News

AM welcomes moves to encourage foreign investment

Published

11 years ago

January 23, 2014

REBECCA EVANS AM, Mid and West Wales Assembly Member, has welcomed a new initiative from the Welsh Government to attract foreign investors to Wales.

The new initiative encourages potential investors to “Just Ask Wales” when considering their investment opportunities and comes on the back of impressive figures for 2012/13.

The number of inward investment projects attracted to Wales in 2012/13 increased by 191%, while the number of jobs created and safeguarded in Wales increased by almost 100%.

Welcoming the campaign, Mrs Evans said:

“With global economy continuing to struggle, it is refreshing to see such strong figures for inward investment in Wales from the Welsh Labour Government. I am pleased to see that the Welsh Government is not resting on its laurels and is continuing to seek new ways in which to attract further inward investment and jobs.

“Inward investment is an important catalyst for jobs and growth in Wales – as is supporting and encouraging the development of our home-grown enterprises.”

The new marketing campaign is part of the Welsh Government drive to attract more foreign-owned companies looking to grow and expand to consider a future in Wales.

The year-long campaign will initially focus on London, South East England, and the M4 corridor. It will include advertising at central London Underground stations, as well as rail stations at Paddington, Liverpool Street, Heathrow, Woking, Slough, Reading and Bracknell.

A suite of sector-specific posters and marketing materials have been created for the “Just Ask Wales” campaign, directing businesses to the new justask.wales.com website. The campaign reinforces and compliments existing sector marketing activities. Advertising will also appear in newspapers such as the Financial Times, Telegraph and London Standard.

Launching the campaign, Minister for Economy Edwina Hart said: “The foreign direct investment market is extremely competitive so in order to build on our successes and gain a competitive advantage, we have to differentiate what Wales has to offer.

“Our “Just Ask Wales” campaign emphasises our strengths and focusses on customer requirements – what companies need in order to grow and how we can deliver for them. We are launching it in the South East of England as our proximity to London is a major advantage for many businesses.

“Among the other key elements we are highlighting are the skills, support, space and speed of decision making in Wales – as well as the number of highly successful companies already based here that have benefited from Welsh Government support.

“We have a clear, coherent and consistent message running across the campaign based on our ability to deliver, our ambition to attract trade and investment to Wales and the can-do attitude of the workforce and Government.”

The integrated marketing and communications campaign will run alongside the programme to develop international trade which supports businesses to access overseas markets. It includes traditional paid-for print, poster sites, digital activity, email, and will be supported by sector specific business and media events in London and Cardiff at dates to be announced.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”