Community

Ryan Jones visits Pembrokeshire

Published

9 years ago

January 5, 2016

Ryan Jones ay Ysgol Preseli: Promoting the benefits of healthy eating

SPORTING legend Ryan Jones embarked on a tour of various venues around Pembrokeshire last week, with support from the team at Princes Gate Spring Water. The first stop for the retired Welsh International rugby union player, who is a Prices Gate Spring Water ambassador, was Ysgol Preseli. He met with a group of Welsh Baccalaureate pupils in an effort to promote healthy living. Princes Gate Spring Water is working with schools throughout Wales on the importance of hydration, healthy diets and staying active.

During the visit, pupils were invited to participate in a Q&A session with Ryan and representatives of the senior management team from Princes Gate Water, including Managing Director David Jones and Commercial Manager Samantha Atkinson. The session was an opportunity for the pupils to learn more about the various nuances of bottling spring water, manufacturing and distribution in general. The Q&A also gave the students the opportunity to ask Ryan questions about his sporting career. Next stop was Narberth CP school, and a 40 minute session with the Year 6 pupils. Pupils were engaged by talks from the panel on nutrition, hydration and physical fitness. The children were enthralled by Ryan’s inspirational talk on his drive towards professional rugby, and were no doubt inspired to follow suit.

They were then invited to take `selfies’ with the star, and delighted in doing so. Ryan and the team then visited Narberth RFC where Ryan once again took to the floor to present an inspirational talk to the children on how to realise their sporting ambitions, before a ‘Lads v Dads’ rugby match and a coaching session with the Under 11s. It was a remarkable experience for all involved. The final stop was a trip to The Plas in Narberth, where Ryan presented the Teenage Cancer Trust with a cheque on behalf of the Princes Gate Trust.

Talking about the visit, David Jones, owner of Princes Gate Spring Water, said: “We are sincerely humbled by all that Ryan continues to do – even in retirement – to inspire youngsters in Wales towards achieving their ambitions. He’s the most inspirational speaker I have encountered and at Princes Gate we are proud to call him our Ambassador – and friend. We look forward to continuing this awareness campaign throughout Wales in a bid to get our youth hydrated, eating more healthily and above all active!”

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

15 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

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

Published

24 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.