News

Hoteliers master class with Raymond Blanc

Published

11 years ago

November 27, 2014

Tom Sinclair

Master class: The people involved.

A WELSH GOVERNMENT led initiative has given 13 of Wales’ top hoteliers an opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business by spending the day at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, the Oxfordshire award winning hotel owned by Raymond Blanc. Among them were Tommy Simmons, Head Chef, Wolfscastle Country Hotel; Neil Kedward, Owner, Grove Hotel and Coast and Mark White, General Manager, St Brides Spa Hotel. The visit was part of a Learning Journeys programme run by Visit Wales as part of the strategic aim of improving both the quality of the tourism product and the profitability of tourism businesses.

During their time at le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, on Monday (October 21), he group had the opportunity to meet with Raymond Blanc; tour the kitchen and discuss sourcing with Rhodri Williams, Executive Sous Chef; a bedroom tour with the Belmond Interior Designer as well discussing operations and marketing before finishing with Question and Answer session with the General Manager. Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates, said: “These learning journeys provide a unique experience for the attendees and give them an opportunity to learn and have a behind the scenes look at some of the best in the business – in this instance – Raymond Blanc’s prestigious hotel.

I’m delighted that this group – who represent some of Wales’ most iconic hotels – have also agreed to host a similar event at their businesses, therefore creating mentoring culture of information sharing and learning which will help improve quality across all sectors of the tourism industry.” Raymond Blanc, said: “It’s always enjoyable to meet ones colleagues. This week, I have welcomed hoteliers from Wales to Le Manoir with my team to show them our organisation and behind the scenes. I have greatly enjoyed meeting them to share ideas, opportunities and some of our initiatives.”

Mark White, General Manager, St Brides Spa Hotel, said: “I found the day to be both interesting and inspirational, I will use some of the tips on guest experience, service and standards with my team to improve on the excellence we strive for at the St Brides Hotel and Spa. It was excellent to meet with Raymond Blanc who was humble and someone who has not forgotten his culture and heritage and the passion for developing a strong team.” Tom Simmons, Head Chef at Wolfscastle Country Hotel, said: “Raymond Blanc’s speech was one most inspiring talks I’ve ever listened to.

It’s taught me to follow one path and be confident in what I do. I’m also looking forward to be doing a 3 day stage internship at Le Manoir next month to give me further inspiration. It was a truly memorable experience and I’ve taken so much away with me.” Neil Kedward from the Grove, Narberth, said: “It was a huge learning journey for everybody who attended and you could feel that all the attendees were genuinely inspired by what must be some of the highest standards of hospitality delivered anywhere in the world. Personally, I had a huge list of actions to take back to The Grove.” Learning Journeys will now be arranged for the attractions and activities sector.

Crime

Stolen vehicle investigation after late-night crash in Waterston

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A VEHICLE involved in a late-night single-vehicle crash in Waterston, Milford Haven, is believed to have been stolen, police have confirmed.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received a report of the collision at around 11:55pm on Sunday (May 17).

The vehicle was recovered at approximately 1:15am on Monday (May 18), but nobody was found at the scene.

Following enquiries, police established that the vehicle had reportedly been stolen at some point during Sunday evening.

Officers said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

News

Labour names Senedd spokesperson team after election defeat

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Ken Skates says group will focus on holding new Welsh Government to account

INTERIM Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates has unveiled the party’s Senedd spokesperson team following its defeat in the recent election.

Mr Skates will act as interim leader of Welsh Labour and spokesperson for health, care and national security.

He said the Labour group would draw on “extensive experience” while bringing “fresh energy and ideas” to its work in opposition.

The party said its Senedd group was committed to holding the new Welsh Government to account and pushing for practical results for the people of Wales.

Jayne Bryant MS has been appointed spokesperson for housing, communities, public and preventative health, with women’s health also included in her brief.

Mike Hedges MS will cover culture, sport, local government and legislation.

Vikki Howells MS becomes Chief Whip and spokesperson for environment, farming, energy and transport. Her portfolio also includes planning.

Lynne Neagle MS has been named Business Manager and spokesperson for children, education and lifelong learning.

Shav Taj MS will cover employment, equalities and economic transformation, including social partnership.

Huw Thomas MS has been appointed spokesperson for finance, democracy, citizenship and the Welsh language. Regional and city deals will also fall within his brief.

Welsh Labour said Sarah Murphy’s portfolio will be announced when she returns from maternity leave.

A photo call with the Welsh Labour Senedd Group is due to take place in Cardiff Bay on Tuesday (May 19), although no interviews will be available.

News

Welsh Secretary holds first call with new First Minister

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Jo Stevens and Rhun ap Iorwerth discuss poverty, public services, clean energy, steelmaking and economic growth

WELSH Secretary Jo Stevens has held her first call with Wales’ new First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth following the recent Senedd election.

The call took place today, Monday (May 18), with Ms Stevens congratulating Mr ap Iorwerth on Plaid Cymru’s election results and his appointment as First Minister.

The Welsh Secretary said it was important for the UK and Welsh Governments to work constructively together on shared priorities.

Those issues include the cost of living, poverty, public services, economic growth and the delivery of clean energy infrastructure in Wales.

Ms Stevens also raised the importance of collaboration on Welsh steelmaking and the transition at Port Talbot, as well as growth funds, defence and national security.

The conversation follows a call last week between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the new First Minister, during which Mr Starmer also congratulated him on his appointment.

The Prime Minister has offered to meet Mr ap Iorwerth in person in June to discuss shared issues and priorities.