pictures and photographs as well as newspapers and journals – all of which is being made available digitally, including over 2 million pages of nineteenth century newspapers.

Today's launch (Tuesday 12 March) at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay will invite Welsh businesses, particularly SMEs involved in TV, music, film and new media, to get involved.

Through the scheme they will be offered coaching by digitisation experts to harness this digital content so they can develop new products, services and technologies which, in turn, could help them win new contracts. There will also be support for companies involved in professional family history/genealogy and translation, as well as artists, and craft industries who may benefit from access to designs such as for pottery and textiles.

The four-year scheme is backed by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, along with resources from the Library.
Launching the project, Deputy Minister for European Programmes, Alun Davies, said:

"Helping business to exploit new opportunities using digital content will stimulate growth in this exciting sector. I am pleased we have been able to invest EU funds to support companies adapt and respond to digitisation to maximise their potential and achieve commercial success.

"Delivering a Digital Wales outlines our goal to make Wales a truly digital nation with a thriving economy where everyone can access digital technologies and information, and acquire the skills to make the best of them."

Through the digiDo service, specialist advice and knowledge on a range of issues will be available from copyright and licensing, through to digital capture, digital storage and preservation to searching current resources. Information will be disseminated through training sessions and events. It is expected that through this activity a cluster of companies will be established who can collaborate on projects and share expertise to help secure further contracts.

During the launch there will be a number of speakers including Mike Parry who will be considering some of the commercial uses of new digital content. Also, Angharad Mair from Tinopolis will discuss her business background and how the digiDo project can help other businesses.

She said:

"The new digiDo project is tremendously exciting. There are priceless collections at the National Library of Wales and the thought of offering these treasures freely online to enable others to benefit financially, thereby boosting the economy in Wales in some of the poorest areas is especially valuable. I’m happy to be a part of such an important launch for Wales."

Andrew Green of the National Library of Wales said:

"The cultural and educational value of the digital knowledge produced by the National Library of Wales and similar institutions is well understood. There remains enormous potential to realise the commercial benefits. The National Library is proud to be taking a lead in introducing Welsh businesses to the value of this knowledge and its applications, and in placing some of its rich digital resources at their disposal."

Businesses interested in more information on the services that can be provided through the scheme can contact Project Manager, Dr Ted Jones 01970 632 928 or ted@llgc.org.uk

International Women’s day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 8 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Today is international Women’s day, a worldwide celebration of women and their achievements. Here are some inspirational Welsh women who by their actions and example have empowered others.

In 1870 Brecon born Frances Hoggan became the first British Woman and only the second in Europe to be awarded the degree of Doctorate of Medicine. This was 3 months before the more celebrated Elizabeth Garrett. It was pioneers like these which led the way for today’s women in medicine like Baroness Ilora Finlay of Llandaff, internationally recognised expert in palliative care.

In 1929, Megan Lloyd George was one of the first women to stand for election to Parliament and became MP for Anglesey. In 2003 history was made when Wales became the first legislative body in the world with equal numbers of men and women. While the numbers of women have dropped a little since then, two of the four political party leaders in the National Assembly for Wales are now women.

The Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard, was born in Cardiff.

In Europe, Shan Morgan, former UK Ambassador to Argentina is now the UK’s Deputy Permanent Secretary to the EU. Lowri Evans is the EU Commission’s Director General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries.

Elsewhere in public service, in January this year Louise Kelton, became only the second black woman to hold the post of US Marshal. Louise was born and brought up in Cardiff before moving to the United States.

Paralympic athlete Dame Tani-Grey Thompson, followed her own multi-gold medal winning career by being part of the team which put together the hugely successful London 2012 games. At those games 19 year old Jade Jones showed what dedication to sport can achieve by becoming Britain’s first ever Tae Kwon Do Olympic champion. Nicole Cooke, herself a double gold medal winner from Beijing retired from competitive cycling this year but was no doubt one of the people who inspired the future generation of cyclist such as Becky James from Abergavenny. Becky made history last month as she became the first British cyclist to win four medals at a single World Championships.

In the arts Oscar winning actress Catherine Zeta Jones and film director Sara Sugarman demonstrate the achievements of Welsh women in front of and behind the camera.

Mali Jenkins founded the Parkinson’s Disease Society in 1969 now called Parkinson’s UK.

This is just a tiny sample of the successful and inspiring women Wales has produced. If you want to share your own thoughts on inspirational Welsh women, please let us know by emailing Wales.com or tweet us on Twitter using the hashtag #WOWWomen.

World Book Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 7 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Today (Thursday 7 March) is World Book Day, the biggest annual celebration of books and reading. People celebrate World Book Day in over one hundred countries around the globe.

The origins of the day we now celebrate in Wales came from Catalonia. On St George’s Day, loved ones received gifts of roses and books. This tradition started over ninety years ago.

Welsh Paralympian, Aled Sion Davies MBE, and Olympian swimmer Georgia Davies are the new faces of World Book Day 2013 in Wales. Georgia says reading is important, Aled enjoyed reading Welsh author Roald Dahl's books when he was a child.

Elwyn Jones, Chief Executive of the Welsh Books Council, said: “The main aim of World Book Day is to encourage people to explore the pleasure gained from books and reading by providing them with the opportunity to take part in various activities.”

Cardiff to host Volvo Ocean Race

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 7 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff unveiled as Host Port for Volvo Ocean Race 2017-18

Cardiff will host a stopover in the 13th edition of the Volvo Ocean Race in 2017-18 – a move that will see the world's premier round-the-world sailing race visit Wales for the first time ever and mark its return to the United Kingdom for the first time in over a decade.

In a break from the ongoing series of announcements for the 12th edition in 2014-15, the Race's Chief Operating Officer Tom Touber revealed the forward-looking agreement during a presentation at the Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay.

The Volvo Ocean Race, which began life in Portsmouth as the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973, moved its headquarters from England to its new home in Alicante, Spain in 2010. The last time the UK had a stopover was in 2005-06 in Portsmouth.

"It is fantastic to be able to announce that the Race will once again stop in UK waters, and a first visit to Cardiff is a very exciting move," said Race COO Touber.

"The competition to host the Volvo Ocean Race has never been more fierce, with over 80 ports involved in the process for the 12th and 13th editions. Cardiff made a particularly impressive bid to win one of the coveted European slots and with such outstanding facilities and great enthusiasm I'm convinced that we will have a stopover to remember."

Also in attendance at the announcement were Edwina Hart, Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science in the Welsh Government, Cardiff Council Leader Cllr Heather Joyce and Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Sports, Leisure and Culture Cllr Huw Thomas.

Welsh Government Business Minister, Edwina Hart, welcomed the news and said:

“The Volvo Ocean Race is a truly global event and its arrival in Cardiff in a few years’ time will mark another historic milestone in Wales’ rise as an outstanding destination for world class events. The Welsh Government is fully committed to attracting more major international sporting event to Wales.

"Hosting a stopover in the Volvo Ocean Race will generate a substantial economic boost for the Cardiff and Wales economy. We look forward to welcoming thousands of new visitors to Wales, who will experience a vibrant capital city and a nation with a rich and diverse cultural heritage.

“We look forward to working with the Volvo Ocean Race and its partners, along with Cardiff Council and Cardiff Harbour Authority to deliver a world-class event.”

Cllr Joyce said:

“This will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city, and be hugely beneficial to the local economy.

“Being awarded the successful bid for one of the most important sailing events in the world once again demonstrates Cardiff’s ability to deliver major international sporting events on the world stage. It proves our reputation as an event city as well as providing an opportunity for many non sailors to try the sport through a co-ordinated programme of sailing activities before, during and following the event.”

Associated British Ports worked alongside the Council and the Harbour Authority to deliver the bid for this international event, and will be extremely proud to host the Volvo Ocean Race 2017/18 in Cardiff.

While this will be the first British stopover in some time, the Volvo Ocean Race has retained strong links with its former home.

The One Design Volvo Ocean 65 racing yachts that will be used in the 2014-15 and 2017-18 editions are all being built by a consortium led by the Green Marine boatyard near Southampton, on England's south coast. The other three participating yards are Persico in Italy, Decision in Switzerland and Multiplast in France.

So far, eight ports have been unveiled on the route for the 12th edition of the Volvo Ocean Race in 2014-15. They are Alicante (Spain), Recife (Brazil), Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates), Auckland (New Zealand), Itajaí (Brazil), Newport, Rhode Island (United States), Lisbon (Portugal) and Gothenburg (Sweden), where the race will finish.

Race organisers will announce the remaining ports for the 2014-15 Race over the coming weeks.

Welsh food at Tokyo exhibition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 4 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh food industry centre stage at Tokyo exhibition

Representatives from the Welsh food industry will travel to Japan this week to promote the export of Welsh food products and attract Japanese investment into Wales.

Foodex 2013, a food and drink exhibition running from 5th to 8th March in Tokyo, is expecting to attract more than 23,000 exhibitors from over 70 countries along with 75,000 visitors.

The Welsh Government-hosted stand will showcase first-rate Welsh food and drink products, and will promote Wales' propositions for inward investment through various events.

These will include a workshop providing advice to companies on issues such as EU food manufacturing regulations and entering UK retail chains.

With a wealth of quality natural produce, a skilled workforce, and a history of manufacturing first-class food and drink products, Wales is well placed to benefit from Japan's increasing investment in overseas food and drinks sectors.

During the visit a business reception will also be held enabling over 50 Japanese food companies to network with the Welsh delegation, and meetings will be organised so that Welsh companies can meet new and existing Japanese clients.

The presence at the food exhibition is part of a wider Welsh Government effort to promote Welsh products and to raise Wales' profile as a great place to do business, visit and study.

Spring has sprung!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

After a cold and particularly wet winter, spring is finally here.

We love this time of year, and not just because on 1 March we celebrate St David’s Day, our National Day.

Spring is a beautiful time of year in Wales with the countryside and gardens springing back into life.

It’s also when many of our winter sporting competitions reach their climax.

We’ve created a section about spring – March to May, to give you a flavour of what Wales is like during this season.

First Minister’s St David’s Day Message

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has today (1st March) sent a St David’s Day message greeting to everyone who is celebrating the national day of Wales.

Welsh Dragon roars in China

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh culture will take centre stage in China over St.David’s Day as the Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage, Huw Lewis starts a six day visit to the country.

During his visit – which will take in Beijing and Chongqing - the Minister will officially open the Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales: Wales, Land of the Red Dragon exhibition in the China Three Gorges Museum in Chongqing.

The four month exhibition, which will tell the story of Wales from the age of Roman occupation through to its part in the evolution of the modern world, will mark the start of Wales Week in Chongqing.

Speaking before he left for China the Minister said:

“Our extensive and active relationship with Chongqing is very much valued within Wales, and this exciting exhibition is the latest chapter in that story."
" It will form one part of a week of events celebrating what Wales has to offer – not just our ancient culture but also a modern, dynamic nation. Culture helps break down barriers and develop mutual understanding between nations.

“ Our relationship with China will be important to the future of Wales and I’m delighted to be visiting the country in order to build on our business, cultural and education links.

“ Only by promoting ourselves abroad can we look for opportunities to grow our economy and academic sector and this visit will build on the relationships already developed with Chongqing and Beijing and reinforce our commitments to these links.”

In addition to officially opening the exhibition at the Three Gorges Museum the Minister will be meeting the Mayor of Beijing to reinforce the Government-to-Government relationships that have already been established between both countries.

The Minister will host a St David’s Day reception in Beijing for business, cultural and educational contacts, as well as members of the Beijing St David’s Society.
During his visit to China the Minister will also take in a visit to a social housing project in Chongqing. The Min Xin Jia Yuan complex is considered the city’s flagship development, providing affordable rental housing for poorer residents moving into the city from the outlying countryside districts.

The Minister’s visit to China will also coincide with a multi-sector trade mission to China that will include 11 companies from Wales.

The Wales, Land of the Red Dragon exhibition is part of the relationship between Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales and the China Three Gorges Museum which was initiated by an agreement signed by both museums in 2008.

Chelsea challenge

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The National Botanic Garden of Wales is making its debut at the world’s greatest flower show in 2013.

It is designed by Maggie Hughes and Kati Crome in conjunction with the National Botanic Garden and sponsorship partners include Penn Pharma, South West Wales Tourism Partnership and Growing the Future.

The Director of the National Botanic Garden Dr Rosie Plummer said:

“We couldn’t have chosen a better year to make our debut at Chelsea. We are delighted to be working with Maggie and Kati, both talented designers who have a fabulous track record for creating unforgettable award-winning Chelsea gardens

St David's Day Messages from the USA

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

St David's Day messages were sent from the USA.

Read the messages from John Kerry, Secretary of State and Ambassador Susman, U.S. Ambassador to the Court of St. James.

St David’s Day tomorrow

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow is our National Day, St David’s Day.

If you are on Twitter, why not tweet about what you are doing to celebrate, whether you in Wales or elsewhere in the World.

Use the hashtag #stdavidsday and follow us on Twitter. We will be retweeting throughout the day.

St David’s Day Greetings

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Why not send an e-card to your friends and family across the globe and share the celebrations on Wales’ national day?

Have a look at our Interactive Rooms and find out a bit about Wales that you may not know. Just click on the link to send.

Happy St David’s Day.

Don’t forget to use the hashtag #stdavidsday when tweeting about the day on Twitter.

Wales’ TV & film industry to star in Hollywood

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As Hollywood gets ready to honour Richard Burton on St David’s Day, Business Minister, Edwina Hart is on a mission to ensure Wales is placed firmly on the map as a destination for high-end television drama production.

Mrs Hart will be representing the Welsh Government at the ceremony to mark the placing of the actor’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Following that event she will be meeting film and television producers in Los Angeles to tell them why they should come to work in Wales.

In April the UK government will introduce new tax breaks for high-value television production and Wales is already well placed to take advantage of this.

Mrs Hart said:

"Richard Burton is part of a proud history of the Welsh in Hollywood. He has inspired a new generation of actors, performers and filmmakers from Wales, who are now benefiting from our world class infrastructure and government support.

"Wales is already a destination for Hollywood film-makers, and with the BBC drama village in Cardiff, the only one of its kind in the UK, we are well placed as a destination for high-end television drama production.

"The industry in the USA may already be aware of the new tax incentives being introduced in the UK for high-end television production. But Wales can also offer production funding, a highly experienced, talented workforce delivering award-winning productions and quality infrastructure. I believe this makes us the best place in the UK to produce high-end television drama."

In recent years Wales has seen a renaissance of TV Drama with series like Dr. Who, Torchwood, Sherlock and Being Human produced here.

Starz TV is currently filming Da Vinci’s Demons in Wales. Producers of that show said they chose Wales because it’s cheaper than London, the Welsh crew are fantastically hard working, and there is ample production space.

Mrs Hart said:

"We have the infrastructure to support production here. As well as the BBC studios in Cardiff and a variety of stunning natural locations, facilities range from the 50,000 sq ft Dragon International Studios, used for productions such as Ironclad and Merlin, to converted industrial spaces that abound in south Wales.

"And as a devolved government in a small nation we can work closely with producers to offer support, advice and expertise."

The tax relief on high-end television drama, which starts in April, is worth 25% of qualifying UK expenditure capped at 80% of total budget, i.e. a net value of 20%.

The new tax reliefs will be based on a similar model to the existing Film Tax Relief. Since its introduction in January 2007, the Film Tax Relief has supported £5.5 billion of investment into 825 British films which have received approximately £800 million in relief. It's estimated that the new relief for high-end television drama could result in approximately £350m per year of additional investment in UK television drama production, boosting the UK economy by around £1bn.

The Welsh Government can also offer financial support to production projects choosing to film in Wales.

The creative industry sector in Wales, which currently employs over 26,000 people, is one of the key sectors for growth identified by the Welsh Government. It stretches across a number of industries including film, music, TV, and digital and entertainment media.

Overall employment in the creative industries during the period 2009-2011 increased by 16.5 per cent in Wales. This is the largest percentage increase of all the priority sectors identified by Welsh Government, confirming the Creative Industries as a growth sector in Wales.

Mrs Hart added:

"Attracting more high-end television drama productions to Wales will be key to helping the creative industries grow and build on the good progress already made. I hope to build on the awareness of Welsh talent in the industry when I meet with television executives in Los Angeles."

Happy St David’s Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Friday is our National Day, St David’s Day.

Happy St David’s Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Every 1 March we celebrate our patron saint, St David, who died on this day in 589AD.

We’ll be celebrating here in Wales, across the UK and all across the world.

On our St David’s day pages, you will find lots of fun things to do, including activities for children and some delicious Welsh recipes.

Whatever you are doing on Friday, we hope you have a very Happy St David’s Day.

Why not Tweet about what you are doing to celebrate, using the hashtag #stdavidsday and see if we can get St David’s Day trending.

Wales celebrates sporting successes

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It was a fantastic weekend for Wales with success in a host of sporting events.

Becky James, from Abergavenny, made history as she became the first British cyclist to win four medals at a single World Championships. Becky won the women’s sprint and the keiren event, whilst picking up bronze medals in the team sprint and 500m time trial.

Wales are still in the RBS Six Nations title hunt as they followed up their victory against France with a convincing win against Italy in Rome. Tries by Jonathan Davies and Alex Cuthbert, with exceptional goal kicking by Lee Halfpenny, secured the win.

Swansea City lifted their first piece of major sliver wear by beating Bradford 5-0 at Wembley Stadium to win the Capital One Cup. Nathan Dyer and Jonathan de Guzman picked up two goals apiece, while a solitary goal from the Spaniard, Michu, completed the win.

Wrexham secured their first appearance at Wembley with a semi final victory over Gainsborough as they compete in the FA Trophy Final later this season. Wrexham, along with Newport County also remain in contention for promotion to the nPower Football League. Cardiff City, meanwhile, increased their lead at the top of the Championship with victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Cardiff will be hoping to join Swansea by achieving promotion to the Barclay's Premier League.

Swans ready for League Cup final

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This Sunday Swansea City FC takes on Bradford City at Wembley Stadium in the League Cup final.

It will be the first time the Swans have contested a final for one of football's major trophies.

Sunday is arguably the biggest day in the club’s history. If Swansea win it will be the first time a Welsh club represent England and Wales in the UEFA Europa League.

The premier club’s location has proven popular with visiting fans. Many come to watch the football and discover the stunning coastline that Swansea and the Gower has to offer.

Swansea University has seen a rise in popularity, and some of this is down to the success of the football club.

Welsh talent at the Oscars

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This Sunday (24 February), it is the Academy Awards ceremony - or “The Oscars” as we know them.

We look forward to seeing some of our talented Welsh stars appearing. Both Catherine Zeta Jones and Dame Shirley Bassey are set to perform. Rumour has it that Sir Tom Jones may also be singing.

Catherine Zeta Jones will appear in a Chicago Oscars tribute. Catherine won the Best Supporting Actress award in 2002 for her role as Velma Kelly.

To mark 50 years of Bond, Dame Shirley Bassey will perform a medley 007’s iconic theme tunes. Sir Tom Jones sang the theme tune Thunderball and we’ve heard he may perform too.

Oscar wins from Wales over the years including Christian Bale 2011 Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Fighter and Sir Anthony Hopkins 1991 Best Actor for The Silence of the Lambs.

Ray Milland was Best Actor in 1945. Best Supporting actor went to Edmund Gwynn in 1947 and Hugh Griffith in 1959. The 1941 film How Green Was My Valley, directed by John Ford won five Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Picture.

We’ve also had three nominations for the Best Foreign Language Film: Hedd Wyn in 1992, Solomon & Gaenor in 2000 and Patagonia, directed by Mark Evans, in 2010.

A short documentary, Dylan Thomas, about the famous Welsh poet won the 1963 Academy Award for Best Documentary Short. Welsh actor Richard Burton was the narration. Richard Burton was nominated seven times for an Oscar, but never won.

Costume designer, Lindy Hemming, won the Academy Award for Costume Design for Topsy-Turvy (1999). Animations, produced by Welsh television producers S4C have included two Oscar nominations for Famous Fred and The Canterbury Tales.

The nominees for Best Visual Effects include Snow White and the Huntsman – worth a watch just to see the stunning Welsh beach where it was filmed.

Welsh International dark sky reserve

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The night sky above the Brecon Beacons National Park has been granted special protection. It has become Wales' first and one of only five destinations in the world to be granted the status of an international dark sky reserve. It is only the second location in the UK to receive this status.

What an added bonus for students of Astronomy at Cardiff and Aberystwyth Universities to have one of the world's five international dark sky reserves here in Wales. Find out more from the Brecon Beacons National Park website.

The Brecon Beacons National Park is one of three national parks in Wales, the others being Pembrokeshire National Park and Snowdonia National Park.

Restoration of Cardigan Castle

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Major restoration work is beginning at Cardigan Castle. The castle should be open to the public in 2014, when the work is completed.

The work includes restoration to the castle walls and gardens. There will be a heritage centre and open air concert area, as well as a restaurant and luxury accommodation for hire. The restoration is something that has Prince Charles' backing.

The castle has a rich history – it was the first stone castle built by the Welsh princes. Cardigan Castle was the setting for the very first eisteddfod in 1176. The eisteddfod continues to be enjoyed by visitors worldwide today.

Restoration of Cardigan Castle

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Other castles include Cardiff Castle and Caerphilly Castle in south east Wales, Harlech Castle in mid Wales and Penrhyn Castle in North Wales. Find out more on our castles page.

Did you know there are over 400 castles in Wales –we have more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world.

Welsh expertise on show in Barcelona

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh expertise on show at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona

Welsh expertise in mobile technology will be centre stage at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona next week.

The Welsh Government is hosting a stand at this annual event – one of the largest global events for the sector that attracts delegates from more than 205 countries worldwide, including 67,000 attendees, 1,500 exhibitors and more than 12,000 mobile app developers.

Wales based businesses and organisations attending the event (February 25 - 28) with support from the Welsh Government represent different sub sectors ranging from mobile app and software development to digital marketing and data analytics.

Business Minister Edwina Hart said:

“Welsh Government support is designed to help and encourage companies to internationalise and take advantage of opportunities in overseas markets.

“Our presence at the Mobile World Congress will also be used to promote Wales as a first class business location with the aim of attracting high value-added businesses to the sector in Wales.”

Participants at the Congress include: Centre of Excellence in Mobile Applications and Services (CEMAS), Keima Wireless, Living Data, M7 Managed Services and Sequence.

CEMAS, established at the University of Glamorgan and part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, is launching a Spanish language app that they have developed in partnership with Welsh SME DX Languages.

Dr Simon Chapman, Managing Director of Keima Wireless is addressing a session at Congress looking at Radio Spectrum, which is essential for future Mobile services. Dr Chapman, along with other guest speakers will look at some of the challenges related to Radio Spectrum, radio planning, RAN implementation and radio frequency network design.

Living Data is in the final stages of agreeing a design of what looks set to be a groundbreaking new town-led and town-owned free public wifi network, website and mobile app for the picturesque town of Tenby. It will be underpinned by a training programme to be led by Pembrokeshire College.

At last year’s event M7 secured a contract to provide the IT infrastructure and support services for one of the largest UK telecoms’ roll-outs in 2012, in partnership with a global independent software vendor (ISV).

At the Congress Managing Director Neil Cornish will showcase M7’s partner services that provide hosted and customer-owned solutions to the telecommunications sector.

Cardiff based digital agency Sequence is currently working on the British and Irish Lions App due to be completed next month which is designed for use on Windows 8, iPad, iPhone, Android tablet and phones.

Sequence won the Microsoft Worldwide Partner 2012 award (Mobility Business-to-Consumer Application category) and has a number of high profile clients. It designed the website for Storm Models whose clients include models like Kate Moss and Cindy Crawford and created apps for numerous clients including a mobile app for Addison Lee, London’s largest minicab company.

Keima and Living Data will also be attending the St David's Day reception hosted by First Minister Carwyn Jones in Barcelona.

Wales and Japan Cultural Exchange

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The mesmerising Yamato drummers from Japan are in Wales this week. They will be performing their new show ‘The Beat on the Road' at St David's Hall in Cardiff on 15 February.

The Japanese Taiko drumming company have been touring the world for 20 years and over a million people have seen their hi-energy, explosive shows.

St David’s Hall is one of the many music and theatre venues in Wales.

Later this Spring it will be the turn of Wales to perform to a Japanese audience when the National Theatre Wales will give its first international performance in Japan. The Opportunity of Efficiency, written by Alan Harris and directed by NTW artistic director, John McGrath will be performed in Japanese at the New National Theatre in Tokyo in April.

Swansea’s new international research stars

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Eighteen researchers with global reputations are being appointed as Distinguished Research Professors at Swansea University.

The appointments are spread across all six academic Colleges and will further strengthen the University’s reputation for research excellence as it seeks to fulfil its ambition of becoming one of the world’s top 200 universities by 2020. These new arrangements build upon the success of a number of joint appointments with overseas universities in the areas of Mathematics, Law and Entrepreneurship.

The eighteen academics in question have been recruited from across the globe, including the USA, Far East and Europe. They are based at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world. They will spend a proportion of their time working with colleagues in Swansea to build and to strengthen global research collaborations and to enhance the vitality and sustainability of our research environment.

The academics coming to share their expertise with Swansea include the distinguished English scholar Maud Ellman, currently a Professor at the University of Chicago, psychologist Perrine Ruby, a researcher at the Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre in France and lawyer Joel Trachtman, from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in the US. There are also appointments to the College of Engineering, including Andrew Barron, currently Chair of Chemistry at Rice University, Texas, three appointments in the College of Medicine and three in Science.

Professor Noel Thompson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, said:

“These academics are real international stars and we are delighted that they want to come to Swansea University and work with our research communities. These appointments demonstrate our commitment to research excellence and our global ambition.”

Professor Andrew Barron, Chair of Chemistry and Professor of Materials Science at Rice University in Texas, said:

"I am excited to be associated with the College of Engineering at Swansea University especially in this time of expansion and change. The new Engineering and Innovation campus and the creation of the Energy Safety Research Institute are in my opinion the biggest moves forward for any University in the UK, if not the world.

"Being part of an institution that is not just growing in size but evolving to meet the needs of education in the 21st Century is an adventure that faculty seldom get to experience. It should be fun."

Professor Perrine Ruby is a researcher at the Lyon Neuroscience Research Center in France. She said:

"I research two areas, what happens in the brain when we engage with others socially, and what happens in the brain when we dream or recall dreams. I am thus excited about being able to work with the team at the Swansea University Sleep Laboratory so as to work on the relationship between sleep, dreaming and natural waking life autobiographical experiences, with the aim of discovering what functions sleep, or dreaming, may have.

"Our collaboration will be a unique opportunity to combine psychological and neuroimaging methods to progress in dream research."

Professor Joel P Trachtman is an expert in international law from Tufts University in Massachusetts. He said:

"I look forward to the opportunity to work with the excellent students and scholars of Swansea Law School. My research on international trade law will fit well with the Law School’s Institute of International Shipping and Trade Law, and I look forward very much to working with the innovative and engaged scholars of Swansea including (but not limited to!) Arwel Davies, John Linarelli, Dennis Patterson, Volker Roeben, and Jukka Snell."

Welsh Government San Francisco base

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones has confirmed the establishment of a permanent Welsh Government representative at the British Consulate in San Francisco during his trade mission to the US West Coast.

The First Minister visited the Consulate (11.00 am West Coast time, Tues 12th Feb) to announce that a Welsh Government member of staff will be based in the building and will work closely with the UK Trade & Invest team in the city with the aim of attracting trade and investment to Wales. The move expands Wales’ representation in the United States, including in New York and Washington D.C.

The latest figures show Wales’ trade with the United States is growing and stood at £3.3 billion in 2012. 18 Welsh companies from a number of sectors are accompanying the First Minister on the trade mission to build on this momentum.

First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

“San Francisco has one of the world’s most famous sites with the Golden Gate Bridge and our presence here in the city can be described as Wales’ bridge to the vast West Coast economy.

“The Consulate provides us with the perfect base to promote what Wales can offer to businesses and potential investors. It is the duty of the Welsh Government to do all it can to attract high quality investment and to achieve this we need to be visible in markets such as the West Coast.

“We have a simple message – Wales is open for business is an excellent environment to locate and is welcoming to companies.”

The creation of a new Welsh Government presence in San Francisco comes after the First Minister held talks on potential economic links with the Mayor of San Francisco Edwin Lee and the Governor’s Office.

London 2012 Sporting Legacy Boost

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Sport Wales Announce London 2012 Sporting Legacy Boost

Sport Wales have today (12th February 2013) revealed that sport in Wales has witnessed a boost in participation since the curtain came down on Wales' most successful Olympic Games for 100 years.

Six months on from the London 2012 Olympic closing ceremony and statistics are revealing that a number of sports in Wales have seen a major increase in participation numbers.

Debbie Austin, Sport Wales Manager charged with supporting and challenging Wales' governing bodies, said:

"We're now almost 500 days out from the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, another pivotal opportunity for us to be harnessing the inevitable interest that will come through the increased profile of sport; let's ensure that as a sector we're maximising on its potential."

Welsh trade mission heads to San Francisco

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The West Coast of the United States is the focus of the Welsh Government’s latest trade mission when First Minister Carwyn Jones arrives in San Francisco with a group of leading Welsh businesses today.

The First Minister will be leading a delegation of 18 Welsh companies from a number of sectors including life sciences, ICT, and the creative industries to promote trade and potential inward investment in Wales. Silicon Valley is a renowned hub for the incubation and development of emerging technologies. With a GDP of $487 billion (2009), the bay area ranks 22nd in the world when compared to national economies and is at the cutting edge of global technology.

The First Minister will meet with business, political and academic leaders in San Francisco and Silicon Valley to highlight Wales’ long culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, collaboration and opportunities for transatlantic success.

Among the companies joining the First Minister will be Rantmedia, Simbec Research, BSP Technology, Licentia Group, Caerbont Automotive, City School of Languages, SEASUK, Kaimai Research and GL Jones Playgrounds.

Today (Mon 11th Feb) the First Minister will meet the Mayor of San Francisco Edwin Lee and hold talks with the economic development officials from the Governor’s Office. Over the four day trade mission, the First Minister will also be holding talks with the high-profile and very significant California based technology companies and institutions, including the Silicon Valley Bank. The British Consul General in San Francisco will give the First Minister a briefing on the trade opportunities in the area, as will the Jaclyn Mason, head of UK Trade & Invest in the city.

The First Minister said:

"The United States remains the world’s premier economic power and engaging with businesses there is essential for Wales. That is why I am in San Francisco to lead a Welsh Government trade mission with a focus on innovation. The city and wider area enjoys world-class status, with thriving business and academic communities.

"This is an opportunity to learn from this vibrant market and to seek out opportunities for Wales and Welsh companies. It is vitally important in my role as First Minister that I seek to build relationships that will open doors for Welsh business.

"A number of Welsh businesses are here with me for this unique opportunity to explore the potential for Welsh businesses to tap into this market and explore investment opportunities. As well as a series of business events I will be holding talks with the Mayor of San Francisco. International trade is vitally important for the Welsh economy and Welsh Government overseas missions are tailored to help businesses make the most of the all the opportunities presented."

One of the companies joining the First Minister will be Cardiff based Rantmedia, one of Wales’ foremost apps agency. The company is riding high and reaping the benefits of having its latest app selected, highlighted and featured internationally by Apple.

MD Anton Faulconbridge said he couldn’t have asked for a better endorsement which not only increased sales, resulting in a ‘huge‘ number of downloads recorded, but it raised the profile of Rantmedia globally.

Apple, who are based in San Francisco, has a review team that selects the most noteworthy apps from around the world that it will feature in any given week – some are featured in local market places such as the UK and some are featured internationally. Apple featured Rantmedia’s Vectrex Regeneration app internationally for more than two weeks - a tremendous boost for the company.

Anton now intends to build on this exposure whilst in San Francisco with the First Minister. Anton Faulconbridge said the US is their biggest target market and they have a number of clients based in the States. He said:

"Rantmedia’s profile was raised considerably by being featured by Apple. It’s an accolade that every app agency in the world is striving for – and fortunately this was followed by highly complimentary online coverage featured in around 300 news outlets around the world.

"We aim to make the most of this publicity and build on our high profile during our visit to San Francisco where we have a number of interviews lined up with technology news outlets, gaming press and bloggers.

"These trade missions provide incredible value and are extremely important for business. They enable us to build stronger relationships with key individuals and organisations – which is far easier to do face-to-face than over the phone or by email. Having Welsh Government backing also helps as it underscores our credentials and opens opportunities we wouldn’t otherwise have."

100 Year Anniversary of Polar Expedition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It is also the place where many dramas are made, including the popular sci fi show Doctor Who, at the Roath Lock Studios in Porth Teigr. People from as far away as the USA and Australia visit the Doctor Who Experience. The studios and the Doctor Who Experience are the first elements of Porth Teigr. The area is being developed and will include creative, commercial, residential and leisure uses.

In Cardiff, there are many memorials to Captain Scott. One can be found close to the Norwegian Church Arts Centre in the bay. The church itself dates back to the days when there was an extensive Norwegian merchant fleet visiting Cardiff. It was a place of worship for one of Cardiff’s famous sons – author Roald Dahl.

100 Year Anniversary of Polar Expedition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff Docks was a busy shipping port, transporting iron and coal from the south Wales valleys across the world. Cardiff became a cosmopolitan city and remains so today. The first mosque in the UK was in Cardiff.

By the 1880s there was more coal handled in Cardiff Docks, or ‘Tiger Bay’, as it was known by locals, than any other port in the world. The world’s first £1 million pound deal was signed at the Coal Exchange building.

Following a period of decline after World War II, the area was redeveloped as Cardiff Bay. Today it is once again a vibrant place to work, live and do business, with a 5 star hotel and an international arts and entertainment centre. The Bay continues to develop, with more planned for the future.

Within easy reach of transport links and Cardiff city centre, the Bay is home to the Senedd, where the National Assembly meet and debate.

100 Year Anniversary of Polar Expedition

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

100 years today (Sunday 10 February 2013) news reached London of the failure of Captain Scott’s Polar Expedition.

There was much interest in the expedition in Wales, as Welsh people had raised funds and the Terra Nova ship had set out from what was then Cardiff Docks.

Chinese New Year celebrations in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 8 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Wales celebrated Chinese New Year at the Senedd last night, where the First Minister and His Excellency Liu Xiaoming welcomed around 200 guests from both China and Wales.

The evening started with a Chinese Lion Dance and pupils from Lansdowne Primary School in Cardiff performed a traditional Bamboo dance. The Ambassador gave a very complementary speech about Wales and all enjoyed the evening.

Other celebrations in Wales include the Swansea University Chinese Society Chinese New Year Show tonight.

The Chinese New Year begins on Sunday 10 February. Happy New Year to everyone who is celebrating.

For more about Wales and China, see our China pages.

Trade links focus of Wales – China talks

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 7 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Wales’ trade and business links with China will be the focus of talks between the First Minister Carwyn Jones and the Chinese Ambassador to the UK, who is visiting Cardiff today (Thurs 7th Feb).

His Excellency Liu Xiaoming will be welcomed to the Welsh capital by the First Minister, the third time the pair have met in the city. The latest figures show Wales’ trade with China was worth £168 million in 2012. The Welsh Government has agreements with the Municipal Governments of Beijing and Chongqing and there are a wide range of links across energy, life sciences, health and culture. The Welsh Government promotes Wales as a place to invest through its offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Chongqing.

Education links are going from strength to strength, with the number of Chinese students studying in Wales increasing by 125 per cent between 2007/8 and 2011/12, and currently stands at 4400 students.

Confucius Institutes, which promote Chinese language and culture, now has ten Confucius Classrooms across Wales who are helping to develop over 350 Chinese Language and Culture courses among school children of all ages across Wales.

In the evening the First Minister and the Ambassador will attend a special event in the Senedd to celebrate Chinese New Year. Guests will include members of the local Chinese community, business and academia who will be entertained by a traditional Chinese Lion Dance. A group of children from Lansdowne Primary School, which has links with a school in Chongqing, will perform a Chinese Bamboo Dance.

The First Minister said:

“It gives me great pleasure to welcome the Ambassador to Wales once again. It is an opportunity for us to discuss our growing links and areas of mutual interest, but also a time to celebrate Chinese New Year and to welcome in the Year of the Snake.

“I understand that traditionally, people from China view the Year of the Snake as a year that symbolises a focus on ‘steady progress and attention to detail’. This suitably describes the approach of Wales’ relationship with China, with an established, yet growing variety of collaborative partnerships in many different areas including the arts, culture and business.

“Despite the huge differences in size, culture, language and custom, it is incredible just how strong the links are between Wales and China. I hope that the Year of the Snake will bring prosperity and harmony between our two nations.

“The Confucius Institutes are just one example of those links. We have three in Wales based at Cardiff, Lampeter and Bangor Universities. That is a higher proportion than any other part of the UK.”

6 Nations Rugby

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow (Saturday 2 February) sees the start of the 6 Nations Rugby, with Wales v Ireland at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.

The 6 Nations will take place over most weekends until 16 March. Even when there’s not a match in Wales, there will be plenty of places to watch it, with a great atmosphere in pubs.

Will it be a Grand Slam for Wales and who will get the Wooden Spoon?

The Under 20s rugby begins today, with 3 matches, including in Eirias Park, Wrexham tonight.

Wales Coast Path - millions for the Welsh economy

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Within the first few months of being open the Wales Coast Path had already provided more than a £16 million boost to the Welsh economy and attracted 2.89 million visits, according to new research by the Wales Economic Research Unit.

The Wales Coast Path formally opened in May 2012 but the research looked at use of the Wales Coast Path between September 2011- when many of the main routes were already open - and August 2012.

The research indicates that 2.89 million people used the Wales Coast Path over the period and estimates that the path attracted 1.6 million day visitors and 835,000 overnight stays.

Environment Minister, John Griffiths has welcomed the report. He said:
“The opening of the Wales Coast Path last May was a really big moment for Wales as we became the first country in the world to have a continuous path along our coastline.

“This report shows that even before the path was formally open it was attracting many thousands of visitors and providing a real economic boost to coastal towns in Wales.

“The research also indicates that the path resulted in an additional £32.2m worth of demand in the Welsh economy between September 2011 and August 2012 which equates to an impressive £16.1 million of Gross Value Added (GVA).

“And as the benefits are shared between of range of sectors such as retail, manufacturing, hospitality and transport we know that it is not just traditional tourism businesses that are benefitting from this excellent resource.

“I am confident that the path will continue to attract a high number of visitors to our coast and will provide this much needed economic boost for many years to come.

“I am therefore pleased to announce that the Welsh Government will continue to invest in a programme of Coastal Access improvements over the next two years as part of our work ensure the best possible experience for visitors to our coast path.

“As we continue with this work I would urge coastal local authorities and landowners to continue to support us in our efforts to spread these benefits right around the Welsh coast and ensure the very best outcome for Welsh communities and businesses.”

The Welsh Government is investing £1.15million in 2013/14 to ensure the Wales Coast Path is of consistently high quality. This builds on Welsh Government investment of up to £2 million a year between 2007 and 2013 which resulted in the opening of the 870 mile path that runs right around the Welsh coast line. Welsh Government investment was supplemented by £3.9 million from the European Regional Development Fund between 2009 and 2013.

Happy Australia Day!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We wonder how many people celebrating Australia Day will know that not only was their Prime Minister Julia Gillard born in Wales, but Billy Hughes also had Welsh parents.

William Morris Hughes, known as Billy Hughes was Australia’s 7th Prime Minister and longest serving member of the Australian Parliament.

Other Australians with Wales in their ancestry include Kylie and Danni Minogue, Naomi Watts and Olivia Newton John.

If you want to trace your Welsh ancestors, our ancestry page offers some helpful links.

Happy Australia Day.

St Dwynwen's Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

25 January is St Dwynwen’s Day. St Dwynwen is the Welsh patron saint of lovers.

The story of Dwynwen dates back to the 5th century, read more about it on our winter pages.

There are many ways to celebrate the day, why not enjoy a meal with a loved one in one of our many restaurants? Alternatively, plan a romantic meal using Welsh recipes. Lovespoons are a traditional Welsh gift that will delight a loved one.

With St Dwywen's day falling on Friday this year it is an ideal excuse for a romantic weekend away. Or perhaps enjoy reading some of our romantic myths and legends from Wales?

There are events to mark this day, with creative children's activities at the National Wool Museum on 26 January and a romantic day is planned at Swansea’s National Waterfront museum including storytelling and music, again on 26 January.

Maybe you could plan a romantic stroll on the Island of Llanddwyn, Anglesey this summer? The tidal island has views of Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula. Demi Moore filmed the romantic thriller Half Life on the island.

Bangor Uni student working with James Patte

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Bangor University student to work with world’s number one best-selling writer on next project

Ashwin Sanghi, a Bangor University PhD Creative Writing student- who is already a publishing phenomenon in his own right in his native India, is to co-author a novel with a writer currently described as the world’s most popular crime fiction writer: author James Patterson.

James Patterson has developed a highly popular series of novels in which he works with local authors to co-write the globally bestselling ‘Private’ series of crime novels. The premise of the series is centred around ‘Private’ a global detective agency with branches in the world’s major cities. By collaborating with popular authors from different countries and cultures, James Patterson is able to portray and reflect the real ‘feel’ of major cities, countries and cultures.

Bangor Uni student working with James Patte

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For ‘Private India’, Ashwin Sanghi’s publishers, Random House India and Cornerstone, a division of Random House UK, have announced a new collaboration between James Patterson and Ashwin Sanghi.

Susan Sandon, managing director for Cornerstone, Random House UK acquired the rights to publish Private India across the Random House Group territories. Teaming the world's biggest selling thriller writer with India's best-selling author of The Krishna Key and Chanakya’s Chant, Private India (working title) will be released in early 2014. It will combine the trademark suspense and fast-moving plots of Patterson's writing with the exhaustive research and gripping plots of Sanghi's thrillers. Publication of Private India will follow a year of major promotional activity for James Patterson in India, starting with the exclusive publication of a paperback format of Alex Cross, Run in February 2013, ahead of the hardback edition in the rest of the world.

James Patterson says: "Writing my Private series of books has given me the opportunity to work with local authors on thrillers set all over the world. With its vibrant and chaotic cities, and rich history and heritage there could be no better place to set Private's next adventure than India. And in Ashwin Sanghi, with his wide historical knowledge and his love of a fast-paced plot, there could be no better writing partner. I look forward to working with him to create a unique, Indian-based adventure."

Ashwin Sanghi says: "In the past three years, James Patterson has sold more books than any other author across the globe. It is my privilege and honour to be co-writing an India-specific thriller along with the master storyteller himself. I also see it as an opportunity for me to hone my skills in a slightly different but immensely exciting genre. I am quite certain that the fusion of ideas from East and West will result in a gripping and engaging read."

Dr Nathan Abrams, of Bangor University’s School of Creative Studies and Media and Ashwin Sanghi’s PhD supervisor commented: "I am delighted with this news. Ashwin continues to go from strength to strength, from a self-published and self-taught author to a collaboration with one of the world's best-selling and best-known authors. I look forward to the results with great anticipation."

Commenting further, Ashwin Sanghi said: “I set out to study for a PhD in Creative Writing and searched for a program that would allow me to pursue my other goals in life while offering me the opportunity to critically examine my work. I believe that the process of introspection initiated at Bangor has certainly helped me evolve as a writer. Bangor University was my preferred choice for study, primarily because of the flexibility of the program combined with high academic standards. I had expected to complete the program after writing my first novel, but it now seems that I shall end up completing it after my fifth!”

Glamorgan top in UK for Maths

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The University’s Mathematics department has been rated top in the UK for “Maths for Teaching Excellence” by the Sunday Times University Guide 2013.

Last year, the department was also acknowledged as “Best in Wales for Maths” by The Guardian’s League Table 2012.

It also attained top position for Maths in the UK in the National Student Survey 2012 with final year students praising its personal touch and describing the lecturers as supportive, caring and genuinely interested in their welfare and academic development. They describe the course as stimulating and challenging while the staff are enthusiastic.

Dr Stephanie Perkins, the course leader for undergraduate maths programmes at Glamorgan, said:

“We make a point of viewing our students as individuals with individual needs. We operate an open door policy and aim to ensure that students feel welcome to pop in to see us if they have a problem, either academically or personally. We have excellent graduate employability results which are a direct consequence of the modules offered that relate to careers in finance, technology and teaching.

“All of our staff are committed to having a first-rate course and an environment in which students can achieve their goals. We are absolutely delighted and very proud to be ranked so highly in the league tables.”

“Feedback from students highlights that they benefit from our small tutorial groups, year tutors and open-access work rooms which encourage peer-to-peer support among students from different years,” she said.

21-year-old Rosanna Ash, a final-year BSc (Hons) Mathematics student from Stourbridge, said:

“I don’t think I could have made a better choice. The lecturers are all friendly and helpful, they never say they’re too busy to help when you have a problem and the students all get on well with each other”.

“In busier universities, I feel I may have been overlooked, but at Glamorgan, I have been supported in every way possible and as a result I am doing really well both with my studies and in general.”

First Minister thanks US Ambassador

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The First Minister Carwyn Jones has thanked the US Ambassador to the UK for his friendship to Wales as he made a farewell visit to Cardiff.

Louis Susman, who is leaving his post after three years, held talks with the First Minister at his office in Cardiff Bay. He also attended a business lunch hosted by the First Minister which included representatives of US companies based in Wales.

The First Minister said:

"Our already strong relationship with the US has grown further over recent years and this is in no small part due to the work of Ambassador Susman. He has been a source of encouragement for Welsh businesses to explore opportunities in the US and has advocated Wales as an inward investment location for American firms.

"This visit is an opportunity to convey my personal thanks to the Ambassador for being such a good friend to Wales and to wish him every success in his future endeavours. I can assure him of a warm Welsh welcome whenever he wishes to return to Wales.

"The USA remains a key inward investor for Wales, as demonstrated by the range of companies who welcomed the Ambassador and we will continue to work tirelessly to attract further investment.

"The United States is a significant market for Welsh goods, with figures for 2011 showing our exports to the US totalled almost £3.4 billion. The Welsh Government wants to build on this and that is why I will be leading a trade mission to San Francisco and in March I will be heading to New York."

Wales is home to almost 300 companies from the US employing almost 52,000 people. Major players to have invested significantly in Wales include Ford, GE Aviation, GE Healthcare, General Dynamics, Raytheon, International Rectifier and Dow Corning, some of whom attended the event.

Global Game Jam at Glyndwr University

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

What are you doing this weekend? Students and lecturers at Glyndwr University in north east Wales are taking part in the Global Game Jam, sharing ideas and beginning projects with teams from 240+ countries worldwide.

Glyndwr University, which tailors its courses to be relevant to industry and professional applications, recognises how such events can benefit their students by learning new things and developing new ideas as well as making world-wide contacts in a fun and challenging way.

National Storytelling Week

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A celebration of Wales's oral traditions, held across 15 Cadw sites on 27 January. Come and discover more as part of National Storytelling Week

Wales is renowned worldwide for its literature and poetry, and this winter you will be able to experience the best of Welsh tale spinning. In conjunction with National Storytelling Week, Cadw invites you to join a storyteller at one of 15 sites across the country to celebrate Wales’s oral heritage.

Listen to stories based on historical characters, legends and myths from across Wales during National Storytelling Week this January. Join us for a Welsh-inspired story at one of our participating sites.

Drop in to listen to a story based on Welsh culture and heritage.

Welsh B&B Wins Best in World for Service

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The north west region of Wales has done very well in the 2013 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards, with a bed and breakfast establishment in Llandudno winning the best hotel in the world for service.

The awards are as voted for by TripAdvisor users, ordinary people who stay at the hotels and enjoy visiting places throughout the world. The four star rated Lauriston Court is a £35 a night 11 room guest house on the beautiful Llandudno sea front.
Guests at the Lauriston Court praise the friendly service, the delicious breakfasts and the stunning sea views.

Many of the guests return time and again and express gratitude for the owners’ efforts in helping them with parking, with heavy cases, even arranging for business papers to be shredded. Nothing is too much trouble. The hotel was also rated as 6th in the world's top 10 bargain hotels category.

Llandudno featured in the top ten destinations in the United Kingdom.

Last week of Turner Collection

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss out on seeing the Turner Collection. The J.M.W. Turner: The Davies Collection is exhibited at the National Museum of Wales until this Sunday (20 January 2013). The collection includes three new art works on display together for the first time. The three paintings have recently been confirmed as genuine Turner works after many years of doubt over their authenticity.

Did you know that the museum houses the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings outside Paris? There’s plenty of varying exhibitions at the museum throughout the year and at the other six National Museums in Wales.

There's still time to see the Animation exhibition at the National Museum in Cardiff and the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea until 17 March. At both museums there will be a variety of events, which explore the techniques that bring still images to life, will be on offer, including film screenings and hands-on events.

Happy New Year! Blywddyn Newydd Dda!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

No, we’re not behind the times. We’re wishing a Happy New Year to the people of the Gwaun Valley in south west Wales who are celebrating the New Year this weekend.

Unlike the majority of Welsh people who celebrate on 31 December/1 January with most of the world, this small community celebrate Hen Galan on Sunday.

… and it's not over yet, Chinese communities in Wales will celebrate New Year next month.

Honour for Hedd Wyn's nephew

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 8 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The custodian of a piece of Wales's literature and farming heritage has been awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours list. The British Honours system recognises people who make a significant contribution to Britain.

For more than 50 years Gerald Robert Williams has singlehandedly farmed Yr Ysgwrn, the family home of his uncle, poet Ellis Humphrey Evans, better known by his bardic name Hedd Wyn (meaning Blessed Peace).

Hedd Wyn was posthumously awarded the bard's chair at the 1917 National Eisteddfod after he was killed in the Battle of Passchendaele. His story was told in a film nominated in 1992 for an Academy Award as the Best Foreign Language Film.

Mr Williams welcomes thousands of people from across the world to Yr Ysgwrn having promised his grandmother "a long time ago" that he would keep the door open as a way of "paying respect for the bravery and success of my uncle".

The poet's bardic chair remains on display at Yr Ysgwrn, which sits in the dramatic Snowdonia landscape, the inspiration for so much of Hedd Wyn's poetry. The house, which is a Grade II* listed building, near Trawsfynydd, Gwynedd, north west Wales, is already a place of pilgrimage for visitors and was recently awarded lottery funding to help transform it into a museum. Yr Ysgwrn was purchased by the Snowdonia National Park Authority, for the nation in March 2012.

New Year’s Honours for Welsh Sportspeople

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 4 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It was good to see many Welsh sportsmen and women recognised in the New Year’s Honours list.

The New Year Honours are a part of the British honours system. The awards are presented by or in the name of the reigning monarch, currently Queen Elizabeth II or her vice-regal representative.

The honours system recognises people who have made great achievements in public life and people who’ve committed themselves to serving Britain. They will have made life better for other people or been outstanding at what they do. It is inevitable that after such a great year of British sport so many awards have gone to sportsmen and women.

The British Cycling coach of Dave Brailsford has been awarded a knighthood for services to Cycling and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In December 2012 Brailsford won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Coach Award for a second time, having previously won it in 2008. The British Cycling performance director and Team Sky principal, who grew up in Gwynedd, north west Wales, has coached many to success, including Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Geraint Thomas MBE, Jason Kenny, Victoria Pendleton, Mark Cavendish and Laura Trott.

There are MBEs for three of our Paralympians, Mark Colbourne, Aled Sion Davies and Josie Pearson and for Olympian Jade Jones.

This summer Josie Pearson, from Hay on Wye, set a new world record in the F51/52/53 Discus. Aled Sion Davies from Bridgend, south east Wales, won a bronze in the F42/F44 Shot put, followed by a gold medal and set a new European record in the F42/44 Discus.

Para-cyclist Mark Colbourne from Tredegar in south east Wales won three medals during the Paralympic games, a Silver in the men's Cycling Track, a Silver in the Men's Individual C1-2-3 1km Time Trial, and a Gold in the men's Individual Pursuit C1.

2012 was a great year for Jade Jones, who at the age of just 19 won a Gold medal in Taekwondo. Jade, who is from Flint in north east Wales won the first ever Gold medal in the sport for Team GB and was named Welsh sports personality of the year.

Also receiving the MBE is Anthony Hughes the National Performance Manager, Disability Sport Wales and Eleanor (known as Ellie) Simmonds, MBE, who trains in Swansea, has been awarded the OBE.

Former Wales winger JJ Williams was awarded the MBE. The former rugby player, known as the ‘Welsh Whippet’ won the award for services to Rugby and charitable services in Wales.

Robert Croft was awarded the MBE services to Cricket and Wendy Bartlett White for services to Netball in Wales was awarded the BEM.

Dyffryn House to open to public

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 4 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

From 1 January the National Trust has taken over responsibility for Dyffryn House and Gardens. The National Trust has leased the house and gardens for a 50 year period.

The Gardens are already a popular visitor attraction and from April the House will also open to the public. The key principal rooms of the Grade II listed building are currently being restored to their former glory by the charity.

The manor was built in 1893 by John Cory. John’s third son, Reginald, a distinguished amateur horticulturist and landscape architect Thomas Mawson, were largely responsible for creating the gardens.

The Grade I gardens, are situated about six miles from Cardiff, south east Wales, in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan countryside. The 55 acre gardens are an exceptional example of Edwardian garden design and are among some of the most beautiful gardens in Wales.

The gardens feature formal lawns and an extensive Arboretum with trees from all over the world. Dyffryn Gardens are already very popular to visitors and it is hoped that visitor numbers will now double.

Nos Galan Races

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 3 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There were lots of New Year celebrations throughout Wales, with many enjoying the Nos Galan Races.

The annual races take place on New Year’s Eve. Every year there is a mystery runner at the races and this year there were two - Dai Green, who was captain of the Athletics team at the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympian Sam Bowen, sitting volleyball player. The mystery runners lit the Nos Galan beacon and laid a wreath at the statue of 18th Century runner, Guto Nyth Brân.

This year record numbers attended the races, with people from across the UK and as far as the USA taking part in the 5km run, which has become a tradition in the Welsh calendar. Many thousands also came along to watch and take part in the Nos Galan Big Sing.

Find out about other Welsh traditions that take place during the winter.

Happy New Year and best wishes for 2013 to all our readers.

Roath Lock Studios in top ten list

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The BBC Roath Lock studios named in world’s top 10 top new buildings

Rowan Moore, architecture critic, compiled the list that featured in the Guardian newspaper. The list also includes the China Central Television headquarters in Beijing and the Olympic Park, London.

The Roath Lock studios opened in March this year and produce many TV series, including Doctor Who. The popular sci fi drama is also filmed on location in Wales.

Just a short walk from the Roath Lock studios is the Doctor Who Experience, where visitors can experience amazing special effects, see props from the popular show and even fly in the TARDIS!

The studios and the Doctor Who Experience are the first parts of the elements of Porth Teigr. The area is being developed and will include creative, commercial, residential and leisure uses.

Also this year the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama gained a RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) award for its outstanding architecture.

The college building was also awarded a BREEAM 'Excellent' standard, due to the building's inherent thermal mass. BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) is the leading and most widely used environmental assessment method for buildings. It sets the standard for best practice in sustainable design. The building houses the 200 seat Richard Burton Theatre and the timber-lined Dora Stoutzker Concert Hall.

In Wales buildings old and new stand side by side. We have ancient castles and listed buildings, as well as modern buildings.

Cardiff's City Hall stands in what has been acclaimed one of the finest civic centres in Europe. The buildings are mostly Edwardian and are in English Renaissance style carved from Portland stone.

In Cardiff Bay there are many modern buildings such as the Senedd, and the Wales Millennium Centre.

The Senedd building opened in 2006. The building won an award for its sustainability and green credentials.

The National Assembly for Wales meet at the Senedd building. Members of the public can visit the building too.

Near to the Senedd is the Wales Millennium Centre (WMC), locally known as the “armadillo”. The WMC is very popular with over a million people visiting in 2011. The centre hosts ballet, theatre, opera and dance, all under one roof. There are many free performances too.

These modern buildings sit alongside older buildings, such as the Grade I listed Pierhead building that was built in 1897. Initially used as the headquarters for the Bute Dock Company, the building is still in use today. It is open to the public as a Welsh history museum and exhibition.

There are many historic buildings throughout Wales, including the Grade I listed Tredegar House in Newport, South Wales, the 15th century Tudor Merchant's House, Tenby, West Wales and over 600 castles.

Merry Christmas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Nadolig Llawen (that’s Welsh for Merry Christmas) from Wales.com.

Find out a bit about what we do in Wales over Christmas and the New Year including some of our unique traditions.

Royal Patron of ‘Dylan Thomas 100’ announced

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Prince of Wales to be Royal Patron of ‘Dylan Thomas 100’ festival

The Prince of Wales visited Dylan Thomas’s birthplace in Swansea on Friday, as it was announced he would be Royal Patron of DT100, the centenary celebrations to commemorate the life and works of the famous Welsh poet and writer.

As his royal patronage of the DT100 Festival was announced, The Prince visited the house at 5 Cwmdonkin Drive in the Uplands area of Swansea, where Dylan Thomas was born in 1914. He was joined by the poet’s granddaughter Hannah Ellis, who is the Honourable Patron of the DT100 Festival, and Welsh Business and Tourism Minister Edwina Hart.

Overlooking Swansea Bay, the semi-detached house has been restored by its current owners to its Edwardian condition to reflect what it looked like when Dylan Thomas lived there. The Thomas family bought the house a few months before a baby Dylan was born in the front bedroom in October 1914.

The iconic address now offers holiday accommodation and is open for guided tours, offering a glimpse into an environment that contributed to inspire Dylan’s famous writings, such as ’A Child’s Christmas in Wales’. The house was recently recognised as The Best Tourist Attraction and the Best Visitor Experience at the Tourism Swansea Bay Awards.

A spokesperson from Clarence House said:

“The Prince of Wales is pleased to become Patron of the DT100 Festival, which will celebrate the Centenary of Dylan Thomas’ birth and bring the works of this wonderful writer to even more people.”

High-profile figures from Welsh public and cultural life have also agreed to endorse the DT100 Festival by becoming Patrons. They are:

• Opera star Bryn Terfel CBE;
• Composer Karl Jenkins CBE;
• Singer-songwriter Cerys Matthews;
• Former First Minister Rt Hon Rhodri Morgan; and
• Harpist Catrin Finch.

It is anticipated that other Patrons of DT100 will be announced in the run up to 2014.

Welcoming The Prince of Wales at Cwnmdonkin Drive, Welsh Business and Tourism Minister Edwina Hart said:

“We are very proud to have The Prince of Wales as Patron of the DT1000 Festival to help celebrate the life, works and legacy of one of Wales’ most famous and acclaimed poets and writers. This royal patronage is a recognition of Dylan Thomas’ influence as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.

“The support of The Prince, together with the other Patrons announced today, will help raise the profile of the DT100 events to be staged across Wales and beyond during 2014 to celebrate the contribution of this iconic literary figure. We hope the festival will further develop the legacy of Dylan’s work and attract new visitors from across the world to visit Wales to see the places that inspired his writings."

Hannah Ellis, Honourable Patron of DT100 and granddaughter of Dylan Thomas, said:

“It is a great honour for the DT 100 project, and for my family, to have HRH The Prince of Wales join us as Royal Patron. Today we see a number of leading Welsh figures state their support for our plans to celebrate the centenary of my grandfather's birth in two years’ time and this can only serve to raise the profile of the programme and contribute positively to its ultimate success."

Climate Change Partnership

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Welsh Government is embarking on a programme of work with Lesotho to help the country develop its own Climate Change strategy, Environment Minister, John Griffiths has announced.

Wales' Environment Minister met Lesotho's Minister of Energy, Meteorology and Water, Dr Timothy Thahane at the UN Climate Change Summit in Doha last week to discuss how the two countries could work together.

As part of that meeting the two ministers agreed a joint programme of work that would see Wales lending its technical expertise to support the development of Lesotho’s own Climate Change Strategy. They also agreed to explore opportunities for collaborative projects on renewable energy and water management.

Environment Minister, John Griffiths said:

“I am pleased to announce this new programme of work which is good news for both Lesotho and Wales. Our own work to develop a climate Change Strategy for Wales means that there is significant expertise around this issue within the Welsh Government and we are keen to share that expertise more widely.

“I am confident that this programme of work will be of real benefit to the Governments of both countries and look forward to seeing the results of this work in due course.”

Minister Thahane said:

"Climate change is already impacting on Lesotho. We need to move quickly to get our plans in order. This mutually beneficial partnership will help us make progress with our plans."

The Welsh Government has a raft of experience to share as a result of the work it did to develop its own Climate Change strategy which was published in October 2010.

The two countries also have previous experience of joint working as earlier this year a Welsh Government Climate Change economist spent 3 weeks in Maseru, Lesotho working with partners in the Lesotho Meteorological Department to help develop the Basotho Climate Change Strategy . This was part of the Welsh Government’s Wales for Africa programme. The Ministers today agreed to extend this joint working over the coming year to develop the Lesotho climate change strategy.

Wales Sports Personality of the Year - Winner

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to Gold medallist Jade Jones for winning the 2012 Wales Sports Personality of the Year.

Rugby union back-row Dan Lydiate took second place and cyclist Geraint Thomas third in the competition.

Jade is only 19 years old, but has already achieved Gold in Taekwondo in the London 2012 Olympic Games - the first ever gold medal in the sport for Team GB. Jade, who took up the sport at the age of six, beat China’s Yuzhuo Hou 6-4 to take the women's -57kg title this summer to win the Gold medal.

The Welsh Sports Personality of the Year award is one many Jade has achieved to date. She has also won the BBC Wales Young Sports Personality of the Year, the Jaguar Academy of Sport Special Recognition and Star of the Future Awards.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Lynn Davies, Olympic Long Jump champion, who set the World Record in the 1964 Olympic Games. Lynn ‘The Leap’ was one of the torchbearers in the Olympic torch relay, running in Cardiff in this May. A huge crowd of people across Wales lined the streets to greet the torchbearers, for what was to be a great start to a summer of sport.

Wales International Young Artist Award

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 4 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

British Council Wales has officially launched its first annual Wales International Young Artist Award seeking the brightest young stars in the world of the arts. The first award of its kind in Wales.

Wales has a thriving creative industry and the Wales International Young Artist Award will not only identify a new pool of young talent across the creative sectors, but also nurture it further by offering young artists from Wales, national and international exposure.

Young artists interested in entering can belong to a range of creative backgrounds including painting, sculpture, as well as photography, printmaking, drawing and film. Call for applications and more details on the rules of the competition will be announced in February 2013 and the British Council will welcome candidates between the ages of 17 and 25 years to apply for the award.

Winner/s will be selected in September 2013.

Simon Dancey, Director British Council Wales said:

“It’s so important to recognise and celebrate emerging talent from Wales, and that’s why the British Council has created the Wales International Young Artist Award.

Through this award, we will tap into a wide network of the Wales’s finest young artists and help open doors for the most talented to develop professionally and creatively while making lasting international connections that will inform their work for years to come.

Giving these artists an opportunity to exhibit their work not just in Wales, but internationally, will be invaluable for them at this stage in their careers and lives, and I’m delighted that we will have crucial part in making that happen.”

For more information, please contact Suma Pugh on suma.pugh@britishocouncil.org or 029 20924354.

Winter in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 4 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Winter in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 4 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today it is a bright winter’s day in much of Wales. A day to wrap up warm and enjoy a walk.

People who visit or move to Wales, often ask so what happens in winter? So we’ve created a winter section where we’ll tell you a bit about some of the things that we do.

We take a look at winter walks, winter traditions, Christmas, sport and much more. We hope you find it interesting and useful.

Wales Sports Personality of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Great to see such a wide range of sports represented on the shortlist of the BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year. We’ve so many internationally successful sportspeople, it will be a tough choice, with so many to choose from.

Wales Sports Personality of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales Sports Personality of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Great too to see Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds MBE nominated for the UK wide BBC Sports Personality of the Year list. The four times London 2012 medallist was born in England, but trains in Swansea in preparation for the events.

This summer we welcomed many people from across the globe to train in Wales ahead of the games. Many countries chose Wales because of the first class training facilities it has. We were pleased too that many expressed that they would like to come back and said they enjoyed the friendly Welsh welcome.

Wales Sports Personality of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

>Jade Jones, at aged just 19, achieved the first ever gold medal in Taekwondo for Team GB

>London 2012 gold medal winning and tour de France cyclist Geraint Thomas MBE

Wales Sports Personality of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The ten shortlisted are:

> triathlete Leanda Cave (pictured above), winner of the Ironman and Half-Ironman women's World Championships

> rugby player Dan Lydiate, who was named as six nations player of the tournament this year

> WBO world light-heavyweight boxer Nathan Cleverly, who has 25 straight wins to his record

> Welsh national footballer Gareth Bale, who won the award in 2010 and this year has been an inspirational player in the Wales World cup qualifying

It was such a successful time at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games, with Wales winning 7 medals and 15 medals respectively. So it’s great to see the list includes six nominations from our many successful Olympians and Paralympians. All nominees achieved gold medals in the London 2012 games.

They are:
> rower Tom James MBE (pictured), one of the men's four, winning gold in London 2012

Wales Sports Personality of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

> Para-cyclist Mark Colbourne, winner of three Paralympic medals during the 2012 games

> Paralympian Aled Sion Davies (pictured) achieved both a bronze medal in F42/F44 Shot put and a gold medal in the F42/44 Discus in London 2012

> Paralympian Josie Pearson, Discus gold medallist in the F51/52/53 class in the London 2012 games

Well done to all those nominated. Voting lines open today (Monday 3 December) until 1800 GMT on Saturday, 8th December 2012.

We’re pleased to see that another of our Paralympian champions, Olivia Breen has been nominated for the UK wide BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year. Olivia gained the Bronze in the T35-38 4x100m relay.

Artes Mundi 5 Winner

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The winner of the Artes Mundi 5 prize was announced in an evening ceremony at National Museum Cardiff. From a shortlist of 7, Teresa Margolles has been chosen as the winner of the prize by a panel of international curators and directors. With a first prize of £40,000, Artes Mundi is the largest cash prize awarded for the arts in the UK and one of the most significant in the world. The exhibition, which opened in October has already had 30,000 visitors.

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones said:

“I would like to congratulate Teresa Margolles on winning Artes Mundi 5. The competition continues to go from strength to strength, and is truly international in its reach. It is a great privilege to be able to host the event in Wales and it plays a major role in our nation’s vibrant cultural scene.”

First Minister welcomes Ethiopian Ambassador

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the UK was welcomed to Cardiff by First Minister Carwyn Jones today as he made his first visit to Wales (Weds 28th Nov).

His Excellency Berhanu Kebede held talks with the First Minister and met officials from the Welsh Government’s trade and inward investment team. The Ambassador also attended a conference focusing on developing tourism to Ethiopia.

Wales and Ethiopia have links through the Welsh Government’s ‘Wales for Africa’ programme which helps individuals, groups and communities across Wales get involved in projects with countries in Sub Saharan Africa.

Projects include a scheme between Wrexham and Abba Gebremichael School which is providing funding for a feeding programme for a nursery, as well as help with building a new nursery building. There is also a partnership programme between schools in Monmouthshire and Yirgacheffe in Ethiopia.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is involved in a project that aims to improve the delivery of eye care through the Yirga Alem Eye unit.

Following his meeting with the Ambassador, the First Minister said:

“I am delighted to welcome the Ambassador on his first visit to Wales. Our education, culture and health links are well established and we are now looking to expand the economic links between our countries.

“Back in 2009 Fugro Data Solutions in Conwy secured new business in Ethiopia worth £2 million. We want to explore any further potential economic opportunities to our mutual benefit. That is why our trade and inward investment officials held talks with the Ambassador and his team.”

Wales recycles more than half its waste

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh councils collectively recycled 53% of their waste in the first quarter of 2012/13. This means that Wales continues to lead the rest of the UK on recycling and is on course to meet its first statutory target.

The Environment Minister, John Griffiths, announced the results at the Waun Gron recycling centre in Cardiff. Speaking at the event he said:

“Wales is leading the way on recycling because the people of Wales are increasingly realising that burying their rubbish in the ground is no longer an option and are choosing more sustainable ways to manage their waste. I thank them for everything they have achieved to date.

“We must now keep the momentum going and continue to build on our recycling success so that we can meet our challenging targets of 70% recycling by 2025 and zero waste by 2050.”

Chinese delegation to strengthen links with Swanse

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A Chinese delegation is to visit Swansea University’s College of Medicine this week to help mark the life of a Swansea man who founded one of the oldest hospitals in China.

The visitors, from Hankou Union Hospital which is affiliated to Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, are to visit Swansea to commemorate the centenary of the death of the founder of the hospital, Dr Griffith John, a Swansea born missionary who worked in Hankou for more than 50 years.
As part of their visit to the city, the group led by Dr. Guobin Wang, the President of Union Hospital, Professor of General Surgery, are to visit Swansea University on Friday 30 November.

They will to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Vice Chancellor of Swansea University, Professor Richard B. Davies which is intended to strengthen the historic links with the College of Medicine in the field of medical and healthcare education research and collaboration.

This will be followed by a tour of the College of Medicine, the Institute of Life Science, and Singleton Hospital.

Professor Keith Lloyd, Head of the College of Medicine at Swansea University said: “We welcome our colleagues from China and hope to work closely with them in the coming years to establish a long-term programme of both undergraduate and postgraduate student teaching and exchange, scholar exchange and joint research and workshops.”

For more information on Wales' links with China, see our China pages.

Boxing World Series in Newport

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh boxers Fred Evans and Andrew Selby, will compete in the first home match of the British Lionhearts in the Boxing World Series.

The World Series matches are taking place in countries across the world, including Italy, Argentina, Germany and the USA. 250 boxers are competing, representing 40 countries. They include 41 London 2012 Olympians and 10 medallists from the games.

Evans and Selby will compete tonight (Friday 23 November) in the Celtic Manor resort, Newport, south east Wales, the venue, that hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup.

The boxers will be part of the British Lionhearts squad and will face Italia Thunder (Italy). Italia Thunder are part of Group A, along with Argentina, Azerbaijan, India, Mexico, Poland and Russia. The British Lionhearts are part of Group B, along with Germany, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and USA.

Andrew Selby and Fred Evans were the first Welshmen to become European Champions in 86 years. Flyweight Andrew Selby won gold in the 2011 European Amateur boxing champions and a bronze in the 2008 champions. As well as his gold in the 2011 European Champions, this summer Welterweight boxer Fred Evans won the silver medal on the last day of the London 2012 Olympic Games, the highest boxing Olympic medal to be won by a Welsh boxer.

This year Cardiff University played host to boxers from around the world in the pre-games training camp ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Wales has had many successful boxers over the years, both in amateur and professional boxing, including Joe Calzaghe, Steve Robinson and Enzo Maccarinelli. Nathan Cleverly has recently retained his WBO World Light-Heavyweight title for the fourth time.

Amateur women’s boxer Lynsey Holdaway from Merthyr Tydfil won the silver medal at the European Championships in Rotterdam. In 2010 she competed in the final of the GB Amateur Boxing Championship, with victory over Ruth Raper, but lost out in the title decider to GB Podium Squad member, and double World silver medallist, Nicola Adams.

Wales has played host to several big boxing matches, including the 1993 Lewis v Bruno WBC Heavyweight bout in the Cardiff Arms Park and the Millennium Stadium hosted the Commonwealth Heavyweight match in July 2006, which saw Matt Skelton beat Danny Williams.

In April 2007 Joe Calzaghe retained his WBO Super-Middleweight belt with a match again Peter Manfredo and in November 2007 Calzaghe beat Mikkel Kessler.

Welsh food and drink producers set their sights on

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Held at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, FHC is one of the leading international food and drink trade events in China, and in 2011 the three-day event attracted more than 20,000 trade buyers from China alone.

The Welsh exhibitors are:

Burts Biscuits and Cakes Ltd
Rachel’s Dairy Limited
The Hurns Brewing Company Ltd
The Abergavenny Fine Food Company
Trioni Ltd
The Celt Experience Brewery
Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales

Welsh food and drink producers set their sights on

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh producers will be among thousands of food and drink companies from across the globe showing their produce in Shanghai at the prestigious Food and Hotel China 2012 exhibition (14th – 16th November).

The Welsh producers are exhibiting at the event in Shanghai as part of the Welsh Government’s Wales the True Taste Pavilion. The companies hope Food and Hotel China 2012 (FHC) the will help them identify new opportunities as well as further develop their existing trade in the region.

Three of the companies exhibiting have just scooped trophies at the prestigious Wales the True Taste Food and Drink Awards 2012-13.

The Welsh Government managed competition saw gold and silver awards going to both The Hurns Brewing Company and Rachel’s Dairy, and a silver export award for The Celt Experience Brewery.

China is the world’s second largest economy and importer, and by 2014 it will be the world’s largest grocery retail market. An increase in disposable income, urbanisation and a growing taste for foreign foodstuffs in China has presented European producers with significant opportunities.

Deputy Minister for Food, Alun Davies, said:

Sir Terry Matthews tips to Swansea Students

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

“It’s all about the team” – students get tips on success from billionaire entrepreneur Sir Terry Matthews

Sir Terry Matthews tips to Swansea Students

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

“The secret to success is number one, the team, number two, the team, and number three, the team”. This was the advice to students from billionaire entrepreneur – and Swansea graduate – Sir Terry Matthews, who has set up around 90 companies in his career, and who was launching Global Entrepreneurship Week 2012 in an event at Swansea University on 12 November.

Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) is a worldwide movement aimed at developing entrepreneurial skills, with events taking place in over 100 countries.

Sir Terry, who has been at the forefront of the IT revolution through his work on semiconductors, told the students:

“I’ll tell you what being an entrepreneur is. You need to be able to create a team. You need great communication skills. You need to be able to give quarterly updates on what’s going on – in plain English. You need to give people ownership and a common goal – that’s more important than the salary”.

Sir Terry graduated from Swansea in 1969 in engineering, and described his years in the city as “the best time of my life”, adding that he was “delighted to be back”.

GEW has as its theme this year the need to “pass on” skills needed for success. Swansea University is taking part through its Swansea Employability Academy, which aims to boost students’ skills and experience and thus their employment prospects.

The week will also include other practical workshops for students, including:

How to turn your research into a good business idea
Simon Gibson on how the Alacrity Foundation can support students who want to start a high-tech business
How Swansea students Ben and Jezz built an award-winning bike business “Mango Bikes”, which featured on the BBC series “Be your Own Boss”, winning £50,000 of funding.

Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott, leader of the Swansea Employability Academy, said:

“The Swansea Employability Academy develops and supports employability, entrepreneurship and employee learning across the university. We are confident that the Academy will make a positive impact on the regional economy.”

“Developing entrepreneurial skills is important for every student, whether they become employees or start their own business, because employers tell us that they require creative and innovative employees. Swansea University students are taking advantage of these opportunities to develop these skills during their student career, which we are organising with the full support of the students’ union.”

Soundtrack International Film and Music Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

From today until Sunday (14th - 18th November) Wales is again hosting The Soundtrack International Film and Music Festival which celebrates the distinctive relationship between music and film. The festival has been in existence since 2008.

Highlights this year include the screening of Academy Award winning director Marting McDonagh's 'Seven Psychopath's', which reunites Marting with Colin Farrell and 'In Bruges' composer Carter Burwell. The film also stars Sam Rockwell and Christopher Walken.

There will be a screening of 'The Tsunami and the Cherry Blosson', Directed by Academy Award nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker (Waste Land). The film went on to receive a Nomination for Best Documentary, Short Subject at the 2012 Academy Awards. It also won the Jury Prize in Short Filmmaking at the Sundance Film Festival 2012. A truly moving film subtly underpinned with an original score by Moby.

Soundtrack are hosting an In Conversation with David Arnold, multi award-winning British film and television composer best known for his work on blockbuster films such as Independence Day, Stargate and the most recent five James Bond films. He was nominated for a Grammy, a BAFTA and won 'Best Song' at the World Soundtrack Awards for Casino Royale. Musical Director for the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Closing Ceremonies,

David is a highly esteemed artist, record producer, songwriter and conductor who has worked some of the biggest names in music, including Bjork, Iggy Pop, Jarvis Cocker, Massive Attack, The Kaiser Chiefs, Shirley Bassey and Sir Paul McCartney.

The festival is recognised by the International film and music community as for showcasing events in a distinctive way, with a packed programme of Premieres, Master Classes, Q&A’s, Educational Workshops and exceptional Live Performances.

Mumford and Sons Video

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Mumford and Sons video Lover of Light has already had over a million and half hits on You Tube – we wonder if all the people watching the video realise just where that beautiful coast and sunrise is?

The video, that was directed by and stars Idris Elba, star of Prometheus and USA show The Wire, was filmed in the Gower, and Pembrokeshire, south west Wales.

Mumford and Sons Video

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As well as attracting talent to Wales, we’ve many home grown exports that are known world-wide including Super Furry Animals, Catherine Jenkins, Stereophonics, Cerys Matthews, Tom Jones and the Manic Street Preachers.

We’ve lots of venues to watch both home grown and international talent including the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff is famous as a venue for sport. It has played host to many major music events including concerts of Tina Turner, The Rolling Stones, U2 and Paul McCartney. Madonna kicked off her Sticky and Sweet tour at the stadium.

We’ve many other venues for live music including the Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff (formerly called the Cardiff International Arena), Clwb Ifor Bach and Venue Cymru in Llandudno, north west Wales.

Mumford and Sons Video

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Others who’ve chosen Wales for their music videos include Iron Maiden, whose Can I Play with Madness was filmed at Tintern Abbey and Siouxsie and the Banshees video the Passenger was filmed in the Italianate village of Portmeirion. Supergrass shot their video Alright in the north Wales village of Morfa Bychan and again Portmeirion featured. The video has many references to the Prisoner, the cult 1960s TV programme, also filmed at Portmeirion - one of the many TV and films shot in Wales.

Many recordings have been made in Wales too, including at the Monnow Valley Studio, Rockfield, Monmouth. It has been a recording studio for over the last 30 years and big names such as Oasis, Black Sabbath, Joss Stone, The Datsuns, Rush, Iggie Pop and Led Zeppelin have recorded there.

The Welsh countryside is a great place to retreat and get inspiration for music – it certainly worked a treat for Led Zeppelin! In the 1970s, after a hectic time touring the USA, band members Robert Plant and Jimmy Page relaxed in a remote cottage in North Wales and created their world famous Stairway to Heaven.

Mumford and Sons Video

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Plus there’s many music festivals throughout the year, with a range of different genres, including classic, jazz, rock and pop. There’s Greenman, Brecon Jazz, Beach Break Live, Wakestock, Gregynog Festival and the Swn Festival to name a few. We look forward to hosting WOMEX 2013 and welcoming acts from across the world.

Here’s Lover of the Light, enjoy the music and, of course, the Welsh scenery.

Diwali in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Happy Diwali. Today is the start of Diwali - festival of lights - the most widely celebrated festival in India. Many people living in Wales will also be celebrating.

The five day festival is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world each year. Diwali, also sometimes know as Divali, Dipawali, or Deepavali is known as the ‘Festival of Lights’ because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called diyas.

The National Museum Cardiff will mark the last day of Diwali on Sunday 17 November with the Diwali Mela where there will be Bollywood and Bhangra music and dance, rangoli workshops and much more for all the family.

For information on links between India and Wales, see our India pages.

Nathan Cleverly retains light-heavyweight title

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales' Nathan Cleverly retained his WBO world light-heavyweight title for the fourth time with a stoppage of American Shawn Hawk at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles.

The undefeated Welshman added his 25th straight win to his record with a showcase performance over the late replacement which displayed his technique and skill in eight punishing rounds.

Cleverly entered the arena with both Welsh music icon Tom Jones and Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke. His exceptional display has caught the eye of American fans and broadcasters, and a return to the USA in 2013 is a very realistic possibility.

Cleverly said:

“I enjoyed this, I enjoyed the atmosphere. He was a tough opponent but eventually I broke him down. I'm really looking forward to coming back to the US and fighting here again."

‘Seating Arrangements’ wins Dylan Thomas Prize

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Her book takes a satirical look at the pretentions of New England society, and is a hilarious but deeply moving study of an American family as it prepares for a wedding.

A panel of judges including Hay Festival founder Peter Florence, novelist Allison Pearson, author, singer and BBC 6 music presenter Cerys Matthews, journalist and author Carolyn Hitt, commentator and artist Kim Howells, Guardian Review journalist Nicholas Wroe, and Chairman of the Dylan Thomas Prize, Peter Stead, chose the winner.

Chairman of the Judges Peter Florence said:

‘Seating Arrangements’ wins Dylan Thomas Prize

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The announcement of the winner was the climax of a week of events that four of the five shortlisted authors participated in on behalf of the DylanEd programme. Maggie and her fellow shortlisted authors visited schools and universities across Wales to give readings and participate in creative writing workshops, helping to inspire the next generation of young writers.

Maggie Shipstead joins previous winners Rachel Trezise, from Wales, for her set of short stories Fresh Apples, winner of the inaugural prize in 2006, Vietnamese writer Nam Le for The Boat (2008), USA writer Elyse Fenton for Clamour (2010), and the most recent winner, Lucy Caldwell from Northern Ireland for her novel The Meeting Point (2011).

‘Seating Arrangements’ wins Dylan Thomas Prize

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Maggie Shipstead, 28, from California, USA has won the Dylan Thomas Prize for her novel Seating Arrangements.

The prize is open to any published author in the English language under the age of 30; the award celebrates the legacy of Welsh poet and writer Dylan Thomas, who wrote most of his best work in his 20s. This prize aims to recognise and support the literary heroes of the future.

Maggie won the £30,000 University of Wales Dylan Thomas Prize at an awards ceremony held at the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea on Friday evening.

A mentee of Orange Prize winner Zadie Smith at the Iowa Writer’s Workshop, where she studied in 2008, the judges thought that Maggie Shipstead showed great promise, with novelist and judge Allison Pearson declaring:

Wales and Argentina

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales kicks off its Autumn international series on Saturday with a match against Argentina. This is always an interesting fixture, not just for the quality of the rugby but because of the historic links between Wales and Patagonia.

When the Mimosa taking Welsh emigrants from Wales landed in 1865, most settled in the Province of Chubut. Around 50,000 can claim Welsh ancestry and around 5,000 speak the Welsh language, many retaining links with Wales and travelling back here from time to time - particularly when there is the excuse of a rugby match!

If you're interested in learning more about the history of the Welsh community in Patagonia, Glaniad documents this and is available in Spanish, Welsh and English.

Wales next opponents for the Autumn internationals will be Samoa next Friday evening (16 November). This weekend Samoa will be facing Canada at Eirias in Colwyn Bay, North Wales which will also host Russia v USA , Tonga v USA and Canada v Russia.

The other games will be against New Zealand on 24 November and Australia on 1 December.

Year-long celebration of Dylan Thomas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

David Alston, Arts Director with the Arts Council of Wales, who with the Welsh Government and the support of Swansea, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion Councils, are funding the Festival said,

Year-long celebration of Dylan Thomas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Events planned across Wales and beyond to mark birth centenary of one of Wales’ greatest poets.

Year-long celebration of Dylan Thomas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Hannah Ellis, granddaughter of Dylan Thomas and patron of the Dylan Thomas 100 Festival said:

Year-long celebration of Dylan Thomas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The centenary of the birth of iconic Welsh poet Dylan Thomas will be celebrated with a year of events across Wales and the world, Business and Tourism Minister Edwina Hart has announced.

‘Dylan Thomas 100’ will be a year-long festival and line-up of events including theatre performances, visual arts, comedy, television, film and exhibitions, to be held across Wales and beyond, to celebrate the life and work of the poet, thanks to funding from the Welsh Government and other partners.

The settings that inspired Dylan the most will be the main focus for DT100, from his hometown of Swansea’ and Laugharne’s shores, to the Ceredigion countryside.

Year-long celebration of Dylan Thomas

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In-Wales events include a Wales-wide theatre production tour of ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’, new productions of some of Dylan’s great works including ‘Under Milk Wood’, a series of activities centred around the iconic Boathouse in Laugharne, including a literary public tour, and a major new exhibition at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.

A year-long Swansea Festival of Music and Arts is planned, based on the poet’s works, which includes a world premiere by composer Karl Jenkins and Bangor University will stage a mini-festival of five concerts, demonstrating musical responses to the works of Dylan Thomas.

A ‘Dylan Odyssey’, organised by Literature Wales, will offer a series of literary public tours in Wales and the United States, ranging from the boutique to shabby chic. Participants will be able to actively experience for themselves the places and themes which inspired and forged Dylan’s creative writing.

Speaking at the closing of this year’s Dylan Thomas Festival, Business and Tourism Minister Edwina Hart said:

Snowdon Mountain Railway

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 7 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Every year people from all over the world visit the summit of Snowdon. In 2011 404188 reached the top on foot, while many others took advantage of one of the Great Little Trains of Wales. With winter closing in the train made its last journey of the season this week.

When the Snowdon Mountain Railway reopens in spring 2013 there will be new carriages with room for more people and added comfort.

Snowdon Mountain Railway

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 7 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The old carriages have been in use since the 1920s. The four new carriages will be pushed by the four diesel locomotives in beautiful new livery and will be able to carry 74 passengers instead of previous 56.

The railway boasts the only public rack and pinion railway in the United Kingdom and takes people up 5 miles to just short of the summit of Snowdon, the tallest mountain in Wales and England.

On a clear day there are great views across to the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland and to the Isle of Man. There’s plenty to see on the way up too, including two viaducts, a waterfall and ancient forest.

In May this year the mountain train took the Olympic torch to the top of Snowdon, carried by Mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington. In August, Scouts climbed to the top of Snowdon to light the Welsh flame for the Paralympic torch.

For those who want to walk to the top there’s a New 'Mountain Info Service' App was that was Launched this year. It provides walkers with an inbuilt compass, Met Office mountain forecasts and instructional videos.

Snowdon is in the Snowdonia National Park.

Transglobal tree-planting

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 7 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

An ambitious inter-continental community link-up will result in a simultaneous tree planting event in Wales and Africa.

The synchronised creation of woodland in Carmarthenshire and Kenya will take place at the National Botanic Garden of Wales and on the slopes of Mount Kenya on Sunday November 25.

Transglobal tree-planting

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 7 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The global link has been forged by the Wales-based rainforest charity Size of Wales and the Greenbelt Movement, and will ensure a tree-planting event with a difference.

The Carmarthenshire event will create a new ‘Diamond Wood’ as part of the Woodland Trust’s Jubilee Woods project, which aims to plant six million trees across the UK to mark the Diamond Jubilee. The new wood at the National Botanic Garden will be one of only three of its kind in Wales and will be called Clearbrook Wood.

The National Botanic Garden’s curator, Simon Goodenough is urging people to come and help with the planting. He said: “Admission to the Garden on the 25th is FREE for all and planting is between 11am and 1pm, so we have our work cut out because there are 22,000 trees to plant.”

The National Botanic Garden and the Woodland Trust are partners of Size of Wales, which is working to help protect an area of tropical forests the same size as our country. Size of Wales has teamed up with the Woodland Trust to match tree planting done in Wales with tree planting in Africa.

Any community or school in Wales that is planting a free Woodland Trust tree pack this winter can contact Size of Wales and get their Welsh Trees matched tree for tree in Africa.

Simon added: “A rich mosaic of native species will be planted here at the Garden including birch, poplar, alder, willow and oak. A celebratory oak, raised from an acorn from Sandringham, will be a special commemoration of the Queen’s Jubilee.”

All those interested in helping are asked to wear suitable ‘outdoorsy’ clothes and bring a spade.

The Community Planting Day on Sunday November 25th will be followed by a week of planting by local schoolchildren.

The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity.
Size of Wales aims to bring everyone in Wales together to help sustain an area of tropical forest the size of Wales as part of a national response to climate change.

The Greenbelt Movement is an environmental organisation empowering communities, particularly women, to conserve the environment and improve livelihoods.

The National Botanic Garden of Wales is open from 10am until 4.30pm. For more information on Garden news and events, go to the National Botanic Garden of Wales’s website, email info@gardenofwales.org.uk or call 01558 667149.

Animation at the Museum

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 4 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales has been at the heart of animation for close to a century. Many popular cartoons known throughout the world were created in Wales including SuperTed, Fireman Sam, Jerry the Tyke and Rastamouse to name a few.

Until 17 March the National Museum Cardiff and the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea, are celebrating the past, present and future of Wales Animation with a series of exhibitions and hands-on events.

A variety of events which explore the techniques that bring still images to life will be on offer, including film screenings and hands-on events including Christmas Characters Cartoon Family Day, 3D & Pop up Christmas Cards, Animation Family Workshops, drawing workshops and Turnip Starfish Animation Taster Weekend. More information on these events and museum opening times can be found on the National Museum and National Waterfront Museum websites.

For more information about the 7 museums which make up the National Museum Wales visit our museums in Wales pages.

For people interested in studying Animation in Wales degree courses are available at the University of Newport, University of Glamorgan, Swansea Metropolitan University and the University of Glyndwr.

The Big Draw - Come Draw with Me

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 3 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout October the UK has been celebrating The Big Draw - the world's biggest celebration of drawing. If you missed it, it is not too late. Special events are taking place throughout the UK.

For adults looking to develop their drawing skills the Come Draw with Me event on the evening of Thursday 8 November is a great opportunity to join acclaimed Welsh and Welsh-based artists for a unique evening in the Impressionist and Modern Art galleries in the National Museum Cardiff. Five artists - Brendan Stuart Burns, Laura Ford, Marega Palser, Stephen West and Sue Williams - will be inspiring participants and helping them to develop their own drawing skills. For more information of the event and charges see the Big Draw website.

The National Museum of Wales houses the biggest collection of French impressionist paintings outside Paris.

Glyndwr University Honours Royal Wedding Composer

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 2 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Professor Paul Mealor who's composition, Ubi Caritas, was performed at the wedding of Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge is among those receiving Honorary Fellowships from Glyndwr University in north east Wales this week.

Others include Gillian Clark, the national poet for Wales and, from sport, rower Tom James who won a gold medal at this year's Olympic Games, Beverley Jones who won bronze in the F37 Discus for Paralympics GB and David Watkins, former rugby player of both codes - the only player to captain the British and Irish Lions Rugby Union team and the Great Britain Rugby League team.

Wales first in the world to legislate for play

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 2 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In 2001 Wales took the groundbreaking step of establishing a Children's Commissioner for Wales. Since then England, Scotland and Northern Ireland have all appointed their own Children's Commissioners.

Now the Welsh Government is taking a global lead on promoting the importance of children’s play and for the first time, legislating to place a duty on local authorities to assess the sufficiency of play and recreational opportunities for children in their areas.

Today (2 November 2012) regulations and statutory guidance for play “sufficiency assessments” come into effect, setting out criteria for assessing play opportunities in each local authority area: audits of open spaces, play and recreation provision and other considerations including traffic, transport and community initiatives.

The assessments will be used to develop local authority action plans to improve play opportunities for all children across Wales. The deadline for the completion of assessments is 1 March 2013.

Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, Gwenda Thomas said:

Direct flight from Germany to Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 2 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last weekend the clocks went back in Wales, so, with British summer time officially at an end, we’re already looking forward to next Spring.

German airline Lufthansa is to introduce a new weekly route between Düsseldorf and Cardiff from spring 2013. Starting on 4 May until 5 October, the weekly flights will offer visitors from Germany a direct day time flight to Wales.

Direct flight from Germany to Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 2 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales is already a popular destination for Germans and the flights will enable direct access to Cardiff from the largest populated region in Europe. German visitors to Wales will be able to see the best of Welsh culture and scenery and enjoy the cost effective tourist benefits of travelling on direct flights to Wales.

Visitors who fly to Cardiff Airport will find it is just a short journey from the airport to the capital city of Wales, Cardiff. There are plenty of ways to travel, with links by rail and bus or you can pre-book a taxi or car hire.

In Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, there is plenty to do, with lots of events and entertainment, including the Cardiff Festival that takes place each summer. There’s a great shopping centre and many different types of restaurants. Right in the centre of the city is Cardiff Castle and close to this is the National Museum for Wales, Cardiff. There’s a great selection of accommodation for all budgets, starting at budget accommodation in hostels, right through to four and five star hotels.

Cardiff bay is just a short journey from the city centre and offers a variety of things to do and see, including entertainment at the Wales Millennium Centre. The bay is also home to the Norwegian Church art centre, the Doctor Who Experience and the Senydd and there are many places to enjoy food and relax.

Visitors will also be easily able to travel around Wales, with Swansea, south west Wales is only an hour or so away and the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast is within easy reach. Journeys to mid and north Wales can be reached by car or rail, with the train being about 4 hours to north Wales.

The Cardiff Airport is quite small, making it very easy to find your way around, but still has facilities you’d expect, including a place to buy food and there is an Executive lounge.

Great Wall of China or Offa’s Dyke?

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 1 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Offa’s Dyke walk has been named by Lonely Planet as one of the greatest wall walks in the world, alongside the Great Wall of China.

Offa’s Dyke was constructed in the 8th Century on order of King Offa, probably to divide his Kingdom of Mercia from rival kingdoms in what is now Wales and is Britain’s longest Ancient Monument.

The popular walk takes in views of stunning countryside. The walk starts at Sedbury Cliff and finishes on the Prestatyn seafront.

Walkers will travel via Chepstow Castle, the Wye Valley and then to Tintern Abbey and Monmouth. The walk continues in the Black Mountains, to the town of books Hay-on-Wye and onto Knighton, Llangollen and the Pont-Cysyllte Aqueduct, before heading to Moel Famau and the Clwydian Range Hill Forts, ending in Prestatyn.

The walk is 177 mile/285 kilometre long and passes through eight counties, crossing the English/Welsh border over 20 times. Offa’s Dyke National Trail takes around two weeks to complete, but many people chose a short section of the walk.

The walk is near to several railway stations, starting at Chepstow and there’s accommodation and refreshments available along the way.

It's not the first time Wales has made the Lonely Planet's best lists, last year the Lonely Planet named the Wales Coastal Path as the number one region to visit in 2012 and Llyn y Fan Fach, a remote lake in Wales’ Black Mountains was featured in the 2011 list 1000 Ultimate Sights.

007 connections with Bond

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

*Desmond Llewelyn, from Newport played Q in 17 of the films between 1963 and 1999

*Actor Jonathan Pryce, from Carmel near from Holywell, Flintshire, starred in Tomorrow Never Dies as the media mogal Elliot Carver.

*Oscar-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming, who is from Carmarthenshire, created the look for Bond films Goldeneye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World is Not Enough, Die Another Day and Casino Royale.

*Adele’s Bond theme tune is proving popular, but Dame Shirley Bassey is currently the singer of the most Bond theme tunes. The Cardiff born singer sang Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever and Moonraker.

007 connections with Bond

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The new James Bond film Skyfall is hitting the headlines in the UK and it won’t be much longer before US and Canadian fans get a chance to see the action.

Here are 007 Welsh connections to Bond, James Bond that you may not know…

* Three-time British rally champion Mark Higgins is a stuntman in Skyfall. Mark, who lives in Abermule, near Newtown, Powys mid Wales was also a stuntman for the 2008 Bond film Quantum of Solace. Mark not only takes the part of James Bond speeding away in his Aston Martin sports car but also of Naomie Harris, who plays British agent Eve in Skyfall.

007 connections with Bond

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

* Former James Bond Timothy Dalton was born in Colwyn Bay. Timothy starred as Bond in The Living Daylights and Licence to Kill.

* Wales is a popular choice for filming of many films and TV programmes. Scenes for several James Bond films were filmed in Wales: Scenes from The World is Not Enough, From Russia With Love and Quantum of Solace were filmed in the Snowdonia National Park and the closing scene of Die Another Day was filmed in Penbryn Beach, Cardigan.

First Minister hosts Wales-Ireland economic talks

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The importance of trade within the EU was the focus of talks between the First Minister Carwyn Jones and the Irish Ambassador to the UK in Cardiff today.

Ambassador Bobby McDonagh was making his third visit to Wales where he highlighted the excellent relations between Wales and Ireland and how both governments want to develop them further. Ireland is Wales' second largest exports market with the latest figures showing that £1,475 million worth of goods over the year went to Ireland from Wales.

There are around 50 Irish owned enterprises active in Wales employing 2,600 people. Tourism is another major link, with tourists from Ireland accounting for more than 20 percent of all Wales' international visitors, with 200,000 people a year spending £50 million annually.

The First Minister said:

US Gavin and Stacey

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve heard that Fox are making a US version of the popular comedy show Gavin and Stacey.

The show was a big hit in the UK and was filmed in the seaside town Barry and the capital city Cardiff in south east Wales. The original show was also broadcast in several countries, including the USA.

Writers James Cordon (who played Smithy) and Ruth Jones (who played Nessa) have been signed up as executive producers, but will probably not appear in the US show. Writer David Rosen, known for MTV cult comedy I Just Want My Pants Back, will work on the script.

A pilot is going to be shot and decisions will then be made on whether to broadcast. Another channel’s attempts at remarking the comedy did not work out and other British hits have not always gone on to success in the US. Apparently there will be no “Gavla”, as the characters names are to be changed to be more American.

Cordon, who scoped a Tony for his role in the US play One Man, Two Guvnors, is currently filming in Italy, where he will play the part of Paul Potts. Tenor Paul was a manager at a shop in Bridgend and living in Port Talbot before he shot to fame in 2007 in the first series of Britain’s Got Talent.

Bridgend born Ruth Jones has gone on to further success with her new series Stella proved popular. Stella is filmed in Wales, largely in Ferndale in the Welsh valleys.

Dylan Thomas’ Birthday

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Dylan Thomas’ Birthday

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

27 October was the birthday of one of Wales’ most famous writers, Dylan Thomas.

Dylan Marlais Thomas was born on 27 October 1914 in Swansea, south west Wales and died in New York, USA on 9 November 1953, aged 39.

During his short life he produced many famous works, including Under Milk Wood and the poem Do not go gentle into the good night.

The Dylan Thomas website is a great source of information about the writer. The Dylan Thomas Centre in Swansea hosts many events throughout the year, including the Dylan Thomas festival, which takes place each year from 27 October - 9 November at the Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea.

On the anniversary of the writer’s death, 9 November, the Dylan Thomas Prize is awarded every other year to recognise the best published writer in English under the age of 30 from anywhere in the world. The shortlist was announced last week. This year the winner will be announced at The National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

Snowdonia Marathon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Hot on the heels of the Cardiff Half Marathon is the Snowdonia Marathon which celebrates it's 30th birthday this Saturday. The event was "voted the Best Marathon in Britain 2011" by Runner's World readers.

The first event began in 1982, and was seen as an alternative to City events that have proven popular with runners. The route takes in the spectacular views of Snowdon, which is Wales' highest peak. The success is attributed to three areas according to the website of the event, these being: "the beautiful scenery, the runners that organize the race and the hospitality of the local people."

Snowdon offers some of the most extensive views in the British Isles. On exceptionally clear days, Ireland, Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man are all visible, as well as 24 counties, 29 lakes and 17 islands. The view between Snowdon and Merrick (southern Scotland) is the longest theoretical line of sight in the British Isles at 144 miles (232 km).

These incredible views that can be accessed by the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which is the only public rack and pinion railway in the United Kingdom, and after 100 years is a very popular tourist attraction. A must for participants and spectators that are travelling from afar and are spending a couple of days in the vicinity.

This year's race will take place on October 27th starting at 10:30 am. Good luck to all that are taking part.

Disney programme produced by Welsh company

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Disney programme produced by Welsh company

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Robert Webb is the new series’ storyteller, recounting timeless tales of the world’s most beloved bear that parents and kids can enjoy together. Filled with themes of friendship and teamwork, Tales of Friendship with Winnie the Pooh premiered on Disney Junior UK this autumn with 18 colourful five-minute episodes, rolling out in more than 21 countries worldwide in 2012. Currently, Disney Junior is the #1 measured preschool channel with individuals age 4+ in Germany, France, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and South Africa.

Tales of Friendship with Winnie the Pooh offers parents the chance to rediscover the joys and comforts of their childhoods, while also cherishing special moments with their own kids that can be passed on from generation to generation. The show is inspired by stories from the upcoming Disney Winnie the Pooh book series, also called Tales of Friendship, and features storybook images that come to life through a combination of live action and unique book-style motion graphics.

Best known as part of double act, Mitchell and Webb, Robert Webb has enjoyed TV and film success including Peep Show, The Magicians and Confetti.

Robert comments:

“I grew up enjoying Winnie the Pooh books and TV shows and now my children absolutely love them, so I’m thrilled to be part of the project. What’s great about this unique programme is that it offers kids today the chance to discover Winnie the Pooh and his friends through an engaging array of pictures and words that make bedtime storytelling both enjoyable and memorable.”

Desmond Tutu arrives in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Desmond Tutu arrives in Wales to praise Africa links. NHS staff, school pupils and youngsters who have benefitted from Welsh Government backed links with Africa will get a special visit from the Archbishop Desmond Tutu as he begins a whistle-stop tour of Wales today.

The world renowned activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner is visiting Wales as a guest of the First Minister to recognise the achievements of the ‘Wales for Africa’ programme.

‘Wales for Africa’ helps individuals, groups and communities across Wales create links and get involved in projects with countries in Sub Saharan Africa. The initiative is the focus for Welsh efforts to help deliver the UN Millennium Development Goals to halve global poverty by 2015.

In the six years since its creation the scheme has linked hundreds of Welsh communities with hundreds of African communities, influenced the school curriculum, supported Wales to become the world’s first Fair Trade Nation and delivered a world leading climate change project in Uganda with the UN.

Accompanied by the First Minister, Archbishop Tutu will meet people who have been involved in ‘Wales for Africa’. He will attend an Assembly at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr with sixth form students who will have the opportunity to ask the Archbishop questions. The school has a strong link with Moshoeshoe II High School in Lesotho and there have been a number of pupil and teacher exchanges in both directions.

The group will then travel to the Royal Glamorgan Hospital to see an exhibition displaying various Wales – Africa Health links where Welsh NHS staff have travelled to Africa to help disadvantaged communities and gain skills which has enhanced their work at home.

The day will culminate at a special ‘Wales for Africa’ celebratory event at Valleys Kids in Rhondda Cynon Taff. Valleys Kids have been involved in a groundbreaking link with the Langa township of Cape Town. Earlier this year groups from both communities performed a specially composed musical “Torchbearers” at the Wales Millennium Centre and are now travelling to Cape Town for a repeat performance. The Archbishop will be shown a new short film highlighting the story of ‘Wales for Africa’ so far.

Halloween in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

On 31 October it’s Halloween and the opportunity to enjoy some frighteningly good fun. This year Halloween falls during half term and there’s many events to keep your little ghosts and wizards entertained. There are events for adults too and with many places in Wales said to be haunted, why not go along and see for yourself if you spot something spooky?

The events for children include a Halloween trail in the National Slate museum, Llaberis, storytelling in Cardiff Castle and lots for children to enjoy at Beaumaris Castle.

There’s a variety of events in Swansea, south west Wales, for all ages, including (for adults only) an opportunity to take part in live paranormal investigations in Oystermouth Castle, Swansea.

Llancaiach Fawr Manor in south east Wales is reported to be one of the most haunted houses in south Wales. They have special Halloween events taking place in October, include craft activities and games for children, ghost tours for teenagers and for adults. If you’re not able to go there then, don’t worry, there’s plenty going on throughout the year, including ghost tours taking place from October 2012 until March 2013.

Other events include ghost stories by torchlight on the Margam Ghost Walk or the Llandaff Ghost Walk in Cardiff is said to be spookily good, with walks taking place throughout the year. If you dare, go to Bodelwyddan Castle for a ghost Walk or a Victorian Séance.

If horror movies are your thing why not head to Abertoir, the National Horror Festival of Wales. Taking place this year from 6-11 November, the festival is in its 7th year, with lots of frightening films in Aberystwyth and Cardiff joins in this year too.

WOMEX 2013: Coming to Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

When the 2013 venue was announced, Daniela Teuber, WOMEX Director of Production said: "We're very happy that Cardiff will be hosting WOMEX in 2013. The city offers a most favourable setting for our complex event and its 2500 delegates and many artists from all over the globe: truly professional, highly motivated local production partners; wonderful venues matching our multifaceted needs in close proximity; and Wales' outstanding cultural wealth, hospitality and scenic beauty."

WOMEX (short for World Music Expo), integrates a trade fair, showcases conferences, film market, networking sessions and awards. Musicians and their works have the possibility to make contact for international touring and album distribution.

If you have an interest in World Music, Cardiff is the place to be between October 23-27, 2013.

Welsh Food and Drink Producers Head for Sial 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A number of Welsh food and drink producers are exhibiting at the event in Paris as part of the Welsh Government's Wales the True Taste Pavilion.

Held at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition centre, SIAL 2012 provides an important opportunity for Welsh producers looking to reach and develop markets in Europe, which still accounts for over 80% of all UK food and non-alcoholic drink exports.

The region provides Welsh food and drink companies with an excellent trading base, France in particular, as the country has retained its position as the second largest export market for the UK sector. In 2011 exports of food and non-alcoholic drinks were over £1,466 million, a rise of 6.8% on the previous year.

Alun Davies, Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries will be visiting exhibitors at the Wales the True Taste Pavilion and Hybu Cig Cymru stands.

He said: "The Welsh Government is committed to strengthening the food and drinks sector in Wales, and I'm pleased so many Welsh companies are travelling to Paris for this important event.

SIAL is a tremendous opportunity to showcase to a global audience the fantastic food and drink from Wales, and I am sure visitors to the event will be impressed by the quality and diversity of Welsh produce."

A biennial exhibition, SIAL is one of the world's leading food and drink industry trade events, and 2012 is expected to attract around 140,000 industry visitors during its five day run, and will feature over 6,000 companies from more than 100 countries.

'Coffee Concerts' at the Museum

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday marked the first performance of the series by Leonid Gorokhov, described as "one of the finest cellists to have emerged from Russia in recent years." Leonid played excerpts of Schubert and Rachmaninov during his performance.

Each performance begins at 11:30am and tickets are also free to people between the ages of 8 and 25. There will also be performances from Vienna and Kazakhstan-born pianists, Katharina Wolpe and Evgenia Startseva. For further information, please view the 'What's On' area of the National Museum Wales website.

Advance Tickets: Adults £8.80/Concessions £6.60 (includes handling fee). Small number of tickets available in the Museum on the day £10 cash or cheque / Tickets available our Online Shop or the New Theatre: (029) 2087 8889.

Variety is the spice of apple weekend

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Apple Days are here again at the National Botanic Garden of Wales on Saturday and Sunday 20 – 21 October.

There’s plenty to try, taste and buy at the ever-popular Apple Weekend with a stunning display of 100s of varieties of everyone’s favourite fruit at the core of the two-day event.

As well as a rich array of fabulous fruit, there will be stalls selling apple-related products from pies and pork, cheese and chutney, to cider and squash. In addition, there will be lots of family activities such as apple pressing to make your own juice, badge making, apron designing, special quizzes, musical entertainment and a special chutney-making demonstration.

Garden experts will be on hand to offer tips on choosing, training and pruning your fruit trees and the ever-popular ‘identification table’ will again be in operation to help you identify that mystery variety of apple growing in your garden.

If you want your fruit identified, please bring along three typical examples of each variety of your apples with stalks and eye intact. Any additional information you can supply - e.g. if it’s a ‘cooker’, how does it cook? and how well does the variety keep? - would be appreciated.

The Garden is open from 10am until 4.30pm. For more information on Garden news and events, go to www.gardenofwales.org.uk, email info@gardenofwales.org.uk or call 01558 667149.

Dylan Thomas Prize Shortlist

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A 21 year old Nigerian novelist is the youngest of five rising literary stars shortlisted for the 2012 University of Wales’ Dylan Thomas Prize. Open to any published author in the English language under the age of 30, the annual international prize is one of the largest of its kind in the world for young writers.

21 year old Chibundu Onuzo’s book The Spider King’s Daughter is a modern-day Romeo and Juliet set against the backdrop of a changing Lagos.

Also from Africa is Zimbabwe-raised Andrea Eames’ The White Shadow, set in 1970s Rhodesia, where a young boy struggles to do the right thing in an unpredictable world. Californian Maggie Shipstead’s debut novel Seating Arrangements, which lays bare the pretentions of New England society, also makes the cut, along with Tom Benn’s crime fiction debut The Doll Princess, which explores the criminal underworld of 90s Manchester. Canadian D.W. Wilson’s collection of short stories Once You Break a Knuckle, about good people who make bad choices, completes a list of powerful and exciting books with a truly international reach, in which violence, repression and the difficulty of escaping pre-determined roles are themes which prevail throughout.

The five young writers were chosen by a panel of judges including Hay Festival founder Peter Florence, novelist Allison Pearson, Catatonia singer and BBC 6 music presenter Cerys Matthews, and Guardian Review journalist Nicholas Wroe.

Judge Cerys Matthews said:
“Considering that Dylan wrote some of his most revered poetry at the age of 20, it’s great to be involved in something which encourages young writers. The short listing was fraught with differing opinions; I look forward to the final melee!”

Chairman of the Dylan Thomas Prize Peter Stead said:
"These books have come from around the world, two from Africa, one from Canada, one from the USA and one from England, and the hallmark of them all is readability. These are all thunderingly good stories written with maturity, flair and confidence. Yet again the Dylan Thomas prize is assured a great winner".

Following the announcement of the 2012 Man Booker Prize on Tuesday, The Dylan Thomas Prize celebrates up-and-coming writing talent which will be making a significant mark on the literary scene in years to come. The Prize honours the internationally esteemed works of Dylan Thomas, who first came to the attention of the literary establishment on the publication of Light Breaks Where No Sun Shines when he was just 20 years old.

With a prize fund of £30,000, The Dylan Thomas Prize exists to nurture and inspire young writing talent from around the world - beginning on its very own doorstep. Starting this week, the Prize’s education programme, DylanEd, will be sending creative writing teachers out to 10 schools across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthen and Powys. The Shortlisted authors will also participate in a programme of workshops and readings in the Welsh community in the week preceding the Winner Announcement. The Prize aims to bring Wales to the World, and the World to Wales by inspiring Welsh youngsters with visits from young international published authors, and turning the literary spotlight on Wales and its own great legacies.

The Winner of the Prize will be announced at a glittering ceremony at The National Waterfront Museum, Swansea on 9 November – the anniversary of Dylan’s death.

Welsh Music Prize Winners

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to rock band Future of the Left for winning this year’s Welsh Music Prize. The prize was announced last night. The Cardiff band won with their third album, The Plot Against Common Sense.

Hosted by BBC Radio Wales DJ Adam Walton, the Prize ceremony celebrated the 12 shortlisted albums of the prestigious award, which included CYRK by Cate Le Bon, Hello Sadness by Los Campsinos!, Make Me Believe In Hope by Bright Light Bright Light and In Gold Blood by Kids In Glass Houses.

The winner was chosen by a diverse cross-section of 12 music industry experts, including Mike Williams (editor, NME), Lisa Gwilym (BBC Radio Cymru) and Dave Owens (Media Wales).

To commemorate this year’s Prize, a shortlist concert was held last night (Wednesday 17 October) at Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff in which eight of the 12 nominees performed before a sold-out crowd. Performers included Jodie Marie, Truckers of Husk, Exit International and Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog.

Coinciding with last year’s Swn Festival, the Welsh Music Prize was created in 2011 by BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens and festival promoter John Rostron to celebrate the finest music made in Wales or by Welsh musicians around the world. Last year’s winner was Hotel Shampoo by Gruff Rhys.

The Swn Festival continues this weekend at a variety of venues in Cardiff.

Michael Sheen awarded honorary degree

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Receiving his award Michael Sheen said:

"I'm thrilled to receive this Honorary Degree, particularly as it comes from Swansea, the city that I grew up closest to and where I had some of the happiest times of my youth. I am so proud to still be involved with so many groups and organisations in the West Glamorgan area and so to be honoured by Swansea University in this way is especially meaningful for me. "

After starting at the West Glamorgan Youth Theatre, Michael Sheen studied at RADA, (Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts), winning his first professional stage role in 1991, playing opposite Vanessa Redgrave. He has gone on to take roles as varied as Romeo, Henry V, Peer Gynt and even the Roman tyrant Caligula.
On screen he has played roles as diverse as former prime minister Tony Blair, interviewer David Frost, English football manager Brian Clough and actor Kenneth Williams. He has also recently been on American TV screens, playing opposite Tina Fey in NBC’s highly popular drama 30 Rock.

Acclaimed by audiences and critics in many countries, Michael has also contributed in many ways to south Wales. One example of this is The Passion, a unique theatrical project, for which we was the driving force, and which was staged over three days in his home town of Port Talbot, which is also the birthplace of Richard Burton and Sir Anthony Hopkins.

Michael Sheen is an ambassador for various charities and cultural initiatives, including the Dylan Thomas Prize, which promotes young writers, and which commemorates Swansea’s own poet, and another famous son of South Wales.

Michael Sheen awarded honorary degree

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh actor Michael Sheen, who grew up in Port Talbot, across the bay from Swansea, has been awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University.

The award took place in New York on Tuesday, October 16, where Michael Sheen and University Vice Chancellor Professor Richard B Davies, who conferred the award, were attending the US launch of the Richard Burton Diaries, which are kept at Swansea University, and which give a revealing insight into the life of another famous son of Port Talbot.

The official University citation declares that Michael Sheen is receiving his award for his “enormous contribution to the cultural life of South Wales and the wider world, and to the good name of Wales across the globe.”

Exhibition of Chinese art comes to Brecon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Travelling over 5,300 miles from Xi’an in Shaanxi Province, a group of three of China’s leading artists have brought their work to Wales. The exhibition, entitled Harmony is being held in the Andrew Lamont Gallery, Theatr Brycheiniog and Brecon Library from 5th October to 3rd November 2012. It includes famous scenes of rural China from the years of the Cultural Revolution by ‘peasant’ artist, Li Fenglan and features her intricate folk art of paper cutting.

Her paintings were used on postage stamps in China and have been shown in galleries and museums in China and the Far East. More recent work is by artist Li Qiong, whose paintings bring to life the vibrant landscapes and flowers of her native Shaanxi province in oils and acrylics. Her work depicts some very modern themes from today’s China, such as the estrangement of families forced to work hundreds of miles apart through economic necessity.

The ceramic sculptures of Zhu Bin employ contemporary forms and images, while bearing the influence of the 2,000 year tradition of ceramics production in his home town of Xi’an. Together, the works combine to show the rich diversity of Chinese art and show the principle of harmony at work.

Art workshops for schools and the community

During their stay in Brecon, the artists have visited local schools such as Queen Street Primary School in Abertillery, Ysgol Y Bannau and Llanllaes Primary Schools in Brecon, and Brecon High School. With the help of interpreters from the Confucius Institute, they offered workshops for pupils in paper cutting, painting folk images of flowers and animals, making a traditional clay pots and learning how to say a few words in Mandarin.

The Welsh connection

The exhibition has been made possible by Welsh-domiciled sculptor Robin Martin. He is Curator and Director of the exhibition and during the last three years he has been working with the artists in Xi’an. The work has been carefully selected by Robin to reflect the extraordinary diversity of art from this province of China.
The exhibition and workshops are sponsored by the Confucius Institute at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

The Confucius Institute works with schools and local communities to introduce people of all ages to Chinese language and culture. Chinese teachers from the Confucius Institute hold language tasters, China Days and China Weeks in schools. The Shaanxi International Economic and Cultural Exchange Bureau have co-sponsored the exhibition and made it possible for the artists to travel to Wales.

Swansea company hosts international forum

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A Swansea company - whose safety software is used by the largest multi-national companies in the world - hosts an international forum this week for its global clients.

RAP International specialises in developing software products to keep workers safe when carrying out maintenance work in hazardous environments such as the oil and petro chemical industries.

This week, as it hosts its fourth two day (Oct 17-18) international forum many of their clients including BP, Petrochina, Qatar Petroleum, Chevron and Castrol, are in Swansea to get an update on RAP International’s latest developments, provide feedback for future developments and share best practice.

RAP International’s flagship product, RAPnet, available in more than 20 languages, is used by more than 40,000 users daily and can help cut accidents by up to 75%. Its products and services are currently used in over 130 locations in 37 countries across the globe.

Their programmes provide simple and effective solutions for controlling risk and streamlining work processes in all sectors by a detailed approach to the identification, control and management of risk in the workplace.

Business Minister Edwina Hart, who gave the opening address at the Forum, said RAP International’s overseas success demonstrates the importance of trading internationally.

She added:

“RAP International is a great example of an innovative small Welsh company with global reach. It has proactively sought opportunities in overseas markets and successfully internationalised its business, exporting products developed in Wales to the world.

“The International Forum also provides an excellent opportunity to showcase Wales as a place to do business and highlight the skills and expertise available in Wales, helping to raise our profile globally.”

Event MD Mark Carter said they currently export 80% of their products overseas and holding international events for their clients helps promote their Swansea operation as a centre of excellence.

He said:

“The knowledge base has been developed in Wales and we want to keep it here and build and expand the business here, offering sustainable, well paid, interesting and challenging employment locally.

“We have ambitious plans for growth and are focusing our efforts on the Middle East and the Americas which represent a huge untapped market and aim to double turnover in the next three years.

“Our forecast growth will be driven by sales of the next generation of products we are currently developing. They are designed to utilise mobile and other technologies, particularly location capability, to make essential safety information instantly accessible for people working in remote locations.”

RAP International has had financial support and help in accessing overseas markets from the Welsh Government. It includes trade missions to Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Vietnam, Brazil and Washington which has helped contribute to an increase in sales to the Middle East and the Americas.

The company established in 1994 by Mark Carter with just two members of staff currently employs twenty people in Swansea and has an office in Houston, Texas and agents in the Middle East and China.

Richard Burton, Swansea and the USA

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Two senior researchers from Swansea University will be strengthening links with America, from The Richard Burton Diaries to new developments in nanohealth, as they fly the flag for Swansea and Wales in the USA next week.

The main focus of the visit, by University Vice Chancellor Professor Richard B Davies and history Professor Chris Williams, is the US launch of The Richard Burton Diaries. The handwritten diaries, which Burton began in 1939 and ended just before his death in 1984, are part of the Richard Burton archive at Swansea University.

The diaries were donated to the University by Burton’s wife Sally. They have been edited for publication by Professor Chris Williams, and are being launched in front of senior American figures from the arts and academia at events in New York and Los Angeles.

However, Swansea University’s links with the USA go beyond the Burton diaries.

Nanohealth – Swansea University collaborates with several US institutions in this area, including Texas A and M, and Rice University
US Scholars in Residence have taught at Swansea, for example from Colorado State University, University of North Carolina Wilmington and the University of Tennessee
Student exchange schemes have twinned Swansea with over 20 partner institutions in the USA, including California State University, University of Illinois, and Louisiana State University
Swansea’s American Studies department offers expertise on the USA, and its excellent sources on the US Civil War recently prompted a visit by American history buff – and Manchester United football manager – Sir Alex Ferguson

Richard Burton, Swansea and the USA

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Professor Richard B Davies, who will be meeting research councils and senior figures from American universities during the visit, underlined the importance of these links:

“Active international links are critical in making Swansea the strong research intensive university it is and creating the outstanding career and life-enhancing opportunities enjoyed by our students.

Since its foundation in 1920, Swansea University has embraced opportunities to think globally whilst remaining true to its regional roots.

The University is internationally active, attracting students and staff from over one hundred countries, with approximately 30% of all new staff recruited over the last five years from outside the UK.

Hundreds of Swansea students already spend part of their course studying somewhere else in the world and this is a hugely maturing experience greatly valued by employers. We want to grow these numbers further.

Our Academic Schools enjoy strong links with partner institutions around the world, and much of the University’s teaching and research has global relevance.

Maintaining and extending these links is very important, and we shall be using this opportunity to make sure Swansea is in the spotlight in the USA.”

Professor Chris Williams, who edited The Richard Burton Diaries, and who will be speaking about them at the launch events in the USA, said:

“Richard Burton was, and remains, a global name and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to speak internationally about his personal diaries, which reveal the deeply cultured, widely-read, intellectual man he was. And I think he would have been very pleased as well.”

Welsh Universities paving way forward for digital

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

An IT Wales project led by Swansea University in partnership with Aberystwyth, Bangor and Glamorgan Universities is getting young people in Wales excited about computing and challenging them to think about the world around them in a different way.

The Technocamps project which has already seen over 2500 young people (11-19) come through its doors is set to give 1500 more young people the opportunity to up-skill in areas such as programming, app development and games design.

Over the next three months young people from a range of different backgrounds will attend workshops and bootcamps across all of the partner universities to get to grips with Games Salad, Alice, Scratch, App Inventor, Robotics, iOS App development, Computer Games Ethics, Sketch Patch and Wearables.

Professor Faron Moller, Director of Technocamps at Swansea University, said, “It is great to see so many young people benefiting from this fantastic project. The basic fundamental skills of computing that they are learning are setting them up for life to either continue their education in this field or to pursue a career in this exciting industry.

The project’s new interactive website hosts a dedicated area for 11-15’s, 16-19’s, Teachers and Educators, Business and an interactive Technozone.

The site also promotes events, Facebook and Twitter activity as well as the Technozone which provides links to games and free downloads, the technozone is set to grow to include showcasing the work that young people actually produce in the workshops.

The project backed by £3.9 million from the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government is inspiring young people in the computing-based topics underpinning the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), enabling them to pursue careers in an area of economic importance in Wales.

'Black History Month' events held in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Every October throughout the UK, Black History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of Black people to the development of British society, technology, economy and arts & culture.

In Wales the Sherman Cymru and the Wales Millennium Centre will host events this month.For the first time, Sherman Cymru plays hosts to the biennial vibrant Afrovibes Festival at its Cardiff theatre home. There will be a whole host of events including dance, theatre and spoken word.

They include The Sibikwa Arts African Indigenous Orchestra, Open African Drumming Workshop and theatre. Events are running from the 15th to the 20th of October, please visit the Afrovibes area of the Sherman Cymru website for further information.

At the Wales Millennium Centre there will be a variety of free events on Sunday 28 October, including Afrobeats with WASE, a four-piece Afrofunk group, Bagatai with Ballet Nimba and Marley Tribute Act with Bob Bailey & the Jailers. Beverley Lennon, a Welsh language teacher will compere. Beverley, a former Radio Cymru host and the first black woman Welsh teacher in Cardiff.

Cardiff Bay, formerly Tiger Bay - Cardiff's dockland district - is Wales' oldest multi-ethnic community. The development of the Cardiff Docks played a major part in Cardiff’s development by being the means of exporting coal from the South Wales Valleys to the rest of the world, helping to power the industrial age. The coal mining industry helped fund the growth of Cardiff to become the capital city of Wales.

From the 1850s coal supplanted iron as the industrial foundation of South Wales, as the Cynon Valley and Rhondda Valleys were mined.

Running around Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Cardiff Half Marathon was not the only running activity held in Wales yesterday as the country played host to three separate events on Sunday, including the Flintshire 10k and the Aberystwyth Twin Peaks Challenge.

Thousands of runners participated in the events which raised funds for various charities including Barnados, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Nightingale House Hospice. Both Flintshire and Aberystwyth courses clock over ten kilometres in distance. Also, the Twin Peaks Challenge elevates above 450ft on two instances, proving a stern test for participants.

Runners from 34 different countries had fantastic conditions for yesterday's Cardiff Half Marathon. Kenya's Andrew Lesuuda crossed the finish line first in just under 63 minutes.

With the Flintshire 10k having entered it’s 19th year, and with over 18,000 having participated in the Cardiff Half Marathon with runners from all over the World, Wales is clearly popular as a location for those that take their running seriously.

Congratulations to all that took part and raised money for various causes.

Ancient relic displayed at the Swansea University

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 14 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Egypt Centre, based at Swansea University, has put on display a piece of ancient linen, some 2000 years old, which contains sections of the Book of the Dead.

The linen was probably wrapped around a mummy to act as a charm. Upon the linen are written sections of Chapter 148 and 149 of the Book of the Dead.

These Chapters describe one of the ideas of the afterlife, that the deceased had to pass through different mounds, each guarded by a different demon. Usually there are 14 mounds but this piece only shows the first 4.

Other sections of the piece are known in London and New York. It is written in a script called ‘hieratic’ which is a bit like informally written hieroglyphs. The Egypt Centre’s piece measures around 750 x100mm (29.5 x3.9 inches).

The Book of the Dead was a collection of spells to enable the deceased to get through the afterlife. Such spells were usually written on papyrus or linen and placed in the tomb. The Egypt Centre has two other pieces of the Book of the Dead on display.

Dr Carolyn Graves Brown, Curator said: “The Egypt Centre has several fragments of the Book of the Dead, but this one is particularly exciting because it shows the ancient Egyptian idea that the afterlife consist of a series of stages which the dead person had to go through.

“ In common with other versions, the fourth mound includes the carrying of a snake demon. Elsewhere the snake is mutilated and it is assumed that the carrying represents the capture of the snake. In our Book of the Dead the snake is held aloft by three men. In the other versions of the Book of the Dead the snake demon of the Fourth Mound is described in text as being called ‘Shooter of (two) Knives’. It lives by decapitating spirits of the dead! “

The Egypt Centre, Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, situated at the Swansea University officially opened in 1998. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturdays 10am-4.00pm and is free to the public. The collection comprises over 4500 objects largely from the pharmacist Sir Henry Wellcome collection (1853-1936). The Egyptian material largely covers the period c.100,000 B.C. - A.D. 500 in two galleries and includes jewellery dating from the time of Tutankhamun, weapons, a mummified crocodile and much, much more.

There are lots of hands on activities for children and adults alike, the most popular of which is the dummy mummy. Come and try your hand at mummification! For further information about the Egypt Centre contact 01792 295960.

Thomas Sondergard makes principal conducting debut

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We are looking forward to the FIFA World Cup Qualifier tonight between Wales and Scotland tonight, which also means that there will be no Premiership football this weekend.

We wonder whether Swansea manager Michael Laudrup will be taking advantage of the international football break to view his fellow Dane making his debut for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales tonight at St David's Hall, Cardiff.

Søndergård was named the 14th principal conductor of the BBC NOW, effective with the 2012-2013 season, for an initial contract of 4 years. He has previously been a guest conductor in Wales back in December 2009 as a temporary substitute for Thierry Fischer.

Søndergård will be tackling the Finish composer, Jean Sibelius', fifth symphony. After being named principal conductor, he said:, "I can't wait to discover the Sibelius all over again with my new orchestra".

Team SWI WC launches in Wales National Velodrome

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After the unprecedented success of Team GB at the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Welsh Cycling with support from Sport Wales and leading bike retailer Wiggle, are preparing to take Wales to the podiums at Glasgow 2014 and beyond with the launch of a new track cycling team.

World Junior Time Trial Champion, Elinor Barker will join Team SWI Welsh Cycling for the UCI Track World Cup series this winter. Double World Junior Track Championship medallist Amy Roberts will compete in the endurance events, with Ciara Horne making the trio for the Women’s Team Pursuit. Former European and National Track Champion, Jon Mould will also compete for Team SWI WC at the UCI Track World Cup series.

The Team will travel to all three rounds of the 2012 UCI Track World Cup series in Cali Colombia 11-13 October 2012; Glasgow, Scotland 16 -18 November 2012; Aguascalientes, Mexico 17 – 19 January 2013. There is also the potential for additional athletes to join the Team later in the series.

Team SWI WC will be based at Wales National Velodrome, under the watchful eye of Welsh Cycling’s Head Coach Darren Tudor.

The Wales National Velodrome was used by Olympic and paralympic. athletes to prepare for the London 2012 games. It is also part of the Newport International Sports Village, which includes squash courts, an athletics stadium, swimming pool and a skate park. For further details, and to book, contact the NCC on 01633 656757.

Autumn in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 9 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The leaves are starting to change colour from their summer green to glorious shades of red, rich ambers and yellows. It is so enjoyable to take a walk and see the beautiful changing shades of autumn (fall). Wherever you are in Wales you don’t have to go far to enjoy the colours changing on the trees in our countryside, gardens and parks.

One of Wales’s iconic autumn scenes is the 15th Century cottage that houses the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont tearooms in Llanrwst in north west Wales covered in rich red Virginia creeper. Last week the Guardian had a great double spread featuring it and the cottage has also been used as a Windows screensaver in the past. We particularly like this 2009 photo (above) taken by Steve Gill, featured in both Picasa and Flickr and we know that again this year many photographers will be heading to Llanrwst to capture it for themselves.

Other stunning autumn pictures of Wales that we like include a photo taken last year of Castle Coch in south east Wales, with the hills that surround the red castle turning to shades of amber and brown. There's a great North Wales Autumn Scene and Table Mountain in Crickhowell looks beautiful too.

Triple Sci Fi Win for Welsh Author

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 9 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh born author Jo Walton beat American horror writer Stephen King to win the 2012 British Fantasy Award for best novel. Her novel Among Others is a triple winner to date, having also won the 2011 Nebula Award for Best Novel and the 2012 Hugo Award for Best Novel.

Set in 1979/1980, Among Others takes the form of a diary written by teenager Morwenna “Mori”.

Among Others beat King’s novel 11.22.63, The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie, Cyber Circus by University of Glamorgan graduate, Kim Lakin-Smith, The Ritual by Adam Nevill and A Dance With Dragons by George RR Martin (also known as GRRM).

King Arthur and his knights regularly appear in Welsh mythology and folklore. Jo’s first book was an Arthurian fantasy called The King’s Peace, published in 2000.

Jo has won many awards to date, including John W Campbell Award for Best New Writer in 2002 and a World Fantasy Award for her novel Tooth and Claw. In 2008 she was a co-winner of the Prometheus Award and in 2010 she won the Mythopoeic Award.

Jo is a Welsh speaker, who was originally from Aberdare in the south Wales valleys, and now lives in Canada. Her books have been published in the USA, Canada, China, Japan, the Czech Republic, Spain, Germany, Holland and Australia.

Among Others is also up for a fourth award, a World Fantasy award, which will be announced at November’s World Fantasy Convention.

Acclaimed Chinese Author Visits Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 5 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As part of the ongoing legacy from the China Market Focus programme from The London Book Fair 2012 and as part of British Council's overall programme throughout 2012, several Chinese authors will travel to the UK to discuss their work with local audiences at various UK literature festivals.

With the support of British Council and Wales Arts International, one of these poets, Yu Jian, will be performing at a number of events at the inaugural North Wales International Poetry Festival. One of his key events will take place on Friday 5 October at 18.30 at the Kyffin Cafe i Bangor, giving audiences a chance to hear him read in Chinese, followed by a conversation about his life as a writer in China. He will be participating in the festival alongside a host of distinguished Welsh and international poets, with his own mother tongue connecting with many other languages.

Acclaimed Chinese Author Visits Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 5 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Yu Jian was born in 1954 in the city of Kunming, a city located on a plateau in south-west China. In 1984, he graduated from the University of Yunnan. He is a poet, writer and a director of documentary films and he is known for his fractured, powerful and politically-charged verse.

Simon Dancey, newly appointed Director, British Council Wales said:
"The China Market Focus programme was developed to illustrate the wealth and breadth of Chinese literature today and through it, the British Council aims to reflect the important themes and issues of Chinese literature from the past, while also considering what China's writing reflects about its people and the role it plays in Chinese society today."

He said: "I hope that we will not only introduce Welsh audiences to the richness and diversity of Chinese contemporary literature, but allow Ju Lian to gather ideas and inspiration from the exciting new international festival taking place in Wales."

Festival organiser Zoe Skoulding commented: "Yu Jian's engaging and experimental work will bring an important element to the festival, as will the conversation about its place in Chinese culture. It is a fascinating point of connection for Bangor, which has a growing Chinese community."

For more information please contact Suma Pugh on suma.pugh@britishcouncil.org or 0292 0924 354

Swansea University joins the EU ‘Master Class’

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 5 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea University’s College of Engineering has beaten off tough competition from across Europe to win EU funding for two prestigious international postgraduate programmes.

The Erasmus Mundus MSc in Computational Mechanics (MCM) and the Erasmus Mundus PhD in Computational Mechanics (SEED) programmes have been selected for funding by the European Commission. The MSc in Computational Mechanics programme was one of only 30 proposals out of 177 to be selected. The PhD in Computational Mechanics programme was one of only 9 proposals out of 133 to be selected.

Five cohorts (until around 2020) of MSc and PhD students of the best possible calibre will be selected and awarded EU scholarships to carry out research in the area of computational mechanics. The programmes have been established around a consortium of highly regarded European Universities within which Swansea University plays a lead role due to the international research excellence of the Civil and Computational Engineering Centre at the College of Engineering.

The Erasmus Mundus programme aims to enhance the quality of higher education and promote dialogue and understanding between people and cultures through mobility and academic cooperation. The programme provides support to higher education institutions, individual students, researchers and university staff or any organisation active in the field of higher education.

Dr Antonio Gil, Senior Lecturer and Erasmus Mundus Coordinator in the Civil and Computational Engineering Centre at Swansea University said: “We are delighted with the news that these two programmes have been awarded funding. The programmes emphasise the University’s expertise in Computational Mechanics, the links with high calibre European universities and the attractiveness of the programmes to students internationally. They are at the highest end of the spectrum for international postgraduate programmes in Europe. It cannot get any better!”

Swansea University graduate Dhrubajyoti Mukherjee, who studied on the Erasmus Mundus Masters course and achieved his MSc in Computational Mechanics said: “The course offered in Swansea University is a specialised one that exactly matched my needs and the College of Engineering is enriched with academics who are leading experts in this area. My course lasted two years. The first year involved undertaking 12 modules and in the second year I had to complete my thesis work and internship in a company where I learnt about different practices in the Industry and usage of commercial software.

“I have been offered PhD positions from several prestigious universities in the UK and America. The reputation of the College of Engineering at Swansea University in my field of research has definitely played a major role securing these positions.”

Artes Mundi

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 3 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Artes Mundi Exhibition is back at the National Museum, Cardiff from 6 October - 13 January 2013. Wales’s biggest and most exciting contemporary visual art show features the work of seven groundbreaking contemporary artists of growing international importance.

This year there were over 750 nominations, covering much of the world. The seven shortlisted artists are Miriam Bäckström (Sweden), Tania Bruguera (Cuba), Phil Collins (England), Sheela Gowda (India), Teresa Margolles (Mexico), Darius Mikšys (Lithuania) and Apolonija Šušteršic (Slovenia). Their work uses a variety of media including painting, sculpture, film installations, photography and performance.

On 29 November an international panel of judges will award one of these artists the £40,000 Artes Mundi Prize, the UK’s largest art prize and one of the most significant in the world. New this year is the opportunity for members of the public to vote for their favourite artist and artwork, with voting continuing until the end of the exhibition in January.

The National Museum is a great place to visit. It is home to one of Europe’s finest art collections on permanent display. There are over five hundred years of magnificent paintings, drawings, sculpture, silver and ceramics to see from Wales and across the world. The museum houses one of Europe's best collections of Impressionist works, donated by the Davies Sisters. What’s more entry to the museum and many of its exhibitions, include Artes Mundi, is free of charge.

European Hydrogen Road Tour 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 3 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales today hosts the European Hydrogen Road Tour on its journey through Europe. The tour is part of the ‘H2moves Scandinavia’ project which provides an extensive update on the latest developments in hydrogen fuel.

Opening the event at the Welsh Millennium Centre in Cardiff, the First Minister of Wales said:

"The hydrogen fuel cell was invented by a Welshman, Sir William Robert Grove, in 1889 - and it is therefore fitting that this important European conference is being held in Cardiff.

"The University of Glamorgan is one of the world leaders in this field. Research at the University is already underway into hydrogen vehicle propulsion systems, including fuel cell and hydrogen internal combustion engines, and Wales’ first hydrogen fuelling station was installed at the University's Hydrogen Research Centre in Baglan.

"On a Wales wide level, the Low Carbon Research Institute is bringing together universities across Wales and a number of exciting and innovative projects are underway to look at alternative fuels and renewable energy sources."

National Poetry Day Tweets

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 2 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Thursday 4 October is National Poetry Day and what a great modern way to mark the day, with Tweets of extracts from Under Milk Wood.

Follow the Dylan Thomas Centre @DTCSwansea on Twitter and get ready for tweets from Llareggub's bestloved characters. To join in the discussion use the hashtag #milkwood.

The Dylan Thomas Centre in Swansea, south west Wales has a permanent exhibition on Dylan Thomas, one Wales’ best known writers. It is also home to the Ty Llen literature programme, which puts on many literary events throughout the year, including the annual Dylan Thomas Festival. The festival takes place each year from 27 October – 9 November.

There’s a great line up again this year that will include the Stan Tracey Quintet, and launches by Menna Elfyn and Nigel Jenkins, with Internationally renowned journalist, Graham Hunter, discussing Barcelona FC and Swansea City.

Young Leaders from New Zealand Travel to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 2 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Linking Minds Scholarship is an important international award for young teachers in New Zealand who identify themselves as emerging leaders.

The theme for 2012 is professional leadership and the four scholarship winners will travel to Wales for the first two weeks of October 2012, to link up with Welsh teachers and principals, develop their leadership potential, reflect on their teaching practice and examine language immersion settings in Welsh schools.

New Zealand and Wales both share a proud history of indigenous language revival and bilingual education. So Wales is the appropriate destination for this year’s recipients of the Linking Minds Scholarship.

The teachers, Piata Allen, Nichola McCall, Stacey Reriti-Smith and Vicki Exeter, will also have the opportunity to meet with the Welsh Language Commissioner and other organisations with a language focus such as CILT Cymru and Urdd Cymru.

Nichola McCall, one of the four young leaders said:
"I want to speak to community leaders, principals and teachers in Wales and find out how they manage to get that equality between the two languages. That's something that I want to bring back here (to New Zealand), and it’s something that I'm really passionate about."

The group will visit the bilingual schools mainly during the second week of their trip and these will include: Gynradd Gymraeg Lon Las School in Swansea; Plas Coch School in Wrexham; Ysgol John Bright in Llandudno and Ysgol Treganna in Cardiff.

Simon Dancey, recently appointed Director, British Council Wales said:
“I’ve been in post for just four weeks now, and to see activity like this happening first-hand will no doubt bring the theory of our work to life for me. These teachers will have an amazing opportunity to look at parallels between the education systems of New Zealand and Wales. They’ll find out more about language immersion in Welsh schools and understand the role of the Welsh language in society as a whole. British Council prides itself on supporting links between leaders in education from across the world and this collaboration will help teachers from New Zealand further the development and implementation of Te Reo Maori (the Maori language) teaching. Perhaps they might give us some rugby tips in return!”

Ingrid Leary, Director, British Council New Zealand said:
“New Zealand and Wales share a unique interest in the revival and survival of their first languages. The opportunity to swap stories, compare approaches, and form networks makes this an invaluable exchange for those charged with empowering the next generation of first language speakers in both countries.”

The scholarship has been available since 2003 and is sponsored by the British Council, the Ministry of Education, the New Zealand Teachers Council and the NZ-UK Link Foundation. It aims to recognise and promote effective teaching by providing international experience for teachers early in their careers. The teachers who are awarded this scholarship will have opportunities to develop new knowledge, skills and confidence in their leadership capacity, both as classroom teachers and as leaders in their schools.

Ryder Cup - a view from Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 1 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It was another exciting finish at Medinah, Chicago yesterday. Again it went right to the wire with Europe coming back from the breach to win by one point thanks to Martin Kaymer.

Ryder Cup - a view from Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 1 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It brings back great memories of the 2010 Ryder Cup at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, south east Wales when the event ran into an historic fourth day for the first time in the history of the cup.

In that dramatic finale Graeme McDowell secured the winning point for Europe against blue skies and sunshine. That had not been the case all weekend though. The UK was battered with rain, hence the delayed matches and the unique Monday finish. It was testament to the drainage at the Celtic Manor course and the fantastic ground staff and organisation that the competition was able to see play at all while the weather was putting a stop to sporting events all over the UK.

On his blog John Paramor, Chief Referee of the 2010 cup said “I am delighted for all the Europeans for their success but more so for the way that Celtic Manor handled the problems and for the welcome that everyone received from the people of Wales. This will be a Ryder Cup I will never forget.”

Wales has become a go-to place for golf tourism and with in excess of 200 golf courses and unique courses such as Nevyn and District Golf Club (pictured) in north Wales and Southerndown Golf Club in south Wales, we can understand why.

This has been a fantastic summer of sport for the UK with the Olympics and Paralympics. Legacy is key. Part of the Wales Ryder Cup legacy has been the improvement of golfing facilities in Wales and establishment of Golf Development Wales. In four years time, golf will be part of the Olympics in Rio. Whether or not there will be a Welsh competitor on the GB team is yet to be seen but the boost given to golf in Wales by hosting the Ryder Cup 2010 must have improved the chances.

BAFTA Cymru

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 1 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last night the Wales Millennium Centre hosted the 21st BAFTA Cymru awards with five times nominated film Patagonia winning four BAFTAs, including best Director: fiction.

Marc Evans (House of America, Resurrection Man, My Little Eye, Snow Cake, Hunky Dory), from Carmarthen directed the film about Welsh and Argentinian people connected to "Y Wladfa," the Welsh settlement in Patagonia, Argentina. The film was shot in Wales and Patagonia. It stars Matthew Rhys, Nia Roberts and featured singer Duffy’s acting debut.

Craig Roberts won the Best Actor award for his role in the coming-of-age comedy-drama Submarine. The Swansea made film won the Best Feature/ Television film and is based on Swansea born Joe Dunthorne’s book.

Sharon Morgan (star of many film and TV programmes including Torchwood and the forthcoming Da Vinci’s Demons), won the Best Actress category, the third time she has won the award. The actress won this year’s award for her role in Resistance, which also stars fellow Welsh actor Michael Sheen OBE.

Popular sci fi programme Doctor Who had three nominations and won the Digital Creativity and Games award.

BAFTA Cymru champions film, TV and video games in Wales. For more information about film and TV in Wales see our film and TV page.

Major Indian trade delegation

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A major Indian trade delegation will be welcomed to Wales by First Minister Carwyn Jones today (Thursday 27 September).

The India-UK SME Business Meet is being held for the first time in Wales and will see high profile trade delegations from across India attend. They will be joined by senior government officials, including the Indian High Commissioner.

The event in Cardiff has been organised by the Welsh Government, the Indian High Commission and UK Trade and Invest. This year’s main focus will be collaboration in advanced manufacturing and technology, although other business sectors will also be involved.

Delegations from India include the National Small Industries Corporation, Small Industries Development Bank of India, the Engineering Promotion Council of India, the Confederation of Indian Industry and several chambers of commerce and industry.

Welsh and UK companies will use the event to identify trading partners and importers in India who they can work with to increase trade links.
The First Minister and Dr J Bhagwati, High Commissioner of India to the UK will be addressing the expected 200 business leaders.

The event builds on the First Minister’s successful trade mission to India in April.
Carwyn Jones said:

“I will be extending a warm Welsh welcome to this vital trade delegation being led by the Indian High Commission, the first time this major business event has been held here in Wales. It is great to return the welcome and hospitality I received when in India in April.

“This conference is evidence of the increasingly strong trade and economic links between our two countries. Trade between India and the UK is growing and my government wants to continue working closely with the Indian High Commission to make sure Wales is well placed to take advantage of this.

“The Indian companies and businesses here today are focussing on sectors such as IT, Healthcare, Skills Development, Financial Services, Infrastructure & Construction, Technical Education and Tourism Development, areas where Wales has a strong track record. I hope their talks with their Welsh counterparts prove fruitful for all of us.”

Indian Honorary Consul

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones has congratulated Raj Aggarwal on his appointment as Indian Honorary Consul to Wales.

The Indian High Commissioner to the UK Dr J Bhagwati made the announcement yesterday evening in Cardiff.

Raj Aggarwal is a prominent member of the Welsh-Indian business community and owns the Central Pharmacy in Cardiff and accompanied the First Minister on his trade mission to India in April.

In his new role Raj will represent the Indian Government in Wales by providing consular services, encouraging trade, education and cultural links and exchanges.
Welcoming the appointment, the First Minister said:

“Raj is not only a personal friend to me but also to Wales. He has been a tireless advocate for promoting our country as a place to invest and do business and travelled with me to India earlier this year to highlight what we have to offer to Indian companies.

“I know his appointment at Honorary Consul to Wales will be of great pride to him and I am sure he will do an excellent job.

“When I was in India I raised the issue of their government’s representation here in Wales with the Ministry of External Affairs and I am delighted with this appointment. It is further evidence of the growing links between our two nations and I hope this relationship continues to develop in such a positive way.”

Mr Aggarwal said:
“This is a special privilege that I and my family will always cherish. Wales is a dynamic small country and stronger links with the rising superpower that is India will be vital to its future prosperity. I will work tirelessly to build a deeper engagement between the two countries to which I and many Welsh people owe their allegiance.”

Da Vinci’s Demons

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Hollywood screenwriter, producer and director David S Goyer says Wales is a great filming location. He’s currently filming Da Vinci’s Demons here, with the TV show due to hit screens worldwide next year.

Actor Tom Riley will play the young Leonardo da Vinci in the show that will be a mix of history and fantasy.

In Swansea, south west Wales, an elaborate set has been built to resemble 15th century Italy. The crew have been out on location in Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot. Filming has taken place in Castle Coch and Margam Castle will feature as Medici Palace for internal shots.

Goyer, whose credits include Batman Begins, The Dark Knight and the Blade franchise sees Swansea becoming a key location, following Cardiff’s success as a place to film. He has a lot of praise for Wales, describing it as beautiful and while it has been very wet, says it is also fantastic and welcoming.

Glynneath-born TV producer Julie Gardner and Swansea-born production designer Ed Thomas (both having worked on Doctor Who and spin offs Torchwood and the Sarah Jane Adventures) were influential in bringing the series to Wales.

Wales is a popular choice for filming, not only for the stunning landscapes and many castles to film in, one of the reasons it was chosen for Da Vinci’s Demons, but for the supportive infrastructure and expertise which exists here for film makers. Many TV series and films have chosen Wales as a film location, including Snow White and the Huntsman, Clash of the Titans and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Run’s New Route

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales has seen lots of great sport so far this year and it’s set to continue. We’re looking forward to the Cardiff half marathon, now in it’s the 10th year. The run takes place on Sunday, 14 October, with a brand new route, which will encompass some of Cardiff’s most iconic locations.

This year more than 18,000 people will take part in Wales' biggest road race and thousands more will be there to cheer them on. As well as running, there’s a wheelchair race and, as always, the run is a great way to raise money for charity. The race is very popular, being a predominantly flat and fast course.

The new start and finish areas will be in the heart of Cardiff’s civic centre, with lots to see en route. The runners will start outside Cardiff Castle before heading towards the home of Cardiff City FC, the Cardiff City Stadium. The picturesque Penarth Marina and Cardiff Barrage will once again feature in the half marathon.

The race heads on through Cardiff Bay, passing the Doctor Who Experience and the Norwegian Church. The 2012 course takes in the beautiful Roath Park Lake, before runners head back to the heart of the city for the big finish at the impressive Civic Centre. We wish all the participants well.

Bell returns to Chile

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A church bell that has been kept in Neath, south west Wales, since 1870 is making it’s way home to Chile. The bell was one of several rescued from a devastating fire in a Jesuit church in Santiago in 1863.

Three of the rescued bells that had been in a church in Oystermouth, Swansea were handed back to Chile as a gift to mark the country’s 200th birthday. The handover of the bells from Oystermouth was incorporated into a national memorial for the Copiapó mining accident that had occurred in 2010.

When the Neath church heard of the return of the Oystermouth bells they realised the significance of their own bell and were delighted to arrange to return it.

At a service in the church on Monday, the Earl of Wessex received the bell on behalf of the British and Commonwealth Fire Company Foundation of Chile, of which he is an honorary member. The service was attended by the Chilean Ambassador, Tomas Muller Sproat, the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan and twenty firemen from Chile who formed a guard of honour.

European Day of Languages

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Every year on 26 September people across Europe celebrate The European Day of Languages (EDL). There are over 6000 languages spoken in the world, with a rich and diverse culture that lies behind each one. The European Day of Languages aims to celebrate this - by showing people across Europe how important languages are, and what fun learning them can be.

In Wales we speak both English and Welsh, with English spoken by almost everyone and over half a million people in Wales being Welsh speakers.

Welsh is one of Europe’s oldest languages. If you want to learn Welsh why not have a look at our language page for some basic phrases and some great websites to get you started.

Turner Paintings on Display

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

J.M.W. Turner: The Davies Collection opens from today until 20 January 2013 in the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff.

The Davies sisters donated seven Turner paintings, but for many years, there was doubt over the authenticity of three. Art experts have now confirmed that The Beacon Light, Margate Jetty and Off Margate are genuine.

The paintings will join the other Turner paintings on display, alongside other works donated by the Davies sisters, including Renoir's famous Blue Lady, La Parisienne, Monet's Rouen Cathedral, three of his Venetian views and Rodin's The Kiss.

The collection includes works by Manet and Pissarro and three of Monet's waterlilies paintings, as well as three paintings by Cézanne. The museum is also home to van Gogh's Rain at Auvers and numerous works by Millet, Daumier and Carrière.

The National Museum of Wales, Cardiff is one of seven museums in Wales. All have zero admission fee.

This week in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve been pretty quiet on wales.com this week so here a few things we may have missed telling you about.

Last Sunday (16 Sept) the 2012 Wales Rally GB ended in Cardiff Bay, with a win for Ford’s Jari Matti Latvala and Miikka Anttilla. This is the second year running the Finnish pair have won. The Rally is due to return to Wales in 2013.

At the same time further west, more than 1500 athletes from 43 countries were taking part in the Ironman Wales triathlon in Tenby, Pembrokeshire. After a swim of 2.4 miles, starting on North Beach at 07:00 BST, a 112 miles cycle ride and a 26.2 miles run, the winner was Silvain Rota from France.

The International Rugby Board (IRB) announced that Eirias, Colwyn Bay, north Wales has been chosen as a venue for the inaugural IRB International Rugby Series. The first two weekends in November will see Samoa face Canada and Russia play USA (on Friday 9 November) with Tonga v USA and Canada v Russia on Saturday 17 November. Meanwhile Samoa will have travelled south to play Wales at the Millennium Stadium on Friday 16 November.

Still on sport, Kim Bo-Kyung made his debut at Cardiff City on Tuesday with a 10 minute appearance from the bench. Since his move from Cerezo Osaka, Japan in July, the South Korean has helped his country to an Olympic Bronze medal and is now settling into his new home in the Welsh capital. Meanwhile Rob Earnshaw will go on loan to Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel for the rest of the season.

Swansea City chairman Huw Jenkins paid tribute to former Swansea City Chairman Malcolm Struel who sadly died this week. Struel was credited with steering the Swans to top flight football for the first time back in the 1980s when they led the old First Division.

This week Atlantic College at St Donat’s in the Vale of Glamorgan celebrated its 50th Anniversary. The College attracts students world-wide to study the International Baccalaureate which it helped to devise. At St Donat’s community service is an important element of the student’s experience. In Wales to celebrate the anniversary was Queen Noor of Jordan, the college’s president whose daughter graduated from the College. She said “Wales is a very special country: open, welcoming and with very rich culture and history.”

Swansea University announced a £90 million funding package towards its ambitious campus development programme. In total this ambitious programme will cost £400 million. The first phase will see the construction of the Science and Innovation Park on a 69 acre site at Jersey Marine and is due to be completed in 3 years time.

In other Welsh Universities this week we discovered that scientists from Cardiff University are leading a Nato project to try to develop a vaccine for anthrax to help in the fight against bioterrorism and in a rare Australian conifer, growing in Treborth Botanic Garden, at Bangor University, has set seed for possibly the first time in Wales.

Twitter – the popular social media site announced this week that it will soon be launched in Welsh after asking contributors to begin translating its content. As well as Welsh, other languages soon to be translated include: Irish; Tamil, Galician, Serbian, Bulgarian, Kurdish, Vietnamese, Croatian, Romanian, Latvian, Kannada, Belarusian, Bengali, Albanian and Slovak.

Desmond Tutu to visit Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones has invited Archbishop Desmond Tutu to Wales to recognise the achievements of the Welsh Government’s Wales for Africa programme.

Speaking at an International Development summit in Cardiff today (Mon 17th Sept), he announced that Archbishop Tutu will come to Wales in late October to see for himself the work of the programme which was set up in 2006.

The initiative has become a beacon for Welsh efforts to help deliver the UN Millennium Development Goals to halve global poverty by 2015. It helps individuals, groups and communities across Wales create links and get involved in projects with countries in Sub Saharan Africa.

The First Minister said:
“In the space of six years, and with a very modest budget, Wales for Africa has linked hundreds of Welsh communities with hundreds of African communities, influenced the school curriculum, supported Wales to become the world’s first Fair Trade Nation and delivered a world leading climate change project in Uganda with the UN – to name just a few achievements.

“In recognition of its many achievements I am very pleased to announce that Archbishop Desmond Tutu will be visiting Wales at the end of October. His visit is a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for the outstanding dedication of individuals and groups across Wales – most of whom are volunteers.

“It seems fitting that the man who said ‘Do your little bit of good where you are; its those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world’ is coming to recognise the efforts Wales as we do our little bit of good.

“It is an exciting time for Wales for Africa and the international development community in Wales. We want to work with people to take up the challenges and opportunities our changing world presents, and to make sure that everyone has the chance to make conscious, informed decisions about the way they want to live, and the impact they have on others both in Wales and the rest of the world.”
During his visit Archbishop Desmond Tutu will meet many of the people involved in the Wales for Africa programme.

The Tour of Britain

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Tour of Britain is taking place in Wales today, taking in some beautiful parts of the Welsh countryside. There’s a lot of excitement as world champion Mark Cavendish is taking part and big crowds are expected along the route. The crowds will look forward to seeing Welsh cyclist Luke Rowe in action too.

The race started at Powis Castle, near Welshpool this morning and is heading through mid Wales. The tour will continue into Brecon, into the Brecon Beacons and then onto Caerphilly. The cyclists will head over Caerphilly Mountain twice before finishing in the Caerphilly near the famous castle.

Olympics and Paralympics homecoming

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This summer we’ve cheered them on during the Olympics and Paralympics and they’ve brought a fantastic 22 medals back home to Wales. Now we have the chance to see Welsh Olympians and Paralympians at the homecoming event this evening outside of the Senedd, Cardiff Bay.

Torch bearers and Games makers (volunteers) have also been invited along to celebrate the games. The event will start with a concert featuring performers from the dynamic and inspiring Cultural Olympiad in Wales. There will be music from 19-year-old clarinettist and composer Lloyd Coleman, Abergavenny Borough Brass Band, the Celtic Cafe ensemble of traditional musicians and Ebbw Vale Male Choir.

This will be followed by a parade of Welsh athletes on to the steps of the Senedd with an opportunity for everyone to show support for Our Greatest team!

Olympians and Paralympians attending include Chris Bartley (Silver medal, Rowing), Olivia Breen (Bronze medal, Athletics), Mark Colbourne (Gold medal, Cycling), Aled Davies (Gold medal, Athletics), Paul Davies (Bronze medal, Table Tennis), Fred Evans (Silver medal, Boxing), Sara Head (Bronze medal, Table Tennis), Tom James (Gold medal, Rowing), Beverley Jones (Bronze medal, Athletics), Liz Johnson (Bronze medal, Swimming), Jade Jones (Gold medal, Taekwondo), Nyree Kindred (Silver medal, Swimming), Rachel Morris (Bronze medal, Cycling) and Josie Pearson (Gold medal, Athletics).

Wales Rally GB

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re enjoying superb motoring action in Wales with Britain's round of the 2012 World Rally Championship, the Wales Rally GB, currently taking place. The rally continues until Sunday (16 September).

This year's competitors include French Eight-time World Rally Champion Sébastien Loeb, Finnish rally drivers Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala and Norwegian driver Petter Solberg. The British drivers include Matthew Wilson and Scott Martin and there’s a number of Welsh drivers including Tom Cave from Gwynedd, Sara Williams, from Brecon and Pembrokeshire’s Shôn Rees.

The rally began in Llandudno in north west Wales yesterday and today Newtown has been a buzz with fans. Those in Newtown were in for a double sporting treat as the Tour of Britain took place at the same time in the mid Wales town. The rally heads to south Wales, where it will continue over the weekend.

People coming to celebrate the homecoming of the Welsh Olympians and Paralympians tonight will also have a double treat, as Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay is being used by two of the teams to repair and service the vehicles.

It’s the 12th year running the rally has come to Wales and this year there’s a new special stage at the Celtic Manor Resort, venue of 2010's Ryder Cup. On Sunday the rally takes place in Cardiff and Port Talbot before returning to the capital city and finishing in Cardiff Bay. We hope all those going will enjoy it and look forward to welcoming the rally back next year too.

Iris Prize Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The 6th Iris Prize Festival takes place in Cardiff next month. This year the Festival will run from 10-14 October, a day longer than usual.

The full programme includes new feature films and screenings of all 30 short films competing for the Iris Prize. The winner will be announced at an Awards show on 14 October.

The Iris Prize is Cardiff’s International gay and lesbian short film prize and is the only short film prize in the world which allows the winner to make a new film. Iris also offers film makers funding, support and guidance.

The festival has partner festivals around the world including in Canada, Los Angeles, New York, Dublin, London, Texas, Brazil and Hong Kong.

Elvis Festival in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

At the end of the month Elvis fans will again be putting on their blue suede shoes and heading to the south Wales coast for the annual Elvis Festival in Porthcawl.

Thousands of Elvis fans return every September to the seaside town for what’s said to be the largest Elvis event in Europe. This year there’s a World Record Attempt for the Largest Gathering of Elvis Impersonators!

This year’s events run from 28 - 30 September with over 100 shows to enjoy as well as ‘The Elvies’ – the world’s leading award show for Elvis tribute artists and a Fringe Festival too.

Some think Elvis’s family may have Welsh roots, with the name Presley possibly coming from the Preseli Mountains, Pembrokeshire. We don't know how true that is, but we do know that Elvis was friends with Welsh singer Sir Tom Jones. The singers met in the USA where Elvis sang Tom’s song “With These Hands” and the pair became firm friends.

Porthcawl is a popular seaside town for families who enjoy the sandy beach and the funfair.

Look back at London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Paralympic Games closed last night in a ceremony celebrating the power of the flame, marking the end to a wonderful 11 days of Paralympic sport. There have been so many highlights during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, it’s hard to believe it is all over.

In late April, three months before the start of the Olympic Games, giant Olympic rings were displayed in Cardiff. The Olympic torch relay in May saw thousands lining the streets throughout Wales in glorious sunshine to cheer on the torch bearers.

Look back at London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Those who came to the 11 Olympic football games held in the Welsh capital Cardiff loved the welcome, the city and the Millennium Stadium, even when the result didn’t go their team’s way. There was great praise too from those who chose Wales to train ahead of the games at pre-games training camps. We hope to see them train here again for future sporting events in the UK and Europe.

The Cultural Olympiad was also an important part of London 2012 and Wales embraced this with a diverse programme of events ahead of and during the games.

With 50 days to go to the Paralympic games the Paralympic symbol, the Agitos, were created in the sand in Rhossili Bay, the Gower, Swansea.

Look back at London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The beach also figured in the Olympics opening ceremony when Only Kids Aloud sang Cwm Rhondda in a video recorded on the beach. There were other Welsh influences in the Olympic opening ceremony created by Danny Boyle an alumnus of Bangor University, North Wales. It celebrated the history of Great Britain, including the industrial revolution and the health service founded by Welsh Politician Nye Bevan. The music for the athletes' parade and 60-second countdown to the ceremony was created and mixed by Welsh drum and bass DJ, High Contrast (real name Lincoln Barrett).

In the build-up to the Paralympic Games, Scouts lit the Paralympic flames at the four highest peaks in the UK, including Snowdon in Wales. There were celebrations in Cardiff, as Gold winning Paralympian from Beijing Simon Richardson lit the cauldron outside at City Hall against a backdrop of the Agitos, which had by now replaced the Olympic rings. In the evening war veteran Simon Weston lit the cauldron in Cardiff Bay, the climax to a musical celebration. There were community celebrations in Swansea, south west Wales and in Conwy, north Wales.

The Paralympics opening ceremony saw Wales’s most successful female paralympian, Dame Tani Grey Thompson, fly across the stadium in a racing chair while soprano Elin Manahan Thomas from Swansea sang Handel’s Eternal Source of Light Divine. Later a third Welsh woman, swimmer Liz Johnson read the athletes’oath. At the Paralympic closing ceremony twenty year old Lloyd Coleman from Bridgend, played clarinet in the British Paraorchestra, accompanying Coldplay.

Look back at London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

All this before we even mention the contribution Welsh competitors made to Team GB and Paralympic GB. The sporting action was great to see and we cheered on a record breaking number of Welsh competitors at the Olympic and Paralympic games. In total, there were 7 medals won by Welsh competitors at the Olympic Games, with Jade Jones becoming Britain’s first ever Taekwondo Olympic champion. In the Paralympic Games the 15 medals won by Welsh competitors included Paralympic GB’s first medal of the games won by Mark Colbourne for Men’s C1 Individual Pursuit in cycling.

Inevitably there were some who suffered disappointments along the way. That is the nature of sport. We just want everyone to know, them especially, how proud Wales is of all our Welsh sportsmen and women and the people behind them.

Look back at London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

For many of the competitors it was their first games and we look forward to seeing them again in the future competitions, including the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and in Olympic and Paralympic games in Rio in 2016.

For gold medal winners there was a Royal Mail Stamp each and post boxes changed from their normal pillar box red to gold. There are gold post boxes throughout Wales, with three in south east Wales: for Geraint Thomas (Cardiff), Aled Davies (Bridgend) and Mark Colbourne (Tredegar). There are two post boxes in north east Wales, for Jade Jones (Flint) and for Tom James (Wrexham). In Swansea a post box was painted for Ellie Simmonds, who trains in Wales and today, a post box is being painted in Hay on Wye in mid Wales for Jodie Pearson.

The celebrations aren’t quite over yet, in London there’s the victory parade today, with many of the Olympic and Paralympic competitors taking part. There will be celebrations across the country, including the home coming celebrations on Friday evening on the steps of the Senedd in Cardiff Bay. 2012 will be a year to remember for a long time to come.

Unique Confucius Institute for Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The first Confucius Institute anywhere in the world to have a focus on Law, is being opened officially at Bangor University.

The Confucius Institute is being launched by First Minister Carwyn Jones, in the presence of Mr SHEN Yang, Minister-Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy.

A delegation from Bangor University's partner institution, the China University of Political Science & Law, led by its President, Professor HUANG Jin will visit Bangor especially for the opening ceremony. The event will include performances of Chinese folk song and dance by Yuannan University of Nationalities, calligraphy performance by Professor SUN He of the China University of Political Science & Law, a well-known calligrapher in China, and a special performance by the renowned Male Voice Choir, Hogia'r Ddwylan.

For more information see Bangor University's website.

Shane Williams Portrait

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A painting of Welsh rugby legend Shane Williams is to join the art collection at The National Library of Wales.

Renowned Welsh portrait artist David Griffiths, who has depicted many of the UK's public figures during his 40-year career, painted the sportsman earlier this year.

The painting will now join other Griffiths portraits of eminent Welsh figures in the Aberystwyth-based National Library collection.

Shane Williams (35), who enjoyed a long and successful career as a wing for the Welsh team and the Ospreys, is the record try scorer for his country. He was selected as the IRB International Player of the Year in 2008 and has been described as one of the most exciting wingers in the world. He retired from international rugby earlier this year. During this year's National Eisteddfod at the Vale of Glamorgan he was honoured for his contribution to national life with a blue robe.

The artist David Griffiths was brought up in Pwllheli and became famous for his painting of the Prince of Wales receiving the freedom of the city of Cardiff in the year of the Investiture, 1969.

David said: "I am very interested in excellence and Shane, like other public figures I have painted, has excelled in his field - he is an iconic sportsman."

The portrait, which was painted in oils and depicts Shane wearing his kit for his last international match - against Australia in December - including his "Bye Bye" boots.

Cliff Diving World Series

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This weekend the Cliff Diving World Series makes it's debut in Wales. The 6th of 7 stages in the series takes place in Pembrokeshire, at the Blue Lagoon, in Abereiddy near St David's. This is the first time a stage has been held in the UK and they couldn't have chosen a better place for the sell-out event than the home of coasteering.

Practice dives are already underway with the divers gearing up for the main competition tomorrow, 8 September. After dives this year in Australia, France, Norway, Poland and Ireland, Wales is the penultimate stop before the competition concludes in Oman on 27 September.

4 Nations Para-Badminton Championships

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 7 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Everybody is buzzing about the Paralympics, which sadly come to an end this weekend. London 2012 has seen the profile of Disability sport at an unprecedented level and the intention that these Games should inspire a generation certainly seems to have a future.

One sport which does not currently feature at the Paralympics is Para-Badminton, although supporters are hopeful that it will be included by 2020. This weekend though sees the best GB Para-Badminton athletes descend on the Cardiff, the Capital City of Wales, where the Welsh 4 Nations Para-Badminton Championships.

For a sport you haven't had chance to see in London, the Sport Wales National Centre is the place to be this weekend.

Roald Dahl Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 6 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It’s only a week to go until Roald Dahl Day. Every year on 13 September celebrations take place across the world to mark the famous writer’s birthday.

This year it’s the BFG (Big Friendly Giant to those who haven’t yet read the story)’s 30 birthday too. To celebrate fans are invited to dream big, think big, win big, hear big, see big and dress up big!

Why not Think Big and download the whizzpopping party pack that contains lots of Big Fun Giant resources and activities to celebrate Roald Dahl Day and the BFG at home, in the classroom or library.

Why not Dress up Big on the Dahlicious Dress-Up Day on Friday 28 September, and raise money to help seriously ill and disabled children.

Roald was born on 13 September 1916 in Wales to Norwegian parents, and in 2002 the former Oval Basin in Cardiff Bay was renamed the Roald Dahl Plass in memory of the popular author. His much loved books include James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda. The books remain ever popular worldwide, with several being made into films.

Magnificent Seven

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 3 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

What a great start to the Paralympic games, with our Welsh Paralympic competitors gaining seven medals to date.

On Thursday it was a great first day of sporting action, with Para-cyclist Mark Colbourne gaining a Silver medal in the men's Cycling Track - the first ParalympicGB medal of the games for a Welsh competitor. This was followed by more medal success with swimmer Nyree Kindred MBE winning a Silver medal for the women's 100m Backstroke S6.

On the second day of competing Aled Davies gained a Bronze medal in the F42/F44 Shot put. It was a Gold medal and a new World Record, for Mark Colbourne, who won the men's Individual Pursuit C1: our first Gold of the games.

The sporting success continued over the weekend with a Bronze medal for Claire Williams in the F12 Discus. It was a second medal of the games for Aled Davies with a Gold medal and new European record in the F42/44 Discus. The noise in the stadium was extreme as Aled did a lap of honour.

The gold medal wins means gold postboxes for Mark and Aled, with one in Mark’s home town in Tredegar in the Welsh Valleys and one in Aled’s home town of Bridgend, as well as a first class stamps for the winning pair.

Today’s the medal success continues, already we have another medal, with Table tennis player Paul Davies gaining a Bronze in the class 1 singles.

But medals or not its hugely inspiring to see the contribution of all our Welsh competitors to Paralympics GB.

Sporting September

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout the year, there’s lots of great sporting action in Wales. We thought we’d give a flavour of what’s coming up in the sporting calendar this September.

The UK round of the award-winning Extreme Sailing Series as Act 5 of the event takes place in Cardiff Bay from 30 August until 2 September. It's the only UK leg on the 2012 global tour and provides a chance to see Olympic Silver medalist Hannah Mills, who will be racing for Team Wales. The event is part of the Cardiff Harbour Festival (31 August 2012 - 2 September).

Another action packed event is the Wales Rally GB, in Cardiff on 13-16 September. On Sunday 16 September the Ironman Wales takes place in stunning Pembrokeshire, with contestants swimming, cycling and running their way to victory. In north west Wales, on the same day, the Anglesey Sandman Triathlon takes place.

For Swansea City football fans there’s a home game on Saturday against Sunderland and another home game on 22 September when the Swans play Everton.

Cardiff City home matches are played on Sunday (2 September) against the Wolves. They take on Leeds on 15 September and Blackpool on 29 September. All home matches are now being televised live to Malaysia and other countries in South East Asia.

First day of Paralympic Games

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Paralympic games have begun, with a spectacular ceremony last night watched across the globe. There were so many highlights, including seeing the athletes and fantastic performers, including former Paralympian The Baroness Tanni Grey-Thomson DBE and watching Beijing gold medallist Liz Johnson taking the athletes’ oath.

Today the sporting action has already begun and what a great start for Nyree Kindred with a Paralympic record in her heat of the Women’s S6 class 100m Backstroke. We look forward to seeing the final later today.

Good luck to all those playing today. To find out more about the 38 Welsh competitors taking part see our Welsh Paralympic Competitors page.

Be sure to check our medals pages throughout the games, as we will be updating them with Welsh medal winners. Royal Mint in Llantristant south east Wales made all the medals, so it will be great to see some coming back to Wales.

We’ll be looking out too for those who trained in Wales and wish all the competitors well.

Photo ©London2012

Wales becomes a top gastro-tourism destination

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

An interesting article from yesterday’s Guardian about Welsh food.

It won’t be long until the Abergavenny food festival and before that there’s the Welsh food festival in mid Wales and the St Fagans Food Festival in Cardiff, south east Wales and lots more in September and beyond.

Welsh Music Prize Shortlist

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Good to find out who is on this year’s Welsh Music Prize shortlist and once again it’s going to be difficult to tell which of the talented Welsh acts will win. The list this year includes Cardiff bands Kids in Glass Houses and Future of the Left, and Cowbois Rhos Botonwg from north west Wales.

Gruff Rhys, frontman of the Super Furry Animals, beat off stiff competition from the Manic Street Preachers, Funeral for A Friend and other great acts to win the first Welsh Music Prize last year.

The brainchild of Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens and festival promoter/music industry expert John Rostron, the prize celebrates diversity in music. It features a host of genres featured including indie, rock, electro-pop and experimental music.

The prize goes to the best album of the past year created by a Welsh-born or Wales-based act. We have to wait until 18 October on the opening night of Swn Festival 2012, in Cardiff to find out who the winner is.

The Swn festival is in its sixth year and what a fantastic line up once again, with Welsh Music Prize shortlisted bands Islet and Exit_International featuring as well Gallows, Django Django, Charlotte Church, A Girl Called Ruth and many more.

Held at a host of venues in the capital city including 10 Feet Tall, Chapter Arts Centre, Clwb Ifor Bach, the National Museum Cardiff and Cardiff University Students’ Union, the event is one to look forward to.

For more about Welsh music see our music page.

Welsh Music Prize Full short list:
Bright Light Bright Light – Make Me Believe in Hope
Cate Le Bon – CYRK
Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog – Draw Dros Y Mynydd
Exit_International – Black Junk
Future of the Left – The Plot Against Common Sense
Huw M. – Gathering Dusk
Islet – Illuminated People
Jodie Marie – Mountain Echo
Kids in Glass Houses – In Gold Blood
Kutosis – Fanatical Love
Los Campesinos! – Hello Sadness
Truckers of Husk – Accelerated Learning

Good luck to Welsh Paralympians

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Welsh Government has wished Welsh athletes representing ParalympicsGB the best of luck as the London 2012 Paralympic Games begin.

The opening ceremony marks the official start of the 14th Paralympic Games.

First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

"Wales can be immensely proud that a record 38 Welsh athletes have made it into the ParalympicsGB squad and I am sure all of the country will be united behind them as they go for gold.

"Our current generation of Paralympians hold huge potential. They have proved they are have what it takes to make it to the top of their field and will now be competing at the height of their sport in front of the world. I am sure they will do Wales proud and I wish them the best of luck."

Sports Minister Huw Lewis said:

"Our Welsh Paralympians have put in years of effort to make the grade for these Games and I have no doubt they will return home with medals.

"The fact we have 38 athletes in the squad, half of them first time Paralympians, shows just how strong disability sport in Wales currently is. It is testament to the clubs, coaches and support staff across the country who continue to promote and grow disability sports that we are building on our amazing track record in producing world class Paralympians.

"I am sure everyone in Wales will wish our athletes every success in London."

Who? When?

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re looking forward to Doctor Who returning to our screens and it’s good to know it won’t be that long either. We’ve heard it will be on in both the UK and USA this Saturday 1 September.

The popular show has been made in Wales since writer and executive producer Russell T Davies from Swansea, South West Wales brought it back to our screens. Did you know that the original Daleks were created by Cardiff born Terry Nation and designed by Merthyr born Bill Roberts?

The Doctor Who Experience in Cardiff Bay is a must visit for fans, with the chance to fly in TARDIS, see exclusive film clips and lots of props.

We love watching the show, not just for the time travelling and the monsters, but for a bit of "Wales spotting" too! It’s one of the many TV shows and films to be filmed here. Many shows including hit comedy Gavin and Stacey and Ruth Jones’ latest comedy Stella have been filmed in Wales. It's the choice for many Hollywood and Bollywood movies too.

Indian Discus Athletes train in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Two members of the Indian Paralympic team are training in Wales ahead of the Paralympic Games.

Discus throwers Jaideep Singh Deswal and Amit Kumar Saroha, who are being trained by Naval Singh, are preparing for the games by training at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Anthony Hughes, Disability Sport Wales National Performance Manager and Coach of the Year has been providing coaching and equipment. Anthony has offered 'remote coaching' to the athlete since the Delhi Commonwealth Games in 2010, working through Disability Sport Wales.

We wish both the athletes well in the Paralympic Games, which take place from 29 August to 9 September.

Swansea City’s Second Premier Season

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea City had a good start to their second season in the Premier Division last Saturday, with a 5-0 win at an away match at QPR. This Saturday sees their first home game at the Liberty Stadium against West Ham United.

We look forward to welcoming back to Wales the many visitors who discovered the Swansea Bay area last season. By following their teams to the Liberty Stadium they’ve discovered the delights of the wider south west Wales area.

2012 marks Swansea City’s centenary year, with their first ever match played on 7 September 1912. The club, then called The Swansea Town Soccer Club, drew 1-1 with Cardiff City. An interactive website to mark the club’s 100 years details this match and many other memorable matches.

The website is part of the Swans100 project to commemorate the Swans’ centenary in 2012 and is a partnership between Swansea University and the Swansea City Supporters’ Trust. The project is establishing an online archive, consisting of fans’ memories, photographs and other historic documents and gives a voice to football supporters. It will explore and celebrate the relationship between Swansea City and the community and create a permanent record for future generations.

Welsh Flame created at top of Snowdon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Chair of London 2012 Organising Committee Seb Coe said: ‘By creating the four Flames through human endeavour at the four highest peaks in the UK we will ensure that the spirit of each home nation is represented in the Paralympic Flame.’

Ellie Hamilton-Hunter, from Old Colwyn, one of the Scouts that climbed Snowdon to light the Welsh National Flame said 'I hardly slept last night because I was so excited. It was amazing to be part of the group which lit the Flame, it's part of history now and I'm very proud.'

Welsh Flame created at top of Snowdon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

At dawn today (Wednesday 22 August), four groups of Scouts and mountaineers climbed the highest peaks of Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland and used traditional techniques to kindle flames that will be united to form the London 2012 Paralympic Flame.

Groups of disabled and non-disabled Scouts ascended, Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa (Wales), Scafell Pike (England), Ben Nevis (Scotland) and Slieve Donard (Northern Ireland) where they rubbing flint to create sparks and kindle a flame.

Welsh Flame created at top of Snowdon

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Flames will then be transferred to each nation’s capital city where they will become the focus for a day of Paralympic celebrations.

People are encouraged to come along to National Flame Festivals and show their support for the Paralympic Torch Relay and the forthcoming Paralympic Games, and to enjoy plenty of activities and entertainment. The Cardiff event is to be held on Bank Holiday Monday, 27 August.

There will also be community celebrations in Swansea on Monday and in Conwy on Tuesday.

Photos from London 2012 website.

Paralympic Pre Games Training

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Great video of the Australian Paralympic team outside Cardiff’s City Hall, where the Agitos have replaced the Olympic rings.

Talking about their time training in Cardiff are triple Gold medallist Evan O’Hanlon, World record javelin thrower and Beijing silver medallist in the discus Kath Proudfoot and Sprinter Scott Reardon, who is also a World champion in water skiing.

The team have been in Cardiff Castle today for a special ceremony, where the honour of flag bearer was bestowed upon Wheelchair rugby player and four-time Paralympian Greg Smith. Greg will carry the Australian flag into the London 2012 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony on 29 August.

The Oceania Paralympic Committee, who also visited Cardiff Castle recently (pictured above), are also preparing for the games by training in Cardiff. Newsletters on their website give an insight into their preparation as they train at the Cardiff International Sports Stadium.

Other teams training in Wales are the Korean Paralympic Committee, Liberia Paralympic Team and National Paralympic Committee of China, all training in Cardiff, the Mexico and New Zealand Paralympic Team, who are training in Swansea and the US Paralympic Cycling Team are who are training in Newport.

Unique Open Doors Events

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In September many buildings in Wales not normally accessible to the public will be throwing open their doors to visitors.

The Open Doors Days is part of the European Heritage Days and offers a variety of unique opportunities.

This year’s events include a visit to Gladstone's Library in Hawarden, north east Wales, the unique residential library and meeting place is Britain's only Prime Ministerial Library.

In Swansea, south west Wales there’s a unique opportunity to meet the faces behind the microphone at Wales' first commercial radio station, or head to south east Wales to visit the only thermal spring in Wales in Taffs Well.

Castles featured on the open door list this year include Penrhyn Castle, Bangor, Chirk Castle in Wrexham and Oystermouth Castle in Swansea.

There’s museums, such as Monmouth Museum and Llandudno Museum, or visit many history rich churches, such as St Eloy, Llandeloy, a rare example of a surviving Arts and Crafts design by John Coates-Carter or St Marks, Brithdir, one of the very few art nouveau churches in Wales.

Plus guided walks including Ruperra Castle, Margam Country Park and the Richard Price Walk, the man who is said to have triggered the historical Boston Tea Party.

For more details about individual opportunities and dates visit the Open Doors website.

Wiggo in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bradley Wiggins, fresh from his Tour de France and Olympic victories has confirmed he will be competing in the Tour of Britain.

The Welsh leg of the tour starts in Welshpool and finishes at Caerphilly on Friday 14 September.

You may not be an Olympic medalist but you can still enjoy cycling in Wales.

First Minister's message for Eid ul Fitr

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sun, 19 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones has sent his best wishes to all Muslims as they celebrate Eid.

The First Minister Carwyn said:

"Eid al-Fitr, known as the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast, marks the start of a three-day feast and is a time of celebration for Muslims.

"We can all be proud that Wales is a nation with a strong record of embracing different cultures and communities where we live in peace together.

"I would like to send my warmest wishes to Muslims in Wales and across the world who will be coming together to mark the end of a month of fasting and prayer.

"I would like to wish all who are celebrating, 'Eid Mubarak'."

Scott of the Antarctic’s Ship Found

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Terra Nova has been discovered by US researchers. The ship, which sank 70 years ago off the coast of Greenland, has been found using hi tech equipment.

The ship is famous for having transported Captain Scott’s ill-fated expedition to the South Pole. The Terra Nova set sail from Cardiff on 15 June 1910. Scott and his team reached the South Pole on 17 January 1912, only to discover that a Norwegian team led by Roald Amundsen had preceded them by 33 days. Scott's entire party died on the return journey from the pole.

After the expedition, the former owners repurchased the ship and it was then used for a variety of purposes. It was badly damaged by ice in 1943, when the 24 crew members were rescued by the US Coastguard and the ship sank off the Southern coast of Greenland.

Memorials to Scott in Cardiff include a lighthouse on Roath Park Lake, constructed in 1915 to commemorate the ill-fated voyage. There is a scale model of the Terra Nova ship on the weather vane.

Other memorials are a bronze plaque of Captain Scott on the stairway in Cardiff’s City Hall (pictured) and in June 2003 a commemorative sculpture was unveiled in Cardiff Bay. Cardiff-based artist Jonathan Williams created the sculpture, a 3-metre tall mosaic inspired by Barcelona’s modernist architect Gaudi.

Earlier this year a painting of the ship leaving Cardiff Docks was bought by the Cardiff Story museum. The museum is well worth a visit. It has an interactive permanent display about the making of Cardiff.

Agitos unveiled in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Agitos, the symbols of the Paralympic Games have been unveiled in Cardiff outside City Hall.

The Agitos, which replace the giant Olympic rings, are the first of five sets of giant Paralympic Agitos to launch in the UK.

Members of the Australian Paralympic and New Guinea Paralympic teams, who are training in Cardiff, celebrated the launch, along with members from Cardiff Celts Wheelchair Basketball team.

Paralympic teams welcomed to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Paralympic teams from five different continents who have chosen to base themselves in Wales ahead of the 2012 Paralympic Games were welcomed by the First Minister Carwyn Jones at a special event last night (Thurs 16 August).

Athletes and support staff attended the reception at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay. The London 2012 Paralympic Games officially begin on the 29 August and a number of national teams have opted to use locations across Wales as their training base before the action starts.

Teams based in Wales include New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, China, British Cycling, US Cycling, Liberia, India and the Oceanic Paralympic Committee.

Paralympic teams welcomed to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Meanwhile, Madeleine Hogan, a world leading F46 javelin competitor from Victoria, Australia, and a strong contender for a medal, is training in Cardiff. Madeleine spoke about the facilities, which she said are fantastic and how she thinks Wales is a beautiful country. If she has the time she would like to visit some castles during her stay.

Paralympic teams welcomed to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Casper Pule is the Chef de Mission of the Soloman Islands Paralympic Team, he thinks that despite the weather, Wales is a beautiful country. He has found the people very welcoming. His team are training in Cardiff and he describes the training facilities as excellent.

Paralympic teams welcomed to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Finally, Duane Kale is the Chef de Mission of Paralympics New Zealand whose team is training in Swansea. He expressed his complements on the warm Welsh welcome that the team have received. He said that this reinforces the close ties that New Zealand has with Wales.

We hope to welcome the teams back to Wales in the future.

Paralympic teams welcomed to Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The First Minister said:
“The Paralympics are a truly inspirational event where individuals have overcome huge adversity to reach the top of their sport and represent their country at the highest level.

“It is great that in the build up to the Paralympic Games Wales is playing host to a number of national teams from across the globe. Teams have chosen Wales as their temporary home because we can offer a range of world class sporting facilities and the relevant knowledge and expertise in delivering for Paralympic athletes.

“The presence of the teams also provides an opportunity to develop sporting, educational and cultural links between our countries. I wish all of them the best of luck.”

We had the opportunity to speak to some of the athletes at the reception. Francisco Vergara of the Mexican Paralympic Committee, who arrived last Sunday and are training at Swansea University, said that he’s very impressed with Wales. He says it has beautiful scenery and the training facilities have provided everything they need. He spoke about the Welsh people being very friendly, and he hopes to return to Wales soon.

Paralympic Flame to go to new heights

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With two weeks to go to the Paralympic Games, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) has today announced how the Paralympic Flame will be created.

On Wednesday 22 August, using a combination of teamwork and human endeavour, National Flames will be created at the summit of the highest peaks of the four home nations: Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa (Wales), Scafell Pike (England), Ben Nevis (Scotland) and Slieve Donard (Northern Ireland).

Groups of disabled and non-disabled Scouts will ascend the mountains, and at the top they will use the traditional technique of rubbing flint together to create sparks and kindle a flame.The four individual Flames will then be placed in a miner’s lantern and transferred to the nation’s capital cities where they will each become the focus for a day of Paralympic celebrations.

From here the four National Flames will be taken to Stoke Mandeville, spiritual home of the Paralympic movement, where they will be united during a special ceremony on Tuesday 28 August to create the London 2012 Paralympic Flame.

Sebastian Coe, Chair of LOCOG, said: “We have created a unique identity for the Paralympic Torch Relay which will be a celebration of courage, determination, inspiration and equality that every Paralympian represents. By creating the four Flames through human endeavour at the four highest peaks in the UK we will ensure that the spirit of each home nation is represented in the Paralympic Flame. Today we invite people to show their support for the Paralympic Torch Relay. Whether it’s taking lanterns along to a Flame Festival or Celebration, supporting a Torchbearer or getting together to line the route of the 24 hour relay and help us light the way to the Paralympic Games.”

Each of the four capital cities will host events for people to get involved with the London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay.

In Cardiff – Monday 27 August – Cardiff

Welsh Flame to light ceremonial cauldron outside City Hall
Visits to Rockwood Hospital, House of Sport Coaching Academy and the Live Site
Flame Festival including lantern procession in Roald Dahl Place. This is a free unticketed event.

Welcome to Paralympic Teams

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It’s been a fantastic couple of weeks of sport, but the Olympics Games is now over. On Friday there was a Silver in Sailing for Hannah Mills and her partner Saskia Clark in the 470 Class. Also on Friday Team GB's Women's Hockey team, that included Welsh born Sarah Thomas on the squad, gained a Bronze medal.

One of the highlights of the last day was Fred Evans winning a Silver medal in Welterweight Boxing, the highest Olympic medal for Boxing that Wales has won to date.

Fred’s win brings the medal tally to seven for Wales, with three Golds, two Silvers and one Bronze being won in the games, the most successful games for over 100 years.

We now look forward to more great sport at the Paralympic Games, which take place from 29 August until 9 September. There will be 38 Welsh competitors taking part in the Paralympic Games.

We welcome Paralympic teams as they train in Wales ahead of the Paralympic Games. We hope all they enjoy their stay in Wales, with great sporting facilities. Teams include Australia, China, New Zealand and the Oceanic islands.

Millennium Medal Match

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff sees the last of its Olympic Football tonight with the men’s Bronze Medal match at the Millennium Stadium between South Korea and Japan.

Over the past couple of weeks fans of Team GB, New Zealand, Cameroon, Brazil, Egypt, Japan, South Africa, Mexico, Switzerland, Uruguay and South Korea have all been in Wales cheering their teams on and invariably, win or loose, they’ve enjoyed the warm Welsh welcome.

They’ve been impressed by the stadium which has seen some great Olympic action and excited crowds. They’ve told us they’ve enjoyed the city centre venue for it’s closeness to the many shops, pubs and restaurants in the city centre, we hope they've all had a great time.

The Millennium stadium hosts many sporting events throughout the year, including the Six nations rugby internationals games. The next big event at the stadium is the Speedway Grand Prix on 25 August.

The city centre venue is also used as a concert venue with many big names including Madonna, the Rolling Stones and Welsh band the Stereophonics.

First Taekwondo Gold

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales has given Great Britain its first Gold medal at Taekwondo, with a win by 19 year old Jade Jones from Flint, north east Wales.

Last night Jade, who is known as the “headhunter”, beat China’s world champion Yuzhuo Hou to win the gold medal. She is the youngest person so far in the London 2012 games to win gold and is the youngest ever from Wales. The celebrations to mark her achievement include a gold postbox and a Royal Mail postage stamp.

The London 2012 Games close on Sunday but there’s still lots of great sporting action before then. Today Hannah Mills and her partner Saskia Clark will find out which medal they have in the 470 sailing event, they are guaranteed to win a medal, as is Boxer Fred Evans, who competes in the semi finals tonight. Frankie Jones put on a beautiful display yesterday in Rhythmic Gymnastics and continues to compete today. In Hockey Team GB, which includes Welsh born Sarah Thomas, compete today for the bronze medal.

Jade’s medal is the third gold for Welsh competitors in the London 2012 Olympic Games and we have a guaranteed 6 medals tally in the games to date, bettering the Beijing Olympics already.

Music for Everyone

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 9 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve had some great music festivals this summer already and there’s even more to look forward to. This weekend Brecon will be filled with the sound of fantastic jazz music, as the Brecon Jazz Festival takes place from 10 – 12 August.

There’s much of a Twitter about the Green Man Festival too, with the Hay on Wye event taking place the following weekend (17-19 August).

Also proving popular is Merthyr Rock that takes place on 31 August - 2 September with great acts including Razorlight, Skindred and the Welsh rock band from Cardiff, Kids in Glass Houses.

Enjoy the beautiful garden, some great music and poetry at the National Botanic Garden on 26-27 August, the Celtic WomenFest 2012 has over 50 acts, including Amy Wadge and Jen Wilson.

Part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, the African Express train comes to Cardiff University on 6 September with African and Western musicians including Amadou & Mariam, Damon Albarn and Rokia Traoré.

On Saturday 8 September the BBC National Orchestra of Wales will be in Caerphilly Castle, south east Wales for Proms in the Park, a magical evening of music under the stars with popular arias, orchestral favourites and sing-a-long numbers.

In North Wales its Festival no. 6, in Portmeirion from 14- 16 September, where there’ll be great music, art and culture, not forgetting fab food and drink. There’s great live music and comedy too from a host of acts including New Order, Primal Scream, Gruff Rhys and Phill Jupitus.

The North Wales International Music Festival is another one to look forward to, from 22- 29 September, the classical music event celebrates its 40th anniversary, with Royal harpist Hannah Stone and many more great musicians.

The Swn festival has a great line up including Charlotte Church, Faye, Gallows and Django Django. The festival takes place from 18 – 21 October at a variety of venues throughout Cardiff. At the time of the Swn festival, the Welsh Music Prize takes place. Last year the Manic Street Preachers, Joy Formidable, Lleuwen and Stagga were on the short list and the prize was won by Gruff Rhys.

Welsh National Anthem App

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 7 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Want to learn how to sing our wonderful National Anthem? There’s a new mobile app that can do just that.

The Dragon Songs app was launched today at the National Eisteddfod of Wales by Jill Evans, Member of the European Parliament, who is a Welsh learner.

The Dragon Songs app provides the most comprehensive toolkit on the app market for anyone interested in learning the Anthem including:

Gwenno Dafydd singing the Anthem with Harri Davies accompanying on the piano.
Harri Davies separate piano accompaniment.
Harri Davies playing a fresh new acoustic guitar accompaniment
A phonetic translation to assist pronunciation.
A subtitled video ‘talk through’ by Gwenno Dafydd

The Dragon Songs app is on the App Store to download at the promotional price of 69 pence for the duration of the Eisteddfod (ends 11 August).

The vocalist Gwenno Dafydd is a performer extremely experienced in singing the National Anthem, including at the Welsh Athletics Championships and the Commonwealth Games Trials.

18 year old Harri has already gone through to the final round of the ‘Cardiff Music Festival’ - Singer / Songwriter Competition, performed as a soloist on the stage of Saint David’s Hall in the 2011 Remembrance Concert and recently on the Glanfa Stage in the Millennium Centre.

Three Medals for Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 6 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

What a great sporting week it was, for such a small nation Team GB has done so well! With all of the Olympic medals being made in Wales at the Royal Mint, we’re pleased to see some coming home.

Amongst the medal winners was Wrexham born Rower Chris Bartley who bagged the first Welsh medal. The Lightweight Men's Four gained a silver in a nail biting race.

This was followed by a gold medal from Cyclist Geraint Thomas and a second gold for Wales from Rower Tom James MBE. Postboxes have been painted gold to celebrate the success, with one in Cardiff for Geraint and in Wrexham for Tom.

Great efforts by all our competitors, well done to all of you and much to look forward to for the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

There is still much to play for in London 2012. We look forward to seeing how Dai Greene and Sarah Thomas do today.

For more information on Welsh Competitors see our webpage and for news on how they are doing see the Sports Wales news.

Hungry?

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales is increasingly known for the award winning quality of our food and drink and hardly a weekend goes by without a food festival somewhere. Here’s a selection of events taking place over the coming months.

A great family day out in Pontypridd at the Big Welsh Bite, running from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 August.

Enjoy the beautiful west Wales countryside and try some great produce at the Cardigan's River & Food Festival on Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 August.

In north west Wales it's the Anglesey Beer Festival on 12 and 13 August.

On 18 August the Sea 2 Shore Festival takes place in Aberystwyth, with seafood cookery, lots of great food and demonstrations by anglers.

Visitors to the Brecon Beacons will enjoy the annual Summer Fayre, this year held on 23 - 25 August, with over 70-trade stands of delicious Welsh food, as well as arts, craft, children’s activities and live entertainment.

Head to West Wales for the Swansea Bay Beer Festival, 23 - 25 August, or to Haverfordwest Beer, Cider, Perry & Local Produce Festival on 25 and 26 August.

For the three days of the August Bank holiday (25 - 27 August) people in Swansea, West Wales will enjoy Welsh Menu live, with delicious food and lots going on including chef demonstrations, hands on sessions for children and adults and great entertainment.

On 1 and 2 September in mid Wales it’s a Welsh Food Festival at Glansevern Hall Gardens.

In Cardiff, south east Wales, it's the St Fagans Food Festival, 8 and 9 September at the largest outdoor museum in Europe.

The coast is the place to be for the Aberystwyth Food & Drink, as the university town plays host to the event on Saturday 15 September.

Head to Abergavenny for a great food festival on 15-16 September, a top ten hit on the Independent’s 10 Best food festivals. The popular event will feature top names including 3 Michelin star chef Pierre Koffmann.

Love real Ale? Then go to the Llanbedr Beer Festival, Snowdonia on 21 - 22 September for a lively time with live music.

If cheese is more your thing, the Great British Cheese Festival offers 400 cheeses and a great setting, Cardiff Castle on 22-23 September, right in the centre of the capital city. Don’t just take our word for it, the popular event was voted number 2 in the Independent’s 10 Best food festivals.

There's lots on that weekend around Wales, including the Mold Food Festival in the Flintshire town in North Wales and in the rural heart of Pembrokeshire, West Wales the Narberth Food Festival takes place.

The popular Feastival, Wales’ Alternative Food Festival is back in Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan on 28 – 29 September, with Welsh food artist Nathan Wyburn creating his amazing marmite on toast images that wowed Britain's Got Talent judges.

In south east Wales it's the Newport Food Festival on 6 October, which proved very popular last year.

Home town of Katherine Jenkins, Neath hosts a Food and Drink Festival on Friday 5 and Saturday 6 October. Or head to the beautiful Brecon Beacons for their food festival on 6 October.

Enjoy great Welsh music and delicious Welsh food in north west Wales at the Anglesey Oyster and Welsh Produce Festival on 13 and 14 October. In south west Wales, the seaside town that Catherine Zeta Jones hails from, enjoy great seafood at the Mumbles Oyster Fair on 19 October 2012 to 20 October 2012.

Cider lovers will enjoy the Gower Cider Weekend on 13 - 14 October and then the Mid Wales Cider Festival on 26 - 28 October

North Wales has some great events too, with the north east Wales town of Llangollen hosting a Food and Drink Festival on 20 and 21 October. We end the month with the Gwledd Conwy Feast on 27 and 28 October, held within the medieval walled town of Conwy, a world heritage site, the castle and walls date back to Edward I. At the same time in south east Wales the Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival takes place in the pretty Vale of Glamorgan town.

On 24 November the second hand book capital of the world hosts the Hay Winter Food Festival or head to the Royal Welsh Showground for their Winter fair on 26 to 27 November. As the year draws to a close, there'll be lots of Christmas fayres with things to buy and lots of seasonal atmosphere to soak up. One of these is the Abergavenny Christmas Food & Drink Fair, is a great place to buy seasonal food and drink on 11 December.

If you can’t make it to Wales why not have a go at some of our delicious recipes?

Going for Gold

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 2 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Two fantastic gold medal wins for Team GB yesterday. Congratulations to rowers Heather Stanning and Helen Glover and cyclist Bradley Wiggins. We can boast a Welsh connection to both. Robin Williams formerly of Chepstow, and who himself learned to row at Monmouth, school coached the women to their win, while Bradley Wiggins is backed by British Cycling, whose Performance Director is North Walian, Dave Brailsford.

In fact, we can claim a Welsh connection to every medal won at London 2012 – they have all been made by the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, south east Wales. Every medal winner will be able to take a little bit of Wales home with them but we’re also backing Team GB to ensure that some come back home to Wales.

Quarter finals in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 2 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last night it was a win for the Team GB men’s football at the Millennium Stadium. Led by Craig Bellamy the team beat Uruguay 1-0, with Daniel Sturridge scoring the goal.

This sees Team GB head for the quarter finals, with a return to the Cardiff stadium on Saturday, to take on South Korea.

This week the stadium has seen lots of sporting action, with Mexico beating Switzerland 1-0 yesterday afternoon. On Tuesday it was a 0-0 result for Japan women’s team against South Africa, with the game played under a roof for the first time in Olympic football.

This Friday Japan women’s team return to the stadium to take on Brazil for a quarter final match.

The streets will be buzzing with excitement for the Olympic football matches and Saturday it’s the Cardiff Carnival too, with free family entertainment, it’s going to be a great day. The atmosphere in and around the stadium is always so great on match days, with crowds of excited fans.

For those not able to get to the matches or other London 2012 events, they needn’t miss out on sporting action, as there’s coverage on big screens, with seating provided, in Cardiff and Swansea throughout the games.

World Alternative Games

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 1 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone is really buzzing with the Olympics and getting ready for the Paralympics, which start on 29 August, but did you know that for those who like their sport a little bit different there’s a third series of games this month? The World Alternative Games take place from 17 August to 2 September.

How does the World Worm Charming Championship, Office Chair Racing, Gravy Wrestling or Russian Egg Roulette grab you? These are just a few of the unusual events that the World Alternative Games offers.

The games take place in Llanwrtyd Wells, Powys, Mid Wales, a great setting to the north of the Brecon Beacons, one of three national parks in Wales.

Every year Llanwrtyd Wells plays host to a line up of unusual events that include the World Bogsnorkelling Championships, with people travelling far and wide, including from South Africa, Australia and Canada last year. This event takes place this year on 26 August.

Cardiff Castle Education Award

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 1 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff Castle’s Education Centre has won the prestigious Sandford Award for excellence in heritage education.

Cardiff Castle joins an elite group, ranked with the likes of Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Blenheim Palace.

The panel of Judges is drawn from professional educationalists including OFSTED Inspectors, education consultants and former head teachers. They are looking to see if every school visit is educational, stimulating, and memorable for children.

The castle is a great place to visit for all ages, with great views of the city from the keep and a wealth of history. It's situated in the capital’s city centre not far from the many shops and the National Museum Cardiff.

The castle hosts many events throughout the year including jostling and banquets. The Great British Cheese Festival takes place in the castle on 22-23 September. The event was recently voted number 2 in the Independent’s 10 Best food festivals.

Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After record-breaking attendances at the Royal Welsh Show last week we’re now looking forward to another cornerstone of summer in Wales.

This year’s National Eisteddfod of Wales takes place in Llandow, Vale of Glamorgan, 4-11 August 2012.

The Eisteddfod tradition dates back to the 12th Century when the Lord Rhys first held a bardic tournament – a competitive festival of music and poetry in Cardigan.

Today’s National Eisteddfod maintains the tradition but alongside the competition there are all kinds of activities and entertainment for people of all ages and backgrounds. The Eisteddfod is a microcosm all things Welsh. The language of the Eisteddfod is Welsh and but there’s a warm welcome for everyone whatever your language – information and translation facilities are available to ensure everyone enjoys themselves.

With the Olympics taking place at the same time this year, there will even be a big screen on the Maes (festival ground) so that visitors can continue to keep up with all the action.

The site of the National Eisteddfod alternates between north and south Wales each year. At Llandow, the site is a former airfield and fitting home for another Olympic connection. Adain Avion, part of the Cultural Olympiad which having travelled throughout Wales over the Summer, makes the Eisteddfod its final destination. The opening of the contemporary art space’s black box will reveal archive from the three earlier nesting sites of the plane and invite everyone to enjoy the footage.

Llandow is also close to Llantwit Major, or Llanilltud Fawr in Welsh, often called the oldest University in the World. St Illtud who came to Wales from Brittany founded a monastery-university in the 6th Century.

Wales kicks off the Olympics

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A great start to the Olympics yesterday (25 July) when the first event took place at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Wales was bathed in sunshine and the streets were full with people enjoying all the family entertainment on offer. There were smiles all round and you couldn’t move for visitors saying what a great place our capital city is and praising the Welsh hospitality. We know people love the welcome they get here in Wales but it’s always a great feeling!

When the women’s football kicked off Team GB came out winners against New Zealand and in the second match Brazil beat Cameroon.

Today we’re doing it all again. Its sunshine all the way and tonight it is the men’s turn with Brazil v Egypt taking to the Millennium Stadium pitch, while Team GB is led out for their Olympic opener against Senegal by Welshman Ryan Giggs at Old Trafford.

American Study of Welsh History

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The North American Association for the Study of Welsh History and Culture (NAASWCH) biennial international Conference takes place at Bangor University, for only the second occasion that the Conference has met outside North America. Traditionally held in the US and Canada, the Conference takes place between 26th and 28th of July and has come to Wales once before.

The long-standing cultural relations between Wales and America, including the experience of Welsh communities in North America will provide the Keynote themes at the Conference, which is organised by Professor Tony Brown of Bangor University’s School of English and Dr Andrew Edwards of the University’s School of History, Welsh History & Archaeology.

Professor Brown said ‘It is a testament to Bangor University’s leading role in developing international-quality Welsh scholarship that the NAASWCH conference is being held here, with many leading figures in their fields. We are looking forward to what should be an excellent and stimulating conference’.

The Conference has attracted over 80 scholars from both sides of the Atlantic to discuss a wide range of topics from medieval poetry to the presentation of Wales in contemporary film and TV, from Daniel Defoe and Samuel Johnson in eighteenth Wales to writing by women in Wales from the eighteenth century to the present. Literary topics include a set of papers on R.S. Thomas. There will also be poetry readings in both Welsh and English which will include prize-winning writers Angharad Price, Jason Walford Davies, Zoe Skoulding and Ian Gregson.

Doctor Who Experience Opens

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Doctor Who fans are in for a real treat as the Doctor Who Experience opens today (20 July 2012). The Experience’s new permanent home is in Cardiff Bay, where visitors will come face to face with Daleks and Sontarans, see amazing special effects and fly in the TARDIS.

The Experience is a stone’s throw from the Roath Lock studios, in Porth Teigr where the popular TV show is filmed.

Lucky fans may spot the hit BBC programme being filmed on location in Wales. Cardiff is a popular shooting venue, with many places in the capital featuring in the hit show. They include The National Museum Wales, which featured in Planet of the Dead and The Lazarus Experience and St Fagan’s National History Museum, one of Europe's biggest open-air museums, which was the backdrop for Human Nature and The Family of Blood.

Caerphilly Castle, north of Cardiff has featured several times, with The Rebel Flesh and Vampires of Venice, just two stories filmed in the largest castle in Wales.
Margam Country Park is also a regular choice for the hit show and spin offs, The Sarah Jane Adventures and Torchwood. When David Tennant was the Doctor, the popular visitor attraction was the location for The Sontaran Stratagem and The Poison. The park will feature again in series seven, which hits UK screens in August.

The TARDIS has also journeyed to Worm’s Head, Rhossili in the picturesque Gower. The award winning coastal location became a distant galaxy in the year five billion and twenty-three for New Earth.

Popular surfing venue Southerndown beach, near Bridgend, South Wales has also been used more than once inclulding as “Bad Wolf Bay” where Rose (Billie Piper) said goodbye to the Doctor (David Tenant) in Doomsday.

Matt Smith, who plays the current doctor, says that Wales is great to film in, with wonderful beaches and a great variety of locations. Matt spends 9 months of the year in Wales and enjoys the friendly people. The popular star, who carried the Olympic torch outside the Wales Millennium Centre in May, says the Rugby is a "must" do.

The show is popular in many countries across the world, including the USA, and Canada. The theme tune is a big hit in the States, where it beat popular TV shows Dexter, Modern Family and True Blood to the number 1 slot of the most downloaded TV programme on iTunes in the US in 2011.

If you were in Wales recently you may have spotted some the monsters who had “escaped”. Don’t worry, they were recaptured and are now back in the Doctor Who Experience for everyone to see.

Royal Welsh Show

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Monday sees the start of this year's Royal Welsh Show (23-26 July), the biggest and best attended agricultural event of its kind in Europe.

The annual show which was established over 100 years ago is the shop window for Welsh farming and food production. It's a real celebration of all things rural. Set in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, at the heart of beautiful Welsh Countryside the permanent showground, one of the finest in the world, plays host to some 8,000 farm animals, 1000 trade stands and 200,000 visitors over 4 days every July.

In addition to the Show's displays and competitions including the spectacular Welsh cobs (horses), visitors can sample some of the tastes of Wales in the food hall - Welsh meats, dairy products including many famous Welsh cheeses, as well as fruits, preserves, honey and other products of the land and sea. Many of the companies exhibiting having previously won prestigious Wales the True Taste Food & Drink Awards and there’s a chance to watch cookery demonstrations by celebrity chefs and learn more about Welsh food and drink.

The shops and tradestands lining the avenues on the showground offer a wide range of beautiful and practical goods handicrafts, jewellery, antiques, fine arts, and goods of every description from clothing to cars, or wheelbarrows to wellington boots.

This year's attractions also include Ukrainian Cossacks, The Regimental Band and Corps of Drums of The Royal Welsh and Titan the Robot.

A warm Welsh welcome for Olympians

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

At a reception hosted by the First Minister of Wales for the overseas Olympic teams training in Wales, one thing was clear - the warm Welsh welcome the teams have had has outshone the less than perfect weather plaguing the preparation of teams training throughout the UK and beyond in the run up to these games.

Annette Knott, Trinidad and Tobago's team Vice President and Chef de Mission said that it had been a great idea to come to Wales to train and when they get to London they look forward to telling fellow athletes who have been training elsewhere what they've been missing.

Raylene Bates, Team Manager for the New Zealand team said they'd been extremely grateful for the welcome they'd received in Wales and from the Cardiff community "the people have been great, the facilities have been great and people have gone out of their way to make sure we got everything we need".

The Olympic competitors are now moving to London, although some will retain their Welsh base and we hope to see many of them back in Wales before the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

Games Kick Off in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The countdown to London 2012 is fast approaching, with the Opening Ceremony taking place on Friday 27 July. Two days ahead of this Cardiff gets the first slice of sporting action.

The Millennium Stadium in Cardiff will host two women’s football matches on Wednesday 25 July, Team GB will face New Zealand followed by Cameroon against Brazil.

There will be 11 matches at the city centre venue over 8 days, including the Men's Team GB match against Uruguay on 1 August as well as both the women’s and men’s quarter finals and the Men’s Bronze Medal Match.

Welshman Ryan Giggs is the Team GB's captain and his team includes three more Welsh internationals Craig Bellamy, Joe Allen, and Neil Taylor and Swansea City player Scott Sinclair.

Spectacular Ghost Forest finds spiritual home

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It has touched the hearts of millions including Michelle Obama, Kofi Annan, Ed Miliband and Martha Kearney. It’s been on an epic journey from Ghana via Denmark, Oxford and Trafalgar Square. Now ‘Ghost Forest’ is coming to the National Botanic Garden of Wales – and is staying for ever.

Described as “the most significant environmental art installation ever to come to Wales”, Ghost Forest is 10 primary rainforest tree stumps – up to six metres wide at the base and weighing 20 tonnes – given a new life by artist Angela Palmer.

Says Angela: “Today, a tropical forest the size of a rugby pitch is destroyed every four seconds, impacting on climate, biodiversity and the livelihoods of indigenous people. The trees in Ghost Forest – most of which fell naturally in storms – are intended to represent rainforest trees worldwide.”

The trees, which have been in Trafalgar Square, London and outside the Danish Parliament in Copenhagen, will find a new and permanent home at the Carmarthenshire attraction, and have been secured jointly by the National Botanic Garden in partnership with the Wales-based rainforest charity, Size of Wales.

Size of Wales gets its name from its mission to help protect 2 million hectares of rainforest – 2 million hectares being the size of Wales. These 2 million hectares are made up of 20 projects in 15 countries in Africa and South America.

Garden Director Dr Rosie Plummer said: “This is an incredible coup for the Garden, for Carmarthenshire and for Wales. No one can fail to be awed by the sight of these huge botanic leviathans and we are planning to inspire all our visitors, young and old, to create poetry, art, photography, music and theatre out of their experiences.”

Dr Plummer added: “Getting close to and touching and smelling a rainforest tree is an experience few will have in their lives and we are sure people will want to come from all over Wales and beyond to share in this astonishing experience.”

Director of Size of Wales, Hannah Scrase said: “Wales is stepping up to the challenge of stopping tropical forest destruction through Size of Wales and having Ghost Forest here in Wales to remind us will really strengthen our resolve and will help us all to get closer to the issue of tropical deforestation.

“I visited Ghost Forest in Oxford and it is a very powerful memorial to forests we have lost already and a wake-up call to protect what is left. We are very pleased that our partners at the National Botanic Garden are able to give a home to the Ghost Forest.”

Gold Star Awards

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The First Minister of Wales has recognised the link between Wales and Africa with UN-endorsed awards.

The Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM presented The Gold Star Awards alongside Head of the INSPIRE Institute at Trinity St David’s University, Jane Davidson to six voluntary-run Welsh groups and six African communities with for their contribution towards volunteerism, skills exchange and community development.

The Awards are endorsed by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and are supported by the Wales Africa Community Links, hosted by Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) with funding from the Welsh Government’s Wales for Africa Scheme.

Six Gold Star Awards were presented for their impact on livelihoods, health, youth, environment and equality in the communities they connect:

Amlwch, Isle of Anglesey and Sankwia (Cyfeillion Sankwia Friends) – UN Environment Gold Star
Bettws, Bridgend and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Valley and Vale Community Arts) – UN Equality Gold Star
Crossgates, Powys and Bulabakula, Uganda (Africa Greater Life Mission) – UN Environment Gold Star
Hay-on-Wye and Timbuktu, Mali (Hay 2 Timbuktu) – UN Youth Gold Star
Llanfyllin, Montgomeryshire and Kumi and Kamuli, Uganda (Dolen Ffermio) – UN Livelihoods Gold Star
Penygraig, RCT and Cape Town, South Africa (Valley’s Kids) – UN Youth and Equality Gold Stars

The inspiring projects range from Powys links sharing learning around climate change and adaptation to its impacts in Africa, to Valley’s Kids using community arts to bring young people together across continents over the last four years, culminating in the ‘Torchbearers’ performance being premiered in the Wales Millennium Centre on 20-21 July.

All six Welsh towns received a road sign to commemorate their links with their African partners, as did five other community links that are highly commended for their contribution towards community development:

Brecon, Powys and Molo, Kenya (Disability Wales Africa and Brecon Molo Health Link)
Briton Ferry, Neath Port Talbot and Bbowa, Uganda (Care for Uganda)
Caernarfon, Gwynedd and Mkushi, Zambia (Itala Foundation)
Lampeter, Ceredigion and Bore, Kenya (Lampeter Bore Community Carbon Link)
Pembroke, Pembrokeshire and Zanzibar, Tanzania (Sazani Associates)

Carwyn Jones said: ‘I am continually impressed by the dedication of the Wales – Africa community links groups. It's great to see their inspiring work recognised by the UN Gold Star Awards. I'd like to congratulate them all on this remarkable achievement and wish them well as they continue this important work.’

In recognition of the variety of links with Africa now being led by volunteer groups across Wales, the First Minister commended the work of 22 other Wales Africa Links who are making progress towards attaining the coveted Gold Star Award through learning, partnership and community development projects. The towns will also receive a road sign to celebrate their links.

The awards ceremony, in Cardiff Bay’s Pierhead, featured singers, dancers and musicians from South Africa courtesy of Mzansi Cymru who are performing ‘Torchbearers’ in Wales’ Millennium Centre on 20 and 21 July.

6 million+ for Welsh orchestra

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The BBC's National Orchestra of Wales has just finished its first tour of China. The two week tour was organised in partnership with UK Now, the biggest ever festival of British arts and creativity in China.

The orchestra performed six concerts in Tianjin, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou. In Beijing, the 2000 audience in the concert hall was joined by 6 million more watching live on television.

Thierry Fischer, who stands down as principle conductor of the orchestra next month said "I have enjoyed my time immensely with the orchestra over the past 6 and these concerts in China will be one of the highlights".

Mzansi Cymru: Torchbearers

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Sat, 14 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Part of the Cultural Olympiad, Mzansi Cymru is a major arts project spearheaded by Valleys Kids, that links the people and communities of the South Wales Valleys and the township of Langa in Cape Town, South Africa.

Torchbearers is the culmination of the project: a large scale musical theatre based upon two unique events of 1964 the filming of Zulu and the imprisonment of Nelson Mandela.

Performances will take place at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay on 20 – 21 July.

Wales has many links with Africa, see our Wales and Africa pages for details.

This is one of the many events taking place in Wales as part of the Cultural Olympiad, the largest cultural celebration in the history of the modern Olympic and Paralympic Games, designed to give everyone in the UK a chance to be part of London 2012. See our London 2012 pages for details of the Olympic Games in Wales.

Winning Welsh Book

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Renowned poet Patrick McGuinness won the Wales Book of the Year for his debut book The Last Hundred Days. The writer collected his award for the novel at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff last night.

The novel is set in Bucharest and has already achieved world-wide acclaim, being on both the Man Booker Prize Long List in 2011 and the Costa First Novel Award Short List.

Other prize winners include International Fellow of the Hay Festival Jon Gower and Wales’ former National Poet Gwyneth Lewis.

UK’s largest trading floor outside of London

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

OSTC Wales is set to establish the largest trading floor in the UK outside of London in a major expansion supported by the Welsh Government.

The company - which was the first derivatives trading company to set up in Wales - will create 132 new jobs, the majority being graduates from Glamorgan and Cardiff University Trading Floor Schools, along with students from Swansea University.

At the end of their recruitment drive, OSTC's office in Swansea will be their largest.

The project is being supported with financial assistance from the Welsh Government which helped secure the project for Wales against other locations that were under consideration.

This expansion follows on the heels of another project announced earlier this year and supported by the Wales Economic Growth Fund that will see OSTC create 19 jobs as a new team is set up to specialise in power trading markets.

On a visit to OSTC today (Thursday July 12 ) Business Minister Edwina Hart described the expansion as a boost for Wales' Financial and Professional Services Sector, one of nine key sectors identified with high growth potential.

Congratulating OSTC Mrs Hart said:

"This is a major expansion project that will help establish Wales as a growing centre for this highly specialised sub sector. It will also create a significant number of skilled jobs that will enable graduates to remain in Wales to follow their careers and also attract the brightest talent to Wales.

"OSTC Wales has grown significantly since it began trading in Swansea in 2009 and I am pleased to hear it is working closely with Welsh universities and able to recruit the high calibre graduates it needs to support business growth."

Michael Shirley, Managing Director of OSTC Wales said:-

''OSTC prides itself on being a leader and employer of choice in our industry. OSTC is a global leader in derivatives trading, with 12 offices in the UK, Europe, Asia and North America, OSTC specialises in maximising the potential of every trader and trading opportunity in its chosen markets. This has been highlighted recently by OSTC Wales being awarded the Investors in People Gold award.”

OSTC Wales has a track record of recruiting and training talented graduates to trade the financial markets using specialised and bespoke electronic software systems.

OSTC Wales was formed as a joint venture between Kondor Trading Ltd and OSTC Ltd. OSTC is now a significant participant in the world of soft commodities such as cocoa, coffee and sugar, energy markets, agricultural markets and fixed income markets.

OSTC Wales recruitment for their expansion will start in 2013 and will see graduate intakes each February and September through until 2017.

Mela in the Bay

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff, one of the longest standing multicultural communities in the UK, is celebrating this weekend. People will be coming together to the Cardiff Multicultural Mela on Sunday in Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay.

Enjoy a day of arts, fashion, food and dance, with music from Imran Khan, Jassi Sidhu and band, H Dhami and many more.

Although the Mela's roots are Asian cultures, this is a festival for everyone to enjoy and aims to educate, share and celebrate all cultures. The free event has proved very popular since it began in 2007 and was Wales' largest single day multicultural event attracting 30,000+ visitors in 2010.

The event is part of the Cardiff Festival, a series of events that run each summer and include live music, street theatre, open-air theatre, children’s entertainment.

Prince of Wales’ Visit

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This week the HRH Prince Charles and his wife the Duchess of Cornwall have been on a four day tour of Wales.

The Royal couple visited Wales’ newest city St Asaph. The north Wales city was one of three towns to become cities as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Other highlights included visiting Prince William at RAF Valley in Anglesey, where Flight Lieutenant Wales showed his father the Sea King helicopters he flies and the Royal couple officially opened the new Bodnant Welsh Food Centre in the Conwy Valley. The centre aims to offer the best in local and Welsh food.

The couple have also visited Brecon Cathedral, Powys, a food market in Aberaeron, Ceredigion, and the Felinfoel Brewery, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire.

Today (Thursday 12 July) on the last day of the tour the Prince of Wales, together with Rural Affairs Minister Alun Davies, will meet delegates and address a Food Seminar at the National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. The Prince is Patron of the gardens.

Prince Charles became Prince of Wales on 1 July 1969 at a ceremony in Caernarfon Castle in North West Wales.

See Olympians before London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

If you wanted to see the Olympics and Paralympic Games, but failed to get tickets, here is a chance to see world class athletes - some of whom may well become Olympic medallists in the coming weeks!

On the evening of Wednesday 18 July, Cardiff will host an event, which provides a unique chance for Wales to showcase the best of Olympic and Welsh athletics talent just days before the start of the 2012 Games. Many Nations, including USA, Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Botswana, South Africa, Estonia, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Chile, Haiti, British Virgin Islands and Costa Rica all have athletes participating.

The Welsh Athletics International Event is being held at the Cardiff International Sports Stadium, Leckwith, for tickets which cost just £5, visit the Welsh Athletics website.

Higgs Boson Talk at Swansea University

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today (10 July) marks the start of a four day Science conference on ''Strong and Electroweak Matter" at Swansea University.

The conference will involve more than 100 scientists from around the world, including from Europe, North and South America, India, China and Japan.

One of the highlights is a keynote lecture by Professor Peter Higgs, after whom the famously elusive Higgs boson is named.

The CERN project recently discovered the Higgs boson or “God” particle. Swansea University physics graduate Dr Evans, known as “Evans the Atom” is the project leader of the experiment in CERN.

For more information on the conference, see the Swansea University website.

Welsh primary pupils share classroom in China

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff primary school pupils have been sitting alongside new classmates at a Chongqing school for classes in Chinese language and culture.

The trip to China was arranged for the Cardiff pupils as part of the Wales China School Project, run by Cardiff University’s Confucius Institute. In total, 15 participants including children from Lansdowne Primary School and from the nearby Welsh Medium School Ysgol Pencae travelled to China.

The Confucius Institute’s project has been developing Chinese language and culture programmes in schools across Wales for the past five years.

The trip involved seven days in Xiamen (twinned with Cardiff) where the children participated in an intensive language immersion course held at Xiamen University’s Overseas College. This was then followed by a five day excursion to Chongqing where the children took part in classes at Zhong Silo Elementary School.

Pupils from Ysgol Pencae had already completed a Chinese Cultural Awareness course at Cardiff University in 2011 and they regularly run China weeks at the school.

Cardiff Confucius Institute’s Manager Scott Andrews led the expedition and hopes to see this as the start of many future schools-based trips to China. He said: “This trip has been the culmination of nearly five years of commitment to Chinese language learning across Wales and has been made possible with the support of British Council Wales and Cilt Cymru. It has demonstrated the significance that immersion learning can play as part of the overall commitment to language learning for children in Wales and I look forward to seeing future immersion trips developing through the Wales China Schools Project in due course.”

There are more than 350 Chinese language courses delivered in schools across Wales each year supported by two Confucius Institutes and five Confucius Classrooms.

38 Welsh Paralympians - 50 days to go

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

More great news for Wales today as a record 38-strong Welsh contingent for the Paralympic games is announced. They include 13 competitors in the athletic squad.

This completes the squad with 50 days to go until the games, which take place between 29 August and 9 September. See the SportWales website for more information on the announcements. The Minister for Sport, Huw Lewis offered his congratulations to the Paralympians.

Wales has also been chosen by many as a pre-games training camp, they include the National Paralympic Committee of China, who are training in Cardiff and the Mexico Paralympic Team, who are training in Swansea University.

Hywel Dda book back in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We told you a few weeks ago about the forthcoming auction of a copy of the Laws of Hywel Dda.

The book, which was originally owned by a barrister from Brecon before it was taken to America in the 1700s, sold at Sotheby’s London today for £541,250.

The sale means that the book is back in Wales, bought by the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, it provides scope for important new research. The book contains handwritten notes, which show it was used as a working law text.

Books in Medieval Welsh are very rare, with only 80 still in existence. They rarely come up for auction.

It was in the 10th Century that Hywel Dda codified the Laws of Wales. In 2011 the people of Wales voted in favour of granting the National Assembly for Wales further powers for making laws in Wales.

Destination Llandudno

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 6 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Adain Avion continues its journey around Wales with the plane arriving on the promenade in Llandudno on the beautiful North West Wales coast on Sunday (8 July).

The pretty coastal town will enjoy a varied programme of over 50 events during the week that it plays host to the mobile contemporary art space created by Spanish sculptor and designer Eduardo Cajal from the abandoned body of a DC-9 plane.

The events include a chance to listen to the sounds of town’s history and enjoy collaborations by community dance organisation Dawns i Bawb with the local community.

Motor Head is an abstract landscape created by North Wales-based artist Nick Elphick. Nick’s talent has seen him work with world renowned artists/designers including Damien Hirst, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Ryan Gander.

Adain Avion has already visited Swansea and Ebbw Vale and after Llandudno will take a three week break to enable the creator Welsh artist Marc Rees to reflect on highlights of the journey before taking the plane to the National Eisteddfod of Wales in Llandow, Vale of Glamorgan on 4 August.

Other London 2012 Cultural Olympiad activity in Wales this weekend include the final part of Pilgrimage 2012 when it arrives at the Bishop's Palace, St David's, Pembrokeshire on Saturday (7 July). A procession in St David’s will be followed by a celebration of music, food and dance in Bishop’s Palace.

The South West Wales coastal city is smallest city in Britain and where our Patron Saint settled. St David is buried in the Cathedral that was visited by many pilgrims as it was said that two pilgrimages to St David's equalled one to Rome and three equalled one to Jerusalem. The city continues to be a popular destination, not only for the cathedral but for the beautiful coast.

On Sunday (8 July) celebrations take place in Denbigh Castle, where the tale of Mantell will be told. Visitors to the castle with its unusual triple-towered gatehouse will enjoy the story of the golden cape that was inspired by the prehistoric riches of North East Wales.

Welsh scientists in the fight against Huntington's

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 6 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

An international consortium, including scientists from the School of Biosciences at Cardiff University, has had a breakthrough in the fight against Huntington’s Disease.

Huntington’s Disease causes loss of co-ordination, psychiatric problems, dementia and death.

Collaborating scientists in Wales, the USA and Italy have created stem cells from patients’ skin and turned them into brain cells that they can use to investigate the cause of the killer disease. The discovery gives fresh hope for finding new therapies to stop the aggressive disease.

Other major research projects at the University include studies to tackle Alzheimer’s disease, brain cancer, and motor neurone disease. Massive investment in technology is bringing state-of-the-art brain imaging facilities to Cardiff.

For more details on the breakthrough research see Cardiff University’s research web pages.

For more information on Wales's Life Sciences sector visit our business section.

Festival time in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 5 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It hasn’t exactly been festival weather across Britain for the past month or so but that doesn’t stop us here in Wales. The fun goes ahead whatever the weather, and let’s be clear, it’s the fact that we have rain from time to time that makes Wales a beautiful, green country in which to enjoy quality food and exciting outdoor activities.

So what festivals are coming up in Wales in July and August 2012? Here’s just a taste of what’s going on.

Some of the world’s best wakeboarders are heading to Cardigan Bay for Wakestock, Europe’s largest wakeboard music festival this weekend (6 – 8 July). This year the music line up includes Dizzie Rascal, Calvin Harris, Ed Sheeran and Rizzle Kicks.

At the same time Roald Dahl Plas in Cardiff Bay will be full of the sights, smells and tastes of the International Food & Drink Festival. This event, which is part of the Cardiff Summer Festival, offers fresh fish, cheeses and luxury chocolates, wines and much more as well as live music and top class chefs.

This year’s Llangollen International Eisteddfod culminates this weekend with the awarding of the Pavarotti Trophy in the Choir of the World competition on Saturday (7 July) and Llanfest and the Grand Finale Concert on Sunday (8 July) but it doesn’t end there for Llangollen.

Later this month (13-22 July) the town will again be buzzing for the Llangollen Fringe Festival. The programme includes Charlotte Church, Ska band The Beat, an evening with Keith Allen and poetry from Carol Ann Duffy, the Poet Laureate and Gillian Clarke, the National Poet of Wales.

July in Wales also sees:

‘Ponty’s Big Weekend’ (20-22 July) in Pontypridd, the south Wales birthplace of Sir Tom Jones. Performing this year will be Jessie J and Alfie Boe among others;

The Royal Welsh Show (23-26 July) in Llanelwedd, mid Wales – the biggest and best attended agricultural show in Britain;

The Really Wild Food and Countryside Festival (27-28 July) takes place in St David's, Pembrokeshire, Britain’s smallest City. With cookery demonstrations, walks and talks, with lots of foraging for food both in the countryside and sea shore. As well as food, there’ll be craft exhibits and both pig and ferret racing! – Did you know National Geographic Magazine rated the Pembrokeshire Coast as joint 2nd best coastal destination in the world?

Finally in July, there’s The Big Cheese (27- 29 July) in Caerphilly, south Wales. Don’t let the name fool you, there’s more than just cheese at the three day event. There are street entertainers, living history encampments, music, dance, folk dancing, falconry, fire eating and minstrels, a traditional funfair, the Great Cheese Race, and fireworks. They all take place around Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest castles in Europe and with a tower that out-leans Pisa.

In August we’re looking forward to the Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru (4-11 August). The National Eisteddfod of Wales in the primary cultural festival which takes place annually in the first week of August. The Eisteddfod moves between north and south Wales each year and in 2012 it will be held in Llandow in the Vale of Glamorgan, south Wales.

The language of the Eisteddfod is Welsh and everything is held in Welsh. But, there’s a warm welcome for everyone on the Eisteddfod Maes – whatever your language! There’s translation equipment available for the Pavilion, and there’s plenty of information available to help everyone to have a week to remember.

Then there is Brecon Jazz (10 – 12 August). This music festival in the market town of Brecon in the heart of the Brecon Beacons attracts the very best from the Jazz world. This year Five time Grammy winning Dionne Warwick headlines the event. Acts including Roy Ayers, Huw Warren, Soweto Kinch and Ginger Baker to name just a few. Great music in a great setting.

More music and comedy follows with The Green Man Festival (17 – 19 August) in Glanusk Park near Crickhowell, Powys. A huge programme of entertainment including music from Van Morrison, Feist and Mogwai and comedy from The Rubber Bandits and Robin Ince.

All this and the Olympics too! Who wouldn’t want to be in Wales?!

Record breaking Welsh Competitors

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 5 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

There will be a record breaking 29 Welsh competitors in the London 2012 Olympic games.

Frankie Jones will represent Wales in Rhythmic Gymnastics. Other recent announcements include swimmer Marco Loughran and athletes Dai Greene, Christian Malcolm, Brett Morse and Rhys Williams.

The men’s football team for the London 2012 games include five Welsh players in the squad: former international footballer Ryan Giggs and Welsh international and Liverpool player Craig Bellamy, along with three Premier league Swansea City players, Joe Allen, Scott Sinclair and Neil Taylor.

Welsh competitors will represent Team GB in 13 sports: Athletics, Boxing, Cycling, Football, Gymnastics, Hockey, Rowing, Sailing, Shooting, Swimming, Taekwondo, Triathlon and Weightlifting.

Selection is still taking place for the Paralympic games.

Record breaking Welsh Competitors

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 5 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

“Not only are we delighted with the sheer number of Welsh competitors breaking through but also with the diversity of the 13 sports represented, which shows real strength and depth here in Wales. To my knowledge we have never sent two boxers and five swimmers from Wales to a Games before.” - Professor Laura McAllister, Sport Wales Chair.

First Minister wishes US happy Independence Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 4 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has sent his best wishes to the people of the United States as they celebrate Independence Day (Weds 4th July).

In a letter to the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Mr Louis B. Susman, the First Minister set out the importance of the relationship between the two countries.

The First Minister said:

“My best wishes to you and our American friends as you celebrate the 4th July, such a pivotal event in the history of your country.

“Welsh links with America go back to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and beyond, some would say to the discovery of America by Welsh explorer Madog.

“As the chapters of your history have been written, Welsh-Americans have played a central role in the story of your nation.

“Today we greatly value the business, education and cultural links between our two countries. Our trade links are invaluable, with the US representing the largest single export market for Wales.

“There are currently more than 200 US business operations and initiatives here in Wales, such as the Wales Fulbright Summer Institute giving young leaders of the future a connection with Wales which we hope will provide an opportunity for these students to find out more about Wales’ proud heritage and our position as a modern nation within the UK and the wider world.

“On behalf of the people of Wales, happy Independence Day.”

In May this year the First Minister led a trade mission to the USA to expand Wales’ links with the country. Later this year there will be a Welsh Government led trade missions to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Washington and Chicago.

Llangollen International Eisteddfod

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 3 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The 66th Llangollen International Eisteddfod starts today (3 July 2012). This annual festival of music and performance has been attracting people from all over the world since 1947. The Eisteddfod’s motto ‘Byd gwyn fydd byd a gano. Gwaraidd fydd ei gerddi fo’ which translates as "Blessed is a world that sings, Gentle are its songs” reflects the unique spirit of peace and goodwill within which this festival takes place. Friendships formed at the festival can last a lifetime.

For 6 days every July the small town of Llangollen in North Wales throngs with colourful costumes, unusual musical instruments and people speaking and singing in many different languages from over 50 countries. With competitions and concerts taking place throughout the week, there’s something for everyone.

In 1955 a young Luciano Pavarotti sang with his father in a choir. This year some of the headline names include: Alfie Boe, Karl Jenkins, Jon Owen-Jones and Leslie Garrett.

Find out more about what’s on at the 2012 Llangollen International Eisteddfod

Visitors to the Eisteddfod should also try to take the opportunity to visit Wales’s most recently named UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which carries the Llangollen Canal.

Food for thought

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re feeling hungry just thinking about the Hay Summer Food Festival and the Llandysul Food Festival, both sure to be popular this Saturday.

Nearly every weekend, there's a food festival somewhere in Wales. They range from small local events to big international festivals.

Delicious food and drink can also be found in the many markets throughout Wales where you can buy fresh local produce. Or why not have a go at some of our recipes?

Adain Avion

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

All aboard the Adain Avion, a mobile contemporary art space created from the abandoned body of a DC – 9 plane by Spanish sculptor and designer Eduardo Cajal and brought to Wales by Welsh artist Marc Rees.

Over the next month this unique space is travelling around Wales as part of the 2012 Cultural Olympiad with local communities to be involved at every stage.

The plane is in Swansea, west Wales this week, based right outside the National Waterfront Museum.

On Saturday its “Dance Day” as part of Taliesin’s seventh annual dance festival. Sunday people will picnic on their Welsh blankets to mark the centenary of Melin Tregwynt woollen mill.

Sunday afternoon sees the plane moving on to Ebbw Vale in the south Wales valleys for the next stop of the journey. Ebbw Vale’s Adain Avion visit starts with Ghost Parade, a large scale collaborative event created by artist Stefhan Craddick.

The plane will be in Ebbw Vale until 7 July. This leg of the journey also sees internationally renowned author of The Dust Diaries and Resistance, Owen Sheers with Christopher Morris and their contribution SMS: Steel Men Stories. Cold Rolling by choreographer Tanja Råman, with Ballet Cymru and Ebbw Vale Male Voice Choir ends a week of creative and innovative performance and presentations in Ebbw Vale.

The plane then moves on to Llandudno, north Wales and Llandow in the Vale of Glamorgan for the National Eisteddfod of Wales.

The events are being filmed by the plane’s black box, which will be deposited in the National History Museum at St Fagans, Cardiff as a contemporary folk archive.

Cauldron and Furnaces events, also part of the Cultural Olympiad, this weekend include a multi-sensory event in Blaenavon Ironworks on Saturday and a procession, music and theatre in Caernarfon Castle on Sunday.

DNA Barcode of Welsh Plants

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales has become the first country in the world to DNA barcode all its flowering plants.

This scientific breakthrough opens up huge potential for the future of plant conservation and human health.

The work to make Wales No 1 in the world was carried out at the National Botanic Garden in collaboration with Amgueddfa Cymru-National Museum Wales and project partners from various universities.

The Barcode Wales project, led by the National Botanic Garden’s Head of Conservation and Research Dr Natasha de Vere, has created a reference database of DNA barcodes based on the 1143 native flowering plants and conifers of Wales, assembling over 5700 DNA barcodes.

Plants can now be identified from pollen grains, fragments of seed or roots, wood, dung, stomach contents or environmental samples collected from the air, soil or water.

Dr de Vere explained the importance of the project: “Wales is now in the unique position of being able to identify plant species from materials which in the past would have been incredibly difficult or impossible. Through the Barcode Wales project, we have created a powerful platform for a broad range of research from biodiversity conservation to human health”.

Dr Tim Rich said: “We have taken DNA samples from thousands of specimens in the National Museum’s collections. This technique opens up a whole new set of uses for our collections.”

EU boost for logistics hub in North West Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A £7m investment to develop a logistics hub in North West Wales to support the growing freight industry, has received the go ahead for EU funding Deputy Minister for European Programmes, Alun Davies, announced today.

£2.2m will be invested to drive forward plans led by Conygar Investment Company PLC to develop the first phase of a logistics and distribution hub at Parc Cybi, near the Port of Holyhead.

The EU investment will help provide high quality workspaces, including two office buildings and two distribution warehouses further supporting the development of the port as the UK ’s main freight terminal serving Dublin and Ireland. It will also create employment opportunities on the site.

Deputy Minister for European Programmes, Alun Davies, said:
"This strategically important site will act as a catalyst for future investment and jobs in the region’s economy. We are committed to developing the right infrastructure to encourage investors and enable businesses to grow. I am pleased we have been able to back this initiative with EU funding, providing a real boost to North West Wales."

The accommodation will complement plans to develop a lorry park opposite the site, making it more attractive to companies who will be able to access and serve both existing and emerging markets. The plans also complement the strategic regeneration of Anglesey, with Parc Cybi being one of the sites earmarked for development as part of the Islands’ new Enterprise Zone status.

Conygar Director, Peter Batchelor said: "We are extremely pleased to have Welsh Government support for this much needed facility which will enhance the Port of Holyhead and also create various employment opportunities. Together with our own substantial investment, the EU funding will enable us to press ahead with confidence despite the difficult economic conditions."

The Great Exhibition 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Great to see Wales nominated for so many of the Greats of Great Britain awards. The awards are part of the Great Exhibition 2012 celebrations to mark 2012. There’s much to celebrate as it’s the year of the London 2012 Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

People are urged to vote for their Greats of Great Britain and celebrate our achievements.

The National Botanic Garden of Wales is today’s “Great of the Day” featured on The Great Exhibition 2012. Did you know that we have over 107,000 plant species in gardens throughout Wales?

Other Welsh entries include the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The park, which celebrated it’s 60th birthday this year is a great place to visit. There’s some great coastline and it’s the only coastal national park in the Britain.

St Fagans is nominated in the category of Best British Day Out. The museum offers a great day out, with so much to see that one visit isn’t enough.

Some of our 600+ castles have been nominated in best British Attraction category, including Cardiff Castle and Pembroke Castle. If shopping is your thing, then vote for Cardiff’s Victorian arcades.

In the category of Best in Britain Music/Entertainment we’ve Rugby’s Shane Williams and in the world of music Katherine Jenkins, Sir Tom Jones and Dame Shirley Bassey need your votes.

Our delicious Welsh Cakes also feature and Doctor Who, which is filmed in Wales, is currently in the number ten spot.

One of our great writers Dylan Thomas is there too, but he could do with a few more votes so come on, get voting!

Dinefwr Literature Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Dinefwr Literature Festival takes place from 29 June – 1 July.

This is the first year of the bilingual event that includes authors and poets including John Harrison, winner of the 2011 Wales Book of the Year award, critically acclaimed author of The Pleasure Seekers, Tishani Doshi and Cardiff born writer and film maker Iain Sinclair. Biographer Andrew Lycett will be in conversation with Hannah Ellis, Dylan Thomas’ grandaughter.

The event, described by the Guardian website as one of “10 best quirky UK festivals”, is held in the National Trust’s Dinefwr Park and Castle, Carmarthenshire, West Wales that includes a 12th-century castle, historic house and 18th-century landscape park, enclosing a medieval deer park.Visitors can camp at the site or stay in Carmarthenshire. The Park is close to the market town of Llandeilo on the River Towy.

Wales welcomes Fulbright students

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Wales Fulbright Summer Institute 2012 starts this week. For the second year Cardiff, Aberystwyth and Bangor Universities are working in partnership with the Fulbright commission to bring 8 outstanding students to Wales for 6 weeks.

The students, from Texas, Illinois, Florida, Nebraska, Oregon, Kentucky and Washington will spend 2 weeks at each of the Universities studying contemporary Wales.

The Fulbright Commission was established in 1948 by Senator J William Fulbright to promote leadership, learning and empathy between nations through educational exchange.

Broadway Cleo for Zeta Jones

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Catherine Zeta Jones is to star as Cleopatra in a musical Broadway play.

Catherine, who stars in the recently released film Rock of Ages, alongside Tom Cruise, Russell Brand and Alec Baldwin, is working on the project for the rock and roll show.

The Welsh star has a long history of musicals, having starred as Annie as an 11 year old in Swansea’s Grand Theatre and going on to win an Oscar for her role as Velma in the movie Chicago and a Tony award on Broadway where she played Desiree in A Little Night Music.

When she was 12 years old, Catherine took daffodils to Elizabeth Taylor at the stage door, where Elizabeth was appearing in the London West End play The Little Foxes. The Welsh beauty didn’t get to see the famous violet eyes, as it was “far to early” for Liz to remove her sunglasses!

Elizabeth Taylor famously starred as the Egyptian queen in huge budget 1963 film, where she met and began a relationship with Welsh actor Richard Burton.

Lindsay Lohan is currently filming Liz and Dick, playing Elizabeth Taylor in a new film about the Hollywood legend's relationship Richard Burton. New Zealand born Grant Bowler, who has starred in USA TV shows Ugly Betty and True Blood, plays as Burton.

The script was written by Welsh movie director and writer Christopher Monger who wrote The Englishman Who Went Up A Hill But Came Down A Mountain, starring Hugh Grant, Colm Meaney and Tara Fitzgerald.

Around Wales this Weekend

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re looking forward to the weekend here in Wales. Here are some of the things people will be doing.

On Friday evening in Swansea the Dylan Thomas Centre will be celebrating Young Writers with the Terry Hetherington Awards.

In Newtown the Oriel Davies Gallery is exhibiting 38 artists selected from the Oriel Davies Open 2012 competition. It is the last weekend of the exhibition which runs to Wednesday 27 June. The competition attracted submissions with over 600 entries reflecting the breadth and diversity of practice from across the world.

Saturday sees the start of Pembrokeshire Fish Week which runs until Sunday 1 July so there’ll be plenty of people enjoying the 250 events taking place throughout the county. The week celebrates not just delicious fish, but the wonderful coast and heritage. The area has some great walks along the coastal path.

Polo fans will be at Fonmon Castle in the Vale of Glamorgan on Sunday for St Davids Polo, with Wales playing South America.

Some of the more energetic will be in Llandudno on Saturday for the Llandudno Sea Triathlon 2012 on Saturday, with competitors taking part in a sea swim and a challenging cycle of the Great Orme, followed by a run around the Promenade and the Little Orme.

Welsh speakers and learners will be enjoying Tafwyl Fair in the beautiful setting of Cardiff Castle. Tafwyl week the Welsh language festival returns to Cardiff for the eighth year and runs from this Saturday 23 through to Friday 29 June 2012, as part of the Cardiff Festival events taking place over the summer.

Walkers will be out in Powys. Saturday’s Drover’s walk in Llanwrtyd Wells will see walking enthusiasts following in the footsteps of drovers of old who drove their sheep, cattle or geese across the mountains, choosing the 10, 15 or 25 mile walk to suit them. Others may be taking a more gentle stroll on Sunday with the Butterfly Walk at the RSPB Lake Vyrnwy Visitor Centre in Llanwddyn.

Whatever else they’re doing everyone will be hoping for a win for the Welsh rugby team when they play the final test of the series Australia in Sydney on Saturday.

Whatever you do this weekend, we hope you enjoy it.

Cape Town Opera at WMC

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last night was the European Première of the Mandela Trilogy with the Orchestra of Welsh National Opera at the Welsh Millennium Centre (WMC).

The two night show will be followed by the Gershwins’ Porgy & Bess, taking place on 23 and 24 June 2012.

For more on Wales’ links with Africa see our website.

Bedwyr at Biennale

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bedwyr Williams will be the artist to represent Wales at the 55th Venice Biennale 2013 International Art Exhibition in June 2013.

His comedic and poetic live performances and installations deal with Welshness, otherness and difference. He often draws upon the quirky banalities of his own autobiographic existence to develop his sculptures and performances. Subjects include growing up in Colwyn Bay with size 13 feet, to a mini bus crash with four other artists in residence (in which he is the only survivor).

The 37 year old artist, who was born in St Asaph and now lives in Caernarfon, North Wales says "I'm interested in worst case scenarios and the people that get caught up in them".

Bedwyr Williams’ work featured in the opening show of the new and refurbished Mostyn and last year created a memorable installation in Oriel Davies of Nimrod a piece first shown at Ceri Hand Gallery. Ceri Hand Gallery represents Williams and will be launching a new solo show by the artist in their new gallery in London, during Frieze week in October.

His work was also included in the Becks Futures show in 2006, and in recent exhibitions in London, Turin, Paris and Bonn. In 2011 he took part in Performa 11, New York.

Bedwyr Williams’ exhibition in Venice will be curated by two of Wales’s leading galleries; Mostyn and Oriel Davies and will be shown in the Ludoteca, midway between the critical exhibition sites for the Biennale of the Giardini and the Arsenale. This is the second time Wales has shown at the Ludoteca.

Wales’s presence at Venice has been a vital part of the artistic calendar ever since the country first burst onto the International Biennale’s scene in 2003 with the exhibition.

Since then the Biennale has provided a superb platform for visual art from Wales, strengthening its presence on the international stage and reflecting back into Wales through exhibition tours and related initiatives such as internships, the Invigilator Plus programme, educational resources and talks.

The exhibition is commissioned and managed by the Arts Council of Wales and Wales Arts International with support and collaboration from the Welsh Government and British Council.

Ancient Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A professor from Oxford University says that Welsh people may be the most ancient Britons. The geography of Wales made it more likely that ancient DNA would be retained.

His research into the DNA suggests the Welsh are genetically distinct from the rest of mainland Britain and that Welsh DNA could be traced back to the last Ice Age, 10,000 years ago.

Professor Donnelly said: "People from Wales are genetically relatively distinct, they look different genetically from much of the rest of mainland Britain, and actually people in north Wales look relatively distinct from people in south Wales."

He said people from south and north Wales genetically have "fairly large similarities with the ancestry of people from Ireland on the one hand and France on the other, which we think is most likely to be a combination of remnants of very ancient populations who moved across into Britain after the last Ice Age.

The next stage of the research will looking at physical similarities between different groups, in which the team will use photographs of people and make 3D models to measure quantitative similarities between related groups. For more information, see the BBC Wales News page.

Recently builders working in Monmouth, the world’s first Wikipedia town, discovered ancient wooden foundations, said to be like no other in Britain.

Experts think the unique find is a long house that dates back to at least the Bronze Age, though carbon dating is taking place to establish just how old they are. There is a possibility that the foundations could even be from the Neolithic Age, making them around 2,000 years older the pyramids in Egypt.

For more on Welsh history, have a look at our history and ancestry pages.

Mediaeval Welsh book under Sotheby’s hammer

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Famous auctioneers Sotheby’s is to auction one of the most significant documents in Welsh history in July. The Massachusetts Historical Society of Boston, currently owns the 14th century mediaeval Welsh pocket book the Laws of Hywel Dda and hopes it will fetch half a million pounds or more when it goes up for sale in July.

The rare book details the law created by tenth century Welsh ruler Hywel Dda. The law was said to be much fairer than those in other countries and included women’s rights.

An example of the law is if a couple split within the first seven years of marriage, the “trial period”, there would be a fair splitting of their goods, with lists in the law book determining who gets what.

In the 1700s, Welsh settlers took the law book to America. The book passed through marriage to the Scourfield family, who were among the earliest settlers in the Pennsylvania Welsh community.

Welsh slate makers established quarries in Pennsylvania with Welsh places names such as Old Bangor Quarry in Bangor, PA. Many of the place names in USA are Welsh, including many places names Cardiff, Bangor and Swansea.

The links between Wales and the USA go back a long way. At least six of the signatories to the Declaration of Independence and two of the Founding Fathers were of Welsh extraction, including Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, went on to become American Presidents.

Many famous people in the USA have Welsh ancestors, including Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, who has said, “almost two million people living in the U.S. can trace their roots back to Wales. I am proud to say that I am one of them.”

There are many resources to trace your Welsh ancestors, both online and in person, such as the National Library for Wales in Aberystwyth.

Gregynog Festival 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A treat for classical music fans as the Gregynog festival takes place until 1 July. The festival is the oldest classical music festival in Wales. This year the theme is Venice, chosen as it marks one hundred years since Gwendoline and Margaret Davies, the founders of the Festival, began purchasing their Venice paintings.

Visit Britain named it among their top 12 festivals for 2012 and said it was “one of the best-kept secrets among festivals worldwide”. BBC Music Magazine said it was “a mouth-watering array of early music's finest”.

The festival explores seven centuries of Venice's contribution to the arts and its greatest composers, with performers including Jordi Savall, the madrigal group La Venexiana, pianist Alessandro Taverna and Royal harpist Hannah Stone.

The festival takes place in Gregynog Hall, situated 5 miles north of Newtown, Powys, which Sisters Gwendoline and Margaret Davies purchased in 1920.

There are also special events on 21 June in the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff, which is now home to the sisters’ art collection.

The Davies Sisters collection includes Renoir's famous Blue Lady, La Parisienne, three of Monet's waterlilies paintings, paintings by Cézanne and van Gogh's Rain at Auvers as well as works by Millet, Daumier and Carrière. Admission to the museum is free.

Road to 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Geraint Thomas has been selected for the London 2012 Olympics, while Beijing gold medallist Nicole Cooke has been named in the squad, but has to wait a little longer to know if she makes the final four who will compete in the games.

The cyclists have already achieved so much amount in their careers to date, both overcoming injuries and going on to achieve a great deal in their sport.

25 year old Cardiff born Geraint has been a multiple track world champion and as well as an Olympic and Commonwealth medallist and competing in the Tour de France.

Cooke from the Vale of Glamorgan was the youngest rider to take the senior women's title at the British National Road Race Championships. She was also the first woman to become the road race World Champion and Olympic gold medallist in the same year.

The Olympics may be held in London, but in Wales we are still very much involved, with the first event of the games being played in the Millennium Stadium and a lot of the pre games training camps are taking place here.

We had massive crowds turning out to cheer on the torch relay in May during a heat wave. Read some of their stories as well as personal accounts from others involved in London 2012 on the Welsh Government blog. There are some great Olympic photos too on their Flickr page.

So many people are having their photos taken standing in front of the Olympic Rings in Cardiff and enjoying taking a break from the bustle of the shops.

The games are also a great way to show the rest of the world what great arts and culture we have here in Wales. Part of the Cultural Olympiad celebrations is Cauldrons & Furnaces, taking place at eight Cadw sites in Wales, supported by the Arts Council of Wales and the Legacy Trust UK.

Enjoy events from 16 June until 7 July, taking place throughout Wales, including at Flint Castle, Blaenafon Ironworks, Caerphilly Castle and the National Botanic Gardens.

There are thousands of talented young people taking part and a great way to share Welsh history with people from all over the globe. The events include dance, music, choirs, orchestras, rappers and puppetry. Follow the journey online via Twitter hashtag #CF12.

Everyone’s getting on board, including Swansea Central Library where there’s an exhibition to celebrate the contribution the city has made to the games over the last century.

The medals are being made in Wales at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant. We’re looking forward to seeing the winners and cheering on our Welsh competitors amongst them. Good luck to them all.

Share your story of London 2012 on Twitter using the hashtag #2012cymruwales.

Beach Break Live

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Get set for Beach Break Live, the leading UK Student Festival taking place in Pembrey Country Park in South West Wales.

The event, which Example described as “one of my fave crowds of the summer” and “the best festival site I have ever played in the UK”, takes place between 14 and 18 June.

This year the acts include Dizzee Rascal, Friendly Fires, Chase and Status, Labyrinth, the Maccabees and Welsh born High Contrast.

The festival includes beach games, extreme sport and live comedy on 8 miles of white sand, surrounded by 500 acres of forest.

Beach Break Live is one of many music festivals and events in Wales. This year Jessie J and Olly Murs headline at Ponty’s Big Weekend in July and Dionne Warwick at the Brecon Jazz Festival in August.

Donetsk Welsh links

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tonight sees England play France in Euro 2012 in Donetsk, Ukraine. It’s interesting to know that that Donetsk developed due to a Welsh man, John Hughes who founded an ironworks and mining town in the 1870s.

Hughes originally worked in Cyfartha Ironworks in Merthyr Tydfil in South East Wales. He later worked in Ebbw Vale and Newport, building a strong reputation by patenting a number of inventions in armaments and armour plating. This gained him a seat on the board and then directorship at the Millwall Engineering and Shipbuilding Company in London.

The worldwide famous company received an order from Russia and the 54 year old Hughes sailed to the Ukraine, along with his wife, eight children and around 100 specialist ironworkers and miners, most of whom were from south Wales.

He developed the settlement, which had many of the features of a Welsh valley town, including tea rooms, schools and a hospital. The town also had a church dedicated to the patron saints St George and St David.

Donetsk was originally called Hughesovka (Yuzovka) after it’s founder and remains one of the largest industrial centres of the former Soviet Union.

Sport Home and Away

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 8 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Welsh Rugby team are down under getting ready for the first friendly match in their tour of Australia. Sam Warburton returns from injury to play in the Brisbane match tomorrow, (9 June).

Wales will also compete against Australia in Melbourne on 16 June and in Sydney on 23 June, as well as playing against the Brumbies on 12 June in Canberra.

Meanwhile in Wales, the 2012 ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup is almost ready to begin. The extreme sport has been delayed today due to extreme weather, but with a forecast of sunshine and a pleasant 17 C (63 F), the events are rescheduled to start tomorrow.

The event takes place in Wales’ newest and most innovative sporting facility, Olympic-standard Cardiff International White Water, where 145 of the World’s best canoe slalom paddlers from 38 nations are set to compete.

The event will act as the final selection race for the London 2012 Olympic team places for many of the countries attending.

Andrew Howard in most watched USA TV

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 7 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In the USA, Hatfields and McCoys last week became the most watched non-sports telecast on ad-supported cable.

The series, which stars Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton as the feuding families' patriarchs, has a huge following, with the finale raked in 14.3 million total viewers.

Cardiff born film and stage star Andrew Howard plays Bad Frank Phillips in the History Channel hit that has become the most successful no scripted show in TV history.

Howard, who starred in movie blockbusters the Hangover II and Limitless, is tipped for an Emmy for his role. Watch out for another great movie as he is currently filming Squatters with Richard Dreyfus.

Andrew says of his home town “Coming back to Cardiff, you realise just how beautiful it is, such as the parks and architecture – and just how much it’s changed. I feel proud and privileged that this is where I come from.”

The Welsh have made an important contribution to life in the USA from early colonial days when Welsh Quakers went to find freedom in America right up to the present day when the Welsh are making a name for themselves in many walks of life - in particular, in the performing arts.

Damian Lewis and Katherine Jenkins have recently appeared on hugely popular TV shows and Bryn Terfel, Jonathan Pryce and Matthew Rhys have been playing major roles on New York opera and theatre stages.

A TV programme for Lifetime TV about Liz Taylor and Richard Burton is currently being filmed in Hollywood – the script having been written by Welshman Christopher Monger and ‘Tiny Dynamite’ by Cardiff-born author Abi Morgan (scriptwriter for The Iron Lady and Shame) will be staged in New York throughout June.

Find out more about Wales and USA on our USA pages.

50 days to the Olympic Games

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 7 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today there are just 50 days until the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

There have been more announcements of Welsh competitors for Team GB with three rowers, Tom James MBE, Victoria Thornley and Chris Bartley selected.

Tom, a Beijing Gold medal winner, will be part of the men’s four in the games. Victoria, who was on the winning Gold team in Bled during the 2010 World Cup Series, forms part of the Women’s Sculling Squad. Chris, who gained a Gold in Munich in 2010, will be part of the Lightweight Men’s Four. All three rowers are originally from Wrexham.

There’s pre games training takes place in Wales, chosen by many teams due to the great sporting facilities. The teams include the Lesotho Olympic team, training in Wrexham and the USA Paralympics Cycling team, training in Cardiff.

The Olympic Games kicks off with the women’s football match, Team GB against New Zealand in the Millennium Stadium two days before the opening ceremony.

During the Olympic and Paralympic Games the Welsh Government Blog will be updated with personal accounts from those involved, including competitors and coaches. Photos of the torch relay and games are on the Welsh Government’s Flickr pages.

Share your own Olympic stories by using the #2012CymruWales hashtag on Twitter.

Prince William Qualifies as Search and Rescue Capt

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 7 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

After the great celebrations for HMH the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, over the bank holiday weekend, more good news for the royal family as HRH Prince William qualifies as a search and rescue captain.

Flight Lieutenant Wales, as he is known in the military, completed two days of tests to achieve the qualification in RAF Valley in Anglesey, where he has been based since 2010.

The Prince and his wife Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge have a house on the Isle of Anglesey, on the beautiful coast of North West Wales. The Duchess has been learning Welsh. Welsh is one of Europe’s oldest living languages, dating from the 6th century.

Diamond Jubilee celebrations

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In Wales we’re getting ready for a long weekend as we celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

It’s a great opportunity for people who live in Wales to get together with friends and family. People are taking part in street parties and family gatherings.

For those who live in Wales and visitors alike there are many events throughout Wales to mark the Queen’s 60 years on the throne. Here’s a selection of some of the things planned.

There’s the Big Lunch with events throughout Wales taking place on Sunday 5 June. Since starting in 2009 thousands of Big Lunches have taken place across the UK. It’s a chance to chat to neighbours and meet new people. There's one taking place in St Mary's Street, Cardiff and another in Castle Square, Swansea.

In Swansea Jubilee events also include a big screen on Monday evening showing the Queen's Diamond Jubilee concert, featuring Welsh born singers Dame Shirley Bassey and Sir Tom Jones.

The National Botanic Garden of Wales plans to celebrate this occasion with a hobbies and handicrafts event from 2 to 5 June. A great choice too, with displays of dolls houses, model railways, jewellery, quiltwork, lace makers, as well as gardeners' sessions and canoeing, plus a chance to have a go at American line dancing.

Not forgetting the beautiful garden. Did you know that there are more than 107,000 plant species in gardens throughout Wales?

On the isle of Anglesey, home of the grandson of the Queen, HRH Prince William and his wife the Duchess of Cambridge, the events include the Beaumaris Arts Festival, which takes place from 31 May - 7 June 2012. Enjoy classical music, jazz with talks, theatrical events and poetry readings. The event also has art exhibitions and competitions.

A Diamond Jubilee raceday takes place in Ffos Las race course, near Llanelli South Wales on Tuesday 5 June. The event promises to be great family fun and people are invited to dress as their favourite icon from the last 60 years to win a prize.

Those wanting to escape the celebrations might consider a spot of shopping, perhaps come to Cardiff with it’s Victorian arcades and modern malls, or maybe try the coast. We’ve 750 miles of beaches and a Coastal Path that stretches the entire length. You’re sure to find a quiet spot or two, where the only flag waving is on a sand castle.

Talking of castles, we’ve 600 plus castles in Wales. Events have been arranged over the bank holiday, including Tales of Aesop’s Fables at Castell Coch and The Railway Children – A Play and Picnic at White Castle. Check the CADW website for full details of all the events.

Whatever you are doing in Wales or elsewhere, have a great weekend.

A Big Weekend of Sport in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 1 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

There's lots of sport happening in Wales, the Golf Open takes place at the Celtic Manor until Sunday and tomorrow we look forward to rugby, with Wales playing the Barbarians in a friendly at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.

It's 100 caps for Wales flanker Martyn Williams and goodbye to Ospreys’wing Shane Williams, who will play for the Barbarians.

Training is underway, as the Cardiff International White Water (CIWW) gets ready to host the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup from 8 - 10 June 2012. There will be 250 competitions and 38 nations involved in the white water competition.

CIWW, winner of ‘Best Visitor Experience’ at the Visit Wales awards, is a great place to have a go at Canoeing, Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle Boarding. It’s one of our many great sporting facilities, which is the reason Wales was chosen by many for pre-games training camp for the Olympics.

Another Welsh Olympic competitor has been announced, with Flint born Jade Jones selected for Taekwondo. Jade, started taekwondo at the age of 6. Her awards include BBC Wales Young Sports Personality of the Year and the Jaguar Academy of Sport Special Recognition. Read about Jade and the other Olympic and Paralympic competitors on our London 2012 pages.

The Welsh Government blog is another place to get information on the London 2012, with blogs being updated throughout the games. Share your stories on Twitter by using the hashtag #2012cymruwales.

Get set for Hay

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today marks the start of the 25th Hay Festival, which takes place in second hand book capital of the world.

The pretty Welsh border town of Hay-on-Wye in mid Wales will welcome book lovers from all walks of life and across the world who head to Wales for ten days of literary conversation.

The annual event is one of Europe’s premier events attracting over 200,000 people each year.

Speakers include poets, scientists, novelists, film makers and politicians. Subjects discussed range from comedy to medicine, world affairs to music.

Among the headline guests for 2012 are Martin Amis, Ian McEwan, Sir Terry Pratchett and Stephen Fry.

The event runs for ten days, this year from Thursday 31 May through to Sunday 10 June 2012.

Here in Wales we have many other literary and arts festivals taking place throughout the year.

The Open Tees off

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The ISPS Handa Wales Open golf tournament at the Celtic Manor starts today.

The tournament is one of the leading events on the European Tour. See some of the biggest names in golf, including José Maria Olazábal, Colin Montgomerie, Miguel Angel Jiménez and Thomas Bjorn, and Welsh born golfer Jamie Donaldson.

Families can enjoy a great day out at the tented village with its big screen and choice of food and drink. There’s an adventure land for the kids, shopping for the adults and putting with great prizes on offer.

The Wales Open takes place until Sunday 3 June. For more information visit the Wales Open website.

The ISPS (International Sports Promotion Society) was founded by Japanese philanthropist, Dr Haruhisa Handa. Around 40,000 people attended the tournament in 2011.

We’ve around 200 golf courses in Wales, including the Celtic Manor resort, in Newport which hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup, the third largest sporting event in the World. The venue is one of many sporting facilities in Wales and will be used by many teams for pre games Olympic training.

Torch's last day in Wales but the Flame Lives On

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today is the last day the Olympic torch relay is in Wales. What a great time it’s been. Throughout the five days there have been huge crowds, cameras and flags at the ready. Early starts have not deterred the Welsh public and what a great way to get out in the sunshine.

Last Friday not a cobble could be seen in the market square in Monmouth as the crowds awaited the arrival of the torch. The relay travelled through South East Wales, to Newport and on to Cardiff. The capital city has great training facilities and being within easy reach of London, has been chosen as a pre games training venue by many Olympic teams and will host the first competition of the Olympic games at the Millennium Stadium.

A huge crowd saw gold medal winner Lynn Davies CBE run and a smiling Wales rugby captain Sam Warburton took the torch to Cardiff Castle.

Hundreds of Olympic Torch Bearers were nominated by the people of Wales. One of them was Melanie Stephenson who was greeted by a 16,000 strong crowd in Coopers Field where there was a fantastic concert with acts including pop star Emeli Sande, rock band You Me At Six and local group Kids in Glass Houses.

Doctor Who star Matt Smith expressed his surprised by just how many were there in Cardiff Bay at a very early 6:20 am. Cardiff born hurdler and former Olympian Colin Jackson ran in Swansea and there was a surprise visitor to Aberystwyth on Monday when Radio One DJ Chris Moyles joined the relay.

The torch has been carried in so many ways, people walking, by wheelchair, running, and even dancing. It has been on a Ceredigion cob horse, a land train in Swansea and a barge. Mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington took the torch on the mountain train to Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales.

The torchbearers range from famous faces to inspirational ordinary people nominated for their extraordinary stories. They include Anthony Trow, a volunteer, Victoria Radmore, a sports coach who works with disabled children and young athlete Adele Nicoll.

Check out the Welsh Government blog, which is being updated all the time, it’s a great way to hear the stories of those involved in the games. You can share your stories too on Twitter by using the hashtag #2012cymruwales.

There’s lots of photos of the torch relay on the Welsh Government’s Flickr page.

1 million visit WMC

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Wales Millennium Centre (WMC) attracted over a million visitors last year and remains the top visitor attraction in Wales for the 5th year running.

No wonder it’s so popular, the WMC is one of the most lively performing arts centres in Europe. It hosts West End musicals, opera, ballet and contemporary dance and stand up comedians. There’s free foyer performances most days too.

The WMC is also home to many Welsh organisations including National Dance Company Wales (NDCWales). Following their successful tour to India last year, NDCWales is travelling to South West China in October.

10 dancers, hand-picked by and technical team Artistic Director Ann Sholem, will travel to the cities of Kunming, Chengdu and Chongqing. In Chongqing, a region which celebrates a number of successful cultural connections with Wales, the Company will perform at the city’s new Grand Theatre.

Another organisation which calls the WMC home is Urdd Gobaith Cymru who are currently preparing for their annual eisteddfod. The youth event takes place in different venues in Wales each year. This year the Urdd Eisteddfod takes place between 4 and 9 June.

This eisteddfod is one of Europe's largest cultural youth festivals and this year held at Coleg Meirion Dwyfor, near Caernarfon. The Welsh language event for young people aged 7 to 24 includes singing, dancing, acting, performing, art and design, and poetry competitions.

The WMC is also the home base of Only Men Aloud, which was the catalyst for Only Boys Aloud, the choir placed third in this year’s Britain’s Got Talent. The boys were a huge hit with the audience and the judges including Simon Cowell and Amanda Holden.

US-UK Fulbright Summer 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The US-UK Fulbright Commission has announced its UK Summer Institute participants for Summer 2012.

43 Freshman and Sophomore undergraduates will be travelling to the UK this summer for an unforgettable 3-6 week academic, cultural and social programme at some of the country's top educational institutions.

The Commission received a record number of quality applications for this programme from 213 different US universities. Students from 21 different US states and 30 different universities will be attending UK Institutes including Cardiff, Bangor and Aberystwyth Universities.

For the second year running eight students will travel to Wales to experience an exciting and varied six-week programme at three different universities: Cardiff, Bangor and Aberystwyth.

They will study a variety of subjects including Contemporary Wales and will interact with students from around the globe and be taught by some of the UK's leading academics.

The participants will learn about the Welsh culture, history, its geographical differences and the role that industry has taken in shaping the historical, political and cultural landscape of Wales. Participants will also learn about the role and influence of Wales, both nationally and internationally.

For information about the Welsh institutions involved see the Fullbright Commission website.

Torch hot in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve had a fantastic week so far here in Wales and its set to continue into the weekend.

The weather has been really hot and things are hotting up here for the Olympics too.

The crowds are gathering on the streets of Wales as the Olympic torch relay begins its journey through Wales. See the London2012 site for details of the route.

This week Wales has welcomed the Korean Pararowing team, who are in Cardiff for pre Paralympic Games Training. Cardiff has been chosen by many teams to train as it has an excellent range of sporting facilities.

Teams from all over the world have chosen Wales for their training.

The first event of the games will be held in Cardiff, where the Great Britain women’s football teams will play against New Zealand.

Well done too to Neil Robinson who collected his MBE from Buckingham Palace this week. Neil is a former Paralympic Gold medalist as well as gaining numerous other medals. He is now the National Coach for Team GB Paralympic Table Tennis. There are several Welsh players on the team.

Read about the London 2012 in Wales on the Welsh Government blog that will be updated throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

For more information see our Welsh competitors page. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #2012cymruwales when sharing your thoughts and experiences of the Olympics on Twitter.

Wherever you and whatever you’re doing, we hope you all have a great weekend.

University scholarship award winner

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea University Senior Lecturer, Dr Chris Chi-Chiang Shei, has won a prestigious International Scholarship Scheme award to study Chinese language teaching.

The linguistics expert, teacher and researcher won the Higher Education Academy award. He has chosen National Kaohsiung Normal University, Taiwan as his host institution.

Dr Chris Shei, a renowned translator of academic books, has an MA degree in linguistics (National Chengchi University), an MPhil in English and applied linguistics (University of Cambridge), a PhD in TESOL (National Taiwan Normal University) and a second PhD in informatics (University of Edinburgh).

He is currently forming a research team with Japan-based scholars focusing on the use of web-based machine translation (e.g. Google Translate) and second language writing.

The Higher Education Academy’s annual funding award programme supports the development of learning and teaching across UK higher education.

For further details see the Swansea University website. Check our study pages for more information on education and Universities in Wales.

Welsh Award Winning Wine

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to Welsh Wine producers Ancre Hill Estates of Monmouth for their success this week at the London International Wine Fair.

The International Wine & Spirit Competition saw them win silver for their Sparkling Rosé 2008 and bronze for their Sparkling White 2008 and Pinot Noir 2009 while the Decanter World Wine Awards scooped them a silver for their Sparkling White 2008 and commended for their Sparkling Rosé 2008 and Pinot Noir 2009.

Richard Morris commented: “This was a pleasing result for our Sparklings produced in our first season in 2008. Likewise the results for the first Pinot Noir produced by us in 2009 augurs well for our future Pinots. Our conversion to Biodynamic status is now nearly two thirds through the process and from 2013 we will be making Ancre Hill Estates wines ourselves at our new Winery, scheduled to be built in the Spring of 2013”.

For more great food and drink from Wales visit our food pages.

Countdown to Torch Relay

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re getting excited in Wales as we look forward to welcoming in the Olympic torch.

The torch enters Wales on Friday where it will spend a fabulous five days. There’s lots of celebrations planned throughout Wales and looks like we’re set for more of this glorious weather too!

We welcome the relay into Wales where the torch will be carried on a Ceredigion cob horse and a Llangollen canal boat.

The relay will be coming to most of the University towns and cities in Wales including Cardiff, Swansea and Aberystwyth. Did you know that in 2011 over 14,000 international students from outside Europe enrolled on courses in Wales, that's about 10% of the student population.

The Olympic torch will pass through the historical town of Monmouth, which recently became the world’s first Wikipedia town. The journey continues through South East Wales, home of the Ryder Cup in 2010, the Millennium Stadium and Millennium Centre.

The relay ends its first day with musical concerts in the capital city Cardiff, where there’s lots to do from shopping, eating, dancing or just relaxing in Cardiff Bay. The city is home to Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

On Saturday it’s the turn of more South East Wales towns including Barry then to Caerphilly, where the castle has a tower which leans at a greater angle than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Onto the hometown of the Voice judge and world known singer Tom Jones. The torch will get a welcome in the hillside when it travels through a host of friendly valley towns including Merthyr Tydfil and Treorchy.

South West Wales next. The area is known for outstanding natural beauty, not only the stunning actress Catherine Zeta Jones, who was born in the Mumbles, but the Gower Peninsula too! The region is home to many famous faces including Neath born Katherine Jenkins, who was pipped at the post, coming second in the USA Dancing with the Stars show.

Sunday sees the relay makes its way into beautiful Pembrokeshire, home to the fantastic coastal National Park. A walk along the coastal path is a must do. The coastal path is unique being the only country in the world with a continuous coastal path.

The torch resides overnight in the coastal University town Aberystwyth, home to the National Library of Wales.

On Monday the torch travels through beautiful North West Wales. The region boasts the stunningly beautiful Snowdonia National Park, home to the 1085 metres high Mount Snowdon, which is the highest mountain in England and Wales.

Wales says “Hwyl fawr” (that’s Welsh for good bye) to the torch on Tuesday but not before it travels to the island of Anglesey, home to HRH Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

Then it heads to North East Wales taking in pretty coastal town of Llandudno, the seaside town of Rhyl and onto Connah’s Quay. Phew, what a fabulous journey, can’t wait!

Check out the Welsh Government’s Flickr pages, which are being updated with lots of Olympic photos.

Don’t forget to take a look at the Welsh Government blog too that will be updated throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Raylene Bates – Athletics Coach, New Zealand says “This is my first visit to Wales and I already feel very at home here thanks to the wonderful welcome I’ve had.”

David Powell from Rhondda Cynon Taff, a charity fundraiser for over 30 years, is one of the torchbearers. He describes it as “a crowning opportunity”.

See the London2012 site for details of the times of route and the torchbearers.

Share your experiences and thoughts on the Olympics on Twitter using the #2012cymruwales hashtag.

100 days to the Paralympics

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today marks 100 days until the start of the Paralympics.

We can look forward to seeing Steve Thomas in sailing. We will be well represented in table tennis by Rob Davies, Sara Head, Paul Karabardak, Paul Davies and Scott Robertson.

Getting set to compete in swimming are Nyree Kindred, Rhiannon Henry and Liz Johnson. Jacob Thomas will be preparing to compete in Boccia and Keryn Seal in Football.

Wales is the pre games training camp for many of the Olympics and Paralympics teams. Wales has been particularly successful in attracting Olympic and Paralympic Committees to co-ordinate training camps here that allow athletes to adjust to different climates, recover from jet lag and fine tune preparations to compete.

We also look forward to welcoming the Olympic torch to Wales this Friday. See the London2012 site for details of the route.

For more information see our Welsh competitors page and the Welsh Government blog. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #2012cymruwales when sharing your thoughts and experiences of the Olympics on Twitter.

International Museum Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today is International Museum Day. In Wales entry to our museums is free, so you can enjoy a great day out that won’t break the budget.

Here is a sample of what’s on offer at Wales’s museums:

View on of one of Europe's finest art collections at National Museum Cardiff, home to Rodin's 'The Kiss' and Monet's 'Water lilies'. The museum is in easy reach, being in the heart of the capital city.

Enjoy a day out at St Fagans, one of Europe's biggest open-air museums. Explore the buildings from various historical periods in Wales and watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts.

Go 300 feet underground at the Big Pit to see a real coal mine run by real miners.

Olympics blog

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With just a week until the Olympic Torch Relay arrives in Wales, the Welsh Government has launched a blog which will run all the way through the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The blog has been created so that people across Wales and visitors can share their experiences of the Olympic Games in Wales starting with the Torch Relay, next Friday.

The site is also linked to a brand new Flickr channel where Olympic images from the around the country will be shared. We are also encouraging people to use the hashtag #2012cymruwales when sharing their thoughts and experiences of the Olympics.

See the Welsh Government website for more information.

Second Olympics for Sarah

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations Sarah Thomas who has been selected for Great Britain's hockey squad for the 2012 London Games.

Sarah, 31, who was born in Aberdare and grew up in Merthyr Tydfil, told BBC Radio Wales: "Being selected for Beijing was really special as well - my first Olympics.

"But to become a double Olympian is absolutely incredible, probably something I never thought I'd achieve, so it's the icing on the cake."

See our Olympic Competitors page and the BBC Wales sports for more information.

Katherine Jenkins in Dancing Final

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh award winning mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins and her dance partner USA professional ballroom dancer and musician Mark Ballas are through to the USA Dancing with the stars final.

Katherine suffered a back spasm during the quarter final of the show. This caused much speculation over whether the singer from Neath, South Wales would make the final.

Katherine, one of our well known Welsh celebs, wrote on her Twitter page: 'Can't tell you how thrilled I am to be in the final... Thank you to all who voted and made this dream come true! #DWTS.'

Lots of fingers crossed on both sides of the "pond" for the pair!

Beckham brings Olympic Flame home

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

London 2012 ambassador David Beckham will attend the Olympic Flame Handover Ceremony in Athens and bring the Flame back to the UK ahead of its 70 day journey.

David will be joined by five young people, who have been selected from schools and colleges involved in the London 2012 Get Set Education programme and school linking programmes run by the British Council.

The young people are set to have a starring role in the Handover Ceremony expected to start at 19:00pm local Greek time (17:00pm BST) in the Panathenaic Stadium.

Wales is represented by Sean White, age 17. Sean, who attends Bishop Vaughan Catholic School in Swansea, is a Swansea Harriers athlete and Mumbles Rangers Football Club player.

Sean said: ‘I am really excited about visiting Greece and seeing Athens, the home of the Olympic Games. I am looking forward to the Ceremony and to taking the Flame back to the UK in preparation for the Olympic Games. I am really excited about coming home and sharing my experience, both in school, my running club and in the wider community and hope that this will help people to become even more excited and enthusiastic about the Olympic Games.’

The official delegation will be led by British Olympic Association President and London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) Board Member HRH The Princess Royal, Chair of LOCOG Sebastian Coe, Minister for Sport and the Olympics Hugh Robertson and Mayor of London Boris Johnson.

The Olympic torch will begin its journey in the South West and then arrive in Wales on Friday 25 May.

Monmouth is world's first Wikipedia town

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Monmouth is set to be the first Wikipedia town in the world. This Saturday sees the launch of "Monmouthpedia".

An appeal was launched asking people to assist in the project by providing information on aspects of Monmouth life. The appeal resulted in over 1,000 plaques containing items of notable interest being erected around the town. The plaques contain QRpedia codes which take visitors using a Smartphone to Wikipedia articles in their own language. To enable their use free public Wi-Fi has been set up throughout the town.

Monmouth was chosen for the project because of its history - it was the birthplace of Henry V and the medieval 13th century bridge over the river Monnow is unique in Britain as it is the only preserved bridge of its design remaining.

The town appears in the Domesday Book in 1086 and the Council for British Archaeology has designated it as the seventh best town in Britain.

Welsh Film Maker's Home Premier

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Raid premiers in Wales today at 11 simultaneous screenings throughout Wales, including Cardiff, Carmarthen and Llandudno.

Welsh born director Gareth Evans directs the martial art action film, touted as the best action film of 2012.Hailing from Hirwaun in the Cynon Valley, the director is a University of Glamorgan graduate who Variety named as one of 2012's "directors to watch".

This week also saw the London premier of the film Snow White and the Huntsman. Filmed in 2011 in and around Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, the film stars Oscar winner Charlize Theron, Kirsten Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Lily Cole, Ray Winstone and Bob Hoskins.

Wales has provided the setting to Hollywood movies and television shows including Harry Potter and Dr Who. Find out more on our TV and Film pages.

Great week for Ospreys

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

One of the three osprey eggs has hatched in Glaslyn in north Wales.

The young bird is likely to the first osprey to hatch in the UK in 2012.Ospreys, which spend winter in Africa, are still a rare bird in Wales.

Glaslyn which means blue lake in Welsh, lies in the Snowdonia National Park, one of our many great landscapes. For more wildlife spotting in Wales visit our pages on UK family days out.

Great news for the Ospreys rugby team too! A fantastic win over Munster at the weekend secured them a place in the RaboDirect PRO12 final.

Welsh music collaboration at London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The British Council has curated a series of high profile collaborations including an Australian - Welsh music collaboration which will be showcased on the Oceania stage at BT River of Music on Saturday 21st July in Greenwich Park, London.

BT River of Music will be a spectacular weekend of free music from across the 204 Olympic and Paralympic nations presented at iconic sites along the River Thames on 21 and 22 July 2012. The performances will contribute to making the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games a truly international experience.

Mamiaith - Mother Tongue, is a new project that sees Australian Aboriginal arts collective The Black Arm Band Company collaborating with alternative Welsh folk roots group, 9Bach. They share a common experience, exploring musical connections and the preservation of language and culture through music and song.

In 2011, members of 9Bach travelled to Australia to meet and work with artists from The Black Arm Band Company and travelled with them to the remote Aboriginal community of Papunya, situated roughly 240 km northwest of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. The Black Arm Band Company were able to share stories, and allow 9Bach to experience the Aboriginal Australian culture.

The two groups have continued working together, and in March 2012, songwriters and performers Lou Bennett and Shellie Morris of The Black Arm Band Company travelled to North Wales to work with 9Bach’s Lisa Jen and Martin Hoyland to develop joint material and learn about the thriving Welsh language speaking community.

Mamiaith - Mother Tongue will be showcased in a warm up performance in July at Galeri Caernarfon. The final production will premier at BT River of Music on 21 July.

Find out more about Wales' contribution to London 2012

Cardiff and China pool talent to fight disease

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Two new joint institutes for world class medical research have been created as highlights of a high-level Cardiff University visit to China.

Cardiff’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr David Grant, signed the agreements with two of China’s leading medical research centres, Peking University and Capital Medical University.

The first agreement created the Cardiff University-Peking University Joint Cancer Institute. The Institute will be based at Cardiff’s School of Medicine, Peking University’s School of Oncology and Peking Cancer Hospital. Together, the two universities aim to create the research capacity to tackle the most urgent questions in beating cancer. Projects will include cancer diagnosis, metastasis, new technologies and clinical trials.

During the visit, Peking also conferred its highest honour on two of Cardiff’s most distinguished academics. Professor Sir Martin Evans, winner of the 2007 Nobel Prize for Medicine and Professor Wen Jiang, in the forefront of Cardiff’s drive against breast cancer, were made Honorary Professors of Peking University.

The Vice-Chancellor also signed an agreement to create the Cardiff University – Capital Medical University Joint Centre for Biomedical Research. The Centre will be jointly hosted by Cardiff and Capital Medical Universities and will create opportunities for research in a number of medical fields. Initially, the focus will be on cancer research and infectious and immunological diseases. In the future, the scope could expand to include such areas as neurology, dentistry, nursing and tissue repair.

The new Centre builds on a strong existing partnership between Cardiff and Capital Medical. Research Fellows from Capital Medical have been coming to Cardiff to work with Professor Jiang on how metastasis spreads around the body. They have made a number of significant discoveries and the partnership won the International Collaboration category at last year’s Times Higher Education awards. During the Cardiff visit, the most recent scholars on the scheme, from both Capital Medical and Peking, were awarded with their certificates at a ceremony in China’s Great Hall of the People.

Find out more about Wales' links with China in our China pages

Wales Coast Path opens for business

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 4 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Wales Coast Path will be officially opened tomorrow (5th May 2012). The opening of the coastal path means that Wales will become the first country in the world with a path around its entire perimeter. The Path has already attracted media interest, with worldwide travel guide Lonely Planet hailing coastal Wales as the top region in the World to visit in 2012.

The Path is expected to generate up to 100,000 extra visitors to Wales, boosting local economies around Wales’ coastline. The opening of the Path comes in the same week as an announcement that the number of Welsh beaches with excellent bathing water has risen by 20% to its highest number in 25 years. The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) Good Beach Guide found 121 of 152 tested met the standard.

Celebratory events to mark the opening of the Path will be held at Flint Castle in North Wales, Aberystwyth Promenade, Ceredigion in Mid Wales and South Wales’ event will be at Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay. The events start at 11.00am with music and entertainment for all the family to enjoy. Full programme details are available on the Wales Coast Path website.

Garden receives ratings boost

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 3 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The National Botanic Garden of Wales has been given a top rating by the readers of the consumer magazine Which?

The garden, in Carmarthenshire, rated 79% based on overall satisfaction and the likelihood to recommend to friends or family, following a survey of more than 4000 subscribers. This put it on an even score with some well known gardens such as Chatsworth, Blenheim Palace, and Hampton Court.

The garden opened in 2000 and features a collection of over 8000 different plant varieties, spread across 560 acres of beautiful countryside. It is also home to the world's largest single spanned glasshouse, designed by Lord Foster, that has the best display of mediterranean climate zone plants in the Northern Hemisphere.

Head of Marketing, David Hardy said 'This is a terrific accolade for the garden. We've certainly come along way in 12 years. To receive such high marks for our food quality, value for money and disabled access is proof positive that all the hard work going on here is really paying off'.

Acclaimed Indian dance company tour Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

From 30 April – 11 May, acclaimed Indian dance company Natya STEM Dance Kampni will perform two eye-catching and beautiful dance productions at venues around Wales.

Sanjog uses six Kathak dancers to show the purity and virtuosity of the dance style that inspired the birth of the Flamenco. Followed by Vajra (Diamond), a multimedia production that uses Kathak, martial arts and contemporary dance to create radiant poetic interpretations of the duality of diamonds and lightning.

STEM Dance Kampni hosted National Dance Company during its ground-breaking tour of India last December when NDCWales visited Chennai, Bangalore and Delhi, as part of an artistic exchange.

STEM’s tour to Wales is an exchange with NDCWales supported by Welsh Government, British Council & Wales Arts International. Find out more about Wales' links with India on our International pages.

Tour dates:

Brecon, Theatr Brycheiniog
30 April, 8.00pm
www.theatrbrycheiniog.co.uk
Swansea, Taliesin Arts Centre
03 May, 7.30pm
www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk
Cardiff, Dance House
05 May, 8.00pm
www.wmc.org.uk
Pontypridd, Muni Arts Centre
09 May, 7.30pm
www.rct-arts.co.uk
Wrexham, Theatr Stiwt
11 May, 7.30pm
www.stiwt.co.uk

The Queen visits Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Several high profile visitors have been welcomed to Wales this week.

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are on a two day tour of Wales to mark her Diamond Jubilee. They are visiting various communities in south Wales and yesterday, attended a National Thanksgiving Service for the Diamond Jubilee at Llandaff Cathedral near Cardiff and met the Welsh rugby team.

First Minister Carwyn Jones has also welcomed the Japanese Ambassador to the UK to Wales for talks on the relationship between the two countries. His Excellency Keiichi Hayashi, Japanese Ambassador is in Cardiff as part of a two day visit to Wales.

New home for the Olympic Rings

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Olympic Rings have taken position on Cardiff’s City Hall lawns and were officially launched on Wednesday (25 April 2012), three months before the London 2012 Olympic Games start.

The launch of the Rings celebrated the London 2012 Festival which will feature 19 different events taking place in 12 towns and villages across Wales over a 12-week long festival. Running from 21 June until 9 September 2012 bringing together leading artists from across the world.

Wales will be hosting competing international teams including Australia and New Zealand in the run up to the games for their pre-games training camps, as well as football games at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium. The first match will be played on 25 July when Great Britain women's football team play New Zealand, two days before the official opening ceremony.

Find out more about visiting teams and fixtures on our London 2012 pages.

Purple Poppadom is Welsh Curry House of the Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Festivals Company has declared the Purple Poppadom Restaurant in Cardiff Welsh Curry House of the Year 2012.. The announcement was made by Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM, First Minister of Wales at a glittering Awards Gala Dinner at The Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay on Monday 23 April 2012.

“We knew the National Award would eventually go to South Wales but we didn’t think it would take six years. The Purple Poppadom is a restaurant that represents a vision of the future but is a reality we can enjoy today. Imagination, flair and confident execution were all in evidence at this fine Indian restaurant which we believe can happily compete on the world stage. This is a restaurant that Cardiff and Wales can be proud of. The Purple Poppadom is a new restaurant that lives up to the hype. The attention to detail is quite spectacular and at the heart of the dining experience is one of the best chefs in the world, Anand George,” said Niaz Taj, the Jury Chair.

Find out more about Wales' relationships with India on our India pages.

Brazil coming to Wales for 2012 Olympic Games

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The first event of the 2012 Olympic Games will take place at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on July 25 at 4pm when Great Britain women's football team play New Zealand, two days before the official opening ceremony.

Great Britain then face Cameroon on July 28 in Cardiff before concluding their group campaign against Brazil.

The Millennium Stadium will welcome the Great Britain men's football team when they complete their Group A fixtures against Uruguay on August 1, having already played United Arab Emirates and Senegal at Old Trafford and Wembley Stadium respectively.

Football fans will also have the opportunity to watch Brazil, seeded as the "all-time top Olympic performer", play Egypt in Cardiff on July 26.

The men's team is made up of under-23 players with three over age players permitted per squad.

Cardiff's multi-sports venue will host 11 Olympic Football matches in total from July 25 and August 10 including the prestigious men's quarter-final and the Bronze Medal matches.

Millennium Stadium General Manager Gerry Toms said: "The London 2012 football tournament in Cardiff is a huge coup for Wales and for many sports fans it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the Olympic Games.

"With 11 games taking place in our 74,500 capacity stadium there's plenty of chances to get involved."

Great Britain women's coach Hope Powell has urged the general public to come out and support the host nation in the opening event of the Olympic Games at the Millennium Stadium.

Powell said: "With tickets going on sale again pretty soon then I'm sure there will be a big push from LOCOG (London's Olympic Organising Committee) and the British Olympic Association.

"It's the opening event of the game and we hope to have a big support. It was highlighted to me quite a while back when the dates were confirmed that the first game would be at the Millennium Stadium and I'm excited about that.

Fixture's at the are as follows:

Olympic Football

Men's schedule
Group A
August 1 - 19:45 - Great Britain v Uruguay - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Group B
August 1 - 17:00 - Mexico v Switzerland - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Group C
July 26 - 19:45 - Brazil v Egypt - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Women's Schedule
Group E
July 25- 16.00 Great Britain v New Zealand
July 25- 18.45 Cameroon v Brazil
July 28- 14.30 Great Britain v Cameroon
July 28- 17.15 New Zealand v Brazil
Group F
July 31- 14.30 Japan v South Africa

Quarter-finals
August 4 - 19:30 - Winner A v Runner-up B - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Bronze Medal match
August 10 - 19:45 - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Find out more about Wales' involvement in London 2012

Canoe World Cup Slalom coming to Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Plans and preparations are well underway for the World Cup Slalom Event which takes place at Cardiff International White Water this June.

The official team registration process has now been launched and Russia have confirmed that it will be sending a team of 10 paddlers to compete - the first team to confirm their arrival. They will be training at the centre in advance of the World Cup as well as after, in preparation for the London 2012 Olympic games.

The World Cup:
Wales’ newest and most innovative sporting facility will host the last major sporting event before the London Olympics. 145 of the World’s best canoe slalom paddlers from 38 nations will compete at Cardiff International White Water in June’s World Cup.

The event will act as the final selection race for Olympic team places for many of the countries attending. This guarantees top class action and huge pressure high stakes competition as the athletes risk all to earn the right to be at the Olympic start line.

The event runs from the 8th – 10th June 2012 and tickets have now gone on sale on the event’s website. Tickets to view official training which take place between 4th and 7th June will be available on the door at £1 per person.

Source: Canoe Wales

Flower show returns to Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re hoping for some sunshine this weekend as the The Royal Horticultural Society's annual spring flower show returns to Cardiff (20 – 22 April 2012). Set in the grounds of Cardiff Castle’s Bute Park, the first RHS show of the year is a great way to celebrate the start of spring.

Features at this year’s show include:

52 Floral Marquee Exhibitors - with more this year than ever before, exhibitors will be creating a spring spectacle spread over two marquees.
Talks Theatre - a packed programme of gardening conversation and advice from exhibitors and other experts.
Spring Allotment Feature - a hub of Grow Your Own advice and practical demonstrations.
Show Gardens - we are seeing some new garden designers this year, such as Harry Rich with his Naturalistic garden echoing the Brecon landscape and also welcoming back regulars like Gaynor Witchard. Gaynor will be showing us clever, contemporary ways to create an urban sanctuary in a small space.
Trade Stands - a mix of Trade Stands will feature high quality furniture, gardening gifts and tools.
Wheelbarrow Competition - ever popular, this year the Wheelbarrow Competition challenges local schoolchildren to create a display with a sporting theme to tie in with London 2012.
Food - this year the Food Court will see an uplift to incorporate local produce and artisan producers
Farmers Market - a very popular area of the event showcasing local producers and speciality products.
Craft Market - local artists and craftspeople make this a bustling area of the show.
Cycle Rickshaws - decorated by NAFAS taking visitors around the show ground.
Bandstand - a lively programme of events will take place here throughout the event.

View photos of last year’s event on Visit Wales Flickr stream.

Double triumph for Cardiff scientists

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Breakthroughs on the physical structure of memory and geoenvironmental engineering processes have won two Cardiff University academics one of world science’s highest honours.

Professor John Aggleton and Professor Hywel Thomas, both Welsh-born, have been elected Fellows of the Royal Society, widely regarded in the UK as second only to a Nobel Prize in prestige. The Society, the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence, includes Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein and Professor Stephen Hawking among its past and present members.

Professor Thomas, born in Llandovery, came to Cardiff’s School of Engineering in 1980. His research centres on highly complex movements of heat, liquids and gases through the soil. The models he has built have proved of worldwide importance in understanding thermal and physical conditions underground. Professor Thomas also built what is thought to be the world’s first research centre in this field at Cardiff.

Professor Thomas said: “We have applied this research in geo-environmental engineering, particularly in solving problems in waste management. I have worked in this area for twenty years, looking at how best to contain radioactive material deep underground. We are also setting up satellite research centres in Ghana and Nigeria to deal with problems of ground contamination, for example the case of Persistent Organic Pollutants. We are also working with the Indian Institute of Science on a sustainable groundwater project.”

Professor Thomas’ expertise has been called upon by the International Atomic Energy Agency and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation. He has also been appointed to a UNESCO Chair in the Development of a Sustainable Geoenvironment. More recently he has been exploring the possibilities of underground heat as sources of renewable energy.

Professor Aggleton, born in Cardiff, joined the University’s School of Psychology in 1994. When he started his research, ideas about how day-to-day events are remembered were heavily focussed on one part of the brain called the hippocampus. Professor Aggleton’s highly influential research has revealed the roles of other brain structures to create a far more comprehensive picture of how different types of memory are formed and recalled.

Visit our study pages for more information on education in Wales.

Dance drama Chitrangada performed at RWCMD

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday 17th April 2012 saw a performance of dance drama ‘Chitrangada’, based on the play by Rabinoranath Tagore, in the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff.

The performance was attended by over 130 people, including invited guests Jitendra Kumar, 1st secretary at the Indian High Commission in London, Welsh Minister for Finance and Leader of the House Jane Hutt AM, Mr P Ravichandran from the Nehru Centre and Principal of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Hilary Boulding.

The Cardiff performance, which was arranged by the India Centre with support from the College and the Welsh Government, was part of a wider UK programme organised by the Nehru Centre.

500 new jobs planned as Toyoda Gosei opens

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones will welcome a major boost to manufacturing in Wales when he officially opens Toyoda Gosei’s new site in Gorseinon today (Thursday 19 April 2012).

The Japanese car parts company plans to create more than 500 new jobs at the plant over the next five years. The Welsh Government backed facility will produce interior parts for cars from this year and Toyoda Gosei has invested more than £10 million in the factory.

The automotive industry is central to the economy of Wales, with 150 companies employing over 20,000 people.

The First Minister said:

"This is another vote of confidence in Wales and Welsh manufacturing. This investment, supported by the Welsh Government, will create 500 new highly skilled jobs. This is a real boost for the local economy.

"It is a pleasure to celebrate the grand opening of this new site. The fact Toyoda Gosei opted to place this factory here in Wales shows that as a country we have a workforce that can compete for world-class manufacturing facilities. My government will continue to do all that we can to help Toyoda Gosei grow and prosper."

100 days to go and counting!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today marks 100 days until the official opening of the London 2012 Olympics on 27th July. The Millennium Stadium in Cardiff has the honour of hosting the very first event of the Games, with women's football matches starting on 25th July. It will also be hosting the men's bronze medal match later on in the games. The football tournament will see some of the top players in the world taking part as well the stars of the future .

Wales is also hosting a number of teams for pre games training leading up to the London Olympic and Paralympic Games including New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, and South Africa.

More glowing reviews for Swansea

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Swansea is continuing to enjoy success both on and off the pitch thanks to the exposure it’s receiving as its football team continues to enjoy the benefits of playing in the Premier League.

Swansea gained a 3-0 victory over Blackburn at home this weekend but also got some well deserved coverage in football’s respected Four Four Two magazine which boasts over a dozen foreign editions. It described Swansea as “classy, vibrant and metropolitan city with some of the friendliest people on Earth.”

This coverage comes on top of various positive features about the city in football magazines around the world. The nearby Gower beaches also recently received praise from American writer Michael Kew, a Santa Barbara-based surfer.

For more details, read the full article on Wales Online.

First Minister meets Indian Minister Kapil Sibal

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As part of his visit to India First Minister Carwyn Jones met with Minister for Human Resource Development Shri Kapil Sibal yesterday, to identify areas of future cooperation between Wales and India. The Minister’s portfolio covers Education; he is also the Minister for Communications and Information Technology.

The meeting coincided with the launch of a new partnership between Cardiff Metropolitan University and Planet EDU, geared towards providing distance learning for students. This innovative partnership will offer both undergraduate and postgraduate management programmes across India.

First Minister launches Welsh products in India

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

On the 11th April 2012 First Minister Carwyn Jones launched a new range of products from leading Baglan-based natural cosmetics company Montagne Jeunesse; a successful South Wales based business which specialises in natural beauty products. Montagne Jeunesse’s range of cruelty free and environmentally friendly body care and beauty products is being launched in conjunction with its partner in India, Smart Brand.

First Minister’s trade mission to India

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has touched down in India (11 April 2012) for a three day trade mission to promote Wales as a place to invest, visit and do business.

Accompanying him will be a delegation of Welsh business and academic representatives who will aim to raise the profile of Wales. The visit will begin in the capital New Delhi where the First Minister will hold talks with representatives from the Indian Government, host an event to promote Wales as a tourism destination and conduct interviews with the Indian media.

Whilst in New Delhi he will also launch the products of Montagne Jeunesse, a successful South Wales based beauty-product business which specialises in natural beauty products.

The First Minister will attend a cultural event with the British Council where he will highlight how Cardiff is hosting the 2013 Womex world music showcase, the most important international professional market of world music. The UK High Commissioner and UK Trade & Invest will then brief the First Minister on the trade and business opportunities presented by India.

The trade mission will then move Mumbai, India’s financial and business centre where the First Minister will meet with representatives from Tata Group, owners of Tata Steel Europe, a major employer in Wales.

The Welsh Government will host a business lunch for Indian companies before the First Minister meets with the Chief Minister of Maharashtra state, Prithviraj Chavan. Maharashtra state is the wealthiest in India and has a population thought to be close to 112 million.

The First Minister will also hold interviews with media from the state before attending a reception with the British Deputy High Commissioner in the city. Parts of the trade delegation will then move onto Bangalore, another major commercial city if India.

The First Minister said:

"The bonds between Wales and India are already strong and well established and I am visiting the country to strengthen further our open, positive relationship.

"I am under no illusions that Wales is but one of many nations vying for the attention of India and that is why the Welsh Government wants to continue to build our partnership so we can generate more business, education and cultural links.

"Indian businesses already employ a significant number of people in Wales. From the Tata Steel and Tritech, through to the pharmaceutical companies Wockhardt UK and Bilcare, the Welsh-Indian business relationship is already a reality and I want to see it strengthened.

"Wales has so much to offer India. Top-class education facilities, a highly skilled workforce and excellent opportunities for Indian businesses and investors to set up their European operations here in Wales. My visit is about how our two nations can work together to mutual benefit and ultimately create jobs."

Recently the Welsh Government reiterated its commitment to developing economic and educational links with India when it announced a further three years funding of £300,000 for the UK India Education Research Initiative (UKIERI). The funding will help Welsh universities, who are committed to working with their Indian counterparts to access funding to support their research, innovation and educational activity in the global economy.

To further promote partnership working the trade mission will include Cardiff, Cardiff Metropolitan, Glyndwr and Bangor universities.

Find out about our links with India in our International pages.

First Minister’s visit to India begins

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has touched down in India for the start of a three day trade mission to promote Wales as a place to invest, visit and do business.

Accompanying him will be a delegation of Welsh business and academic representatives who will aim to raise the profile of Wales. The visit will begin in the capital New Delhi where the First Minister will hold talks with representatives from the Indian Government, host an event to promote Wales as a tourism destination and conduct interviews with the Indian media.

Welsh producers at Singapore food show

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 5 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

One of the world’s biggest food trade events takes place later this month, when the biennial FHA (Food & Hotel Asia) Singapore opens its doors.

Taking part will be a number of Welsh food and drink producers who are exhibiting at the event in Singapore as part of the Welsh Government's Wales the True Taste Pavilion.

First held in 1978, FHA has been the premier sourcing platform for food and hospitality trade buyers in South East Asia, and an estimated 40,000 trade visitors from over 90 countries will attend this year's event held at the Singapore Expo, with around 2,600 companies from 65 countries and regions exhibiting.

Singapore is a highly attractive and increasingly important market for food and drink producers, and in 2010 UK food and drink exports to the country grew by 80% to £38.5 million.

With one of the highest per capita income levels in the world Singapore's increasingly sophisticated and health conscious consumers are fuelling demand, in particular, for healthy, organic, natural and functional foods. While the country has a growing tourism market attracting nearly ten million tourists annually.

Singapore's free port status ensures it remains the major hub for product distribution throughout the South East Asian Region, including Hong Kong and Thailand. In addition its open, duty free market only imposes tarrifs on liquors.

Among the companies exhibiting at the Wales the True Taste Pavilion is The Anglesey Sea Salt Company, which began with a saucepan of water from the Menai Straits on the Aga in the Lea-Wilson family's kitchen. Now exported around the globe the company's hand harvested sea salt is used by some of the world¹s best chefs and restaurants.

At the Show a selection of products will be exhibited including a new range of sea salt gifts, as well as salted caramel sauce, laverbread, crisps and pork scratchings all made with the company's award-winning Halen Môn sea salt.

Also exhibiting will be Real Crisps, which produces a range of handcooked crisps, using the best potatoes and combining classic and innovative flavours. The company, which is owned by the Tayto Group the UK's third largest manufacturer of crisps and snacks - has been making crisps at its South Wales manufacturing base since 1997. Among the group range on show in Singapore will be eight Real Crisp flavours, four flavours of Real Chips, as well as flavours from re-vamped sister brand Jonathan's Crisps.

Llanllyr Spring Water supplies many of the world's top restaurants and hotels. This international award winning company will be showing a range of its still and sparkling premium bottled water in glass, 330ml and 750ml, and 100% recyclable 330ml sparkling cans. A carbon neutral company, the water is drawn from certified organic land and a donation is made from every bottle sold to the charity 'Just a Drop', providing clean water around the world where there is none.

Rhug Estate's organic farm covers around 6,000 acres of North Wales and produces award-winning organic beef, lamb, salt marsh lamb, chicken, pork, turkeys, geese and game which are used by top restaurants and chefs across the UK and exported around the globe including the Far East. The company, which is headed by Lord Newborough, will be showing a range of its meat, including cuts of venison. In addition, a selection of Rhug's award-winning organic pies will also be on show in Singapore, along with the company's pâtés.

Burts Biscuits and Cakes Limited is the export arm of Ogmore Vale Bakery, which has been run by the Burt family for nearly 70 years.
At FHA the company will be showing its latest product - Welsh Whisky Cake - as well as its full range of fruited cakes and novelty shortbread.
Burts currently exports to the USA, Asia and Europe, while retaining its UK distribution and home retail business with a number of high street stores in South Wales selling a wide range of bakery goods.

Product tastings sessions will be held at the Wales the True Taste stand featuring products from the companies exhibiting at the show and also the traditional teatime favourite, Welsh cakes.

Paralympics New Zealand Swim Team train in Swansea

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 4 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Paralympics New Zealand Swim Team had a taste of Swansea life last week while training there in preparation for the British International Disability Swimming Championships (BIDSC) which starts on Friday.

The team trained at the Wales National Pool between 28th March – 2nd April and described the facilities there as “fantastic”.

You can read about what the Paralympics New Zealand Swim Team got up to in Swansea on their news page – including a day out to Mumbles, one of Wales’ beautiful seaside villages. There are a few photos of the team’s visit on the Paralympics New Zealand Facebook page too.

The Paralympics New Zealand team will be back in Wales in August for pre Games training in the run up to the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

A number of countries have chosen Wales for their pre Games training camps to acclimatise and fine tune preparations to compete in London 2012.

The world’s greatest sporting event will spread wider than London this summer – find out about Wales’ role in London 2012.

Wales marks Earth Hour

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 2 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Some of Wales’s most iconic landmarks, including Tintern Abbey, Castell Coch and the castles at Caernarfon, Kidwelly and Llansteffan were left in darkness on Saturday night (31 March) to mark the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) Earth Hour initiative.

The Cadw owned sites, along with other iconic landmarks such as the Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd, turned off their lights between 8.30-9.30pm, as part of a worldwide initiative to raise awareness of environmental and sustainability issues.

Last year a record 1.8 billion people across 138 countries took part, including thousands of people from Wales, and Cadw once again encouraged people to join the initiative by signing up and switching off.

Huw Lewis, Minister for Housing Regeneration and Housing said,

“From Wales’s coastal and maritime heritage to ancient buildings and sites, it’s vital that as a nation we work towards a greener environment to safeguard our country’s diverse and unique heritage for future generations to explore.

“The Earth Hour blackout of these iconic buildings provides a poignant picture of how Wales could look if we don’t consider our natural environment.”

John Griffiths, Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development, said,

"The Welsh Government is committed to tackling the challenges presented by climate change and is pleased to support Earth Hour. Lights will be turned off at many major sites across our estate and we are encouraging other public sector bodies in Wales to do the same.

“I urge people across Wales to join hundreds of millions of people around the world in switching off non-essential lights on Saturday evening. This is your chance to make a contribution, however small, to a world-wide event which highlights concerns about our planet's future."

Walking Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve been lucky enough to have some sunshine in Wales this week, which makes it the perfect time to explore our beautiful landscape. Wales is full of perfect places for exploring on foot.

This weekend walkers will test their powers of endurance at the South Wales Three Peaks Trial. Taking place this Saturday (31st March), hundreds of walkers will descend on the Brecon Beacons to take on the challenge of climbing three mountains – the hardest route talking participants over Crug Mawr, Pen Cerrig Calch and Sugar Loaf.

Another big date for the walking calendar is the official opening of the Wales Coast Path – 5th May 2012. Wales will become the only country in the world with a continuous coastal path, stretching some 870 miles. A number of events have been planned to mark the official opening of the path including the Big Welsh Coastal Walk.

In the run up to its official opening, travel Writer David Atkinson is currently walking the Wales Coast Path and writing exclusive blogs for Visit Wales along the way.

The sun also gives a great excuse to discover our beaches and coastline. Wales has some of the UK’s top rated Blue Flag beaches.

Although the sun doesn’t need to be out to explore the great outdoors. Our landscapes can be enjoyed all year round.

If you’re thinking about planning a short walking break to Wales, take a look at our sister site Visit Wales.

London 2012: Line-up announced for Cardiff concert

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The line-up has been announced for a concert to celebrate the arrival of the Olympic torch in Cardiff in May.

Rock band You Me At Six, Brit award winner Emeli Sandé and Cardiff-born Kids In Glass Houses will perform at the free event in Cooper's Field which will be held as part of the Olympic torch relay celebrations.

The ticketed show, for 16,000 people, will be held on 25 May as Cardiff hosts the London 2012 Olympic torch relay.

The torch will be in Wales between May 25, when it arrives in Monmouth, and May 30, when it leaves after visiting Welshpool.

Music concerts will be held around the UK in the build-up to the Games.

There will be music and celebrations in all parts of the UK with 66 nights of celebrations during the Olympic torch relay. The relay begins on 19 May at Land's End and ends 70 days later on 27 July at the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium in London.

The event in Cardiff is one of four Special City Celebrations to feature leading musicians, with further large-scale, free concerts being held in Glasgow on 8 June, Leeds on 24 June and Birmingham on 30 June.

A finale concert will be held in London's Hyde Park on 26 July - the day before the opening ceremony.

New Children’s Literature Festival for Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cardiff is to host its first ever Children’s Literature Festival in 2013. The Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival will take place on Wednesday 20 - Sunday 24 March 2013. It will bring together some of the best contemporary children’s writers and illustrators.

Celebrated children’s author Jacqueline Wilson is the first to be confirmed for the festival programme. "I am delighted to have been asked to take part in Cardiff’s first festival dedicated to young readers" said the former Children’s Laureate. "Books enable children to become explorers, both of themselves and the wider world, and it’s vastly important that they are celebrated and encouraged."

The Festival will enable young people to meet and interact with some of the most creative minds in children’s books. It will promote literacy and the arts with an inventive and accessible programme of cultural events in key venues across Cardiff, in both the Welsh and English language.

"We will transform Cardiff into a wonderland of myths and magical characters" says Literature Wales’ Chief Executive Lleucu Siencyn "What better way to start a jam-packed year of literary activities for children and young people than to awake their creativity with a major festival in the capital city".

The Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival is organised by Literature Wales, Cardiff Council, Cardiff University and The National Museum of Wales.

More information about the festival will be released throughout the year by Literature Wales.

First Official Doctor Who Convention in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff will open its doors to the first official Doctor Who Convention since the series returned to screens in 2005.

Taking place this weekend (24 – 25 March 2012), the Convention will give Doctor Who enthusiasts a rare chance to see behind-the-scenes of the world’s longest running sci-fi show.

Stars of the show (including the Doctor himself, Matt Smith) will take part in panel discussions along with the Creators and Directors of Doctor Who.

Fans will have a chance to delve into the inner workings of the hit TV show and learn how it’s created. The Doctor Who special effects production team will show spectators how they create effects, with live demonstrations of pyrotechnics. Plus prosthetic demonstrations by the team responsible for creating many of the monsters and characters that have been featured on-screen since 2005.

Fans are even being offered the chance to tour the TARDIS.

Yesterday, the BBC announced that actress Jenna-Louise Coleman will become Doctor Who’s latest companion.

Filming for the seventh series of the sci-fi drama began last month in Cardiff.

Five Welsh festivals for 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Spring is in the air and it’s got us thinking about how great it is to be outdoors…and what’s better than a festival? If you’re starting to think about festival plans for the summer, we’ve got a great mix of festivals in Wales, little and large. Here are some to look out for:

Green Man Festival
17 – 19 August 2012
Set in Glanusk Park in the Brecon Beacons, Green Man has grown to become one of the most attended music festivals in Wales. A happy, relaxed and independent music festival (not to mention the great line up) set in some of Wales’ most beautiful scenery.

Wakestock
6 – 8 July 2012
Wakestock is Europe’s largest wakeboard music festival. It’s all about the world's best wakeboarders, great bands & DJs overlooking the sandy beaches lining Cardigan Bay, North Wales. Ed Sheeran headlines on the Sunday.

Hay Festival
31 May—10 June 2012
The world’s most famous literary and arts festival. When Bill Clinton came to town he called it ‘the Woodstock of the mind’. Past programme events and performances crossed literature with cabaret, cinema, circus, comedy, environment, film, music, politics, science, screenwriting and visual arts. Children's Festival Hay Fever runs alongside the Hay Festival every year.

Dinefwr Literature Festival
29 June – 1 July 2012
A new festival for 2012 celebrating Wales' literature and landscape. Dinefwr is promising an eclectic mix of high quality literature, music, comedy and cinema. Writer Howard Marks, musicians Julian Cope and Gruff Rhys and poets Sir Andrew Motion and Gillian Clarke have just been confirmed as part of the line up.

Abergavenny Food Festival
15 -16 September 2012
Local produce and international delicacies, celebrity chefs, masterclasses, tastings and street stalls. Abergavenny Food Festival is one of the biggest events on the UK foodie calendar.

There’s plenty more great festivals too! Find more festivals taking place in Wales this year on our music and arts pages.

Six Nations: Grand Slam victory for Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales is celebrating after a 16-9 win over France at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff on Saturday, taking the Six Nations title and winning their third grand slam in eight seasons.

Speaking from the Millennium Stadium after Wales’ Grand Slam victory over France, First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said:

“Today, we witnessed the arrival of a new generation of Welsh rugby heroes – a group of players who have equalled the success of those great Welsh teams of the past.

"The pressure was entirely on Wales to perform today and they won in style. This match - more than any other in this year's Six Nations tournament - showed just how mature this young team really is.

“In the space of just five months, they have reached the World Cup Semi-Final and won the Grand Slam. Today, Welsh rugby moved up a significant notch. We are now without doubt, the predominant rugby team in the Northern Hemisphere.

"My congratulations go to the players, to Warren Gatland and the coaching staff for what they've achieved for our country today. They have made Wales proud.”

The Welsh Government will congratulate the Grand Slam winning Wales rugby squad and their coaching and backroom team in a ceremony at The Senedd today (March 19) on behalf of the people of Wales.

Fans are being invited to watch the ceremony on the steps of the Senedd to add their own tributes to the squad.

The event is being supported by the Welsh Rugby Union as an opportunity for the squad to show their gratitude to the supporters who have inspired them to victory in all their RBS 6 Nations 2012 games.

The event will start at 6pm on Monday March 19 when the squad arrives at the Senedd to be greeted at a private reception hosted by the First Minister and the Presiding Officer.

Wales Captain Sam Warburton and Head Coach Warren Gatland will then lead the squad, coaches and backroom team onto the steps to greet the fans.

That moment will be the signal for the crowd to show their appreciation of how the team has beaten all their international opposition to claim the ultimate international prize in the northern hemisphere.

The First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones said:

"This victory is a fantastic reflection of the talent, grit and determination our team has displayed throughout the tournament. I want to congratulate them on making the nation proud and taking our Grand Slam tally to three in the last eight years.

"On Monday we will welcome the team to the steps of the Senedd so the people of Wales can come together to celebrate this remarkable sporting achievement."

London 2012: Torchbearers and Relay route revealed

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) today confirmed over 7,300 inspiring people who will be carrying the Flame in the Olympic Torch Relay.

An average of 115 Torchbearers a day will carry the Flame during its 8,000-mile journey around the UK before it arrives at the Olympic Stadium on 27 July at the Olympic Opening Ceremony.

More than 80 Welsh towns, villages and cities will see a glimpse of the torch as the relay passes through Wales from 25-30 May.

It will arrive in Monmouth on May 25, six days after the relay starts in Land’s End, before being carried through south and west Wales, up Cardigan Bay and across north Wales, leaving Welshpool on May 30.

A street-by-street online map has been released today by LOCOG as well as details of Torchbearers who will carry the Flame in the relay.

LOCOG have also released some of the highlights of the relay. In Wales, they include a trip to the summit of Snowdon on the Snowdon Mountain Railway and a ride on the land train along the Promenade at Mumbles.

A free 16,000-ticket concert, Move to the Beat, will be held in Cardiff's Coopers Field on Friday, May 25, while Swansea, Aberystwyth and Bangor are all planning events.

London 2012 will kick off in Cardiff on 25 July with football at the Millennium Stadium, two days before the event officially begins in London.

RBS Six Nations: Wales’ Grand Slam game

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales will take on France this Saturday (17th March) at the Millennium Stadium - Cardiff, in their final game of the RBS Six Nations Championship.

Unbeaten so far, a win for Wales will mean the RBS Six Nations title and a Grand Slam. In the last RBS Six Nations Championship in 2008, Wales’ victory over France provided them with a perfect 10 of Grand Slams.

Wales last played France in the Rugby World Cup semi-final in Auckland last October - a game where Wales’ World Cup hopes were dashed after being defeated, 9-8, by France.

Sam Warburton will return as captain after a knee injury for Wales’ final game of the championship. The full line up for this Saturday has been announced by the Welsh Rugby Union.

It’s set to be an exciting Saturday here in Wales. The sell out Grand Slam showdown at the Millennium Stadium is said to be attracting 250,000 people to Cardiff, with big screens showing the match in the city centre.

Brush up on the Welsh National Anthem ahead of tomorrow and join in with a full house at the Millennium Stadium.

Pob lwc (good luck) Wales!

View First Minister Carwyn Jones' good luck video message to the team.

Welsh music gets an international showcase

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh music has had a platform in Texas this week as musicians and businesses from across Wales descended on South by South West (SXSW), one of the world’s biggest and most important music showcase festivals in Austin, 13th-18th March 2012.

Three Welsh acts were chosen to perform at the festival; Skindred (voted Best UK Live Act 2011 at Golden God Awards by readers of Metal Hammer Magazine), Future of the Left; one of Wales' most critically-lauded exports and Siôn Russell Jones; who has been championed by Craig Charles on BBC Radio 2.

Cerdd Cymru, in association with Swn Festival, have been responsible for taking Wales to the festival. The three acts took to the stage yesterday (14th March 2012) at the Wales Showcase at the British Music Embassy in the centre of the festival strip.

But it’s not just the artists who are in Texas. Selected Welsh music industry enterprises are taking part in a trade mission to SXSW organised to build relationships and business opportunities with music professionals internationally which has been supported by the Welsh Government.

With international bookers, promoters, record labels, agents, media and brand managers at the festival, it’s an incredible opportunity for Welsh musicians and the Welsh music industry. It’s also another step for Swn Festival as their first time curating at SXSW and their first event overseas.

The Welsh presence at SXSW has been made possible by Cerdd Cymru : Music Wales, a new partnership between Welsh Music Foundation and Wales Arts International, and Arts Council of Wales who recently announced their success in bringing another leading music expo, WOMEX, to Cardiff next year.

Find out more about music in Wales and our festivals and events.

Wales talks tourism with the US

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones was in the USA last week promoting Wales with a packed schedule of meetings and events (Weds 7th to Sunday 11th March).

Starting off in Washington DC, the First Minister then went on to New York to undertake a series of meetings and events around business, tourism and cultural links as well as opening the Jewish Tales of Wales Film Festival.

At a tourism roundtable event at the Harvard Club the First Minister met tourism operators and media to highlight Wales as a tourist destination.

The First Minister said;

"Tourism is an important sector and a sector that we recognise needs to be developed in years to come."

"From our point of view it's important to understand what the needs of US visitors are and where we can improve the offering we can make to satisfy those needs."

"It's right to say that we are working very hard to try and promote tourism from the States and from Canada. We had the Ryder Cup held last year which was a boost for us."

President of the United States Tour Operators Association, Terry Dale said;

"Certainly this opportunity to talk about tourism growth and development in your country sends a strong message to our industry."

“Wales can capitalize on the trend in experiential tourism or "the e-factor" which is becoming more and more popular in international travel. Wales has that e-factor because it has so many unique offerings that allow visitors to touch, taste, and immerse themselves in the country and its wonderful, friendly people.”

You can see how the First Minister of Wales got on in the US by looking at our Flickr set of his visit.

If you’re interested in planning a trip to Wales, our sister site Visit Wales has plenty of information to help you.

Three events to open Welsh Coast Path

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Environment Minister, John Griffiths, has announced that three events will open the 870 mile / 1,400km Wales Coast Path on Saturday 5 May 2012 (a Bank Holiday weekend).

Celebratory opening events will be held at Flint Castle in North Wales, Aberystwyth Promenade, Ceredigion in Mid Wales and South Wales’ event will be at Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay. Detailed arrangements for the events will be announced soon.

These events will reflect the importance of the Wales Coast Path and showcase sections of the Path, local heritage and points of interest. All events will highlight the health, economic and social benefits associated with improved countryside access.

The Minster said:

“The opening of the Path will be an exciting day for Wales. We will become the first country in the world to have a formal trail the whole way around our coast.

“The Path opens just before the world's eyes will be on the UK for the Olympics. We hope many of the extra visitors coming to London for the Games will take time to visit Wales and its coast.

"Since this project began in 2007 we have created over 130 miles of new path and improved more than 330 miles of existing pathway. When open, the Path will provide a real boost to local economies around Wales' coastline.”

Ramblers Cymru are organising the Big Welsh Coastal Walk, to celebrate the official opening of the Wales Coast Path. The Big Welsh Coastal Walk will be a series of led walks along the Coast Path over its opening weekend. The aim is to get as many people as possible walking around the coast of Wales in the largest mass participation event Wales has ever seen.

The Wales Coast Path has been developed by the Welsh Government in partnership with the Countryside Council for Wales, 16 local authorities and two National Parks.

In addition to funding from the Welsh Government and coastal local authorities of approximately £2 million per year, the European Regional Development fund has allocated nearly £4 million over four years in support of the project.

Completing the Wales Coast Path is a Programme for Government key action for creating sustainable places for people in Wales.

First Minister opens US Film Festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As part of his visit to the US, the First Minister invited representatives of the city of New York and partners in arts and media to see the play Look Back in Anger starring Matthew Rhys on Saturday evening. Guests included Bryn Terfel, who is appearing in Don Giovanni at the Met, and movie director Sara Sugarman, pictured here with the First Minister and Matthew Rhys.

On Sunday morning, Jewish Tales of Wales Film Festival at the Jewish Museum of Heritage was opened by the First Minister who talked about the rich diversity within the Welsh people and the contribution that Jews have made and continue to do so to Welsh life: citing Dannie Abse and the two film directors Gideon Koppel and Sara Sugarman as examples.

The movies shown were Solomon and Gaenor (Paul Morrison) and Sleep Furiously (Gideon Koppel) followed by a Q and A with Gideon. The event is a partnership between the MJH and the Welsh Government New York and is sponsored by Bangor University. The series is presented by Dr Nathan Abrams of Bangor University.

A third film Very Annie Mary will be shown on Wednesday and the festival will end with a Q and A with its director Sara Sugarman.

Find out more about Welsh events taking place in the US this spring.

New studios a boost for Welsh creative industries

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The creative industries in Wales entered a new stage when First Minister Carwyn Jones officially opened the BBC Cymru Wales’ Roath Lock studio complex in Cardiff Bay today, Monday 12 March 2012.

The studios are part of the Welsh Government owned and backed Porth Teigr development, which is being developed in partnership with "igloo" - an Aviva Investors Real Estate Fund.

Porth Teigr is a strategically important mixed-use development that will provide up to 2 million sq ft of commercial, retail and residential space, creating an economic stimulus for South Wales. BBC Cymru Wales’ 175,000 sq ft complex is the first completed building on the site.

The studios are home to popular BBC TV productions such as Doctor Who, Casualty and Upstairs Downstairs. A new Russell T. Davies project is due to start filming on site in the spring.

Roath Lock is the size of three football pitches, has nine studios and three external filming lots.

The complex is the first industrial building in the UK to be given a Breeam outstanding certificate for its green credentials, the highest possible environmental rating.

The First Minister said:

"This studio complex is a major step forward for the creative industries in Wales and will be home to famous TV productions that are viewed across the world. The creative industries, from TV, film and theatre are of major importance to our economy, supporting jobs and investment and the Welsh Government is determined for this to continue. BBC Cymru Wales' Roath Lock is a symbol of what Wales can achieve and the bright future we have ahead of us.

Read more about the opening on the BBC website

Welsh sport: Football and rugby this weekend

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 9 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It’s another exciting weekend for sport in Wales.

In rugby, Wales take on Italy this weekend in the 2012 RBS 6 Nations Championship. Gethin Jenkins will lead the team in the absence of captain Sam Warburton in the match at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday – 10th March 2012.

Wales took home the Triple Crown after their last match in the tournament against England. If they defeat Italy this Saturday, the Welsh squad will still be on track to achieve a Grand Slam.

In football, Swansea City take on Manchester City at home at the Liberty Stadium. The match this Sunday is attracting quite a bit of attention to Swansea. The Manchester Evening News described the Welsh city as a top-flight destination. Even Germany will be reading all about Swansea with a journalist and a photographer from a top German football magazine attending the game.

First Minister in the USA: The visit so far

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 9 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones is in the USA this week to promote Wales as a business destination.

The visit is taking place from Wednesday 7th - Sunday 11th March, with a packed schedule of meetings and events for the First Minister in both Washington DC and New York.

The First Minister began his visit to the USA with a business breakfast meeting for representatives of some of the biggest companies in the defence and aerospace sector. But it wasn't all about American companies, also represented were some of the Welsh companies in this sector who have expanded into the lucrative US defence market.

Following an interview with the Washington Post and some one-to-one company visits, the First Minister ended the first day of his programme with an evening Reception at the official residence of the British Ambassador for 200 invited guests.

The First Minister is now in New York undertaking a series of meeting and events around business, tourism and cultural links.

International Women’s Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 8 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It’s International Women’s Day today and celebrations are taking place all over Wales.

Polar explorer, Tori James, will give a keynote lecture at an event today celebrating International Women’s Day. Hosted by the Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales, the event will take place in Cardiff Bay.

International Women's Day is celebrating its 101st anniversary, and concentrates on globally raising awareness of equality.

The Wales Millennium Centre have invited Patti Flynn to host World Women’s Stories - a morning of inspirational stories from a whole host of inspirational women.

Swansea University are marking the day with a public exhibition - Swansea Women: “Because They’re Worth It”. The exhibition celebrates the lives and achievements of successful - and sometimes famous - female graduates, from the early days of Swansea University.

Amongst the diverse range of graduates featured in the exhibition are politicians Siân James and Sylvia Heal, Mary Williams who became the first female professor in Britain, writer and broadcaster Mavis Nicholson, Olympic swimming hopeful Jazmin Carlin, TV journalist Penny Roberts, and Emily Dix, who was a leading palaeontologist and who received an MSc in 1926 for her work on the stratification of the Gwendraeth valley coal-field.

Find out about events happening all across Wales for International Women’s Day.

All-Wales Coast Path: Two months to go

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 7 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Imagine being able to walk the entire length of a country’s coastline - well you’ll soon be able to do that here in Wales.

With less than two months to go until its official opening, everyone is talking about the Wales Coast Path.

Due to be officially opened on 5th May 2012, the Wales Coast Path will see Wales become unique in being the only country in the world with a continuous coastal path, stretching some 870 miles from the Welsh border, near Chester, in the North to Chepstow in the South.

Travel gurus, Lonely Planet have even chosen the Wales Coast Path as the “World’s best destination for 2012”.

In the run up to its official opening, travel Writer David Atkinson is currently walking the Wales Coast Path and writing exclusive blogs for Visit Wales along the way.

Wales Online have also asked some Welsh celebrities about their favourite spot along our dramatic coastline.

To mark the official opening of the Wales Coast Path on 5th May, the Big Welsh Coastal Walk, is being organised by Ramblers Cymru. The ambition is to get as many people as possible walking around the coast of Wales in perhaps the largest mass participation event Wales has ever seen.

First Minister promotes Wales in the United States

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 7 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones will take the message that Wales is open and ready for business when he touches down in the USA this week.

He will be in Washington DC and New York (from Weds 7th to Sunday 11th March) to promote Wales as a business destination with a packed schedule of meetings and events.

In Washington DC he will be highlighting the success of the aerospace and defence sector in Wales to business leaders at an event being organised in conjunction with UK Trade & investment (UKTI). He will also hold talks with the UK’s Deputy Ambassador and General Dynamics, a major investor in Wales.

The First Minister will visit the US offices of FAUN TRACKWAY, an Anglesey based Welsh manufacturing firm that has expanded in the United States. In the evening the First Minister will host a business reception jointly hosted with the UK Deputy Ambassador.

In New York he will host a business breakfast with the His Excellency Peter Westmacott, the newly appointed British Ambassador to Washington, Danny Lopez, British Consul General in New York and Sir Terry Matthews, Welsh born entrepreneur and UK Trade & investment (UKTI). The event will promote innovation in Wales. He will then meet tourism operators and media to highlight Wales as a tourist destination.

In the evening the First Minister will be presented with the Hopkins medal by the St David’s Society for the State of New York in recognition for services to Wales. He will attend a performance of ‘Look Back in Anger’ starring Welsh actor Matthew Rhys and attend ‘Jewish Tales from Wales: a film series’, a Welsh Government backed event to promote Welsh – Jewish links.

The First Minister said:

"The US remains the world’s economic and political power house and that is why I will be taking a strong message that Wales is open and ready for business. We have a great workforce and a fantastic track record of welcoming of providing a welcome, supportive home to US companies. That’s why companies like Conduit and DRIAS Transnat chose Wales for their base into Europe.

"There are approximately 210 companies in Wales that are either US headquartered or owned. Between them these employ in the order of 30,000 people. They cover sectors such as aerospace, with the likes of General Electric and Magellan, through to the automotive sector with Ford, and life sciences companies like Biomet and ConvaTec. I want to build on this success and show the US what we have to offer. My government’s aim is to attract more American investment to Wales, while at the same time supporting Welsh businesses to expand their operations in the USA."

London 2012: Welsh swimmers qualify for Team GB

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 6 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Georgia Davies and Ieuan Lloyd have become the first two Welsh swimmers to book their places at the London 2012 Olympics.

Davies, from Swansea, qualified for the Olympic Games 100m backstroke at the British Championships last night and Penarth swimmer Ieuan Lloyd finished second in his 200m freestyle heat to qualify for the Great Britain relay team at the London 2012 Olympics.

The pair join sailor Hannah Mills and boxers Fred Evans and Andrew Selby as Welsh competitors who have qualified to compete in this year’s Olympic Games as part of Team GB.

Have a look at our London 2012 pages to read the full biographies of Welsh competitors who have been selected to compete at London 2012.

St David’s Day celebrations

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 5 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Welsh flag was flying across the world on Thursday 1st March to celebrate our national day, St David’s Day.

There were celebrations around the globe including events in China, Brussels and the USA. There was a lot going on in London too. Welsh food and drink was on offer at a number of stores and Welsh food producers featured at a St David's True Taste Market at the Real Food Market in London's South Bank Centre. An event jointly hosted by the Welsh Government and BAFTA in London took place to showcase Wales - not just as a great location to film, but also to promote the thriving creative industry sector in Wales.

Here in Wales, we popped out to the St David’s Day Parade in Cardiff. Thousands of people filled the streets of our capital city to take part in the parade. There were a few familiar faces too. Have a look at our photos of the parade and see who you can spot.

St David’s Day doesn’t have to be over yet - there’s still time to try our St David’s Day quiz and test you knowledge of Wales. You even get a certificate!

How did you celebrate St David’s Day? If you have any stories or pictures of your celebrations we’d love to hear from you.

Happy St David’s Day!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 1 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We're all celebrating St David's Day in Wales today.

On 1 March each year we celebrate our patron Saint, Dewi Sant or St David who died on that day in 589AD. To mark the day, Welsh people around the world wear one or both of our national emblems - a daffodil or leek -and celebrate at special concerts and processions.

Find out what's going on here and around the world on our events pages. Or, you can try our interactive St David's Day quiz.

For a full run down on how to make the most of Wales' national day (including recipes and children's activities), have a look at our St David’s Day pages.

If you're on twitter, use #stdavidsday #dyddgwyldewi to show your support and let us know how you're celebrating. We'll be tweeting updates @walesdotcom

Happy St David’s Day! Dydd Gwyl Dewi hapus!

Welsh flag flies around the world

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 1 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Welsh flag flies around the world

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 1 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Welsh flag is flying around the world today (1 March) to celebrate our national day - St David's Day.

St David's Day wishes from the USA

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 1 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Statement by Secretary Clinton on the Occasion of St. David’s Day in Wales

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Wales as you celebrate St. David’s Day this March 1 (2012).

This is an opportunity to reaffirm the strong bonds that unite us and to reflect on the rich and varied contributions Welsh people have made to America over the centuries. Several of our founding fathers – including former Presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams – were able to claim Welsh ancestry. Today, almost two million people living in the U.S. can trace their roots back to Wales. I am proud to say that I am one of them.

But there is far more to our enduring relationship than our heritage. Today, we enjoy shared values, extensive cultural exchange, and benefit from a vibrant trade in goods, services and knowledge. As we continue to deepen these ties, our friendship will only grow stronger.

As you celebrate this special day with family, friends and loved ones, know that the United States is committed to strengthening our partnership as we work together to build a more peaceful and prosperous future for all our people.

Source: US Embassy website

World Book Day 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 1 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It’s World Book today and it just so happens to fall on national day this year, St David’s Day – 1st March.

To celebrate the love of the written word, the Welsh Book Council is encouraging people to give a book to mark St David's Day 2012.

We are marking the occasion by picking up some works from our favourite Welsh authors such as the famous poet, Dylan Thomas who wrote 'Under the Milk Wood' and children's favourite Roald Dahl whose books include 'Matilda' and 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'. There are plenty more Welsh writers to choose from too.

Wales is also home to one of the world’s most famous literary and arts festival – Hay Festival. When Bill Clinton came to Hay he called it ‘the Woodstock of the mind’. Find out more about literary and arts festivals in Wales.

New funding for Wales strengthens links with India

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A further three years funding of £300,000 for the UK India Education Research Initiative (UKIERI) has been announced today by Minister for Education and Skills, Leighton Andrews.

In announcing his decision, the Minister said:

“I know that Welsh universities are committed to working with their Indian counterparts and are already developing long-term partnerships.
“It is essential that our institutions are able to access UKIERI II to support their research, innovation and educational activity in the global economy.”

The funding from the Welsh Government will enable all Welsh further and higher education institutions to have access to support for the duration of the programme in fields including leadership development, innovation, vocational skills and student mobility. The second UKIERI II call for proposals closes on 15 March.

Praising the work already underway in both Wales and India, the Minister said:

“The Welsh Government is always looking for new ways to collaborate with India, so it is very pleasing to see just how successful our universities have been in applying for UKIERI II support.”

“We know that our universities have plenty to offer on the world stage, particularly in key areas such as advanced manufacturing engineering, medical engineering and energy systems and technologies.”

“The funding that I’m announcing today will ensure that we continue to build on previous achievements and further cement our academic links with India.”

Speaking about the Welsh Government’s announcement Professor Hywel Thomas at Cardiff University said:

“Previous UKIERI initiatives have helped build some very productive working relationships between Cardiff University and Indian partners. For example, our School of Engineering is working with Institutes in Madras and Tiruchirappalli on more sustainable forms of energy. We are delighted to see the Welsh Government’s commitment to this fresh UKIERI initiative and hope it will lead to further projects benefiting both Wales and India.”

Swansea University was also delighted that Welsh Government support through UKIERI is to continue for the next three years. On hearing the announcement Professor Iwan Davies noted:

“Funding won by Swansea University in the last UKIERI round is enabling the College of Health and Human Science to build research links in audiology with the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute for the Hearing Handicapped. With funding for the scheme now secure, we hope for further success with bids in this and other subject areas.”

In support of the second call for proposals, UKIERI is holding a pre-bid workshop for potential applicants at the British Council’s offices in Cardiff on 29 February. The workshop is open to all Higher and Further Education institutions.

Gary Speed Memorial Football Match

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A football match to celebrate the life and achievements of Gary Speed takes place tonight as Wales take on Costa Rica at Cardiff City Stadium.

Fans and footballers will take the opportunity to honour the late Gary Speed’s contribution to Welsh football both as a player and a manager at the match tonight.

The former Wales manager made his international debut for Wales against Costa Rica back in May 1990 at Ninian Park in Cardiff, and Wales won by a goal to nil.

A host of former Wales football internationals will honour Gary Speed at the memorial match. Ryan Giggs, John Hartson, Mark Hughes, Neville Southall and Robbie Savage are among up to 50 stars to be introduced at half-time

A number of Welsh musicians will also perform ahead of the memorial football match tonight including Bryn Terfel, Super Furry Animals and Only Men Aloud.

Tom Jones limited edition single only in Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Spillers Records in Cardiff will be the only shop in the world to stock a limited edition version of the new single from Welsh legend Sir Tom Jones and former White Stripes frontman Jack White.

There will be just 100 copies released of the tri-coloured 7in vinyl version of the single, Evil. Sir Tom himself has insisted that Spillers Records in Cardiff is the only shop in the world to stock the three-coloured vinyl single.

Spillers Records, reputed to be the world’s oldest record shop, will only have one day to sell the record. The small outlet in Cardiff, where Sir Tom Jones bought records as a teenager, will be selling the limited edition version of the single this Saturday, 3rd March.

You can listen to Sir Tom Jones’ new single - Evil, on the Thirdman Records website.

The best of Welsh cuisine in London

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Londoners will be able to celebrate St David’s Day in style with a series of free foodie events taking place across the capital to celebrate Wales Week in London 2012.

From a Welsh Food Market on the South Bank of the River Thames, tastings and tutorials, to in-store food and drink sampling, there is something for everyone.
The events are being organised under the Welsh Government’s Wales the True Taste banner in partnership with John Lewis, Waitrose, The Real Food Market and renowned grocer Partridges.

Alun Davies, Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries said:

“Wales Week in London affords us an excellent opportunity to spread the word about our food and drink. We have such a wonderful array of produce, and we want to share it with as wide an audience as we can!

“There is of course a strong link between the Welsh and London, and I hope the events planned for the city will not just evoke memories and prompt ‘hiraeth’ for some but also promote all-year-round interest in Welsh food and drink.”

The three-day St David’s Day True Taste Market at the Southbank Centre, Royal Festival Hall (March 2-4) will be a feast of Welsh food and drink excellence.
The market will showcase some of Wales’ best produce, featuring a variety of Welsh producers, along with street entertainment, recipe ideas to try at home and cookery demonstrations at the True Taste Truck (demonstration kitchen) from top chefs including James Sommerin of the Michelin starred The Crown at Whitebrook, Jim Hamilton of the Llansantffraed Court Hotel, Rhodri Edwards of Y Ffarmers, and No 18 from Crickhowell.

Elwen Roberts from Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales will be preparing Welsh Lamb for the True Taste Truck; and sampling will focus on food that is available in London/South East England or online.

On Friday and Saturday evening celebrations will include special Welsh themed cocktails created by the Wales Millennium Centre’s ffresh Bar & Restaurant, featuring Wales the True Taste award-winning ingredients!

Welsh flavour will be coming to the Kings Road on St David’s Day (March 1st) where Partridges will be holding in-store tastings including cheese, organic meats, chocolates and more. While the in-store café will feature Welsh cakes, handmade preserves, and traditional Welsh rarebit made with Welsh cheese and Monty’s Brewery Welsh ale.

Also on St David’s Day there will be special events at the John Lewis Foodhall in Oxford Street, and the Waitrose flagship store in Canary Wharf.

Shoppers in the John Lewis Foodhall will be able to sample award-winning Welsh food and drink from 17 producers and enjoy musical delights too from Welsh harpist Amanda Whiting and singer Joanne Thomas.

Whisky lovers are in for a treat too with in-store tastings from the Welsh Whisky Company, while cheese fans can learn about Welsh cheese and how to pair it with beer at three free tutored tasting sessions. There will also be a draw to win one of three True Taste hampers for participants.

Welsh farmhouse cheeses, Welsh Whisky and Brains beer will sampled at Waitrose Canary Wharf, where that traditional teatime favourite – Tan Y Castell Welsh cakes will be served to shoppers, who will also enjoy some Welsh entertainment by harpist Siobhan Swider throughout the day.

Close engagement with Europe benefits Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

First Minister Carwyn Jones has been in the heart of the European Union to highlight the importance of Wales’s relationship with Europe when he visited Brussels.

The future of EU funding for Wales will be on the agenda when he meets the Commissioner for Financial Programming & Budget, Janusz Lewandowski, and the Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn.

During his visit he will set out how a stable, vibrant European Union is vital to both the UK and Wales and how the Welsh Government is committed to remaining an active and constructive partner on the European stage.

The First Minister will also host a St David’s Day reception to promote Welsh goods and Wales as a place to invest. As well as quality Welsh lamb there will be an array of Welsh Seafood on offer, with over 10,000 tonnes exported annually alone from Anglesey to Europe, highlighting the strong links between Europe and Wales.

The First Minister said:

"I am deeply committed to maintaining and growing Wales’ relationship with Europe and that is why I am here to take this message to the heart of the EU. The harsh rhetoric of the critics of the EU often drowns out the benefits of membership. I have no doubt that communities across Wales see real benefits from our relationship with Europe.

"Look at the Common Agricultural Policy - it pays agricultural businesses in Wales over £350 million every year, keeping businesses afloat and thousands of people in work, ensuring the viability of our rural communities by filtering money through shops, village pubs and other suppliers of goods and services.

"Structural Funds make a huge contribution to the Welsh economy, invested around the country to help people into work and supporting business. During the recent economic troubles this source of EU funding has been especially helpful. The joint, and innovative, investments we have made with the EU directly support a range of activity, from research and development, regeneration, to helping people who have been out of work gain new skills and find jobs.

"Then there is our trade relationship – the EU is of major economic importance for us in Wales. The vast free market it provides gives us barrier free access to 500 million consumers, which directly boosts growth and jobs.

"I want to see a continuing role for the EU in helping us emerge from recession and promote our economy. I am determined that the voice of Wales will continue to be heard loud and clear in Brussels as we seek to make sure our communities continue to benefit from membership of the EU."

Wales and Europe – facts and figures

The EU is Wales’ biggest trade destination, with exports totalling over £5 billion.
This trade supports over 150,000 jobs in Wales.
The Common Agricultural Policy provides £350 million of support to Wales every year.

European funded projects in Wales include:

The £25 million South West Workways Project in Neath Port Talbot which provides work opportunities by matching economically inactive people with local businesses.
The Growth in Environmental Marine Sciences scheme which has been recognised by the EU for the innovative way it is supporting businesses in North West Wales.
Wales's first full scale tidal stream energy generator – Deltastream – is up and running thanks to £6.4 million of EU funding.
£2.7 million towards creating a centre of excellence for design and innovation in Welsh industry.
£3 million investment to create job opportunities and thriving local businesses by revitalising town centres in North East Wales.

Wales Week in China

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The sixth Wales Week in China is to be held in Chongqing from 27th February to 2nd March 2012.

Wales Week is jointly organized by the Welsh Government, Foreign Affairs Office and Information Office of the Chongqing Municipal Government. The week is designed to further promote Wales to the people of China and explore new opportunities and areas for collaboration with education and business partners.

During the week, a series of events on education, science, arts, business and culture will take place. Here are some of the events happening during Wales Week in China:

“Barcode Wales – Beyond the Visible” Photography Exhibition (27th February – 7th May 2012)

Taking place in the huge and beautiful glasshouse of Nanshan Botanic Garden - This exhibition showcases the cutting-edge photography concept of Dr Andrea Liggins, Swansea Metropolitan University and the “Barcode Wales” project, a plant DNA barcoding project of the National Botanic Garden of Wales. The exhibition features images and artwork illustrating a project to DNA barcode the flowering plants of Wales.

“Under Milk Wood” Stage Performance (29th February – 3rd March 2012)
The performance is adapted from “Under Milk Wood”, the famous poem written by one of the most influential lyric poets of the 20th century, Dylan Thomas. The actors are students from Coleg Powys, majoring in Performing Arts and the performance costumes are specially designed and made by students from Coleg Morgannwg. Fully supported by British Council Wales and the Cultural and Education Section of the British Consulate-General, the performance will be held in Chongqing Art School and Chongqing City Management College from 29 February to 2 March. A show for the general public will be held in Nanshan Botanic Garden on 3 March.

Wales Business Workshop (1st March 2012)
Working with the Chongqing Economy and Information Commission, officials from the Welsh Government will introduce the business resources and development needs in the sectors of creative industry, advanced material and manufacturing, energy and environment to Chongqing companies. Meanwhile, they will learn the current situation and development needs of Chongqing companies in these sectors, exploring opportunities for substantive cooperation and stir up new ideas and opportunities.

Wales Higher Education Training Workshop and Wales Summer School Taster Workshop (29th February and 2nd March 2012)
Working with the Chongqing Foreign Trade and Economic Relations Commission, Chongqing Education Commission and UK Trade and Investment, representatives from Wales International Consortium and Wales public sector colleges will introduce the Welsh resources in enterprise training, study tours, short-term English language training and summer schools, to the government organizations, companies, schools and universities in Chongqing, as well as learning more about the market in Chongqing.

Exhibition puts Wales in the spotlight in China

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The science and art of the National Botanic Garden of Wales are taking centre stage in China at the Wales Week celebrations.

An exhibition at Nanshan Botanic Garden in Chongqing – entitled ‘Barcode Wales - Beyond the Visible’ – features images and artwork illustrating the project to DNA barcode the flowering plants of Wales.

Photographs taken at the Garden by Professor Andrea Liggins, the Dean of Faculty of Art and Design at Swansea Metropolitan University, are the focal point of the exhibition and are presented alongside visual representations of the plants’ DNA barcodes produced as part of the National Botanic Garden of Wales' Barcode Wales project.

The aim of Barcode Wales was to make Wales one of the first nations to DNA barcode all of their native flowering plants (all 1143 species) and to use the barcodes for biodiversity conservation and to improve peoples’ lives.

The exhibition is at the Nanshan Botanic Garden, Chongqing, from 27th February for three months. It is anticipated that the exhibition will see 500,000 visitors in March and April.

Wales’ big sporting weekend

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Good news for sports fans…

There’s a big weekend ahead for Wales in sport. Not only does the Welsh rugby team take on England in the Six Nations - Cardiff City will take on Liverpool in the Carling Cup Final.

Six Nations: England v Wales

Wales take on England this Saturday (25th February) in the Six Nations at Twickenham. With a 100% record so far in the tournament, if Wales win this weekend they take home the Triple Crown – and will still be on track for a Grand Slam.

The First Minister of Wales, Rt. Hon Carwyn Jones AM, sent his best wishes to the Welsh rugby team ahead of their game against England this Saturday. The First Minister said: “Our games against Ireland and Scotland show that Wales has what it takes to beat England on the pitch. The hearts of all Welsh fans are quickening at the thought of a victory that would see us winning the Triple Crown for the first time at the home of English rugby. The entire nation is behind them and I wish the team all the best.”

Carling Cup Final: Cardiff City v Liverpool

One day later - In football, Cardiff City take on Liverpool this Sunday at Wembley in the Carling Cup Final. Cardiff are ranked underdogs in the final...but are determined to win. Cardiff City boss, Malky Mackay has told his team to help lead the way on delivering a great Welsh success this weekend.

The First Minister of Wales said, “I wish Cardiff City all the best for this weekend. This is the first time a Welsh club has reached the league cup final and it shows just how strong Welsh football is at the moment.”

Two important matches for Welsh sport - Pob lwc to the Welsh Rugby Team and Cardiff City.

Let’s hope for a memorable weekend and a Welsh sporting spectacular!

St David’s Day puts Wales on the map

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Welsh Government will be using St David’s Day once again to promote Wales around the world, First Minister Carwyn Jones announced.

A packed schedule of activity will be taking place across the globe – from China, New York though to Brussels and London - to celebrate the best of Wales.

The drive to promote Wales will begin next week in Brussels (Mon 27th Feb) where the First Minister will host the Welsh Government’s annual reception where Welsh food and drink will take centre stage. The First Minister will be at the heart of Europe to promote Wales and guests will include representatives from European institutions and the business community.

In China events will take place in Beijing, Shanghai and Chongqing. Chongqing will host its own ‘Wales Week’. Activity will include Welsh Government receptions, Higher Education and Further Education promotional events involving universities and Further Education institutions from Wales, student collaborative workshops, an exhibition by the National Botanical Garden of Wales, and business seminars promoting the Energy & Environment, Creative Industries and Advanced Manufacturing & Materials sectors in Wales.

Across the Atlantic ‘Wales Week New York’ will take place, beginning with an evening with Matthew Rhys on the 27th February at the Soho Crosby Street Hotel. There will also be a premier screening of the Swansea-based film ‘Hunky Dory’ starring Minnie Driver. There will also be a Welsh – Jewish Film festival. The 80 members of the UN Security Council will get to taste the finest Welsh produce first hand when they are served a Welsh breakfast at the United Nations.

In Ireland, Visit Wales will begin a new marketing drive to get more Irish visitors to holiday in Wales. In London, Londoners looking to try a taste of Wales will be able to attend showcase events at stores such as John Lewis, Waitrose and Partridges. Award winning Welsh food and drink will be available during a three day market of Welsh producers on the Southbank. Hampers of Welsh produce will also be delivered to key Ambassadors.

The Welsh Government will also be hosting an event for the financial sector in the City of London and an event with BAFTA to promote the creative industries in Wales.

The First Minister said:

"St David’s Day is a time of celebration for all of us in Wales, but it also provides us with a unique opportunity to raise our international profile as a place to invest, do business and visit.

"The Welsh Government will be using the days leading up to St David’s Day and the day itself to showcase to the world the very best of what our country has to offer, from top class food and drink to being an excellent place to locate and do business. Wales has a distinctive culture with a history that stretches back to ancient times and I want to make people from places as diverse as China through to America to know more about who we are and what we have to offer."

The First Minister will continue to promote Wales when he visits the USA later in the month.

Filming starts in Cardiff on new Doctor Who series

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

New adventures and surprises are in store as filming begins in Cardiff on a new series of Doctor Who.

The filming of Doctor Who has moved to the new BBC Cymru Wales’ Roath Lock studio complex in Cardiff Bay having previously been shot at the BBC’s site near Pontypridd, south Wales.

The Roath Lock studios will officially open on 12 March 2012. It has taken just over a year to construct the new facility, with 175,000 square foot of HD-ready studios.

The BBC’s Roath Lock complex recently achieved the highest possible environmental and sustainability rating – and became the first industrial building in the UK to obtain the prestigious BREEAM Outstanding certificate.

Filming on series seven of Doctor Who began on Monday, 20th February. As well as filming at the studio, it’s also possible to spot the cast of Doctor Who filming on location around Cardiff and south Wales.

The Doctor himself, actor Matt Smith, recently appeared in a video guiding viewers around his favourite bits of Cardiff.

Wales shows support for Fair Trade

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The First Minister of Wales, Rt. Hon Carwyn Jones AM has shown his support for Fair Trade by attending the Fair Trade Nation exhibition launch in Cardiff.

The exhibition will be on display in the Senedd, Cardiff Bay in the run up to Fair Trade Fortnight (27th February – 11th March). The inspiring images showcase the importance of Fair Trade and the difference it can make to the lives of producers and their communities.

As the world’s only Fair Trade Nation, Wales is proud to lead the world by example. Local Authorities, schools and towns across the country are gaining Fair Trade status, learning about the importance of Fair Trade and making a big difference across the globe.

The First Minister said:

"I am very proud that Wales continues to lead the way in support of Fair Trade. I encourage people to come along and see the inspiring exhibition on display and take part in the events across the country during Fair Trade Fortnight."

Fair Trade is more than tea, coffee, chocolate and bananas. With more than 4,500 products available on the market, from olive oil to beauty products, clothing to gold, it’s easier now than ever before to choose Fair Trade.

In Mali, one of the world’s poorest countries, the average school attendance is 43%. For the children from a Fairtrade co-operative the figure rises to 95%.

Welsh boxing camp prepares nations for London 2012

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Promising boxing stars from underdeveloped nations are coming to Wales to get the best possible chance of qualifying for the London Olympics.

The boxers, who include women for the first time in Olympic history, will attend a demanding three-week training camp in Cardiff. They hope to get in shape for Olympic pre-qualifying competitions, so they can return to the UK this summer to compete at London 2012.

The ‘Road to London’ training camp, run by the Amateur International Boxing Association and supported by the Welsh Amateur Boxing Association, will be using the highly-advanced training facilities at Cardiff University. The Welsh Government, Sport Wales and Cardiff Council are all backing the venture, which sees Wales pulling together for the benefit of less wealthy nations.

Some 51 male boxers and 17 women will arrive in Wales on February 19 to start the high-intensity training regime. They represent 44 countries, taking in sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America, Eastern Europe, Asia and the island nations of Oceania. The boxers have a full training programme planned for them, but there will also be time to tour Cardiff and get a sample of Welsh culture.

Three boxing rings have been set up at the Cardiff University’s Sport Training Village, along with 15 punchbags and the latest in conditioning equipment. The training schedule will include conditioning work, bag and pad work, and sparring, under the expert eye of an experienced coaching team. The largest of the boxing rings is the only Olympic specification ring in Wales at the moment. It will remain in Wales after the training camp, part of the Olympic legacy.

Welsh amateur boxers will also be training with the overseas athletes, giving them the chance to match up against some of the very best in the world. Wales’ own World Light Heavyweight Champion - and Cardiff University Maths graduate - Nathan Cleverly will also be dropping in to give some advice, as he builds up for his WBO title defence in Cardiff.

Head coach for the camp is the National Coach for Wales, Colin Jones, himself an Olympic boxing competitor from the 1976 Games in Montreal. Colin fought twice for the World Welterweight Championship and is also a former Welsh Sports Personality of the Year.

Colin said: “It’s fantastic that we in Wales can help boxers who have not had the same advantages. Welsh amateur boxers will also learn a great deal from training alongside some world-class fighters. The Olympic-specification ring will be part of a great legacy from London 2012 for sport here in Wales.”

Sport Minister Huw Lewis said: “The AIBA choosing Wales is a testament to our world class training facilities, proximity and quality of accommodation, and state of the art sport support services. The camp will help raise the profile of the Olympic Games in Wales and the reputation of Wales in the world whilst also promoting Welsh boxing.

“I wish the boxers, coaches and support staff a warm Welsh welcome and the best of luck in the qualifying tournaments and general preparations for the London Olympic games.”

Stuart Vanstone, Head of Cardiff University Sport, added: “We are delighted to be welcoming the athletes of the ‘Road to London’ training camp to Cardiff University. These are all very promising fighters – but many are from countries where training resources are limited. We are putting the best Welsh expertise and facilities at their disposal, to give them the best possible shot at making it to London.”

US company chooses Wales for first European base

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DRIAS Transnat Ltd - a US company specialising in providing administrative outsourcing services for insurance companies - has chosen Cardiff as the base for its first European Centre of Excellence. The investment by DRIAS will create 30 jobs initially, rising to 50 over two years.

The investment is supported by £162,000 from the Welsh Government Economic Growth Fund.

It is the company’s first expansion outside of North America and Cardiff was chosen from a number of potential locations.

Business Minister Edwina Hart, who met Dick Votel, President and CEO of DRIAS this week, said it was a welcome addition to Wales’ rapidly expanding financial and professional services sector.

Mrs Hart said,

“I am delighted to hear that the strong, robust financial services and call centre labour force in Wales is to be the foundation for their pan-European expansion strategy. This is believed to be the first such investment from a US company in Wales for more than five years.

“DRIAS is widely recognised in the USA as a premier provider of administrative outsourcing services for insurance companies and the decision to base their first European centre in Cardiff reflects the region’s reputation as a centre for financial and professional services. I wish them every success.”

The Minister added that Cardiff is proving to be an attractive proposition for this high growth sector. The city is the only one in the UK to have a dedicated Enterprise Zone for Financial and Professional Services within a new Central Business District where plans include £1 billion investment to create capacity for 40,000 new jobs.

This latest investment follows on from an earlier announcement that Deloitte has chosen Wales as the location for a new hub for its risk operations team, creating up to 100 new jobs and D&B UK is to retain a strong presence in the city.

DRIAS President and CEO Dick Votel stated that,

"DRIAS chose Cardiff as the ideal location for it's European business after considering a number of countries across Europe.

“Support from Welsh Government and Cardiff Council's ambition for the Financial and Professional Services Industry were key considerations. The Government and Council were immensely supportive and very pro business.

“But people and skills are key. My long experience of administration outsourcing for the insurance and Banking sectors tells me great business needs great people. In Cardiff's fast growing City Region we found a rich pool of skilled professionals supported by academia."

Ken Poole of PWC ,the company's location advisor indicated that the decision by DRIAS, a new investor from North America, is a great boost to inward investment in Wales and Cardiff and hopefully the beginning of a new stream of investors from the worlds most important inward investment source market.

DRIAS, a privately owned company, administers group and individual life and health insurance plans on behalf of financial institutions and insurance companies.

They manage most functions normally performed by the financial institution or insurance company such as application processing, data capture, customer billing, policyholder communications, customer service and claims services.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota the company administers over 1.9 million paid for policies and maintain over 28 million records on their proprietary systems.

Its new centre will be based in the Global Reach Building, Celtic Gateway Business Park, Cardiff Bay and focus on high volume client contact and bespoke end-to-end product administration.

Lovespoons: Valentine’s Day the Welsh way.

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Today, many people around the world celebrate love in one way or another - although here in Wales, we’ve been in the mood for love for a few weeks now. St Dwynwen’s Day, the Welsh alternative to St Valentine’s Day is celebrated on 25th January. The day celebrates the Welsh patron saint of lovers.

So what is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? Flowers, chocolates, a big Welsh ‘cwtch’?

A traditional and romantic custom in Wales is the giving and receiving of lovespoons. Dating back to the 17th century, a lovespoon was a wooden spoon carved by a young man and presented to the woman he loved as a token of his affection.

The earliest surviving lovespoon is dated 1667 although it is believed that the custom was widespread before that date.

A lovespoon is usually decorated with certain symbols, with each symbol having certain significance and meaning,

Bell – weddings, anniversaries
Ball(s) in cage – number of children
Cross – faith
Diamond – wealth, good fortune
Heart – Love
Horseshoe – good luck
Key/Keyhole – security, home
Knot/Celtic knotwork – everlasting, together forever
Dragon – Protection, symbol of Wales

Today lovespoons are very popular and used to mark and celebrate many occasions such as births, christenings, weddings, anniversaries and retirement. Visitors to Wales often take home a lovespoon with them to have something uniquely Welsh to remind them of their visit.

Double BAFTA win for Newport film graduate

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

University of Wales, Newport Graduate - Asif Kapadia, has scored a double success at the 2012 British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Film Awards for his documentary, Senna. Last night, Senna won the best documentary, and editing prize at the Awards.

Senna was based on Brazilian Formula One racing driver Ayrton Senna, who won the F1 world championship three times before his death at age 34.

In the documentary category, Senna beat Martin Scorsese’s George Harrison: Living in the Material World, and James Marsh’s Project Nim to win the top award.

Senna’s film editors picked up the editing category award against narrative features Drive, Hugo, The Artist, and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

Using interviews and archive footage, Senna paints a dramatic portrait of one of Formula One’s most famous drivers. The film follows Senna’s struggles both on track against his nemesis, French World Champion Alain Prost, and off it, against the politics which infest the sport.

Senna‘s documentary award is Kapadia’s second major BAFTA prize – in 2003 his narrative feature The Warrior won the Alexander Korda Award for Best British Film.

Asif Kapadia studied at Newport Film School - part of University of Wales, Newport, south Wales.

The Queen comes to Cardiff

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

To mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the National Musuem of Wales is hosting a collection of 60 of the most striking and resonant images of Elizabeth II, spanning her reign.

Running from 4 Feb – 29 Apr at the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff, The Queen: Art and Image explores the range of artistic creativity and media-derived imagery that The Queen has inspired.

Among the highlights are Annigoni’s hugely popular life-size 1969 commission for the National Portrait Gallery, Lucian Freud’s 2000-01 portrait from the Royal Collection, and Justin Mortimer’s painting where The Queen’s head floats away from her body against a huge background of flat vibrant yellow.

The Queen: Art and Image also includes a significant selection of unofficial portraits of the British monarch from major 20th century artists such as Gilbert and George, Andy Warhol and Gerhard Richter, as well as less formal portraits by such photographers as Eve Arnold, Patrick Lichfield and Lord Snowdon.

To find out more, take a look at the National Museum Wales website

Ffresh Festival celebrates filmmaking talent

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Now in its 10th year, Ffresh – the Student Moving Image Festival of Wales – takes place this week at the Newport Film School and the Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre.

The festival celebrates the best work being created by up-and-coming moving image talent in Wales, the UK and around the world. The week will also see some of the industry’s most renowned and respected figures deliver masterclasses, panel sessions and workshops.

Among the festival’s highlights; acclaimed British film director Mike Leigh imparting some of his knowledge, stories and expertise and American film-maker Jonathan Caouette will also preside over a unique masterclass.

The festival programme also includes all the shortlisted work for the prestigious Ffresh Awards, which consists of 14 categories of excellence, which students from around Wales and the UK can submit their work into.

The winners are announced during the Ffresh Awards Show on the final night of the festival.

The 2012 Ffresh Festival also includes a new exhibition called Newport Stories based on the community project of the same name, which encourages people to tell a story about the city in less than 50 words and a single photograph.

Ffresh is organised by The Festivals Company Limited who are also the creators of The Iris Prize.

Ffresh – the Student Moving Image Festival of Wales – runs from February 6th – 10th, 2012 at the Newport Film School and the Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre.

Export sales are sparkling success story

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Consort Precision Diamond Co - a highly specialist Welsh manufacturing company has reported significant export-led sales increases over the last three months and announced plans to build on that success by targeting China this year.

The Welsh Government’s international trade development programme is supporting the company’s export drive and commissioned an in-depth market report for Consort, highlighting new business opportunities in China’s aerospace sector.

Consort, which is based in Kinmel Bay, in Conwy borough, operates in a highly niche market and is one of the world’s leading companies producing Rotary Diamond Dressers that are used extensively across a wide range of industries in complex, high precision grinding operations.

They ensure the grinding wheels are maintained in optimum condition, an essential requirement to ensure the accurate, high-speed production of components for the aerospace, automotive, power generation, machine tool and specialised engineering industries.

A key area of Consort’s expertise is in specifying and manufacturing diamond dressers for bespoke applications.

Managing Director David Morris said they were pleased to report sales had increased by 21% during the past three months, with the majority of the increase in exports to the USA, Mexico and Brazil. He said:

“Despite difficult trading conditions globally, November was our best month ever for incoming orders and outgoing production. This increase was mainly due to recognising new opportunities and concentrating sales efforts in those areas in anticipation of likely problems in the Eurozone,”

This year the company plans to concentrate efforts on China which is a growing market, particularly in the aero engine industry which he said has advanced at an impressive rate over the past decade.

“Although we have been selling our products to China for a number of years the excellent in-depth study commissioned through the Welsh Government highlighted new potential for our products in the aerospace sector and will guide our efforts to expand this market.”

Consort’s Technical Representative Brian Jones made a re-assessment visit to China last month and the company is now actively looking for a representative there with experience in the aerospace sector.

Business Minister Edwina Hart congratulated the company on its success and said she was pleased to hear Consort is benefiting from the help provided by the Welsh Government to support companies to trade internationally.

“Exports not only offer new market opportunities for Welsh businesses, helping to create and safeguard jobs, but also have a positive impact on the Welsh economy. Helping businesses increase international trade is high on the Welsh Government’s agenda.

“Consort’s export success mirrors the latest export figures for Wales published in December which showed a healthy 22% increase over the previous twelve months”.

Consort, which operates in the key advanced materials and manufacturing sector, is also currently involved in a technical research project with Swansea University under the ASTUTE (Advanced Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies) programme with the assistance of the Welsh Government.

ASTUTE provides dedicated expertise to help companies improve their competitiveness, enabling them to operate at the leading edge of manufacturing technologies.

Mr Morris said they are hopeful of positive results which will be invaluable for further increased production.

Wales rugby: RBS Six Nations

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Following on from the excitement of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Wales started their journey in the 2012 RBS Six Nations yesterday. A great start for the Welsh Rugby Team securing a 21-23 victory over Ireland in a thrilling game at the Aviva Stadium.

With the Six Nations Championship now in full swing, Wales’ first win has put them on track for a Grand Slam (victory in every game). Wales' victory over France on the final day of the 2008 RBS Six Nations provided the team with a perfect ten of Grand Slams. Let’s hope for number eleven this year!

The Wales squad led by captain, Sam Warburton and coach, Warren Gatland have a few games to get through first though. Here are Wales’ upcoming matches in the RBS Six Nations:

Sunday 12th February 2012 – Wales v Scotland (Millennium Stadium, Cardiff)
Saturday 25th February 2012 – England v Wales (Twickenham)
Saturday 10th March 2012 – Wales v Italy (Millennium Stadium, Cardiff)
Saturday 17th March 2012 – Wales v France (Millennium Stadium, Cardiff)

Olympic chiefs visit Millennium Stadium

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Senior officials of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) visited the Millennium Stadium this week, as the venue prepares to host 11 Olympic football matches during the 2012 Games.

LOCOG Head of Sport Competition David Luckes arrived in Cardiff with a delegation from the IOC for a final tour of the venue before London 2012 kicks-off in Cardiff with the first event on 25 July.

Both the men’s and women’s GB football teams are set to play at the home of Welsh sport which is also the confirmed venue for the prestigious men’s quarter-final and Bronze Medal.

The Millennium Stadium was described as ‘very impressive’ by David Luckes as the London 2012 visitors - including former Olympic hurdler Colin Jackson and Welsh international football player Jessica Fishlock - completed their tour of the world-class facilities.

“This venue is very impressive. It is a stadium that regularly hosts major stadium events and we know their track record. We have been impressed by the attention to detail and the staff,” said Mr Luckes. “The Olympics starts here at 4.00pm on July 25 and I think it will get the Games off to a cracking start.”

Former Olympic silver medalist Colin Jackson is also looking forward to the Olympic football in Cardiff: “I am so excited about the Olympics coming to Wales. I just can’t believe that my home city of Cardiff will be hosting an Olympic event,” he said.

“People often ask what the Olympics atmosphere is like but now they will have the chance to experience it for themselves. This is a once in a lifetime chance and people should not miss out. I am not going into the Village until July 27 so will be heading down to Cardiff to watch the opening event.”

Roger Lewis, Group Chief Executive of the WRU, which owns and operates the Millennium Stadium, commented: “The eyes of the world will be on the Millennium Stadium when the Games kick-off in Cardiff two days ahead of the official opening ceremony and we are proud and delighted to be such an important part of this great sporting occasion.

“The stadium has a fantastic record for hosting world-class events, including some six years of first-rate football during the construction of Wembley, and it has been a pleasure to show our guests from LOCOG and the IOC what sporting fans all over the world can expect from Cardiff to mark the first home Olympic Games.”

Tickets are available now until Monday, 6 February for fans to be part of all the Olympic football action between July 25 and August 10 at the Millennium Stadium via the official website www.tickets.london2012.com

Line up announced for international art prize

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Artists from Cuba, India, Lithuania, Mexico, Slovenia, Sweden, and the UK are on the shortlist for the Wales based Artes Mundi 5.

From the flamboyant to the intimate, action and performance are the common threads that link the artists shortlisted for this year’s £40,000 Artes Mundi Prize. From Phil Collins offering reality TV contestants a platform to critique their manipulation by the media, to the meticulous understatement through which Teresa Margolles addresses drug violence in Mexico, the seven artists use a wide range of materials, actions, and strategies to engage with social issues and comment on society.

The shortlist for the fifth Artes Mundi Prize was announced today by Ben Borthwick, Artes Mundi’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director following an extensive research process by the two selectors - Sofía Hernández Chong Cuy, Curator of Contemporary Art at Colección Patricia Phelps de Cisneros, New York and curatorial agent for dOCUMENTA (13), and Anders Kreuger, Curator at M HKA in Antwerp, Belgium. The selectors chose from over 750 nominations, including 576 individual artists from more than 90 countries, identifying artists whose work explores and comments on lived experience.

The seven artists picked for this year’s Artes Mundi, sponsored by Bank of America Merrill Lynch as part of its Arts and Culture Programme, and publicly funded by the Arts Council of Wales and Cardiff Council are:

• Miriam Bäckström (Sweden),
• Tania Bruguera (Cuba),
• Phil Collins (England),
• Sheela Gowda (India),
• Teresa Margolles (Mexico),
• Darius Mikšys (Lithuania) and
• Apolonija Šušteršic (Slovenia).

Some of the artists look at specific cultural or historical contexts while others engage with broader themes of human experience. The range of nationalities, themes and artistic media demonstrates the scope of the Artes Mundi Prize, which will be underlined in a major exhibition of works by the shortlisted artists at Wales’s new National Museum of Art from 6 October 2012. The 14-week exhibition will be installed in almost 800 square metres of new contemporary art galleries, reinforcing Artes Mundi’s longstanding partnership with Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales.

An international judging panel will award the £40,000 prize midway through the exhibition in November 2012. All other shortlisted artists will receive a new award of £4,000 each.

Ben Borthwick, Artes Mundi’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director who joined the team from Tate Modern in 2010 said:
We are delighted with the exceptional quality of this shortlist which was drawn from a very strong field of nominations. I look forward to welcoming the artists toWales and creating an exhibition in October that will give audiences the opportunity to engage with the most exciting international contemporary art.

Anders Kreuger, one of the selectors, added:
Shortlisting for Artes Mundi has been an honour – and a responsibility to be taken seriously. Almost 600 artists were nominated this year, and it was a huge challenge to whittle these highly accomplished individuals down to just seven. We have chosen seven very different but equally talented artists, of different generations and from all across the globe, to exhibit at National Museum of Art this autumn.

Wales reach Grand Final at global schools debate

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wales has achieved its best ever result at the World Schools Debating Championships, reaching the Grand Final in a competition between 48 nations taking place in Cape Town, South Africa.

In the final, Wales faced Scotland, debating the motion “This house regrets South Africa's decision to use the Truth and Reconciliation Commission rather than prosecuting perpetrators of crimes committed under Apartheid”. The Welsh team comprises Amy Jones, 18, of Y Pant Comprehensive School, Pontyclun; Helen Price, 17, of Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls; David Wigley, 17, of Bishop of Llandaff High School, Cardiff; and Piers Digby, 17, of Monmouth School. The team has been coached by Harry Thomas.

Wales won 6 of its 8 initial debates, achieving a ranking of 7th place after the preliminary rounds. They then defeated India and Ireland in the first two knock-out rounds. Wales then met England in the semi-final, defeating them by 6 judges to 1 on the topic “This House supports a 100% tax on inherited wealth”.

The World Schools Debating Championships is an annual event, first organised in Australia in 1988. Teams debate a mixture of prepared topics (provided several weeks in advance) and impromptu topics with only one hour’s preparation. The Welsh team is selected from outstanding competitors in the Wales Schools Debating Championships, organised by the Welsh Centre for International Affairs with support from the British Council.

Martin Pollard, Chief Executive of the Welsh Centre for International Affairs, said: “This is a fantastic achievement by four dedicated young debaters. We’ve been taking part in the World Schools Debating Championships for nearly 20 years and this is the first time we’ve reached the Final, so everyone is very excited. This competition is all about communication and bright ideas, and it’s great that we can show off the skills of young Welsh people to so many other countries.”

Information on the World Schools Debating Championships: www.schoolsdebate.com

Happy St Dwynwen's Day

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

St Dwynwen is the Welsh patron saint of lovers and we celebrate St Dwynwen’s day on the 25th January.

The story of Dwynwen dates back to the 5th century. Dwynwen fell in love with a Prince called Maelon Dafodrill, but her father Brychan Brycheiniog was determined that she would marry another man.

Dwynwen was devastated that she couldn’t marry her true love and begged God to make her forget Maelon. She was visited by an angel who gave her a potion that was supposed to make her have no memory of Maelon and turned him into a block of ice.

Dwynwen was then granted three wishes. Firstly she wished for Maelon to be thawed, secondly that God meet the hopes and dreams of true lovers and thirdly she wished that she would never marry. She devoted the rest of life to God’s service, founding a convent on the island of Llanddwyn and you can see still see the remains of the church today.

Also on the island is a well where according to legend swims a sacred fish that can predict the happiness of relationships. Visitors still visit the well today hoping that the water will boil meaning that love and good luck will follow them.

Have a look below for some ideas to celebrate St Dwynens Day and don’t forget to say ‘Dwi’n dy garu di’ (I love you) today!

Recipes
Cook your loved one something special from Wales

Lovespoons
History and meanings behind the traditional gift of the Welsh lovespoon

Breaks
Some of our favourite places for a break away in Wales.

Stories
Read some of our romantic myths and legends from Wales

Wales and China celebrate Chinese New Year

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Dragons of Wales and China come together for Chinese New Year

The growing links between Wales and China will be celebrated this evening when First Minister Carwyn Jones welcomes guests to the Senedd to commemorate Chinese New Year.

The event follows a high-level delegation to China last year where the First Minister led talks to promote Wales as a business destination and place to invest, as well as promoting educational opportunities in Wales.
During the visit he held talks with the Chinese Government and signed co-operation agreements with the Municipalities of Beijing and Chongqing to explore areas of collaboration.
Before Christmas the First Minister welcomed to Cardiff the Joint Economic Trade Commission, a UK and Chinese Government forum for talks on business opportunities. The Chinese Government team was accompanied by a delegation of Chinese companies who had the opportunity to learn more about what Wales has to offer.

Those attending the event in the Senedd will include representatives of the Chinese Embassy and people from the fields of business, education, and culture who have links with China, as well as from the local Chinese communities and student population. Proceedings will start with a traditional Chinese Lion Dance performance.

The First Minister will wish the guests happy new year in Mandarin and Cantonese.

He said:

“The Dragon of course, is the national symbol of Wales. The Welsh flag, named Y Ddraig Goch in Welsh, literally translates as The Red Dragon. The dragon is just one thing that China and Wales have in common.

“My government is committed to Wales’ relationship with China and late last year I returned from an extremely productive and enjoyable visit to the country, the first of what I hope will be many as First Minister of Wales.

“The warmth of the Chinese people and the welcome I received will remain with me for ever. During my visit we signed a number of new deals that will be mutually beneficial to both our nations, including renewing the Co-operation Agreement with the Municipal Government of Chongqing and a new agreement with the Municipal Government of Beijing.

“Our relationship embraces a wide range of areas, from business, energy, education and health and I want this journey to continue. I sincerely hope that the Year of the Dragon will bring lasting peace, common prosperity and harmony between our two nations.”

Cardiff to host UK round of Extreme Sailing Series

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The UK round of the award-winning Extreme Sailing Series now in its sixth year will be staged in Cardiff between the 30 August - 2 September, 2012.

In a three-year deal, Cardiff won the bid to host the UK event of this global sailing circuit that is only one of four events with ISAF (International Sailing Federation) Special Event status, positioning the city alongside the other seven premium international sporting venues hosting an Extreme Sailing Series Act in 2012. The host venue agreement with Cardiff City is backed by a Welsh Government grant for 2012-2014.

The Extreme 40 catamarans, raced by many of the world’s best sailors, will race on Cardiff Bay over four days with the event open to the public between the 25-27 August as the Extreme 40 fleet race in the circuit’s action packed ‘stadium’ format. First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones said:

"I am delighted to announce that the Extreme Sailing Series will be coming to Cardiff Bay from 2012.

"This is a top-level, international sporting event which puts the Welsh capital alongside cities such as Singapore, Istanbul, Nice and Boston.

"By supporting events like this, the Welsh Government is aiming to promote Wales as a world class sailing and water sports venue, as well as generating economic benefits by attracting more visitors to our shores."

Executive chairman of the organizing company behind the series, Mark Turner of OC ThirdPole, said:

"The circuit continues to represent perfectly the developments in the world at large, with its balance of east and west, different cultures and languages and variety of conditions."

"Year on year the commercial value to the host cities of securing this event for the host cities has steadily increased, and this is reflected in 2012 developments. A pro-active and innovative host venue is critical to the success of the event, and we are very excited in this respect by the partnership with Cardiff and the Welsh Government"

The 2012 Extreme Sailing Series will be staged at eight different international venues across three continents, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators. Alongside other significant media exposure, once again a dedicated TV series will be produced and broadcast on up to 40 channels around the world, including CNBC, Bloomberg, Channel 4 (UK), Sky (UK), Al Jazeera, Fox (Latin America, Australia Middle East), ESPN, Sport+ (France), RAI (Italy).

Welsh stars of 2012: The ones to watch

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We’re a talented bunch here in Wales. Many of our home grown stars have gone on to have success worldwide; Anthony Hopkins, Rhys Ifans, The Stereophonics come to mind. A new year brings new talent, so here are some of our own that have been highlighted as “ones to watch” for 2012.

Music:
The inaugural Welsh Music Prize highlighted some of the best music in Wales last year - 12 artists, 12 albums, one award - the very first award going to Gruff Rhys for his third solo album Hotel Shampoo. Wales Online have featured 40 Welsh bands to look out for in 2012. On the list, The Gentle Good (the work of Cardiff based folk singer-songwriter Gareth Bonello) who was recently given the opportunity to take part in a 6 week programme in Chengdu, China giving innovative British musicians the opportunity to explore new musical territory, reach new audiences, and write new material.

Sport:
With less than 200 days to go until the Olympics, the spotlight is very much on our sports men and women. In the run up to the London 2012 four Welsh sporting stars have so far been confirmed as part of Team GB: boxing duo Andrew Selby and Fred Evans, plus sailor Hannah Mills. Sailor, Steve Thomas has been confirmed for the GB Paralympics Team. With more Team GB selection announcements to come, many more Welsh contenders are still hoping to compete in the world’s biggest sporting event.

Literature:
Recently announced as the very first writer in residence at the Welsh Rugby Union, Owen Sheers is a poet, author and scriptwriter brought up in Abergavenny, South Wales. His first novel Resistance was translated into 10 languages and shortlisted for the Writer’s Guild of Great Britain Book Award. Resistance was made in to a feature film starring Michael Sheen and released in November 2011 – HRH Prince Charles even attended the premiere.

With so many more talented people shining through; writers, actors, musicians, film makers, artists, sports stars (too many to list on our blog in fact), keep an eye out for Welsh stars in 2012. We like to make an impact.

Swansea v Arsenal

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This weekend sees Swansea take on another of the Premier League's big clubs. Swansea welcome 3 time premier league winners Arsenal to the Liberty Stadium on Sunday, 15th January.

Arsenal are famous for their slick passing and attractive style of football and were the only team to go through a premier league season undefeated. They recently re-signed one of the ‘invincibles’ on loan Thierry Henry. Henry, who could feature in his first Premier League game since 2007, has high praise for Swansea and their style of football saying ‘Swansea are an amazing team’.

With two teams playing such attractive football it’s all set up to be a fantastic day! And Arsenal supporters coming from London might be more familiar with Swansea and the beautiful surrounding areas than they first might have thought. Pictures of the Gower, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and beaches such as Three Cliffs Bay have been featured on an advertising campaign on the London Underground.

There is also a dedicated site on the visit Swansea Bay website for Premier League fans to check out before they travel to Swansea. So if you are heading down to catch a game at the Liberty Stadium why not check out what else is on offer.

Wales in the US update

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

There is good news from the USA this month as Wales has made the New York Times’ list of top 45 Places to Go in 2012. Other destinations featured include Tokyo, Florence and Moscow. The focus of the Wales entry is our new hiking path - the Wales Coast Path – which will create a pedestrian route around the country. For the full listing, see http://tinyurl.com/6mlw478

Also this week, Sophie Lewis, Manager of Sinfonia Cymru (Wales) is in New York at the ISPA (International Society for the Performing Arts) Annual Congress at the Times Center in New York. She is representing the UK along with the senior managers of five other UK Orchestras. Sinfonia Cymru is Wales’s foremost chamber orchestra consisting of talented musicians under the age of 28 and is the resident professional chamber orchestra at the new Dora Stoutzker Hall at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

And some good news for Cardiff University; American pharmaceutical giant Bristol-Myers Squibb has agreed the purchase of US biotech company Inhibitex, in a $2.5Bn (£1.6bn) deal which includes the promising new anti-hepatitis C drug INX-189, first designed and prepared in Cardiff University.

The buy-out means Bristol-Myers will continue the development of INX-189, created by Professor Chris McGuigan at the Welsh School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Professor McGuigan said: “At this drug’s current highly promising stage, Bristol-Myers Squibb is the ideal partner for quick progression to clinical approval. …This purchase is highly significant for Cardiff University, which stands to benefit financially at each stage of the drug’s progress.”

For the full story, see the Cardiff University website.

For more information on Wales’ links with America, take a look at our Wales and the USA pages.

Living and working in a National Park in Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

GUEST BLOGGER: Nancy Cavill
Nancy is based in a village eight miles from Brecon and runs Everymedia Solutions.
www.everymediasolutions.co.uk

IT’S not every lunch break that offers you the chance to listen to the sound of sheep munching. But that’s how it is for me when I step out of my office into my garden, which is adjacent to a field. I live and work in my home, which is in a small village in the always beautiful – even in the rain – Brecon Beacons National Park.

Outside there are wall-to-wall views of mountains, with the odd forest and river thrown in. From inside my office (in my converted garage, the glamour!) if I crane my neck I can see a 550-metre mountain peak – when it’s not surrounded by cloud.

What a difference a few years can make.

Back then I was working as a freelance journalist, writing and subbing for newspapers and other magazines, and living in Wales’ capital city, Cardiff.
I love the city and I had to be dragged kicking and screaming by an outdoorsy husband to start a new life in the country. How would we cope with the commute to town, I asked. And what if no-one talks to ‘outsiders’?

I needn’t have worried. Village life turns out to be just as sociable, if not more so, than urban dwelling. And the issue of the commute never reared its head.

My work life has been transformed. I no longer write for print but for all things online – so, of course, it doesn’t matter where I live. Or rather, it matters to me where I live but not to the people I write for!

One minute I can be speaking to the switched-on landlord of a local pub who wants ‘things to do’ content for the pub’s website (visitors bring in much of the pub’s trade and tourism is a major industry here). The next I’m talking to a marketing manager in central London who wants his firm’s brochure copy re-written.

Local business meetings take place in the pub – usually with coffee rather than a pint – and some now even offer free wi-fi. Just like the city! For business meetings further afield Skype works wonders.

I have a virtual network of colleagues now thanks to social media. But then again, I know colleagues in a busy city office who sit in the same room but tweet each other rather than wander over for a chat, so I don’t feel too deprived.

200 days until the Olympic Games

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Mon, 9 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With 200 days now remaining until the London 2012 Olympic Games, another four countries have signed Memoranda of Understanding to formalise their agreement to prepare for the Games in Wales.

The latest four countries to commit to basing their pre-Games training camps in Wales are: the Botswana National Olympic Committee, Lesotho National Olympic Committee, Liberia National Paralympic Committee and Mexican Paralympic Committee. The announcements follow the recent decision by Athletics New Zealand that they will train in Wales which has been supported by the New Zealand Olympic Committee.

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said: “With 2012 now upon us and with 200 days left until the world’s biggest sporting event takes place on our doorstep, I’m delighted that we are able to make this announcement. The decisions reflect the hard work put in by the Welsh Government and its partners over the past few months and shows that Wales has the kind of facilities and sporting infrastructure that Olympic and Paralympic teams are looking for.

“Pre Games training camps will also provide opportunities to develop sporting, educational and cultural exchanges with countries that come to Wales and provide opportunities for children and local communities to get involved, resulting in a positive Games legacy for Wales. “

Seb Coe, Chair of the London 2012 Organising Committee said: "It’s great to hear that National Olympic Committees and National Paralympic Committees from Africa and the Americas are continuing to develop strong relationships with Wales to aid their training in advance of London 2012. It’s a great opportunity for the nations to develop sporting, educational and cultural links that last beyond the Games. I wish the teams and their Welsh colleagues all the very best in their preparations for London 2012.”

It is anticipated that teams from at least 19 countries will train in Wales in the lead in to the Games involving close to 1,000 athletes and support staff with a direct investment into the economy running into millions of pounds.

West Wales to host a major new literature festival

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 6 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Literature Wales is pleased to announce that a lively new festival celebrating the very best of literature will be held at Dinefwr Park and Castle in west Wales in 2012.

The Dinefwr Literature Festival is a collaboration between Literature Wales, the National Trust, and the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David (as lead partner in the Coracle programme).

The Arts Council of Wales has generously awarded £65,000 to this new project from its Festivals Fund.

The bilingual festival, which will be the first of its kind, takes place from Friday 29 June to Sunday 1 July 2012. It will feature an eclectic mix of literature, music, comedy, cinema and children’s activities – doing for literature what the Green Man Festival has done for music. High quality literature events will be programmed alongside other art forms in the beautiful and inspiring surroundings of Dinefwr Park and Castle.

The impressive line-up will include multi-award-winning novelists, local storytellers, performance poets, children’s authors, singer-songwriters, script-writers plus a whole host of fringe acts guaranteed to appeal to children and adults alike. The festival site will have a dedicated camping field to set up a temporary home from home for the weekend. The site will also be brimming with outdoor entertainment, a variety of stalls, excellent local food and much, much more.

Dinefwr in Carmarthenshire has a long and prestigious association with Welsh literature. It was the seat of the medieval Princes of Deheubarth and is steeped in culture. This area of Carmarthenshire is known for the part it has played in the promotion and celebration of Welsh culture throughout the centuries.

Justin Albert, Director of the National Trust in Wales, said: “This is an incredibly exciting project and partnership for the National Trust to be involved in. Everyone loves good stories, poetry and music and Wales has such a rich and fantastic tradition in these areas. Dinefwr is rightly seen as one of the cradles of Welsh culture, so holding the festival at this site will surely play a massive part in further invigorating pride in Welsh literary and musical achievement. We congratulate Literature Wales and the other project partners in successfully bringing this bid together and laying the groundwork for what we are confident will be an amazing festival and celebration of Welsh culture.”

Dominic Williams, Coracle Development Officer, says: “The professional development of any creative community, including that of creative writers, is the driving force behind the Coracle programme. Arts festivals are the showcases that often convert those communities into industries. This local and international festival will have a hugely positive impact upon the region by attracting lovers of culture to this Welsh home of literature.”

Lleucu Siencyn, Chief Executive of Literature Wales, says: “Literature Wales’ vision is to take literature to all corners of Wales to as wide an audience as possible. This new festival allows us to do that. Working in partnership with the National Trust and Coracle will enable us to be more ambitious in our programming than ever before. 2012 will be a great year for literature.”

Watch out for more information and future announcements about the festival, including the launch of a new festival website in the New Year.

In the meantime, visit the project partners’ websites:

Literature Wales www.literaturewales.org
National Trust www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dinefwr
Coracle www.coracle.eu.com

Free entry to National Botanic Garden this January

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 5 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Whatever the weather this January, you can rely on a Mediterranean experience in the Great Glasshouse at the National Botanic Garden of Wales – where admission is FREE for the whole month.

A series of weekend-long events has been arranged throughout the month to help encourage more people to visit the Garden – which The Times newspaper branded the “Number 1 Winter Wonderland in the UK”.

Through the month, the highlights include: an Antiques Fair , Woodcraft Weekend and a ‘Local Producer’ Food Fair – all taking place in the stunning surrounds of Lord Foster’s Great Glasshouse.

The Antiques Fair is on Saturday and Sunday, January 14-15, and is billed as two days of high-quality antiques stalls with china, jewellery and furniture - organised by Derwen Fairs.

Saturday and Sunday, January 21-22, sees the return of the popular Woodcraft Weekend, an event for all woodworkers including demonstrations of woodturning, toy-making, carving, intarsia, pyrography, with international craftsmen such as Mark Raby, Mick Hanbury, Bob Neill, Mark Baker, Simon Hope showing off their skills.

On the last weekend of FREE January (Saturday and Sunday, January 28-29), there will be a festival of local food and drink with more than 30 stalls offering the best that the west has to offer in terms of local produce.

Also on at the Garden in FREE January are the next two performances in the Celtic Women Concert Series which feature singer, pianist, and entertainer Amanda Painting (Sunday January 8 at 2pm) and harpist, songwriter, poet and storyteller Hazel Saville on Sunday January 15.

For more information, call +44 (0)1558 667149 or info@gardenofwales.org.uk. For a full list of what’s on at the Garden, go to www.gardenofwales.org.uk

Merry Christmas/Nadolig Llawen!

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Nadolig Llawen (that’s Welsh for Merry Christmas) from Wales.com.

Here’s some of what happens over the festive season here in Wales:

Christmas Eve
An old Welsh tradition on Christmas Eve is Taffy making. This special kind of toffee was boiled up in pans as families and friends would share stories to pass the dark hours of Christmas Eve's night.

Children all over Wales will hang up their stockings eagerly awaiting a visit from Father Christmas. Be sure to leave out some mince pies for Santa and a carrot for his reindeer too.

Christmas Day
Traditionally on Christmas Morning, families open their presents and start preparations for a Christmas feast – turkey with all the trimmings! Here’s a great recipe to add a little Welsh to your Christmas feast.

For those who like something a little unusual, how about a festive trip to the beach?
Every year participants brave the weather and plunge into icy waters around Wales for a Christmas sea swim. The Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim sees hundreds of people take part every year.

For those who prefer to be in the warm, there’s always the Dr Who Christmas special. Dr Who actor, Matt Smith recently talked about his favourites parts of Cardiff, where the show is filmed in Dr Who’s Guide to Cardiff.

Boxing Day
As well as families feasting on the left over turkey, Boxing Day sees another famous Christmas sea swim in Wales. The Tenby Boxing Day Swim was recently highlighted in Tesco’s Christmas advertising campaign.

Not to forget the football – Swansea City will play Queens Park Rangers at home and Cardiff City will play Watford away.

New Year’s Eve
For a very different New Year’s Eve, the Nos Galan Races commemorate the Welsh runner Guto Nyth Bran. Held annually on New Year’s Eve in Mountain Ash, in the Cynon Valley, South Wales, the Races follow a 5km route around the town.

The legendary stories of Guto Nyth Bran are plentiful, including how he could catch a bird in flight, and how he once ran seven miles (to Pontypridd, South Wales and back) before the kettle boiled.

When he was 37, a challenge came from the ‘Prince’ of Bedwas to run the 12 miles from Newport in Monmouthshire to Bedwas Church Caerphilly. Guto won the race, but the celebratory ‘slaps’ on the back proved too much for him and he died in the arms of his sweetheart, Sian o’r Siop.

His body was taken to its final resting-place in the graveyard of Llanwynno Church near Mountain Ash – where the annual races now take place.

New Year’s Day
Another old Welsh tradition is Calennig – a New Year’s gift.

All around Wales, groups of young children would go from door to door, carrying three-legged totems singing verses and asking for calennig - gifts of small change.

This was symbolised by the skewered apples, stuck with corn and sprigs of evergreen, which they carried in their hands.

Whatever your plans over the holidays, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Nadolig Llawen!

Brunei Minister visits Wales

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports for Brunei Darussalam, Pehin Hazair, visited Wales on the 9th and 10th December as part of a wider visit to the UK.

Pehin Hazair met the Minister for Housing, Regeneration & Heritage, Huw Lewis AM, to discuss Wales’ experience in hosting major sporting events such as Ryder Cup and the success in attracting Olympic and Paralympic teams to use Wales as a training base ahead of the London 2012 Games. The Ministers also discussed the Welsh Government’s commitment to encourage wider participation in sport.

After the meeting Minister Hazair took the opportunity to tour the sports facilities of Cardiff Metropolitan University and visit the Cardiff School of Management. There was also time to meet students from the Brunei Darussalam Student Society Wales (BDSSW).

On this day in Welsh history…

editor@wales.com (Editor) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The City of Cardiff was officially named as the capital city of Wales. Cardiff was named as a city in 1905 and 50 years later in 1955 achieved its capital city status.

Cardiff was proclaimed capital city just in time to host the 1958 Commonwealth Games. Branded as “The Empire Games”, at the time it was the largest sporting event to be held in Wales. In 2012 Cardiff will be hosting the very first event of the Olympic Games on 25th July.

The population of Cardiff is around 320,000. The city is home to the Millennium Stadium and its very own castle (to name just a few of its landmarks). The stylish Cardiff Bay also houses the Wales Millennium Centre.

Wales has a number of other cities, Swansea, Bangor and Newport as well as the smallest City in the United Kingdom, St Davids.

As part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012, a total of 26 towns across the UK will compete for the right to become a city. Both St Asaph and Wrexham in North Wales are in the running to become one of Britain’s newest cities.