Entertainment
Tenby Blues Festival returns to Pembrokeshire for 2024
THE AWARD-WINNING Tenby Blues Festival is back from November 8-10, bringing three days of live music, community spirit, and a vibrant lineup spanning Blues, Rock, Soul, Country, Folk, and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Join in for a weekend where music unites and uplifts all who attend.
This year, three ticketed venues – De Valence, the Giltar Hotel, and Church House – will host over 20 national and international acts. Featured performers include American duo Erin Harpe & Jim Countryman with old-time acoustic tunes on Friday, the electrifying Hamilton Loomis on Saturday, a former guitarist for Bo Diddley, and the Michael Messer & Chaz Jankel Band on Sunday. Jankel, known for his work with Ian Dury and The Blockheads, will perform songs that defined an era. Tickets start at just £5.
Meanwhile, the popular Blues Trail will take over Tenby with 40 free performances across 20 locations, from cozy fish ‘n’ chip shops to upscale hotels. Running from noon to early evening on Saturday and Sunday, the trail showcases new and regular acts performing a mix of high-energy dance numbers, tender acoustic songs, and classic down-home blues.
For more information, including ticket purchases and schedules, visit tenbyblues.co.uk.
Festival Committee Chair, Chris Osborne, shared his excitement, saying, “We’re thrilled to present another diverse, affordable festival for the community. With increased supporter numbers, we’ve expanded the Blues Trail, adding more venues and acts. The Late Night Sessions at the Giltar Hotel, hosted by Bella Collins and her band, will offer a revamped jam format. And at De Valence, expect nine dynamic acts over three days, from James Oliver, dubbed the ‘Tommy Cooper of the Telecaster,’ to Sister Suzie’s swinging R’n’B juke joint jive. Why not come along?”
Tenby Blues Festival remains committed to supporting local culture and the community economy, with support from sponsors including Pure West Radio, The Giltar Hotel, Tenby Brewing Company, and Bluestone Brewing Company.
Entertainment
A new year but the same January traditions
December is a fairly extravagant month for most, with many people overspending on groceries, eating out, engaging in more frequent social gatherings, and purchasing numerous gifts However, January is often much more steady, with people trying to compensate for their indulgence in December by cutting back on their spending.
Whilst January is a time for steady living, it doesn’t mean it has to be a dull month! There are plenty of ways you can keep January in Pembrokeshire interesting without breaking the bank. Here are a few things you can do both offline and online to keep busy whilst reducing your spending after the holiday period.
Online entertainment
Nowadays you can find almost anything online, from things to watch to games to play. The internet offers endless possibilities for entertainment. Similarly, you can visit any country you like on the TV via YouTube, or you can learn a new hobby without expensive lessons.
Try online gaming
Online gaming is an excellent way to occupy yourself. Whether you prefer a simple racing game or want to completely immerse yourself in a fantasy world, there is something for everyone. Gaming with others online is also a great way to stay connected without the need to go out and spend money.
You could even take the thrill of gaming up a notch and try online casinos. Online slots can be a fun way to pass the time and playing for real money could add some excitement to your evenings. And those winter-themed slot motifs will sure make you feel better.
Binge watch a new TV series
Starting a new TV series can be very exciting, and with plenty of affordable streaming services available such as Netflix or Disney Plus, it’s easy to find a show, or several, that will keep you engaged for the entirety of January.
New hobbies
The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to start fresh and trying a new hobby is a good place to start. There are plenty of hobbies that involve little to no cost, such as baking, gardening, running, and reading. These are just a handful of low-cost hobbies you could take up.
Group activities
Consider doing group activities with friends which will allow you to split the costs. You could compete in a bake-off or ‘come dine with me’ style competition. Alternatively, if you still fancy going out, places like Thorpe Park or Go Ape offer group discounts which can help to reduce expenses.
You can still have fun and cut back!
By being a little more strategic, you can still enjoy January even whilst cutting back after an expensive December. From online gaming to trying new hobbies, you can keep busy without spending a fortune.
Entertainment
Paranormal Investigations Return to The Silver Mountain Experience
THE SILVER MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE, a popular visitor attraction near Aberystwyth, is kicking off the new year with a spine-chilling event as its renowned Paranormal Investigations return on January 25.
Over recent years, these investigations have delved into the eerie secrets hidden within the Victorian silver-lead mine at Ponterwyd, offering participants an unforgettable glimpse into the unknown.
Guests will step into the role of ghost hunters, using authentic ghost-hunting equipment to uncover what may lurk beneath the surface. This unique experience challenges the brave-hearted to explore one of the UK’s most haunted mines under the cover of darkness.
Armed with tools, guidance, and courage, participants will investigate various areas, from historic buildings to the haunting depths of the Victorian mine. The experience is fully immersive, leaving no room to hide as attendees face the unexplained head-on.
A team of paranormal experts and historians will accompany participants, providing direction and insight throughout the night. Using both cutting-edge scientific tools and traditional methods, the team aims to prove that the mine’s history is far from silent.
Tickets are limited and must be booked in advance at www.silvermountainexperience.co.uk/paranormal.
Business
How to plan financially without sacrificing your usual activities
Getting on top of your finances can feel daunting, particularly if you have hobbies that you don’t want to sacrifice. The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can save money without having to compromise on your favourite activities.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few suggestions that could help you better manage your finances whilst continuing to do the things you enjoy most.
Track your spending
Before making any changes, it’s a good idea to evaluate your current spending. In the age of online banking, regularly checking your bank account couldn’t be easier and doing so can offer you more control over your finances.
Consider going through your current outgoings and finding areas for improvement, such as overspending on groceries or identifying subscriptions you no longer need and cancelling them. You can use tools like budget planners to help track and manage your spending more efficiently.
Use second hand equipment
If your hobbies and interests require equipment, think about purchasing second hand instead of buying brand new. You can use sites such as eBay or Gumtree to find used equipment in good condition. Not only is buying second hand a great way to save money without missing out on the things you need, but it’s also less wasteful and better for the environment!
Make money from your hobby
Plenty of hobbies can be turned into an additional income. If you enjoy creating content online, consider monetising YouTube videos or joining the TikTok creator fund. If your interests involve creating things such as clothes or art, opening a shop on Etsy and selling your pieces is an excellent way to continue pursuing your hobby whilst earning a little extra.
Downsize your hobby
Finally, downsizing your existing hobbies and interests is a great way to reduce the expenses that come with them. If you enjoy exercise, consider working out from home to save money on gym memberships. If you’re learning a new language, utilise free tools and courses.
Alternatively, if gambling is more your scene, think about switching to online gambling. Online gambling sites typically offer more in terms of rewards than traditional brick-and-mortar bookies do. You can utilise sites like AskGamblers who make it easy to find free spin bonuses and sign up offers. Free spins bonuses are a great place to start as a beginner. You can typically use free spins on slot games and still land wins to later withdraw, given you’ve surpassed the wagering requirements.
Saving doesn’t have to be limiting
Cutting back on your spending and saving money doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the things you enjoy. By keeping track of your spending, reducing unnecessary costs, saving on purchases, and even finding ways to make money from the things you enjoy, you can continue to live life to the full whilst improving your finances.
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