News

Campaign launched to fund Rhod’s Work Experience

Published

9 years ago

June 14, 2016

Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience in drag: An episode featuring Ceri Dupree at Milford Haven’s Pill Social Club

THE PRODUCTION company behind Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience, Zipline Creative, has kickstarted a campaign to fund the DVD release of the award winning show, with the help of the public.

The BAFTA award winning BBC TV series has been beamed into our homes since 2010, and sees Carmarthen comedian, Rhod Gilbert, take on many different job roles across Wales over the four series, including a drag queen in Milford Haven, and a reporter in Lampeter.

Although Rhod, along with Rhys and Nathan of Zipline Creative produced the shows, none of them have total control of the format. However, they have now reached a solid contractual agreement with the rights holder, which will allow them to use Kickstarter to raise the funds needed to release series 3 and 4 on DVD.

Aside from the rights fee, there’s a huge amount of costs associated with releasing Work Experience on DVD. Without the help of the fans, there is a good chance that Rhod Gilbert’s work Experience will never be available in any format.

Due to having such a loyal fan base, it is possible to be able to raise funds to pay for the DVD release, which they otherwise wouldn’t be able to do.

Series 3 and 4 contain four hours of “Rhod fun”, along with extras and deleted scenes. The episodes include Rhod as a Primary School Teacher, Zoo Keeper, Drag Queen, Police Officer, Wedding Planner, Scout Leader, Coach Tour Guide and a Male Model.

Thanks to the Kickstarter campaign, they are also able to cram in some extra funny bits that couldn’t be fit into the 30 minute TV shows.

So far, the campaign at www. kickstarter.com has 51 backers, with a total of £1,876 raised. Rhod is in complete support of the project, and although not directly involved has wished the boys luck with their campaign. To help it along,

Rhod has offered to sign a limited edition of Kickstarter DVDs to those who donate large amounts.

Speaking exclusively to The Herald, Rhod Gilbert said: “Rhys, Nathan and I have made all episodes of my work experience programme since the very first one on the bins in Barry. Series one and two are out on DVD, with loads of extras and interviews and stuff on them, but for boring reasons the other series haven’t been made available.

“So I am chuffed that the boys are now like little piggies trying to bring series three and four to market on DVD. If they manage to get enough support with the crowdfunding there’ll be DVDs with coach tour guide, scout leader, teacher, wedding planner and many more episodes on, plus loads of extras and deleted scenes from the two series.

“For those who invest, there’s loads of goodies, like signed DVDs, memorabilia and props from the series and private viewings with me. So I wish them all the best”

If the goal is reached, it is hoped the limited edition version will be with those who Pledged in September this year.

Rhys Waters, producer and director of the show, said: “We’re trusting in the support of our fan base to help us get them the DVD they’ve been craving all these years!

“It’s been frustrating because we’ve repeatedly had to tell eager fans ‘we don’t know’ whenever they ask us when they might be able to buy the DVD.”

“Kickstarter felt like the natural choice, as aside from working with the incredibly talented and funny Mr Gilbert, the one thing that’s always brilliant about Work Experience is it’s loyal fans. So we’re creating something that allows the fans to become part of the show.”

He added: “We can offer a lot more than just a copy of the programmes, they’ll have their names on the credits, DVD’s and posters signed by Rhod, alongside some genuine props and costumes.”

Some of the goodies that the team hope to offer backers include:

Special Kickstarter limited edition design DVD Box sets of series 3&4 with Bonus features SIGNED BY RHOD.
An invite to the exclusive screening of 4 selected episodes of Work Experience.
Rhod / Rachel’s Wig from the ‘Drag Artist’ Episode.
The original Give a S#!t Weddings T-Shirt from the Wedding Planner Episode.
Give a S#!t Weddings Car Signage from the Wedding Planner Episode.
Rhod’s ‘finger gym’ from the Male Model episode.
Rhod’s ‘Rhod Squad Scout’s Camp Badge’ from the Scout Leader episode.
One of Rhod’s ‘Edwards Coaches Ties’ from the Coach Tour Guide Episode.
A Rhod Signed original limited edition promotional poster for the series.
Limited edition collage wall art piece featuring all Patrick Olner’s amazing photographs commissioned for Series 3 & 4

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

5 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

13 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

28 mins ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards

Information on Social Bite’s Festival can be found: https://www.social-bite.co.uk/