Entertainment

Britain’s 2025 slot boom: Why trusted slot review sites matter more than ever

Published

1 week ago

July 1, 2025

The UK is currently experiencing an all-time high in the number of people who play slots. In fact, according to the latest UKGC statistics for 2025, the gross gambling yield (GGY) for slots has increased by 11% to £689 million from the previous year.

However, with this significant increase comes confusion among slot fans about what and where to play. This is where slot review sites like JohnSlots.com come in to offer key insights into the latest trends in online slot gaming. And now, more than ever, these platforms prove their importance as they serve as guides to newbies, as we shall see in this write-up.

Why are more people playing slots in the UK?

You may be curious as to what drives the slot boom in the UK. Well, here’s your answer:

Fun themes and designs: Slots come in all sorts of fun themes based on movies, adventure, TV shows, fantasy etc. This makes the games more exciting and keeps players interested.

Increased demand: Online slots are very easy to play and offer a quick way to have fun. As such, many young adults want in, leading to an increase in demand for these games.

Easy accessibility: Almost everyone in the UK has a smartphone, which means better access to online casinos. And since most game providers make slots optimised for mobile play, fans can easily spin a few reels on the go.

More bonuses and promotions: Many online casinos offer free spins and welcome bonuses to lure more people into giving slots a try.

Chance to win big: Even with small bets, players have the chance to hit big jackpots, which entices many people to keep playing.

Why trusted slot review sites matter more than ever

Now for the heart of the matter. It is absolutely vital to understand the significance of review sites in the modern world, due to the following:

The demand for slots in the UK has led to an increase in the number of casino websites. And, as you may guess, not every one of them is a licensed and trustworthy operator, which is a disaster waiting to happen for bettors.

For this reason, review sites that are tried and tested prevent players from losing their money in online casinos that are shady and fake. They do the research and verify licenses, security, fairness of the games, payment options etc, so that the player does not have to risk anything. All that the player needs to do is read the reviews, which will identify reputable casino sites.

For testing games

Trusted review sites often test games to check the gameplay quality, fairness, design and bonus features. Only those that pass this rigorous test can enter the recommended list for players to have the best overall experience.

Additionally, players sometimes want to try out a slot game before spending real money. Maybe you’re curious about how the bonus round works or simply want to see if a particular game is fun to play. To make this possible, most review sites let you play free demos of popular slots.

By doing so, they give you a chance to test the game’s features, sounds and style without risking a single penny.

For honest reviews about slot gaming platforms

While slot review sites give you their own opinions after testing the game, they also provide real opinions from actual players. You’ll find ratings, comments and tips that help you figure out which slot games are worth your time.

To stay in the loop

The slot world changes fast, with new games, features and promos coming out all the time. Considering this, it can be difficult to keep track of it all, especially if you’re a casual player. But with review sites, you can remain updated so you don’t miss out on any new and trendy slot gaming content. Some sites even include blog posts or newsletters that break down the latest trends in simple terms.

Slot review sites offer expert analysis and recommendations

If you’re new to slots, it can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry; the best review sites break everything down for you in simple terms that you can understand. They also offer expert analysis on games and what they have to offer, so you don’t waste time and money on them.

How to spot a trusted slot review website in 2025

As the interest in online slots increases, so does the number of slot review sites out there. This raises the question of how to spot a trusted slot review site. To answer that, below are the things to look for:

Transparency and security: Trusted review websites offer user security and transparency, so any sign of shady reviews is a red flag.

Licensing: The best slot review sites report on casinos that have licenses and operate under reputable gambling companies.

Regular updates: Always check if the review site is up-to-date and see what other players have to say about the site.

Final words

Slot games might be fun and flashy, but you shouldn’t trust every casino behind them. That’s why in 2025, you should take advantage of online slot review sites to get a better idea of what you’re about to play.

Entertainment

Flu-like outbreak forces Eisteddfod cancellation amid public health scare

Published

1 day ago

July 9, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Emergency declared as festival-goers fall ill — site cleared to reopen Thursday

THE LLANGOLLEN International Musical Eisteddfod was forced to cancel its headline event on Wednesday evening (July 9) after a sudden outbreak of illness prompted the Welsh Ambulance Service to declare an extraordinary incident.

Multiple attendees fell ill with flu-like symptoms, leading to the cancellation of the evening concert — which was set to feature Sir Karl Jenkins conducting One World, his symphonic celebration of peace.

Festival organisers said the nature and scale of the incident meant it was the first time in the Eisteddfod’s history an event had been cancelled in this way.

A spokesperson confirmed: “Following Public Health Wales advice, the incident related to a flu-like outbreak and affected multiple people at one time. We take the safety of our audience, performers and volunteers extremely seriously.”

Medical teams on site were supported by the Welsh Ambulance Service, who confirmed the declaration of a public health incident due to the number of people affected simultaneously.

The festival had been running as normal throughout the day, with over 4,000 performers from 35 countries taking part in cultural performances, parades, and competitions.

Just hours before the cancellation, organisers had sent out a schedule for what was expected to be the busiest day of the event so far, celebrating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

Despite the disruption, organisers have now confirmed that the site has been declared safe to reopen on Thursday (10 July) from 9:00am.

“We are pleased to report our site has been cleared to reopen,” the Eisteddfod said in a further statement issued late Wednesday evening.

No further details have been released about the cause of the illness, but Public Health Wales is continuing to monitor the situation.

The Herald understands that stewards, medical staff and volunteers acted quickly and professionally to contain the incident and support those who were unwell.

Entertainment

Sunset Cinema returns for 2025 with open-air screenings across west Wales

Published

2 days ago

July 9, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Iconic castles and harbours set to host family favourites and Hollywood blockbusters

THE TORCH THEATRE has announced the return of its popular Sunset Cinema season for 2025, bringing open-air film screenings to some of the most scenic locations in west Wales. Held in association with Pure West Radio, this year’s line-up includes showings at Pembroke Castle, Saundersfoot Harbour and—for the first time—Cardigan Castle.

The season opens on Saturday, July 26 with Top Gun: Maverick at Saundersfoot Harbour. Over the following month, audiences will be treated to a mix of blockbusters and family classics, including Toy Story, Bohemian Rhapsody, The Lion King, Grease, and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, all shown on a state-of-the-art outdoor LED screen.

Artistic Director Chelsey Gillard said: “The Torch Theatre can’t wait to entertain audiences during the long, warm summer days and nights at some truly iconic locations across our beautiful county. From Saundersfoot Harbour to Pembroke Castle—and now Cardigan Castle too—what better venues to enjoy your favourite films under the stars or in the afternoon sun?”

A season of highlights

New for 2025, Cardigan Castle will host several screenings including Toy Story, Top Gun, The Lion King, Elvis and a special 18+ showing of Saturday Night Fever. Meanwhile, Pembroke Castle will close the season in magical style with Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets on Friday, August 29, followed by Wicked on Saturday, August 30.

Tŵr y Felin in St Davids also joins the line-up this year, screening Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl on Saturday, August 16.

Ms Gillard added: “We try not to let the Pembrokeshire weather affect our screenings—so even if it rains, the show will go on. Only in cases of extreme weather, like dangerously high winds, will we cancel. We advise everyone to dress for the conditions and check the forecast beforehand.”

Full schedule

26 July – Saundersfoot Harbour – Top Gun: Maverick (Gates 7:00pm, film 9:00pm)

1 August – Saundersfoot Harbour – Toy Story (Gates 2:30pm, film 4:00pm)

1 August – Saundersfoot Harbour – Bohemian Rhapsody (Gates 6:00pm, film 7:30pm)

7 August – Cardigan Castle – Toy Story (Gates 4:00pm, film 5:30pm)

7 August – Cardigan Castle – Top Gun (Gates 7:30pm, film 9:00pm)

8 August – Saundersfoot Harbour – Grease (Gates 7:00pm, film 9:00pm)

14 August – Cardigan Castle – The Lion King (Gates 4:00pm, film 5:30pm)

14 August – Cardigan Castle – Elvis (Gates 7:30pm, film 9:00pm)

15 August – Saundersfoot Harbour – Grown Ups (Gates 7:00pm, film 9:00pm)

16 August – Tŵr y Felin, St Davids – Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (Gates 7:00pm, film 9:00pm)

22 August – Saundersfoot Harbour – The Lion King (Gates 2:30pm, film 4:00pm)

22 August – Saundersfoot Harbour – Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (Gates 6:00pm, film 7:30pm)

23 August – Cardigan Castle – Saturday Night Fever (18) (Gates 7:30pm, film 9:00pm)

29 August – Pembroke Castle – Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Gates 6:00pm, film 7:30pm)

30 August – Pembroke Castle – Wicked (Gates 6:00pm, film 7:30pm)

Tickets are £12 in advance or £15 on the gate, available online at torchtheatre.co.uk or via the Box Office on 01646 695267. Further venue details and updates can be found on the website.

Entertainment

Solva Edge Festival to celebrate 10th anniversary this July

Published

5 days ago

July 6, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THOUSANDS expected for Pembrokeshire’s most spirited summer weekend

SOLVA Edge Festival returns from 25–27 July, promising a packed weekend of music, culture and coastal charm — and this year marks a major milestone as the community-run event celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Set in the heart of Solva with dramatic views over the Pembrokeshire coastline, the not-for-profit festival has grown into one of the most loved events in the West Wales summer calendar. Organisers say the 2025 event — dubbed “Edge X” — will be the most ambitious yet.

Headline acts include Dirty Weekend, Daft Punkz and Who’s Molly

This year’s musical line-up is led by high-energy favourites Dirty Weekend, dance-pop crowd-pleasers Daft Punkz, and the anthemic Who’s Molly. Festival regulars will also welcome the return of Good Times, while the coveted ‘legends slot’ will be filled by Fleetwood Mad, a tribute act drawing crowds across the UK for their faithful recreation of Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits.

Activities for all ages

In addition to the music, organisers have confirmed a broad range of activities. These include:

Children’s entertainment, from magicians to singalongs;
A literary reading of Erimos, a new work exploring myth and hope, with author Mark Lewis and illustrator Peter Stevenson;
Guided walks with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park team.

Festival-goers can also enjoy artisan stalls, henna tattoos, street food, and local ales at the popular Green Scar Bar.

A festival with heart

Solva Edge is unique in being run entirely by volunteers, with all proceeds returned to the community through grants and bursaries. Past beneficiaries include Solva AFC, St Davids Guides, Strength Academy Wales, Simpson’s Cross Activities Group, and Victoria Hall in Roch.

Organiser Luci Chapman said: “This is a special year for us — ten years of celebrating music, community and the coastline we love. Every ticket bought helps fund youth groups, sports clubs and creative projects across North Pembrokeshire.”