Community
Inspiring opportunities for football mad children
HUNDREDS of children and young people have been involved in a number of football development opportunities with a host of Premier League football clubs and the FAW Trust during February Half Term organised through PG10 who are affiliated to Premier League giants Everton FC and are an accredited UEFA fun football provider.
Players who attend PG10 Development Centres from across Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, Swansea, Pembrokeshire, Llanelli and far afield took part in a football development day at the home of Welsh football – the FAW Dragon Park Headquarters in Newport.
The children were able to use the world-class training, playing and education facilities used by the eight Welsh national teams.
Players were taken through their paces in technical sessions by top PG10 UEFA qualified coaches.
Part of the day was also used to educate the children about nutrition, how to lead a healthy lifestyle and how to prepare for games and train professionally.
During the week the children also experienced coaching opportunities with Premier league giants Arsenal FC and a tour of The Emirates Stadium where they visited Arsene Wenger’s dugout, went pitchside and had photo opportunities with the FA Cup and Community Shield.
Further development football matches took place against West Brom FC and Swindon FC.
Peter Griffiths of PG10 Coaching said: “The whole of February half term has been dedicated to developing local children football skills and to inspire them. The week was a great opportunity to promote Welsh football to the next generation and inspire the children to play for their country while also encouraging families and the next generation to support the national side in their 2016 European Championships qualifying matches. We all wish Chris Coleman and his team every success against Israel in March”
Peter added “We have more life changing opportunities for the children which will see them travel to the Spanish FA headquarters in Madrid linking in with Real Madrid FC and also to Bayern Munich meeting the 1st team and watching them train, as well as visiting the home of English football St George’s Park, again to aid player development.”
The next PG10 Soccer Camps are on the 7th 8th April with Manchester United FC which involves a stadium tour of old Trafford and educational workshops and sessions.
Charity
Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign
THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.
Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.
The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:
- Privates are private.
- Always remember your body belongs to you.
- No means no.
- Talk about secrets that upset you.
- Speak up; someone can help.
After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign
He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.
“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”
Community
Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match
A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.
Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.
The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.
Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.
Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.
For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.
Community
Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards
CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.
The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.
Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”
The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.
Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.
For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.
Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.
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