Entertainment

Understanding the cryptocurrency industry

Published

3 weeks ago

April 23, 2025

Since cryptocurrency first emerged it has grown significantly in popularity, particularly in recent years. However, as an outsider, it can be difficult to understand what it is, how it works, and why it’s used. So, here’s a quick guide to cryptocurrency.

What is cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that allows for secure transactions online. Traditionally, currencies like the US dollar or euro are operated by a bank or a central authority. Crypto, however, operates independently and negates the need for a middleman (a bank), in turn making transactions faster and more secure.

How does cryptocurrency work?

Cryptocurrency works on a decentralised network and uses blockchain technology – a shared ledger that records all transactions and assets (both tangible and intangible) across a network of computers. Users (also known as miners or validators) maintain this ledger whilst each transaction is approved by a protocol known as a ‘consensus mechanism’.

Types of cryptocurrencies

There are several types of cryptocurrencies available. Bitcoin, created in 2009, was the first and is the most widely known cryptocurrency.

Other notable cryptocurrencies include Ethereum, Tether, XRP, BNB, and Solana. Some cryptocurrencies, such as Tether (USDT), are set to the value of a traditional currency to minimise the unpredictability that’s often seen in the cryptocurrency market.

How cryptocurrency can be used

Cryptocurrency is used for a variety of purposes. Here are some of the most popular:

Investing and trading

Cryptocurrency is commonly used for investment purposes. Investors can purchase cryptocurrencies and if their value increases over time, they can sell them on and make a profit. They can also be traded using sites like Coinbase.

Online purchases

Numerous businesses now accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment. For example, PayPal now lets users buy, sell, and use cryptocurrency to pay for goods and services online.

Gambling

Crypto casinos have seen an increase in popularity, and are used as a more secure method to gamble online. If you plan on using crypto casinos there are a few things to look out for:

Licensing

Licensed and regulated casinos follow certain standards for fairness and security based on a regulatory body such as the UK Gambling Commission. Unregulated casinos are often sought after because they usually have better bonuses and fewer restrictions. However, they do come with an increased risk of security threats.

KYC (Know Your Customer)

KYC is a legal requirement that verifies user identities and helps ensure no illegal financial activities take place – for comparison, crypto casinos with no KYC don’t have this extra step in security. As such, casinos with KYC are typically more secure, however, those without avoid users going through the longer verification processes.

Customer support

Having helpful and responsive customer support is essential. You need to be able to raise and dispute any issues you run into, whether it be unfair gameplay or trouble with payments.

The future of cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is just one of the many financial advancements that have been made in recent years to keep up with the digital age. This digital currency offers freedom, security, and transparency with online transactions and as they evolve, they are set to play an increasingly significant role in the financial world.

Entertainment

Peppa Pig heads to the Torch for a cinema adventure full of family fun

Published

21 hours ago

May 15, 2025

Tom Sinclair

PEPPA PIG is back on the big screen this half term with a brand new adventure – and this time, there’s a new baby in the family!

The Peppa Meets the Baby Cinema Experience is coming to the Torch Theatre, promising an oinktastic outing for children and their families. Join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig as they prepare for the arrival of a new sibling, with plenty of laughs, mischief, and touching moments along the way.

This special cinema experience features 10 brand new episodes, six catchy new songs, and music videos that are perfect for singing and dancing along with your favourite piggy pals. Expect house renovations, car shopping, and plenty of heartfelt family fun.

“This is the perfect first cinema trip for little ones,” said Anwen Francis of the Torch Theatre marketing team. “We just adore Peppa Pig here at the Torch – she always brings smiles to faces young and old. We’re so excited to welcome families to enjoy her latest adventure.”

Screenings of Peppa Meets the Baby will take place at 12:30pm on Friday, 30 May; Saturday, 31 May; and Sunday, 1 June.

Ticket prices are: Family (4 people) – £24, Adults – £7.50, Concessions – £7, and Under 16s – £6.

For more information or to book, visit www.torchtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Entertainment

Milford Haven Business Circle to host fundraising gala in support of Founding Day

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Magical entertainment and community spirit set to take centre stage at Boulevard Theatre

THE MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE has announced a special Fundraising Gala Night in support of the town’s much-loved Founding Day celebrations.

The event will take place on Friday, 30th May 2025, at the Boulevard Theatre, Charles Street, starting from 7:00pm and running late into the evening.

Guests will be treated to an evening of light-hearted entertainment, headlined by a magical performance from Mellusion Magic, and compered by the ever-popular Drew Baker. The event will also include engaging speeches, a light table buffet included in the ticket price, and a charity auction offering a wide range of desirable items and experiences.

All proceeds from the evening will go towards covering the substantial costs of organising Milford Haven’s Founding Day—an annual event celebrating the town’s heritage, with staging costs in excess of £6,000. The celebration has become a highlight of the local calendar, drawing families, visitors, and residents together for a day of festivities, many of which are free or low-cost to ensure accessibility for all.

A spokesperson for the Business Circle said: “We’re incredibly excited to host this event at the beautiful Boulevard Theatre. It’s not only a fantastic evening of entertainment, but also a way for the whole community to support Founding Day—an occasion that means so much to Milford Haven. We encourage everyone to grab a ticket early and help make this year’s celebration our best yet.”

Tickets are £15 each, including buffet, and are available from several Charles Street businesses:

Phoenix Yarns
Taste of Haven
Ambulance Friends
Cast n Craft – Fishing for Health
Moon Goddess Emporium / Captured Soul Photography

Event summary:

What: Milford Haven Business Circle Fundraising Gala Night
When: Friday, 30th May 2025, 7:00pm until late
Where: The Boulevard Theatre, Charles Street, Milford Haven
Tickets: £15 (includes light buffet)
Featuring: Mellusion Magic, Drew Baker, speeches, auction, and more

The Milford Haven Business Circle is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting local economic growth and supporting community initiatives. Through events like the Gala Night, the group aims to strengthen connections between businesses and residents while helping fund important community celebrations.

Entertainment

Rhys Mwyn to present top Welsh acts at Llangollen International Eisteddfod

Published

2 days ago

May 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Special showcase ahead of KT Tunstall’s orchestral performance

BBC RADIO CYMRU presenter and Welsh music pioneer Rhys Mwyn will host a special showcase of three standout Welsh artists at this year’s Llangollen International Eisteddfod.

The outdoor event, “Rhys Mwyn yn Cyflwyno / Rhys Mwyn Presents”, takes place on Thursday 10 July from 4:30pm to 7:00pm and leads into the evening’s headline concert by BRIT Award-winning, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter KT Tunstall. Tunstall will perform her iconic debut album Eye to the Telescope in full with orchestral backing for the first time.

Rhys Mwyn will introduce performances by Pedair, Mared and Buddug – three trailblazing artists at the forefront of modern Welsh music.

Pedair is a supergroup formed by four of Wales’ most acclaimed folk artists, blending traditional roots with contemporary flair. Mared brings powerful vocals and poetic songwriting inspired by Welsh landscapes and culture, while Buddug offers a bold fusion of folk, pop and electronica, redefining the possibilities of Welsh-language music.

Rhys Mwyn said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to present such incredible Welsh talent at this year’s Eisteddfod. Pedair, Mared and Buddug are pushing creative boundaries and bringing new energy to the Welsh music scene. It’s an honour to be part of this landmark festival, which has always stood as a beacon of cultural celebration. I can’t wait to showcase these exceptional artists on what’s expected to be one of the festival’s biggest days.”

Morgan Thomas, trustee of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, added: “We’re delighted to partner with Rhys Mwyn and BBC Radio Cymru for this unique event. Rhys’s passion for Welsh music and commitment to nurturing talent is invaluable. This collaboration broadens our cultural offering and connects us to new audiences locally and internationally.”

The bilingual event celebrates Welsh culture, language and musical innovation. Entry is just £5, with free admission for those holding tickets to the KT Tunstall concert. Food and drink will be available on-site, making it the perfect pre-show experience.

Event details
What: Rhys Mwyn Presents – Pedair, Mared, Buddug
When: Thursday 10 July, 4:30pm–7:00pm
Where: Llangollen International Eisteddfod site
Tickets: £5 / Free with KT Tunstall concert ticket
Website: www.llangollen.net

Supported by BBC Radio Cymru, the Arts Council of Wales and Visit Wales, this promises to be an unforgettable celebration of contemporary Welsh music in the heart of one of the country’s most cherished festivals.