Latest news with #Wales
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Business
- Yahoo
'Sharpened focus' for Market Hall as owners to sell Welsh shopping centre
THE new owners of Carlisle's Market Hall are set to sell a shopping centre in North Wales in a move they say will help 'sharpen focus' on other active regeneration schemes. The Menai Centre, owned by Bearmont Capital, will go to auction with Savills on June 17 with a guide price of £4.2m. Bearmont Capital, the leaseholder that took over Carlisle's Market Hall in December last year amid concerns about the historic site's future, has a portfolio focused on "rejuvenating undervalued shopping centres, enhancing footfall and tenant mix to create sustainable retail spaces." Carlisle's Market Hall first opened in 1889 (Image: Stuart Walker) The Llandudno-based company took on The Menai Centre in Bangor in 2023. Rob Lloyd, CEO of Bearmont Group and former Channel 4 Secret Millionaire, said the decision to sell marks the natural conclusion of the company's original investment programme for the site. "The Menai Centre was always a longer-term investment, and we're incredibly proud of the progress made since acquiring it in 2023," he said. "At that time, the 130,000 sq ft building was approximately 80 per cent vacant, having lost major tenants like Debenhams and H&M during the pandemic. "Since then, Bearmont Capital has invested significantly in breathing new life into the site - attracting new occupiers, securing long-term tenancies, and working closely with partners to support a key regeneration scheme in Bangor. "Today, the centre is virtually fully occupied, playing a renewed role in the local economy," he said. Among the 'significant milestones' at the site is said to be the transformation of the former Debenhams unit into a health and wellbeing hub, developed in partnership with Cyngor Gwynedd and the Betsi Cadwaladr health board, and backed by Welsh Government funding. "We've successfully delivered on everyone's wants, needs and aspirations in bringing that hub to life, and it stands as a great example of how we want to work: in true partnership with local authorities to drive real community value," Rob said. "That same collaborative approach is exactly what we're looking forward to continuing with Cumberland Council." In Carlisle, the Bearmont Group has so far completed external restoration efforts to the covered market , which first opened in 1889, and yesterday (May 30), welcomed B&M into the 20,487sq ft vacant space which was formerly occupied by Wilko. "Since purchasing The Market Hall, we've already completed phases one to three of investment and welcomed B&M this morning into a fully refurbished, bright, and impressive new store. B&M moves into former Wilko unit in Carlisle (Image: NQ) "A second new retailer is due to open in Units 5 and 6 next week. "It's an exciting time with real momentum behind the scheme, and we remain committed to delivering long-term, sustainable improvements across all our sites," Rob said. Phase four of investment into the site, which includes refurbishing the old toilet block, is currently ongoing with Bearmont working with local contractor Cubby Construction.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What's On in Newport: Half-term finale packed with music and family fun
Newport is set for a weekend of entertainment as half-term draws to a close. From music festivals to family fun days, there's something for everyone in the city. Kicking off the weekend on Saturday, May 31, is the Pirates In The Port Sea Shanty Festival. (Image: Supplied) The event, organised by local Welsh shanty group Bois Y Bryn, will bring the tradition of sea shanties and folk music to life. From 11am to 7pm, multiple venues in the city centre, including The Riverfront Theatre, will host this lively festival. Entry is free and no booking is required. On the same day, Brazilian thrash crossover band Ratos De Porão will perform at The Cab, Newport. (Image: Supplied) The intimate gig, supported by bands Harrowed, Zero Again, Rank, and Mortal Karcass, will start at 6.30pm. A small number of tickets will be available on the door. (Image: Supplied) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time continues its run at the Dolman Theatre. Presented by Dolman Theatreworks, the play tells the story of a gifted boy, Christopher Boone, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery while investigating the killing of a dog. The show will be performed on Saturday, May 31, at 7.15pm. Sunday, June 1, sees the return of the free family event, A Teddy Bears Picnic, at the top of Beechwood Park. (Image: Supplied) From 2pm to 5pm, attendees can enjoy a cartoon character disco, inflatable slides and castles, face painting, dance act performances, musical performances, bubble fun, a parrot display, and more. Families are encouraged to bring their favourite teddy and a picnic blanket. With such a wide range of activities on offer, there's no shortage of things to do in Newport this weekend. Whether you're a music lover, theatre enthusiast, or looking for a fun family day out, Newport has it all. So, whether you're planning to sing along with the shanty singers, rock out to Ratos De Porão, watch the adventures of Christopher Boone, or join in the fun at the Teddy Bears Picnic, Newport has a weekend full of activities to round off half-term. Enjoy the festivities and make the most of the weekend.
Sky News
6 hours ago
- Business
- Sky News
Fears for future of Welsh rugby amid cuts to grassroots scheme
There are fears for the future of Welsh rugby amid cuts to grassroots funding and a record string of defeats for the men's senior national team. The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) recently confirmed it would stop funding a scheme created to develop the game at grassroots level. Its rugby hub officers have been employed in schools across Wales since 2014, with match funding from the WRU. Their main purpose has been to engage young people in rugby and encourage them to pursue their interest in the sport in local clubs. The governing body for rugby union in Wales says the aim would be for a "restructured programme" with "100% coverage" across the country. The change in approach comes at a difficult time for the WRU, which reported a loss of £7.5m last year. A petition calling for the WRU to reconsider its decision to discontinue the scheme has been signed nearly 5,000 times, describing the hub officers as the "backbone of grassroots rugby". Some areas who have felt the benefit of the officers are fearing for the future of the grassroots game. Einion Davies is the chairman of Bro Gwernant Rugby Club in Llangollen, Denbighshire. This weekend, he is embarking on a sponsored walk to raise funds to secure the role for the next two years. Mr Davies told Sky News he was "shocked" to learn the hub officer scheme was coming to an end. "We were informed school that he works at, that the funding has been withdrawn," he said. "And the work that he's done there, as a club, we were keen to keep it all going, so we decided as a club to try and raise some of that money ourselves so we can keep him in his role." 'Big mistake' There was "hardly any rugby" played in the "predominantly football-orientated" area before a hub officer was appointed for the area, Mr Davies said. But he acknowledged that money was "tight" and that difficult decisions had to be made. "I would imagine, they've got to make cuts and whatever in some places. But, in my opinion, to cut the grassroots, an investment in grassroots, is a big mistake," he added. He hopes his 54-mile trek, split over three days, will help secure the role and help Bro Gwernant find the next generation of Welsh rugby stars. "As a club, we did put some of the money towards it as well, because obviously the cost, the National Insurance and everything's gone up, so the cost of the wages has gone up," he said. "So we were doing the fundraising anyway, but since this funding's been withdrawn from the WRU, it's made it a lot harder for the club. "We're striving to do our best to keep him, but it's made it a lot more difficult." The WRU said schools and educational establishments, who part-fund the programme, are "free to reconsider how they re-allocate their investment in rugby" as a result of its decision. Geraint John, the WRU's community director said: "Due to an internal consultation process we are unable to expand on our future plans for community further than the statement published last month.
The Independent
6 hours ago
- Health
- The Independent
Disposable vapes ban to come into force in bid to improve health and cut litter
Disposable vapes are banned from the shelves of all shops from Sunday in a bid to cut their use among young people as well as the 'avalanche' of litter they create. The crackdown on the devices, also known as single-use vapes, makes it illegal for any retailer – ranging from corner shops to supermarkets – to sell them. The ban applies to both online and in-store sales across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and all disposable vapes whether or not they contain nicotine. Retailers are still allowed to sell reusable vapes. It follows the soaring use of disposable vapes in schools and a flood of plastic rubbish from the discarding of the devices. Disposable vapes are non-refillable and unable to be recharged, and are typically thrown away with general waste in black bins or littered rather than recycled. Even when they are recycled, they need to be taken apart by hand, while their batteries are a fire risk to recycling facilities and can leak harmful chemicals into the environment. Rogue traders who continue to sell them risk a fine of £200 in the first instance, followed by an unlimited fine or jail time for repeat offending. Figures from the charity Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) suggests the number of vapers in Great Britain who mainly use single-use devices fell from 30% in 2024 to 24% in 2025, while the use of disposables by 18 to 24-year-old vapers fell from 52% in 2024 to 40% in 2025. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said usage among young vapers remained too high, and the ban would 'put an end to their alarming rise in school playgrounds and the avalanche of rubbish flooding the nation's streets'. Circular economy minister Mary Creagh said: 'For too long, single-use vapes have blighted our streets as litter and hooked our children on nicotine. That ends today. 'The Government calls time on these nasty devices.' Ash deputy chief executive Caroline Cerny said: 'It's promising to see that many people switched away from disposable vapes to re-usable products well ahead of the ban. This is particularly marked among young people, who were more likely to use disposable products due to their attractiveness, affordability, and heavy marketing. 'This new law is a step towards reducing vaping among children, while ensuring products are available to support people to quit smoking. It will be up to manufacturers and retailers to ensure customers are informed and able to reuse and recycle their products securing a real change in consumer behaviour and a reduction in environmental waste. 'If behaviour does not change then further regulations will be possible following the passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.' Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman said: 'We have been working with retailers, the Government and Trading Standards for months on providing detailed guidance that sets out how to spot non-compliant vapes after the ban comes into force, as well as advising retailers on what they need to do with any stock of disposables left over on June 1. 'We strongly support robust enforcement activity, starting with the businesses that are already openly flouting the rules by selling illicit product and who will continue to sell disposable vapes once they're outlawed. 'It is essential that Trading Standards teams are given the resources they need to get illegal vapes and other products off the streets, as these rogue businesses undermine the work of responsible retailers across the country.' The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) said its members had moved quickly to bring new fully compliant products to market well ahead of the June 1 deadline, but warned of 'serious unintended consequences' of bans as a regulatory measure. UKVIA director general John Dunne said: 'Vaping was invented to help adult smokers quit and disposable products became the most successful vape products to do so because they are simple to use and most closely replicate the sensation of smoking. 'We are concerned that this ban will encourage former smokers who have already transitioned from cigarettes – which kill 220 people every day in the UK – to return to combustible tobacco or opt for unregulated vapes. 'We also have clear evidence, from countries including the USA and Australia, showing that black market, counterfeit and illicit vape sales spiked when vape bans and restrictions are introduced.' The separate Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently working its way through Parliament, also includes powers to potentially restrict the packaging, marketing and flavours of e-cigarettes.
The Guardian
7 hours ago
- General
- The Guardian
Women's Nations League: Wales and Scotland both relegated after defeats
Wales and Scotland both had their likely relegations confirmed while the Republic of Ireland enjoyed a late winner on a dramatic night of Women's Nations League action. Wales lost 1-0 away to Denmark in controversial fashion in Group A4. Rhian Wilkinson's team had realistically required victory in Odense to avoid being sent down to League B but Pernille Harder's 48th-minute strike consigned them to a third defeat of the campaign and bottom spot. It could have been a different story had Jess Fishlock's first-half effort been awarded, with her follow-up shot seemingly crossing the line but not given by the officials and with no VAR in operation, Wales went down narrowly. A 2-1 home loss to Denmark in April put Wales on the verge of relegation from the top tier and they got off to a poor start with defender Mayzee Davies forced off after only six minutes. The 18-year-old sustained a knee issue which could put in doubt her participation in this summer's European Championship. The Welsh did regroup and a moment of controversy occurred midway through the half when Ceri Holland was denied by Maja Bay Østergaard and Fishlock sent an effort towards goal, but Stine Ballisager got back to clear. Replays later appeared to show the ball had crossed the line, but it remained goalless at the break after Amalie Vangsgaard squandered a fine opportunity for Denmark and Harder was twice thwarted in quick succession. It would not take Harder long after half-time to break the deadlock, though, as the Danish forward slotted home in the 48th minute. Wales had chances but relegation to League B was confirmed. Melissa Andreatta began her tenure as Scotland head coach with a 1-0 defeat by Austria which confirmed their relegation and meant they are without a point from their five games to date. The lacklustre home side were fortunate to go into the interval level at Hampden Park with goalkeeper Lee Gibson in fine form. However, the more dominant visitors broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute of the Group A1 clash when ever-dangerous attacker Julia Hickelsberger glanced in a header from a corner. Scotland picked up later in the second half but ended the game still bottom of the tabl. Their final fixture of the campaign comes against the Netherlands on Tuesday for their final fixture, which will also be the final international outing of their captain Rachel Corsie, who came on as a substitute on Friday. Barcelona star Ewa Pajor scored twice within the opening nine minutes as Poland romped to a 4-0 Group B1 win over Northern Ireland in Belfast. Pajor celebrated her 100th senior international cap with a quickfire double at Seaview before Paulina Tomasiak and Adriana Achcinska put the game beyond Tanya Oxtoby's side, who travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday needing a point to finish second behind the Euro 2025-bound Poles. Sign up to Moving the Goalposts No topic is too small or too big for us to cover as we deliver a twice-weekly roundup of the wonderful world of women's football after newsletter promotion The hosts enjoyed a huge escape inside the opening 60 seconds when Pajor lobbed advancing goalkeeper Jackie Burns and saw her attempt bounce over the bar and on to the roof of the vacant net. However, the respite proved temporary and Pajor gave Poland a fifth-minute lead and then doubled her tally four minutes later after catching the keeper in possession. Paulina Tomasiak made is 3-0 before Adriana Achcinska added a fourth shortly after the restart. Northern Ireland finished strongly with Rebecca Holloway and Rebecca McKenna both going close to a consolation goal before substitute Emily Wilson hit the bar at the death. Substitute Emily Murphy's first senior international goal handed the Republic of Ireland a 2-1 comeback victory in Turkey to secure second spot in Group B2. Murphy's 89th-minute winner, which came after Busem Seker's own goal had cancelled out Kader Hancar's opener at the Esenler Stadium, sent Ireland into Tuesday night's home clash with group leaders Slovenia just three points adrift.
