Reynolds and McElhenney's milestone with second Wrexham stadium acquisition
The club, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has announced the purchase of the stadium, which has been the base for Wrexham Women since summer 2023 and the home ground of Cefn Druids since 2010.
This strategic move is part of the Hollywood owners' investment in the women's side of the club, establishing a permanent residence for the women's team at the 3,000-capacity stadium.
Cefn Druids will maintain their presence at the venue, continuing to play and train under the new ownership.
The stadium boasts a 512-seater stand and is named after its proximity to a former quarry, with one side of the pitch abutting a steep rock face.
Michael Williamson, CEO of Wrexham, commented: "The acquisition of The Rock represents a significant milestone for the club, providing Wrexham AFC Women with a permanent home and dedicated training facility," reports Wales Online.
"It illustrates our continued commitment to supporting and growing the women's game in North Wales.
"Having a venue in the Wrexham County Borough and close to the STōK Cae Ras gives us flexibility, allowing the Women's first team to train and play matches locally, while still having access to a larger venue when needed.
"We'll begin with essential maintenance ahead of the new season, followed by a longer-term vision to enhance the pitch, stadium, and surrounding infrastructure. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now
"Our goal is not only to establish a top-tier facility for our Women's team but also to protect and revitalise a key community asset, one that can inspire the next generation of women's football across the region."
Des Williams, Cefn Druids chairman, said: "I am delighted that The Rock passes into the hands of Wrexham AFC and becomes the official home and training centre of Wrexham AFC Women.
"Cefn Druids will continue to use the facility for training and fixtures, and this was an important part of the deal.
"Wrexham AFC Women have been using The Rock as their home now for the past two seasons ever since they reached the Adran Premier League.
"I can think of no more fitting venue for them to continue their adventure at the very highest level of Welsh women's football.
"I wish them all the very best of luck for the new season."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
South Wales Argus
an hour ago
- South Wales Argus
Only Men Aloud announce Monmouth and Cwmbran tour dates
The Welsh vocal group, who gained national fame after winning the BBC One competition Last Choir Standing in 2008, will perform at the Congress Theatre in Cwmbran on November 26 and the Savoy Theatre in Monmouth on November 29. The extended tour celebrates a quarter-century of performances that have taken the group from BBC's Songs of Praise to the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games and two Royal Variety Performances. Craig Yates, an original member of Only Men Aloud and now creative director of the Aloud Charity, said: "This is a celebration tour. "We've had a wonderful time with OMA, which has really evolved over the last 25 years." The group was founded in 2000 by Tim Rhys-Evans, who is now director of music at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. Originally a 25-member male voice choir, Only Men Aloud now performs as an eight-piece ensemble, with members balancing the group alongside careers in pharmacy, teaching, gardening, music, and musical theatre. Their breakthrough came in 2008 when they won Last Choir Standing, catapulting them to national recognition and a series of high-profile performances, including supporting Diana Ross at Cardiff Castle. Mr Yates said: "We're all adults now, with the range of family responsibilities which come with that. "We've all got jobs and OMA is a hobby – but what a hobby to have." Fans can expect an evening of stories, choral arrangements, and energetic adaptations during the anniversary tour. The tour will begin in Cardiff on September 27 at the New Theatre, where Only Boys Aloud will join them on stage. Other tour dates include Aberystwyth, Swansea, Llandudno, Llandrindod Wells, and Newtown. The group last performed an intimate five-date show last Christmas, but Mr Yates said this run is about more than just returning to the stage. He said: "It's been amazing and we are thankful that people still really enjoy listening to and seeing us. "It's lovely to be back." Tickets are available now through the Only Men Aloud website.
South Wales Argus
an hour ago
- South Wales Argus
Riverfront Theatre in Newport announces cast for Rapunzel
The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre in Newport will present Rapunzel as this year's pantomime, running from November 27 to January 4. The cast will feature both returning favourites and fresh faces, including Mandifadza Mupita, who joins the show for the first time as Tylwyth Teg the Forest Sprite. Originally from Swansea, Mr Mupita said: "This marks my first Christmas in Newport. "Panto holds a special place in my heart – it's the joyful reminder that we've made it through another year. "To now be part of telling that story is a true honour." Returning to the Riverfront stage is Chloe-Jo Byrnes, whose credits include Mamma Mia! in the West End and Fairy Daffodil in last year's pantomime Dick Whittington. Ms Byrnes said: "Panto is where so many of us first fall in love with the magic of theatre. "It brings the whole community together and I'm so excited to be returning to Newport for another unforgettable season." Jacob Bradford also returns after delighting audiences as Idle Jack in Dick Whittington. Mr Bradford said: "I'm thrilled to return to Newport. "Rapunzel is set to be a spectacular show – full of colour, music, and laughter. "I can't wait for audiences to see what we've been working on." The cast also includes Richard Elis, returning for his 14th pantomime at the Riverfront, and Gareth Tempest, who will once again take on the role of Dame. Rapunzel promises a magical adventure set in the heart of a Welsh forest, filled with vibrant characters, enchanting sets, and festive fun for audiences of all ages. To make the experience even more accessible, the Riverfront is offering a split-payment option for select performances, with tickets able to be secured from just £9 per person. The remaining balance can be paid by October 31, with instalment plans available for shows on November 29, December 5, 6, 12, 13, January 2, 3, and 4. Tickets are available now via the Newport Live website.
South Wales Argus
4 hours ago
- South Wales Argus
Pearl Slipper Burlesque to be held at Newport Riverfront
The Pearl Slipper Burlesque will take to the stage at The Riverfront on September 13, marking the first outing of a new touring cabaret show created by South Wales production company Quill & Pearl Presents. The show is curated and hosted by award-winning performer Oola Pearl, known as 'The Welsh Wonder.' Ms Pearl said: "Burlesque shows are a brilliant night out; funny, entertaining, sexy and joyful. "We want everyone in Wales to have the opportunity to come along and be part of the glitz and glamour." She has assembled a cast of rising stars from across the UK, including Bolly Ditz Dolly, and Pandora Carnage, a Burlesque Idol finalist. Welsh performers Lili Del Fflur, Goldie Luxe and It's Llewelyn will also appear, alongside Elena Candela, known as 'The Venezuelan Volcano.' The Pearl Slipper Burlesque is produced by Quill & Pearl Presents, a cabaret and theatre company founded by Oola Pearl and television writer and producer Kit Lambert. Ms Pearl is also co-producer of the sold-out Wales Burlesque Festival, which took place last year. Quill & Pearl's shows have already appeared at major venues across Wales, including the Wales Millennium Centre, Swansea Grand and Penarth Pier Pavilion. The company aims to bring high-quality burlesque to audiences across the country while giving professional performers a platform to shine. Burlesque is a form of live entertainment that blends comedy, drama, elaborate costumes, storytelling and striptease. It has a strong tradition of body positivity, self-expression and humour, and is renowned for its inclusive, female-dominated audiences and LGBTQ+ appeal. Ms Pearl said the show is designed to be accessible and entertaining for everyone. She said: "Whether you've never been to a burlesque night before, or if you're already a die-hard fan, The Pearl Slipper Burlesque is guaranteed to entertain." The show is strictly for audiences aged 18 and over. Tickets are priced at £16.50 and can be booked via the Newport Live website.
