Entertainment
How to improve your home in a cost of living crisis

Welsh households have faced an increase in the cost of living over the last few years. Between 2022 and 2023, nearly half of Welsh residents (43%) reported a worsening of their financial situation.
With bills ever on the rise, things like home improvements have taken a back seat in an effort to save money. However, making some improvements to your home can be advantageous and there are plenty of ways to make positive changes without having to break the bank.
Benefits of home improvements
Enhanced comfort
Your home should be a positive and comforting place to be. When there are aspects of your home that you’re not happy with, it can create a negative environment. As the cost of living crisis takes its toll on people’s mental wellbeing, creating a safe and comfortable space is more important than ever.
Increased house value
Perhaps the biggest advantage to home improvements – increasing the value of your home. It’s important to make your home as valuable as possible if you’re looking to sell. A few touch ups and improvements here and there can make a significant difference to your home and increase its value substantially.
Better energy efficiency
Swapping out older elements, like lightbulbs, for more energy efficient ones is a great way to not only improve aesthetics but also keep costs down in the long run.
How to improve your home for less
Get painting
Painting is one of the easiest and most effective ways to transform a home. A fresh coat of paint on a tired looking wall or a splash of colour in a dull room can make all the difference in a bedroom, living room, or hallway. Professional decorators in Wales cost around £15 to £25 per hour or £150 to £190 per day, but you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself.
Kitchens and bathrooms can also benefit from a lick of paint. Painting kitchen cabinets is an easy way to modernise the space and bathrooms can be completely revamped with a bit of colour.
Upcycle furniture
With platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Gumtree, it’s easy to find inexpensive furniture that you can transform into great pieces for your home. Instead of spending hundreds of pounds in IKEA, you can spend significantly less purchasing old furniture that with some cleaning, sanding, and painting, can be remoulded into a lavish piece for your home.
Swap out old lighting
Lighting can make a huge difference to the ambiance of a room. Consider replacing old bulbs with energy efficient warm white LEDs. Not only will the room have a cosier feel, but you’ll also be lowering your energy bills.
Add a touch of nature
Plants are a great way to make a house feel more like a home, and they have plenty of health benefits. To keep costs down, fake plants are a great alternative. They offer the same aesthetic benefits but are less expensive and require very little maintenance.
Home improvements worth spending more on
Some aspects of home improvements are better left to the professionals in order to get it right the first time.
Upholstery cleaning
Refreshing something you already own is almost always a cheaper and easier alternative to buying brand new. Professional upholstery cleaning services start from £49 per hour which is significantly cheaper than re-carpeting your entire house or purchasing a new sofa which could set you back thousands. By giving dull furniture a good clean, you can give your home a new lease of life.
Electrics and plumbing
Whilst there is a lot you can do yourself, it’s important to leave things like plumbing or electrical elements to the professionals as it can be difficult, or even dangerous, and getting it wrong could cost you considerably more in repairs. On average, the hourly rate of an electrician is £33 and a plumber is £32 per hour in Wales.
Small changes can have a big impact
Improving your home during a cost of living crisis is entirely possible as long as you’re smart about it. By doing things yourself or giving old items a new lease of life, you can massively cut down on costs and give your home the refresh that it needs.
Entertainment
Let’s ‘raise a little hell this spring’ at The Torch Theatre

STARRING Tony-Nominee Jeremy Jordan and Olivier-Nominee Frances Mayli McCann, this award-winning, cult-favourite production Bonnie and Clyde The Musical (including Best New Musical – What’s On Stage Awards 2023) re-tells the unbelievable true story of America’s most infamous couple, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. Watch the lovers as they go on a crime spree on the Torch Theatre screen this May.
Captured in stunning, world-class quality, the musical follows the most notorious lovers and bank robbers who take the country by storm in a sexy and compelling adventure. Recorded live at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane, discover the electrifying story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of an entire nation.
At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie and Clyde went from being two small-town nobodies in west Texas to America’s most renowned folk heroes who created a serious headache for the law enforcements. From kidnappings to murders in the 1930’s, the lovers robbed gas stations, restaurants, and smalltown stores in the areas of New Mexico, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas and it is believed that they murdered at least nine police officers and four civilians before being shot and killed in an ambush near Sailes, Louisiana.
Bonnie and Clyde The Musical can be seen on the Torch Theatre screen on Thursday 1 May at 7pm. Tickets: £15.00 | £13.00 Cons | £8.50 Under 26. Visit the website for further details www.torchtheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267.
Entertainment
Eyewear trends for Summer 2025

Glasses today are more than a tool for seeing clearly. They’ve become part of how people express themselves. The right pair of glasses can lift your look, match your mood, or even highlight your personality. In Summer 2025, glasses are doing all of this – and more.
More people now shop for glasses online, which means more styles to choose from than ever before. From bold colours to soft minimalist designs, this season is full of surprises.
Let’s dive into the biggest eyewear trends this summer and how you can find a pair that fits your face and your life.
Glasses as everyday fashion
People no longer wear glasses just because they have to. They wear them because they like how they look in them. In fact, a recent report from the UK shows that around 77% of women and 68% of men wear glasses. Not only that, but many say style plays a big part in their choice.
That means eyewear brands are stepping up. You’ll now see more variety in colour, frame shapes, and materials. People are matching glasses with outfits, occasions, and even seasons. For many, it’s now a fashion accessory – just like a handbag or a pair of shoes.
The retro revival
Old-school styles are back again. Glasses that remind you of the 50s and 60s are making a big comeback. Cat-eye frames, thick square shapes, and perfectly round metal rims are all trending in 2025.
But don’t worry – they are not exactly the same as the old versions. These modern takes are lighter, made from better materials, and more comfortable to wear all day. They’re strong without being heavy and stylish without being too much.
Cat-eye styles suit a lot of face shapes. Round frames are great if you want a softer look. Chunky rectangles bring a bolder feel. If you want to add some character to your look, retro styles are an easy win.
Minimalist metal frames
Not everyone wants bold or colourful glasses. Some prefer a clean, simple look – and for them, metal frames are still a top choice.
They’re light, easy to wear, and come in soft tones like silver, gold, and rose. Many people who wear their glasses all day prefer metal frames because they don’t feel heavy on the nose or ears.
These frames also suit smaller faces because they don’t take up too much space or look oversized. You can wear them at work, at home, or out with friends. They match almost everything.
Colours that pop
Colour is having a big moment in eyewear this year. Frames in bright blue, deep burgundy, green, orange, and even lilac are flying off shelves. Two-tone styles are also popular. That’s when the front of the frame is one colour, and the arms are another.
You don’t need loud colours to join this trend. A navy-blue frame or soft blush pink is enough to make your glasses stand out a little.
Wearing glasses with colour can lift your whole look – especially if you normally dress in neutral clothes. It adds just the right touch without feeling overdone.
Oversized sunglasses take over
Sunglasses this summer are going big. Oversized shapes are not only fashionable but also protect your eyes better from the sun.
Larger lenses block more UV rays, which helps prevent eye problems later in life. Yet, many people still forget to wear sunglasses with proper protection. That’s slowly changing now, and style is helping with that.
Big square frames, wide round lenses, and sunglasses with a slight gradient in the tint are leading the pack. These are great for long beach days, road trips, or just walking outside on a sunny afternoon.
Frames that speak for you
Want your glasses to be the main part of your look? Then you’ll love the statement frame trend. These glasses are bold, fun, and full of attitude.
Designers are getting creative with shapes this season – hexagons, super-wide rectangles, and even butterfly-inspired designs are showing up in stores. Many frames are also mixing materials. For example, plastic arms with a metal front or matte finishes combined with glossy details.
These glasses are great for days when you want to stand out. You may not wear them to work or serious events, but they’re perfect for festivals, casual outings, or weekend brunch.
Eco-friendly eyewear
Sustainable living is growing in every area of fashion – including glasses. Eco-friendly eyewear is now easier to find, with more brands using recycled or plant-based materials.
Frames made from bio-acetate, repurposed plastics, and even old fishing nets are now part of new collections. They’re just as stylish and strong as traditional materials. Plus, they often come in earthy colours like moss green, ocean blue, and warm sand tones.
People who care about the environment are turning to these frames. They feel good to wear – and good to buy.
Prescription sunglasses: Simple and smart
Anyone who wears spectacles full-time knows how tricky it is to deal with the sun. You either use clip-ons, switch between glasses, or just squint your way through.
This summer, prescription sunglasses are becoming the smart, simple solution. They protect your eyes from sunlight and help you see clearly – without switching between pairs.
The styles are also getting better. You’ll find prescription sunglasses in mirrored lenses, classic dark tints, and even soft pastel shades. They’re useful, stylish, and a growing trend among people who spend time outdoors.
The shift to online shopping
More and more people now buy their glasses online. It’s fast, often cheaper, and gives you access to styles you won’t find in nearby shops.
Modern tools make it easy to find the right fit. Virtual try-on features, face shape guides, and side-by-side comparisons help people feel confident about their choices.
Shopping online also saves time. You don’t have to travel or wait for long appointments. Instead, you can browse, compare, and buy – all from your phone or laptop.
What’s more, delivery is quicker than before, and returns are usually easy. That’s why online shopping for glasses at stores like Glasses2you is growing year after year.
The takeaway
Eyewear in summer 2025 is all about choice. You can go bold or keep it simple. You can try a throwback look or test out something futuristic. You can even choose glasses that match your values by going eco-friendly.
There’s something for everyone – fashion lovers, quiet minimalists, sun chasers, and sustainability supporters.The only real rule this year? Wear what makes you feel good. Because the best glasses aren’t just the ones that help you see better. They’re the ones that help others see you more clearly, too.
Entertainment
Spring into the Easter holidays with family fun across the Park

THE EASTER HOLIDAY promises action-packed fun in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with family-friendly activities taking place across the Park and at the Authority’s three main attractions – Carew Castle, Castell Henllys and Oriel y Parc. The events coincide with the start of Discover National Parks Fortnight (4 to18 April), which celebrates the UK’s protected landscapes.

At Carew Castle, visitors can look forward to trails, tales and plenty of medieval mischief. From Saturday 5 April to Sunday 27 April, Bunny’s Big Egg Hunt invites children to search the Castle grounds for hidden eggs using a smartphone, with a sweet reward for those who succeed. The ever-popular Horrid Histories will also return with gory stories and terrible tales of Castle life, included free with admission on weekdays at 11am from 7 to 25 April.
Those in search of adventure can take on Find the Key!, a quest to uncover four hidden keys – only one of which unlocks the Castle’s treasure chest. The challenge takes place daily at 3pm, excluding Tuesdays. On those days – 8, 15 and 22 April – the focus shifts to a Guided Family Castle Tour at 1.30pm, followed by FIRE! Launch of the Giant Trebuchet at 2.30pm, when the legendary siege engine is set into motion.
The Storymaster’s Quests: Castle of Adventure will return with immersive fantasy experiences created by Oliver McNeil and voiced by Tom Baker. Suitable for ages 6+, tickets are £6 per person, with Castle admission also applying. Dates vary. See website for further details.
To round off the fun, the Mini Easter Fair runs from 18 to 21 April, offering rides and games for younger visitors. Small charges apply.
For opening times and booking information, visit www.carewcastle.com.

At Castell Henllys Iron Age Village, families will be able to travel back in time this Easter with a mix of hands-on activities and ancient skills.
On Tuesdays 15 and 22 April, Druid Magic offers the chance to light fires, bake bread and try traditional face painting, while learning how the Druids of Iron Age Britain connected with the world around them.
Fun in the Fort on Wednesdays 16 and 23 April features a changing line-up of prehistoric crafts, while Discovery Days on Thursdays 17 and 24 April invite visitors to try something new – from ancient techniques to creative experiments inspired by the past.
A new Family Spinning Workshop on Sunday 13 April will teach the ancient art of turning fleece into yarn using a drop spindle. Sessions take place at 11am and 1.30pm. See website for booking information.
Further information can be found at www.castellhenllys.com.
At Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre in St Davids, the focus turns to nature, creativity and seasonal celebration. Running from 12 to 27 April, the Egg Trail Adventure will invite young explorers to search the site for beautifully designed eggs inspired by local birdlife.
Hands-on fun continues with two drop-in Make & Take workshops. On Wednesday 16 April, visitors can build a cosy shelter for hedgehogs in time for Hedgehog Awareness Week. The following Wednesday, 23 April, children can create a colourful pinecone insect in the Ladybird Sanctuary Workshop.
For those looking for a deeper creative experience, a Foraged Poetry Prints Workshop with artist Bean Sawyer will take place on Thursday 24 April from 10am–1pm. Using cyanotype printing and found fragments of poetry, participants will create striking blue-toned artwork using natural materials. Booking is essential.
Visitors can also browse the St Davids and Solva Art Group exhibition from 17 to 23 April, showcasing spring-themed work by local artists, with proceeds supporting charity.
To find out more, visit www.orielyparc.co.uk.

Beyond the main attractions, visitors can enjoy a selection of guided walks and wildlife experiences across the wider National Park.
On Thursday 10 April, the Smugglers and Pirates Walk sets off from Solva Harbour at 10am. This 3.5-mile coastal route reveals hidden coves, Iron Age forts and tales of maritime mischief.
Later in the month, bird enthusiasts can enjoy two chances to connect with the Park’s feathered residents. On Thursday 24 April, What’s That Bird? at Minwear Wood will help participants learn how to identify woodland species by sight and sound, guided by a National Park Ranger. The season concludes with a peaceful Dawn Chorus Walk on Sunday 27 April, starting from Lower Fishguard at 6am — an early morning opportunity to welcome the day to the sound of birdsong.
To plan your visit and discover more events, go to www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events.
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